Two Lies of the Enemy

The enemies of Islam make an all-out effort to bring down Islam in two deceitful ways. They lie to the world that Islam fails to recognize and appreciate women, whereas Islam has afforded women such position and honour which no other creed or nation can offer. Islam teaches the parent that the birth of a daughter is mercy. Islam teaches the child that paradise lies under the feet of one’s mother. After Nabi (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) received the first revelation, it was his beloved wife, Khadeejah (radhiyallahu ‘anha), who was the first person to bring imaan. Allah Ta‘ala chose a woman to be the commencement of the spread of Islam. If we study history, women were instrumental in the rise and fall of any nation. The disbeliever realizes this and thus continues to make an effort to detach women from Islam. Islam respects women, whereas the world has turned them into slaves of pleasure. Secondly the enemy lies to the world that Islam, under the banner of Jihaad (religious war) spills blood and takes over land, whereas they are the ones guilty of doing this to Muslim lands under the guise of protecting people and fighting terrorism.

The ‘Iddah of Divorced Women

وَالمُطَلَّقـٰتُ يَتَرَبَّصنَ بِأَنفُسِهِنَّ ثَلـٰثَةَ قُروءٍ ۚ وَلا يَحِلُّ لَهُنَّ أَن يَكتُمنَ ما خَلَقَ اللَّـهُ فى أَرحامِهِنَّ إِن كُنَّ يُؤمِنَّ بِاللَّـهِ وَاليَومِ الـٔاخِرِ ۚ وَبُعولَتُهُنَّ أَحَقُّ بِرَدِّهِنَّ فى ذٰلِكَ إِن أَرادوا إِصلـٰحًا

“Divorced women should wait (abstain from remarrying) for three menstrual cycles (after being divorced). It is not lawful for them to conceal that which Allah Ta‘ala has created in their wombs if they (really) believe in Allah Ta‘ala and the last day (i.e. they should not keep their pregnancy a secret). If their husbands desire reconciliation, they have the right to take them back (into their marriage) within this period (of ‘iddah).” (Surah Baqarah, v228)

A woman who is not expecting but menstruates will wait till the completion of three menstrual cycles before terminating her ‘iddah. A pregnant woman will wait till she gives birth. She has to be honest as far as her menstrual cycles or pregnancy is concerned. If the husband issued one or two revocable divorces, he has the right to take her back within the ‘iddah period even without her consent.

The Last Words of Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam)

Suddenly, there was a person, he said salaam.

'May I come in?' he asked.

But Fatimah (Radiyyallahu Anha) did not allow him enter the room.

'I'm sorry, my father is ill,' said Fatimah (Radiyyallahu Anha) , turned her body back and closed the door.

She went back to her father who had opened his eyes and asked Fatimah (Radiyyallahu Anha) , 'Who was he, my daughter?'

'I don't know, my father. It was the first time for me to see him,' Fatimah (Radiyyallahu Anha) said gently.

Then, Rasulullah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) looked at his daughter with trembled look, as if he wanted to reminisce about every part of his daughter's face.

'Know one thing! He is who erases the temporary pleasure; he is who separates the companionship in the world. He is the death angel,' said Rasulullah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam).

Fatimah (Radiyyallahu Anha) bore the bomb of her cry. The death angel came toward him, But Rasulullah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) asked why Jibril (Alay Salam) did not come along with him..

Then, Jibril (Alay Salam) was called. Jibril (Alay Salam) was ready in the sky to welcome the soul of Habibullah and the leader of the earth.

'O Jibril, explain me about my rights in front of ALLAH?' Rasulullah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) asked with a weakest voice.

'The doors of sky have opened, the angels are waiting for your soul.'

'All jannats open widely waiting for you,' Jibril (Alay Salam) said..

But, in fact, all this did not make Rasulullah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) relieved, his eyes were still full of worry..

'You are not happy to hear this news?' asked Jibril (Alay Salam) .

'Tell me about the destiny of my people in future?'

'Don't worry, O Rasul ALLAH (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam).  I heard ALLAH tell me: 'I make jannat haram for every one, except the people of Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) who are inside it,' Jibril (Alay Salam) said.

It became closer and closer, the time for Malaekat Izrail (Alay Salam) to do his work.

Slowly, Rasulullah's (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) soul was pulled. It was seemed that the body of Rasulullah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) was full of sweat; the nerves of his neck became tight.

'Jibril (Alay Salam) , how painful this sakaratul maut is!'

Rasulullah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) uttered a groan slowly. Fatimah (Radiyyallahu Anha) closed her eyes, Ali (Radiyyallahu Anhu) sat beside her bowed deeply and Jibril (Alay Salam) turned his face back.

'Am I repugnant to you that you turn your face back O Jibril?'(Alay Salam)
Rasulullah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) asked the Deliverer of Wahy.

'Who is the one who could see the Habibullah in his condition of sakaratul maut,' Jibril (Alay Salam) said..

Not for a while, Rasulullah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) uttered a groan because of unbearable pain.

'O ALLAH, how great is this sakaratul maut. Give me all these pains, don't give it to my people.'

The body of Rasulullah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) became cold, his feet and chest did not move anymore....

His lips vibrated as if he wanted to say something, Ali (Radiyyallahu Anhu) took his ear close to Rasulullah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam).

'Uushiikum bis salati, wa maa malakat aimanuku - take care of the saalat and take care the weak people among you.'

Outside the room, there were cries shouted each other, sahabah held each other. Fatimah (Radiyyallahu Anha) closed her face with her hands and, again, Ali (Radiyyallahu Anhu) took his ear close to Rasulullah's (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) mouth which became bluish.

'Ummatii, ummatii, ummatii?' - 'My people, my people, my people.'

And the life of the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) ended.

Could we love each other like him? Allahumma salle 'ala Muhammad wa baarik wa salim 'alaihi. How deep is Rasulullah's (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) love to us.

Deliverance for the Suffering Ummah | Palestine | Masjid-e-Aqsa

Hadhrat Moulana Abdul Hamid Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum)

During a trip to the United Kingdom, I gave a talk in a Masjid in London. In the vicinity of the Masjid, Jews predominantly reside.

In that talk, I mentioned that once, when Haaji Bhai Padia (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) was travelling by air, a Jewish Rabbi was seated next to him. In conversation, the Jewish Rabbi said to Haaji Bhai Padia (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh): “We are not afraid of the Muslims today, because Allah’s help is not with them, nor with us. Today, everything is about power: The one who has more arms and more ammunition, wins. We have more, and we are more powerful. However, when the Mosques (Masaajid) of the Muslims start filling up for the Fajr prayer as the Masjids get full for the Jumu’ah prayer, we will not be able to fight the Mu slims, because Allah’s help will be with them, and we can never overcome the one who is assisted by Allah.”

After this talk, a young man came to me and informed me that he is from India (or Pakistan). He said: “I go home once a year. Each time, on my return, my neighbour, who is Jew, asks me: ‘How many people are attending the Fajr prayer?’ …This is the question posed to me every time. Once, I asked him: ‘Why do you always ask me this same question?’ He said: ‘Today, we have no fear for the Muslims, but when their Masjids get full for the Fajr prayer as they do for Jumu’ah, we will not fight them as Allah’s help will be with them and we cannot fight Allah.

”Abdullah S’aud is a brother from South America, whose homeland is Palestine. He related that he was a little child when his family was exiled to South America. At that time, Ariel Sharon mentioned to the father of Abdullah S’aud: “You will come back; but not today and not tomorrow. You will come back when your Masjids are full for Fajr like how they are for Jumu’ah.

”We clamour and we shout and we cry, for the rise of Islam, yet we do not rise for the Fajr Salaah. Our hypocrisy becomes evident in the light of the Ahadith. There is no doubt of a person’s Nifaaq (hypocrisy) if he is absent from the Fajr and Isha Salaah, in the Masjid.Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “The most burdensome prayers for the hypocrites are ‘Isha and Fajr, but if they only knew what they contain, they would come even if they had to crawl.

”[1]Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “A person who does not go for Salaah after hearing the Azaan is committing a great wrong and is doing an act of Kufr (disbelief) and Nifaaq (hypocrisy).

”[2]Hadhrat Abdullah Ibn Mas’ud (Radhiyallahu ‘an hu) had said: “If you neglect the Sunnah, you will go astray. Verily, I have seen a time when no one stayed away from the congregational prayers except for the hypocrites who were well known for their hypocrisy or a sick man. I remember that a man would be brought leaning on two men and put in the Saff (row) to attain its reward and escape the sins of missing it.”

[3]If the entire Ummah performed Salaah - established Salaah - the entire Ummah would be in the protection of Allah Ta’ala, the One who is Al-Mighty and All-Powerful. No power on the surface of the earth will be able to overcome or defeat a people in the special protection of Allah Ta’ala.
Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said:
“Whoever prays the dawn prayer (Fajr), then He is under Allah’s protection. So beware, O son of Aadam, that Allah does not call you to account for being absent from His protection for any reason.

”[4]Boy cotting, sanctioning and marching may find a place in bringing attention to injustice and crippling an economy but they do not draw the assistance of Allah Ta’ala. The assistance of Allah Ta’ala comes only with obedience to Allah Ta’ala and with conforming to the Sunnah. Muslims, today, see some kind of solution in marching and boycotting – but sadly, do not see the solution where it is: In practically implementing the teachings of the Qur’aan and Sunnah.We will only overcome the forces of Zionism and the enemies of Islam taking the route of obedience to Allah Ta’ala and His Rasul (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam).Our condition is that Salaah is neglected; the beautiful Sunnah is disregarded - there is no care and no concern to identify ourselves with Rasulullah (Sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam), by adopting the Sunnah Libaas (dress/garb), maintaining the beard one fist length and following in his noble footsteps. ...The majority do not wa nt to give up the song and dance, the interest and gambling, the western culture or the Hollywood/Bollywood culture, and all other sins. ...Then how will we invite Allah Ta’ala’s Nusrah[5], in this manner?Allah Ta'ala has His conditions. These will have to be met first, before we can overcome our enemies. Allah Ta’ala clearly defines His conditions and His promises:

“Allah has promised, to those among you who believe and perform righteous deeds, that He will, of surety, grant them in the land, inheritance (of power), as He granted it to those before them… So establish Salaah (Prayer) and give regular Charity (Zakaah); and obey the Messenger that you may receive mercy. ”
[Surah Nur 24 : 55 / 56]The Sahaba-e-Kiraam (Radhiyallahu ‘anhum) were able to overcome the super powers of their time because they were living Islam. The keys of Masjid-e-Aqsa were willingly handed over to Hadhrat Umar (Radhiyallahu ‘anhu), the Ameerul Mu’mineen, whose reign as the Khalifa saw the establishment of justice on the face of the earth. This justice was through the implementation of the Qur’aan Sharief and Sunnah and standing firm and resolute on its teachings.Hadhrat Umar (Radhiyallahu ‘anhu), himself, said: “We are a people whom Allah Ta’ala elevated with Islam.” – i.e. true and sincere submission to Allah Ta’ala.

We talk about Masjid-e-Aqsa and the violation and desecration of Masjid-e-Aqsa by the Israeli Zionist forces. However, the condition of Masjid-e-Aqsa is only a reflection of the condition of the Ummah at large.
Sheikh ‘Ali Abbaasi, the Imam of Masjid-e-Aqsa, had asked Hadhrat Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Daamat Barakaatuhum), the principal of Madrasah Taleemuddeen, about the sad and distressing condition of Palestine and asked why there is no support from the Muslim countries.
Hadhrat Mufti Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum) expla ined that he had read in the Tafsier of Hadhrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) that Allah Ta’ala has different systems for Masjidul Haraam in Makkatul Mukarramah and for Masjidul Aqsa.
Hadhrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (Rahmatullahi ‘Alayh) had explained in his Tafsier that Masjidul Haraam is continuously under the protection of Allah Ta’ala. The Kuffaar will not be able to gain control of Baitullah, and the condition of the Muslim Ummah does not affect this protection. This protection has no interruption.

The condition of Masjid-e-Aqsa is centred and based on the condition of the Muslim Ummah. If the Ummah is obedient to Allah Ta’ala, then Masjid-e-Aqsa would be in their full control. If the Ummah is in the disobedience of Allah Ta’ala, then the Muslim Ummah loses control of Masjid-e-Aqsa and the land of Palestine. Control is handed over to our enemies.This is what we see today. A great majority of the Mus lim Ummah are heedless of the Commandments of Allah Jalla Jalaaluhu; even engaging recklessly in sins.

We raise our voices against the Israeli Zionist forces who desecrate our beloved Masjid-e-Aqsa; we march against the injustice, we wave the Palestinian flag everywhere, and we wear its colours in some way or the other - all in solidarity. ...However, if we are not performing Salaah and if, in our lives, there is disobedience to Allah Ta'ala, then let us understand the very, very sad reality: We are instrumental in the desecration and violation of Masjid-e-Aqsa and the oppression of the Palestinian people. Then our role is not constructive; rather it is destructive - because we are a contributing factor to the Israelis having control of Masjid-e-Aqsa. Imam Maalik (Rahmatullahi 'alayh) had said so aptly, in his time: "The last generations of the Ummah can only be reformed by that which reformed its first generations. What was not part of the religion then, cannot b ecome part of the religion now."The first step is establishing Salaah in our lives and working towards bringing the whole of Islam into our lives, practically. If we really want to solve our problems, this is the only way.May Allah Ta’ala forgive us, have mercy upon us, guide us, and grant us the understanding and the Taufeeq of becoming practical on dien. آمين

Khabbab Ibn Al-Aratt RA

A woman named Umm Anmaar who belonged to the Khuza'a tribe in Makkah went to the slave market in the city. She wanted to buy herself a youth for her domestic chores and to exploit his labour for economic gains. As she scrutinized the faces of those who were displayed for sale, her eyes fell on a boy who was obviously not yet in his teens. She saw that he was strong and healthy and that there were clear signs of intelligence on his face. She needed no further incentive to purchase him. She paid and walked away with her new acquisition.


On the way home, Umm Anmaar turned to the boy and said: "What's your name, boy?" "Khabbab." "And what's your father's name?" "Al-Aratt." "Where do you come from?" "From Najd." "Then you are an Arab!" "Yes, from the Banu Tamim." "How then did you come into the hands of the slave dealers in Makkah?" "One of the Arab tribes raided our territory. They took our cattle and captured women and children. I was among the youths captured. I passed from one hand to another until I ended up in Makkah..."


Umm Anmaar placed the youth as an apprentice to one of the blacksmiths in Makkah to learn the art of making swords. The youth learnt quickly and was soon an expert at the profession. When he was strong enough, Umm Anmaar set up a workshop for him with all the necessary tools and equipment for making swords. Before long he was quite famous in Makkah for his excellent craftsmanship. People also liked dealing with him because of his honesty and integrity. Umm Anmaar gained much profit through him and exploited his talents to the full. In spite of his youthfulness, Khabbab displayed unique intelligence and wisdom. Often, when he had finished work and was left to himself, he would reflect deeply on the state of Arabian society which was so steeped in corruption. He was appalled at the aimless wandering, the ignorance and the tyranny which he saw. He was one of the victims of this tyranny and he would say to himself: "After this night of darkness, there must be a dawn." And he hoped that he would live long enough to see the darkness dissipate with the steady glow and brightness of new light.


Khabbab did not have to wait long. He was privileged to be in Makkah when the first rays of the light of Islam penetrated the city. It emanated from the lips of Muhammad ibn Abdullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) as he announced that none deserves to be worshipped or adored except the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. He called for an end to injustice and oppression and sharply criticised the practices of the rich in accumulating wealth at the expense of the poor and the outcast. He denounced aristocratic privileges and attitudes and called for a new order based on respect for human dignity and compassion for the underprivileged including orphans, wayfarers and the needy. To Khabbab, the teachings of Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) were like a powerful light dispelling the darkness of ignorance. He went and listened to these teachings directly from him. Without any hesitation he stretched out his hand to the Prophet (Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) in allegiance and testified that "There is no god but Allah and Muhammad is His servant and His messenger."


He was among the first ten persons to accept Islam. Khabbab did not hide his acceptance of Islam from anyone. When the news of his becoming a Muslim reached Umm Anmaar, she became incensed with anger. She went to her brother Siba'a ibn Abd al-Uzza who gathered a gang of youths from the Khuza'a tribe and together they made their way to Khabbab. They found him completely engrossed in his work. Siba'a went up to him and said: "We have heard some news from you which we don't believe." "What is it?" asked Khabbab. "We have been told that you have given up your religion and that you now follow that man from the Banu Hashim." "I have not given up my religion," replied Khabbab calmly. "I only believe in One God Who has no partner. I reject your idols and I believe that Muhammad is the servant of God and His messenger."


No sooner had Khabbab spoken these words than Siba'a and his gang set upon him. They beat him with their fists and with iron bars and they kicked him until he fell unconscious to the ground, with blood streaming from the wounds he received. The news of what happened between Khabbab and his slave mistress spread throughout Makkah like wild-fire. People were astonished at Khabbab's daring. They had not yet heard of anyone who followed Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) and who had had the audacity to announce the fact with such frankness and defiant confidence. The Khabbab affair shook the leaders of the Quraysh. They did not expect that a blacksmith, such as belonged to Umm Anmaar and who had no clan in Makkah to protect him and no AsabEyyah to prevent him from injury, would be bold enough to go outside her authority, denounce her gods and reject the religion of her forefathers. They realized that this was only the beginning...


The Quraysh were not wrong in their expectations. Khabbab's courage impressed many of his friends and encouraged them to announce their acceptance of Islam. One after another, they began to proclaim publicly the message of truth. In the precincts of the Haram, near the Ka'bah, the Quraysh leaders gathered to discuss the problem of Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam). Among them were Abu Sufyan ibn Harb, al- Walid ibn al-Mughira and Abu Jahl ibn Hisham. They noted that Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) was getting stronger and that his following was increasing day by day, indeed hour by hour. To them this was like a terrible disease and they made up their minds to stop it before it got out of control. They decided that each tribe should get hold of any follower of Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) among them and punish him until he either recants his faith or dies.


On Siba'a ibn Abd al-Uzza and his people fell the task of punishing Khabbab even further. Regularly they began taking him to an open area in the city when the sun was at its zenith and the ground was scorching hot. They would take off his clothes and dress him in iron armour and lay him on the ground. In the intense heat his skin would be seared and his body would become inert. When it appeared that all strength had left him, they would come up and challenge him: "What do you say about Muhammad?" "He is the servant of God and His messenger. He has come with the religion of guidance and truth, to lead us from darkness into light." They would become more furious and intensify their beating. They would ask about al-Laat and al-Uzza and he would reply firmly: "Two idols, deaf and dumb, that cannot cause harm or bring any benefit..." This enraged them even more and they would take a big hot stone and place it on his back.


Khabbab's pain and anguish would be excruciating but he did not recant. The inhumanity of Umm Anmaar towards Khabbab was not less than that of her brother. Once she saw the Prophet (Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) speaking to Khabbab at his workshop and she flew into a blind rage. Every day after that, for several days, she went to Khabbab's workshop and punished him by placing a red hot iron from the furnace on his head. The agony was unbearable and he often fainted. Khabbab suffered long and his only recourse was to prayer. He prayed for the punishment of Umm Anmaar and her brother. His release from pain and suffering only came when the Prophet, peace be upon him, gave permission to his companions to emigrate to Madinah.


Umm Anmaar by then could not prevent him from going. She herself became afflicted with a tertible illness which no one had heard of before. She behaved as if she had suffered a rabid attack. The headaches she had were especially nerve-racking. Her children sought everywhere for medical help until finally they were told that the only cure was to cauterize her head. This was done. The treatment, with a red hot iron, was more terrible than all the headaches she suffered.


At Madinah, among the generous and hospitable Ansar, Khabbab experienced a state of ease and restfulness which he had not known for a long time. He was delighted to be near the Prophet, peace be upon him, with no one to molest him or disturb his happiness. He fought alongside the noble Prophet (Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) at the battle of Badr. He participated in the battle of Uhud where he had the satisfaction of seeing Siba'a ibn Abd al-Uzza meet his end at the hands of Hamza ibn Abd al-Muttalib, the uncle of the Prophet (Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam).


Khabbab lived long enough to witness the great expansion of Islam under the four Khulafaa ar- Rashidun, Abu Bakr RA, Umar RA, Uthman RA and Ali RA. He once visited Umar RA during his caliphate. Umar RA stood up, he was in a meeting, and greeted Khabbab with the words: "No one is more deserving than you to be in this assembly other than Bilal RA." He asked Khabbab about the torture and the persecution he had received at the hands of the Mushrikeen. Khabbab RA described this in some detail since it was still very vivid in his mind. He then exposed his back and even Umar RA was aghast at what he saw. In the last phase of his life, Khabbab RA was blessed with wealth such as he had never before dreamed of.


He was, however, well-known for his generosity. It is even said that he placed his Dirhams and his Dinars in a part of his house that was known to the poor and the needy. He did not secure this money in any way and those in need would come and take what they needed without seeking any permission or asking any questions. In spite of this, he was always afraid of his accountability to Allah for the way he disposed of this wealth. A group of companions related that they visited Khabbab RA when he was sick and he said: "In this place there are eighty thousand Dirhams. By Allah, I have never secured it any way and I have not barred anyone in need from it." He wept and they asked why he was weeping. "I weep," he said, "because my companions have passed away and they did not obtain any such reward in this world. I have lived on and have acquired this wealth and I fear that this will be the only reward for my deeds."


Soon after he passed away. The Khalifah Ali ibn abi Talib, may Allah be pleased with him, stood at his grave and said: "May Allah have mercy on Khabbab. He accepted Islam wholeheartedly. He performed Hijrah willingly. He lived as a Mujahid and Allah shall not withhold the reward of one who has done good."


~ from "Companions of The Prophet", Vol. 1, By: Abdul Wahid Hamid ~

Riding the Wave

Riding the Wave

Once while Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) was performing salaah in the Haram of Makkah Mukarramah, the leaders of the Quraish said: “Who will bring the entrails of a camel and place it on his back when he goes into sajdah.” The most wretched of all of them, ‘Uqba, brought it and threw it on the back of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) when he (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) went into sajdah. At this crucial time, Faatimah (radhiyallahu ‘anha) came and removed this filth from the back of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), while reproaching and rebuking the disbelievers. Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) raised his blessed head from sajdah and made du‘aa: “O Allah! You take care of these people.” A Sahaabi says that on the day of Badr I saw all seven of them lying dead on the battlefield. (Saheeh Bukhaari #240)

 

Lesson: Life is full of challenges. Despite being the “Queen of Jannah,” Faatimah (radhiyallahu ‘anha) had to undergo various problems and difficulties in her life. She took everything in her stride and didn’t fall into a depression or become overwhelmed because of these challenges.

 

When a person is swimming in the sea, the waves are definitely going to hit hard at him. He will have to recover very quickly, before the next one comes crashing. If he gets bogged down by the first one, by the time a few more come, he will be drowned. In the exactly same manner, we need to take the challenges of life in our stride, and recover quickly before the next one comes. Otherwise we will have a total nervous breakdown. On the other hand there will be those who will ride the waves and enjoy the thrill and experience. Similarly if we firmly believe that these challenges are the decision of Allah Ta‘ala, it will become very much easier to bear them thinking that my Beloved Allah Ta‘ala wants me to be in this condition and I need to be totally pleased with it. We should nevertheless always beg Allah Ta‘ala for ‘aafiyat (safety/ease) and for protection from all calamities.

Kindness at Home

Kindness at Home

 

Islam is a beautiful religion, full of wisdom and harmony. If this wonderful religion is followed properly then a typical Muslim would only be a great example to follow. The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam (May Allaah exalt his mention ) said: "The most perfect believer in faith is the one who is best in moral character..."  [At-Tirmithi]
 

Spreading kindness at home:

'Aa'ishah may Allaah be pleased with her said: "The Messenger of Allaah sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam (May Allaah exalt his mention ) said: '"When Allaah, The Almighty,Wills some good towards the people of a household, He introduces kindness among them.'"

According to another report: "When Allaah loves the people of a household, He introduces kindness among them." [Ibn Abu Ad-Dunyaa] In other words, they start to be kind to one another.

This is one of the means of attaining happiness at home, for kindness is very beneficial between the spouses, and with the children, and it brings results that cannot be achieved through harshness, as the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam (May Allaah exalt his mention ) said: "Allaah loves kindness and rewards for it in such a way that He does not reward for harshness or for anything else."

 

Helping the wife with the housework:

Many men think that housework is beneath them, and some of them think that it will undermine their status and position if they help their wives with this work. The Messenger of Allaah sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam (May Allaah  exalt his mention ) however, used to "sew his own clothes, mend his own shoes and do whatever other work men do in their homes."

This is how 'Aa'ishah may Allaah be pleased with her responded when she was asked about what the Messenger of Allaah sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam (May Allaah  exalt his mention ) used to do in his house; she described what she herself had seen. According to another report, she said: "He was like any other human being; he would clean his clothes, milk his ewe and serve himself."

If we Muslim men were to do likewise nowadays, we would achieve three things:

 

1.      We would be following the example of the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam (May Allaah exalt his mention).

2.      We would be helping our wives.

3.      We would feel more humble and down to earth.

 

These narrations should act as a reminder to those men, who demand food instantly from their wives, when the pot is on the stove and the baby is screaming to be fed; they do not pick up the child or wait a little while for the food.

 

Being affectionate towards and joking with the members of the family:

Showing affection towards one's wife and children is one of the things that lead to creating an atmosphere of happiness and friendliness in the home. Thus the Messenger of Allaah sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam (May Allaah  exalt his mention ) advised Jaabir may Allaah be pleased with him to marry a virgin, saying,

"Why did you not marry a virgin, so you could play with her and she could play with you, and you could make her laugh and she could make you laugh?" [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]

The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam (May Allaah  exalt his mention ) also said: "Everything in which Allaah's name is not mentioned is idleness and play, except for four things: a man playing with his wife..." [An-Nasaa'ee]

"The Messenger of Allaah sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam (May Allaah  exalt his mention ) kissed Al-Hasan Ibn 'Ali, and Al-Aqra' Ibn Haabis At-Tameemi was sitting with him. Al-Aqra' said: 'I have ten children and I have never kissed any one of them.' The Messenger of Allaah sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam (May Allaah  exalt his mention ) looked at him and said: 'The one who does not show mercy will not be shown mercy.'" [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]

Sayyidina Bilaal RA: Muezzin of the 3 Harams

Sayyidina Bilaal RA: Muezzin of the 3 Harams

In a narration it is mentioned that Bilal (radiallahu anhu) would often give the adhaan and then he would call Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) hadn’t come out so he went to call the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and he saw that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) was becoming conscious and unconscious and Sayyidina Bilal (radiallahu anhu) said “What grief (Wa Huznaa).” He said, “I wish my mother had never given birth to me that I see this day,” or that he had died before seeing this day. Sayyidina Bilal (radiallahu anhu) went to give the adhaan and he became unconscious.

When Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) passed away the narration mentions that the blessed body of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) had still not been buried and Sayyidina Bilal (radiallahu anhu) gave the adhaan and when he reached the words, I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, often when he would reach these words Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) would come out of the house adjacent to the Masjid, and he looked and there was no Messenger (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). The narration mentions that Sayyidina Bilal (radiallahu anhu) began to choke and he began to cry and all those around him began to cry and for the next three days that Sayyidina Bilal (radiallahu anhu) tried to give the adhaan, every time he would reach the words, bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, he would begin to choke.

He went to Sayyidina Abu Bakr (radiallahu anhu), he couldn’t bear to remain in Madina without Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and he asked Abu Bakr (radiallahu anhu) to allow him to leave. He said he had heard Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) mention the virtue of jihad and he wants to go out and do jihad. Sayyidina Abu Bakr (radiallahu anhu) said, “No Bilal stay with me, I need you.” Sayyidina Bilal (radiallahu anhu) responded, “Oh Abu Bakr, if you freed me for yourself then keep me but if you freed me for the sake of Allah then let me go.” Sayyidina Abu Bakr (radiallahu anhu) allowed him to go out on jihad.
One night Sayyidina Bilal (radiallahu anhu) was sleeping and he had a dream in which he saw Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) saying to him, “Oh Bilal, what is it that you never come to visit us?” Bilal (radiallahu anhu) woke up and travelled to Madinah at a hurried pace and when he reached Madinah he lay on the blessed grave of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) remembering his habib (love). Sayyidina Hassan and Husain (radiallahu anhum) came and they saw him and they asked him to give the adhaan. This was a request from the grandchildren of the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). Sayyidina Bilal (radiallahu anhu) got up and he gave the adhaan and when he recited the Takbeer (Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar), the narration mentions that Madina erupted. It erupted because it brought back the memory of the time of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). The men and women came out of their houses and were emotional.

Bilal (radiallahu anhu) tried to remain in Madinah but he found it difficult because everywhere that he would look reminded him of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and he couldn’t bear to remain in Madinah so he left. Then came the conquest of Masjid al Aqsa and the patriarch said that he would only give the key to Sayyidina Umar ibn al Khattab (radiallahu anhu) and Sayyidina Umar (radiallahu anhu) travelled from Madinah to Masjid al Aqsa and the Sahaabah (radiallahu anhum) who were there went up to Sayyidina Umar (radiallahu anhu) and they asked him to request Sayyidina Bilal (radiallahu anhu) to give the adhaan and he did.
The narration mentions that when Sayyidina Bilal (radiallahu anhu) reached the words, I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, the beards of those Sahaabah who embraced Islam which were black and had now turned grey, became drenched with tears. There was not a Sahaabah whose beard was not drenched. They had to console Sayyidina Umar ibn al Khattab (radiallahu anhu) because it reminded him of being in the company of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). This was the amazing virtue of Sayyidina Bilal (radiallahu anhu) for he gave the adhaan in the Haram in the Makkatul Mukarramah, in the Masjid of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and also in Masjid al Aqsa. All three of the most blessed places.

On the twentieth year after Hijrah Sayyidina Bilal (radiallahu anhu) passed away. He was in Damascus at the time and the narration says that as he was passing away his wife said, “What grief (Wa Huznaa),” and Sayyidina Bilal (radiallahu anhu) said, “No, say Wa Furhaa (what happiness). Tomorrow I will meet Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and the companions.” Can you imagine the level of Imaan that you’re dying, you’re leaving this dunya, and you’re happy to leave this world (dunya) because you want to meet the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said that this world (dunya) is a prison for the Believer (Mu’min) and a Jannah for the disbeliever (kaafir). The Ulama say one of the reasons it is a prison for the believer is because it stops the believer from meeting Allah SWT and His Rasool (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and it is a heaven for the disbeliever because this is all that they have.

Can you imagine the state that you are dying but you are happy to die because you want to meet Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). Sayyidina Bilal (radiallahu anhu) passed away in 20AH. He is buried in Damascus, Makrab Bab as Sagheer. This was a man who may be buried in Damascus but he is destined for Jannah. Allah SWT and His Rasool (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) gave testimony and there were many other testimonies. In one narration Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) is recorded to have said, “Jannah longs for Bilal. We long for Jannah and Jannah longs for Bilal.”

Loving Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and the companions (radiallahu anhum) is part of the belief of a Mu’min. Our capacity to love is endless. We can love many people and even things. Love is something we can give to new people without losing love that we have given to others. But the most important love a Mu’min can have is love for Allah SWT and Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam).

A Test From Allah Swt Upon Me Today

“A Test From Allah Swt Upon Me Today”

 

The following is a true narration from a brother who told me the story today , in Glasgow, UK.

The incident took place on 05/11/2014, at a McDonalds carpark in Glasgow, Scotland, at approx. 9am….

 

 

I was travelling to work, feeling still not fully awake on this cold winters morning. From a distance, I could see the McDonalds sign, I knew I had to stop for a quick burst of caffeine before I got to work. It was cold and I was shattered!

 

I entered the McDonalds drive thru in Pollokshaws Rd, Glasgow, ordered a delicious Toffee Latte and sat in the car park, the warmth of the car heater giving me comfort as I whisked the sugar in my latte.

 

I looked out the window, it was a dry morning, but tremendously cold! Scotland I thought! Sigh! Winter here we come J

Then, a man came to my passenger door and knocked on the window. Who is he and what does he want? Does he need help or something? This guy was dressed in a heavy winter jacket and beanie hat, a middle aged gentleman, white skinned. I opened the window slightly using the electric control, he immediately said, “Hello, are you interested in an Apple Mac laptop, brand new, unopened and an Iphone 6?”

 

I replied, “Emm.. how much ?”

 

He said, “£280 for the laptop and £200 for the iPhone 6”

 

I was shocked! Why so cheap? As I was about to further enquire, he quickly said, “Give me 2 minutes, my car is parked there, let me show you”

He returned to my car with his large sports bag and sat in the front seat.  He took out a state of the art laptop, it was clean, looked brand new and very smart. There was also 2 iPhone 6’s, 64GB

 

I said to him, “Are you sure these are not stolen? I mean £280 for an Apple Mac laptop, and £200 for a 64GB iPhone 6! Why sell so cheap, when you can sell them for much more on eBay or Gumtree?”

 

He replied, “Look, they are not stolen, I assure you. I got them on my credit card, but I have decided that I overspent. I rather get the cash right now, I need some cash flow”

 

I once again glanced at the goods. The shaitaan was there. The shaitaan whispered to me,

 

“Wow, check out these goods. An Apple Mac for £280? You have never had an Apple Mac, it’s always been Windows! And the latest iPhone 64GB for £200? What a deal! “

 

The temptation was kicking in. The shaitaan was working very hard in his careless whispers.

 

The shaitaan then kicked in once again for Round 2.

 

He said to me, “Even if you don’t keep them, sell them and make the fastest profit you can ever made. Cost £480, market value of £1650. Net Profit £1,170. Wow! £1,170 profit! Go for it, what are you waiting for, Are you mad?”

 

Here I sat and was ever so tempted.

 

The seller said, “Look, how much have you got, if you give me the cash right now, can do a final deal of £400. The choice is yours”.

 

I looked at him and then at the goods. ‘Temptation’. The goods were indeed brand new and where would I ever get such a deal.

Then I looked at the goods again. I felt sad. I felt scared. What the hell was I thinking?.

 

I go to the musjid daily, I lower my head to my Creator, my head in Sajdah, the closest  a person can get to Allah swt, I have been through so many difficult times, testing times, I asked Allah swt for so much help during the Ramadhan that just passed, I repented so much and now today, what the hell was I thinking.?

 

The arrow of the shaitaan was on target. I was about to fall into his trap. I was ever so close to engaging the deal and taking the wrath of Allah swts anger.

I knew this was ever wrong. I knew the goods were stolen. It was a very clear basic instinct that this guy was a thief. This guy’s desperation to make some quick cash on stolen goods was ever so evident.

 

Who was I trying to kid? Why was I looking for false reassurance by asking him if the goods were stolen or not. Ofcourse they were and I was simply trying to give myself reassurance that I wasn’t doing anything wrong.

 

I was buying stolen goods. I was party to it and it was fact. Accept it dude. It was haram and the consequences would have been fatal for me in the long run.

I felt broken. Why did I even entertain this guy and how could I let the shaitaan overcome my desires? Why?

 

My level of Imaan started to increase as I used my knowledge of Islam to get out of this tempting deal. I remembered  the beautiful famous hadith:

 

Imams Bukhari and Muslim reported that the Messenger sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam said:

 

“Three persons of a people before you, were on a journey when they were overtaken by a storm and therefore they took shelter in a cave. A rock slipped down from the mountain and blocked the exit from cave.

 

One of them said: “The only way for deliverance left is to beseech Allah in the name of some virtuous deed.”

 

Thereupon one of them supplicated, “O Lord, my parents were very old, I used to offer them their nightly drink of milk before my children and the other members of the family. One day I went astray far away in search of green trees and could return only after my parent had gone to sleep. When I had milked the animals and brought their nightly drink to them, They were fast asleep, but I did not like to disturb them, nor would give any part of the milk to my children and other members of the family till after my parents had their drink. Thus, with the vessel in hand, I awaited their awakening till the flush of dawn, While the children cried out of hunger at my feet. When they woke up, they had their drink. O Lord, if I did this thing seeking only your pleasure, then do relieve us of the distress wrought upon us by this rock.” Thereupon, The rock moved a little but that not enough to let them pass out.

 

 

Then the second man supplicated: “O Lord, I had a cousin whom I loved her more passionately than any loves a woman. I tried to seduce her but she would have none of me, till in a season of great hardship due to famine, she approached me (for help) and I gave her one hundred and twenty Dinars on condition that she would have sexual intercourse with me. She agreed, and when we got together and I was just going to have intercourse with her, she pleaded: ‘Fear Allah, and do not break the seal unlawfully'; whereupon I moved away from her, despite the fact that I desired her most passionately; and I let her keep the money I had given her. O Lord, if I did this thing seeking only your pleasure, then do move the distress in which we find ourselves.” Again the rock moved a little but not enough to let them pass out.

 

 

Then the third supplicated: “O Lord, I hired some laborers and paid them their dues, but one of them left leaving behind what was due to him. I invested it in business and the business prospered greatly.” After a time the laborer came Back and said: ‘O servant of Allah, hand over to me my wages.’ I said to him: ‘All that you see is yours – camels, cattle, goats and slaves.’ He said: ‘Don’t play joke with me, O servant of Allah.’ I assured him: ‘I am mot joking.’ So he took all of it sparing nothing. O Lord, If I did this seeking only for your pleasure, do relieve us of our distress.”

The rock then moved away, and all the three came out of the cave safe and sound.

 

(Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim )

 

 

Thank Allah swt that I remembered this hadith. It made a big impact on helping me to reject the offer and tell the guy that I didn’t have enough cash and perhaps next time.  I thought of the 3 people in the cave where they did something for the sake of Allah swt and how Allah swt then helped them in a difficult time.

 

I have been through a lot of trials in life. Some really painful experiences. I took advantage of this test from Allah swt and feared His Wrath. I thought in my mind,

 

“Oh Allah, I was tempted in this deal, but due to your fear, and knowing these goods are stolen, I won’t purchase them. But oh Allah swt, I did purely for your sake, please help me in my future, my life and help me become a better person. Please do not put any further trials in my life. Oh Allah swt I ask you”

 

I then left and travelled along the roads of Glasgow. I was deep in thought and I had no clue where I was travelling. Ya Allah, thank you for helping me to get out of that situation. I thank you. Those were stolen goods. I just knew they were. If I had taken them, perhaps I would have had temporary duniya satisfaction, but in the long term, I would have faced more terrible trials and tribulations that would give me more pain. I have had enough of pain and trials. I want peace and a bright future of success insha’Allah.

 

I thought of the people who I have known, some people who engaged in wrongful dealings, people who did credit card scams, drove the amazing flashy cars, had the best of clothes.. but it was temporary.  I remember a brother who was engaged in haram activities, he had a new car every few months and was ever so proud in the temporary glamour given to him. Yes, it was temporary. Today that brother has been slumped down on the pavement, fallen down badly, he has lost everything and drives around in a very old car that is worth about £700 compared to the cars he used to drive, costing over the £50k mark. The wrath of Allah swt finally comes, it’s not long.  It’s just a matter of time. Don’t be a fool. Don’t let the shaitaan win.

 

As I drove my car around the streets of Glasgow, saddened and just in deep thought, I took out my tasbeeh and rolled it slowly. I did zikr of Allah swt.  I thanked Him for everything He has given me, I am a thousand times better than a poor man sitting in a mud house with no food.

 

(Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.)

(Qur'an 13: 28)

 

I cant thank Allah swt enough for what He has given me. Why was I about to wash away all my efforts during the recent Ramadhan of Ibadah where the Imam cried during the last 10days of Ramadhan and made a duaa to Allah swt,

 

“Oh Allah I have repented, please accept my repentance, I promise to change for the future and will not engage in any wrongful activities”

 

I wish to serve this true story you all, the reader of this posting. Please don’t be a fool like I was about to be today. I would have got temporary satisfaction, but , the long term consequences of getting involved in haram activities would have detrimental to my future and ofcourse to any of my duaas being accepted…

 

It’s simply not worth it, it simply isn’t.

 

If your duaas are not being accepted, something is wrong. Ask yourself what you are doing wrong that your duaas are not being accepted. And please, look deep in your heart. For only you know the true answer and no one else.

 

Repent today.. life is too short…..

97 countries South Africans can visit without a visa

97 countries South Africans can visit without a visa

 

 

As any local sans ancestral visas or dual citizenship may know, travelling on a plain old green South African passport is no joke.
Before even thinking about entering most countries around the world, we are required to pass the ultimate endurance test: a visa application.

Reams and reams of paperwork, sweaty-palmed interviews, exorbitant amounts of money and throbbing admin headaches later, we may or may not be allowed to hop in and out of a destination as fast as our little legs can carry us.
And for all those endowed with a generous dollop of wanderlust, it really just is a bit of a party pooper.
Or, at least that's the general perception.

However, if you delve just a little bit deeper, it turns out that the world is actually a whole lot more open to us than we may have thought!

All in all there are 97 countries around the globe we can enter on our passports alone, and while they may not be the US, Canada, Australia or most of Europe, there are some pretty dang exciting places to go.
Here's a round-up:
Africa
Most SADC countries are accessible to us without a visa, as long as we're going there for vacation. Any form of work - even volunteering - requires some form of a visa, so make 100% sure what the rules are beforehand.
Here is the full list of African countries we can enter without visas:
Benin, Botswana, Gabon, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Saint Helena, Senegal, Seychelles, Swaziland, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
And then a few where we get a visa on arrival:
Cape Verde, Comores, Egypt, Ethiopia, Madagascar, Tanzania, Tongo, Tunisia and Uganda
South and Central America
The good news is that pretty much the ENTIRE South and central America is accessible to us on nothing but a passport, with the exception of, among others, Suriname, French Guiana, Mexico, Cuba, and Puerto Rico.
Here is a full list of the South and Central American countries we can enter on our passport:
Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Brazil, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Falkland Islands, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Montserrat, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and Grenadines, Turks and Caicos Islands, Uruguay and Venezuela.
North America
Sorry, folks, it's a no go. Visas are a must. Check out what you need for the US Visa application process.
Europe
Well, it's mostly closed to us, but there are a few surprising destinations we can enter sans visa.
Ireland, Kosovo and, this just in, since 1 March South Africans no longer require visas to get into France's Reunion Island.

Also see: Reunion Island - an eruption of unusual landscapes
Asia
Georgia, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia, Maldives, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand.
Visa on arrival
Armenia, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Nepal, Sri Lanka, South Korea, and Timor-Leste
Middle East
Israel and Jordan
Visa on arrival
Oman and Turkey
Oceania
Cook Islands, Fiji, Federated states of Micronesia, Nauru, New Zealand, Niue, Palau, Samoa, Tuvalu, Vanuatu
Check out the Department of International Relations and Cooperation's comprehensive list of visa requirements for ordinary South African citizens