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Entries in "Islamic general"
1
Allah our Lord
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Published: Feb.07.2007 @ 8:33 am

Allah our Lord




If we see a beautiful picture painted on good canvas, do we not think that an artist produced it?

If we see an automatic machine, regularly manufacturing articles, are we not led to think that there is an engineer who made, designed and invented its system?

If we see a book written in any scientific field, surely we are aware that an author wrote it?

Surely the picture could not have been created without an artist!

Surely the machine could not work without an engineer!

Surely the book could not be written without an author!

Is it possible to say that this book in your hand was written by chance?

Would you believe it if someone told you that it happened that the paper was scattered by wind, and ink was spilt on it, and thus the book was written?

Basic human sense does not believe such a supposition but rather, makes fun of it. Thus everything needs a maker or a creator; nothing can come into existence without there being an originator: the creator.

Look at the sky and do you not wonder how the bright and beautiful sun sends down its light and heat to the people on earth? Look at the land upon which we live and ask how do plants grow on it?

Look at the water we drink, the air we breathe; the sun when it sets and the night when it comes; then, look at the beautiful stars which are impossible to count, and the light of the moon.

Look, and then think how were these wonders created and who then created them? Are they created by themselves or do they have a creator who made them?

They are as in need of a maker or a creator, as a house which needs a builder to be built; or a chair, on which we sit, needs a carpenter to be made; or a picture needs an artist in order to be painted, or a book needs an author to be written. And certainly Allah is their Creator and Maker Who created everything.

Let us ponder about ourselves and our bodies, and ask:

Who created us in this unique way?
Who gave us two eyes with which to see?
And the tongue with which we talk?
And two hands with which we work?
And two legs with which we walk?
And two ears with which we hear?
Who created the food we eat and the water we drink?

Not the farmer who cultivated the crops nor the plumber who connected the pipes. Without food and water, one will surely die.

Who gave us the air which we breathe? Without air, surely we will suffocate and die.

Indeed, our Creator is He Who created the heavens, the earth, water, air and the stars. And He is All-Great and All-Powerful. It is He Who created and provided us with all these amenities of life.


Knowing Allah, His Greatness and His Grace
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Published: Feb.07.2007 @ 8:31 am

Knowing Allah, His Greatness and His Grace

The Holy Prophet (p.bu.h.) said: "O' people! verily, there is no prophet after me, nor any Ummah after you (Muslims). So, take care to worship your Lord, perform your five ritual prayers, fast in the appointed month (Ramadhan), make Pilgrimage to the House of your Lord (Mecca), give the alms of your wealth in order to purify your souls thereby, and obey the Holders of Authority, so that you enter the Paradise of your Lord."

Khisal-i-Saduq, p.152

Imam Amir-ul-Mu'mineen Ali (a.s.) said: "Having the Greatness of the Creator in your mind would make you realise the insignificance of the creatures in your view."

Nahjul-Balagha, Statement 129

Imam Amir-ul-Mu'mineen Ali (a.s.) said: "Blessed is he who sincerely devotes the entirity of his actions, knowledge, love, hatred, receiving, relinquishing, speech, silence, deeds and statements absolutely to Allah."

Bihar-ul-Anwar, vol. 77, p.289

Imam Sadiq (a.s.) said: "The heart is the sanctuary of Allah, therefore, do not settle therein anything but Allah." (The sacred place of the heart belongs to Allah and Him alone. Therefore, keep the love of the world out of it.)

Bihar-ul-Anwar, vol. 70, p. 25

Imam Sadiq (a.s.) said: "Our true followers are those who, when they are alone, remember Allah abundantly." (That is, they avoid committing vices in private where there is no barrier for them to commit sin by the mere remembrance of Allah.)

Bihar-ul-Anwar, vol. 93, p. 162

Imam Baqir (a.s.) said: "By Allah, He, the Exalted, expects of people but two traits; that they confess for Him the blessings in order that He increases His bounties for them; and that they make confessions about their evil actions and then He forgives those sins for them."

Al-Kafi, vol. 2, p. 426

Imam Husayn-ibn-Ali (a.s.) said: "Verily, Allah, the Exalted, has not created human beings except for recognising Him and worshipping Him as (the consequence of ) knowing Him; and when they worship Him they would lack the need of adoring any human being (or things) other than Him because of that worship."

Safinat-ul-Bihar, vol. 2, p. 180

Imam Ali-ibn-ul-Husayn (a.s.) said: "There is no destruction (Hell) for a believer having three qualities: Confessing that there is no god besides Allah, the One Who has no partner; the intercession of the Messenger of Allah; and the vastness of the Grace of Allah."

Safinat-ul-Bihar, p. 517


Do you Know...What Quran Say About The Six Days !
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Published: Feb.07.2007 @ 8:30 am
Blue Quran

It is mentioned in Quran that this universe was created in six days or six periods. This is mentioned in 7 different verses and also explained in details in three other verses.

1- Chapter: 7 , Verse: 54

your guardian-lord is Allah, who created the heavens and the earth in six days, and is firmly established on the throne.

2- Chapter: 25 , Verse: 59

he who created the heavens and the earth and all that is between, in six days, and is firmly established on the throne (of authority): Allah most gracious: ask thou, then, about him of any acquainted (with such things).

3- Chapter: 57 , Verse: 4

He it is who created the heavens and the earth in six days, and is moreover firmly established on the throne (of authority). he knows what enters within the earth and what comes forth out of it, what comes down from heaven and what mounts up to it. and he is with you where so ever ye may be. and Allah sees well all that ye do.

4- Chapter: 11 , Verse: 7

he it is who created the heavens and the earth in six days - and his throne was over the waters - that he might try you, which of you is best in conduct. but if thou wert to say to them, "ye shall indeed be raised up after death", the unbelievers would be sure to say, "this is nothing but obvious sorcery!"

5- Chapter: 32 , Verse: 4

It is Allah who has created the heavens and the earth, and all between them, in six days, and is firmly established on the throne (of authority): ye have none, besides him, to protect or intercede (for you): will ye not then receive admonition?

6- Chapter: 10 , Verse: 3

verily your lord is Allah, who created the heavens and the earth in six days, and is firmly established on the throne (of authority), regulating and governing all things. no intercessor (can plead with him) except after his leave (hath been obtained). this is Allah your lord; him therefore serve ye: will ye not receive admonition?

7- Chapter: 50 , Verse: 38

we created the heavens and the earth and all between them in six days, nor did any sense of weariness touch us.

Following verse, explain these six periods:

8- Chapter: 41 , Verse: 9

say: is it that ye deny him who created the earth in two days? and do ye join equals with him? he is the lord of (all) the worlds.

9- Chapter: 41 , Verse: 10

he set on the (earth), mountains standing firm, high above it, and bestowed blessings on the earth, and measure therein all things to give them nourishment in due proportion, in four days, in accordance with (the needs of) those who seek (sustenance).

10- Chapter: 41 , Verse: 12

so he completed them as seven firmaments in two days, and he assigned to each heaven its duty and command. and we adorned the lower heaven with lights, and (provided it) with guard. such is the decree of (him) the exalted in might, full of knowledge.

Based on above three verses, some argues that the duration of creation was eight periods and therefore there is a contradiction in Quran. This is clearly not the case here because in the four days mentioned above, also is include the creation of earth in the first two days. Therefore in summary, based on Quranic verses, God created the earth and this world in the two days. In the next two days, the world was prepared for evolving the life. Afterward, skies and spiritual world were created in the last two days.

Let go and let God.
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Published: Feb.07.2007 @ 8:19 am
Let go and let God.








They say that God is everywhere,
and yet we always think of Him as somewhat of a recluse.
God is within you,
but we place Him outside and worship Him.






God gives birds their food,
but they must fly for it.







Prayer is not changing God's reluctance but taking hold of God's willingness.


Who falls for love of God shall rise a stare.

If we just stop looking for the Red Sea to split,
we might see all the wonderful miracles
God makes all around us every day.



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God does not care much for the importance of our work,
as for the love with which they are done.

All religions are paths but the paths are not God.







God is that, the greater than which cannot be perceived.

Love is the highest gift of God.

Abstaining from luxuries is the way to God.

By practicingGod's remembrance,
your inner being will be illuminated little by little,
and you'll achieve some measure of detachment from the world.



God is the East and the West
and wherever you turn, there is God's face.


The prayer most acceptable to
God comes from a thankful heart.

Sooner or later you have to seek God. Why not now?






whoever wants to find God will find a way to Him.



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Sleep in peace, God is awake.

God brings men into deep waters,
not to drown them but to cleanse them.







Know that all which is other than God veils you from Him.



All God's testing has a purpose, someday you'll see the light.
What He asks is that you trust Him, walk by faith and not by sight.


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God, often in His wisdom,sends angels down to walk with us.
We know them best as friends.


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The Quran on God's Love


Say: if you love God, then follow me, God will love you and forgive you your faults, and God is forgiving, merciful
Say: obey God and the messenger; but if they turn back, then surely God does not love the unbelievers
Islam in one sense is different from some other major religions of the world. The picture of God that has been depicted in Quran, as we Muslims all believe, is a combination of love toward good people and aversion toward bad people. This has been repeated in at least 40 verses of holly Quran with a clear definition for good people and bad people. This article aims to distinguish between these two groups based on Quranic verses and clarify the image of people whom God loves.
As mentioned in above two verses, the first step is to follow the path that has been shown to us by god's messenger. This is the most beautiful picture that one can demonstrate as a mutual love. If you do love your God, you are therefore prompted to follow the path that has been shown to you and prepare yourself to receive his love. But it is also stated that the people who do not follow the right path are not to be loved by God.
This may need a little bit more clarification on the definition of right path and people who are to be loved by God. Perhaps the most distinguished characteristic for these people which has been mentioned in 5 verses of Quran (2:195, 3:134, 3:148, 5:13 and 5:93) is to do good to others. Doing good could be helping poor people, supporting orphans or even respecting one's parents which have been also mentioned in various verses of Quran.
Others, based on Quran, are people who:
guard themselves against sin (3:76, 9:4, 9:7)
judge fairly (5:42, 49:9, 60:8)
fight in God's way (61:4)
purify themselves (2:222, 9:108)
turn much to God (2:222)


trust in God (3:159)
and are patient (3:146).
On the other hand, God does not love the person who is:an unbeliever (3:32, 30:45)
arrogant (16:23, 4:36, 31:18, 57:23)
cruel (3:57, 3:140, 42:40)
unfaithful and ungrateful (2:276, 22:38)
exceeding the limits (2:190, 5:87, 7:55)
extravagant (6:141, 7:31)
mischief-maker (2:205, 5:64, 28:77)
treacherous (8:58, 4:107)
and exulting in riches (28:76)


__._,_.___
Aminah.alqaem.org
Why do we pray?
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Published: Feb.07.2007 @ 8:12 am

Why do we pray?

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After a long and hectic day at work, how difficult it is for a tired person to go out to the mosque and concentrate on his prayers to Allah, the Almighty. Snuggled up in a warm and cozy bed, how difficult it is to get up at the call of the Mu'adhin: "Come to prayer! Come to success!"

So Why Do We Pray?..

Have You Ever Asked Your Self That?

PRAYER: A CRY OF THE INNER SOUL His arrogance and pride have often led man to behave as an oppressor and a tyrant. Some men have been carried away by their own self-importance that they have even claimed divinity.
Pharoah, the ruler of Egypt, was among those who announced: "I am your supreme Lord!" With his sense of greatness and pride, Pharoah subjugated the Israelites and made their lives wretched and miserable. But is man really as strong and great as his ego tells him?
The Qur'an tells us the reality of man’s nature: "It is Allah Who created you in a state of weakness, then gave you strength after weakness, then after strength, gave you weakness and a hoary head: He creates what He wills, and He is the All-knowing, the All-powerful"
[Surah 30:54]
Weakness in the beginning and weakness in the end: This is the essence of man.
He is so weak and helpless at birth that his entire existence depends on his parents and his family.
If he were to be abandoned in these first crucial years, he could not survive on his own.
He needs a gentle and loving hand, not only in his infancy, but in his childhood and even in his teenage years. As this child enters the years of youth and independence, he begins to take control of his own life.
He looks with pride at his strong physique, his handsome features and his many talents. He begins to despise those of lesser abilities, even scorning his parents, who exhausted their own health to nurture him.
He becomes unjust and cruel, using his strength and vigour to dominate others. He thinks he is master, free to act as he wills. But does this youth, these good looks last forever? In only a few decades, he begins to lose his strength…his youth is replaced by old age. Weakness in the beginning, weakness in the end." The message is clear: The real Master is Allah. He Alone is Mighty, He Alone, is Great. He Alone is never tired, never needs rest, is never dependent upon anyone.
Allahu Akbar! - Allah is the Greatest! In our everyday lives, we say a warm thank you for the small acts of kindness which others do for us.
So what about thanking Allah, Who, in His infinite Mercy, has provided for every single one of our needs. Just observe the beauty and perfection of the earth around you and fall down in gratitude to your Lord.
PRAYER: THE ASCENSION FOR A BELIEVER After the Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) was commissioned for Prophethood, the first thing he was commanded to do by Allah was to pray.
The angel Jibreel u came to him and a spring of water gushed out of the rocks in front of them. Jibreel u then showed Allah’s Messenger how to make ablution. He then showed him how to offer prayers to Allah.
He began to pray two rak'ah twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. He then went home and showed his wife Khadijah what he had learnt from the angel Jibreel. From that time, the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) never went through a day without praying.
Just before his migration to Madinah, he was taken on a night journey to Jerusalem and then to the heavens (Mi'raj).
During this journey, Allah, Almighty, ordered him to pray five times a day. This prayer was a gift given to every Believer to enable him to experience a spiritual ascension five times a day.
The Prophet said: "The prayer is the Mi'raj of the Believer." It gives every Muslim the chance to communicate with his Lord. During each prayer, the Muslim recites Surah Al-Fatihah:
This recitation is not a dull monologue by the Believer, but Allah promises that it is a conversation between Him and the worshipper.
The Messenger of Allah reported that Allah, the Almighty says: ‘When my slave says in his prayer: "All praise is for Allah, the Lord of the worlds," I say: "My slave has praised Me" When he says: "The Merciful, the Compassionate, Master of the Day of Judgement," I say: "My slave has glorified Me." When he says: "You Alone we worship and your Aid we seek," I say: "This is between Me and My slave." When he says: "Show us the Straight Path," I say: "This is for My slave, and I give My slave what he wants."
The number of prayers in a day have been set at five by Allah almighty. The believer has no choice in the matter but to obey. To reduce the number of prayers would not only be disobedience, it would also lose the benefits of prayer.
For example, a room is only good fro residence if it has four walls and a roof.
If only one wall or the roof were to be removed, what use could it be? Similarly, the prayer will only achieve its purpose and be of use on the Day when nothing except one's deeds will be of use, if it is observed in the prescribed manner.

PRAYER: A PILLAR OF ISLAM
The Messenger of Alah once said: "Prayer is the pillar of religion.'
[Al-Baihaqi]
This makes the image very clear: Islam is like a building supported by five columns; remove just one column and the entire building weakens.
In the same way, when a person stops praying, his faith becomes weak, and the mildest blows can cause it to crumble.
The prayer is so very important that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:Namaz is a piller of Religion. If Namaz is accepted all other deeds are accepted. If Namaz is rejected then all other Deeds are rejected

How true is this statement!

If you look at people walking down the road, it may be difficult to distinguish Muslims from non-Muslims.
Islam is not marked upon a believer's forehead, and neither is Kufr stamped on an infidel's face.
But at the time of prayer, you can separate the two groups with ease.
The believer will abandon his work, his business to join the rows of Muslims in prayer, while the disbeliever will carry on with his worldly affairs.

Surah Al-Muddathir narrates an interesting dialogue which will take place on the Day of Judgement.

The believers will ask the people of Hell-fire:

"What has caused you to enter Hell?" They will say: "We were not of those who used to offer their prayers. Nor we used to feed the poor; and we used to talk falsehoods (all that which Allah hated) with vain talkers, and we used to belie the Day of Recompense. Until there came to use (the death) that is certain."
[Surah 72 :42-47]

The rejecters of truth are silent in this world, but in the next world they will themselves speak the truth.

PRAYER IS LIKE A FORTRESS

Prayer is the basis of all good actions. Below are quoted two passages of the Quran, both of which list a number of good actions. Prayer comes before and after all good actions:-
A. Surah al-Muminun [23: 1-11]

"Successful indeed are the believers. Those who offer their Salat (prayers) with all solemnity and full submissiveness.

And those who turn away from Al-Laghw (dirty, false, evil vain talk, falsehoods and all that Allah has forbidden). And those who pay the Zakat.

And those who guard their chastity (i.e. private parts, from illegal sexual acts). Except from their wives or (the captives and slaves) that their right hands possess, -for then, they are free from blame.

But whoever seeks beyond that, then those are the transgressors. Those who are faithfully true to their trusts and to their covenants.

And those who strictly guard their Salat (five compulsory congregational prayers at their fixed stated hours). These are indeed the inheritors. Who shall inherit the Firdaus (Paradise). They shall dwell therein forever."

 Surah Al-Marif: [70: 19-35]

"Verily, man (disbeliever) was created very impatient; irritable (discontented) when evil touches him; and niggardly when good touches him.

Except those devoted to Salat (prayers), those who remain constant in their Salat (prayers), and those in whose wealth there is a known right, for the beggar who asks, and for the unlucky who has lost his property and wealth, (and his means of living has been straitened).

And those who believe in the Day of Recompense, and those who fear the torment of their Lord. Verily! The torment of their Lord is that before which none can feel secure.

And those who guard their chastity (ie, private parts from illegal sexual acts), except with their wives and the (women slaves and captives) whom their right hands possess, -for (then) they are not to be blames.

But whosoever seeks beyond that, then it is those who are trespassers.

And those who keep their trusts and covenants, and those who stand firm in their testimonies, and those who guard their Salat (prayers) well; such shall dwell in the Gardens (i.e. Paradise) honored."

In these passages, the believers are said to have certain characteristics, the first of which they concentrate on their prayers.

Other signs of believers are:

  • They avoid vain and vulgar activities.

  • They pay their Zakat regularly.

  • They guard their chastity and avoid illicit relations.

  •  Their marital lives are confines to their wives and salve-girls (assuming such a situation exists in which the presence of slaves is justified).

  • Those who do not betray covenants and trusts.

  • Those who stand by their testimonies (as in Surah Al-Marij).

After mentioning these five characteristics, regularity in prayers is once again commended.

The quotation from Surah Al-Marij is similar to the one from Surah al-Muaminun.

It shows that prayer is like a fortress which protects and preserves other good deeds. To guard one's prayer helps guard one's other virtues.

The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said in a similar way:

"Prayer is the pillar of the religion" [Al-Baihaqi]

Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) also said:

"The first thing about which a mans is going to be questioned on the Day of Judgment is prayer. If it is found to be sound all his other reactions will be sound as well. If his prayer is not sound all his remaining actions would be spoiled."

Which Prayer is acceptable?

"Those who offer their Salat (prayers) with all solemnity and full submissiveness." [23: 2]

The emphasis , in this verse, is on humility and concentration in the prayer (Khushu).

There is no doubt that as Shaitan (Satan) is the most bitter enemy of man, he always tries to disturb the believer's prayer.

As soon as a person begins his prayer, he finds his mind suddenly engulfed with memories, problems, worries, work and his family. He may become so engrossed in his thoughts that he has no idea where he is and what he is doing.

His prayer becomes a series of automatic actions, and he will often find himself wondering whether he has prayed three Rakaa or four. This is how Shaitan steals the prayer.

The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) once said that only a tiny portion of the prayer, maybe as little as a tenth or an eighth, is accepted by Allah. The rest is lost because of the whisperings of Shaitan.

It is reported that a Successor saw a man playing with his beard while praying. He commented that: "If there had been Khushu (concentration) in his heart, the other organs of his body would have concentrated as well."

Surah Al-Ma'un also makes a reference to lifeless prayers:
"So woe unto those performers of prayers (hypocrites), who delay their Salat (prayer) from its stated fixed time" [107: 4,5]

A worshipper is neglectful of his prayers either when he delays the prayer to the last possible minute, or when he does not concentrate fully on what he is doing and saying.

Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) was once sitting in the mosque at Al-Madinah when a bedouin entered and began to pray.

He prayed so quickly, that when he had finished, the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) asked him to repeat the prayer. His second attempt was just as hurried, so the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) asked him to repeat it again.

After a third hurried prayer, the bedouin said: "O Messenger of Allah. I cannot pray better than this." The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) then showed the man how to pray.

 He instructed him to recite Surah Al-Fatihah while in the standing position, then to say Tasbih in the Ruku position, to stand upright saying Rabbana lakal hamd, to go down with Sajdah and recite Tasbih, and to sit between the two Sajdah and recite a Du'a.

The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) advised the bedouin to do this in each Rakah.

Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) used to spend a lot of time on each prayer, so that each movement of the prayer could be offered slowly and properly.

He once said: "A man's lengthy prayer and short sermon shows that he has a good understanding of the religion."

PRAYER AS A WEAPON

Allah Almighty says in the Qur'an:
"O you who believer! Seek help in patience and Salat (prayer). Truly! Allah is with the patient."
[2: 153]

Man is, by nature, weak. He needs help at times of misery and hardship. And the best aid we can have is that of patience in adversity and prayer.

Any difficulties, unhappiness and loss should be faced with calm and wisdom. A hasty response or an unwise remark will only cause more problems.

Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) used to look for solace in prayer whenever he experienced difficulties. In prayer one seeks help from Allah, and who can be a better helper than Allah?

The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) used to say to Bilal:
"O Bilal! Provide us with rest with prayer."

PRAYER AS A REMINDER

A non-Muslim once asked the following question during a discussion: "I can understand why Muslims were required to pray five times a day during the early days of Islam.

They did not have many things to do in those days so the Prophet kept them busy with prayer. But our sophisticated and modern life leaves man with little spare time. He is much too busy to be expected to pray five times a day."

The answer given was what is the primary objective of prayer. The Qur'an says:
"...and establish prayer for My Remembrance."
[20: 14]

As man is by nature forgetful, prayer reminds him of the allegiance due to his Creator and Lord.

If prayer was needed fourteen hundred years ago when man did not lead such a busy life style, the it is even more necessary in today's hectic world.

On the one hand, education and work keep people occupied constantly. And when it is time to relax. Shaitan (Satan) has found many new channels to operate through, such as television, the cinema and videos.

Man becomes so engrossed in this life that he has no thought for Allah and the Hereafter.

The need to remind man of the realities of his existence has thus intensified, and not declined in modern times. Prayer is still of utmost importance and benefit in our high-tech lives.

Prayer acts as a shield against evil. Allah Almighty says in the Qur'an:
"...Verily, As-salat (the prayer) prevents from Al-Fahsha (i.e. great sins of every kind, unlawful sexual intercourse etc. ) and al-Munkar (i.e. disbelief, polytheism, and every kind of evil wicked deed etc.)..."
[29: 45]

The following incident will help understand this point:


In the time of Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) lived a man who drank alcohol, gambled and committed thefts habitually..

He came to the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) and asked for some advice which would help improve his character. The Prophet's advice was simple; "don't tell any lies."


The man then left, after having been told to report back the next day. he was feeling very pleased, as the instructions given to him seemed very easy to obey.


At home the man poured himself his usual glass of wine. As he lifted the glass to his lips, he suddenly remembered that he had to report back to the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) the next day.


He would be asked about that day's activities, and if he admitted in front of all the Companions that he had been drinking, it would be terribly embarrassing for him.



If, however, he did not admit to having drunk wine, it would be a lie.


So he put the wine away.


The same thing happened when he was about to start gambling and go on his robbing expedition. And once this man had taken the first positive step towards fighting his evil habits, he was able to reform very quickly.



Prayer can have a very similar effect. If a person remembers five times a day that he will stand on his prayer-mat and address his Lord, it will prevent him from committing the sins that Shaitan has been encouraging him to do.



The quality of the prayer is of utmost importance as well. consider a house with solid foundations, concrete walls and a strong roof. this house will be able to withstand all forms of bad weather, be it winds, hail or storms.


After all, the purpose of a house is to provide shelter and protection against these elements. If, on the other hand, the house is loosely constructed with leaves and grass, it will blow away at the slightest hint of bad weather.



This image applies very clearly to prayer.


If a prayer is offered regularly, at the correct time, with sincerity of intention and concentration on what is being recited, it will strengthen the person's Faith and provide comfort and strength in times of trouble.



Irregular and insincere prayers will be of little use to a person in times of distress. A healthy body can combat viruses with more ease that can a weak body.



PRAYER: THE FIRST STEP TOWARDS ESTABLISHING THE ISLAMIC SHARIAH AS A WHOLE



The Qur'an records the following conversation between Prophet Shuaib and his people:


"And to the Madyan (Midian) people (We sent) their brother Shuaib. He said: O my people! Worship Allah, you have no other Ilah (god) but Him, and give not short measure or weight, I see you in prosperity; and verily I fear for you the torment of a Day encompassing.


And O my people! Give full measure and weight in justice and reduce no the things that are due to the people, and do not commit mischief in the land, causing corruption.


That which is left by Allah for you (after giving the rights of the people) is better for you, if you are believers. And I am not sent over you as a guardian."


[11: 84-86]



This was an invitation to honor the Rights of Allah (by accepting Tawhid) and honor the rights (in daily trade and business).


But Shuaib's people replied with sarcasm:


"They said: O Shuaib! Does your prayer (i.e., the prayers which you offer has spoiled your mind, so you) command that we leave off what our fathers used to worship, or that we leave off doing what we like with our property? Verily, you are the forbearer, right-minded!"


[11: 87]



Shuaib's people realized that the Prophet was not simply asking them to pray regularly but that he wanted them to establish a whole new economic system as well, hence the references to fair trading.


The lesson to be learned from this is that in Islam, there is no leaving "What belongs to God, for God; and what belongs to Caesar, for Caesar."


Everything belongs to God.


How can a Muslim who worships Allah Almighty during his five daily prayers, be expected to obey others in other aspects of his daily life.


There can be no duality of authority in Islam. Allah is the Creator , and His Alone is the right to legislate and demand loyalty. Man is the slave of Allah and should obey Him Alone.



Muslims who live in a non-Muslim state may feel that they are unable to implement the Din of Allah in their political and economic lives, but those Muslims who live in Muslim countries have no excuse for allowing the Din of Allah to be confined to a personal level.



Muslims should be clear that the Din of Allah does not consist simply of prayers, fasting, charity and Hajj. It is their duty to implement all Islamic teachings in political, economic and social fields.



"Truly, the religion with of Allah is Islam..." [3: 19]



"And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers". [3: 85]



Today's false idols, which dominate over the entire world, are Democracy, Capitalism, Socialism and communism.


Instead, Islam calls for a Khilafa (caliphate) based on consultation, and a just economic system based on Zakat and a prohibition of usury.


If you remove any of these three characteristics, you make it impossible for Islamic law to operate properly.



The Qur'an describes clearly the first duty of a Muslim ruler:


"Those (Muslim rulers) who, if We give them power in the land, (they) order for Iqamat-as-Salat{ (i.e. to offer prayers perfectly-the five compulsory, congregational prayers (the males in mosques)}, to pay the Zakat and they enjoin Al-Maruf (i.e. Islamic Monotheism and all that Islam orders one to do), and forbid Al-Munkar (i.e., disbelief, polytheism and all that Islam has forbidden) {i.e. they make the Quran as the law of their country in all the spheres of life}.


And with Allah rests the end of (all) matters (of creatures)."


[22: 41]



A well-known Arabic saying is: "The people follow the religion of their kings."


Ordinary people enjoy imitating their rulers, and if those in authority set a good example by praying and fasting regularly, the people will be encouraged to do so as well.


Those in power can also provide material assistance, such as the construction of mosques and prayer facilities in public places.


The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) advised the people not to rebel against their leaders...as long as the leaders establish prayer and do not commit acts of open disobedience to Allah.


This advice will save the Muslim nation from anarchy and useless bloodshed.



PRAYER AS AN EXPIATION OF SINS



Prayer not only stimulates a person to do good deeds, but it also takes away his minor sins.


"Verily, the good deeds remove the evil deeds (i.e. small sins)"


[11: 114]



As prayer is the best of all good actions, it can erase many sins. 'Ali narrated that Abu Bakr heard Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) saying:



'Whoever commits a sin, but performs ablution in the best way, then offers two Rakat prayer, and he asks for the forgiveness of Allah, Allah almighty forgives his sins'


This does not mean to say that a person can commit as many sins as he likes, as long as he follows each sin with a prayer.


What Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) was showing is that repentance opens the door to forgiveness. Prayer is a form of repentance and should be offered with sincerity and a true desire to amend one's character.


After repenting, the person's Faith should be revived, and he should fight all Satanic temptations to do evil.



In Surah Al-Furqan repentance is described as a way out for those who commit major sins:


"And those who invoke not any other Ilah (god) along with Allah, nor kill such life as Allah has forbidden, except for just cause, nor commit illegal sexual intercourse - and whoever does this shall receive the punishment.


The torment will be doubled to him on the Day of Resurrection, and he will abide therein in disgrace.


Except those who repent and believe (in Islamic Monotheism), and do righteous deeds, for those, Allah will change their sins into good deeds, and Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.


And whosoever repents and does righteous good deeds, then verily, he repents towards Allah with true repentance"


[25: 68-71]



PRAYER: THE FIRST QUESTION ON THE DAY OF JUDGMENT



Man was sent to this world for only one purpose:


"And I (Allah) created not the jinns and men except they should worship Me (Alone)"


[51: 56]



Man is to live in this world as a worshipper of his Creator, and the best form of worship is prayer.


On the Day of Judgment, man will have to answer for each and every deed committed on this earth.


He will be asked about the bounties bestowed upon him in this life:


"Then, on that Day, you shall be asked about the delight (you indulged in, in this world)!


[102: 8]



But the first question to be asked on that Great Day will be about prayer. Man has two Mauqif (standing positions) in front of his Creator, one in this world and one in the next.


The first is his prayer-mat when he stands in regular prayer to his Lord. The second will be on Judgment Day when his actions will be brought forward as evidence.


If his first stand (i.e. his prayer) is found to be correct, his second stand will be made easy for him.


If his first stand was faulty, he will face immense difficulties in the second stand.



To intentionally neglect even a single prayer is a serious sin for which there can be no compensation.


A Muslim is not to miss a prayer even in the terrifying moments of battle, so how can there be justification for missing his prayers in ordinary circumstances. during battle, the Imam leads same ranks of the contingent in one Rakat of the prayer, while the other soldiers continue to fight. The soldiers then change places, and the Imam leads the second group in prayer, while the first resumes fighting.


This continues until everyone had prayed. This particular prayer is called Salat al-Khauf (Prayer of Fear) because of its unusual circumstances.



Another form of prayer is the shortened prayer, which is allowed during battle and traveling.


The prayers which normally consist of four Rakaat i.e. Zuhr, Asr, and Isha) are shortened to two Rakaat, but in no circumstances can a prayer be missed.


The only exemption available is for menstruating women, who are not required to pray during this time.


At all other times women must pray just like men. So strict is the requirement of prayer that a person who is ill, no matter how seriously, must pray as long as he or she is in consciousness.


If the person can not stand, then the prayer is offered in the sitting position; if the person is too ill to sit, then the prayer is offered in the lying position, using the eyes, head, hands, etc., to signal the different movements of the prayer.



PRAYER: A DUTY KNOWN TO EVERY PROPHET OF ALLAH



Prophet Ibrahim (alayhis salam) recited the following Du'a when he was raising the walls of the Ka'bah in Makkah:



"O our Lord! I have made some of my offspring to dwell in a valley with no cultivation, by Your Sacred House; in order, O our Lord, that they may offer prayers perfectly"


[14: 37]



While he prayed for himself and his children, Prophet Ibrahim did not ask for riches and fame. He pleaded instead:



"O my Lord! Make me one who offers prayers perfectly, and (also) from my offspring, our Lord! And accept my invocation. Our Lord! Forgive me and my parents, and (all) the believers on the Day when the reckoning will be established"


[14: 40-41]



Prophet Ismail (alayhis salam) has also been praised for his character in the Qur'an:



"And mention in the Book Ismail. Verily! He was true to what he promised, and he was a Messenger, (and) a Prophet. And he used to enjoin on his family and his people As-Salat (i.e. order them to offer the prayers perfectly) and the Zakat, and his Lord was pleased with him" [19: 54-55]



Prophet Zakariyyah (alayhis salam) was childless in his old age, and he yearned constantly for a son: "At that time Zakariyyah (Zachariah) invoked his Lord, saying:


'O my Lord! Grant me from You, a good offspring. You are indeed the All-Hearer of invocation.'"


[3: 38]



And while he was praying to Allah, he received the good news:


"Then the angels called him, while he was standing in prayer in Al-Mihrab (a praying place or a private room), (saying): 'Allah gives you glad tidings of Yahya (John) confirming (believing in) the Word from Allah {i.e. the creation of Jesus" (Be!"- and he was! )}, noble, keeping away from sexual relations with women, a Prophet, from among the righteous'"


[3: 39]



Prophet Isa (alayhis salam) received Divine communications while he was still a baby in his cradle: "...and has enjoined on me Salat (prayer), and Zakat, as long as I live"


[19: 31]



So the daily prayer is not a new act introduced by Allah's Messenger (pbuh). It is a form of personal communication with Allah, and it is as old as the first man on this planet.



Prayer cannot be an isolated act:


The Qur'an mentions the act of prayer about thirty-five times, but never alone.


It always couples prayer with giving Zakat or spending on the poor and needy. The two are inseparable.


The person who gives charity but does not pray five times a day is only earning the displeasure of Allah.




Another virtue which is mentioned with prayer in the Qur'an is patience:


"O you who believer! Seek help in patience and Salat (prayer). Truly! Allah is with the patient."


[2: 153]



Man is surrounded by external and internal problems.


To deal with these, he has been given the two weapons of prayer and patience.


Patience helps him withstand external hostilities and opposition. Prayer strengthens his internal relationship with God.



Another requirement alongside prayer is that of sacrifice, on the day of Eid during the time of Hajj:


"Therefore turn in prayer to your Lord and sacrifice (to Him only). For he who makes you angry (O Muhammad), - he will be cut off (from every good thing in this world and in the Hereafter)"


[108: 2-3]



This association of prayer and sacrifice is explained in Surah Al-A'nam:


"Say (O Muhammad): 'Verily, my prayer, my sacrifice, my living, and my dying are for Allah, the Lord of the Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exists)'"


[6: 162]



Prayer is an act of life, and sacrifice symbolizes death. Whether our actions are concerned with life or death, our sole purpose must be the Pleasure of Allah.


No sacrifice may be offered to any being other than Allah, just as no prayer is valid except if directed to Allah.



WHY DOES MAN ABANDON PRAYER?



Allah Almighty says:


"Then, there has succeeded them a posterity who have given up prayers (i.e. made their prayers to be lost, either by not offering them or by not offering them perfectly or by not offering them in their proper fixed times, etc.) and have followed lusts. so they will be thrown in Hell.


Except those who repent and believe (in the Oneness of Allah and His Messenger Muhammad {pbuh}) and work righteousness. Such will enter Paradise and they will not be wronged in aught"


[19: 59-60]



Preceding this verse, the Qur'an gives the example of many previous Prophets and their guided followers.


This particular verse explains that the people who abandon prayer are those who follow their own selfish desires.


The Key to Prosperity
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Published: Feb.07.2007 @ 8:10 am


The Key to Prosperity


   The word "prosperity" has been defined in the Webster's dictionary as follows:

* The condition of being prosperous and having good fortune or financial success.

   The word "prosperous" has been defined as:

* Having success, flourishing, well to do, and well off.

   The Islamic way of life and the Islamic life-style are indeed the key to prosperity in this world and in the hereafter. The Islamic way of life is a way through which a person can live his daily life with happiness, peace, tranquility, and success in this world and in the hereafter.

   Moreover, prosperity is for the individual in as much as it is for the family, the local society, other societies, government, and other governments as well.

 Prosperity in the Qur'an

   Islam has encouraged every person to strive well in order to be successful in this world and in the hereafter. The Qur'an speaks about "successful people" forty (40) times. The Qur'an talks about Al-Muflihoon by specifying their obligations, their actions, their deeds, and their good intentions. In Surah Al-Muminoon (Chapter of The Believers), Allah says the following:

  "Successful indeed are the believers, who are humble in their prayers; and who keep aloof from what is vain;

And who are givers of poor-rate; and who guard their private parts, except before their mates or those whom their hands possess, for they surely are not blame able,

but whoever seeks to go beyond that, these are they that exceed the limits; and those who are keepers of their trusts and their covenants; and those who keep a guard on their prayers; these are they who are the heirs, who shall inherit the Paradise; they shall abide therein."

(23:1-11)

   While in Surah Al-Baqara, Allah has explained more about the factors that make people prosperous and successful. The following are the starting verses of the Chapter:

  "Alif Lam Mim.

This Book, there is no doubt in it, is a guidance to those who guard (against evil); those who believe in the unseen and keep up prayer and spend out of what We have given them;

And who believe in that which was revealed before you and they are sure of the Hereafter; these are on a right course from their Lord and these it is that shall be successful." (2:1-5)

   By going through these Verses of the Qur'an, one is able to identify certain activities, deeds and actions that lead to prosperity and success in this world and the Hereafter. They are:

1. Performing Prayer (Salat) with Pleasure

2. Paying charity

3. Belief in the Unseen

4. Belief in what Prophet Muhammad (SAW) received (the Qur'an)

5. Belief in what the previous Prophets received (Revelations)

6. Belief in the Day of Judgement

7. Refraining from meaningless conversations

8. Refraining from the haram: alcohol, gambling, etc.

9. Refraining from indulging in magic

10. Preserving morality, practicing modesty and chastity

11. Fulfilling on promises

12. Taking care of the trust given to them

13. Exercising patience at all times

14. Having Taqwa

15. Jihad for the love of Allah

16. Doing good and helping others

17. Performing Salat-e-Taubah

18. Speaking the truth and refraining from lies

19. Remembrance of Allah daily

20. Inviting people to the teachings of Allah

21. Instructing people to refrain from doing haram (Forbidden Acts)

22. Being a member of the Party of Allah (Hizbullah)

23. Abstaining from being stingy and miserly

24. Reciting and listening to the Qur'an daily

25. Abstaining from Zulm and Zaalimoon, that is, those who inflict injustice and harm to others

 Prosperity / Success in the Hereafter

   The most important task in an individual's life is to do something in this world so as to acquire success for the Hereafter. The following is a partial list of activities, deeds, actions and services that one can to do in order to be among the successful people on the Day of Judgment:

1.  Good intention

2.  Honesty and sincerity for the love of Allah

3.  To do good for others

4.  To be among the first in doing good

5.  Sadaqa and charity

6.  Sharing useful knowledge with others

7.  Taking care of orphans

8.  Preparing one to leave this world and to go to Allah

9.  Trying to enlighten one's own grave before going there

10. Visiting cemeteries, hospitals, prisons, and refugee camps

11. Raising children properly, so as to make "Du'a Maghfirah" after

Death

12. To be among the seven categories of people that Allah will take care of, and provide shade during the Day of Assembly and the Day of Judgment. These people are:

a) An Imam who is fairs and just

b) A person who lives with the obedience of Allah

c) A person who loves to visit mosques daily

d) A person who spends money so that his right hands doesn't allow the left hand to know how many doe he spends

e) When a beautiful woman with a high position invites a person to go astray, he refuses because he obeys in Allah

f) Two people, who get to know one another, become good friends and remain such, even after they depart to different parts of the world

g) A person who remembers Allah privately, and tears flow upon his face

 Extra Bonus

   Those who wish to earn more rewards and blessings from Allah can do some extra activities, services, and sacrifices. Such groups of people will be given extra bonuses from Allah in this world and in the Hereafter. Their credits of rewards will be much more than others. Their lives should be devoted for the love of Allah, and theSunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Some of these activities would be as the followings:

1.  Praying Salat Tahajjud

2.  Praying Salat Haajah

3.  Praying Salat Istikharah

4.  Praying extra Salat such as Sunnat al-Wadoo, Sunnat Tahiyat al-Masjid, and Salat Tasbeeh, etc.

5.  Fasting the extra days outside the month of Ramadan such as: Mondays, Thursdays, Day of Arafa, few days in Dhu al Hijja, and Rajab and Sha'ban.

6.  To analyze daily before going to sleep so as to make sure to be better day by day

7.  To ask for forgiveness from Allah, and to ask for His guidance on a daily basis

8. To read Ayatul-Kursi and the two Surahs of Qul-Aadhu before going to sleep

9. To deny yourself in order to contribute to those who are less fortunate than you

10. One has to have a pleasing personality, character, a smiling face, and amicable relations with others

11. There are many more activities that one may have to perform or avoid, in order to earn the Mercy and Blessings of Allah. The more a person is close to Allah, the more will he guide him

Final Remarks

   As a final statement in this paper, it is better to quote the Qur'an about the winners and the successful people in this world and in the Hereafter. Almighty Allah says in Surah Luqman the following:

  "Alif Lam Mim. These are verses of the Wise Book - a Guide and a Mercy to the doers of Good - those who establish regular prayers, and give regular charity, and have in their hearts the assurance of the Hereafter. These are on true guidance from their Lord; and these are the ones who will prosper. (31:1-5)


Society (The Evils of Isolation)
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Published: Jan.10.2007 @ 7:10 am


Society (The Evils of Isolation) 

KNOW that among both the worldly and the spiritual objectives of Islam are issues which rely on mutual aid and assistance among Muslims and that cannot come about except via"society" (social mixing) and the intermingling of Muslims with one another.

In fact, our very survival as Muslims and our protection from our avowed enemy Iblis depends on our holding fast to the society of Muslims and avoiding isolation and separation. 

Allah's Messenger (sas) warned us about this.

"Verily Ash-Shaitaan is the wolf of mankind like the wolf of [who preys on] sheep. 

He takes distant one who wanders to one side. So beware of the canyons and hold fast to the group, the masses and the masjid."

Shaitaan the accursed is well aware of this weakness and sends constant expeditions against mankind to separate and divide them from one another in every way he can. 

The Prophet (sas) said:

"Iblis places his throne upon the water and then sends out his expeditions.

The closest of them to him are those who create the most strife (fitnah).

One of them will return and say, 'I did such-and-such' and he will say, 'You have done nothing'.

Then one of them will come and say, 'I did not leave him alone until I created division between him and his wife.' He brings this one close and says, 'You are the best'."

Staying together and connected as Muslims is essential to our well-being and the way to it is adherence to the good character and good interaction as exemplified in the Qur'an and the Sunnah.  

The Prophet (sas) said:

"Whoever did not show thankfulness for a little will not show it for a lot. And whoever did not thank people will not thank Allah. 

Conversing about the favors of Allah is gratitude and turning away from it is disbelief.

The collective is mercy and isolation is punishment."

After reading the above, use it to understand Allah's statement:

{By the night as it covers over (1) 

By the day as it manifests clearly (2) 

By the One who created male and female (3) 

Verily your strivings are varied (4) 

As for the one who gives and fears Allah (5) 

And acknowledges the best (6) 

So we will make way easy to ease. (7) 

But as for the one who is miserly and feels free of need [for others] (8) 

And belies the best (9) 

So we will make easy his way to hardship (10)}

Allah describes here those who GIVE, FEAR ALLAH and ACKNOWLEDGE THE BEST

It is narrated here that "the best" is Paradise or all of the favors of Allah upon us in general. 

So, the one who is grateful to Allah for his favors is also among those who fear Allah and among those who "give", which means they give help and/or things to others - which by definition means that they are not isolated and cut off from others..

On the contrary, the other group is described as being miserly, i.e., not wanting to help others with what Allah has given them. Allah says about them "istaghnaa" which means that they feel no need for others. 

In other words, in their evil and miserly hearts, they would not help others except only as they felt that THEY may need something from those others instead of seeking the pleasure and reward of Allah in that help or that giving.

This is so normal in our times that it is not even considered the exception!

This feeling of "istighnaa" (lack of need for others) is the fundamental ignorance which underlies all miserliness and selfishness. 

The slave of Allah realizes always his profound poverty and need before Allah no matter what he seems to possess at the moment.

So, as the hadith says, this one shows no gratitude neither to Allah nor to other Muslims.

There are many benefits from mingling and staying connected to the Muslims. 

Among them are teaching and learning, helping and receiving help, learning and exemplifying manners (adab), the pleasure of one another's company, getting thawaab (reward) for maintaining the rights of others, learning humility, gaining experience and insight from these experiences and learning from them.

These are some of the many benefits of the society of Muslims and our holding fast to one another and not separating ourselves.

Teaching and Learning

If one isolates himself before learning much about Islam such that he knows all of his obligations toward Allah and toward others, there is no good in his isolation.  

"Gain knowledge before isolating yourself (for worship). Knowledge is the foundation of the deen and there is no good in the isolated worship of the common folk."

On the other hand, if one isolates himself after learning Islam for the purpose of worship, this may be of benefit to him personally, but will be a harm to the Muslims at large who are in desparate need of the knowledge which he has acquired. 

So, his obligation to benefit others with that knowledge does not leave room for him to isolate himself from the Muslims even if there might be some benefit in that for him. 

Since imparting this knowledge is fardh kifaya, the previous statement is more true when knowledge and its people are relatively scarce.

There is great reward in teaching others when the intention is righteous and sound. If however, one does so out of desire for reputation and to have a large number of followers, that will be his destruction in his deen.

Economic Benefits, etc.

Muslims have needs to receive benefits from one another such as employment, physical help, etc. and to give that help to one another. 

In a Muslim society, there is a need to intermingle and be connected so that these needs may be discovered and fulfilled.

In a mixed or Muslim-minority situation it becomes even more critical since giving and receiving such benefits exclusively with the disbelievers introduces all kinds of corruption into the Muslims.

One who had needs has no choice but to be connected to the Muslim society to seek the fulfillment of those needs. 

One who has some ability to benefit others in this way should not choose isolation over connection as this will leave unmet needs among the Muslims.

There is a great reward for involving oneself in the needs of others and this should never be neglected for extraogatory acts of worship.  The Prophet (sas) said:

"Every Muslim is the brother of every other Muslim. He does not oppress him nor turn him over [to his enemy]. 

Allah is occupied with the needs of one who is occupied with the needs of his brother. 

Whoever relieves a Muslim of some hardship, Allah will relieve him of one of the hardships of Qiyama. 

Whoever conceals [the fault of] another Muslim, Allah will conceal [his faults] in Qiyama."

Learning Adab and Imparting Adab

Even in the hardness and ill manners of others there is benefit for the slave of Allah. Dealing with them is a training in which there are many benefits. 

He must practice maintaining wisdom and patience in the face of their annoyances and transgressions.

This requires learning to "break" the self, learn humility and learning to suppress anger and rage seeking the reward of Allah. All of these benefits will be lost by one who isolates himself form the Muslims. The Prophet (sas) said:

"The strong is not the one who overpowers others. Rather, the strong one is the one who maintains control of himself in anger."

And note Allah's statement on the subject:

{Those who give in easy times and in hard times. And those who suppress their rage. And those who are forbearing with people. And Allah loves those who do good. (134)}

Islam provides the training to elevate the character to levels of wisdom, forbearance and fruitful and benefical interaction with others. 

One who learns Islam and does not mix with the Muslims is like one who spend his life training an animal but never rode it. 

The only benefit is that the animal will not bite him or kick him. Likewise, the isolated but learned Muslim will withold his harm from others and will not experience their harm, but his training is incomplete and has not born any fruit.

Companionship

Companionship is something needed by human beings. It can be something highly praiseworthy when one seeks the companionship of people of knowledge and piety from whomn they will benefit. 

In any case, companionship should be for some of the time with those whose companionship will not corrupt the remainder of your time.

Strive always for your conversations during such companionship to be regarding Islam.

Gaining Allah's Reward and Helping Others to Do So Relationships with other Muslims give many opportunities for thawaab from Allah Most High such as attending their funerals, visiting the sick and responding to invitations. 

Allah rewards all of these actions because they bring joy to the heart of the believers.

As for helping others to gain Allah's rewards, this is by having an open door to the Muslims so that they may come to give condolences, visit them when they are ill or congratulate them on some good fortune. 

All of these give those others opportunities for more reward from Allah.

Humility

You cannot practice humility if you isolate yourself. 

In fact, it is commonly so that arrogance was the cause of choosing isolation over intermingling in the first place.

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Culture Versus Islam
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Published: Jan.09.2007 @ 8:43 pm | Last edited: Jan.09.2007 @ 2:50 pm
Culture Versus Islam

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Culture Versus Islam

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Islam is a religion. But, to many ignorants, Islam is a culture. It is a practice handed down by their fathers, and their father's father before that. It is something they do out of habit rather than out of the education they have received. That is why the converts or the "Born Again Muslims", if I may be permitted to use this phrase, make better Muslims.

Converts learn the religion from scratch and throw away their old beliefs on becoming Muslims. The Born Again Muslims re-learn the religion and are able to differentiate between Islam and the ignorants AAdat, and are brave enough to reject what is un Islamic though they run the risk of being branded fanatics.

The majority of Muslims confuse between what is religion and what is culture. They take both as one and the same and, on many an occasion, practice religion as if it was part of the muslim culture, or adopt some of the old cultures thinking they are doing an Islamic thing.

Sometimes even the culture over-rides religion and they rush out to implement a cultural practice as if it would be UN Islamic in not doing so. Culture takes precedence over everything else and, if they miss one or two obligations in Islam, like praying or fasting, it does not matter as long as that so called "adat" has been safely implemented.

For example, they would spend hours dressing up a bride for a wedding ceremony. Never mind that thebride has to miss her Maghrib prayers because of this. Allowing her to do her Maghrib prayers would mean the preparations would be interrupted or delayed, not to mention her hair, which had been carefully set at great expense of time and money, would get all messed up.

The house would need to be cleaned and everything would need to be nicely set up in preparation for Eid preparation. This would mean they would have to miss the last day of fasting or else there would be no energy left for the great task ahead of them. Impressing the guests who would be visiting for Eid preparationis more important that fasting.

In other words, culture is so important that they would sacrifice their religion as long as the culture is protected. They would not sacrifice for Islam.

How did this come about? Islam is very specific and explicit. Islam is the ultimate and everything else comes later. How could, therefore, culture stand between the Muslim and his religion? Even more important, how could the Muslim get so confused that he could not differentiate between religion and culture and allow himself to practice Islam his way; religion as a culture.

In fact, you can still see aspects of Hindu culture in our so-called "Islamic" practices. Take the lighting of lanterns on the last seven nights before the end of Ramadan in some muslims. This is modeled after the Hindu religious celebration of Deepavali, the festival of the lights.

What about the wedding ceremony mentioned earlier? Very much a Hindu practice where the bride and bridegroom sit on a stage so the world can see them see and to receive the blessings of the crowd who sprinkle scented water and flowers on them.

Many acts the Indians do in the name of religion is not Islamic at all.

In fact, some are even contrary to religious beliefs; bida'ah or shirik; and compromise the principles of the Islamic faith. These practices are not only sinful but makes a mockery of the One God fundamental because that forbidden practice acknowledges the existence of other forces equally powerful.

For instance, take the practice of consulting mulla (for ganda taweez, magic). Most muslim believe in the powers of the mulla (for ganda taweez, magic). and many actually go to see them for assistance.

mulla (for ganda taweez, magic) are nothing but witch doctors. In the Western terminology "witches" are servants of the devil as they draw upon the powers of the forces of evil. The muslims swear by the power of the mulla (for ganda taweez, magic). rather than do their Hajat prayer to get their wishes fulfilled. mulla (for ganda taweez, magic) use the Koran, spirits of dead people, bones of humans, and so on, to "pray" for help.

It must be remembered that though the mulla (for ganda taweez, magic) uses the Koran it is not used for reciting the verses but as talismans or "tangkals". The Koran is not taken in its spirit or substance but in its physical form, as an object of magic.

Sometimes the verses are recited but only for "fixing things". The "client" may want the mulla (for ganda taweez, magic) to help them get a job promotion, a contract they have tendered for, the love of a woman or man, and other worldly desires. In extreme cases the mulla (for ganda taweez, magic) calls upon the "powers" of the Koran to harm an enemy or as a prevention, called "sekatan", from an enemy who is suspected of using another mulla (for ganda taweez, magic) to give this client bad luck or make him sick.

Islam, or the powers of Islam, is treated as something magical or mystical, and who better to call upon the magic of the Koran or the verses of the Koran than the black magic man, the mulla (for ganda taweez, magic). Of course, every mulla (for ganda taweez, magic) would claim he is doing things the Islamic way and that there is no shirik in what he is doing. This gives the Malay the feeling of security, that he is not offending God in his actions or creating an associate to God.

Many religious people, those well learned in Islam dare not speak out.

They realise that this is a very sensitive area to venture into. In fact, some of these religious people even contribute to the belief by themselves offering mystical services. The muslim believe that these religious people have a closeness to God due their "ulama" status and how better to reach God than through these people.

One reason why the muslims are so gullible may be because Islam was an "imported" religion.Todays' s muslims choose to be Muslims only when it suits them and revert to their old cultures and traditions freely.

Consider the concept of water and oil; they do not mix. Oil stays on top and does not contaminate the water below it. What we do not realize is, oil chokes life in the water by blocking the flow of oxygen.

In the same way, the belief in other forces other than Allah "kills" the fundamentals of Islam. Without this fundamental belief, their Islam is just as "dead" as the life in the water below the oil. It is time the religious authorities and the ulamas speak out. Re-education is required.

You are either a muslims(ignorants or a Muslim and, if to be a proper or good Muslim means we have to be less of a muslims (ignorants), than let it be so.


Weakness Among Muslim's
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Published: Jan.09.2007 @ 4:44 am

 

Weakness Among Muslim's

I struggled with this question for many months until I realized that many Muslims are Muslim in name only and an astounding percentage do not know, let alone practice, their religion.

The Muslim Ummah is weak because we as Muslims are weak.

In the West, the enemies of Islam have cleverly segmented country and religion. Muslims in the West are now faced with choosing one over the other. In this there is no decision. Some have opted to serve two masters; a choice that fails to serve either. The enemies of Islam are cunning indeed. They have further fragmented Muslims into categories, from moderates to extremists. There is no such thing in Islam. There is neither compulsion nor compromise in the requirements laid out for us in the Qur’an or the Sunnah.

The enemies of Islam have taken one of our most sacred of acts, namely Jihad and reduce its meaning to military aggression waged by radical Islamists which it is not. This has created more fear amongst Muslims and many of our brothers and sisters have distanced themselves from the actions of our Mujahideen as the result. Every Muslim is obligated to participate in the defense of the Muslim people wherever they are attacked.

But in same time, weakness of Muslim's does not only come from the Western's..

To many Muslim's as they enter Western contry's looses there faith and there strong Iman.

Then Some would ask why?

It is not the West, it lay upon One Self !

See clearly inside your self and jugde!

Why Are You Weak?

Why Do You Go For Making Sin?

Do You Not Fear Allah?

Ask Your Self What Is The Purpose For Your Life?

The Muslim Ummah is riddled with fear and suspicion which Allah has also warned us about.

With tactics well known to the enemies of Islam, Muslims are now pitted against each other when it is abundantly clear in the Quran and the Sunnah that it is a duty for Muslims to support their fellow Muslims wherever they are in the world.

Sorry To Say, But Our Muslim Ummah Is In A Sorry State!

Muslim's Killing Muslim's!

We See Alot Of Our Sunni Brother's And Sister's Figthing Against Us..

Welknown They Do Know, We Never Surrender Our Belief !

Look Around And Watch!

In The West, Most Sunni But Surely Also Shia Muslim's Has Changed Them Self From Being A True Beliver To A Weak Muslim!

I Meet Alot Of Muslim's, Who As They See Me..A Revert..Who Praticy Islam Within All...Are Surprized..And Then Tell Me How Proud I should Be Off My Self!

Funny Isnt It ?

Cause it is Muslim's Who Dont Praticy There Religion, Muslimah's Without Hijab, Muslim's Who Go For All The Forbidding Thing's..

And Then They Tell Me..A Revert..Be Proud!

Are They Feeling Good Inside?

I dont Think So!

Dont Tell Me...That the Reason for Rejecting Religion is The Western Life !

It is NOT true!

Sure West has alot to offer for a human wich may have lived in a Islamic Contry, but it shouldnt be a reason to change one self.

Faith, honesty and strong Iman Then One is On the Rigth Way!

Dont Tell Me, That You Dont Fear Allah?

Do You Know What Happen To You When Its Time To Face Allah?

Oh Fellow Muslim!

Get Back In Line and Serve Allah Swt as You Are Supossed To Do!

We will only be able to stop this aggression, an aggression that ultimately will come to each and every one of our doorsteps, if we rise to the status that Allah has called us to; by first becoming knowledgeable in our religion and then putting into action the prescribed methods that have been laid down for us.

Surely We Have A Duty To Attempt To !

As long as Muslims allow the enemies of Islam to shred the very fabric of our beliefs that pits brother against brother, and we ignore the obligations Allah has prescribed for us and remain ignorant of our deen (religion), our Ummah will remain weak and we will continue to be the target of aggression.

And when we as individuals come to the realization that man’s laws will always fail us and that only Gods laws can bring peace and harmony, then, and only then, we will make true progress. The solution lies in Islam. 

All praise is to Allah, we praise Him and seek His help and ask for His forgiveness, We seek refuge from the evils, which are in ourselves and the wicked in our actions, whoever Allah guides, none can misguide, For whoever Allah guides, there is none to misguide him. For whoever Allah sends astray, there is none to guide him. And I bear witness that there is no God but Allah alone Who has no partner and I bear witness that Mohammed is His slave and His messenger.

Peace and blessings be upon those who follow His guidance.

Aminah.alqaem.org

www.aminah.shiahosting.com



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