Sayyidah Zainab RA

Allah Ta‘ala has declared the Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) as those who are truly worthy of being followed and taken as role models.

In order to acquaint the Muslim women of this age with the lives of the Sahaabiyyaat (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) so that they may take guidance from their exemplary lives and choose these illustrious and pure women as their role models, Uswatul Muslimah (Role Models for the Muslimah) regularly conducts programmes on the lives of the Sahaabiyyaat (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma), highlighting pertinent lessons that are applicable to our daily lives.

This eBook is a transcript of the programme that was conducted on the pure life of the honorable and beloved daughter of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), Sayyidah Zainab (radhiyallahu ‘anha).

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Khadijah bint Khuwailid Radiyallahu Anhaa - Part three

Jibrail Alayhis Salaam once came to Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam and said, "O Rasulullah, Khadijah is approaching. She has with her a utensil containing gravy, food or drink. When she comes to you, convey to her salaams from her Rabb and from me and give her the glad tidings of a brocaded palace in Jannah in which there will be neither arguments nor burdens".

Scholars state that her reward of a palace in Jannah is an appropriate reward for the role she played in the life of Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam. According to al-Suhaili Rahimahullah her home was the first on the face of the earth to house the message of Islam. She alone enjoys this virtue over all other people.

Further, the description of the palace as one free of "arguments and burdens" appropriately corresponds with her conduct in relation to Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam: when he called to Islam, Khadijah Radiyallahu Anhaa accepted it willingly. She did not constrain him to raise his voice or to engage in debate. On the contrary, she removed from him all burdens, she comforted him from all that was harmful and she made easy for him all that was difficult. So the home that she was given in Jannah by Allah Azza Wa Jalla possessed the same qualities.

Life Has No Second Innings

 In a world enveloped in entertainment, games and social media, people have become paralyzed and transfixed to their television screens and handheld gadgets, closely following the progress of players and teams as if their very existence depended on the result. The present craze “The Cricket World Cup”.

Has it ever occurred to you that the game of cricket can be compared to our lives in this temporary abode?

In Cricket, the batsman does his utmost to protect his stumps from the bowler’s delivery. Whether the ball that he has to face is an in-swinger, an out-swinger, a bouncer, a full toss or a creeper, the batsman has to adjust his strokes and maneuvers accordingly. Armed with his bat he has to strike the ball in such a manner so as to accumulate runs without being caught by any of the fielders.

In a similar manner, in real life, it is imperative for us to do whatever we can to safeguard our Imaan, from the attack of bowler Shaitaan, who has promised that he will muster his forces and concentrate his efforts in bowling down our Imaan. The Quran bears testimony to this, “Then I will approach from before them, from behind them, from their right and from their left.” (Surah 7 Verse 17)

In Cricket the bowler varies his pace, length and delivery in order to outsmart the batsman. Bowler Shaitaan does the same. Let’s take a look at a typical over.

1. Ball number one may come in the form of making you neglect your Salaah
2. Ball number two may be instigation towards becoming vulgar and abusive
3. Ball number three may be a suggestion to cheat and be fraudulent
4. Ball number four may be an impulse to disobey ones parents
5. Ball number five may be a temptation towards immorality
6. Ball number six may be a real googly or doosra - just when you feel you are treading the right path, Shaitaan catches you  inspiring you with pride and contempt for those you perceive as being less pious.  

The true Muslim needs to deflect and strike Shaitaan with the bat of Islam. Like a true professional you need to be alert and quick on your feet. Don’t get caught on the back foot.

Just like the World Cup, man is playing a match of limited overs. You just don’t know how many overs you are going to last. Will you see the innings through or will you be run out, resulting in a departure earlier than expected. In a similar manner some of us are destined to leave this world through ill-health, some through accidents and others through fatal shootings, resulting in a departure earlier than we expect.

The only runs that count are those that you make during the game. When the batsman returns to the pavilion after being given out he reflects and contemplates on how he should have played. After death, when man sees the reality of the Aakhirah his plight is the same. He reflects on how he should have lived his life. He will beg Allah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’aalaa) for a second chance, pleading, “O my Lord! Send me back that I may do a (single) good deed.” (Surah 23 Verse 98-99)

During the game the batsmen is safe only when he is positioned within his crease. So too is a Muslim when he is positioned within the Shari’ah, within the boundaries demarcated by Allah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’aalaa) and His Prophet (Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam). Stump microphones picking up the faintest of sounds and digital technology tracking the slightest of touches is a sure reminder that every word we utter and every move we make is captured.

How often have we left the safety of the crease, the protection of the Shari’ah, and indulged in sin. What would our position be if Malakul Maut (Angel of Death) were to remove our soul at a place we would rather not be with company we would rather not be seen with?

Just as a single catch could cost a match and a single strike could mean the difference between victory and defeat, a single act of kindness and a single urge to succumb to the will of Shaitaan may determine eternal success or eternal doom.

Remember the game of life has no second innings!!!!

by Moulana Imran Khamissa

Khadijah bint Khuwailid Radiyallahu Anhaa - Part two

Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam once drew four lines on the ground and then asked the Sahabah, 'Do you know what this is?' They replied, 'Allah and His Rasool know best'. Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam then said, 'The best of the women of Jannah are Khadijah bint Khuwailid, Fatimah bint Muhammad, Maryam bint Imraan and Aasiyah bint Muzahim, the wife of Firawn'. 

Aishah Radiyallahu Anhaa mentioned that she did not envy any wife of Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam more than she envied Khadijah Radiyallahu Anhaa. He used to mention Khadijah Radiyallahu Anhaa often and praise her much. When he used to slaughter a sheep, he would send some of its meat to Khadijah's Radiyallahu Anhaa friends.

Once Aishah Radiyallahu Anhaa was overtaken with envy when Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam praised Khadjia Radiyallahu Anhaa. So Aishah Radiyallahu Anhaa said to him, 'Was she not an old woman, whereas Allah has granted you a better replacement?' He said, 'No. Allah did not grant me a better replacement. She believed in me when people disbelieved. She accepted me as true when people called me a liar. She assisted me with wealth when people deprived me. Allah granted me offspring from her while He deprived me of offspring from others'. Aishah Radiyallahu Anhaa then thought to herself, 'I will never speak evil of her again'.

May Allah (swt) allow us to draw lessons from the Mother of the Believers, Aameen

Khadijah bint Khuwailid Radiyallahu Anhaa

Khadijah Radiyallahu Anhaa was the first wife of Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam and she was also the closest to him in lineage. She lived with Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam for 24 years before she left this worldly abode. While she was married to him, he did not marry any other wife. She was a woman of great honour and chastity. Women of her time used to refer to her as al-Taahirah (the pure one).

She was a pillar of strength for Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam when he was assaulted, boycotted and unjustly criticised for proclaiming his mission of Islam. All those who grew up in her home became excellent Muslims. These included Ali Radiyallahu Anhu, Zaid ibn Haarithah Radiyallahu Anhu and her daughters Zainab Radiyallahu Anhaa, Ruqayyah Radiyallahu Anhaa, Umm Kulthoom Radiyallahu Anhaa and Fatimah Radiyallahu Anhaa.

In fact, Ali Radiyallahu Anhu became the fourth khalif of Islam and Zaid ibn Haarithah Radiyallahu Anhu became a notable army general who was martyred at Mu'ta fighting bravely against a formidable enemy. Undoubtedly, these stalwarts of Islam were positively influenced to the path of righteousness by the noble character of Khadijah Radiyallahu Anhaa. Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam said regarding her, "The best of women are Maryam bint Imraan and Khadijah Radiyallahu Anhaa".

Wife of Nabi Ayyoob [‘alaihis salaam] – Part Two

Faithfulness is Never Forgotten​

Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam) remained in the state of sickness for more than eighteen years, yet he and his respected wife remained patient and steadfast.

One day, Shaitaan approached the wife of Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam) in the form of a doctor. As he had adopted this form and appeared to be a normal person, she did not realise that it was actually Shaitaan in front of her. Thinking him to be a doctor, she asked him, out of concern for her husband, whether he had any cure for his illness. Shaitaan said, “I do have a cure. However, in return for the cure, he must address me and say, ‘You have cured me’. I do not want any other compensation for my treatment.”

The wife of Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam) returned to him and informed him of what had transpired. As soon as he heard this, he realized that the ‘man’ was no doctor, but was none other than Shaitaan. Being the Nabi of Allah Ta‘ala, Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam) was angered that his wife would even suggest to him that he speak such words, attributing the cure to Shaitaan. Hence, Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam) vowed to lash his wife one hundred times.

This incident greatly grieved Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam), as Shaitaan had now even begun to try and mislead his wife. It is in reference to this attempt of Shaitaan that Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam) made du‘aa to Allah Ta‘ala, asking Allah Ta‘ala to cure him, saying, “Indeed Shaitaan has afflicted me with distress and suffering.” (Surah Saad, v41) Allah Ta‘ala accepted his du‘aa and instructed him in the following words, “Strike with your foot, here is (water for) a cool bath and to drink”. (Surah Saad, v42)

As he did so, a spring of water gushed forth. Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam) then drank the water and bathed in it. Allah Ta‘ala placed the cure for his illness in this water, and through drinking it and bathing in it, he was completely cured of his illness.

Thereafter, Allah Ta‘ala sent him a garment of Jannah. When his wife arrived to care for him, according to her routine and habit, she failed to find him. She saw a man seated nearby and asked him, “Have you seen the ill-man who used to be here?” She was greatly grieved and thought that he had perhaps been killed by wild animals. At that moment, the man informed her that he was actually Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam). Initially, she struggled to believe him, but he then told her of how Allah Ta‘ala had cured him of his illness.

Allah Ta‘ala then restored the youth of his wife, allowing her to bear Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam) children once again. According to some reports, she gave birth to twenty-six sons, while other reports mention that Allah Ta‘ala even brought his children, who had passed away, back to life. Allah Ta‘ala also sent two clouds to him; the first filled his threshing floor with gold, and the second filled his other threshing floor with silver. In this manner, Allah Ta‘ala replaced everything that he had lost and granted him more than he initially had.

Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam) now needed to fulfil his vow. Allah Ta‘ala told Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam) that instead of lashing her one hundred times, he should take a bundle containing one hundred pieces of straw, and lash her once with it. In this manner, the vow will be fulfilled. Allah Ta‘ala says, “And take in your hand a bunch of grass and strike with it, and do not break your oath.” (Surah Saad, v44)

Allah Ta‘ala instructed Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam) to fulfil his vow in this manner as Allah Ta‘ala valued her loyalty, faithfulness and obedience to her husband, as well as the patience and obedience of Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam). Therefore, Allah Ta‘ala mentions immediately thereafter, “Indeed, We found him patient. What an excellent servant! Indeed, he always turned to Allah.” (Surah Saad, v44)

(Al-Bidaayah wan Nihaayah vol. 1, pgs. 262 – 266 and Bazzaar & Abu Yaa’la - Majma‘uz Zawaaid #13821)

Lessons:

1. Many people have good intentions and praiseworthy motives. They sincerely wish to assist people and bring about betterment. However, together with the intention being correct, it is necessary that the means adopted be pleasing to Allah Ta‘ala.

2. The Ambiyaa (‘alaihimus salaam) were such that their happiness and their displeasure were purely for the sake of Allah Ta‘ala. In other words, if they suffered any personal grievance, they would overlook and forgive. However, if the law of Allah Ta‘ala was broken, they would become angry, for the sake of Allah Ta‘ala, and act in accordance with the command of Allah Ta‘ala. Similarly, the Ambiyaa (‘alaihmus salaam) would only express happiness if the occasion was one which Allah Ta‘ala approved of. Hence, the challenge is for us to similarly make our pleasure and displeasure be subject to the pleasure and displeasure of Allah Ta‘ala. Accordingly, if our children do not perform their salaah, it should anger us and prompt us to discipline them. However, if they accidentally break some item of ours, we should overlook and forgive.

3. Allah Ta‘ala never forgets the loyalty of His servants. Hence, whether in this world or the next, He will most certainly acknowledge their efforts and reward them. Thus, due to her patience, perseverance and loyalty, Allah Ta‘ala Himself told Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam) of a method through which his wife would be saved from the hundred lashes. Similarly, if we remain loyal to Allah Ta‘ala, He will be there for us in our time of need.

4. As severe as the sickness of Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam) was, he bore it patiently and did not become greatly worried or perturbed. However, when Shaitaan attempted to misguide his wife, he became extremely worried and turned to Allah Ta‘ala in du‘aa. Hence, we understand that one of the greatest worries and concerns that we should have is for the guidance and piety of our families. For this, we should constantly make du‘aa and encourage them towards righteousness.

Four Surahs’ Series - Part Four ~ Surah Waaqi‘ah

Surah Waaqi‘ah is the 56th surah of the Quraan Majeed and can be found in the 27th juz (para), immediately after Surah Rahmaan.

The special virtue and benefit of Surah Waaqi‘ah is that the one who recites it every night will be saved from poverty. (Shu‘abul Imaan #2267)

On the occasion when Sayyiduna ‘Abdullah bin Mas‘ood (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) lay on his deathbed and was approaching his final moments, Sayyiduna ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), who was the khaleefah at the time, came to visit him.

During the visit, Sayyiduna ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) asked him, “Should I not instruct for you to be given an allowance?” Sayyiduna ‘Abdullah bin Mas‘ood (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) replied, “I have no need for it.” Sayyiduna ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) responded, “The allowance will be for your daughters (after your demise).” To this, Sayyiduna ‘Abdullah bin Mas‘ood (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) answered, “Do you fear that my daughters will fall into poverty? (You should not have this fear as) I have instructed my daughters to recite Surah Waaqi‘ah every night. Indeed I heard Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) mention, ‘The person who recites Surah Waaqi‘ah every night, poverty will never afflict him.’” (Usdul Ghaabah vol. 3, pg. 77)

One of the most common fears which people face is that of poverty. If they do not have this fear for themselves, then they have it for their children and progeny after them – especially their daughters, granddaughters, etc. In this regard, the commonly encountered mindset is, “What if she is divorced? Or widowed? Or her husband cannot support her?” To allay this fear of poverty, which is merely a distant possibility, it has now become a trend for parents to send their young daughters to universities, and subsequently into the corporate environment, so that they have a career ‘to fall back on’. It is as if we are saying – Allah Ta‘ala forbid! – that if we do not send our daughters into these sin-filled environments, Allah Ta‘ala will not give them their sustenance later on in life! The tragic reality is that many have fallen backwards in these sin-filled environments – backwards in their imaan, respect, chastity, etc. May Allah Ta‘ala protect us all, aameen.     

The problem is not one of understanding – it is one of imaan. Sayyiduna ‘Abdullah bin Mas‘ood (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) had firm imaan that Allah Ta‘ala alone provides sustenance. Hence, he knew that the best ‘investment’ that he could leave for his daughters, securing their financial future, was Surah Waaqi‘ah. Such was his imaan that he even turned down the allowance of the khaleefah!

Let us all ‘invest’ in Surah Waaqi‘ah by reciting this surah, which comprises of just 5 pages, every single night, together with Surahs Yaseen, Mulk and Sajdah. Insha-Allah, the returns on this investment will be enjoyed in this world and the next. However, it is obvious that to attain the benefit of these recitations, one must also fulfil all the obligations of Deen and refrain from sin. 

May Allah Ta‘ala grant us the steadfastness to remain punctual on the recitation of these four surahs every night until we pass away, aameen.

​Four Surahs’ Series - Part Three ~ Surah Sajdah

Surah Sajdah is the 32nd surah of the Quraan Majeed and can be found in the 21st juz (para). As with Surah Mulk (Tabaarak), it has been reported that it was the blessed practice of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) to recite Surah Sajdah every night. (Sunan Tirmizi #2892)

The special virtue and benefit of reciting Surah Sajdah every night is that it will protect the one who recites it from the punishment of the grave.

Khaalid bin Ma’daan (rahimahullah), a Taabi‘ee, mentioned the following:

“Indeed Surah Sajdah will dispute, in the grave, in defence of the one who would recite it. It will say, ‘O Allah! If am from Your kitaab then accept my intercession for him, and if I am not from Your kitaab then erase me from it!’ The surah will assume the form of a bird and will spread its wings over him (to protect him). It will intercede on his behalf and protect him from the punishment of the grave, and Surah Mulk also shares the same virtue.”

On account of this invaluable virtue, Khaalid bin Ma’daan (rahimahullah) would ensure that he would not go to sleep until he had recited Surah Sajdah and Surah Mulk. (Sunan Daarimi #3410)

Khaalid bin Ma’daan (rahimahullah) also mentioned the following (from the Sahaabah [radhiyallahu ‘anhum]):

There was once a man who was very sinful. However, he would recite Surah Sajdah on a regular basis, and besides this surah, there was nothing else that he would recite. (After he passed away,) Surah Sajdah (assumed the form of a bird) and spread its wings over him (to protect him). It said, “O my Rabb! Forgive him, for he would recite me in abundance!” Allah Ta‘ala then accepted the intercession of Surah Sajdah on his behalf and said to the angels, “In place of every sin that he has, record for him one good deed and raise him by one stage in Jannah.” (Sunan Daarimi #3408 and Mirqaat vol. 4 pgs. 679-681)

Surah Sajdah is a concise surah as it is approximately just four pages in length. Hence, reciting this surah will take just a few minutes, while the benefit of reciting it every evening will be enjoyed during the lengthy stay in the grave that we will all have to undergo.

May Allah Ta‘ala bless us all to recite Surah Sajdah as well as Surah Yaseen and Surah Mulk every night.   

Wife of Nabi Ayyoob [‘alaihis salaam] – Part One

The incident of Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam) is well known to one and all. Initially, Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam) was enjoying great prosperity. He had abundant animals and crops, many children and numerous homes. Allah Ta‘ala then decided to test Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam). Hence, he lost all his wealth and even his children. Allah Ta‘ala even tested Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam) with an illness that afflicted his entire body. The only two limbs of his body that were spared from this illness were his tongue and his heart. Nevertheless, even in this condition, he would keep his heart and tongue engaged in the remembrance of Allah Ta‘ala.  

As for the respected wife of Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam), there are two views regarding her name. According to some ‘Ulama, her name was Layyaa, while other ‘Ulama have mentioned that her name was Rahmah.

While Nabi Ayyoob (‘alaihis salaam) was patiently enduring this test, most of the people abandoned him, until he was left alone in a corner of the town. However, his loyal wife never left him or abandoned him. She remembered his favour upon her when conditions were favourable, and hence she remained at his side through thick and thin, ever loyal and faithful.

She would patiently tend to him and see to all his needs. In some narrations, it has even been mentioned that when her wealth was eventually depleted, she began to carry out domestic work in peoples’ homes in order to earn a living and see to her ailing husband’s needs. Together with this, she had lost her children and her husband was extremely sick. Through all these tests, she remained patient and did not complain, even though she went from a life of comfort and happiness to one of difficulty and sadness.

(Al-Bidaayah wan Nihaayah vol. 1 pg. 262) 

Lessons:

1. The proverb “a friend in need is a friend indeed” is often quoted, highlighting the fact that a true friend is one who will remain with you in difficult times as well as good times. We can well imagine that if such loyalty is expected of a good friend, then what must be the high level of loyalty that is expected of a true spouse? After all, the relationship between the husband and wife far surpasses any friendship! Hence, a true, loyal wife is not one who will abscond to her father’s house when “the goings get tough”. Rather, she will patiently remain with her husband and assist him, to the best of her ability, as she would expect of him had she been in difficulty.

2. Undergoing tests is an unavoidable occurrence in life. We cannot choose the nature or time of our tests – but we can choose to pass the tests. To do so, we will have to hold firmly to sabr (patience) and remain pleased with the decision of Allah Ta‘ala. 

Four Surahs’ Series – Part Two ~ Surah Mulk

Surah Mulk

Surah Mulk, commonly known by many as Surah Tabaarak, is the first surah of the twenty-ninth juz (para) of the Quraan Majeed. It is just less than three and a half pages in length. Accordingly, its daily recitation and even its memorization are extremely easy.

As with Surah Yaseen, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) mentioned regarding Surah Mulk, “I certainly wish that it (Surah Mulk) be in the heart of every individual of my Ummah.” (Tabraani – Majma‘uz Zawaaid #11477)

The importance of this surah can also be gauged by the fact that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) would recite it every night. (Sunan Tirmizi #2892)

Some of the special virtues and benefits of reciting Surah Mulk are:

Protection from the Punishment of the Grave:

Sayyiduna Ibnu ‘Abbaas (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) reports that on one occasion, a Sahaabi of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) pitched his tent somewhere without realizing that he had pitched his tent on a grave. After erecting his tent, he suddenly heard, from the ground, the voice of a person reciting the entire Surah Mulk. The Sahaabi then went to Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) and explained what he had witnessed. Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) remarked, “It (Surah Mulk) is the surah that protects and the surah that saves – it saves the reciter from the punishment of the grave.” (Sunan Tirmizi #2890)

Sayyiduna ‘Abdullah bin Mas‘ood (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) reports that in the blessed era of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), we (the Sahaabah [radhiyallahu ‘anhum]) would refer to Surah Mulk as “Al-Maani‘ah” (that which protects from the punishment in the grave). Sayyiduna ‘Abdullah bin Mas‘ood (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) also mentioned that Surah Mulk is such a great surah that the one who recites it in the night has indeed done a lot and has done very well. (Tabraani - Majma‘uz Zawaa’id #11479)

Intercession for Forgiveness:

Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) reports that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) mentioned, “Indeed there is a great surah of the Quraan Majeed which consists of thirty verses. It will intercede for a person (who recites it punctually) until he gains forgiveness. This surah is Surah Tabaarak.” (Sunan Tirmizi #2891)

From the above ahaadeeth, we understand that we should all make it a point to recite Surah Mulk every night. This was the blessed habit of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) himself, and furthermore, regular recitation of this surah will assist us in the grave by protecting us from punishment.

Since this surah is relatively short, it will take just a few minutes to recite. 

May Allah Ta‘ala assist us to be punctual on the recitation of this Surah together with Surah Yaseen, Aameen

Beyond the Call of Duty​

During the year 2 A.H., Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) received information that a trade caravan, under the leadership of Abu Sufyaan (who was not yet a Muslim at the time), was returning from Syria to Makkah Mukarramah. Since the Muslims and the Quraish were at war with one another, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) announced his intention to attack the caravan.

The Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) immediately responded and prepared to set out. As the trade caravan comprised of a meagre thirty to forty men, just 313 Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) set out with Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam). Furthermore, they did not prepare for a full-scale war as they did not expect to encounter considerable resistance from the small caravan. Hence, their weapons and even their conveyances were few in number.

After travelling some distance, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) received information that the Quraish had learnt of his expedition and had set out from Makkah with approximately one thousand men, armed to the teeth, to fight the Muslims and defend their caravan. At this crucial juncture, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) turned to the Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) and consulted them, asking them whether they were prepared to proceed ahead and fight the Quraish, who vastly outnumbered them and had superior arms and equipment.

Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) first stood and pledged support to fight. Thereafter, Sayyiduna ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) stood and also pledged support to proceed and engage with the Quraish. Then, Sayyiduna Miqdaad bin Aswad (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) stood and exclaimed the following, “Proceed ahead for that which Allah Ta‘ala has shown you, as we are with you! By Allah! We will not say to you as the Banu Israaeel said to Nabi Moosa (‘alaihis salaam). They said to him, ‘You and your Rabb go and fight, we will remain seated here.’ Rather, (we will say), ‘You and your Rabb go and fight, we will certainly fight with you.’ We will fight on your right, on your left, in front of you and behind you.” Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) was extremely pleased with the response of Sayyiduna Miqdaad (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), to the extent that his blessed face shone with happiness and he made du‘aa for Sayyiduna Miqdaad (radhiyallahu ‘anhu).

Nevertheless, these three Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) who had spoken were all from the Muhaajireen, and Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) wished to ascertain the response of the Ansaar. The reason was that the Ansaar formed the majority of this group which had set out. Additionally, when Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) had performed hijrah to Madeenah Munawwarah, the Ansaar had pledged to protect him in the blessed city. However, on this occasion, they were out of the city, and thus the promise of the Ansaar to fight with Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) did not apply. It was for this reason that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) asked again, “Give me your opinions, O Sahaabah!”

On this instance, the Ansaari Sahaabi, Sayyiduna Sa’d bin Mu’aaz (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), who was the leader of the Aws tribe, addressed Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) and said, “By Allah! It seems as though you are addressing us (the Ansaar in specific), O Rasul of Allah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam)!” When Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) responded in the affirmative, Sayyiduna Sa’d (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) said the following:

“O Rasul of Allah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam)! Perhaps you fear that the Ansaar will not feel it incumbent on themselves to assist you unless you are in Madeenah Munawwarah. I am speaking on behalf of all the Ansaar and I am answering for them when I say, ‘Proceed to wherever you wish! Ally yourself with whoever you wish and sever ties with whoever you wish! Maintain peace with whoever you wish and take as an enemy whoever you wish! Take from our wealth whatever you wish, and that which you take from us is more beloved to us than that which you leave for us! Whatever command you issue, we will completely comply with it and follow it. Proceed, O Rasul of Allah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), for that which you wish, as we are all with you. I take an oath by that Being who deputed you with the truth! If you have to take us to the ocean and dive into it, we will all dive into it with you, and not a single one of us will lag behind! We are not reluctant or displeased for you to encounter the enemy with us!’”

Hearing this response, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) became immensely pleased and happy.

(Saheeh Bukhaari #3952, Seerah Ibni Hishaam vol. 2, pgs. 606-615 and Seerah Halabiyyah vol. 2, pg. 150)

Lesson:

When the news arrived that the Quraish had set out with a powerful army to fight the Muslims, the Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) could have responded in many ways. They could have complained that they had only set out to attack the caravan – not to fight a full battle against the finest fighters of Makkah. Similarly, they could have expressed reluctance to fight due to being under-equipped and vastly outnumbered. Likewise, the Ansaar, who formed the majority, could have excused themselves and explained that they had never agreed to fight out of Madeenah Munawwarah.

However, the manner in which the Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) responded set the standard for the entire Ummah to follow. They responded with complete trust in Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), obedience before him, love for him and submission before his command and the command of Allah Ta‘ala. They put their personal reasoning, interests and wishes aside and made it their sole purpose in life to please Allah Ta‘ala and Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), as is glaringly evident from their response in the incident above. In essence, when it came to Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) and Deen, they went beyond the call of duty and were prepared to make any sacrifice necessary.

This is the challenge which we face on a daily basis – the challenge of giving preference to Allah Ta‘ala and Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) over our own wishes.

Demise of Ali ibn Abi Taalib (Karramalllahu Wajhah)

Events of Ramadhaan

On Sunday 20 Ramadhaan in the 40th year after Hijrah to Madinah Munawwarah Sayyiduna Ali Radiyallahu 'Anhu was martyred at the age of 63.

He was the cousin of Rasullullah Sallahu 'Alayhi Wa Sallam, the first among the youth to accept Islam, the fourth Khaleefah of Islam and among the ten companions who were promised paradise. He married Faatimah Radiyallahu 'Anhaa and had five children from her, Hasan, Husayn, Muhsin, Zaynab and Umm Kulthoom.

He was known for his bravery and even went to the extent of lying in the bed of Nabi Sallahu 'Alayhi Wa Sallam when his life was under threat before migration to Madina Munawwarah.

He was so just during his reign of Khilaafah that his companions report having seen him wearing course cloth not worth more than three Dirhams. When his servant once brought forth a utensil filled with some valuables in it, Ali Radiyallahu 'Anhu immediately rebuked him saying, 'Do you desire that a fire burn the home of Ali (in the hereafter)?'. He immediately distributed the valuables that were shown to him. This was his level of abstinence and caution regarding the property of the state.

His reign of Khilaafah lasted five years and was sadly ended when a Kharijite attacked him during the early morning. He later succumbed to the wounds and passed in Kufa, Iraq.

Demise of Khadeejah Radiyallahu 'Anhaa

Events of Ramadhaan
Mother of the believers, Khadeejah Radiyallahu 'Anhaa passed away at the age of 65 in the Month of Ramadhaan three years before migration to Madinah Munawwarah. She spent 25 years with Nabi Sallallahu 'Alayhi Wa Sallam, 15 years before Prophethood and 10 years after.

She was the first to accept Islam. She first married Ateeq ibn Aabid and gave birth to a boy who was named Abdullah. Ateeq subsequently passed away. She then married Abu Haalah and had three children, Hind, Haarith and Zaynab. At the age of 35 she was widowed for a second time.

At the request of his uncle, Nabi Sallallahu 'Alayhi Wa Sallam joined Khadeejah Radiyallahu 'Anhaa in trade. One day, Khadeejah Radiyallahu Anha saw a dream in which she saw the sun setting in her home. Waraqah ibn Nawfal interpreted this dream to mean that the light of Prophethood would enter her home. After much contemplation, she decided to marry him but was hesitant to make the first move. She therefore requested her friend Nafeesah bint Maniyyah to take matters forward. Upon receiving the proposal, Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam went to his incle Abu Taalib to seek his permission. Abi Taalib gave 20 camels as dowry to Khadeejah Radiyallahu 'Anhaa on behalf of Nabi Salallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam.

She gave birth to six of Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam's children, Qasim, Abdullah, Zaynab, Ruqayyah, Umm Kulthoom and Faatimah (Radiyallahu 'Anhum Ajma'een).

For as long as she lived, Nabi Sallallahu 'Alayhi Wa Sallam did not marry any other wife. After her demise, he would slaughter an animal on her behalf and distribute the meat among her friends and family. 

Four Surahs’ Series – Part One ~ Surah Yaseen

Surah Yaseen​

Surah Yaseen is indeed a unique surah, as it has been termed the ‘heart’ of the Quraan Majeed. Furthermore, reciting it once equals the reward of reciting the Quraan Majeed ten times. (Sunan Tirmizi #2887)

The importance of this surah, in the life of every believer, can be gauged by the fact that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) expressed his desire for every Muslim to memorise this surah mentioning, “I wish that it (Surah Yaseen) be in the heart of every individual of my Ummah.” (Bazzaar - Kashful Astaar #2305)

Some of the virtues and benefits for reciting Surah Yaseen are:

Forgiveness of Sins

Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) reports that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) said, “Whoever recites Surah Yaseen seeking reward from Allah Ta‘ala, his (minor) sins will be forgiven.” (Shu‘abul Imaan #2235)

Fulfilment of Needs

Sayyiduna Ibnu ‘Abbaas (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) mentioned, “Whoever recites Surah Yaseen in the morning, his tasks for that day will be made easy until the evening, and whoever recites it at the commencement of the night, his tasks for that night will be made easy.” (Sunan Daarimi # 3419)

It is thus evident that we should try to make it a point to recite Surah Yaseen every morning and evening. In this way, Allah Ta‘ala will fulfil our needs, make our tasks easy for us and forgive our sins. Let us make a determination that we will commence this practice from today and remain punctual on it until we leave this world.

May Allah Ta‘ala enable us all to enliven our hearts with the heart of the Qura'an Majeed. May the Qura'an Majeed intercede for us in our Qabr & on the day of Qiyamah, Aameen.