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The Comprehensive, All-Encompassing and Universal Message

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Basics, Bid'ah (Innovation), Brotherhood, Charity (Sadaqah), Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Death, Deviated Groups, Sects and Parties, Eid, Fasting, Hajj, Dhul Hijjah, Eid al Adha, Hijrah (Migration), History of Islam, Innovations In Islam (Bidah), Islamic Jurisprudence - 'Fiqh', Jahannam (Hell Fire), Jannah (Paradise), Khawaarij, Literature, Marriage (Nikkah), Mental Health, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Muharram and Ashoorah, Prophets, Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Ramadhan, Refutations, Repentance, Salaah - Prayer, Seeking Knowledge, Shi'a, Shirk, Sin, Sufis, Taraweeh, Worship - 'Ibaadah', Zakaat, Zuhd (Abstinence).

Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

The Ummah of Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, does not require anyone after him; their sole necessity is for someone to convey his teachings. The message of Muhammad is all-encompassing, universal, and (perfectly) preserved. This universality, comprehensiveness, and preservation are not confined to any (specific time, place, or circumstance); instead, they extend to all those to whom Muhammad was sent, as well as addressing all the fundamental and subsidiary matters of the religion.

Muhammad’s message is sufficient, all-encompassing, and universal—there is no requirement for anything beyond it. It has addressed every aspect of truth necessary for his Ummah in their knowledge and actions. Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, did not depart from this world without imparting to his Ummah all that they needed to know. He taught them the etiquettes of using the toilet, sexual relations, the etiquettes of sleep and waking, eating, drinking, and traveling. He acquainted them with the etiquettes of speech and silence; the etiquettes of keeping company with the people and seclusion. He acquainted them with matters regarding illness, good health, poverty and wealth, and all matters regarding life and death.

He described Allah’s throne, the angels, the jinn, the fire of hell, and the Day of Judgment in a way that made them feel as though they were witnessing these realities with the naked eye. He conveyed knowledge about their Lord, His Perfect Names and Attributes, emphasising that Allah is the only One who deserves their worship. He acquainted them with the ancient Prophets and their respective nations- the events that transpired between them as if one were witnessing those moments firsthand. He informed them of all the avenues leading to righteousness and the various paths of wrongdoing, both broadly and specifically, in a manner that no other prophet had conveyed to his people. He acquiainted them with death and will take place in the grave, whether they be of joy or torment. Additionally, he presented the evidences and proofs of Tawhid (pure Islamic Monotheism). He acquainted them with Prophethood and the matters concerning the Afterlife, while also countering all factions of disbelief and misguidance. He acquainted them with war strategies- how to confront the enemy, the way to achieve victory and conquests. If they were aware of and comprehended these matters appropriately, they would not be defeated by their adversary.

He acquainted them with the schemes of Iblees, the methods by which he seeks to influence them, and the strategies to counteract those schemes and plans. He acquainted them with the soul- its characteristics and faults- in such a manner that they are not in need of anyone else to tell them about it.

He instructed them on how to navigate their everyday existence, and had they recognized and implemented his teachings, their worldly matters would have been securely established. He provided them with all the means necessary for success in both this life and the hereafter, rendering them independent of any other guidance. Therefore, it is unfounded to assert that the path of Muhammad requires any external support. Such claims stem from a limited and insufficient understanding on the part of the individual. Allah said:

أَوَلَمْ يَكْفِهِمْ أَنَّا أَنزَلْنَا عَلَيْكَ الْكِتَابَ يُتْلَىٰ عَلَيْهِمْ ۚ إِنَّ فِي ذَٰلِكَ لَرَحْمَةً وَذِكْرَىٰ لِقَوْمٍ يُؤْمِنُونَ

Is it not sufficient for them that We have sent down to you the Book (the Qur’an) which is recited to them? Verily, herein is mercy and a reminder (or an admonition) for a people who believe. [29:51]

Allah [The Most High] said:
وَنَزَّلْنَا عَلَيْكَ الْكِتَابَ تِبْيَانًا لِّكُلِّ شَيْءٍ وَهُدًى وَرَحْمَةً وَبُشْرَىٰ لِلْمُسْلِمِينَ

And We have sent down to you the Book (the Qur’an) as an exposition of everything, a guidance, a mercy, and glad tidings for those who have submitted themselves (to Allah as Muslims)]. [16:89]

Allah [The Most High] said:
يَا أَيُّهَا النَّاسُ قَدْ جَاءَتْكُم مَّوْعِظَةٌ مِّن رَّبِّكُمْ وَشِفَاءٌ لِّمَا فِي الصُّدُورِ وَهُدًى وَرَحْمَةٌ لِّلْمُؤْمِنِينَ

O mankind! There has come to you a good advice from your Lord [i.e. the Qur’an, ordering all that is good and forbidding all that is evil], and a healing for that [disease of ignorance, doubt, hypocrisy and differences, etc.] in your breasts, – a guidance and a mercy [explaining lawful and unlawful things, etc.] for the believers. [10:57]

An Excerpt from “i’lam al-muwaqqi’in 4/375-377

The Impact of Love, Fear and Hope In The Worship and Behaviour of Muslim

Written by Salafi Dawah Manchester on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Basics, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Death, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Repentance, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, Sin, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy

Allah [The Most High] said:

وَمِنَ النَّاسِ مَن يَتَّخِذُ مِن دُونِ اللّهِ أَندَاداً يُحِبُّونَهُمْ كَحُبِّ اللّهِ وَالَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ أَشَدُّ حُبًّا لِّلّهِ

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). [2:165]

Imam As-Sadi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

The (true) believers love Allah more than the love that the idol worshippers have for the partners they associate with Allah in worship. This is because they (believers) have a pure and sincere love for Allah. As for the Mushrikoon, they associate partners with Allah in worship out of the love they have for their false objects of worship. The believers love The One (Allah) who deserves true love in reality, for true love of Allah is the very thing upon which depends the rectification of a person, his happiness and success. As for the Mushrikoon, they love those who are not worthy of being given any love, rather having love for such things is the very reason behind wretchedness, corruption and loss. [1]

The Believers Also Worship Allah with Fear and Hope!

Allah (The Most High) said:

إِنَّهُمْ كَانُوا يُسَارِعُونَ فِي الْخَيْرَاتِ وَيَدْعُونَنَا رَغَبًا وَرَهَبًا ۖ وَكَانُوا لَنَا خَاشِعِينَ

Verily, they (i.e. Prophets) used to hasten on to do good deeds, and they used to call on Us with hope and fear, and used to humble themselves before Us. [21:90]

Imam As-Sadi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

They used to hasten towards the performance of good deeds and carried them out in the most virtuous times. They carried out those good deeds in a befitting manner and in the manner it is obligated. They never left a virtuous deed they were able to perform; rather they took the opportunity to perform it. They used to call upon Allah with Hope and Fear – asking Allah for those good things that are desired in the worldly life and afterlife. They used to seek Allah’s Refuge from those frightening things that bring about harm in this life and the next. Thus, they had fear and hope, and they were not heedless, inattentive and arrogant. [2]

Love, Fear And Hope In Surah Al-Fatihah

These three pillars are the pillars of servitude of the heart and no act of worship is accepted except through them. Allah is to be worshipped out of love of Him, hoping for His reward and fearing His punishment. Allah [The Blessed and Most High] mentioned these pillars of worship in Surah Al Fatihah – the best Surah of the Qur’an.

Love as a pillar of worship is found in statement [الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَالَمِينَ – All the praises and thanks be to Allah, the Lord of the ‘Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exists)]. This is because Allah is the Bestower of all favours and the Bestower of blessings is loved in accordance with the favours He bestows, and [الْحَمْدُ] is to praise alongside having love for the one who is praised.

Hope as a pillar of worship is found in the statement [الرَّحْمَٰنِ الرَّحِيمِ -The Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful]. That is because the believer hopes for Allah’s Mercy and desires its attainment.

Fear as a pillar of worship is found in the statement [مَالِكِ يَوْمِ الدِّين -The Only Owner (and the Only Ruling Judge) of the Day of Recompense (i.e. the Day of Resurrection)]. [يَوْمِ الدِّين – The Day of Recompense] is the day of reckoning.

Then the statement [إِيَّاكَ نَعۡبُدُ وَإِيَّاكَ نَسۡتَعِينُ – You (Alone) we worship, and You (Alone) we ask for help (for each and everything)] follows thereafter, which means: O our Lord! We worship You based on those aforementioned pillars- love, hope and fear. These are the three pillars upon which[إِيَّاكَ نَعۡبُدُ وَإِيَّاكَ نَسۡتَعِينُ   is established. They have also been mentioned in Surah Al-Israa Verse 57:

[أُوْلَـٰٓٮِٕكَ ٱلَّذِينَ يَدۡعُونَ يَبۡتَغُونَ إِلَىٰ رَبِّهِمُ ٱلۡوَسِيلَةَ أَيُّہُمۡ أَقۡرَبُ وَيَرۡجُونَ رَحۡمَتَهُ ۥ وَيَخَافُونَ عَذَابَهُ ۥۤ‌ۚ إِنَّ عَذَابَ   -Those whom they call upon [like ‘Iesa (Jesus) – son of Maryam (Mary), ‘Uzair (Ezra), angel, etc.] desire (for themselves) means of access to their Lord (Allah), as to which of them should be the nearest and they [‘Iesa (Jesus), ‘Uzair (Ezra), angels, etc.] hope for His Mercy and fear His Torment].

In the above Ayah, the statement “desire (for themselves) means of access to their Lord (Allah)”  means seeking to get close to Allah through love and doing what He loves. Then Allah stated, “(They) hope for His Mercy and fear His Torment”. Therefore in this Ayah, love, fear and hope are mentioned, and likewise stated in Surah Al-Anbiyaa: [إِنَّهُمۡ ڪَانُواْ يُسَـٰرِعُونَ فِى ٱلۡخَيۡرَٲتِ وَيَدۡعُونَنَا رَغَبً۬ا وَرَهَبً۬ا‌ۖ وَڪَانُواْ لَنَا خَـٰشِعِينَ – Verily, they used to hasten on to do good deeds, and they used to call on Us with hope and fear, and used to humble themselves before Us].

Therefore, a slave (i.e. the one who worships Allah alone) must combine these three pillars [love, fear and hope] in his (or her) acts of worship and remembrance of Allah. It is not permissible to worship Allah with only one of them without the others, such as worshipping Allah with love alone without fear and hope, or worshipping Allah with hope alone, or worshipping Allah with fear alone. And due to this, some of the scholars said, ”Whoever worships Allah with love alone is a heretic and whoever worships Allah with fear alone is a Harooree (i.e. from the Khaarij), and whoever worships Allah with hope alone is a Murji, and whoever worships Allah with love, fear and hope is a believer and person of Tawheed. [3]

Al-Allamah Sahih Al-Fawzan, may Allah preserve him, said:

We should know that fear of Allah should be combined with love and hope, so that fear does not become a cause of giving up hope in Allah’s Mercy. A believer should have both fear of Allah and hope in Allah’s Mercy, so that fear alone does not lead him to give up hope in Allah’s mercy, nor will hope alone make feel secure from Allah’s plan. That is because giving up hope in Allah’s Mercy and feeling secure from Allah’s plan are two affairs that negate perfect Tawheed.  Allah [The Most High] said: [فَلَا يَأۡمَنُ مَڪۡرَ ٱللَّهِ إِلَّا ٱلۡقَوۡمُ ٱلۡخَـٰسِرُونَ – None feels secure from the Plan of Allah except the people who are the losers]. [7:99]

Allah [The Most High] said: [إِنَّهُ ۥ لَا يَاْيۡـَٔسُ مِن رَّوۡحِ ٱللَّهِ إِلَّا ٱلۡقَوۡمُ ٱلۡكَـٰفِرُونَ – Certainly no one despairs of Allah’s Mercy, except the people who disbelieve.” [12:87]

Allah said: [ وَمَن يَقۡنَطُ مِن رَّحۡمَةِ رَبِّهِۦۤ إِلَّا ٱلضَّآلُّونَ – “And who despairs of the Mercy of his Lord except those who are astray. [15:56]

Ismaa’eel Ibn Rafi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, “Feeling secure from Allah’s plan is when a servant of Allah is persistent in committing sin, whilst hoping for Allah’s forgiveness”. The Scholars say that despair is to distance oneself from having hope for relief and losing hope in that, and it is the opposite of feeling secure from Allah’s plan. Both these two matters are a great sin. It is neither permissible for a believer to adhere to fear alone, and thus despairs of Allah’s Mercy, nor should he adhere to hope alone, and thus feels secure from Allah’s punishment; rather he should have fear and hope – fearful due to his sins, performs acts of obedience to Allah and hopes for Allah’s Mercy, just as Allah [The Most High] stated:

إِنَّهُمۡ ڪَانُواْ يُسَـٰرِعُونَ فِى ٱلۡخَيۡرَٲتِ وَيَدۡعُونَنَا رَغَبً۬ا وَرَهَبً۬ا‌ۖ وَڪَانُواْ لَنَا خَـٰشِعِينَ

Verily, they used to hasten on to do good deeds, and they used to call on Us with hope and fear, and used to humble themselves before Us. [21:90]

Allah said: [ أُوْلَـٰٓٮِٕكَ ٱلَّذِينَ يَدۡعُونَ يَبۡتَغُونَ إِلَىٰ رَبِّهِمُ ٱلۡوَسِيلَةَ أَيُّہُمۡ أَقۡرَبُ وَيَرۡجُونَ رَحۡمَتَهُ ۥ وَيَخَافُونَ عَذَابَهُ ۥۤ‌ۚ إِنَّ عَذَابَ رَبِّكَ كَانَ مَحۡذُورً۬ا – Those whom they call upon [like ‘Iesa (Jesus) – son of Maryam (Mary), ‘Uzair (Ezra), angel, etc.] desire (for themselves) means of access to their Lord (Allah), as to which of them should be the nearest and they [‘Iesa (Jesus), ‘Uzair (Ezra), angels, etc.] hope for His Mercy and fear His Torment. Verily, the Torment of your Lord is something to be afraid of! [17:57]

When fear of Allah and hope in Allah are combined, it urges a slave (i.e. a worshipper of Allah) to perform deeds and utilise the beneficial means to that. Indeed. alongside having hope in Allah’s Mercy, he performs acts of obedience and hopes for reward; and by way of fear, he abandons disobedience due to being fearful of Allah’s punishment. But if he despairs of Allah’s Mercy, he may stop performing righteous deeds, and if he feels secure from Allah’s punishment, he is pushed towards acts of disobedience. [4]

Imam Ahmad, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: It is obligated to a person that his fear and hope are the same because if one of them is more than the other he is destroyed.”

Amongst the scholars are those who say that if you desire to perform an act of obedience, you should have more hope that Allah will accept it, raise your status by way of it and strengthen you. And if you desire to commit an act of disobedience, you should have more fear so that you do not fall into it. And amongst the scholars are those who say that fear and hope should be based on the circumstances of a person. If one is in a state of poor health, he should have more hope because the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “None of you should die except whilst having good thoughts about Allah”. This is because if one has overwhelming fear whilst he is in a state of poor health, it may lead him to despair of Allah’s Mercy. As for when one is in a state of good health, he should have more fear because a state of good health is a reason for corruption [i.e. it corrupts some people because they take it for granted and are ungrateful etc]. The best position – in my view – regarding this dangerous subject matter is that a person (approaches the affair) based on his circumstances and the position that is more precise is that a person should have more hope when he performs a good deed, and when he desires an evil deed, he should have more fear. [5]

We ask Allah:

اللَّهُمَّ أَصْلِحْ لِي دِينِي الَّذِي هُوَ عِصْمَةُ أَمْرِي

وَأَصْلِحْ لِي دُنْيَايَ الَّتِي فِيهَا مَعَاشِي

وَأَصْلِحْ لِي آخِرَتِي الَّتِي فِيهَا مَعَادِي

وَاجْعَلِ الْحَيَاةَ زِيَادَةً لِي فِي كُلِّ خَيْرٍ

وَاجْعَلِ الْمَوْتَ رَاحَةً لِي مِنْ كُلِّ شَرٍّ

O Allah! Rectify my religion for me, which is the safeguard of my affairs; rectify my worldly [affairs], wherein is my livelihood; and rectify my Afterlife to which is my return; and make life for me [as a means of] increase in every good and make death for me as a rest from every evil. [Sahih Muslim Number: 2720]

[1] An Excerpt from ‘Tayseer Al-kareem Ar-Rahmaan Fee Tafseer kalaam Al-Mannaan’ by Imaam Sadi’.

[2] An Excerpt from ‘Tayseer Al-kareem Ar-Rahmaan Fee Tafseer kalaam Al-Mannaan’ by Imaam Sadi.

[3] An Excerpt from Fiqhul Ad’iyah Wal-Adkaar’ 1/ 99-100

[4] Al-Irshaad Ilaa Saheeh Al-I’tiqaad War-Raddu Alaa Ahlish-Shirki Wal-Ilhaad’ pages 85. Publisher: Daarul Aasimah’ 1st ed  (Year 1423AH- year 2002

[5] Sharh Hilyati Talibal Ilm. Page 35-36. By Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih al-Uthaymin

Tremendous Hadith About The Sirat and Other Affairs In The Hereafter

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Basics, Death, Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Some of the companions of Abdullah Ibn Al-Mubarak,  may Allāh have mercy upon him, saw him contemplating and asked: “Where have you reached (in your contemplation)?” He said: “The Sirat (i.e. the bridge)”. [1]

A Tremendous Hadith About The Sirat and Other affairs on The Day of Judgement

Narrated Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him: The people said, “O Messenger of Allah! Shall we see our Lord on the Day of Resurrection?” He replied, “Do you have any doubt in seeing the full moon on a clear (not cloudy) night?” They replied, “No, O Allah’s Apostle!” He said, “Do you have any doubt in seeing the sun when there are no clouds?” They replied in the negative. He said, “You will see Allah (your Lord) in the same way. On the Day of Resurrection, people will be gathered and He will order the people to follow what they used to worship. So some of them will follow the sun, some will follow the moon, and some will follow other deities; and only this nation (Muslims) will be left with its hypocrites. Allah will come to them and say, ‘I am Your Lord.’ They will say, ‘We shall stay in this place till our Lord comes to us and when our Lord will come, we will recognize Him. Then Allah will come to them again and say, ‘I am your Lord.’ They will say, ‘You are our Lord.’ Allah will call them, and As-Sirat (a bridge) will be laid across Hell and I (Muhammad) shall be the first amongst the Messengers to cross it with my followers. Nobody except the Messengers will then be able to speak and they will be saying then, ‘O Allah! Save us. O Allah Save us.’ There will be hooks like the thorns of Sa’dan in Hell. Have you seen the thorns of Sa’dan?” The people said, “Yes.” He said, “These hooks will be like the thorns of Sa’dan but nobody except Allah knows their greatness in size and these will entangle the people according to their deeds; some of them will fall and stay in Hell forever; others will receive punishment (torn into small pieces) and will get out of Hell, till when Allah intends mercy on whomever He likes amongst the people of Hell, He will order the angels to take out of Hell those who worshipped none but Him alone. The angels will take them out by recognizing them from the traces of prostrations, for Allah has forbidden the (Hell) fire to eat away those traces. So they will come out of the Fire, it will eat away from the whole of the human body except the marks of the prostrations. At that time they will come out of the Fire as mere skeletons. The Water of Life will be poured on them and as a result they will grow like the seeds growing on the bank of flowing water. Then when Allah had finished from the Judgments amongst his creations, one man will be left between Hell and Paradise and he will be the last man from the people of Hell to enter paradise. He will be facing Hell, and will say, ‘O Allah! Turn my face from the fire as its wind has dried me and its steam has burnt me.’ Allah will ask him, “Will you ask for anything more in case this favor is granted to you?’ He will say, “No by Your (Honor) Power!” And he will give to his Lord (Allah) what he will of the pledges and the covenants. Allah will then turn his face from the Fire. When he will face Paradise and will see its charm, he will remain quiet as long as Allah will. He then will say, ‘O my Lord! Let me go to the gate of Paradise.’ Allah will ask him, ‘Didn’t you give pledges and make covenants (to the effect) that you would not ask for anything more than what you requested at first?’ He will say, ‘O my Lord! Do not make me the most wretched, amongst Your creatures.’ Allah will say, ‘If this request is granted, will you then ask for anything else?’ He will say, ‘No! By Your Power! I shall not ask for anything else.’ Then he will give to his Lord what He will of the pledges and the covenants. Allah will then let him go to the gate of Paradise. On reaching them and seeing its life, charm, and pleasure, he will remain quiet as long as Allah wills and then will say, ‘O my Lord ! Let me enter Paradise.’ Allah will say, May Allah be merciful unto you, O son of Adam! How treacherous you are! Haven’t you made covenants and given pledges that you will not ask for anything more than what you have been given?’ He will say, ‘O my Lord! Do not make me the most wretched amongst Your creatures.’ So Allah will laugh and allow him to enter Paradise and will ask him to request as much as he likes. He will do so till all his desires have been fulfilled. Then Allah will say, ‘Request more of such and such things.’ Allah will remind him and when all his desires and wishes have been fulfilled, Allah will say “All this is granted to you and a similar amount besides.” Abu Said Al-Khudri, said to Abu Huraira, ‘Allah’s Messenger said, “Allah said, ‘That is for you and ten times more like it.’ “Abu Huraira said, “I do not remember from Allah’s Messenger except (his saying), ‘All this is granted to you and a similar amount besides.” Abu Sahd said, “I heard him saying, ‘That is for you and ten times more the like of it.” [2]

We ask Allah:

اللَّهُمَّ أَصْلِحْ لِي دِينِي الَّذِي هُوَ عِصْمَةُ أَمْرِي

وَأَصْلِحْ لِي دُنْيَايَ الَّتِي فِيهَا مَعَاشِي

وَأَصْلِحْ لِي آخِرَتِي الَّتِي فِيهَا مَعَادِي

وَاجْعَلِ الْحَيَاةَ زِيَادَةً لِي فِي كُلِّ خَيْرٍ

وَاجْعَلِ الْمَوْتَ رَاحَةً لِي مِنْ كُلِّ شَرٍّ

O Allah! Rectify my religion for me, which is the safeguard of my affairs; rectify my worldly [affairs], wherein is my livelihood; and rectify my Afterlife to which is my return; and make life for me [as a means of] increase in every good and make death for me as a rest from every evil. [Saheeh Muslim Number: 2720] [3]

[1] Miftah Dar As-Sa’adah 1/180

[2] No. 771 (Sahihalbukhari.com)

[3] https://salafidawah.uk/2020/12/29/o-allaah-rectify-my-religion-for-me-which-the-safeguard-of-my-affairs-a-tremendous-supplication/

[3] The major catalysts behind the Ummah’s weakness and deterioration- By Imam Abdul Aziz Bin Baz

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Death, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Sahaabah, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, Seeking Knowledge, Shirk, Sin, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

Arabic text: weakness_part3

Imam Abdul Aziz Bin Baz – may Allah have mercy upon him- continued…..

When we know the disease, which is evident and apparent, just as we know the prevalence of ignorance, the lack of pursuit of knowledge and understanding of religion, turning away from the knowledge of the Shariah, the contentment with worldly sciences that merely serve as qualifications for employment, albeit feeble and inadequate sciences that only equip individuals for work within their country and state, rather than pursuing knowledge that would render us self-sufficient and not reliant on the enemies and failing to fulfil the command of Allah and avoid His displeasure, then it becomes obligatory to address the disease through the knowledge of the Shariah. This is because only a few people pay attention to the beneficial knowledge conveyed by the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and only a few people prepare against the enemies so that the people and the state can attain independence from them. The disease is evident and apparent, encompassing several remedies for the issues that have emerged, such as ignorance, turning away from the religion, and being heedless until the fear of death arose, and worldly given precedence and (became) more desirable, Jihad became a frightening specter appealing to only a few people, the objective shifted from upholding the word of Allah to pursuing nationalism, patriotism, or other objectives unrelated to the elevation of Allah’s word, instead of manifesting one’s religion and eradicating anything that opposes it.

Apart from what Allah wills (to remain in terms of strength, adherence to the religion, etc), the preparation is feeble or non-existent, and the objectives are misguided. Thus, the path to success and advancement in confronting the enemies, the absence of weakness, the path to prosperity and success, reaching high positions and noble aspirations, and prevailing over enemies, all lies in seeking beneficial knowledge, and pursuing understanding in the religion, prioritising Allah’s pleasure over His wrath, fulfilling obligations, avoiding prohibitions, sincerely repenting for past sins and shortcomings, complete cooperation between the state and the people in obeying Allah and His Messenger, refraining from what is forbidden, and preparing oneself as Allah says:

وَأَعِدُّوا لَهُمْ مَا اسْتَطَعْتُمْ مِنْ قُوَّةٍ

“And prepare against them whatever you are able of power” [Al-Anfal 60]

There must be physical and material preparation, as well as preparation in all other aspects so that we can depend on what Allah has bestowed upon us rather than what our enemies possess. It is very difficult to confront our enemies with what they possess. And if the enemy prevents you from acquiring weapons, what will you fight with, (especially when) coupled with weak insight and lack of knowledge? Therefore, it is crucial to prepare to the best of our abilities, and it would be enough as long as Muslims strive not to rely on their enemies, engage in Jihad against them, and safeguard their nations, with the intention of establishing Allah’s command and seeking the hereafter as much as possible. This is because Allah says:

وَأَعِدُّوا لَهُمْ مَا اسْتَطَعْتُمْ مِنْ قُوَّةٍ

“And prepare against them whatever you are able of power”.

Allah did did not say “And prepare against them like their power” because this may not be possible.
If the Muslims are truthful, unite, and prepare as much as they can against their enemies, and support the religion ordained by Allah, then Allah will help and grant them victory, exalted be He. He will place them in front of their enemies and above their enemies, not beneath them. Allah says, and He is truthful in His words and promises:

يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوٓا۟ إِن تَنصُرُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ يَنصُرْكُمْ وَيُثَبِّتْ أَقْدَامَكُمْ

O you who believe, if you aid (the cause of) Allāh, He will aid you (against your enemy) and make your foothold firm (upon faith and upon the straight path and against your enemy). https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/search/47_7

Allah is not powerless or in need of people, but He tests His righteous servants with the wicked, to make known between the truthful and the liars, the ones who strive in His path and others, otherwise, He is capable of supporting His allies and destroying His enemies without war, without the need for Jihad, preparation, and other means, as He says:

ذَلِكَ وَلَوْ يَشَاءُ اللَّهُ لانْتَصَرَ مِنْهُمْ وَلَكِنْ لِيَبْلُوَ بَعْضَكُمْ بِبَعْضٍ

That (is what you are commanded) and if Allāh had so willed, He could have punished (and destroyed) them (without you). But (He commanded you to fight against them) in order to test some of you with others. https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/verse/47/4

In Surah Al-Anfal, Allah says regarding the story of the battle of Badr:

[وَمَا جَعَلَهُ اللَّهُ إِلا بُشْرَى وَلِتَطْمَئِنَّ بِهِ قُلُوبُكُمْ – Allah made it only as glad tidings, and that your hearts be at rest therewith. [Al-Anfal. 10]

This means that He provided them with reinforcements from the angels. Allah says:

 وَمَا ٱلنَّصْرُ إِلَّا مِنْ عِندِ ٱللَّهِ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ عَزِيزٌ حَكِيمٌ

And there is no victory except from Allah. Verily, Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise.

Similarly, in a verse from Surah Al-Imran, Allah says:

وَمَا جَعَلَهُ ٱللَّهُ إِلَّا بُشْرَىٰ لَكُمْ وَلِتَطْمَئِنَّ قُلُوبُكُم بِهِۦ وَمَا ٱلنَّصْرُ إِلَّا مِنْ عِندِ ٱللَّهِ ٱلْعَزِيزِ ٱلْحَكِيمِ

Allah made it not but as a message of good news for you and as an assurance to your hearts. And there is no victory except from Allah, the All-Mighty, the All-Wise. [Aal Imran. 126]

Therefore, victory is from Him, the Almighty and Wise, but He, glorified be He, sends reinforcements through the angels, the provision of weapons, wealth, and a large number of troops are all reasons for victory, good tidings, and reassurance. However, victory is not solely dependent on these factors. Allah, glorified be He, says:

كَمْ مِنْ فِئَةٍ قَلِيلَةٍ غَلَبَتْ فِئَةً كَثِيرَةً بِإِذْنِ اللَّهِ وَاللَّهُ مَعَ الصَّابِرِينَ

“How often a small group overcame a mighty host by Allah’s Leave?” And Allah is with As-Sabirin (the patient ones, etc.). [Al-Baqarah. 249]

At the Battle of Badr, they were three hundred and thirteen, with little weaponry and riding animals. It is well-known that they possessed seventy camels, which they took turns riding. Their arsenal was meagre, with only two horses among them. On the other hand, the disbelievers’ army numbered around a thousand, equipped with immense power and numerous weapons. However, when Allah desired their defeat, He vanquished them, rendering their strength and soldiers useless. Despite their feeble forces, Allah defeated the thousand with the three hundred and thirteen. Through the facilitation, victory, and support of Allah, they emerged victorious, capturing seventy disbelievers and eliminating seventy others, while the remaining disbelievers were defeated. All of this is from Allah’s signs and His aid. On the day of the Confederates, the disbelievers embarked upon a military expedition against the city of Madina with ten thousand fighters from various Arab tribes including the Quraysh and others. They besieged the city and the Prophet dug the trench, which was one of the reasons for the decisive victory. They stayed for a while besieging the city, and then Allah removed them without any fighting. He instilled fear in their hearts and unleashed winds and hosts upon them until they had no choice but to retreat defeated to their lands. All of this was from Allah’s aid and assistance, Glorified and Exalted is He. Then they were abandoned and did not attack the Prophet in Madina, rather he attacked them on the day of Hudaybiyyah, and the famous treaty was concluded. Then he attacked them in the eighth year in Ramadan and Allah opened Makkah for him. After that, people entered into the religion in large numbers.

The intended message is that Allah, the Exalted, holds the key to victory and serves as the protector of His followers. However, Allah, the Exalted, has prescribed certain means to attain victory, with the most significant being obedience to Allah and His Messenger. A crucial aspect of this obedience is that you acquire knowledge and understanding of the religion so that you are acquainted with Allah’s Judgement and His Shariah in the context of Jihad against your enemy, in preparing yourself for your enemy, in refraining from engaging in what Allah has prohibited, in fulfilling the obligations set by Allah, in adhering to the boundaries established by Allah, in collaborating with fellow Muslims, in offering valuable contributions from oneself and one’s wealth in the cause of Allah, and in supporting the religion ordained by Allah and elevating His word, and not merely (doing so) for a specific country or nationality.

This is the way and the path to victory over the enemies for the leader, the subjects, the elder, and the youth, through religious education and understanding of the religion ordained by Allah. Then, acting accordingly and abandoning what we are doing that Allah has forbidden. Allah says:

إِنَّ اللَّهَ لا يُغَيِّرُ مَا بِقَوْمٍ حَتَّى يُغَيِّرُوا مَا بِأَنْفُسِهِمْ

“Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves” [Ar-Ra’d: 11]

Therefore, whoever wants victory, support, and the elevation of Allah’s word must change what they are doing in terms of sins and disobedience that is in opposition to Allah’s command. Your Lord, Exalted and glorified be He, says:

وَعَدَ اللَّهُ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا مِنْكُمْ وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ لَيَسْتَخْلِفَنَّهُمْ فِي الْأَرْضِ كَمَا اسْتَخْلَفَ الَّذِينَ مِنْ قَبْلِهِمْ وَلَيُمَكِّنَنَّ لَهُمْ دِينَهُمُ الَّذِي ارْتَضَى لَهُمْ وَلَيُبَدِّلَنَّهُمْ مِنْ بَعْدِ خَوْفِهِمْ أَمْنًا يَعْبُدُونَنِي لا يُشْرِكُونَ بِي شَيْئًا

Allah has promised those among you who believe, and do righteous good deeds, that He will certainly grant them succession to (the present rulers) in the earth, as He granted it to those before them, and that He will grant them the authority to practice their religion, that which He has chosen for them (i.e. Islam). And He will surely give them in exchange a safe security after their fear (provided) they (believers) worship Me and do not associate anything (in worship) with Me. But whoever disbelieved after this, they are the Fasiqun (rebellious, disobedient to Allah). [An-Nur. 55]
Allah did not say: “Allah has promised those who are affiliated with Quraysh or Arabs or those who build palaces and extract petroleum… etc., but rather linked the promise to sincere faith and righteous deeds whether they are Arabs or non-Arabs.

These are the factors for victory and succession on earth, not Arabism or non-Arabism, but rather sincere faith in Allah and His Messenger and righteous deeds. This is the reason, the condition, and the axis around which it revolves. Whoever adheres to it will have empowerment, succession on earth, and victory over enemies. Whoever deviates from that is not guaranteed victory, safety, or honour; rather, a disbeliever may triumph over another disbeliever, a criminal over another criminal, or a hypocrite over another hypocrite. However, the guaranteed victory promised by Allah to His believing servants over their enemies is only achieved through the conditions set by Him, and the qualities He has clarified, which are sincere faith and righteous deeds. This is how the religion of Allah is victorious, as He has says:

وَلَيَنْصُرَنَّ اللَّهُ مَنْ يَنْصُرُهُ إِنَّ اللَّهَ لَقَوِيٌّ عَزِيزٌ
الَّذِينَ إِنْ مَكَّنَّاهُمْ فِي الْأَرْضِ أَقَامُوا الصَّلاةَ وَآتَوُا الزَّكَاةَ وَأَمَرُوا بِالْمَعْرُوفِ وَنَهَوْا عَنِ الْمُنْكَرِ

Verily, Allah will help those who help His (Cause). Truly, Allah is All-Strong, All-Mighty. Those (Muslim rulers) who, if We give them power in the land, (they) order for Iqamat-as-Salat. [i.e. to perform the five compulsory congregational Salat (prayers) (the males in mosques)], to pay the Zakat and they enjoin Al-Ma’ruf (i.e. Islamic Monotheism and all that Islam orders one to do), and forbid Al-Munkar (i.e. disbelief, polytheism and all that Islam has forbidden) [i.e. they make the Quran as the law of their country in all the spheres of life]. And with Allah rests the end of (all) matters (of creatures). [Al-Hajj. 40-41]

This is the victory of the religion ordained by Allah. Whoever enjoins what is good and forbids what is evil has indeed achieved the victory of the religion ordained by Allah. This includes fulfilling the obligations set by Allah and abstaining from what Allah has prohibited. And Allah, the Most High, says:

كُنْتُمْ خَيْرَ أُمَّةٍ أُخْرِجَتْ لِلنَّاسِ تَأْمُرُونَ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ وَتَنْهَوْنَ عَنِ الْمُنْكَرِ وَتُؤْمِنُونَ بِاللَّهِ

You [true believers in Islamic Monotheism, and real followers of Prophet Muhammad SAW and his Sunnah (legal ways, etc.)] are the best of peoples ever raised up for mankind; you enjoin Al-Ma’ruf (i.e. Islamic Monotheism and all that Islam has ordained) and forbid Al-Munkar (polytheism, disbelief, and all that Islam has forbidden), and you believe in Allah. [Aal Imran 110]

And He, Glorified be He, says:

وَلْتَكُنْ مِنْكُمْ أُمَّةٌ يَدْعُونَ إِلَى الْخَيْرِ وَيَأْمُرُونَ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ وَيَنْهَوْنَ عَنِ الْمُنْكَرِ وَأُولَئِكَ هُمُ الْمُفْلِحُونَ

Let there arise out of you a group of people inviting to all that is good (Islam), enjoining Al-Ma’ruf (i.e. Islamic Monotheism and all that Islam orders one to do) and forbidding Al-Munkar (polytheism and disbelief and all that Islam has forbidden). And it is they who are the successful. [Aal Imran 104]

The righteous who are to receive success, support, and a praiseworthy outcome are those who do good deeds, enjoin what is good, forbid what is evil, establish prayer, give charity, and aid Allah’s cause. They are the ones mentioned in the verse:

وَكَانَ حَقًّا عَلَيْنَا نَصْرُ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ

“And (as for) the believers it was incumbent upon Us to help (them). [Ar-Rum. 47]

The cure is clear and the treatment is evident, but where are those who seek the cure? Where are those who seek the treatment? And where are those who apply it?!

This is the obligation of the rulers, the scholars, and the influential and important personalities everywhere, and in all Islamic countries if they are sincere in calling to Islam; by establishing prayer, giving zakat, preserving that, enjoining good, forbidding evil, pursuing understanding in the religion, reforming curricula in schools at all levels, and also cooperating in unity against enemies and uniting with sincerity to Allah in work and truthfulness in it, and intending the Hereafter. By doing so, they deserve victory from Allah and His support, as our righteous predecessors did, which is not hidden from the people of knowledge. Just yesterday, when the reviver of the signposts of Islam in the twelfth century witnessed the great ignorance, the nullification of rulings of the Shariah, the abundance of ignorance in the peninsula and elsewhere, the scarcity of callers to Allah, and the division of the people of this peninsula into small states without guidance and knowledge, he believed (or saw) that it was his duty to call people to Allah, to warn them of the dangers they faced, and to strive to unite them on the truth under one leader who would establish the command of Allah among them. So, he diligently worked towards this goal, calling people to Allah, contacting rulers, writing letters about pure Islamic monotheism and the implementation of Allah’s law, and the abandonment of polytheism. He did not cease being patient and steadfast in his mission, seeking reward from Allah after studying and gaining knowledge of religion from scholars. He then focused on calling people to Allah and Jihad, starting in Huraymila, then Al-Aynah, before moving to Diriyah where he pledged allegiance to Muhammad Bin Saud for jihad and establishing the command of Allah. They all believed in this cause, united, and fought against their weaknesses until Allah granted them victory. They proclaimed pure Islamic monotheism, called people to truth and guidance, and implemented Allah’s law among His servants. Due to their sincerity, reliance on Allah, and good intentions, Allah supported and aided them, and their stories are known to many with even the slightest insight.

Then, after the period of stagnation and division that occurred, King Abdulaziz, may Allah have mercy on him, emerged and took charge of this matter with diligence and zeal. He sought the help of Allah and then turned to the people of knowledge, faith, and insight. Allah supported and aided him, and united for him the word of the Muslims in this peninsula on one word, upon judging by Allah’s Shariah and Jihad in the cause of Allah, until its affair was straightened, thus this peninsula (from its north to its south, east, and west) united on truth and guidance with the means of truthfulness, Jihad, and elevation of the word of Allah – the Exalted. The point is that there are many examples of that. Similarly, Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi’s story is well-known, as is that of Mahmud Zanki. The point is that our righteous predecessors, due to being truthful in their jihad during the time of their Prophet and afterward, Allah honoured them and elevated their status. They conquered the two great kingdoms – the Persian and the Roman Kingdom in the Levant and its surroundings. Then, those who followed them in the religion ordained by Allah, Allah granted them victory due to their sincerity and unity in upholding the word of Allah. Subsequently, at various times, individuals emerged with truthfulness and what they possessed of sincerity, so Allah supported and helped them against their enemies according to their level of sincerity, striving, and sacrifice.

The Almighty, Allah, is the one who granted victory to the early and later believers. He is the one who supports those who aid His cause and forsakes those who forsake Him, as Allah says:

أَلَيْسَ اللَّهُ بِكَافٍ عَبْدَهُ

“Is not Allah sufficient for His Servant?” [Az-Zumar: 36]

And He, glorified be He, says:

وَإِنْ تَصْبِرُوا وَتَتَّقُوا لا يَضُرُّكُمْ كَيْدُهُمْ شَيْئًا

“And if you are patient and fear Allah, their plot will not harm you at all.” [Aal-Imran. 120]

And the Almighty says:
كَمْ مِنْ فِئَةٍ قَلِيلَةٍ غَلَبَتْ فِئَةً كَثِيرَةً بِإِذْنِ اللَّهِ وَاللَّهُ مَعَ الصَّابِرِينَ

“How often a small group overcame a mighty host by Allah’s Leave?” And Allah is with As-Sabirin (the patient ones, etc.). [Al-Baqarah: 249]

However, the calamity is due to our own doings as Allah -The Almighty says:

وَمَا أَصَابَكُمْ مِنْ مُصِيبَةٍ فَبِمَا كَسَبَتْ أَيْدِيكُمْ وَيَعْفُو عَنْ كَثِيرٍ

“And whatever misfortune befalls you, it is because of what your hands have earned. And He pardons much.” [Ash-Shurah 30].

The calamity occurred from the Muslims’ weakness, laziness, ignorance, seeking immediate gains, love of the worldly life (at the expense of one’s religious well-being), fear of death, neglecting Allah’s commands, forsaking the prayers, following desires, prioritising worldly life, engaging in forbidden acts, listening to obscene songs, and corrupters of the hearts and morals… and so on. Allah, allowed the Muslims to be overcome by their enemies through this and similar circumstances, as He says:

وَإِذَا أَرَدْنَا أَنْ نُهْلِكَ قَرْيَةً أَمَرْنَا مُتْرَفِيهَا فَفَسَقُوا فِيهَا فَحَقَّ عَلَيْهَا الْقَوْلُ فَدَمَّرْنَاهَا تَدْمِيرًا

And when We decide to destroy a town (population), We (first) send a definite order (to obey Allah and be righteous) to those among them [or We (first) increase in number those of its population] who are given the good things of this life. Then, they transgress therein, and thus the word (of torment) is justified against it (them). Then We destroy it with complete destruction. [Al-Israa. 16]
We ask Allah- The Almighty- to favour us and all Muslims and their leaders with repentance and adherence to His commandments, cooperation in righteousness and piety, and preparation against our enemies with the necessary things, the pursuit of understanding in the religion, patience in following what is pleasing to Him and distance from His displeasure. We also ask Him, the Exalted, to protect us all from all the pitfalls of trials and tribulations, and the causes of His wrath, and to support the religion He has ordained and elevate His word; frustrate His enemies and unite the Muslims upon truth and guidance. May He rectify the affairs of our leaders and grant them insight. Truly, He is All-Hearer, Ever Near (to all things by His perfect knowledge).

May Allah send salutations (of peace and blessings upon) our master Muhammad, his family, and companions.

The End

Source: Majmoo Fataawaa Wa Maqaalaat Shaikh Ibn Baz 5/101

We welcome your feedback to enhance this translation.

I ask Allah to bless my beloved Salafi brother, bosom buddy, and colleague Ustaadh Abu Tasneem Mushaf Al-Banghali for recommending the translation of this article.

Read the article by Shaikh Abu Khadeejah transmitted from Al-Allamah Salih Al-Fawzan:

Salafi Shaikh Fawzaan on Jihad in our times and the guidelines of Jihad according to Islam

Strive for the Hereafter and Do Not Procrastinate – Shaykh Khalid Adh-Dhufayri

Written by abuaisha on . Posted in Articles, Basics, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Death, Jahannam (Hell Fire), Jannah (Paradise), Purification of The Soul.

O servants of Allah! Remember that this abode is that of trials, tribulations and tests, so walk the path to the afterlife and beware of procrastination and negligence. Do not be among those who hope for (reward) in the afterlife without deeds, delaying repentance because of continued eagerness for this world and preoccupied with it. Indeed, the appointed time of death is hidden and death comes suddenly, so do not be deceived by Allah’s Forbearance because Allah gives respite but does not forget, and indeed Paradise and Hellfire are closer to you than your shoelaces.

Shaykh Abu Abdillah Khalid adh-Dhufayri (Allah preserve him).

Weaponizing Basic Necessities and Seeking to Assume Authority Over Life and Death- [An Inheritance of Netanyahu’s Zionist Far-right Regime From the Obstinate Polytheists and Callous Despots of Bygone Eras]

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Categories, Contemporary Issues, Death, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Refutations, Shirk, Sin.

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Allah [The Exalted] says:

أَلَمْ تَرَ إِلَى الَّذِي حَاجَّ إِبْرَاهِيمَ فِي رَبِّهِ أَنْ آتَاهُ اللَّهُ الْمُلْكَ إِذْ قَالَ إِبْرَاهِيمُ رَبِّيَ الَّذِي يُحْيِي وَيُمِيتُ قَالَ أَنَا أُحْيِي وَأُمِيتُ ۖ قَالَ إِبْرَاهِيمُ فَإِنَّ اللَّهَ يَأْتِي بِالشَّمْسِ مِنَ الْمَشْرِقِ فَأْتِ بِهَا مِنَ الْمَغْرِبِ فَبُهِتَ الَّذِي كَفَرَ ۗ وَاللَّهُ لَا يَهْدِي الْقَوْمَ الظَّالِمِينَ

Have you not seen (contemplated with your heart) him who disputed with Ibrahim (Abraham) about his Lord (Allah), because Allah had given him the kingdom? When Ibrahim (Abraham) said (to him): “My Lord (Allah) is He Who gives life and causes death.” He said, “I give life and cause death.” Ibrahim (Abraham) said, “Verily! Allah causes the sun to rise from the east; then cause it you to rise from the west.” So the disbeliever was utterly defeated. And Allah guides not the people, who are Zalimun (wrong-doers, etc.). [Surah Al-Baqarah. Ayah 258]

Imam Al-Baghawi [may Allah have mercy upon him] stated that there is a difference of opinion among Qur’an commentators regarding the timing of this debate. Muqatil [may Allah have mercy upon him] mentioned that when Ibraahim [peace be upon him] destroyed the idols, Namrood imprisoned him and later attempted to burn him with fire. Namrood asked Ibraaheem [peace be upon him], “Who is your Lord that you call us to worship?” Ibraaheem [peace be upon him] replied, “My Lord is the one who gives life and causes death.” Other commentators suggest that this incident occurred after Ibraaheem [peace be upon him] was thrown into the fire. Subsequently, people suffered from drought and would seek food from Namrood. When a man approached Namrood for food, he would inquire, “Who is your Lord?” If the man responded, “You are my Lord,” Namrood would agree to sell him food. [1]

[أَلَمۡ تَرَ إِلَى ٱلَّذِى حَآجَّ إِبۡرَٲهِـۧمَ فِى رَبِّهِۦۤ – Have you seen (contemplated with your heart and eyes) him who disputed with Ibrahim (Abraham) about his Lord (Allah)]- Meaning, his impudence, ignorance, and obstinacy, along with his incessant arguments on matters that are unquestionable?! His behaviour can only be attributed to the fact that “Allah had bestowed upon him the kingdom,” thus he exceeded his limits, rebelled, and even went as far as challenging Prophet Ibraaheem on Allah’s sovereignty, arrogantly claiming that he possessed the same power as Allah.

Prophet Ibraheem said to him, “My Lord is He Who gives life and death” – Meaning, Allah is the sole authority over everything, then Ibraaheem specifically mentioned two significant matters – life and death – as they hold the utmost importance in Allah’s complete control. This is because the bestowal of life marks the commencement of worldly existence, while death signifies the beginning of what awaits in the afterlife. Hence, the individual who attempted to dispute Ibraaheem’s statement asserted, “I possess the ability to grant life and cause death,” but never proclaimed, “I am The One Who grants life and death.” This is because he could not assert that he did not require any external intervention in these matters. Instead, he merely claimed that he could replicate what Allah does by taking someone’s life or sparing it.

Prophet Ibraaheem recognised the flaw in his opponent’s argument and the statement he uttered, which is not even worthy of being a doubt let alone proof. Ibraaheem then responded by stating, “Indeed, Allah causes the sun to rise from the east.” This statement was something that could be observed and confirmed by everyone, including the disbeliever. Ibraaheem further challenged him by saying, “Then cause it to rise from the west.” This compelled the disbeliever to provide evidence if he truly believed in his claim. However, the disbeliever was unable to present any ambiguity to undermine Ibraaheem’s proof or find any fault with it. As a result, he was completely defeated, unable to respond, and his argument crumbled. [2] The One who has power over life and death (Allah) possesses complete authority over all creation, bringing forth everything within it, including full control over the planets and their orbits. As the sun consistently rises in the east each day, if you truly were a deity who grants life and administers death, then command the sun to rise from the west. [3]

This describes a stubborn liar who seeks to challenge the truth and emerge victorious, as he will ultimately be vanquished and humbled. This is why Allah says: [وَٱللَّهُ لَا يَہۡدِى ٱلۡقَوۡمَ ٱلظَّـٰلِمِينَ – And Allah guides not the people, who are Zalimun (wrong-doers, etc.)]; rather He abandons them to their disbelief and misguidance. [4]

 

The Quraish Starved The Prophet and His Near Relatives

Abu Hurairah [may Allah be pleased with him] reported: On the Day of Nahr at Mina, the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, “Tomorrow we shall stay at Khaif Bani Kinana where the pagans had taken the oath of disbelief”. He meant (by that place) Al-Muhassab where the Quraish tribe and Banu Kinaanah concluded a contract against Banu Haashim and Banu Abdul-Muttalib or Banu Al-Muttalib that they would not intermarry with them or deal with them in business until they handed over the Prophet to them. [5]

Usaamah Bin Zayd [may Allah be pleased with him] said: I asked the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] during his Hajj, “O Allah’s Messenger! Where will you stay tomorrow?” He said, “Has Aqeel left for us any house?” He then added, “Tomorrow we will stay at Khaif Bani Kinana, i.e. Al-Muhassab, where Quraish (polytheists) took an oath of disbelief in that Banu Kinaanah allied with Quraish against Banu Hashim on the terms that they would not deal with the members of the tribe or give them shelter”. [6]

The incident mentioned in the above narrations took place when the Makkan polytheists had a meeting at a place called the Valley of Al-Muhassab, where they established an alliance against Banu Haashim and Banu Al-Muttalib. They agreed not to have any business transactions with them, no marriage ties, no visits, and no verbal communication with the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] and those who aided him. So, Abu Taalib – the Prophet’s uncle who stood by him at the time – decided to move to a valley in the eastern suburbs of Makkah, then Banu Haashim and Banu Al-Muttalib also moved and they were all confined to a narrow passage. They remained in that situation for three years- from the 7th year of the Prophet’s Prophethood until the 10th year. It was a very repressive embargo that brought extreme hardship, and in addition to this, the vile polytheists bought everything that reached Makkah so that nothing reached Banu Al-Mutallib and Banu Haashim. The situation became so bad that they had to eat the leaves of trees and animal skins, and children constantly cried due to hunger. They had nothing besides very little provision that was sometimes delivered secretly by some people in Makkah who sympathised with them. During the sacred months when fighting was not permitted, they used to go and buy provisions, but the prices of goods were inflated so that they would not be able to afford them. However, this great hardship never stopped the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] from calling to the truth, rather he used to go to the Ka‘bah and call people to Islam. By the grace of Allah, the agreement between the polytheists ended in the 10th year of the Prophet’s Prophethood because some of them could no longer bear to see their relatives in that situation. [7]

 

The Excellent Character of The Prophet When Allah Gave Him The Upper Hand

Abu Hurairah [may Allah be pleased with him] reported: “The Prophet sent a troop of fighters towards Najd and they brought a man from the tribe of Banu Haneefah who was called Thumamah bin Uthaal. He was then tied to one of the pillars of the Masjid. The Prophet went to him and said, “What have you got, O Thumama?” He replied, “I have got a good thought, O Muhammad! If you should kill me, you would kill a person who has already killed somebody, and if you should set me free, you would do a favor to one who is grateful, and if you want property, then ask me whatever wealth you want.” So, he was left till the next day when again the Prophet (ﷺ) said to him, “What have you got, O Thumama?” He said, “What I have already told you”. The Prophet (ﷺ) left him till the day after, and said to him again, “What have you got, O Thumama?” He said, “I have got what I told you. So the Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Set him free”. Then Thumamah) went to a garden of date palm trees near the Masjid, took a bath, entered the Masjid, and then said, “I testify that None has the right to be worshipped except Allah, and also testify that Muhammad is His Messenger! By Allah, O Muhammad! There was no face on the surface of the earth most disliked by me than yours, but now your face has become the most beloved face to me. By Allah, there was no religion more disliked by me than yours, but now it is the most beloved religion to me. By Allah, there was no town more disliked by me than your town, but now it is the most beloved town to me. Your troops arrested me (at the time) when I was intending to perform the `Umra. And now what do you think?” The Prophet (ﷺ) gave him good tidings of good in this world and the next, and ordered him to perform the `Umra. So when he came to Makkah, someone said to him, “You have become a Sabian?” He replied, “No! By Allah, I have submitted to Islam with Muhammad, Allaah’s Messenger. No, by Allah! Not a single grain of wheat will come to you from Yamamah unless the Prophet gives his permission”. [8]

The Prophet asked Thumaamah, “What have you got O Thumaamah?” He replied that he has good thoughts about the Prophet- Meaning, “You O Muhammad never oppress anyone, rather you are from those who pardon and do good”. So after he was set free, he entered Makkah to perform Umrah and then pronounced the Talbilya and was the first to enter Makkah in that manner, so Quraish grabbed him and said, “You dare to do this to us”, and they wanted to kill him; then a person amongst the Quraish said, “Leave him because you need food from Yamaamah (i.e. from his land)”, so they released him. Then he said to them, “By Allah! Not a single grain of wheat will come to you from Yamamah unless the Prophet gives his permission.” Ibn Hishaam said, “Then Thumaamah returned to Yamaamah and prevented the Quraish from bringing any food to Makkah, so the Quraish wrote to the Prophet saying, “Indeed, you command people to keep good the ties of kinship”, so the Prophet wrote to Thumaamah to allow them to transport their food”.

 

This hadeeth provides the following benefits:

[I] It is permissible for the Muslim ruler to imprison an unbeliever prisoner of war in the Masjid due to some benefit; the permissibility of allowing an unbeliever in the Masjid to drink water and listen to lectures.

[II] To treat a non-Muslim prisoner of war kindly. Even though Thumaamah was an arch-enemy, he was forgiven, and this shows the great virtue of forgiveness. When the Prophet saw that Thumaamaah was constantly having good thoughts, he pardoned him and this was a pardon in its right place and perfect circumstances. This also shows that the Muslim ruler can pardon a non-Muslim prisoner of war due to an overriding benefit or execute him based on an overriding benefit.

[III] In this hadeeth, we also learn that one should closely watch those prisoners of war who desire to accept Islam, especially those amongst them who – when they accept Islam, others will follow them. [9]

 

True Believers’ Attitude Towards Feeding Those in Need, Including Captured Combatants

Allah [The Exalted] informs us of some of the qualities of the Abraar [The pious, who fear Allah and avoid evil]: ويُطۡعِمُونَ ٱلطَّعَامَ عَلَىٰ حُبِّهِۦ – And they give food, despite their love for it]- Meaning, they are in a state in which they love wealth and food, but they give precedence to the love of Allah over the what their souls love and seek to feed the people who deserve and need it the most; [مِسۡكِينً۬ا وَيَتِيمً۬ا وَأَسِيرًا – the Miskin (poor), the orphan, and the captive (10)]; saying, [إِنَّمَا نُطۡعِمُكُمۡ لِوَجۡهِ ٱللَّهِ -We feed you seeking Allah’s Countenance only. We wish for no reward, nor thanks from you] – Meaning, to seek Allah’s Reward. Mujaahid and Ibn Jubayr [may Allah have mercy upon them] said, “As for these people, they did not utter this statement, but Allah knows this is what is in their hearts, so He praised them for it as an exhortation for the one who desires to do so”. [لَا نُرِيدُ مِنكُمۡ جَزَآءً۬ – We wish for no reward]- Meaning, by way of actions; [وَلَا شُكُورًا – nor thanks]- Meaning, by way of statement. [11]
[إِنَّا نَخَافُ مِن رَّبِّنَا يَوۡمًا عَبُوسً۬ا قَمۡطَرِيرً۬ا – Verily, We fear from our Lord a Day, hard and distressful, that will make the faces look horrible (from extreme dislikeness to it)].

[فَوَقَٮٰهُمُ ٱللَّهُ شَرَّ ذَٲلِكَ ٱلۡيَوۡمِ وَلَقَّٮٰهُمۡ نَضۡرَةً۬ وَسُرُورً۬ا – So Allah saved them from the evil of that Day, and gave them Nadratan (a light of beauty) and joy]. [Surah Al-Insaan. Ayaat 8-11]

Indeed, the path of Allaah Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] is the only perfect path to follow in all affairs. We’ve witnessed and heard – in our era – the brutal manner in which Netanyahu’s Zionist Far-right regime continues to murder, starve, and brutalise Palestinians with impunity. O Allah! Send the obstinate disbeliever Netanyahu and his henchmen your swift justice from above, below, on their right, left, in front, and behind; and grant our Palestinian brothers and sisters complete relief that leaves no trace of this painful affliction Aameen.

Truly, the guidance of Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings be upon him] is the sole flawless path to adhere to in every aspect. In our present time, we have witnessed and heard of the merciless methods employed by Netanyahu’s Zionist Far-right government, which persistently inflicts violence, starvation, and oppression upon the Palestinians without facing any consequences. O Allah! May you swiftly administer your divine justice upon the stubborn disbeliever Netanyahu and his accomplices, from every direction – above, below, right, left, in front, and behind. Grant our Palestinian brothers and sisters complete relief, eradicating every trace of this agonising affliction. Aameen. Nevertheless, we do not condone any acts of violence towards civilians and non-combatants by individuals who identify as Muslim, regardless of their beliefs or race.

Read article by Shaikh Abu Iyaadh [may Allah preserve him]:

Just Rules of Fighting in the Sharīʿah of Islām Compared to Genocidal, Ethnic-Cleansing, Tribal-Vengeance Doctrines and Excesses of Trojan-Horse Muslim Extremists

https://abuiyaad.com/a/amalekite-genocide-doctrine-gaza

[1] An Excerpt from “Tafseer Al-Baghawi”

[2] An Excerpt from “Tafseer As-Sadi”

[3] An Excerpt from “Tafseer Ibn Katheer”

[4] An Excerpt from “Tafseer As-Sadi”

[5] Saheeh al-Bukhaari. Hadeeth Number 1590

[6] Al-Bukhaari. Hadeeth Number 3058

[7] Zaadul Ma’aadh 3/31 and Seerah Ibn Hishaam 1/350

[8] Al-Bukhaari. Number 4372

[9] Fat-hul Baaree Sharh Saheeh Al-Bukhaari Vol 8. Pages 110-111 and Al-Hulalul Ibreeziyyah Min at-taleeqaat al-Baaziyyah Alaa Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree vol 3. Page 319]

[10] Tafseer As-Sadi

[11] Zaadul Maseer Fee Ilmit Tafseer

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NEW VIDEO! What Is the Ruling on Giving Charity for the Deceased? – Shaykh Fawzaan

Written by Salafi Dawah Manchester on . Posted in Charity (Sadaqah), Death, Family & Women, Fatawa-Rulings, Video, Worship - 'Ibaadah', Zakaat.

 

Question: What is the ruling on giving charity on behalf of the deceased? And will they benefit from it?

 

Watch the full video for the Shaykh's answer!

 

Links 🔗 from Video – salafidawah.uk/Online – Online Quran Lessons Salafischool.co.uk/online – Online Full Day Classes – TuitionClub.org/Online

 

The True Reality of This Worldly Life!

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Death, Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allaah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Allaah [The Exalted] said:

وَٱللَّهُ خَلَقَكُمْ ثُمَّ يَتَوَفَّىٰكُمْ ۚ وَمِنكُم مَّن يُرَدُّ إِلَىٰٓ أَرْذَلِ ٱلْعُمُرِ لِكَىْ لَا يَعْلَمَ بَعْدَ عِلْمٍۢ شَيْـًٔا ۚ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ عَلِيمٌ قَدِيرٌ

And Allah has created you and then He will cause you to die, and of you there are some who are sent back to senility, so that they know nothing after having known (much). Truly! Allah is All-Knowing, All-Powerful. [Surah An-Nahl. Aayah 70]

Allaah (The Most High) said: [أَيْنَمَا تَكُونُوا يُدْرِكْكُمُ الْمَوْتُ وَلَوْ كُنْتُمْ فِي بُرُوجٍ مُشَيَّدَةٍ – Wheresoever you may be, death will overtake you even if you are in fortresses built up strong and high!] [Surah An-Nisaa. Aayah 78]

Allaah (The Most High) said:

نَحْنُ قَدَّرْنَا بَيْنَكُمُ الْمَوْتَ وَمَا نَحْنُ بِمَسْبُوقِينَ
عَلَىٰ أَنْ نُبَدِّلَ أَمْثَالَكُمْ وَنُنْشِئَكُمْ فِي مَا لَا تَعْلَمُونَ
وَلَقَدْ عَلِمْتُمُ النَّشْأَةَ الْأُولَىٰ فَلَوْلَا تَذَكَّرُونَ

We have decreed death to you all, and We are not unable. To transfigure you and create you in (forms) that you know not. And indeed, you have already known the first form of creation (i.e. the creation of Adam), why then do you not remember or take heed? [Surah Al-Waaqi’ah. Aayaat 60-62]

Allaah [The Mighty and Majestic] said:

وَهُوَ الْقَاهِرُ فَوْقَ عِبَادِهِ ۖ وَيُرْسِلُ عَلَيْكُمْ حَفَظَةً حَتَّىٰ إِذَا جَاءَ أَحَدَكُمُ الْمَوْتُ تَوَفَّتْهُ رُسُلُنَا وَهُمْ لَا يُفَرِّطُونَ

He is the Irresistible, Supreme over His slaves, and He sends guardians (angels guarding and writing all of one’s good and bad deeds) over you, until when death approaches one of you, Our Messengers (angel of death and his assistants) take his soul, and they never neglect their duty. [Surah Al-An’aam. Aayah 61]

Allaah [The Exalted] said:

ٱللَّهُ يَتَوَفَّى ٱلۡأَنفُسَ حِينَ مَوۡتِهَا وَٱلَّتِى لَمۡ تَمُتۡ فِى مَنَامِهَا‌ۖ فَيُمۡسِكُ ٱلَّتِى قَضَىٰ عَلَيۡہَا ٱلۡمَوۡتَ وَيُرۡسِلُ ٱلۡأُخۡرَىٰٓ إِلَىٰٓ أَجَلٍ۬ مُّسَمًّى‌ۚ إِنَّ فِى ذَٲلِكَ لَأَيَـٰتٍ۬ لِّقَوۡمٍ۬ يَتَفَكَّرُونَ

It is Allah Who takes away the souls at the time of their death, and those that die not during their sleep. He keeps those (souls) for which He has ordained death and sends the rest for a term appointed. Verily, in this are signs for a people who think deeply. [Surah Az-Zumar. Aayah 42]

Allaah [The Most High] said:

إِنَّمَا مَثَلُ ٱلْحَيَوٰةِ ٱلدُّنْيَا كَمَآءٍ أَنزَلْنَٰهُ مِنَ ٱلسَّمَآءِ فَٱخْتَلَطَ بِهِۦ نَبَاتُ ٱلْأَرْضِ مِمَّا يَأْكُلُ ٱلنَّاسُ وَٱلْأَنْعَٰمُ حَتَّىٰٓ إِذَآ أَخَذَتِ ٱلْأَرْضُ زُخْرُفَهَا وَٱزَّيَّنَتْ وَظَنَّ أَهْلُهَآ أَنَّهُمْ قَٰدِرُونَ عَلَيْهَآ أَتَىٰهَآ أَمْرُنَا لَيْلًا أَوْ نَهَارًا فَجَعَلْنَٰهَا حَصِيدًا كَأَن لَّمْ تَغْنَ بِٱلْأَمْسِ ۚ كَذَٰلِكَ نُفَصِّلُ ٱلْءَايَٰتِ لِقَوْمٍۢ يَتَفَكَّرُونَ

Verily the likeness of (this) worldly life is as the water (rain) which We send down from the sky, so by it arises the intermingled produce of the earth of which men and cattle eat until when the earth is clad with its adornments and is beautified, and its people think that they have all the powers of disposal over it, Our Command reaches it by night or by day and We make it like a clean-mown harvest, as if it had not flourished yesterday! Thus do We explain the Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, laws, etc.) in detail for the people who reflect.

Allaah [The Most High] said:

وَٱضۡرِبۡ لَهُم مَّثَلَ ٱلۡحَيَوٰةِ ٱلدُّنۡيَا كَمَآءٍ أَنزَلۡنَـٰهُ مِنَ ٱلسَّمَآءِ فَٱخۡتَلَطَ بِهِۦ نَبَاتُ ٱلۡأَرۡضِ فَأَصۡبَحَ هَشِيمً۬ا تَذۡرُوهُ ٱلرِّيَـٰحُ‌ۗ وَكَانَ ٱللَّهُ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَىۡءٍ۬ مُّقۡتَدِرًا

And put forward to them the example of the life of this world, it is like the water (rain) which We send down from the sky, and the vegetation of the earth mingles with it, and becomes fresh and green. But (later) it becomes dry and broken pieces, which the winds scatter. And Allah is Able to do everything. [Surah Al-Kahf]

Allaah [The Most High] said:

زُيِّنَ لِلنَّاسِ حُبُّ ٱلشَّهَوَٲتِ مِنَ ٱلنِّسَآءِ وَٱلۡبَنِينَ وَٱلۡقَنَـٰطِيرِ ٱلۡمُقَنطَرَةِ مِنَ ٱلذَّهَبِ وَٱلۡفِضَّةِ وَٱلۡخَيۡلِ ٱلۡمُسَوَّمَةِ وَٱلۡأَنۡعَـٰمِ وَٱلۡحَرۡثِ‌ۗ ذَٲلِكَ مَتَـٰعُ ٱلۡحَيَوٰةِ ٱلدُّنۡيَا‌ۖ وَٱللَّهُ عِندَهُ ۥ حُسۡنُ ٱلۡمَـَٔابِ
قُلۡ أَؤُنَبِّئُكُم بِخَيۡرٍ۬ مِّن ذَٲلِڪُمۡ‌ۚ لِلَّذِينَ ٱتَّقَوۡاْ عِندَ رَبِّهِمۡ جَنَّـٰتٌ۬ تَجۡرِى مِن تَحۡتِهَا ٱلۡأَنۡهَـٰرُ خَـٰلِدِينَ فِيهَا وَأَزۡوَٲجٌ۬ مُّطَهَّرَةٌ۬ وَرِضۡوَٲنٌ۬ مِّنَ ٱللَّهِ‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ بَصِيرُۢ بِٱلۡعِبَادِ

Beautified for men is the love of things they covet; women, children, much of gold and silver (wealth), branded beautiful horses, cattle and well-tilled land. This is the pleasure of the present world’s life; but Allah has the excellent return (Paradise with flowing rivers, etc.) with Him. Say: “Shall I inform you of things far better than those? For Al-Muttaqun (the pious – see V.2:2) there are Gardens (Paradise) with their Lord, underneath which rivers flow. Therein (is their) eternal (home) and Azwajun Mutahharatun (purified mates or wives) [i.e. they will have no menses, urine, or stool, etc.], And Allah will be pleased with them. And Allah is All-Seer of the (His) slaves”. [Soorah Aal Imraan’ Aayaat 14-15]

Allaah [The Most High] said: [وَيَوۡمَ يَحۡشُرُهُمۡ كَأَن لَّمۡ يَلۡبَثُوٓاْ إِلَّا سَاعَةً۬ مِّنَ ٱلنَّہَارِ يَتَعَارَفُونَ بَيۡنَہُمۡ‌ۚ – And on the Day when He shall gather (resurrect) them together, (it will be) as if they had not stayed (in the life of this world and graves, etc.) but an hour of a day. They will recognise each other. [Surah Yunus. Verse 45]

Allaah [The Most High] said:

قَـٰلَ كَمۡ لَبِثۡتُمۡ فِى ٱلۡأَرۡضِ عَدَدَ سِنِينَ
قَالُواْ لَبِثۡنَا يَوۡمًا أَوۡ بَعۡضَ يَوۡمٍ۬ فَسۡـَٔلِ ٱلۡعَآدِّينَ
قَـٰلَ إِن لَّبِثۡتُمۡ إِلَّا قَلِيلاً۬‌ۖ لَّوۡ أَنَّكُمۡ كُنتُمۡ تَعۡلَمُونَ

He (Allah) will say: “What number of years did you stay on earth?” They will say: “We stayed a day or part of a day. Ask of those who keep account.” He (Allah) will say: “You stayed not but a little, if you had only known! [Surah Al-Mu’minoon. Verses 112-114]

Allaah [The Most High] said:

يَوۡمَ يُنفَخُ فِى ٱلصُّورِ‌ۚ وَنَحۡشُرُ ٱلۡمُجۡرِمِينَ يَوۡمَٮِٕذٍ۬ زُرۡقً۬ا
يَتَخَـٰفَتُونَ بَيۡنَہُمۡ إِن لَّبِثۡتُمۡ إِلَّا عَشۡرً۬ا
نَّحۡنُ أَعۡلَمُ بِمَا يَقُولُونَ إِذۡ يَقُولُ أَمۡثَلُهُمۡ طَرِيقَةً إِن لَّبِثۡتُمۡ إِلَّا يَوۡمً۬ا

The Day when the Trumpet will be blown (the second blowing): that Day, We shall gather the Mujrimun (criminals, polytheists, sinners, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allah, etc.) Zurqa: (blue or blind eyed with black faces); In whispers will they speak to each other (saying): “You stayed not longer than ten (days).” We know very well what they will say, when the best among them in knowledge and wisdom will say: “You stayed no longer than a day!” [Surah Taha. Verse 102-104] And Allaah’s Aid is sought and upon Him we place our reliance!

Allaah [The Most High] informed us that the believer amongst the people of Pharaoh said:

[يَـٰقَوۡمِ إِنَّمَا هَـٰذِهِ ٱلۡحَيَوٰةُ ٱلدُّنۡيَا مَتَـٰعٌ۬ وَإِنَّ ٱلۡأَخِرَةَ هِىَ دَارُ ٱلۡقَرَارِ – O my people! Truly, this life of the world is nothing but a (quick passing) enjoyment, and verily, the Hereafter that is the home that will remain forever”. [Surah Ghaafir. Verse 39]

The Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said: “What is the world to me? What am I to the world? Verily, the example of this world and myself is that of a rider who seeks shade under a tree, then he moves on and leaves it behind”. [Reported by Imaam Ahmad 3701 and others]

The Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, “What is the example of this worldly life in comparison to the Hereafter other than one of you dipping his finger in the sea? Let him see what he brings forth”. [Reported by Imaam Muslim 2858]

Mujaahid [may Allaah have mercy upon him] narrated that Abdullaah Ibn Umar [may Allaah have mercy upon him and his father]said, “Allaah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] took hold of my shoulder and said, ‘Be in this world as if you were a stranger or a traveler’. The sub narrator added, ‘Ibn Umar Used to say, ‘If you survive till the evening, do not expect to be alive in the morning, and if you survive till the morning, do not expect to be alive in the evening, and take from your health for your sickness, and (take) from your life for your death’” [Al-Bukhaari. Number 6416]

Al-Allaamah Saaleh Al-Fawzaan [may Allaah preserve him] said: The Muslim is like a stranger in this worldly life: The stranger is one residing in a country other than his country. The worldly life is not the Muslim’s permanent place of residence; rather the Muslim’s permanent place of residence is paradise. He is in this worldly life to work for entry into Paradise. He takes what is needed from this world to aid him work for entry into paradise.

The Muslim is like a traveler in this worldly life: The traveler takes rest during his journey and then carries on travelling. He does not reside permanently in that place he stopped to take a rest. In the life of this world the Muslim is that traveler. In reality he is not a permanent resident in the worldly life because his time in it is very little. His nights and days take him towards the afterlife.

What is befitting the Muslim with regards to the days, nights, and his health etc! If you reach the morning do not delay good deeds till in the evening because it maybe that you will not reach the evening. If you reach the evening do not delay good deeds till the morning because it maybe that you will not reach the morning. Do not delay repentance and righteous deeds till another time.

As long as a person is in a state of good health and wellbeing, he is able to perform fasting, the night prayer etc; but when he becomes sick he is not able to perform fasting, the night prayer etc. Therefore, as long as Allaah has given you good health, then hasten towards righteous actions because a time will come in which you will be unable to perform them-either due to illness, old age, or senility. Prepare for death and what is to come after it. Allaah gave you this life in order that you busy yourself with what will benefit you in the afterlife. So do not spend your life in play and jest. [An Excerpt from ‘Al-Minhatur Rabbaaniyyah Fee Sharh Al-Arba’een. pages 285-287]

Imaam As-Sadi [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said: The sensible person is in a position to have the Baaqiyaat As-Saalihaat as provision [i.e. the good righteous deeds that last and are better in the sight of Allah for reward and better in respect of hope in the Hereafter] together with his share in the worldly life with ease- by seeking aid in going out in the morning and midday and something of the night time. This is the foundation upon which he places his worldly affairs and the means to [accomplishing them]. And even when such [affairs] come to him late at night, he would pray and seek aid from his Lord and asks for that which brings about goodness in his religious and Worldly affairs.

He begins his day with good – recitation of the Qur’aan and acts of worship- to which one devotes himself in the morning; performs the five daily prayers in their earliest times and that which Allah makes easy for him to perform of good deeds, such as [optional] prayer, recitation of the Qur’aan, remembrance of Allah, seeking knowledge and other than that. He engages his tongue in the Remembrance of Allah and in seeking forgiveness.

He pursues the means by way of which one seeks his livelihood such as trade, production of goods, farming and what is similar to them, whilst seeking the aid of his Lord in that. He suffices himself with the permissible means and turns away from that which Allaah has made unlawful. The intent behind this is to fulfil the individual obligations; to be (upon) self-sufficiency and having little or no need of the creation. If he does this or something closer to it, the result will be goodness and he will gain abundant reward [for the afterlife]. Also he does not forget his [lawful] share in the worldly life and it may be that Allah will bless him with contentment, which is true richness by way of which a good life is attained. [An Excerpt from Noorul Basaa-ir Wal Albaab Fee Ahkaam Al Ibaadaat, Wal Mu-aamalaat, Wal Huqooq, Wal Aadaab. Page: 65]

Shaikhul Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said: The greatest pleasure in the Afterlife is the pleasure of seeing Allaah [Glorified be He and free is He from all imperfections], just as it has been reported in the authentic hadeeth, “They [i.e. the people of paradise] will not be granted anything that is more beloved to them than seeing Him [i.e. Allaah]”. This is the fruitful outcome of knowing Him and worshipping Him in this worldly life. The best thing in this worldly life is to have knowledge and awareness of Him and the best thing in the Afterlife is to see Him. [Majmoo Al-Fataawaa. 14/163]

[1] Free-Mixing Between Men and Women, And Music! [Destruction Desired By Those Who Criticize Muslims When They Reject These Sins]

Written by abumuaawiyah on . Posted in Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Death, Family & Women, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Refutations, Sin, Uncategorized.

In The Name of Allaah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

The Disbelievers of Old Also Called The Believers to Their Corrupt Path

Allaah (The Most High) said:

وَقَالَ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا لِلَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اتَّبِعُوا سَبِيلَنَا وَلْنَحْمِلْ خَطَايَاكُمْ وَمَا هُم بِحَامِلِينَ مِنْ خَطَايَاهُم مِّن شَيْءٍ ۖ إِنَّهُمْ لَكَاذِبُونَ

And those who disbelieve say to those who believe: “Follow our way and we will verily bear your sins,” never will they bear anything of their sins. Surely, they are liars. [Surah Al-Ankabut. Verse 12]

Imaam At-Tabari [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said: They (i.e. disbelievers of Quraish) said (to the believers), “Be upon the likes of what we are upon, such as our denial of the resurrection after death and that there will be no good recompense and punishment for the deeds of the people. If you follow our way in these affairs and are raised up after death (i.e. we doubt it), and you are recompensed for your deeds, we will indeed bear the burden of your sins”. [ Tafseer At-Tabari]

Imaam Ibnul Jawzi (may Allaah have mercy upon him] said that Mujaahid [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “This is the statement of the disbelievers of Quraish to those believers amongst the people of Makkah; they said to them, ‘Neither we nor you will be resurrected, so follow us. If anything is brought against you (i.e. we doubt it), the burden will be on us”. Allaah said that they (i.e. disbelievers of Quraish) are liars due to the claim that they will bear the sins of the (believers)'”. [Zaadul Maseer]

Imaam Ibn Katheer [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said: Allaah [The Most High] informed (us) about the disbelievers of Quraish that they said to those amongst them who believed (in the message of Muhammad) and followed the (right) guidance, “Abandon your religion, return to our religion and follow our way. We will verily bear your sins if you have any”, just as a person says, “Do this and your sin is upon my neck”. So Allaah declared their statement false, saying that never will they (i.e. the Quraish) bear anything of their (i.e. the believers) sins. Surely, they are liars. That is because no one will bear anything of the sins of others. [Tafseer Ibn Katheer]

Be Mindful of The Worldly Life and Be Mindful of The Fitna of Women

Allaah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, “Verily the worldly life is sweet and green, and verily Allaah is going to place you as successors upon it in and will see how you act. So, be mindful of the worldly life and be mindful of women, because indeed the first trial for the Children of Israa’eel was due to women”. [Saheeh Muslim. 2742]

Imaam Muhammad Ibn Saaleh Al-Uthaymeen [may Allaah have mercy upon him] commented on the statement of the Messenger, “Verily the worldly life is sweet and green”- Mmeaning, sweet in taste and green in its image. And when something is green and sweet, the eye seeks after it first and then the Nafs; and when the eye and the nafs come together in seeking after something, the human being is drawn close to falling into it. The worldly life is sweet in its taste and green in its image, so the human being is deceived by it and pre-occupied with it. He places greater importance on it than what is due to it (of importance). However, the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] made it known that Allaah is going to place us as successors upon (the earth) and He ‘ll see how we act- whether we will be obedient to Him, forbid the nafs from desires, fulfil what Allaah has enjoined upon us and not allow the worldly life to deceive you or whether the opposite will take place! This is why he [i.e. the Prophet] said, “Be mindful of the worldly life”- Meaning, fulfil what you have been commanded and refrain from that which you have been forbidden, and do not let the sweetness and radiance of this worldly life to deceive you, as Allaah said: [فَلَا تَغُرَّنَّڪُمُ ٱلۡحَيَوٰةُ ٱلدُّنۡيَا وَلَا يَغُرَّنَّڪُم بِٱللَّهِ ٱلۡغَرُورُ – [Let not then this (worldly) present life deceive you, nor let the chief deceiver (Satan) deceive you about Allaah].

Then he [i.e. the Prophet] said, “So be mindful of the worldly life and be mindful of women”-Meaning, be mindful of them. This includes a warning to the woman with regards to her plot against her husband, and also a warning against women and the trial that can occur through them. And due to this reason he [i.e. the Prophet] said, “Indeed, the first trial for the Children of Israa’eel was due to women”. They were put to trial through women, thus they went astray and led others astray, and Allaah refuge is sought! And due to this, we find that at present our enemies are focused on women issues- adorning women, intermingling them and make them share the same occupations with men, until it becomes as if the people are donkeys having no other concern except for their stomachs and canal desires, and Allaah’s Refuge is sought! Women are portrayed as if they are mere images- pictures (which) people attached no importance to except that which is connected to the woman’s figure (outward appearance). See how they have decorated and beautified her! See how they have brought about beautifications for her and presented her in a desirable condition, in relation to (her) hair, skin, legs, arms, face and everything else; until they make it the most important issue for the woman, like a picture made out of plastic. They neither present to her the importance of establishing Ibaadah nor bearing children. [Slightly paraphrased] [Source: An Excerpt from this lecture: https://safeshare.tv/x/fKxP_Mt7o9w#

Free mixing between men and women: Imaam Ibnul Qayyim [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “There is no doubt that enabling women to free mix with men is the root of every calamity and evil. It is one of the major causes of sweeping divine punishment as well as one of the cause of corruption of the general and specific affairs. Free mixing between men and women is a cause of many immoralities and adultery, and it is one of the causes of widespread death and continuous plagues. When the prostitutes mixed with Musa’s [peace be upon him] army and immorality spread among them, Allaah sent a plague on them, and seventy thousand died in one day. The story is well-known in the books of Tafseer. One of the greatest causes of sweeping death is when adultery becomes rife, women are able to free mix with men and walk among them whilst dressed in an un-Islamic manner and beautified. If those in authority knew what is accompanied in this affair of corruption of this worldly affairs and the people – even before corruption in the religion, then indeed it would have been one the things they would more robustly seek to prevent. [At-turuq Al-Hukmiyyah. page 281. slightly paraphrased]

Read: Mind map illustration showing the mahrams (male chaperones) of a woman for travel and sittings- By Shaikh Abu Khadeejah [may Allaah preserve him]: https://www.abukhadeejah.com/mind-map-illustration-showing-the-mahrams-male-chaperones-of-a-woman-for-travel-and-sittings/

Music: Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allaah have mercy upon him] stated: Allaah [The Exlated] said:

وَمِنَ ٱلنَّاسِ مَن يَشۡتَرِى لَهۡوَ ٱلۡحَدِيثِ لِيُضِلَّ عَن سَبِيلِ ٱللَّهِ بِغَيۡرِ عِلۡمٍ۬ وَيَتَّخِذَهَا هُزُوًا‌ۚ أُوْلَـٰٓٮِٕكَ لَهُمۡ عَذَابٌ۬ مُّهِينٌ۬
وَإِذَا تُتۡلَىٰ عَلَيۡهِ ءَايَـٰتُنَا وَلَّىٰ مُسۡتَڪۡبِرً۬ا كَأَن لَّمۡ يَسۡمَعۡهَا كَأَنَّ فِىٓ أُذُنَيۡهِ وَقۡرً۬ا‌ۖ فَبَشِّرۡهُ بِعَذَابٍ أَلِيمٍ

And of mankind is he who purchases idle speech to mislead (men) from the Path of Allah without knowledge, and takes it (the Path of Allah, the Verses of the Qur’an) by way of mockery. For such there will be a humiliating torment (in the Hell-fire). And when Our Verses (of the Qur’an) are recited to such a one, he turns away in pride, as if he heard them not, as if there were deafness in his ear. So announce to him a painful torment. [Surah Luqman Verses 6-7]

The majority of the scholars say that the intent behind [لَهۡوَ ٱلۡحَدِيثِ – idle speech (in this verse)] refers to music. Some of them stated in addition that thsi also refers to the sounds of the flutes and (forbidden) instruments of amusement. This is the idle speech intended in this verse and it is one of the causes of misguidance from the path of Allaah and being misguided.

Indeed, when the hearts are satiated with music, they become sick and hardened (i.e. corrupted); deviated and thus fall into misguidance. Listening to the Qur’an becomes difficult and they haughtly turn away from listening to it. It leads – those preoccupied with it – to corruption and deviation of the hearts- becomes hard for them to listen to the Qur’an and make them heedless through music. Abdullah Bin Mas’ood [may Allaah be pleased with him] said, “Singing (or music) grows hypocrisy in the heart as water makes plants grow”. This shows us the danger and evil of music and musical instruments.

It been transmitted in the Prophetic reports whose meaning show that music is forbidden, and from this reports is that Imaam Al-Bukhaari [may Allaah have mercy upon him] reported that the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, “There will be people among my Ummah who will make lawful illegal sexual intercourse, the wearing of silk (i.e. for men even though only women are allowed to wear it), the drinking of alcoholic drinks and the use of musical instruments”. [Saheeh Al-Bukhaari 5590]

So the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] informed us that during the end of time a people will make it permissible- even though it is forbidden – because of their weak Eemaan. (1)

Shaikhul Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah [may Allaah have mercy upon him] stated regarding the effect of music upon the souls: “It is the intoxicant of the souls. When the souls are intoxicated with the sounds (from music and musical instruments), Shirk (gradually) comes to them, they incline towards lewd acts and oppression, and thus they begin to commit Shirk, murder and fornication. These three deeds are present – a lot – amongst the people who listen to music”. (2)

Imaam Ibnul Qayyim [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said: That which we and others have witnessed and acquainted with based on experience, is that indeed musical instruments and instruments used for forbidden amusement do not appear amongst a people, spread amongst them and they busy themselves with it, except that Allaah (allows) their enemy to overcome them, and they are afflicted with famine, drought and evil rulers. https://salafidawah.uk/2021/02/10/believers-bahaviour-towards-muslim-rulers-advisegiven-in-private-supplicate-for-them-and-refrain-from-rebellion-so-beware-of-spiteful-foreign-instigatorsand-some-dangerous-social-media-networ/ Therefore, the sensible person reflects on the state of affairs of the world and examines. And Allaah’s Aid is sought! (3)

Consequences of Persisting Upon Evil, Whilst Receiving More Provision

Those who reject Our Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.), We shall gradually seize them with punishment in ways they perceive not. And I respite them; certainly My Plan is strong. [Surah Al-7:182-183]

[We shall gradually seize them with punishment] – Meaning, by granting them plentiful provision and respite until they think that they will neither be taken to task for their disobedience nor punished, so they increase in disbelief and transgression, and evil upon evil. And through this their punishment is increased and multiplied, so they harm themselves in ways they perceive not. (4) Imaam Sufyaan Ath-Thawree [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “Whenever they commit (major) sins, Allaah bestows a blessing on them and make them forgetful of seeking forgiveness. (5)

Finally: We must always remember that “This Worldly Life is Prison For The Believer and a Paradise of The Disbeliever”. Abu Hurairah [may Allaah be pleased with him] narrated that the Messenger of Allaah [peace and blessings be upon him], said, “The worldly life is a prison for the believer [in Allaah and the final Messenger] and a paradise for the disbeliever [in Allaah and the final Messenger]”.(6)

The Meaning of The Above Hadeeth: Imaam An-Nawawi [may Allaah have mercy be upon him] said: Every believer is imprisoned and prevented – in the worldly life – from evil and repugnant desires and obligated to perform demanding acts of obedience. But after death, he relaxes and receives what Allaah [The Exalted] promised of permanent bliss and perfect relaxation. As for the disbeliever [in Allaah and the final Messenger], he gets what he receives in the worldly life together with the fact that it is very little and disrupted by distress. And after he dies, he finds himself in permanent punishment and eternal wretchedness. (7)

Imaam Muhammad Ibn Saaleh Al-Uthaymeen [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said: Regardless how great the affair of the worldly life is – its good days and its dwelling places (surrounded by beautiful trees, plants, scenery etc), then indeed it is like a prison for the believer, because a believer looks forward to a bliss that is better, more perfect and loftier. As for the disbeliever [in Allaah and the final Messenger], the worldly life is his paradise because he enjoys himself in it [i.e. outside the boundaries of halaal and haraam] and forgets the afterlife, and thus becomes like those about whom Allaah [The Exalted] stated:

وَٱلَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ يَتَمَتَّعُونَ وَيَأۡكُلُونَ كَمَا تَأۡكُلُ ٱلۡأَنۡعَـٰمُ وَٱلنَّارُ مَثۡوً۬ى لَّهُمۡ

Those who disbelieve enjoy themselves and eat as cattle eat, and the Fire will be their abode. [Surah Muhammad Aayah 12]

Therefore, when the disbeliever dies, he does not find anything in front of him except the fire and Allaah’s punishment, and woe to the people of the fire. So that which is found in the worldly life of distress, grief, sadness and sorrow is like a paradise in relation to the state of affairs of the disbeliever [in Allaah and the final Messenger], because he will leave this world to receive Allaah’s punishment.

It has been mentioned about Ibn Hajar Al Asqalaani – the author of Fat’hul Baari – that he used to be the chief of the judges in Egypt in his era, and he used go past the market with an entourage. So, one day a Yahoodi stopped him and said, “Your Prophet said, ‘The worldly life is a prison of the believer and paradise of the disbeliever’, and how can this be the case whilst you are in a state of luxury and joy, and I am in a state of extreme poverty and low status?” So, Ibn Hajr said to him, “If in your view I am in state of joy and that people are at my service, then this state is a prison in comparison to what a believer will receive of bliss in Paradise. As for yourself, even though you are in state of extreme poverty and low status, then it is like paradise in comparison to what a disbeliever will receive in the fire”. So, the Yahoodi was amazed by this statement and then testified that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allaah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah. (8)

[Ref 1: https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/7763/%D8%A7%D8%AF%D9%84%D8%A9-%D8%AAD8%AD%D8%B1%D9%8A%D9%85-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%BA%D9%86%D8%A7%D8%A1 paraphrased]
[Ref 2: Majmoo Al-Fataawaa 10/417]
[Ref 3: Madaarij As-Saalikeen 1/500]
[Ref 4: An Excerpt from ‘Tayseer Al-Kareem Ar-Rahmaan Fee Tafseer Kalaam al-Mannaan’ by
Imaam Sadi. slightly paraphrased].
[Ref 5: Al-Mukhallisaat 2352]
[Ref 6:Source: Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 2956]
[Ref 7: Sharh Saheeh Muslim 18/74. Daar Al-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah. 1st Edition 1421AH (2000)]
[Ref 8: https://binothaimeen.net/content/8835 ]

The Ruling On Transferring The Deceased to Another Land For Burial – [By Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz (rahimahullaah)]

Written by Salafi Dawah Manchester on . Posted in Death, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allaah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Question:

Shaikh Hassan Bin Sa’eed Bin Mu’aylee died today, so is it permissible to transfer him to Yemen or to Mecca or bury him in the city of Riyadh?

Answer:

May Allaah forgive him, may Allaah forgive Hassan Bin Saeed. This person is one of our brothers among the leaders in Sabah Ma’rib. May Allaah forgive him and enter him into paradise. So what we hold is that he is not transferred, rather the (Janaazah) prayer is performed for him here and he is buried in the graves here, because transferring him will lead to some problems:

First, they might remove the intestines so that the body does not decay and this type of change in his physical self is impermissible.

Second, there is no need to transfer him to Yemen or Makkah. A person should be buried in the place where he died. As long as there is a Muslim cemetery in that place, he is buried where the Muslims are buried.

What we hold is that he is not transferred, but he should be buried in Muslim cemeteries here and praise be to Allaah. This is safety from burden, safety from transgressing against him and changing his physical self (i.e. removing his intestines) in order to transfer him. [Ref 1]

More detail in the pdf below. See page 48 onwards

https://www.abukhadeejah.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Simple-Funeral-Guide-Booklet_7_AbuKhadeejah.pdf

Ref 1: https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/1753/%D8%AD%D9%83%D9%85-%D9%86%D9%82%D9%84-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D9%8A%D8%AA-%D9%85%D9%86-%D9%85%D9%83%D8%A7%D9%86-%D9%88%D9%81%D8%A7%D8%AA%D9%87-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%89-%D8%A8%D9%84%D8%AF-%D9%88%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%AF%D8%AA%D9%87-%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%82%D8%A7%D9%85%D8%AA%D9%87 paraphrased