SABR
-an essential element in fulfilling our ubudiyyah to Allah (swt)
- Rasulullah (saws) said: Sabr is a source of light
- In the Quran it says: [And practice sabr, for you are under Our gaze] One of the early ulamah used to carry a parchment with this ayah on it in his pocket, and he looked at it constantly.
- Sabr is human; animals know nothing more than their basic needs and instincts, all they can do is react; humans have been endowed with reason which balances instinct. We go from wanting food as baby, play as a child, zinnah in adolescence, until we reach puberty and are endowed with some reason.. but reason is not enough, it is not alone sufficient as guidance, the 'aql (intellect) needs 'naql (revealation) "Descartes said I think therefore I am, Ghazali before him said I will therefore I am, I say: I perform sabr, therefore I am human" This deen is the completeness of our maturity and our humanity.
So what is sabr?
The steadfastness of the religious call over the call to passion- if the deen overcomes the nafs, this is sabr
Sabr is an UPHILL BATTLE- when we're going downhill we're losing energy, when we're going uphill we're gaining potential energy. In sabr, we are gaining "spiritual potential energy".
There are 2 kinds of sabr (or two ways we can perform sabr):
1) when something we desire happens to us, something we like, we exhibit sabr in controlling our selves, not going into excess, not transgressing the bounds set down for us by Allah(swt)
Abdur Rahmad ibn Auf said: We were tried by hard times and we showed sabr, but when we were tried in ease and excess, we failed.
Hadeeth: I do not fear for you poverty; I fear for you plentifulness of dunyaa, and it will destroy you as it had destroyed nations before you.
Quran: O you who believe, do not let your families and your wealth draw you away from the dhikr of Allah; and whosoever does that is indeed the loser.
2) Sabr in what we dislike. In 3 areas of life:
a.) sabru ala ta'aat: in obeying Allah (swt). sabr against our nafs who dislikes it, whether in spirituality or mundane, sabr before, during and after the act of obedience.
b.) sabru anil ma'asee: to show sabr against disobedience to Allah (swt). We are attracted to do injustice to others thinking we are doing justice to ourselves. We live in an environment that is dangerously attractive, we need to have patience, constancy, steadfastness = sabr.
c.) sabr andil ma'asid: to show sabr in times of calamity, adveristy, pain, whether physical or emotional. Everything that is in the capacity of an individual to change, he should- but have sabr in what you cannot. Not reciprocating harm is sabr.
Hadeeth: whenever a museebah (hardship) befalls you (and you show sabr) Allah (swt) atones for you some of your sins
Hadeeth: Allah (swt) atones some of our sins not only by physical endurance but by emotional ones as well
Sa'ad ibn Abi Waqqas (ra) asked the Prophet (saws) "Ya Rasulullah, who amongst people are the most tried (subject to hardships)?" Rasulullah (saws) said: The Anbiyyah (messengers of Allah) and after them the Salihoon (righteous) and then in accordance to your eman, taqwaah etc, there will be more hardships, not less. Every mu'min will be tried by difficulties in accordance (proportion) to their deen. If in this person's deen is solidity (their deen is deeply rooted) the balaa' will increase, to purify, cleanse, strenghten, elevate the person. And if in the deen in this person there is riqaa (weakness, thinness), then that persons balaa will be weakened, until the person walks on the earth cleansed of sins until they meet Allah.
What are the adaab of sabr?
1- once the calamity befalls us, we must show sabr immediately without delay.
A woman was in the cemetary, crying, mourning her love, when Rasulullah (saws) said to her "show sabr". She said, not knowing who he was "thats easy for you to say, you have not lost a loved one". When the companions told her who he was, she asked for forgiveness and rasulullah (saws) said: Sabr is to be shown at the beginning of hardship.
2- al-itirjaa': to say immediately, sincerely, from the heart: "Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhee raji'uun" -Verily from Allah we come and to Him we return
3- the tongue and the senses do not act violently - use them correctly, don't get caught up in the pain of the moment
4- Hussnul sabr- sabrun jameel- the highest level, the most beautiful sabr
Sabr can be categorized into 3 levels:
1- Tarkus sabraa: the lowest level- when one does not complain but inside dislikes what's happening to them
2- Ar-ridhaa-bil-beelah: no complaint, to show satisfaction with the balaa (hardship), because they have yaqeen (certainty) that Allah only does to the 'abd what is best for them
3- Ash-shukr-alal-beelah: to have ridhaa (satisfaction) and to be grateful to Allah for the hardship because that person has yaqeen that this is to elevate his spiritual status- looks at the consequence, not the immediate event we are taught sabrun jameel in the story of yaqub and yusuf (as)
Ali (ra) said: Of the realization of the Majesty of Allah, and of knowledge of the right Allah (swt) has on His creation, is that when one is befallen with a calamity, one does not complain, does not even mention what has befallen him.
An 'abd should feel ashamed to describe the pain, we are complaining about the Creator to the creation?
ibn Qays (a tabi') said: I lost my eyesite 40 years ago, I have never told anyone.
an ulumah (didn't get the name): "Whosoever complains about a calamity that has befallen him to other than Allah, such an individual would never find the sweetness of ta'aa (obedience to Allah (swt)) in the heart"
How to attain sabr?
The cure to any disease of the heart (arrogance, anger, lack of hayaa)
1- ILM: brings desire and want to change, use the ilm the teacher conveys to you! brings about hazm- energy, resolve to change
2- AMAL: take it into everyday life, in your actions Qat'al asbaab- severing the ways and avenues to bad deeds. example: lowering the gaze for zinnah. for every haraam avenue, there is a halaal alternative.
No pain, no gain- condition your nafs and your qalb, or they will condition you
Work hard on uprooting the weeds of passion, disobedience and sin. Sow the seeds in your heart of the will to change and sincerity. Let the rain be the mercy and forgiveness of Allah purifying the land, our hearts.
The best door from which we can enter the majesty of Allah, is humility.
1- Always be conscious in our hearts and minds of Allah's nimaah
2- Always be conscious of our weaknesses, the sins we have committed. Have faqar- the opposite of pride, self-reliance, self-interest..
Qur'an: "InnaAllah ma'as sabireen: Verily Allah is WITH those who have sabr."
Ya Allah, make us of those who have sabr, and grant us Your mercy and Your forgiveness.
Ameen.
Wednesday 23 March 2011
Umar bin Khattab (ra) left to people 18 statements of wisdom:
Asalaam alaikum wrt wb,
The following are notes from a class on hikmah, may Allah (SWT) reward the student (who wishes to be anonymous) for providing us with these notes. Ameen!
* Umar bin Khattab (ra) left to people 18 statements of wisdom:
1- When someone transgresses upon your rights (and in doing so disobeys Allah) the way to 'revenge' is to obey Allah in dealing with him. (use reason/rules instead of anger)
2- When something comes to you from your brother, accept it as something good, unless you have overwhelming evidence against it. (hush dhann- thinking good of people)
3- Don't take the word of a Muslim as ill. When there is a way of seeing it positively, take it that way. Find one good interpretation out of 10.
4- Avoid positions that will make others doubt you. (ie disobey Allah publicly, hang out with ppl who don't care, at all time and places)
5- Do not blame others. When you have a secret, its under your control, but when you tell someone else, that control is not yours anymore. People fall under different factors and pressures, so do not blame others.
6- Always take care of the brothers and sisters of truth. Be with them always. They will protect you. They are always a beautiful ornament. In good times you will have ease, and in time of difficulty, you will have protection and support.
7- Be strict and careful in choosing your friends.
8- Always be with the truth even against your own life.
9- Don't indulge in that which is meaningless. Every moment of our life is meaningful- use it to worship Allah subhanawat'ala
10- Don't ask about that which didn't happen. You already have enough to deal with, be practical, deal with immediate problems not the future of ghayb.
11- Don't ask for your need to be fulfilled from someone who wouldn't like your need to be fulfilled. Try to be self-sufficient as individuals and as an ummah, muslims of early generation were poor but didn't lower themselves. Always be with dignity.
12- Don't be neglectful or careless in swearing by the name of Allah. Otherwise, Allah will bring punishment for you.
13- Don't be in the company of fajaar (those who commit major sins openly and don't care) You WILL be affected. Your own behavior changes little by little. Be in the company of people who remind you of Allah.
14- Be aware of your enemy. Be careful, alert, and prepared.
15- Remember death. Visit the graveyards, try to be in kushuu'. If you can't cry, force yourself to. Try to be humble in front of the Creator, the One who gives life and takes it away.
16- Be HUMBLE in acts of obedience to Allah. No one will protect us but Allah. Seek protection from Allah in Allah.
17- Seek tawbaah. Immediately, be determined, have resolve.
18- Consult in your matters those who have kashiyaah (fear of Allah and always conscious of Him), because those who have kashiyaah are the ones that truly have ilm.
* Ibraheen ibn Adham was approached by a man who wanted to stop his sins. He asked for advice that will help him realize the consequences of his actions. He was told:
If you want to disobey Allah, you can, in 5 cases:
1- If you want to disobey Allah, then don't eat from His rizq (provision.)
The man said: Then where am I to eat when every provision is from Allah?
Ibraheem said: O such a person! Is it honorable and good to disobey Allah, and eat from His provision?
The man said: give me the second one.
2- If you want to disobey Allah, then do not live on Allah's property.
The man said: Then where am I to live if not on Allah's property?
Ibraheem said: Is it good then, to eat from His provision, live on His property, and disobey Him?
The man said: Give me the third one.
3- If you want to disobey Allah, then disobey Him in a place where He will not see you.
The man said: How am I to do this when He not only sees what others see, but what is in the hearts?
Ibraheem said: o you such a person, how do you eat from His provision, live on His property, and disobey Him openly?
The man said: Give me the fourth one.
4- If you want to disobey Allah, when the Angel of Death comes to you, tell him to come back later, after you repent.
The man said: He will not accept this from me!
Ibraheem said: O you such a person, when you cannot delay death, how do you expect a savior?
The man said: Give me the fifth.
5- If you want to disobey Allah, then after death comes to you, on the Day of Judgement, when the Angels of Hell come to drag you into Hell, refuse to go with them.
The man said: They will not accept that from me!
Ibraheem said: Then how do you expect to be saved?
The man said: Enough! Enough! I seek forgiveness in Allah and make tawbaah! AstaghfirAllah wa i'tubuu ilayk!
He made sincere tawbaah, and left all his acts of disobedience, and he died in such a state.
The following are notes from a class on hikmah, may Allah (SWT) reward the student (who wishes to be anonymous) for providing us with these notes. Ameen!
* Umar bin Khattab (ra) left to people 18 statements of wisdom:
1- When someone transgresses upon your rights (and in doing so disobeys Allah) the way to 'revenge' is to obey Allah in dealing with him. (use reason/rules instead of anger)
2- When something comes to you from your brother, accept it as something good, unless you have overwhelming evidence against it. (hush dhann- thinking good of people)
3- Don't take the word of a Muslim as ill. When there is a way of seeing it positively, take it that way. Find one good interpretation out of 10.
4- Avoid positions that will make others doubt you. (ie disobey Allah publicly, hang out with ppl who don't care, at all time and places)
5- Do not blame others. When you have a secret, its under your control, but when you tell someone else, that control is not yours anymore. People fall under different factors and pressures, so do not blame others.
6- Always take care of the brothers and sisters of truth. Be with them always. They will protect you. They are always a beautiful ornament. In good times you will have ease, and in time of difficulty, you will have protection and support.
7- Be strict and careful in choosing your friends.
8- Always be with the truth even against your own life.
9- Don't indulge in that which is meaningless. Every moment of our life is meaningful- use it to worship Allah subhanawat'ala
10- Don't ask about that which didn't happen. You already have enough to deal with, be practical, deal with immediate problems not the future of ghayb.
11- Don't ask for your need to be fulfilled from someone who wouldn't like your need to be fulfilled. Try to be self-sufficient as individuals and as an ummah, muslims of early generation were poor but didn't lower themselves. Always be with dignity.
12- Don't be neglectful or careless in swearing by the name of Allah. Otherwise, Allah will bring punishment for you.
13- Don't be in the company of fajaar (those who commit major sins openly and don't care) You WILL be affected. Your own behavior changes little by little. Be in the company of people who remind you of Allah.
14- Be aware of your enemy. Be careful, alert, and prepared.
15- Remember death. Visit the graveyards, try to be in kushuu'. If you can't cry, force yourself to. Try to be humble in front of the Creator, the One who gives life and takes it away.
16- Be HUMBLE in acts of obedience to Allah. No one will protect us but Allah. Seek protection from Allah in Allah.
17- Seek tawbaah. Immediately, be determined, have resolve.
18- Consult in your matters those who have kashiyaah (fear of Allah and always conscious of Him), because those who have kashiyaah are the ones that truly have ilm.
* Ibraheen ibn Adham was approached by a man who wanted to stop his sins. He asked for advice that will help him realize the consequences of his actions. He was told:
If you want to disobey Allah, you can, in 5 cases:
1- If you want to disobey Allah, then don't eat from His rizq (provision.)
The man said: Then where am I to eat when every provision is from Allah?
Ibraheem said: O such a person! Is it honorable and good to disobey Allah, and eat from His provision?
The man said: give me the second one.
2- If you want to disobey Allah, then do not live on Allah's property.
The man said: Then where am I to live if not on Allah's property?
Ibraheem said: Is it good then, to eat from His provision, live on His property, and disobey Him?
The man said: Give me the third one.
3- If you want to disobey Allah, then disobey Him in a place where He will not see you.
The man said: How am I to do this when He not only sees what others see, but what is in the hearts?
Ibraheem said: o you such a person, how do you eat from His provision, live on His property, and disobey Him openly?
The man said: Give me the fourth one.
4- If you want to disobey Allah, when the Angel of Death comes to you, tell him to come back later, after you repent.
The man said: He will not accept this from me!
Ibraheem said: O you such a person, when you cannot delay death, how do you expect a savior?
The man said: Give me the fifth.
5- If you want to disobey Allah, then after death comes to you, on the Day of Judgement, when the Angels of Hell come to drag you into Hell, refuse to go with them.
The man said: They will not accept that from me!
Ibraheem said: Then how do you expect to be saved?
The man said: Enough! Enough! I seek forgiveness in Allah and make tawbaah! AstaghfirAllah wa i'tubuu ilayk!
He made sincere tawbaah, and left all his acts of disobedience, and he died in such a state.
TREE OF IMAN
TREE OF IMAN
by Umm Abdullah
from a lecture by Dawud Adib
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
If someone gives you a plant to take care of..how do you think you will do it? Wouldn't you try your best to not to let that plant die? And of course, to do that you are going to make sure that all the things that plant need, you provide it and keep it away form all the harmful things.
At the same time you will try to find out about the basic elements that plant is consisted of and the basic things those elements need to grow properly.
Believe me or not but all of us have one, very delicate and at the same time very strong tree to take care of given to us by our Lord.
Allah (SWT) has given us this tree that is planted in our hearts, called "shajarat-ul-Iman" (Tree of Iman).
Allah (swt) describes that tree in Quran:
"Have you not seen how Allah coined a similitude (of parable) a good word like a good tree, the root of that tree is firmly established in the ground and the branches reach the heavens."
At another place in Quran Allah (swt) said:
"(this particular tree by the permission of its Lord), gives fruits (all kinds of fruits) anytime Allah (swt) wants it to give fruits.
Allah (swt) also said:
"Allah coin similitude for the human beings (for you and I), so that perhaps we may reflect (we may think)."
Science say there are trees in other plants than earth ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Allah (swt) created seven heavens and earth other than this planet. Some people say that there are trees and some say there are not. There is proof in Quran and Sunnah that there are trees in Jannah (heaven). One of them is called "Toobaa", the tree for the "ghurab'a" (strangers). The shade of that tree is one month journey and this is where the believers will take their clothes from.
Most Important Tree in this World: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The most important tree in this dunya (world) is the Tree of Iman (shajarat-ul-Iman). The tree that Allah (swt) has planted in our hearts. The tree that we all should be worrying about day and night. We all must know what that tree of Iman is made of so that we can take good care of it.
What Does the Tree of Iman Have: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Almost all the trees that Allah (swt) has created/originated, almost all of them have three very basic things:
1. Root (O'rooq)
The roots of the most important tree on this earth are:
a) Knowledge (I'lm)
b) Certainty (Yaqeen)
The tree of Iman is the basic belief of Islam
"La ilaha illal lah"
"There is no God worthy of worship except Allah (swt)"
So the root for us of the Tree of Iman, is the KNOWLEDGE of the meaning of "la ilaha illallah". It covers every single aspect of our life. When we know that there is no God other then Allah (swt), we totally surrender to Him alone and we take everything that He gave us through the Quran and the Sunnah of Rasul of Allah (saw).
The other half of the root of this tree is the certainty, meaning the certainty of everything what "la ilaha illallah" brings.
When implementing Islam in our lives, or when accepting a matter which we were not aware of before, we should do it with firm belief and certainty, as long as it is from the Quran and the authentic Sunnah of Rasul and his Companions.
2) Trunk: (Saaq)
The tree of Iman, like the other trees, also has a trunk, which is Purity of Intention: (al-Ikhlas)
We must have the purity of intention for our tree to be firm and unshakable and immovable.
Abdullah Ibn Sahl at-tuzkuri (ra) (scholar from the taba'een) was asked:
"What is al-Iman?", he said:
"Iman is statement, is action, is nyyah (intention) and is Sunnah. If it is a statement without actions then it is Kufr (disbelief), if it is a statement and action with out intention then it is Nifaq (hypocrisy), if it is a statement, action and intention without the Sunnah, then it is Bid'ah (innovation)."
To keep a healthy trunk of our tree, we must have a pure intention of our actions. Our every righteous deed is divided into two parts. The first half of a righteous deed is the purity of intention. The nyyah has to be pure for the pleasure of Allah ONLY!
3) Branches & Fruits:
This tree should also has branches and fruits. And these are:
a) Righteous deeds
b) Honorable/Noble Character
At several places in Quran, Allah (SWT) has distinguished the people of Jannah from the people of Hell as Indeed those who believed and did righteous deeds....
Those people who believed and did righteous deeds have also been given the glad tidings of Jannah at several places in Quran:
Every righteous deed consists of two parts. First part is the purity of intention (for the sake of Allah only!). Second half of the righteous deed is that the action has to be in conformed with Shariah (Quran and Sunnah of Rasul (SAW) and the Companions(May Allah be pleased with them)). If the action is not conformed with Shariah, it is not considered a righteous deed!
When a tree has firm roots and healthy trunk and branches, it automatically produces good fruits. Similarly, when we establish firm roots of Iman in our heart and keep healthy trunk and branches of the tree the fruits will prosper. If we have the knowledge of our deen and certainty of whatever knowledge we have, and we do righteous deeds with pure intentions, we will automatically develop an honorable and noble character.
Things that will Make Our Tree Die: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1)Kufr:
If we allow kufr to come into our tree, it will destroy the tree.
2) Shirk:
If we allow shirk to come into our tree, it will also destroy the tree.
3) Bid'ah:
If we allow Bid'ah (innovations) of all types to come into our tree, it will demolish our tree. Our tree will become yellow, our tree will become dry and our tree will eventually die!
Note: Muslims nowadays are involved in so many "religious practices" thinking that they are pleasing Allah (swt), though in reality they are getting themselves involved either in bid'ahs or sometimes even to the extant of shirks. Muslims, intentionally or unintentionally, either add or remove stuff from how a certain act was originally practiced by our pious predecessors and hence making it a bid'ah. And since the act was not practiced according to the "Shari'ah", it will not be considered a righteous deed.
To avoid from getting ourselves involved in these dangerous things, it is extremely important to have the "knowledge" of the deen and to refer back to our pious predecessors in every single thing we do or say.
What is AL-Iman: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Al-Iman is:
1) Belief:
Iman is a belief in our hearts. It is to have a firm belief of "la illah illallah" in our hearts and all the thing that it brings. Every thing that we find from Quran and Sunnah, we must have a sincere and firm belief on that without having any doubts.
2)Statement:
Iman is a statement by our tongue. We must state "la illaha illallah" by our tongues. Meaning what ever believes we have, we cannot just keep them in our hearts, but we must say them out.
3) Actions:
Iman is to carry out our believes and our statements by our bodily limbs. After believing in "la illaha illallah" and stating it, we must imply it in our actions. And the way we imply "la illaha illallah" in our actions is by modifying our every action and deed according to the Quran and
Sunnah of Rasul and our pious predecessors. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A general example of the above could be wearing hijab. If one has a firm belief in Allah (swt) and whatever He revealed, will definitely believe that wearing hijab is a command of Allah and it is mandatory. Then only believing is not enough, we must have to admit by stating by our tongues the fact that hijab is necessary and inform other people about it in a nice pleasing way (not in a displeasing or complaining manner). But still our Iman is not completed until we start wearing it ourselves.
To think that Iman is in our hearts only, is one of the tricks of Iblis (satan). We shouldn't be fooled by the shaytans (satan) of the Ins wal Jin (Humans and Jinns) by thinking that Iman is in our chests only and as long as we have a firm belief, our Iman is completed Rather we HAVE to show our believes by our statements and by our actions
Highest and Lowest of Iman: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Rasul of Allah (saw) said:
"Iman has 70 branches. And the highest of al-Iman is the statement "la illaha illallah" (It is the most sublime, the most magnificent and the most superior of all Iman). The lowest of the Iman is to remove some harmful thing from the street. And modesty is a part of al-Iman."
Iman Wears Out: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~
We all go through high and low levels of Iman. As Rasul of Allah told us:"al-Iman wears out in each and everyone of you and me like a "thaub" (garment) wears out (like our clothes wears out...and they become shabby eventually. Iman wears out like that "thaub").
So Rasul of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) advised us (since our Iman wears out) "So all of you Muslims, should ask Allah (swt) to RENEW the Iman in our hearts."
by Umm Abdullah
from a lecture by Dawud Adib
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
If someone gives you a plant to take care of..how do you think you will do it? Wouldn't you try your best to not to let that plant die? And of course, to do that you are going to make sure that all the things that plant need, you provide it and keep it away form all the harmful things.
At the same time you will try to find out about the basic elements that plant is consisted of and the basic things those elements need to grow properly.
Believe me or not but all of us have one, very delicate and at the same time very strong tree to take care of given to us by our Lord.
Allah (SWT) has given us this tree that is planted in our hearts, called "shajarat-ul-Iman" (Tree of Iman).
Allah (swt) describes that tree in Quran:
"Have you not seen how Allah coined a similitude (of parable) a good word like a good tree, the root of that tree is firmly established in the ground and the branches reach the heavens."
At another place in Quran Allah (swt) said:
"(this particular tree by the permission of its Lord), gives fruits (all kinds of fruits) anytime Allah (swt) wants it to give fruits.
Allah (swt) also said:
"Allah coin similitude for the human beings (for you and I), so that perhaps we may reflect (we may think)."
Science say there are trees in other plants than earth ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Allah (swt) created seven heavens and earth other than this planet. Some people say that there are trees and some say there are not. There is proof in Quran and Sunnah that there are trees in Jannah (heaven). One of them is called "Toobaa", the tree for the "ghurab'a" (strangers). The shade of that tree is one month journey and this is where the believers will take their clothes from.
Most Important Tree in this World: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The most important tree in this dunya (world) is the Tree of Iman (shajarat-ul-Iman). The tree that Allah (swt) has planted in our hearts. The tree that we all should be worrying about day and night. We all must know what that tree of Iman is made of so that we can take good care of it.
What Does the Tree of Iman Have: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Almost all the trees that Allah (swt) has created/originated, almost all of them have three very basic things:
1. Root (O'rooq)
The roots of the most important tree on this earth are:
a) Knowledge (I'lm)
b) Certainty (Yaqeen)
The tree of Iman is the basic belief of Islam
"La ilaha illal lah"
"There is no God worthy of worship except Allah (swt)"
So the root for us of the Tree of Iman, is the KNOWLEDGE of the meaning of "la ilaha illallah". It covers every single aspect of our life. When we know that there is no God other then Allah (swt), we totally surrender to Him alone and we take everything that He gave us through the Quran and the Sunnah of Rasul of Allah (saw).
The other half of the root of this tree is the certainty, meaning the certainty of everything what "la ilaha illallah" brings.
When implementing Islam in our lives, or when accepting a matter which we were not aware of before, we should do it with firm belief and certainty, as long as it is from the Quran and the authentic Sunnah of Rasul and his Companions.
2) Trunk: (Saaq)
The tree of Iman, like the other trees, also has a trunk, which is Purity of Intention: (al-Ikhlas)
We must have the purity of intention for our tree to be firm and unshakable and immovable.
Abdullah Ibn Sahl at-tuzkuri (ra) (scholar from the taba'een) was asked:
"What is al-Iman?", he said:
"Iman is statement, is action, is nyyah (intention) and is Sunnah. If it is a statement without actions then it is Kufr (disbelief), if it is a statement and action with out intention then it is Nifaq (hypocrisy), if it is a statement, action and intention without the Sunnah, then it is Bid'ah (innovation)."
To keep a healthy trunk of our tree, we must have a pure intention of our actions. Our every righteous deed is divided into two parts. The first half of a righteous deed is the purity of intention. The nyyah has to be pure for the pleasure of Allah ONLY!
3) Branches & Fruits:
This tree should also has branches and fruits. And these are:
a) Righteous deeds
b) Honorable/Noble Character
At several places in Quran, Allah (SWT) has distinguished the people of Jannah from the people of Hell as Indeed those who believed and did righteous deeds....
Those people who believed and did righteous deeds have also been given the glad tidings of Jannah at several places in Quran:
Every righteous deed consists of two parts. First part is the purity of intention (for the sake of Allah only!). Second half of the righteous deed is that the action has to be in conformed with Shariah (Quran and Sunnah of Rasul (SAW) and the Companions(May Allah be pleased with them)). If the action is not conformed with Shariah, it is not considered a righteous deed!
When a tree has firm roots and healthy trunk and branches, it automatically produces good fruits. Similarly, when we establish firm roots of Iman in our heart and keep healthy trunk and branches of the tree the fruits will prosper. If we have the knowledge of our deen and certainty of whatever knowledge we have, and we do righteous deeds with pure intentions, we will automatically develop an honorable and noble character.
Things that will Make Our Tree Die: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1)Kufr:
If we allow kufr to come into our tree, it will destroy the tree.
2) Shirk:
If we allow shirk to come into our tree, it will also destroy the tree.
3) Bid'ah:
If we allow Bid'ah (innovations) of all types to come into our tree, it will demolish our tree. Our tree will become yellow, our tree will become dry and our tree will eventually die!
Note: Muslims nowadays are involved in so many "religious practices" thinking that they are pleasing Allah (swt), though in reality they are getting themselves involved either in bid'ahs or sometimes even to the extant of shirks. Muslims, intentionally or unintentionally, either add or remove stuff from how a certain act was originally practiced by our pious predecessors and hence making it a bid'ah. And since the act was not practiced according to the "Shari'ah", it will not be considered a righteous deed.
To avoid from getting ourselves involved in these dangerous things, it is extremely important to have the "knowledge" of the deen and to refer back to our pious predecessors in every single thing we do or say.
What is AL-Iman: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Al-Iman is:
1) Belief:
Iman is a belief in our hearts. It is to have a firm belief of "la illah illallah" in our hearts and all the thing that it brings. Every thing that we find from Quran and Sunnah, we must have a sincere and firm belief on that without having any doubts.
2)Statement:
Iman is a statement by our tongue. We must state "la illaha illallah" by our tongues. Meaning what ever believes we have, we cannot just keep them in our hearts, but we must say them out.
3) Actions:
Iman is to carry out our believes and our statements by our bodily limbs. After believing in "la illaha illallah" and stating it, we must imply it in our actions. And the way we imply "la illaha illallah" in our actions is by modifying our every action and deed according to the Quran and
Sunnah of Rasul and our pious predecessors. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A general example of the above could be wearing hijab. If one has a firm belief in Allah (swt) and whatever He revealed, will definitely believe that wearing hijab is a command of Allah and it is mandatory. Then only believing is not enough, we must have to admit by stating by our tongues the fact that hijab is necessary and inform other people about it in a nice pleasing way (not in a displeasing or complaining manner). But still our Iman is not completed until we start wearing it ourselves.
To think that Iman is in our hearts only, is one of the tricks of Iblis (satan). We shouldn't be fooled by the shaytans (satan) of the Ins wal Jin (Humans and Jinns) by thinking that Iman is in our chests only and as long as we have a firm belief, our Iman is completed Rather we HAVE to show our believes by our statements and by our actions
Highest and Lowest of Iman: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Rasul of Allah (saw) said:
"Iman has 70 branches. And the highest of al-Iman is the statement "la illaha illallah" (It is the most sublime, the most magnificent and the most superior of all Iman). The lowest of the Iman is to remove some harmful thing from the street. And modesty is a part of al-Iman."
Iman Wears Out: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~
We all go through high and low levels of Iman. As Rasul of Allah told us:"al-Iman wears out in each and everyone of you and me like a "thaub" (garment) wears out (like our clothes wears out...and they become shabby eventually. Iman wears out like that "thaub").
So Rasul of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) advised us (since our Iman wears out) "So all of you Muslims, should ask Allah (swt) to RENEW the Iman in our hearts."
POLYTHEISM AND DISBELIEF
POLYTHEISM AND DISBELIEF
Salvation of all mankind from the greatest sin against Allah
(Shirk and Kufr i.e. polytheism and disbelief) I consider it essential to mention here some details of the greatest sin which will not be forgiven by Allah. This unpardonable sin is Shirk
Shirk implies ascribing partners to Allah or ascribing divine attributes to others besides Allah and believing that the source of power, harm and blessings comes from another besides Allah.
Almighty Allah says:
"Verily, Allah forgives not that partners should be set up with Him in worship, but He forgives except that (anything else) to whom He pleases, and whoever sets up partners with Allah in worship, he has indeed invented a tremendous sin."(V. 4:48).
Almighty Allah says:
"Then when the Trumpet is blown, there will be no kinship among them that Day, nor will they ask of one another.
"Then those whose scales (of good deeds) are heavy, - these! they are the successful.
"And those whose scales (of good deeds) are light, - they are those who lose their ownselves; in Hell will they abide."
"The Fire will burn their faces, and they will grin with disfigured lips (disfigured)."
"(It will be said) 'Were not My Verses (this Qur'ân) recited to you and then you used to deny them?'
"They will say: 'Our Lord! Our wretchedness overcame us and we were (an) erring people.
"Our Lord! Bring us out of this; if ever we return (to evil) then indeed we shall be Zâlimûn (polytheists, oppressors, unjust, and wrongdoers etc.).'
"He (Allah) will say: 'Remain you in it with ignominy! And speak you not to Me!' (V. 23:101-108).
"And whoever invokes (or worships) besides Allah, any other îlâh (god), of whom he has no proof, then his reckoning is only with his Lord. Surely! Al-Kafirûn (disbelievers in Allah and in the Oneness of Allah, polytheists, pagans, idolaters, etc.) will not be successful." (V. 23:117).
ASH-SHIRK POLYTHEISM AND ITS VARIOUS MANIFESTATIONS
Definition: Shirk basically is polytheism, i.e., the worship of others along with Allah. It also implies attributing divine attributes to any other besides Allah. It particularly implies associating partners in worship with Allah or to believe that the source of power, harm or blessings is from others besides Allah.
Types: There are three types of Shirk, namely:
(1) Ash-Shirk-al-Akbar, i.e. major Shirk
(2) Ash-Shirk-al-Asghar, i.e. minor Shirk
(3) Ash-Shirk-al-Khafi, i.e. inconspicuous Shirk.
Manifestations: (1) Ash-Shirk-al-Akbar (The major Shirk): The major and serious polytheistic form, it has four aspects:
(a) Shirk-ad-Du'â, i.e. invocation.This aspect implies invoking, supplicating or praying to other deities besides Allah.
Almighty Allah says:
"And when they embark on a ships they invoke Allah, making their Faith pure for Him only, but when He brings them safely to land, behold, they give a share of their worship to others," (V.29:65)
(b) Shirk-al-Niyyah wal-Iradah wal-Qasd. This aspect implies inten-tions, purpose and determination in acts of worship or religious deeds not for the sake of Allah but directed towards other deities.
Almighty Allah says:
"Whosoever desires the life of the world and its glitter, to them We shall pay in full (the wages of) their deeds therein, and they will have no diminution therein. They are those for whom there is nothing in the Hereafter but Fire; and vain are the deeds they did therein. And of no effect is that which they used to do."(V. 11:15,16)
(c) Shirk-at-Tâ'a. This aspect implies rendering obedience to any authority against the Order of Allah.
Almighty Allah says:
"They (Jews and Christians) took their Rabbis and their monks to be their lords besides Allah (by obeying them in things which they made lawful or unlawful according to their own desires without being ordered by Allah), and (they also took as their lord) Messiah, son of Maryam (Mary), while they (Jews and Christians) were commanded (in the Torah and the Gospel) to worship none but One Ilâh (God i.e., Allah), Lâ ilâha illâ Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He). Praise and Glory be to Him, (far above is He) from having the partners they associate (with Him)." (V.9:31).
Once, while Allah's Messenger SAW was reciting the above Verse, 'Adi bin Hatim said, "O Allah's Prophet! They do not worship them (rabbis and monks)." Allah's Messenger said, "They certainly do. They (i.e. Rabbis and monks) made legal things illegal, and illegal things legal, and they (i.e. Jews and Christians) followed them; and by doing so they really worshipped them."(Narrated by Ahmad, At-Tirmidhi, and Ibn Jarir). (Tafsir At-Tabari, Vol.10, Page No. 114).
(d) Shirk-al-Mahabbah. This implies showing the love which is due to Allah Alone, to others than Him.
Almighty Allah says:
"And of mankind are some who take (for worship) others besides Allah as rivals (to Allah). They love them as they love Allah. But those who believe, love Allah more (than anything else). If only those who do wrong could see, when they will see the torment, that all power belongs to Allah and that Allah is Severe in punishment." (V. 2:165)
(2) Ash-Shirk-al-Asghar Ar-Riyâ' (The minor Shirk, i.e. acts performed to show off). Any act of worship or any religious deed done in order to gain praise, fame or for worldly purposes, falls under this minor form.
Almighty Allah says:
"Say (O Muhammad SAW ) : 'I am only a man like you, it has been inspired to me that your Ilâh (God) is One Ilâh (God i.e Allah). So whoever hopes for the meeting with his Lord, let him work righteousness and associate none as a partner in the worship of his Lord.' " (V. 18:110)
(3) Ash-Shirk-al-Khafi (The inconspicuous Shirk). This type implies being inwardly dissatisfied with the inevitable condition that has been ordained for one by Allah; conscientiously lamenting that had you done or not done such and such or had you approached such and such you would have had a better status, etc.
The Noble Prophet Muhammad SAW said:
"Ash-Shirk-al-Khafi in the Muslim nation is more inconspicuous than the creeping of black ant on black rock in the pitch-darkness of the night." And this inconspicuous Shirk is expiated by saying thrice the following sentences within a day and a night: "O Allah! I take Your refuge from that I should ascribe anything as partner in Your worship, being conscious of that, and I beg Your pardon for that sin which I am not aware of."
AL-KUFR-DISBELIEF AND ITS VARIOUS MANIFESTATIONS
Kufr is basically disbelief in any of the articles of Faith in Islam.
The articles of Faith are: To believe in -
(1) Allah,
(2) His angels,
(3) His Messengers,
(4) His revealed Books,
(5) The Day of Resurrection, and
(6) Al-Qadar, Divine Preordainments (Fate i.e. whatever Allah SWT has ordained must come to pass).
There are two aspects of disbelief:
(1). The major disbelief (Al-Kufr-al-Akbar): This aspect excludes one completely from the fold of Islam. There are five types (of this major disbelief):-
(a) Kufr-at-Takdhîb. This implies disbelieving the divine truth or denying of any of the articles of Faith.
Almighty Allah says:
"Then who does more wrong than one who utters a lie against Allah and denies the truth [this Qur'ân, the Prophet (Muhammad SAW), the Islamic Monotheism, the Resurrection, and the reward or punishment according to good or evil deeds], when it comes to him. Is there not in Hell an abode for the disbelievers? " (V. 39:32)
(b) Kufr-al-Ibâ' wat-Takabbur ma'at-Tasdîq. This implies rejection and pride to submit to Allah's Commandments after conviction of their truth.
Almighty Allah says:
"And (remember) when We said to the angels: 'Prostrate yourself before Adam.' And they prostrated except Iblis, he refused and was proud and was one of the disbelievers (disobedient to Allah)." (V. 2:34).
(c) Kufr-ash-Shak waz-Zan. This implies doubting or lacking of conviction in the six articles of Faith.
Almighty Allah says:
"And he went into his garden while in a state (of pride and disbelief) unjust to himself. He said: 'I think not that this will ever perish. And I think not the Hour will ever come, and if indeed I am brought back to my Lord (on the Day of Resurrection) I surely shall find better than this when I return to Him.' His companion said to him during the talk with him: 'Do you disbelieve in Him Who created you out of dust (i.e. your father Adam), then out of Nutfah (mixed semen drops of male and female discharge), then fashioned you into a man? But as for my part (I believe) that He is Allah, my Lord, and none shall I associate as partner with my Lord.' " (V.18:3538)
(d) Kufr-al-I'râd. This implies turning away from the truth knowingly or deviating from the obvious signs which Allah has revealed.
Almighty Allah says:
"We created not the heavens and the earth and all that is between them except with truth and for an appointed term. But those who disbelieve turn away from that whereof they are warned." (V.46:3)
(e) Kufr-an-Nifâq. This implies hypocritical disbelief.
Almighty Allah says:
"They have made their oaths a screen (for their hypocrisy). Thus they hinder (men) from the Path of Allah. Verily, evil is what they used to do. That is because they believed, then disbelieved, therefore their hearts are sealed, so they understand not." (V.63:2-3)
(2) The minor disbelief (Al-Kufr-al-Asghar): This aspect of disbelief does not exclude one from the fold of Islam. It is also termed Kufr-an-Ni'mah. This implies disbelief manifesting itself in ungratefulness for Allah's Blessings or Favours.
Almighty Allah says:
'And Allah puts forward the example of a township (Makka), that dwelt secure and well-content; its provision coming to it in abundance from every place, but it (its people) denied the Favours of Allah (with ungratefulness). So Allah made it taste the extreme of hunger (famine) and fear, because of that (evil, i.e. denying Prophet Muhammad SAW ) which they (its people) used to do." (V.16:112).
Salvation of all mankind from the greatest sin against Allah
(Shirk and Kufr i.e. polytheism and disbelief) I consider it essential to mention here some details of the greatest sin which will not be forgiven by Allah. This unpardonable sin is Shirk
Shirk implies ascribing partners to Allah or ascribing divine attributes to others besides Allah and believing that the source of power, harm and blessings comes from another besides Allah.
Almighty Allah says:
"Verily, Allah forgives not that partners should be set up with Him in worship, but He forgives except that (anything else) to whom He pleases, and whoever sets up partners with Allah in worship, he has indeed invented a tremendous sin."(V. 4:48).
Almighty Allah says:
"Then when the Trumpet is blown, there will be no kinship among them that Day, nor will they ask of one another.
"Then those whose scales (of good deeds) are heavy, - these! they are the successful.
"And those whose scales (of good deeds) are light, - they are those who lose their ownselves; in Hell will they abide."
"The Fire will burn their faces, and they will grin with disfigured lips (disfigured)."
"(It will be said) 'Were not My Verses (this Qur'ân) recited to you and then you used to deny them?'
"They will say: 'Our Lord! Our wretchedness overcame us and we were (an) erring people.
"Our Lord! Bring us out of this; if ever we return (to evil) then indeed we shall be Zâlimûn (polytheists, oppressors, unjust, and wrongdoers etc.).'
"He (Allah) will say: 'Remain you in it with ignominy! And speak you not to Me!' (V. 23:101-108).
"And whoever invokes (or worships) besides Allah, any other îlâh (god), of whom he has no proof, then his reckoning is only with his Lord. Surely! Al-Kafirûn (disbelievers in Allah and in the Oneness of Allah, polytheists, pagans, idolaters, etc.) will not be successful." (V. 23:117).
ASH-SHIRK POLYTHEISM AND ITS VARIOUS MANIFESTATIONS
Definition: Shirk basically is polytheism, i.e., the worship of others along with Allah. It also implies attributing divine attributes to any other besides Allah. It particularly implies associating partners in worship with Allah or to believe that the source of power, harm or blessings is from others besides Allah.
Types: There are three types of Shirk, namely:
(1) Ash-Shirk-al-Akbar, i.e. major Shirk
(2) Ash-Shirk-al-Asghar, i.e. minor Shirk
(3) Ash-Shirk-al-Khafi, i.e. inconspicuous Shirk.
Manifestations: (1) Ash-Shirk-al-Akbar (The major Shirk): The major and serious polytheistic form, it has four aspects:
(a) Shirk-ad-Du'â, i.e. invocation.This aspect implies invoking, supplicating or praying to other deities besides Allah.
Almighty Allah says:
"And when they embark on a ships they invoke Allah, making their Faith pure for Him only, but when He brings them safely to land, behold, they give a share of their worship to others," (V.29:65)
(b) Shirk-al-Niyyah wal-Iradah wal-Qasd. This aspect implies inten-tions, purpose and determination in acts of worship or religious deeds not for the sake of Allah but directed towards other deities.
Almighty Allah says:
"Whosoever desires the life of the world and its glitter, to them We shall pay in full (the wages of) their deeds therein, and they will have no diminution therein. They are those for whom there is nothing in the Hereafter but Fire; and vain are the deeds they did therein. And of no effect is that which they used to do."(V. 11:15,16)
(c) Shirk-at-Tâ'a. This aspect implies rendering obedience to any authority against the Order of Allah.
Almighty Allah says:
"They (Jews and Christians) took their Rabbis and their monks to be their lords besides Allah (by obeying them in things which they made lawful or unlawful according to their own desires without being ordered by Allah), and (they also took as their lord) Messiah, son of Maryam (Mary), while they (Jews and Christians) were commanded (in the Torah and the Gospel) to worship none but One Ilâh (God i.e., Allah), Lâ ilâha illâ Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He). Praise and Glory be to Him, (far above is He) from having the partners they associate (with Him)." (V.9:31).
Once, while Allah's Messenger SAW was reciting the above Verse, 'Adi bin Hatim said, "O Allah's Prophet! They do not worship them (rabbis and monks)." Allah's Messenger said, "They certainly do. They (i.e. Rabbis and monks) made legal things illegal, and illegal things legal, and they (i.e. Jews and Christians) followed them; and by doing so they really worshipped them."(Narrated by Ahmad, At-Tirmidhi, and Ibn Jarir). (Tafsir At-Tabari, Vol.10, Page No. 114).
(d) Shirk-al-Mahabbah. This implies showing the love which is due to Allah Alone, to others than Him.
Almighty Allah says:
"And of mankind are some who take (for worship) others besides Allah as rivals (to Allah). They love them as they love Allah. But those who believe, love Allah more (than anything else). If only those who do wrong could see, when they will see the torment, that all power belongs to Allah and that Allah is Severe in punishment." (V. 2:165)
(2) Ash-Shirk-al-Asghar Ar-Riyâ' (The minor Shirk, i.e. acts performed to show off). Any act of worship or any religious deed done in order to gain praise, fame or for worldly purposes, falls under this minor form.
Almighty Allah says:
"Say (O Muhammad SAW ) : 'I am only a man like you, it has been inspired to me that your Ilâh (God) is One Ilâh (God i.e Allah). So whoever hopes for the meeting with his Lord, let him work righteousness and associate none as a partner in the worship of his Lord.' " (V. 18:110)
(3) Ash-Shirk-al-Khafi (The inconspicuous Shirk). This type implies being inwardly dissatisfied with the inevitable condition that has been ordained for one by Allah; conscientiously lamenting that had you done or not done such and such or had you approached such and such you would have had a better status, etc.
The Noble Prophet Muhammad SAW said:
"Ash-Shirk-al-Khafi in the Muslim nation is more inconspicuous than the creeping of black ant on black rock in the pitch-darkness of the night." And this inconspicuous Shirk is expiated by saying thrice the following sentences within a day and a night: "O Allah! I take Your refuge from that I should ascribe anything as partner in Your worship, being conscious of that, and I beg Your pardon for that sin which I am not aware of."
AL-KUFR-DISBELIEF AND ITS VARIOUS MANIFESTATIONS
Kufr is basically disbelief in any of the articles of Faith in Islam.
The articles of Faith are: To believe in -
(1) Allah,
(2) His angels,
(3) His Messengers,
(4) His revealed Books,
(5) The Day of Resurrection, and
(6) Al-Qadar, Divine Preordainments (Fate i.e. whatever Allah SWT has ordained must come to pass).
There are two aspects of disbelief:
(1). The major disbelief (Al-Kufr-al-Akbar): This aspect excludes one completely from the fold of Islam. There are five types (of this major disbelief):-
(a) Kufr-at-Takdhîb. This implies disbelieving the divine truth or denying of any of the articles of Faith.
Almighty Allah says:
"Then who does more wrong than one who utters a lie against Allah and denies the truth [this Qur'ân, the Prophet (Muhammad SAW), the Islamic Monotheism, the Resurrection, and the reward or punishment according to good or evil deeds], when it comes to him. Is there not in Hell an abode for the disbelievers? " (V. 39:32)
(b) Kufr-al-Ibâ' wat-Takabbur ma'at-Tasdîq. This implies rejection and pride to submit to Allah's Commandments after conviction of their truth.
Almighty Allah says:
"And (remember) when We said to the angels: 'Prostrate yourself before Adam.' And they prostrated except Iblis, he refused and was proud and was one of the disbelievers (disobedient to Allah)." (V. 2:34).
(c) Kufr-ash-Shak waz-Zan. This implies doubting or lacking of conviction in the six articles of Faith.
Almighty Allah says:
"And he went into his garden while in a state (of pride and disbelief) unjust to himself. He said: 'I think not that this will ever perish. And I think not the Hour will ever come, and if indeed I am brought back to my Lord (on the Day of Resurrection) I surely shall find better than this when I return to Him.' His companion said to him during the talk with him: 'Do you disbelieve in Him Who created you out of dust (i.e. your father Adam), then out of Nutfah (mixed semen drops of male and female discharge), then fashioned you into a man? But as for my part (I believe) that He is Allah, my Lord, and none shall I associate as partner with my Lord.' " (V.18:3538)
(d) Kufr-al-I'râd. This implies turning away from the truth knowingly or deviating from the obvious signs which Allah has revealed.
Almighty Allah says:
"We created not the heavens and the earth and all that is between them except with truth and for an appointed term. But those who disbelieve turn away from that whereof they are warned." (V.46:3)
(e) Kufr-an-Nifâq. This implies hypocritical disbelief.
Almighty Allah says:
"They have made their oaths a screen (for their hypocrisy). Thus they hinder (men) from the Path of Allah. Verily, evil is what they used to do. That is because they believed, then disbelieved, therefore their hearts are sealed, so they understand not." (V.63:2-3)
(2) The minor disbelief (Al-Kufr-al-Asghar): This aspect of disbelief does not exclude one from the fold of Islam. It is also termed Kufr-an-Ni'mah. This implies disbelief manifesting itself in ungratefulness for Allah's Blessings or Favours.
Almighty Allah says:
'And Allah puts forward the example of a township (Makka), that dwelt secure and well-content; its provision coming to it in abundance from every place, but it (its people) denied the Favours of Allah (with ungratefulness). So Allah made it taste the extreme of hunger (famine) and fear, because of that (evil, i.e. denying Prophet Muhammad SAW ) which they (its people) used to do." (V.16:112).
TAQWA
TAQWA (author unknown)
Dear Muslims:
Assalamu 'Alaikum
My talk to you today is about an important subject which influences our daily lives' activities, behaviors, manners and characters. The title of the subject is Taqwa. Since there is no English meaning for the word Taqwa, I will use the Arabic word for Taqwa as such that I will explain its meaning directly from the Qur'an.
The word Taqwa has been mentioned in the Qur'an 251 times in many surahs. This large number of verses related to Taqwa is an indication of the importance of the subject and the dimension that the concept of Taqwa is involved.
To appreciate the significance of the concept of taqwa, I will summarize some of the verses in the Qur'an. The first verse to be quoted from the Qur'an summarizes the meaning of taqwa. Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah (The Cow):
"Alif. Lam. Mim. This is the book wherein there is no doubt; a guidance unto those who ward off (evil): who believe in the unseen, and establish worship, and spend of that we have bestowed upon them: and who believe in that which is revealed unto thee (Muhammad) and that which was revealed before thee, and are certain of the Hereafter." (2 : 1-4)
Some more meanings for the word taqwa are to be mentioned here. Allah says in the Qur'an in Surah Al-'Imran (The family of Imran):
"And vie one with another for forgiveness from your Lord, and for a paradise as wide as are the heavens and the earth prepared for those who ward off (evil); those who spend (of that which Allah has given them) in ease and in adversity, those who control their wrath and are forgiving toward mankind; Allah loves the good; and those who, when they do an evil thing or wrong themselves, remember Allah and implore forgiveness for their sins - who forgives sins save Allah only? And will not knowingly repeat (the wrong) they did." (3 : 133-135)
Some more meanings for the word taqwa may be mentioned here directly from Qur'an. Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah ( The Cow):
"It is not righteousness that you turn your faces to the East and the West; but righteous is he who believes in Allah and the last Day and the angels and the Scriptures and the Prophets; and gives his wealth for the love of Him, to kinsfolk and to the orphans and the needy and the wayfarer and those who ask, and to set slaves free; and observes proper worship and pays the poor-due. And those who keep their treaty when they make one, and the patient in tribulation and adversity and time of stress. Such are they who are sincere. Such are the God-fearing." (2 : 177)
>From the above three different verses, one may be able to conclude the following meanings for the word Taqwa:
1.Belief in: Allah; the Unseen; the Revelation to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh); the Revelations before Prophet Muhammad (pbuh); the Day of Judgment; the Angels, and the prophets of Allah to mankind.
2.Performance of regular prayers.
3.Paying Zakat.
4.Spending money in the way of Allah while at ease or in adversity for the love of Allah; and giving money to the kinsfolk, the orphans, the needy, the wayfarers, those who ask, and those in slavery to be set free.
5.Controlling one's wrath.
6.Forgiveness to others.
7.Fulfilling one's own commitments.
8.If one commits a mistake, he/she should ask forgiveness from Allah.
9.A person should not knowingly repeat the wrong deeds of he/she did before.
10.To have patience in tribulation, in adversity or at time of stress.
One may ask for the types of rewards that the muttaqeen will receive from Allah Almighty. Since taqwa includes beliefs, practices and good deeds in one's own life, the rewards from Allah are plenty. Among the many worldly and heavenly rewards are the following.
1.Love of Allah to the muttaqeen. In this regard Allah says in Surah Al-'Imran:
"Nay, but (the chosen of Allah is) he who fulfils his pledge and wards off (evil); for lo! Allah loves those who ward off (evil)." (3 : 76)
2.Allah is with the muttaqeen. In this regard Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah (The Cow):
". . . observe your duty to Allah, and know that Allah is with those who ward off (evil)."(2 : 194)
You may also read (9:37) and (9:124).
3.Allah is the supporter, the Friend and the Helper to the muttaqeen. In Surah Al-Jathiyah (The Crouching) Allah says:
". . . and Allah is the Friend of those who ward off (evil)." (45 : 19)
4.Leaders are to be among the muttaqeen. In this regard, Allah says in Surah Al-Furqan:
". . . and make us patterns for (all) those who ward off (evil)." (25 : 74)
5.The muttaqeen during the Day of Judgment will continue to be friends to one another, while others will be foes to one another. In this regard, Allah says in Surah Az-Zukhruff (about al-muttaqeen:
"Friends on the Day will be foes one to another, save those who kept their duty (to Allah)." (43 : 67)
6.In the Day of Judgment, the muttaqeen are not to fear or grieve. In this regard, Allah says in Surah Az-Zukhruff about al-muttaqeen:
"O my worshippers! For you there is no fear this Day, nor is it you who grieve." (43 : 68)
7.The muttaqeen will go to paradise with all the good life they are to enjoy there. There are many verses in the Qur'an about this reward. Allah says in Surah Al-Hijr:
"Lo! Those who ward off (evil) are among gardens and water springs (And it is said unto them): Enter them in peace, secure." (15 : 45-46)
You may also read (51:15); (52:17); (54:54); (68:34); (77:41); (78:31).
We have seen from the above presentation that we should heed Allah, fear Him, love Him, seek refuge in Him, praise Him and call upon Him. We should request Him to guide us, to make us good worshippers, to keep us on the straight path, and to make us of the muttaqeen. If we live as muttaqeen, we will, indeed, be among the best creatures of Allah, and among the best worshippers of Allah.
Dear Muslims:
I request you kindly to look into the concept of taqwa, and to practice the total meaning of taqwa in your private life as well as in your public life. If you do so, you will be loved by Allah; you will enter paradise and you will have the best of what is in paradise. Ameen.
Let us ask Almighty Allah forgiveness.
Dear Muslims:
Assalamu 'Alaikum
My talk to you today is about an important subject which influences our daily lives' activities, behaviors, manners and characters. The title of the subject is Taqwa. Since there is no English meaning for the word Taqwa, I will use the Arabic word for Taqwa as such that I will explain its meaning directly from the Qur'an.
The word Taqwa has been mentioned in the Qur'an 251 times in many surahs. This large number of verses related to Taqwa is an indication of the importance of the subject and the dimension that the concept of Taqwa is involved.
To appreciate the significance of the concept of taqwa, I will summarize some of the verses in the Qur'an. The first verse to be quoted from the Qur'an summarizes the meaning of taqwa. Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah (The Cow):
"Alif. Lam. Mim. This is the book wherein there is no doubt; a guidance unto those who ward off (evil): who believe in the unseen, and establish worship, and spend of that we have bestowed upon them: and who believe in that which is revealed unto thee (Muhammad) and that which was revealed before thee, and are certain of the Hereafter." (2 : 1-4)
Some more meanings for the word taqwa are to be mentioned here. Allah says in the Qur'an in Surah Al-'Imran (The family of Imran):
"And vie one with another for forgiveness from your Lord, and for a paradise as wide as are the heavens and the earth prepared for those who ward off (evil); those who spend (of that which Allah has given them) in ease and in adversity, those who control their wrath and are forgiving toward mankind; Allah loves the good; and those who, when they do an evil thing or wrong themselves, remember Allah and implore forgiveness for their sins - who forgives sins save Allah only? And will not knowingly repeat (the wrong) they did." (3 : 133-135)
Some more meanings for the word taqwa may be mentioned here directly from Qur'an. Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah ( The Cow):
"It is not righteousness that you turn your faces to the East and the West; but righteous is he who believes in Allah and the last Day and the angels and the Scriptures and the Prophets; and gives his wealth for the love of Him, to kinsfolk and to the orphans and the needy and the wayfarer and those who ask, and to set slaves free; and observes proper worship and pays the poor-due. And those who keep their treaty when they make one, and the patient in tribulation and adversity and time of stress. Such are they who are sincere. Such are the God-fearing." (2 : 177)
>From the above three different verses, one may be able to conclude the following meanings for the word Taqwa:
1.Belief in: Allah; the Unseen; the Revelation to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh); the Revelations before Prophet Muhammad (pbuh); the Day of Judgment; the Angels, and the prophets of Allah to mankind.
2.Performance of regular prayers.
3.Paying Zakat.
4.Spending money in the way of Allah while at ease or in adversity for the love of Allah; and giving money to the kinsfolk, the orphans, the needy, the wayfarers, those who ask, and those in slavery to be set free.
5.Controlling one's wrath.
6.Forgiveness to others.
7.Fulfilling one's own commitments.
8.If one commits a mistake, he/she should ask forgiveness from Allah.
9.A person should not knowingly repeat the wrong deeds of he/she did before.
10.To have patience in tribulation, in adversity or at time of stress.
One may ask for the types of rewards that the muttaqeen will receive from Allah Almighty. Since taqwa includes beliefs, practices and good deeds in one's own life, the rewards from Allah are plenty. Among the many worldly and heavenly rewards are the following.
1.Love of Allah to the muttaqeen. In this regard Allah says in Surah Al-'Imran:
"Nay, but (the chosen of Allah is) he who fulfils his pledge and wards off (evil); for lo! Allah loves those who ward off (evil)." (3 : 76)
2.Allah is with the muttaqeen. In this regard Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah (The Cow):
". . . observe your duty to Allah, and know that Allah is with those who ward off (evil)."(2 : 194)
You may also read (9:37) and (9:124).
3.Allah is the supporter, the Friend and the Helper to the muttaqeen. In Surah Al-Jathiyah (The Crouching) Allah says:
". . . and Allah is the Friend of those who ward off (evil)." (45 : 19)
4.Leaders are to be among the muttaqeen. In this regard, Allah says in Surah Al-Furqan:
". . . and make us patterns for (all) those who ward off (evil)." (25 : 74)
5.The muttaqeen during the Day of Judgment will continue to be friends to one another, while others will be foes to one another. In this regard, Allah says in Surah Az-Zukhruff (about al-muttaqeen:
"Friends on the Day will be foes one to another, save those who kept their duty (to Allah)." (43 : 67)
6.In the Day of Judgment, the muttaqeen are not to fear or grieve. In this regard, Allah says in Surah Az-Zukhruff about al-muttaqeen:
"O my worshippers! For you there is no fear this Day, nor is it you who grieve." (43 : 68)
7.The muttaqeen will go to paradise with all the good life they are to enjoy there. There are many verses in the Qur'an about this reward. Allah says in Surah Al-Hijr:
"Lo! Those who ward off (evil) are among gardens and water springs (And it is said unto them): Enter them in peace, secure." (15 : 45-46)
You may also read (51:15); (52:17); (54:54); (68:34); (77:41); (78:31).
We have seen from the above presentation that we should heed Allah, fear Him, love Him, seek refuge in Him, praise Him and call upon Him. We should request Him to guide us, to make us good worshippers, to keep us on the straight path, and to make us of the muttaqeen. If we live as muttaqeen, we will, indeed, be among the best creatures of Allah, and among the best worshippers of Allah.
Dear Muslims:
I request you kindly to look into the concept of taqwa, and to practice the total meaning of taqwa in your private life as well as in your public life. If you do so, you will be loved by Allah; you will enter paradise and you will have the best of what is in paradise. Ameen.
Let us ask Almighty Allah forgiveness.
Eeman in the Final Day
Eeman in the Final Day
By: Muhammad Al-Shareef
Hane', the servant of Uthman, Radi Allahu Anhu, recalls, "Whenever Uthman (RAA) would stand over a grave he used to cry, his beard would moisten from the tears. Some would ask him, 'When Heaven and Hell are mentioned you do not cry, but when the grave is mentioned you collapse crying, how come?' He (RAA) would say: I hear the Prophet (SAAS) say, 'the grave is the first stage of the Hereafter, whoever passes it will be at ease after it, and if he does not pass it he will be in the most horrific of conditions.' I also heard him say, 'Never have I seen a sight more horrifying than the graveyard.'
In the hadith of Jibraeel, when he came to the Prophet (SAAS) and asked him about Islam, Eeman, and Ihsan, the Prophet (SAAS) said about Eeman, "Eeman is to believe in Allah, His Angels, His books, His Messengers, the Final Day, and divine decree, the good and the bad thereof." Today we shall talk about the Final Day. It has been asked, "when shall the Final Day be?" Dear Brothers and Sisters, the Final Day begins when you die. And that shall be our topic for today: What happens after death.
In the battle of Uhud, the Shuhada', after seeing their reward and honor with Allah Ta'ala, longed to tell their brothers that had not yet met martrydom of the blessing that they had recieved. The Prophet (SAAS) said, "When your brothers were martyred at Uhud, Allah placed their souls inside green birds which drink from the rivers of Paradise, eat of it's fruits and seek shelter in lamps of gold which are suspended in the shade of the Arsh (the throne) When they saw how beautiful their food, drink, and abode was, they pleaded, "Who will tell our brothers about us, that we are alive in Paradise and being amply provided for, so that they will not turn away from Jihad or abandon the battlefields. Allah ta'ala said: "I shall tell them!" The verse was then sent down:
[Think not of those who are killed in the Way of Allah as dead, Nay, they are alive with their Lord, provided for/ They rejoice in what Allah has bestowed upon them of His Bounty, rejoicing for the sake of those who have not yet joined them (i.e. not yet martyred) that on them no fear shall come, nor shall they grieve.] - Aali Imran 3/169-170
Let us sit and listen to a lesson given by the Prophet (SAAS) himself, the journey of the soul. You will be taking this journey soon. Narrated Al-Baraa' ibn 'Aazib (RAA): We followed the Prophet (SAAS) out to attend the funeral of one of the Ansar men. When we reached the grave - before the man was buried - the Prophet (SAAS) sat down (facing the Qiblah) and we sat down encircling him. We sat still as if birds were on our heads, silent. The Prophet (SAAS) had a stick in his hand with which he would scratch up the sand. [He gazed at the sky and then down to the ground, repeating this three times] Then he said, "Seek the protection of Allah from the punishment of the Grave." He then continued, "When the believing soul is reaching the end of his time on earth, starting out in the hereafter, angels with white faces shining like the sun descend upon him from heaven, bringing with them one of the shourds of Paradise and Hanoot. They sit down around him as far as the eye can see. Then the Angel of Death comes and sits by his head and pronounces, 'O blessed soul, come out to the forgiveness and pleasure of Allah.' The soul will then come out like a drop of water coming out of the mouth of a waterskin. And the Angel of Death will take it. [Until his soul comes out, every angel between the heavens and earth will pray for him, as will every angel in heaven. The gates of heaven will be opened for im, and the people in every level of heaven will pray to Allah to permit his soul to ascend through their domain.
When the (Angel of Death) has taken the soul, the (other angels) do not leave it in his hand for a moment; immediatly they take it and wrap in the shroud and scent it with Hanoot. This is the meaning of Allah's words:
[...When death approaches any of you, Our Angels take his soul, and they never fail in their duty.]
- An'am 6/61
At that moment a scent shall emerge from the soul, a scent not unlike the finest musk found on earth. They shall take the soul up (to the heavens) and whenever they pass a group of angels, the (angels) will remark, 'Who is this blessed soul?' They will say, 'It is so-and-so, the son of so-and-so' using the best names that they were addressed with in this world.
(They shall go on) until they reach the first heaven. They shall ask for it to be opened and it shall open for them. In each heaven, those who are closest to Allah will accompany him to the next heaven until they reach the seventh heaven, where Allah - Subhaanahu wa Ta'aala - will say, 'Register the book of My slave in 'illiyyun.'
[And what will explain to you what 'Illiyyun is? (It is) a register (fully) inscribed, to which bear witness those nearest to Allah] Mutaffifoon 83/19-21.
So his book will be registered in Illiyun. Then Allah (SWT) will say, 'Take him back to the earth for this was my promise: I created them from it, I shall return them to it, and I will resurrect them from it again.
He will be taken back to the earth, and his soul will be returned to his body. [And he will hear the footsteps of his companions as they leave him.] Two stern Angels will come to him, [rebuke him] and sit him up. They will ask him, 'Who is your Lord?' He will answer, 'My Lord is Allah.' They will ask him, 'What is your religion?' He will say, 'My religion is Islam.' They will ask him, 'Who is this man who was sent among you?' He will say, 'He is the Messenger of Allah (SAAS).'
Yu Thabbitul Allahu al ladheena Aamanu bil Qawl ath-thabiti fil Hayatid Dunya wa fil Aakhirah
A voice will call from Heaven, 'My slave has spoken the Truth, so furnish his grave from Paradise and clothe him from Paradise, and open for him a gate to Paradise.' Some of its breeze and scent will reach him, and his grave will be widened for him as far as the eye can see. There will appear before him a handsome, well dressed, and finely scented man, saying, 'I bring you good news which shall make you happy. I bring you good news of the good pleasure of Allah and Gardens of eternal blessing. This is the day you were promised.' He will say, 'And you, may Allah give you better news, who are you?' He will say, 'I am your good deeds, and by Allah I only ever saw you hastening to obey Allah, and ever reluctant to disobey Him, so may Allah reward you with good.'
Then a gate of Paradise and a gate of Hell will open for him. And it will be said, 'this is your place if you had disobeyed Allah, but Allah has fiven you this instead of that.' When he sees what is in Paradise he will say, 'My Lord! Hasten the coming of the Hour...' It will be said, 'Dwell in patience.'
As for the Disbelieving (corrupt) man, when he leaves this world and enters the Hereafter, stern and harsh angels come down to him from heaven, their faces are black and they bring with them sack-cloth from Hell. They sit around him as far as the eye can see. Then the Angel of Death comes and sits at his head and says, ' Come out O evil soul to the anger and wrath of Allah!'
The soul will be dragged out of his body with as much difficulty as a many-pronged skewer being dragged through wet wool (the veins and nerves will be destroyed by it.)
He will be cursed by every angel between the heaven and the earth, and by every angel in the heaven. The gates of heaven will be locked and the people of every heaven will pray to Allah to not allow his soul to ascend through their domain. He will take it and immediately put it into the sack-cloth, stinking like the foulest stench of dead flesh ever experienced on earth. They will take the soul up and whenever they take it past a group of angels, they will say, 'Who is this evil soul?' They shall say, 'It is so-and-so, son of so-and-so,' using the worst names he was addressed with on earth.
(They will go on) until they reach the first heaven; they will ask for it to be opened for them, and it will not be opened. (Then the Messenger of Allah - SAAS - recited):
[..No opening will there be of the gates of heaven, nor will they enter the Garden, until the camel can pass through the eye of the needle..] A'raf 7:40
Allah ta'ala will say register his book in Sijjin, in the lowest earth. Then Allah will say, take him back to the earth for this was my promise; I created it from it, i will return them to it, and i shall resurrect them from it again. So his soul will be thrown down from heaven until it reaches his body. Then he recited:
[..If anyone asigns partners to Allah, he is as if he had fallen from heaven and been snatched up by birds, or the wind had swooped (like a bird on its prays) and thrown him into a far distant place.]Al-Hajj 22:31
So his soul will be returned to his body ( and he will hear the footsteps of his companions when they leave him ). Two stern angels will come to him, rebuke him and sit him up. They will ask him, 'Who is your Lord?' He will say, Haa Haa, I do not know. They will ask him. 'What is your religion?' He will say, 'Haa Haa, I do not know. They will ask 'What do you say about this man who was sent among you? He will not even know his name. But he will be told. Muhammad. And he will say, 'Haa Haa, I do not know. I heard the people saying such and such.' He will be told May you never know.'
Then a voice will call from heaven and will say, 'He has lied. Furnish his grave from Hell and open for him a gate from hell.' So some of his heat and venom will reach him and his grave will be constricted until his ribs are crushed together.
There will appear before him a man with an ugly face, badly dressed, and foul smelling. He will say, 'I bring you bad news, this is the day you were promised. He will say, 'and you, may Allah give you even worse news! Who are you? Your face brings bad news!' He will say, 'I am your evil deeds, by Allah I only ever saw you reluctant to obey Allah and ever eager to disobey Him. May allah repay you with evil.'
Then there will be sent to him one who is blind , deaf , and dunb. Who will carry in his hand an iron rod which if he were to beat a camel with it, it would turn to dust. He will beat him with it until he turns to dust. Then Allah will restore him then he will be beaten again. He will emit a scream which the whole of creation will hear except men and jinn. Then a gate will be open for him to hell. And his grave will be furnished from hell. He will say, 'My Lord, may the hour never come.'
This is the journey we shall all take. How many have stopped to think about and prepare for this journey. If you were given warning that the Angel of Death would visit you after Maghrib, what would you do till then? Wouldn't you pray continously and cry at Asr Salah. Wouldn't you give Sadaqah and throw this world from your heart. Wouldn't you come back to Allah with a sincere repentance. One day, not too far from now, you will be going back to your Lord and He will ask you all of that which you did.
Bukayr ibn Aamir said, "If it was said to Abd Ar-Rahman ibn Abi Nu'aym that the Angel of Death was about to visit him (and take his soul) he would not find room for any extra actions. (i.e. He lived his day as if the Angel of Death were coming at night, and lived his night as if the Angel of Death were coming in the morning!)
Part II:
Very often after someone dies, relatives and friends want to give that person rewards while he is in the grave. This is something recognized by the Shariah in certain cases:
Firstly: Making Dua' for the deceased. This is understood from the institution of Janazah Salah when everyone gathers to pray sincerely for the dead body.
Secondly: The Deceased feels comfort from the presence of the community after the burial for a period of the time taken to sacrifice a camel and distribute it's meat.
Amr ibn Al-AAs (RA) said, "When you bury me, stay around my grave for the time it would take to sacrifice a camel and distribute it's meat, so that i may be comforted by your presence, until i see how I shall answer the Messengers of my Lord" [Muslim]
Thirdly: A Dua' of strength and forgiveness (not in congregation) for the deceased immediatly after he is buried.
Uthman ibn Affan (RA) said, "Whenever the Prophet (SAAS) had finished burying someone, he would stand by the grave and say, 'Ask forgiveness and strength for your brother, for at this moment he is being questioned.'"
The Prophet (SAAS) said, "When a person dies his deeds are cut off except for three: continuous charity, knowledge that benefits others, or a pious son/daughter who will pray for them."
After death, people try to give rewards to the dead in a manner that is in many times against the principles of the Quran and Sunnah. Some follow traditions passed down through their fathers, others do it as a source of income.
The main phenomenon that happens is the Quran Khani, where people gather, each participant given a part of the Quran to read, afterwhich a feast is served. And some claim that the food is food of charity meant to be on behalf of the deceased. In modern times, some even distribute invitation cards and all types of food are prepared and enjoyed on what is meant to be a sorrowful occasion.
In many countries of the Muslim Ummah this is a normal practice, and certain days are fixed for this Quran Khani: the 3rd day, then the 7th day, the 10th and 40th, and then annually. And unfortunately, this practice is often given more importance than some Fard duties, hence the scholars have considered it to be an innovation (bid'ah) and sinful. This is the opinion of the Ulema'. Ibn Al-Humam Al-Hanafi said in Fath Al-Qadeer, a renowned book on the fiqh of Abu Hanifah, "Gathering to feast at the house of the deceased is a sign of joy and happiness. And to do so is bid'ah."
These practices are taken from the Hindu religion, as a famous Historian, Al-Bairooni (303 AH) mentions in his book, Kitaab Al-Hind, "Hindus have fixed days and dates for the deceased person's family on which they should invite people and provide food, etc.. (the 11th day after death, 15th, annually and specifically the sixth day of the month). The family members are expected to provide food and water for nine days. Otherwise, according to the Hindu belief, the soul of the deceased will wander in hunger and thrist around the home."
In support of this, another Indian scholar, Ubaid Ullah also mentions, "Every year a certain date is fixed when they try to convey rewards to the deceased. This tradition is named 'Saraadh'. When preparation of food for the Saraadh is done, no one may touch it until the Hindu Priest (Pandit) comes and blesses it by reading something." From Tuhfatul Hind, p.91.
Muslims are only following these practices giving it a different name. In place of a Pandit, an Imam is called to bless the food, etc. And if someone does not want to come to the Quran Khani for fear it is against what the Prophet (SAAS) came with, for fear that it is against Islam, for fear that it will be rejected by Allah, the people and the community condemn him and say he is disrespecting the dead and is against giving rewards to the deceased.
And finally, when someone dies we see people telling others to recite Al-Fatiha. This is an act which requires proof from the Quran or Sunnah or Sahabah because that person is specifiying a time and fixed verses to recite, something which can only be specified by Allah and His Messenger.
What do we do then when someone dies?
1.We should make food for the deceased family, they should not make food for the visitors as they are in a state of sorrow and the last thing they want to do is cook for dozens of people. The Prophet (SAAS) said, "Make food for the family of Ja'far.."
2.Condolences should be given to the family of the deceased, but there is no fixed place for this. It could be in the Masjid, on the street, or at their house. However, if it is at their house, we should not spend too long lounging in their living room. It should be a short visit.
3.We should have sympathy and make a dua of forgiveness for the person. This is what the Prophet (SAAS) used to do and his companions likewise.
If you want Thawab, now dear brothers and sisters is the time to collect it. Ali ibn Abi Talib stood with a companion of his near a grave one day and asked him, "If he could come back to this Dunya, what do you think he would do?" He replied, "He would do nothing but good deeds." The Ali (RAA) said, "If it is not going to be him, then let it be you!"
By: Muhammad Al-Shareef
Hane', the servant of Uthman, Radi Allahu Anhu, recalls, "Whenever Uthman (RAA) would stand over a grave he used to cry, his beard would moisten from the tears. Some would ask him, 'When Heaven and Hell are mentioned you do not cry, but when the grave is mentioned you collapse crying, how come?' He (RAA) would say: I hear the Prophet (SAAS) say, 'the grave is the first stage of the Hereafter, whoever passes it will be at ease after it, and if he does not pass it he will be in the most horrific of conditions.' I also heard him say, 'Never have I seen a sight more horrifying than the graveyard.'
In the hadith of Jibraeel, when he came to the Prophet (SAAS) and asked him about Islam, Eeman, and Ihsan, the Prophet (SAAS) said about Eeman, "Eeman is to believe in Allah, His Angels, His books, His Messengers, the Final Day, and divine decree, the good and the bad thereof." Today we shall talk about the Final Day. It has been asked, "when shall the Final Day be?" Dear Brothers and Sisters, the Final Day begins when you die. And that shall be our topic for today: What happens after death.
In the battle of Uhud, the Shuhada', after seeing their reward and honor with Allah Ta'ala, longed to tell their brothers that had not yet met martrydom of the blessing that they had recieved. The Prophet (SAAS) said, "When your brothers were martyred at Uhud, Allah placed their souls inside green birds which drink from the rivers of Paradise, eat of it's fruits and seek shelter in lamps of gold which are suspended in the shade of the Arsh (the throne) When they saw how beautiful their food, drink, and abode was, they pleaded, "Who will tell our brothers about us, that we are alive in Paradise and being amply provided for, so that they will not turn away from Jihad or abandon the battlefields. Allah ta'ala said: "I shall tell them!" The verse was then sent down:
[Think not of those who are killed in the Way of Allah as dead, Nay, they are alive with their Lord, provided for/ They rejoice in what Allah has bestowed upon them of His Bounty, rejoicing for the sake of those who have not yet joined them (i.e. not yet martyred) that on them no fear shall come, nor shall they grieve.] - Aali Imran 3/169-170
Let us sit and listen to a lesson given by the Prophet (SAAS) himself, the journey of the soul. You will be taking this journey soon. Narrated Al-Baraa' ibn 'Aazib (RAA): We followed the Prophet (SAAS) out to attend the funeral of one of the Ansar men. When we reached the grave - before the man was buried - the Prophet (SAAS) sat down (facing the Qiblah) and we sat down encircling him. We sat still as if birds were on our heads, silent. The Prophet (SAAS) had a stick in his hand with which he would scratch up the sand. [He gazed at the sky and then down to the ground, repeating this three times] Then he said, "Seek the protection of Allah from the punishment of the Grave." He then continued, "When the believing soul is reaching the end of his time on earth, starting out in the hereafter, angels with white faces shining like the sun descend upon him from heaven, bringing with them one of the shourds of Paradise and Hanoot. They sit down around him as far as the eye can see. Then the Angel of Death comes and sits by his head and pronounces, 'O blessed soul, come out to the forgiveness and pleasure of Allah.' The soul will then come out like a drop of water coming out of the mouth of a waterskin. And the Angel of Death will take it. [Until his soul comes out, every angel between the heavens and earth will pray for him, as will every angel in heaven. The gates of heaven will be opened for im, and the people in every level of heaven will pray to Allah to permit his soul to ascend through their domain.
When the (Angel of Death) has taken the soul, the (other angels) do not leave it in his hand for a moment; immediatly they take it and wrap in the shroud and scent it with Hanoot. This is the meaning of Allah's words:
[...When death approaches any of you, Our Angels take his soul, and they never fail in their duty.]
- An'am 6/61
At that moment a scent shall emerge from the soul, a scent not unlike the finest musk found on earth. They shall take the soul up (to the heavens) and whenever they pass a group of angels, the (angels) will remark, 'Who is this blessed soul?' They will say, 'It is so-and-so, the son of so-and-so' using the best names that they were addressed with in this world.
(They shall go on) until they reach the first heaven. They shall ask for it to be opened and it shall open for them. In each heaven, those who are closest to Allah will accompany him to the next heaven until they reach the seventh heaven, where Allah - Subhaanahu wa Ta'aala - will say, 'Register the book of My slave in 'illiyyun.'
[And what will explain to you what 'Illiyyun is? (It is) a register (fully) inscribed, to which bear witness those nearest to Allah] Mutaffifoon 83/19-21.
So his book will be registered in Illiyun. Then Allah (SWT) will say, 'Take him back to the earth for this was my promise: I created them from it, I shall return them to it, and I will resurrect them from it again.
He will be taken back to the earth, and his soul will be returned to his body. [And he will hear the footsteps of his companions as they leave him.] Two stern Angels will come to him, [rebuke him] and sit him up. They will ask him, 'Who is your Lord?' He will answer, 'My Lord is Allah.' They will ask him, 'What is your religion?' He will say, 'My religion is Islam.' They will ask him, 'Who is this man who was sent among you?' He will say, 'He is the Messenger of Allah (SAAS).'
Yu Thabbitul Allahu al ladheena Aamanu bil Qawl ath-thabiti fil Hayatid Dunya wa fil Aakhirah
A voice will call from Heaven, 'My slave has spoken the Truth, so furnish his grave from Paradise and clothe him from Paradise, and open for him a gate to Paradise.' Some of its breeze and scent will reach him, and his grave will be widened for him as far as the eye can see. There will appear before him a handsome, well dressed, and finely scented man, saying, 'I bring you good news which shall make you happy. I bring you good news of the good pleasure of Allah and Gardens of eternal blessing. This is the day you were promised.' He will say, 'And you, may Allah give you better news, who are you?' He will say, 'I am your good deeds, and by Allah I only ever saw you hastening to obey Allah, and ever reluctant to disobey Him, so may Allah reward you with good.'
Then a gate of Paradise and a gate of Hell will open for him. And it will be said, 'this is your place if you had disobeyed Allah, but Allah has fiven you this instead of that.' When he sees what is in Paradise he will say, 'My Lord! Hasten the coming of the Hour...' It will be said, 'Dwell in patience.'
As for the Disbelieving (corrupt) man, when he leaves this world and enters the Hereafter, stern and harsh angels come down to him from heaven, their faces are black and they bring with them sack-cloth from Hell. They sit around him as far as the eye can see. Then the Angel of Death comes and sits at his head and says, ' Come out O evil soul to the anger and wrath of Allah!'
The soul will be dragged out of his body with as much difficulty as a many-pronged skewer being dragged through wet wool (the veins and nerves will be destroyed by it.)
He will be cursed by every angel between the heaven and the earth, and by every angel in the heaven. The gates of heaven will be locked and the people of every heaven will pray to Allah to not allow his soul to ascend through their domain. He will take it and immediately put it into the sack-cloth, stinking like the foulest stench of dead flesh ever experienced on earth. They will take the soul up and whenever they take it past a group of angels, they will say, 'Who is this evil soul?' They shall say, 'It is so-and-so, son of so-and-so,' using the worst names he was addressed with on earth.
(They will go on) until they reach the first heaven; they will ask for it to be opened for them, and it will not be opened. (Then the Messenger of Allah - SAAS - recited):
[..No opening will there be of the gates of heaven, nor will they enter the Garden, until the camel can pass through the eye of the needle..] A'raf 7:40
Allah ta'ala will say register his book in Sijjin, in the lowest earth. Then Allah will say, take him back to the earth for this was my promise; I created it from it, i will return them to it, and i shall resurrect them from it again. So his soul will be thrown down from heaven until it reaches his body. Then he recited:
[..If anyone asigns partners to Allah, he is as if he had fallen from heaven and been snatched up by birds, or the wind had swooped (like a bird on its prays) and thrown him into a far distant place.]Al-Hajj 22:31
So his soul will be returned to his body ( and he will hear the footsteps of his companions when they leave him ). Two stern angels will come to him, rebuke him and sit him up. They will ask him, 'Who is your Lord?' He will say, Haa Haa, I do not know. They will ask him. 'What is your religion?' He will say, 'Haa Haa, I do not know. They will ask 'What do you say about this man who was sent among you? He will not even know his name. But he will be told. Muhammad. And he will say, 'Haa Haa, I do not know. I heard the people saying such and such.' He will be told May you never know.'
Then a voice will call from heaven and will say, 'He has lied. Furnish his grave from Hell and open for him a gate from hell.' So some of his heat and venom will reach him and his grave will be constricted until his ribs are crushed together.
There will appear before him a man with an ugly face, badly dressed, and foul smelling. He will say, 'I bring you bad news, this is the day you were promised. He will say, 'and you, may Allah give you even worse news! Who are you? Your face brings bad news!' He will say, 'I am your evil deeds, by Allah I only ever saw you reluctant to obey Allah and ever eager to disobey Him. May allah repay you with evil.'
Then there will be sent to him one who is blind , deaf , and dunb. Who will carry in his hand an iron rod which if he were to beat a camel with it, it would turn to dust. He will beat him with it until he turns to dust. Then Allah will restore him then he will be beaten again. He will emit a scream which the whole of creation will hear except men and jinn. Then a gate will be open for him to hell. And his grave will be furnished from hell. He will say, 'My Lord, may the hour never come.'
This is the journey we shall all take. How many have stopped to think about and prepare for this journey. If you were given warning that the Angel of Death would visit you after Maghrib, what would you do till then? Wouldn't you pray continously and cry at Asr Salah. Wouldn't you give Sadaqah and throw this world from your heart. Wouldn't you come back to Allah with a sincere repentance. One day, not too far from now, you will be going back to your Lord and He will ask you all of that which you did.
Bukayr ibn Aamir said, "If it was said to Abd Ar-Rahman ibn Abi Nu'aym that the Angel of Death was about to visit him (and take his soul) he would not find room for any extra actions. (i.e. He lived his day as if the Angel of Death were coming at night, and lived his night as if the Angel of Death were coming in the morning!)
Part II:
Very often after someone dies, relatives and friends want to give that person rewards while he is in the grave. This is something recognized by the Shariah in certain cases:
Firstly: Making Dua' for the deceased. This is understood from the institution of Janazah Salah when everyone gathers to pray sincerely for the dead body.
Secondly: The Deceased feels comfort from the presence of the community after the burial for a period of the time taken to sacrifice a camel and distribute it's meat.
Amr ibn Al-AAs (RA) said, "When you bury me, stay around my grave for the time it would take to sacrifice a camel and distribute it's meat, so that i may be comforted by your presence, until i see how I shall answer the Messengers of my Lord" [Muslim]
Thirdly: A Dua' of strength and forgiveness (not in congregation) for the deceased immediatly after he is buried.
Uthman ibn Affan (RA) said, "Whenever the Prophet (SAAS) had finished burying someone, he would stand by the grave and say, 'Ask forgiveness and strength for your brother, for at this moment he is being questioned.'"
The Prophet (SAAS) said, "When a person dies his deeds are cut off except for three: continuous charity, knowledge that benefits others, or a pious son/daughter who will pray for them."
After death, people try to give rewards to the dead in a manner that is in many times against the principles of the Quran and Sunnah. Some follow traditions passed down through their fathers, others do it as a source of income.
The main phenomenon that happens is the Quran Khani, where people gather, each participant given a part of the Quran to read, afterwhich a feast is served. And some claim that the food is food of charity meant to be on behalf of the deceased. In modern times, some even distribute invitation cards and all types of food are prepared and enjoyed on what is meant to be a sorrowful occasion.
In many countries of the Muslim Ummah this is a normal practice, and certain days are fixed for this Quran Khani: the 3rd day, then the 7th day, the 10th and 40th, and then annually. And unfortunately, this practice is often given more importance than some Fard duties, hence the scholars have considered it to be an innovation (bid'ah) and sinful. This is the opinion of the Ulema'. Ibn Al-Humam Al-Hanafi said in Fath Al-Qadeer, a renowned book on the fiqh of Abu Hanifah, "Gathering to feast at the house of the deceased is a sign of joy and happiness. And to do so is bid'ah."
These practices are taken from the Hindu religion, as a famous Historian, Al-Bairooni (303 AH) mentions in his book, Kitaab Al-Hind, "Hindus have fixed days and dates for the deceased person's family on which they should invite people and provide food, etc.. (the 11th day after death, 15th, annually and specifically the sixth day of the month). The family members are expected to provide food and water for nine days. Otherwise, according to the Hindu belief, the soul of the deceased will wander in hunger and thrist around the home."
In support of this, another Indian scholar, Ubaid Ullah also mentions, "Every year a certain date is fixed when they try to convey rewards to the deceased. This tradition is named 'Saraadh'. When preparation of food for the Saraadh is done, no one may touch it until the Hindu Priest (Pandit) comes and blesses it by reading something." From Tuhfatul Hind, p.91.
Muslims are only following these practices giving it a different name. In place of a Pandit, an Imam is called to bless the food, etc. And if someone does not want to come to the Quran Khani for fear it is against what the Prophet (SAAS) came with, for fear that it is against Islam, for fear that it will be rejected by Allah, the people and the community condemn him and say he is disrespecting the dead and is against giving rewards to the deceased.
And finally, when someone dies we see people telling others to recite Al-Fatiha. This is an act which requires proof from the Quran or Sunnah or Sahabah because that person is specifiying a time and fixed verses to recite, something which can only be specified by Allah and His Messenger.
What do we do then when someone dies?
1.We should make food for the deceased family, they should not make food for the visitors as they are in a state of sorrow and the last thing they want to do is cook for dozens of people. The Prophet (SAAS) said, "Make food for the family of Ja'far.."
2.Condolences should be given to the family of the deceased, but there is no fixed place for this. It could be in the Masjid, on the street, or at their house. However, if it is at their house, we should not spend too long lounging in their living room. It should be a short visit.
3.We should have sympathy and make a dua of forgiveness for the person. This is what the Prophet (SAAS) used to do and his companions likewise.
If you want Thawab, now dear brothers and sisters is the time to collect it. Ali ibn Abi Talib stood with a companion of his near a grave one day and asked him, "If he could come back to this Dunya, what do you think he would do?" He replied, "He would do nothing but good deeds." The Ali (RAA) said, "If it is not going to be him, then let it be you!"
Belief in the Angels
Belief in the Angels
In the name of Allah, all Praise is due to Allah, and may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon His beloved Messenger. Upon him, his family and companions, and those that follow them in righteousness till the final day.
The Prophet Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,was sitting in his home, his lower legs uncovered. Abu Bakr ,Radi Allahu Anhu ,came in and then Umar , Radi Allahu Anhu ,and the Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,remained in his position. Then when Uthman ,Radi Allahu Anhu ,arrived the Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,sat up, covered his lower leg and greeted him with the warmest greeting. Aisha ,Radi Allahu Anha ,witnessed this and she later questioned the Messenger of Allah ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,about his action. He ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,said, "Should I not be shy from he whom the angels are shy from?"
In the hadith we began explaining last week, when Jibraeel came to the Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,and asked him about Islam, Eeman, and Ihsan, the Messenger of Allah ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,said when asked, 'What is Eeman?' He ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,said, "Eeman is to believe in Allah, in His angels, His books, His Messengers, the Last Day, and the divine decree ,the good and the bad thereof." Today we shall talk about Eeman in the Angels.
All throughout the stages of our creation the angels have been there with some duty. When we were nothing in our mothers stomach, an angel was there breathing a soul into us. They are there every day reporting to Allah our Salah. They are there every second recording what we whisper and speak. When the time of our death comes they are ready to take our soul. And when the day of Judgement commences, an angel will blow the trumpet to announce it.
Having belief or Eeman in the Angels is a pillar of a Muslims Eeman. Angels are a creation of Allah. They were created from light, they do not eat or drink, they are characterized by neither feminine or masculine, and they do not tire. Some spend their entire existence in Ruku', others in Sujood. And then when the Judgement is called they will raise their heads and say: Glory be to you, our Lord, we did not worship you in a way befitting your Majesty.
The are the creation of Allah, a creation that took place before the creation of our father Adam ,Alayhis Salam. The Messenger of Allah ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,told us about their characteristics and duties. Amongst these characteristics are the following:
Firstly: That their creation is huge. The Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,said, "I saw Jibraeel in the fashion that he was originally created in. He had 600 wings. Each wing filling the (entire) horizon. (The east to the west ,as far as the eye could see). This event was mentioned in the Quran [And indeed he (Muhammad ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam) saw him (Jibraee-Alayhis Salam) in the clear horizon (to the east)] Takweer 81-23.
Secondly: That they have the ability to change shape, as we know in the story of Maryam, and in this hadith of Jibraeel when all the companions saw him with an intense white garment, with intense black hair.
Thirdly: They live in the heavens and from there they descend to carry out the duties appointed to them. Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,says [Nearly the heavens might rent asunder from above them (by His majesty) and the angels glorify the praises of their Lord] Shura 42/5 Takadus Samawaatu yatta fattarna min fawqihinna^Å
This is just a glimpse at some of their characteristics. As for their relationship with Mu'mineen (those who have Eeman), the relationship is a very close one.
· The Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,told us that they witness the gatherings of Muslims in which Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,is remembered. He ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,said: "Allah has some angels who look for those who celebrate the Praises of Allah on the roads and paths. And when they find some people celebrating the Praises of Allah, they call each other, saying, "Come to the object of your pursuit.' " He added, "Then the angels encircle them with their wings up to the sky of the world." He added, "(After those people celebrated the Praises of Allah, and the angels go back), their Lord, asks them (those angels)--though He knows better than them--'What do My slaves say?' The angels reply, 'They say: Subhan Allah, Allahu Akbar, and Alham-du-lillah.' Allah then says 'Did they see Me?' The angels reply, 'No! By Allah, they didn't see You.'
Allah says, How it would have been if they saw Me?' The angels reply, 'If they saw You, they would worship You more devoutly and celebrate Your Glory more deeply, and declare Your freedom from any resemblance to anything more often.' Allah says (to the angels), 'What do they ask Me for?' The angels reply, 'They ask You for Paradise.' Allah says (to the angels), 'Did they see it?' The angels say, 'No! By Allah, O Lord! They did not see it.' Allah says, How it would have been if they saw it?' The angels say, 'If they saw it, they would have greater covetousness for it and would seek It with greater zeal and would have greater desire for it.' Allah says, 'From what do they seek refuge?' The angels reply, 'They seek refuge from the (Hell) Fire.' Allah says, 'Did they see it?' The angels say, 'No By Allah, O Lord! They did not see it.' Allah says, How it would have been if they saw it?' The angels say, 'If they saw it they would flee from it with the extreme fleeing and would have extreme fear from it.' Then Allah says, 'I make you witnesses that I have forgiven them.' " Allah's Apostle added, "One of the angels would say, 'There was so-and-so amongst them, and he was not one of them, but he had just come for some need.' Allah would say, 'These are those people whose companions will not fall into misery.' "
· They love the believers. The Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam , said, "When Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,loves someone he calls to Jibreel saying, 'O Jibreel, I love such and such a person so love him.' Then Jibreel will call to the (angels) of the heavens, 'Allah loves such and such a person so love him.' And the angels will love. And then Allah , Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,will place acceptance on earth for that Mu'min. , Bukhari and Muslim
· They pray for the believers. As the Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,explained, "Any servant that prays for me an angel will pray for them." Sahih Al-Jami'. And the Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,explained that there is an angel appointed to the prayers one does for a brother in his absence. The angels duty is to say Ameen, Ameen to the prayer, and to you the same.
· And no doubt the angels assist the Mu'mineen in Jihad. In the battle of Badr the Messenger of Allah ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,left Madinah with only 317 companions in pursuit of a caravan, unprepared for war. When the Muslim army found themselves confronted with over 1000 fighters from Quraish, all with weapons, horses, and preperation, the battle looked grim, especially since it was their first battle in Islam. The Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,entered his tent, prayed and raised his hands invoking victory from Allah. He raised his hands so high that his shawl would fall off and Abu Bakr ,Radi Allahu Anhu ,was there placing it back on his shoulders. He ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,cried and prayed until Abu Bakr ,Radi Allahu Anhu ,felt sympathy for the state he saw. He called out to the Messenger of Allah ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam , "Ruwaidan Ya Rasullah, In Allaha Naasiruk wa Mujizu wa'dak." Then Allah , Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,revealed the verse: [(Remember) when your Lord inspired the angels, "Verily, I am with you, so keep firm those who have believed. I will cast terror into the hearts of those who have disbelieved, so strike them over the necks, and smite over all their fingers and toes.] Anfal 8/12.
Jibreel asked the Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,about those that attended the victory of Badr, "What is the position of those who attended Badr amongst you?" The Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,said, "They are our best of us." Then Jibraeel said, "Likewise, the Angels that attended Badr are the best amongst the angels." And the Angels are there when the Mu'min dies. Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,tells us of that day when the come to extract the soul of the Mu'min: [Verily, those who say: "Our Lord is Allah (alone)" and then they (lived) upright on them the angels will descend (at the time of their death) (saying), "Fear not, nor grieve! Rather receive the glad tidings of Paradise which you have been promised!] Fussilat 41/30
Part II: The Angels and the Kuffar:
Just as the angels are a part of the Mu'mins life, death, and resurrection, they are also a part of the Kafirs, but in a different way. The Prophet , Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,told us that when Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,hates a person he calls to Jibreel saying, 'O Jibreel, I hate such and such a person so hate him.' Then Jibreel will call to the (angels) of the heavens, 'Allah hates such and such a person so hate him.' And the angels will hate him. And then Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,will place displeasure on earth for him.
At the time of the Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,the Kuffar mocked him by requesting to see the angels in this life, claiming that only then would they believe. Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,recorded their statement in the Quran, for them and many others are people who believe with their eyes and not their hearts: [And those who expect not to meet with Us (those who deny the Day of Ressurection and the life of the Hereafter) say, "Why are not the angels sent down to us, or why do we not see our Lord?" Indeed they think too highly of themselves, and are scornful with great pride! On the Day they will see the angels ,no glad tidings will there be for the Mujrimoon (the criminals) and they will say, "Forbidden to you is any sort of glad tidings."] Furqan 21/23
And when they enter Hell, Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,tells us about their conversation with the angel custodians of Hell: Ghafir 40/49 [And those in the fire will say to the keepers (angels) of Hell, "Call your Lord to lighten for us a day of the punishment. They will reply: "Did there not come to you your Messengers with clear proofs? They will say, "Yes." They will say, "then pray ,and the prayer of the disbelievers is to no avail.]
Dear brothers and sisters, what now is our duty towards these angels. It is to believe in them and respect them the way they deserve. Thus when we hear that Angels do not enter houses that have dogs and images, we immediately go and rid ourselves of that which will rob our houses of their blessed presence. The Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,told us in an authentic hadith that the angels will not enter a house in which there is an image or a dog. It is unfortunate that many Muslim homes have found a place on their shelves to put up idols of animals, or dolls, and pictures on the walls. If prayer time comes they may cover it or they may not, but it is no matter. That is a house that is robbed of the angels blessed presence, protection and dua. And when Angels are not there, most likely devils and jinns will find refuge. May Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta'Aala ,protect us all.
In conclusion, the closest angels to us are those on every human's shoulders writing the good deeds and the bad deeds. Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala , mentioned them in the Quran: [Not a word does he (or she) utter except that there is watcher near him, ready (to record it).] Qaaf 50/18. If we had a tape recorder on both shoulders and there was a competition that whoever glorifies Allah will get 1 dollar for each time, and whoever speaks ill will be lashed once ,what would happen to the state of the community. It would ignite in Tasbeeh! Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar. Even if you said salam, all the person would reply with would be Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar. How are you? Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar. And at the end of the day he would get 30000, the other 50000 dollars, who would not partake in such profit? Dear brothers and sisters we are being recorded and the stakes are much higher.
Innal Allah wa Malaikatahu
In the name of Allah, all Praise is due to Allah, and may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon His beloved Messenger. Upon him, his family and companions, and those that follow them in righteousness till the final day.
The Prophet Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,was sitting in his home, his lower legs uncovered. Abu Bakr ,Radi Allahu Anhu ,came in and then Umar , Radi Allahu Anhu ,and the Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,remained in his position. Then when Uthman ,Radi Allahu Anhu ,arrived the Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,sat up, covered his lower leg and greeted him with the warmest greeting. Aisha ,Radi Allahu Anha ,witnessed this and she later questioned the Messenger of Allah ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,about his action. He ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,said, "Should I not be shy from he whom the angels are shy from?"
In the hadith we began explaining last week, when Jibraeel came to the Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,and asked him about Islam, Eeman, and Ihsan, the Messenger of Allah ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,said when asked, 'What is Eeman?' He ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,said, "Eeman is to believe in Allah, in His angels, His books, His Messengers, the Last Day, and the divine decree ,the good and the bad thereof." Today we shall talk about Eeman in the Angels.
All throughout the stages of our creation the angels have been there with some duty. When we were nothing in our mothers stomach, an angel was there breathing a soul into us. They are there every day reporting to Allah our Salah. They are there every second recording what we whisper and speak. When the time of our death comes they are ready to take our soul. And when the day of Judgement commences, an angel will blow the trumpet to announce it.
Having belief or Eeman in the Angels is a pillar of a Muslims Eeman. Angels are a creation of Allah. They were created from light, they do not eat or drink, they are characterized by neither feminine or masculine, and they do not tire. Some spend their entire existence in Ruku', others in Sujood. And then when the Judgement is called they will raise their heads and say: Glory be to you, our Lord, we did not worship you in a way befitting your Majesty.
The are the creation of Allah, a creation that took place before the creation of our father Adam ,Alayhis Salam. The Messenger of Allah ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,told us about their characteristics and duties. Amongst these characteristics are the following:
Firstly: That their creation is huge. The Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,said, "I saw Jibraeel in the fashion that he was originally created in. He had 600 wings. Each wing filling the (entire) horizon. (The east to the west ,as far as the eye could see). This event was mentioned in the Quran [And indeed he (Muhammad ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam) saw him (Jibraee-Alayhis Salam) in the clear horizon (to the east)] Takweer 81-23.
Secondly: That they have the ability to change shape, as we know in the story of Maryam, and in this hadith of Jibraeel when all the companions saw him with an intense white garment, with intense black hair.
Thirdly: They live in the heavens and from there they descend to carry out the duties appointed to them. Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,says [Nearly the heavens might rent asunder from above them (by His majesty) and the angels glorify the praises of their Lord] Shura 42/5 Takadus Samawaatu yatta fattarna min fawqihinna^Å
This is just a glimpse at some of their characteristics. As for their relationship with Mu'mineen (those who have Eeman), the relationship is a very close one.
· The Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,told us that they witness the gatherings of Muslims in which Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,is remembered. He ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,said: "Allah has some angels who look for those who celebrate the Praises of Allah on the roads and paths. And when they find some people celebrating the Praises of Allah, they call each other, saying, "Come to the object of your pursuit.' " He added, "Then the angels encircle them with their wings up to the sky of the world." He added, "(After those people celebrated the Praises of Allah, and the angels go back), their Lord, asks them (those angels)--though He knows better than them--'What do My slaves say?' The angels reply, 'They say: Subhan Allah, Allahu Akbar, and Alham-du-lillah.' Allah then says 'Did they see Me?' The angels reply, 'No! By Allah, they didn't see You.'
Allah says, How it would have been if they saw Me?' The angels reply, 'If they saw You, they would worship You more devoutly and celebrate Your Glory more deeply, and declare Your freedom from any resemblance to anything more often.' Allah says (to the angels), 'What do they ask Me for?' The angels reply, 'They ask You for Paradise.' Allah says (to the angels), 'Did they see it?' The angels say, 'No! By Allah, O Lord! They did not see it.' Allah says, How it would have been if they saw it?' The angels say, 'If they saw it, they would have greater covetousness for it and would seek It with greater zeal and would have greater desire for it.' Allah says, 'From what do they seek refuge?' The angels reply, 'They seek refuge from the (Hell) Fire.' Allah says, 'Did they see it?' The angels say, 'No By Allah, O Lord! They did not see it.' Allah says, How it would have been if they saw it?' The angels say, 'If they saw it they would flee from it with the extreme fleeing and would have extreme fear from it.' Then Allah says, 'I make you witnesses that I have forgiven them.' " Allah's Apostle added, "One of the angels would say, 'There was so-and-so amongst them, and he was not one of them, but he had just come for some need.' Allah would say, 'These are those people whose companions will not fall into misery.' "
· They love the believers. The Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam , said, "When Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,loves someone he calls to Jibreel saying, 'O Jibreel, I love such and such a person so love him.' Then Jibreel will call to the (angels) of the heavens, 'Allah loves such and such a person so love him.' And the angels will love. And then Allah , Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,will place acceptance on earth for that Mu'min. , Bukhari and Muslim
· They pray for the believers. As the Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,explained, "Any servant that prays for me an angel will pray for them." Sahih Al-Jami'. And the Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,explained that there is an angel appointed to the prayers one does for a brother in his absence. The angels duty is to say Ameen, Ameen to the prayer, and to you the same.
· And no doubt the angels assist the Mu'mineen in Jihad. In the battle of Badr the Messenger of Allah ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,left Madinah with only 317 companions in pursuit of a caravan, unprepared for war. When the Muslim army found themselves confronted with over 1000 fighters from Quraish, all with weapons, horses, and preperation, the battle looked grim, especially since it was their first battle in Islam. The Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,entered his tent, prayed and raised his hands invoking victory from Allah. He raised his hands so high that his shawl would fall off and Abu Bakr ,Radi Allahu Anhu ,was there placing it back on his shoulders. He ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,cried and prayed until Abu Bakr ,Radi Allahu Anhu ,felt sympathy for the state he saw. He called out to the Messenger of Allah ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam , "Ruwaidan Ya Rasullah, In Allaha Naasiruk wa Mujizu wa'dak." Then Allah , Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,revealed the verse: [(Remember) when your Lord inspired the angels, "Verily, I am with you, so keep firm those who have believed. I will cast terror into the hearts of those who have disbelieved, so strike them over the necks, and smite over all their fingers and toes.] Anfal 8/12.
Jibreel asked the Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,about those that attended the victory of Badr, "What is the position of those who attended Badr amongst you?" The Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,said, "They are our best of us." Then Jibraeel said, "Likewise, the Angels that attended Badr are the best amongst the angels." And the Angels are there when the Mu'min dies. Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,tells us of that day when the come to extract the soul of the Mu'min: [Verily, those who say: "Our Lord is Allah (alone)" and then they (lived) upright on them the angels will descend (at the time of their death) (saying), "Fear not, nor grieve! Rather receive the glad tidings of Paradise which you have been promised!] Fussilat 41/30
Part II: The Angels and the Kuffar:
Just as the angels are a part of the Mu'mins life, death, and resurrection, they are also a part of the Kafirs, but in a different way. The Prophet , Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,told us that when Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,hates a person he calls to Jibreel saying, 'O Jibreel, I hate such and such a person so hate him.' Then Jibreel will call to the (angels) of the heavens, 'Allah hates such and such a person so hate him.' And the angels will hate him. And then Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,will place displeasure on earth for him.
At the time of the Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,the Kuffar mocked him by requesting to see the angels in this life, claiming that only then would they believe. Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,recorded their statement in the Quran, for them and many others are people who believe with their eyes and not their hearts: [And those who expect not to meet with Us (those who deny the Day of Ressurection and the life of the Hereafter) say, "Why are not the angels sent down to us, or why do we not see our Lord?" Indeed they think too highly of themselves, and are scornful with great pride! On the Day they will see the angels ,no glad tidings will there be for the Mujrimoon (the criminals) and they will say, "Forbidden to you is any sort of glad tidings."] Furqan 21/23
And when they enter Hell, Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala ,tells us about their conversation with the angel custodians of Hell: Ghafir 40/49 [And those in the fire will say to the keepers (angels) of Hell, "Call your Lord to lighten for us a day of the punishment. They will reply: "Did there not come to you your Messengers with clear proofs? They will say, "Yes." They will say, "then pray ,and the prayer of the disbelievers is to no avail.]
Dear brothers and sisters, what now is our duty towards these angels. It is to believe in them and respect them the way they deserve. Thus when we hear that Angels do not enter houses that have dogs and images, we immediately go and rid ourselves of that which will rob our houses of their blessed presence. The Prophet ,Sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam ,told us in an authentic hadith that the angels will not enter a house in which there is an image or a dog. It is unfortunate that many Muslim homes have found a place on their shelves to put up idols of animals, or dolls, and pictures on the walls. If prayer time comes they may cover it or they may not, but it is no matter. That is a house that is robbed of the angels blessed presence, protection and dua. And when Angels are not there, most likely devils and jinns will find refuge. May Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta'Aala ,protect us all.
In conclusion, the closest angels to us are those on every human's shoulders writing the good deeds and the bad deeds. Allah ,Subhaanahu wa Ta 'Aala , mentioned them in the Quran: [Not a word does he (or she) utter except that there is watcher near him, ready (to record it).] Qaaf 50/18. If we had a tape recorder on both shoulders and there was a competition that whoever glorifies Allah will get 1 dollar for each time, and whoever speaks ill will be lashed once ,what would happen to the state of the community. It would ignite in Tasbeeh! Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar. Even if you said salam, all the person would reply with would be Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar. How are you? Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar. And at the end of the day he would get 30000, the other 50000 dollars, who would not partake in such profit? Dear brothers and sisters we are being recorded and the stakes are much higher.
Innal Allah wa Malaikatahu
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