بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
The king of rome purposely designed a door very short so that everyone who enters would bow down to him, but Imām Abū Bakr al-Bāqillānī (رحمه الله) humiliates the roman king:
The king of rome purposely designed a door very short so that everyone who enters would bow down to him, but Imām Abū Bakr al-Bāqillānī (رحمه الله) humiliates the roman king:
Question
Du’as are accepted on a Wednesday from between Dhuhr to ‘Asr. Is this correct?
Answer
This is based on the following Hadith:
Sayyiduna Jabir (radiyallahu’anhu) reports that:
‘Rasulullah (sallallahu ’alayhi wasallam) had made du’a to Allah in Masjidul Fath (in Madinah) on a Monday, a Tuesday and a Wednesday. His du’a was accepted between Dhuhr and ‘Asr on the Wednesday.’ Sayyiduna Jabir (radiyallahu’anhu)says: ‘Whenever I had a need, I waited for that moment on a Wednesday and made du’a. Every time I did so, I noticed my du’a being accepted.’
(Al-Adabul Mufrad of Imam Bukhari, Hadith: 725, Musnad Ahmad, vol.3 pg. 332 and Musnad Bazzar; Kashful Astar, Hadith: 431)
‘Allamah Mundhiri (rahimahullah) has declared the chain of Musnad Ahmad as good (jayyid) (Targhib, Hadith: 1788. Also see Majma’uz Zawaid, vol.4 pg.12)
Moulana ‘Abdul Hayy Laknawi (rahimahullah) has stated that ‘Allamah Suyuti graded the narrators of this Hadith as good (jayyid) in his book: ‘Sihamul Isabah’ and Shaykh Samhudi (rahimahullah) -in Wafaul Wafa- declared the narrators in Musnad Ahmad as reliable. (Al-Fawaidul Bahiyyah, pg.185-186)
Benefit of starting the lesson of a book of Islamic study on a Wednesday
Question
Are there any Hadiths regarding the virtue of beginning things (such as a book) on the day of Wednesday. If so can you mention the Hadith, along with its authentication and reference?
Answer
To commence a book of knowledge on a Wednesday has been the practice of the scholars for centuries.
The Author of Al-Hidayah, the Hanafi fiqh masterpiece would also do so, and he would quote a Hadith to support it.
(Al-Fawaidul Bahiyyah, pg.32 and 185. Also see Al-Maqasidul Hasanah, Hadith: 943)
Although the latter day Muhaddithun could not locate the chain for this specific narration, this practice is still substantiated by other Hadiths whose broader meaning do lend it support.
1. The Gem of the last century, Shaykh ‘Abdul Hay Al-Laknawi (rahimahullah) has written the following:
‘I have managed to deduce a basis for this from the Hadith recorded in Bukhari’s Al-Adabul Mufrad and in Musnad Ahmad and Musnad Bazzar from Jabir (radiyallahu’anhu) who said:
‘Rasulullah (sallallahu’alayhi wasallam) had made du’a to Allah in Masjidul Fath (in Madinah) on a Monday, a Tuesday and a Wednesday. His du’a was accepted between Zuhr and ‘Asr on the Wednesday. Sayyiduna Jabir says: ‘ Whenever I had a need, I waited for that moment on a Wednesday and made du’a. Every time I did so, I noticed my du’a being accepted.’
‘Allamah Suyuti graded the narrators of this Hadith as good (jayyid) in his book: ‘Sihamul Isabah’
Shaykh Samhudi (rahimahullah) -in Wafaul Wafa- declared the narrators in Musnad Ahmad as reliable.
This Hadith points to the fact that on Wednesdays, there is a moment in which du’as are accepted. Therefore they (the Scholars) liked to commence their lessons on this day.
Since those who commence any task, generally make du’a for its easy and speedy completion, their du’as will be accepted on this day and their tasks shall be completed.’
(end of quote from Shaykh Laknawi’s (rahimahullah) book: Al-Fawaidul Bahiyyah, pg.185-186)
2. Shaykh Laknawi (rahimahullah) then cites further substantiation for this practice from Shaykh Ibn ‘Arraq Al-Kinani (rahimahullah), the author of Tanzihush Shari’ah. The summary of which is:
The Sahih Hadith (in Muslim) states that Allah Ta’ala created divine light (nur) on Wednesday, and knowledge is also termed as nur, It is therefore suitable to start our acquisition of this nur on the same day. Especially since Allah Ta’ala says: ‘…and Allah will definitely complete his nur’ (Surah Tawbah, Ayah: 32)
Conclusion
Commencing Islamic study on a Wednesday indeed has support from the Hadith and the constant practice of the ‘Ulama throughout the centuries, and is therefore recommended.
However, this does not forbid commencing the lesson on another day.
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar
“Be fearful of a day when you shall be returned to Allah, then every person shall be paid in full what he has earned, and they shall not be wronged.” Surah Baqarah
(This is the last verse to be revealed in the Qur’an)
The passing away of our most beloved and honourable Shaykh and Ustadh, the Ameer, the Master, the embodiment of Hadith, Shaykhul Hadith Hadhrat Mawlana Muhammad Yunus Saheb Jawnpuri (Allah sanctify his secret), was most definitely news that shook our hearts, rather shook mountains. Initially, I did not think it was befitting for me to write anything on Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret), as many of my senior teachers and Ulama had already done so. But after reading them, a few anecdotes and memories came to mind so I decided to share them based on the Hadith:
Ibn Umar (Allah be pleased with him narrated that: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: “Mention good things about your dead, and refrain from (mentioning) their evil.” (Tirmidhi)
Alhumdu Lillah, in 2007 my late father sent me to Mazahirul Uloom, Sahanrapur in the khidmah of Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret), as he felt it was good for an Alim to be in the company of a Shaykh after graduation for Islah and Tarbiyyah purposes. I had met Shaykh Saheb when he would come to Jamiatul Ilm Walhuda, Blackburn, for the Bukhari Jalsa and had heard many stories of his status and nature from my Ustadhs – many of which had studied under Shaykh Saheb’s tutelage.
When I first arrived, I introduced myself and passed on some money and gifts I had from our principal and ustadh Mufti AbdusSamad Saheb and Mufti Shabbir Saheb, as well as some of Shaykh Saheb’s previous students. I told him my father had sent me for his Khidmah and I was studying Ifta alongside this. I remember he asked me, if I was his guest (mehman) or a guest of the Darul Uloom. I said, “I am currently staying in the Mehman Khana until my room is arranged, so I shall eat from the Madrasah.” He said, “Very well! Otherwise I would arrange food for you.” To which I was quite overwhelmed and humbled, at Shaykh Saheb’s worry and concern.
In my first few days I imagined there would be dozens of people at his service and I would barely get a chance. As this was the case when he came to the UK, scores of Ulama from up and down the country would be following him “throughout” his stay in the UK. Things were quite different in India. Generally, it was some of the Bukhari/Ifta students that would do his Khidmah, but a very small amount. As they were in fear of being rebuked and told off. There were many days Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret) would be alone or just one Khadim with him. I remember telling some of my Ifta colleagues, actually forcing them to come with me and sit with Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret) for a while. They were very apprehensive. But I realised the cause behind this, it was what they were fed about Shaykh Saheb’s (Allah sanctify his secret) nature. Without doubt Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret) was a person whose nature left you full of awe, he was “Jalali.” So generally, students were afraid of being told off and criticised. Shaykh Saheb would rebuke us. But he would always say, “I only discipline those with whom I have a connection, the person is fortunate who builds humility after I have disciplined him.”
I would like to mention a point here for ulama, we should never think of ourselves too high that we cannot be criticised. Fudhayl ibn Iyadh (Allah have mercy upon him) once said, “Accept the truth, even if it is from a child.”
I remember Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret) would start the day off with Surah Yaseen and also read Qur’an after Dhuhr Salah. He would say, “I like to start the day off with Qur’an.” There was a particular Durood he would read after recitation of the Qur’an, I tried to pick up the words as Shaykh Saheb would whisper it quite loud. I only ever heard, “Allahumma Salle Alaa Muhammad bi Addadi Kulli Harf…” (O Allah! Send salutations upon Muhammad equal to every letter I have read from the Quran). If anyone knows the full Durood, I would be grateful if they could share it In Sha Allah.
I was once told to fetch some water by Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret), I knew in India they did not drink from the tap like we do in UK. But as it was my first few weeks, I was unaware where Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret) drank from. Usually, people stored their water in a clay pot (matka) or something similar. So, I was running around in the kitchen and in the bedroom looking for his water storage. I ended up downstairs and I saw a student pumping water out from the Madrasah pump and I told him, Shaykh Saheb has asked for water. He said, Shaykh Saheb doesn’t drink this water and he only drinks Zam Zam. Subhan Allah! He rushed me back to the room and under the bed were drums of Zam Zam. I was grateful to him for sharing this with me as I didn’t want to feed Shaykh Saheb with normal water, when he only drank Zam Zam.
Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret) did not like pretence and deception. Once a few students were sat and one of the students had a white scarf/shaal, like the ones we see in Saudi Arabia worn by their Imams. This student was sat in front of Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret) whilst Shaykh Saheb was doing Dhikr. All of a sudden, Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret) got really angry and said, “Oh! It’s only you… I thought you were a big Alim, the way you are dressed.” He ordered him to remove it and told us always to dress humbly.
Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret) would cry at times, when putting on Itr before his dars. He would say, “These bottles are worth thousands of Rupees each. But when I was young I didn’t have enough money for food. Dear children, I went through a lot of poverty.” Tears would roll from his eyes, rahimahullah.
Further he would say many times, his father was a teacher and as a boy Shaykh Saheb was quite weak mentally and physically. He would always remain ill. A man suggested to his father, “Get him on the (cycle) rickshaws, as he will be of no use to you when he grows up. At least this way he will bring money in!” “Alhumdu Lillah! When I sit on the (cycle) rickshaws, the thought crosses my mind. It could have been the other way round!” Shaykh Saheb would say very emotionally.
“That is Allah’s grace which He bestows on whom He wills, He is the Owner of Mighty Grace.” (62:4)
NB: In Saharanpur there was little use of the motor rickshaws, a man would sit at the front and peddle. Passengers would sit at the back in a carriage. I don’t know if things have advanced.
Here I would like to clarify something which I heard from many students and teachers at my time in Saharanpur, that Shaykh Saheb was diagnosed with Tuberculosis at a young age. And TB was such in those days, if you caught it, chances were that you would die imminently. As a result of this Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret) did not marry, due to fear of death occurring at any time. But time went by, he graduated as an Alim and even started teaching. He was always on edge, that he could go any minute. Like this he passed his whole youth, but one night he saw the number 5 in a dream (whether it was the figure 5 or a hand indicating 5 I cannot remember). This really confused Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret). He thought, “Maybe it means 5 days or 5 months, I have left to live!” Later, when Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret) started teaching and came across the ‘maghaib khamsah’, the knowledge of five things which only Allah SWT knows. He understood the interpretation of the dream, which meant stop worrying about your death, only He SWT knows when you will die. The five things being, “Qiyamah, rainfall, what is in the womb – male/female, what a person earns – rizq, when a person will die.” (Surah Luqman)
This does not defy the fact that Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret) had immense love for knowledge and his books, it would even be correct to say he was married to his books.
A similar incident is related regarding Imam Malik (Allah have mercy upon him) and the dream of the number 5.
Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret) was connected to Ulama all over the UK and all over the world, he would often get calls of halaat/circumstances in certain countries. Especially, internal conflicts. As he knew I was from UK he once said, “When you return to the UK never get involved with Ikhtilaf/politics, as this is increasing in England.”
Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret) was very wary when he was eating, with regards to evil eye (nazar). More often than not, he would prefer to eat alone and not in the sight of students or even guests from outside.
I remember asking Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret) a few questions that had always been on my mind. The first was the Sunnah method of clipping the nails, as many books show a method which they refer to as Sunnah. He replied, “This is not in Hadith, but rather we begin from the right hand as this is preferable in all matters. Secondly, we begin from the Shahadah finger (index) as it is good to start with this finger.” I also asked about walking forty steps after food, He said, “This is only recommended by Hakims, it is not Sunnah.”
Approximately, half a million people attended Shaykh Saheb’s Janazah Salah:
Aishah (Allah be pleased with her) said: “The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, ‘If a Muslim dies and his funeral prayer is attended by a group of a hundred Muslims, and they all sincerely pray for his forgiveness, he is forgiven’”. (Ahmad, Muslim, and Tirmidhi)
Lastly, when Shaykh Saheb (Allah sanctify his secret) came to Jamiatul Ilm Walhuda in May 2017 for the Bukhari ceremony, towards the end I remember him saying, “O children! It is possible that I do not return next year.” And such was Allah’s wish…
“The Eyes Tear,
The Heart is in Pain,
But (with my tongue) I will only say that which is pleasing to Allah,
And we are indeed sad at your departure. ”
(Bukhari)
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) on the death of his son Ibraheem (Allah be pleased with him)
May Allah SWT elevate the status of Shaykh Saheb and Allah reward him on behalf of the whole Ummah and may his legacy remain in this world until the day of Qiyamah and Allah SWT grant us all the tawfeeq to follow in the footsteps of all the pious personalities and He resurrects us amongst them on the day of Qiyamah and He grant us a place in Jannah with such luminaries and pious Mashayikh… Ameen!
One request, please make Esaal-e-Thawab for Hadhrat of whatever you are able to and as much as you can; Qur’an, Dua, or Sadaqah. (I am hoping to build a Masjid in Shaykh’s name – please see link below and kindly donate).
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ismail-satia1
Ismail ibn Nazir Satia (One who is in dire need of Allah’s forgiveness, mercy and pleasure).
26th Dhul Qa’dah 1438
By Hadhrat Mawlana Muhammad Saleem Dhorat Saheb (hafidhahullah)
Sayyidunā Suwayd ibn Ghafalah radhiyallāhu ‘anhu narrates that when Sayyidunā ‘Alī radhiyallāhu ‘anhu was suffering extreme hunger one day, he suggested to (his wife) Sayyidah Fātimah radhiyallāhu ‘anhā to approach (her father) Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam for some food. When she went to Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam, Sayyidah Ummu Ayman radhiyallāhu ‘anhā happened to be there. Hearing Sayyidah Fātimah knocking on the door, Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam said, “That is the knock of Fātimah. She has come at a time that we are not accustomed to having her come to us.”
“O Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam!” Sayyidah Fātimah radhiyallāhu ‘anhā said, “The food of the angels is to recite Lā Ilāha Illallāh, Subhānallāh and Alhamdulillāh. What is our food?”
Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam replied. “I swear by the Being Who has sent me with the truth! For the last thirty days, no fire (to cook) has been lit in the house of the family of Muhammad. However, a few goats have come to us. If you please, I shall have five given to you. Alternatively, if you so please, I shall teach you five words (of supplication) that Jibra’īl ‘alayhis salām has taught me.”
Sayyidah Fātimah radhiyallāhu ‘anhā immediately said, “Do rather teach me the five words that Jibra’īl ‘alayhis salām has taught you.” Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam then told her to say the following words:
Sayyidah Fātimah radhiyallāhu ‘anhā then left. When she came back to Sayyidunā ‘Alī radhiyallāhu ‘anhu, he asked, “What happened?” She replied, “While I left you to get something of benefit in this world, I returned with something of benefit in the Ākhirah.” “This is the best of all your days,” remarked Sayyidunā ‘Alī radhiyallāhu ‘anhu. (At-Tabarānī)
Building Stamina
Right from the onset of the month of Rajab, we should begin to prepare for Ramadhān. By building up slowly over Rajab and Sha’bān, we will be in peak spiritual condition when Ramadhān arrives.
To do this we need to make a programme of ‘ibādah and set daily targets. We then need to fix a timetable so that we are able to achieve those targets. Thereafter, targets should be reviewed every week or every fortnight, and gradually increased until Ramadhān arrives. Then throughout Ramadhān this process should continue.
If we do not set targets and do not fix a timetable early on, we will not be able to progress. Consequently, we will not develop the necessary spiritual stamina required to maintain the level of performance in order to reap the maximum benefit from Ramadhān.
Memorable Ramadhan
Make this Ramadhān a memorable one. Make it a Ramadhān you will remember for the rest of your life. Make it such that, inshā’allāh, in Jannah you will say it was this Ramadhān from when my life changed forever and in which Allāh ta’ālā made me His walī (special friend).
To make this Ramadhān a memorable one, abstain from disobeying Allāh Our Creator. Do not even think about disobeying Allāh ta’ālā throughout the blessed month.
In order to safeguard yourself from disobeying Allāh ta’ālā; avoid gatherings and mixing with people as many sins such as backbiting and slandering take place when one mixes with people.
Safeguard your tongue by only saying what is good and rewarding. Always think before you speak.
Safeguard your ears and eyes from those things which are disliked by Allāh ta’ālā.
Virtues of Ramadhan
As soon as the month of Rajab begins we should commence daily readings from the book “Virtues of Ramadhān” by Shaykh-ul-Hadīth, Hadhrat Mawlānā Muhammad Zakariyyā rahimahullāh. We should motivate ourselves, allocate time and sit daily with the family and read this book collectively throughout Rajab.
Shaykh-ul-Hadīth Mawlānā Muhammad Zakariyyā rahimahullāh was a saintly person and his words have an amazing effect on the heart which will help us spiritually prepare for the blessed month and also benefit from it.
A Golden Opportunity to Become a Muttaqī
By Hadrat Mawlānā Muhammad Saleem Dhorat hafizahullāh
Events and occasions give us an opportunity to track the passing of time; otherwise days, months and years would pass by without us realising. Whenever we look towards the future, it seems very distant; however, upon reflection over the past we realise how quickly time has elapsed. To understand the longevity of our future we have to evaluate it on our experience of the past.
As usual, the current Ramadān will also feel very long and the end will seem a long way away, but the reality of these days can be understood by the many Ramadāns we have experienced in the past; how short they were and how quickly they passed, and how after each Ramadān we felt that if only there were a few more days so that some beneficial action could be carried out. In order to save ourselves from such regret once again, it is of the utmost importance that we realise the great opportunity Ramadān is offering us and make the most of it.
The Objective of Ramadān
First and foremost we need to understand that Allāh ta‘ālā has granted us this great gift of Ramadān so that we may become muttaqīn – the people of taqwā.
Allāh ta‘ālā states:
O you who believe, the fasts have been enjoined upon you as they were enjoined upon those before you, so that you may become people of taqwā. [2:183]
My late Shaykh, Hadrat Hājī Fārūq rahimahullāh taught me the following supplication:O Allāh! You have given us this month so that we become people of taqwā; so make us from the people of taqwā.
What is Taqwā?
Now, the question arises what is taqwā? Once ‘Umar radhiyallāhu ‘anhu asked Ka‘b Al-Ahbār radhiyallāhu ‘anhu the meaning of taqwā. In reply, Ka‘b radhiyallāhu ‘anhu, asked ‘Umar radhiyallāhu ‘anhu if he had ever walked on a thorny path and if yes how he had passed through it. ‘Umar radhiyallāhu ‘anhu explained that he gathered his clothes and ensured that his clothes didn’t get caught by the thorns. Ka‘b radhiyallāhu ‘anhu said, “That is taqwā.” The explanation of Ka‘b’s statement is that we too should pass through this world very carefully, ensuring we do not fall prey to nafs and Shaytān and commit a sin; be it minor or major.
Taqwā is a nūr (light) which enlightens and spiritually strengthens the heart to such an extent that the person finds a natural dislike for sinful activities. This becomes a barrier between him and the disobedience to Allāh ta‘ālā. This nūr of taqwā is acquired by forcing oneself to carry out the commands of Allāh ta‘ālā and stay away from His disobedience no matter what sacrifice one has to give. This sacrifice is called mujāhadah, and every time this is carried out a special nūr is created in the heart. The more the obedience the stronger the nūr, until eventually the heart is enlightened to such an extent that it will not tolerate the filth of any sin.
The similitude of this can be likened to a person who abhors dirt. If he needs to walk through a dirty path way, he will have a natural aversion for the dirt and will instinctively gather his clothes to ensure his clothes don’t get soiled. Similarly, once the heart has become filled with the nūr of taqwā, it will abhor sinful activities and places of evil and will develop an aversion to them, leading one to automatically safeguard himself.
On the other hand when a person disobeys Allāh ta‘ālā, the nūr of taqwā in the heart diminishes. The more sins a person commits, the more darkness engulfs the heart until a point comes when the heart becomes inclined towards disbelief. This very fact has been narrated in a hadīth of Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam.
Virtues of Taqwā
We can understand from the above that taqwā is one of the greatest favours Allāh ta‘ālā has granted us as it guarantees us success of both worlds. Allāh ta‘ālā states:
Whoever fears the disobedience to Allāh, Allāh will create for him a way out (from difficulties), and provide him (with whatever he needs) from where he does not even imagine. [65:3]
And whoever fears the disobedience to Allāh, Allāh will bring about ease for him in his affair. [65:6]
Race with one another towards Forgiveness from your Lord and towards a Paradise the width of which spans the heavens and the earth. It has been prepared for the Muttaqīn. [3:133]
Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam has stated:
Verily the closest to me from the people are the Muttaqīn; wherever they may be and whoever they may be. (Ahmad)
Allāh ta‘ālā through His mercy, love and kindness has granted us this month of Ramadān which is full of blessings making it easy for us to carry out the commands of Allāh plus other spiritual deeds.
Ramadān and Taqwā
From the ahādīth and verses of the Qur’ān we can list some of the special blessings and virtues of Ramadān.
1. This is the month in which the Qur’ān was revealed.
2. This is the month in which the doors of Jannah are opened and the doors of Jahannam are closed.
3. The shayātīn are chained.
4. There is a night in this month which is better than a thousand months.
5. Allāh ta‘ālā calls out: ‘O desirer of good hasten forward and O the searcher of evil, stop.’
6. Allāh emancipates people from Jahannam in thousands.
7. The first ten days of this month are of mercy, the middle ten days are of forgiveness and the last ten days are for emancipating servants from Jahannam.
8. Allāh ta‘ālā readily accepts du‘ā in this month.
Allāh through His kindness has granted us these great blessings which boosts our efforts towards the path of taqwā. Let us therefore value this blessed month and resolve to carry out the following:
1. Taqwā and tawbah: Carry out all the commands of Allāh and abstain from all disobedience. Sincerely repent and seek forgiveness for all past negligence with a firm resolution never to return to it again.
2. Tilāwah: The month of Ramadān has a strong connection with the Qur’ān. Allāh ta‘ālā states:
The month of Ramadān is the one in which the Qur’ān was revealed as guidance for mankind, and as clear signs that show the right way and distinguish between right and wrong…[2:185]
Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam would revise the Qur’ān with Jibra’īl ‘alayhis salām during this month. The pious people gave much importance to reciting the Qur’ān in this month. The following few examples will suffice to make us realise how much effort we should exert.
• Imām Abū Hanīfah rahimahullāh would recite one Qur’ān in the day and one Qur’ān in the night daily.
• Imām Shāfi‘ī rahimahullāh would recite one Qur’ān in the day and one at night daily in salāh.
• Imām Bukhārī rahimahullāh would recite forty one Qur’āns during the month of Ramadān.
• Hadrat Shaykh, Mawlānā Muhammad Zakariyyā rahimahullāh would recite one Qur’ān daily.
3. Abundance of Kalimah Tayyibah and Istighfār: In one hadith, Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam has directed us towards four things we should do in abundance during the blessed month: recitation of Kalimah Tayyibah, asking for forgiveness, asking for Jannah and seeking refuge from Jahannam. My late father taught me a du‘ā to be read in Ramadān when I was a child:
Lā ilāha illallāh, astaghfirullāh, as’alukal jannah, wa a’ūdhubika minannār.
There is no diety except Allāh, I seek forgiveness from Allāh, I ask from You (O Allāh) Jannah, and I seek Your refuge from the fire.
It was only when I grew up and became a student of Dīn that I realised that this simple formula of du‘a was actually a way of practicing upon the instruction of Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam.
4. Du‘ā: There is much significance of making du‘ā in the month of Ramadān. Allāh ta‘ālā has discussed du‘ā in between discussing the rulings related to fasting in the month of Ramadān.
When My servants ask you about Me, then (tell them that) I am near. I respond to the call of one when he prays to Me. [2:186]
In the hadīth of Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam we find that du‘ā at the time of iftār is readily accepted. Similarly, at the time of suhūr du‘ās are readily accepted. We find in the hadith of Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam that Allāh ta‘ālā descends in the last portion of the night and calls out to His servants saying,
‘Is there anyone who will make du‘ā to Me so that I may accept it? Is there anyone who will ask of Me so that I may fulfil his request? Is there anyone who will ask My forgiveness so that I may forgive him. (Al-Bukhārī)
5. Spending in the Path of Allāh ta‘ālā: The month of Ramadān is also a month of charity. It is narrated that the generosity of Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam would increase in this month. Spending in the path of Allāh ta‘ālā holds much virtue; just giving someone a sip of water or a mere date grants a person the reward of the fasting person. Therefore, one should make an effort to spend as much as possible. Zakāt is to be given on its appointed time whether in Ramadān or outside of Ramadān. The important matter is that one should try and endeavour to spend in charitable causes as much as possible. It should also be noted that when spending in the Path of Allāh ta‘ālā, a person should endeavour to find the most fruitful places for his Hereafter. A person should not give away his charity to the first person who knocks at his door; rather one should make an effort to spend in the most opportune of places. It should be remembered that spending is our need and not the need of the recipient; it is we who are in need of the reward of charity and therefore it should be our effort to find places to spend.
6. I‘tikāf: A special significance is given to i‘tikāf in the month of Ramadān. The fuqahā have stipulated that i‘tikāf of the last ten days in the month of Ramadān is Sunnah muakkadah ‘alal-kifāyah. Hence, if the people of a locality leave this sunnah then the whole locality will be liable. Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam carried out i‘tikāf in the last ten days of Ramadān throughout his life to the extent that he performed i‘tikāf of twenty days in the Ramadān before his demise. This was to compensate the i‘tikāf missed the previous year due to a reason and also to increase his devotion before departing from this world. I‘tikāf will go a long way in establishing taqwā and connecting one to Allāh ta‘ālā.
7. Remembering Allāh ta‘ālā and doing good: Spend time in doing good as much as possible. Whilst standing, sitting and lying down – in every circumstance, keep the tongue moist with the remembrance of Allāh ta‘ālā.
My dear readers! Occupy yourself in doing good and value every moment of this blessed month. Life is very short and this golden opportunity of Ramadān will very quickly slip away. If we pay heed then Inshā’allāh this Ramadān will become a golden Ramadān for us in which we will become people of taqwā, thus acquiring success in both worlds. May Allāh ta‘ālā grant us the tawfīq. Āmīn.
© Riyādul Jannah
Part II – In Defence of Rasul Ullah (Sal Allahu Alayhi Wasallam)
اللَّهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلى سَيِّدِنَا وَنَبِيِّنَا وَ شَفِيْعِنَا وَحَبِيْبِنَا وَ سَنَدِنَا وَ مَوْلَانَا مُحَمَّدٍ وَ بَارِكْ وَ سَلِّم
“Fear not! O Muhammad”, she said. “In your Lord, we trust and must not despair,
You join ties with relatives, ease people’s burdens and treat your guests with utmost care”.
Your mission had now started; Islam was universal, for one and all,
The task was not an easy one, due to the opposition, very few listened and heeded the call.
The very first believers were keen and true,
Khadeejah (RA), Abu Bakr (RA), Zaid (RA) and Ali (RA) – your father’s nephew.
But the call to One God was not happily welcomed or could be seen,
Abu Talib was told, “Tell Muhammad to renounce his deen”.
If they were to put the sun in your right hand and the moon in your left you wouldn’t have given up,
Whether it meant you were tortured, beaten or accused of being corrupt.
It was such a shame; they titled you as a magician and poet instead of your beloved name,
“He’s a soothsayer”, did they claim. For causing disunity, only you did they blame.
You taught the purpose of life; life is not a game,
“I call you to One God; like all Messengers, without any wage nor fame”.
After ten years of Prophethood, you lost two companions, loyal and faithful,
They would always be joint at your hip; the first was your uncle Abu Talib,
Then Khadeejah (RA) your wife, who would have for you, even sacrificed her life.
Then, one dark night angel Jib’reel descended.
He took you on a long journey which was blessed and splendid.
From the sacred house in Makkah all the way to Jerusalem, then to the seven heavens and high above,
You travelled on al-Buraq with speed, flying high like a dove.
The very same night you returned home, safe, to Makkah,
With a gift from your Lord, to the believers, it was the Salah.
Now the time came to migrate to Madinah,
And it wasn’t long before the first battle, Badr, took place in the 2nd year of Hijrah.
The enemy was strong, 1000 men fully equipped to their teeth,
The Muslims were less, actually very few, but they were neither disheartened nor felt blue.
This was a lesson, in history, to be recorded,
Even if you are few but sincerely true, Allah’s help arrives and you will be rewarded.
The help of Allah came, and flocks of angels over the blue skies flew,
Supporting the believers, who were devoted and close to you.
Although ill-equipped, weak and poor, Muslims were granted victory,
This was a day celebrated and remembered in history.
If the believers obey you, O Muhammad SAW they will be triumphant,
As they were on the Day of Badr, cheerful and jubilant.
Contrarily, to the results seen, if your orders are not adhered with respect,
Like we saw in Uhud when some Companions (RA) did show sign of neglect,
You reprimanded them gently and told them this was incorrect.
It was here you lost your Uncle Hamza (RA), who was killed in retaliation,
The dhulm his body went through was harsh, such torture, such mutilation.
As time went by people began to see,
The grandeur of Islam, the brotherhood and unity.
Do they not know the story of Bilal (RA), a black, African slave, but oh, what he became…
A brother of the Arabs, treated equally, one and the same.
Do they not see how the radiant moon, with just a slight gesture,
Split in two, by your blessed index finger.
The stone and trees bear witness unto you,
But the hearts that turned hard, failed to recognise your message, saying this is a talk strange and new.
When lands are conquered; women are oppressed, and men are fought,
But on the conquest of Makkah – no killing was seen, no revenge was sought.
Throughout your moral life, you gave rights to humans, jinns and animals,
You taught respect for the environment and said be considerate to all, even the angels.
At Taif you were pelted, your blessed body was bruised as you bled,
Young children were ordered to throw stones at you, then they quickly fled.
It was the angel’s order that they should be destroyed,
But you said, “Nay! I have been sent as a Mercy – at all costs violence we should avoid!”
Your farewell message was powerful and concise,
To respect and revere the sanctity of every human life,
“Fulfil your children’s right and that of your wife”.
You taught us leadership and to spread companionship,
You showed compassion when a companion of yours would err and slip.
Your successors were Abu Bakr (RA), Umar (RA), Uthman (RA) and Ali (RA),
Who lead the people as you had taught them, firmly and justly, they guided rightly.
Through perfection, you attained such heights,
Through your beauty, you dispelled the night.
They (those who mock) fail to see your beauty,
Even though no sun, no moon, can compare to thee.
I would sacrifice my mother and father to see, just for one moment your noble face!
Free from imperfection, flaws, defects, full of light and grace.
O Muhammad ﷺ! Your beauty is astounding,
My heart yearns to see you, the thought of that moment makes it beat fast and pounding.
I hope to see You on Qiyamah, and drink the holy water from your blessed pool,
I pray I am not deprived, as I know I am unworthy.
Or then at the scales, I will be in need of your intercession,
If I don’t meet you there, I hope to see you at the bridge, before my final destination.
(Last plea) Forgive me, Ya Rasul Ullah! I am very weak,
Because of my sins, I have lost courage and cannot speak,
But from this day, I shall try, till the very moment I die,
To defend your honour and your dignity, I shall stamp on the tongue of all that speak against you and blatantly lie!
~ Written in honour and memory of the Beloved (Sal Allahu Alayhi Wasallam)
Ismail Ibn Nazir Satia (One who is in dire need of Allah’s Forgiveness, Mercy and Pleasure).
18th Rabiul Awwal 1436
اللَّهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلى سَيِّدِنَا وَنَبِيِّنَا وَ شَفِيْعِنَا وَحَبِيْبِنَا وَ سَنَدِنَا وَ مَوْلَانَا مُحَمَّدٍ وَ بَارِكْ وَ سَلِّم
The eyes weep, the heart bleeds, but our love for you, O Rasool Ullah (SAW) will never die, In Sha Allah.
Muhammad (Sal Allahu Alayhi Wasallam) is always in our hearts and on our mind.
His (Sal Allahu Alayhi Wasallam)’s remembrance keeps our tongues moist.Eyes that are blind, hearts that are hard will never recognise your beauty.
Your kindness came like rain, that cares not, on whom it falls upon.
With the light of your sincerity, you broke the clouds of tyranny. .