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The Greatest Pleasure in Both the Afterlife and the Worldly Life

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

Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

The greatest pleasure in the afterlife is the pleasure of seeing Allah, Glorified be He and free is He from all imperfections, as it has been reported in the authentic hadith: “They [the people of paradise] will not be granted anything that is more beloved to them than seeing Him [Allah]”. This is the fruitful outcome of knowing Him and worshipping Him in this worldly life. The best thing in this worldly life is to possess knowledge and awareness of Him and the best thing in the afterlife is to see Him. [Majmu Al-Fataawa. 14/163]

The Impact of Worship In The Life of a Muslim
https://salafidawah.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Impact_of_Worship_In_The_Life_of_a_Muslim.pdf

Caution against unmeasured speech and action

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

The Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“Beware of Ghuluw (extremism exaggeration, or excessive zeal) in religion, for those who came before you were destroyed due to extremism in religion”. [1]

Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy on him, said:

“Ghuluw is the act of exceeding the limit in something, by either praising or criticizing (dispraising) something beyond what it truly deserves, and similar actions.” [2]

The Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “The over-stringent ones are destroyed”. [3]

Imam An-Nawawi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“They are those who exceed the Hudud [prescribed legislated Sharia limits] in their statements and actions”. [4]

Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon him, said that:

This applies to both speech and actions, and that in most cases some people in this state may become self-amazed and arrogant. [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. 2720] [6]


[1] Sahih Al-Jami 2680

[2] Iqtidaa As-Siraat Al-Mustaqeem 1/289

[3] Sahih Muslim 2670

[4] Sharh Sahih Muslim. 16/180-220

[5]https://alathar.net/home/esound/index.php?op=codevi&coid=126682

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

Islam and the Worldly Sciences – a gift to fellow primary and secondary school teachers

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

Islam_and_the_worldly_sciences_final

Islam and the Worldly Sciences – By Imam As-Sadi, may Allah have mercy upon him

We praise and thank Allah for guiding us to the noble Salafi Methodology and acquainting us with both contemporary and earlier scholars of the Ummah. Several years ago, we encountered this enlightening treatise in Arabic. As we explored its contents, we recognised its significant value as a vital reminder, particularly in our capacities as educators in primary and secondary education. This is especially relevant for those teaching physical, natural, and social sciences, as it helps us maintain a clear focus on the Islamic approach to worldly knowledge for ourselves and our students. It is essential that we approach these subjects with a clear intention that aligns our religious goals with worldly aspirations that are pleasing to our Creator. Acknowledging that Islam provides a structured framework for assessing the merits and drawbacks of worldly sciences, grounded in the principles of divine revelation, is crucial. We pray that this treatise serves as a source of reflection and inspiration for both ourselves and our collegues.

The author, Imam Abdur Rahman Bin Nasir As-Sadi, may Allah’s mercy be upon him, addressed various issues with precision in this valuable treatise, which also showcased several social issues during his era.

He began by establishing a robust foundation, affirming that the words, judgments, and decrees of the Creator are indisputable. He then demonstrated how contemporary scientific understanding harmonizes with Islamic principles, bolstering his claims with evidence drawn from divine revelation and citing essential tenets to enhance his discourse. Furthermore, he cautioned against the perils of ignorance, which could lead to unfounded assertions and proposals regarding this matter.

He gracefully continued the dialogue, presenting compelling evidence of the extraordinary traits of the universe. This encompassed the awe-inspiring signs present in the cosmos and its inhabitants, all of which underscore the Creator’s perfect Names and Attributes. He encouraged deep contemplation of creation, drawing parallels from daily experiences such as nourishment, the intricacies of the digestive system, and the brilliance of human intellect. Through these insights, he illustrated how such reflections prompt believers to ponder, in contrast to materialists who fail to grasp these marvels in manner pleasing to their Creator. Moreover, he elaborated on the stages of fetal development, the unique qualities of living beings, and their innate guidance towards realising their purposes. All these phenomena are designed to inspire humanity to recognise their Creator and to harness the wonders of the universe for their own benefit.

He elaborated on the essence of guidance, which is rooted in the Quran and the Sunnah, complemented by the proofs provided to the Messengers. This divine guidance serves as a steadfast compass for both religious and worldly matters, with Islam being the final path. Abandoning this path renders true success in this life and the hereafter elusive. The discussion then shifted to the themes of reflection and consultation. After contemplating the Creator’s guidance, the vastness of the universe, and the extraordinary gifts granted for the benefit of creation, individuals either pursue these blessings or seek counsel when uncertain about the potential advantages and disadvantages. This method is designed to ensure well-being in both religious and worldly affairs, as directed by Allah and His Messenger.

He then addressed the materialists and atheists, whose perspectives on the universe stray from the guidance of the Creator and the path laid out by the Messengers. Their denial of the Creator, His bounties, and the purpose of existence inevitably leads to turmoil, disorder, and trials in this life, along with ruin in the afterlife. Following the resolution of this issue and the adept clarification of certain misconceptions held by materialists, the Imam redirects attention to the significance of righteousness and reform. These principles are essential for fostering positive human relationships, as explicitly detailed in divine law. At the heart of this righteousness lies the highest purpose, rooted in the purity of Islamic Monotheism and adherence to the path of the Messenger, which together form the bedrock of genuine well-being and social harmony.

Furthermore, he cited verses from the Qur’an to illuminate some of the general and specific matters of welfare, addressing both religious and worldly matters, thereby illustrating that the Religion comprehensively encompasses all elements essential to human well-being. At this juncture, it became imperative to draw a clear line between those who reject this sacred path and the faithful adherents. He criticised those who seek to diminish the religion by branding it as outdated, while also shedding light on various societal challenges, including the rule of law, punitive measures, and the social framework as prescribed by divine guidance, juxtaposing these with the adverse effects of deviating from such principles. Moreover, he delved into the subject of intellectual freedom and the potential repercussions that may ensue when it lacks the direction of divine wisdom from the Creator, who alone possesses perfect knowledge into what is truly beneficial or harmful for humanity across all facets of existence.

As the treatise approached its conclusion, the Imam emphasised a detrimental perspective held by materialists: their rejection of Al-Qadaa Wal-Qadar and their attempt to sever the connection between cause and effect from the Will and decree of the Almighty Creator. By reflecting on the opening of the treatise, one can discern how the Imam articulated that everything stated by the Creator embodies absolute reality, truth, and flawless guidance. He also vividly illustrated the Creator’s all-encompassing Will, perfect knowledge, wisdom, and capability in all that He has fashioned. Thus, a clear link emerges between the initial discussion of the Creator’s omnipotent Will and the concluding topic of Al-Qadaa Wal-Qadar. The materialists’ denial of this fundamental truth equates to a rejection of the Creator, His Actions, His signs, His blessings, and His guidance. In this light, the Imam addresses both the harmful consequences of dismissing Al-Qadaa Wal-Qadar and some of the misconceptions that materialists hold regarding this mighty pillar of Iman.

As the materialists boast of their achievements in worldly matters without expressing gratitude to the Creator for His boundless bounties, the Imam underscored the essence of authentic progress, moral reform, and intellectual advancement. Finally, he made a clear distinction between those worthy of emulation and those who are not, while also drawing attention to the grave peril posed by knowledge associated with those who have turned away from the Creator. These individuals, enamored by their earthly triumphs, mock divine guidance and hinder humanity from the righteous path of Allah. It is indeed challenging to fully encapsulate this analysis; rather, it is up to the reader to form their own conclusions as they engage with this treatise and reflect upon its content. We beseech Allah to bestow upon us awakened hearts that yearn for goodness and to enhance this desire throughout our lives. Amin.

Lastly, to aid the reader, we have included titles in the translation to clearly delineate the various topics discussed by the Imam. The Arabic text, even without headings or subtitles, is inherently clear to the reader.

And Allah knows best

Three blessings that inspire gratitude and kindness towards those in need

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

Ubaydullah Ibn Mihsan Al-Khatmiy narrated from his father that the Messenger, peace and blessing of Allah be upon him, said: “Whoever among you wakes up (in the morning) safe in his property, healthy in his body and has his daily nourishment, it is as if he has been granted the entire world”.

Al-Allamah Zayd Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

This hadith shows that those blessed with safety in the lands, physical health, houses to live in and daily nourishment have indeed been blessed with a complete blessing. Therefore, it is obligatory to thank Allah constantly. This hadith shows that what suffices a person’s needs are a bounty and a blessing for which he must thank Allah, The Mighty and Majestic. A person may strive to gather a lot of wealth, but he is created to worship of Allah. If a person does this, he will achieve and attain success, but if not, he will fail and incur loss. Therefore, is there one who will receive admonition?!

This hadith shows that to be blessed with safety in one’s religion, honour, wealth and blood is valuable. [Footnote a] These are from those things whose fulfilment in a society will bring about a good life and security. But if security is not present, chaos will unravel in the society – the powerful people will overpower the weak and the oppressor will overpower the oppressed, thus there will be an evil circumstances and maybe evil consequences. Therefore, any society or land that has been bestowed a ruler among the Muslims and granted security in a region under his ruler-ship, it is obligatory to obey him and should be aided by the other lands as much as one is able. [Footnote b] And what is observed as a fact in relation to this is that whoever is blessed with enough food and drink, a dwelling place, means of transportation, security in his place of residence and good physical health, it is as if he has been given the entire world. Therefore, he should be thankful to Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, for that until he meets Allah. [1]

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

Blessings are three types: an attained blessing that is known to the person, a blessing he is waiting for and hopes to attain, and a blessing he has, but unaware of it. If Allah wants to complete His favour on a person, He acquaints the person with a blessing that is present and blesses him with the ability to be thankful through which the blessing is retained, thus, it does not depart. This is because blessings depart through sin and they are retained through thankfulness (or gratitude). Then Allah blesses him with the deeds through which he secures the awaited blessings, help him to overcome obstacles in the path and guide him to avoid them. So, the blessings comes to him in the most complete way and Allah acquaints him with the blessings he possess, but was unaware of them. It has been reported that a bedouin said Harun Ar-Rashid: “O chief of the believers! May Allah secure the blessings in your possession due to your constant gratitude, fulfil the blessings you hope for due to your good thoughts about Allah and constantly being obedient to Him, and acquaint you with the blessings which you have, but unaware of them, as a result of which you do not thank Him for it”. Harun was amazed by this speech and said, “Excellent indeed is that which he has classified”. [2]

A Supplication Before Bedtime

الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ الَّذِي أَطْعَمَنَا وَسَقَانَا وَكَفَانَا وَآوَانَا فَكَمْ مِمَّنْ لاَ كَافِيَ لَهُ وَلاَ مُئْوِيَ

All praise is due to Allah Who fed us, provided us drink, sufficed us and provided us with shelter, for how many people there is none to suffice and none to provide shelter. [Saheeh Muslim Number 2715]

In this supplication, there is a reminder for the Muslim before he goes to bed regarding the end of the day and the hours that have elapsed during which Allah provided him with food, drink and shelter, while there are a number of people who could not find food as a source of nourishment or drink to quench their thirst, or clothing to clothed themselves, or a dwelling place. Therefore, whoever Allah blesses with food and drink, sufficed him, it is obligated to him to acknowledge the blessings of Allah and consider it as something great indeed. This is because being grateful for the blessings Allah has bestowed on you is a means to retaining and increasing those blessings. Allah, The Most High, said:

[وَإِذْ تَأَذَّنَ رَبُّكُمْ لَئِنْ شَكَرْتُمْ لَأَزِيدَنَّكُمْ ۖ وَلَئِنْ كَفَرْتُمْ إِنَّ عَذَابِي لَشَدِيدٌ -And (remember) when your Lord proclaimed: “If you give thanks (by accepting Faith and worshipping none but Allah), I will give you more (of My Blessings), but if you are thankless (i.e. disbelievers), verily! My Punishment is indeed severe]. [14:7] [3]

We ask Allah:
اللّهُـمَّ أَعِـنِّي عَلـى ذِكْـرِكَ وَشُكْـرِك ،
وَحُسْـنِ عِبـادَتِـك

O Allah, help me to remember You, to thank You, and to worship You in the best manner. [3] [Footnote c]

——————————————–

Footnote a:

Wellbeing

Footnote b:

Believer’s Bahaviour Towards Muslim Rulers – [Supplicates For Them….]

Footnote c:

Gratitude and Remembrance of Allah, Recalling Allah’s Favours or Fluanting, Pursuing Virtuous Leadership or Self-aggrandisement


[1] An Excerpt from “Awn Al-Ahad As-Samad Sharh Al-Adab Al-Mufrad”. 1/335

[2] An Excerpt from “Al-Fawaa’id”. page 250

[3] An Excerpt from Fiqh Al-Ad’iyah Wal-Ad’kar 3/79

Violence is most likely to breed more violence – Reminder to Cookie Schwaeber-issan

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

Allah [The Exalted] said:

وَإِذَا قُلۡتُمۡ فَٱعۡدِلُواْ وَلَوۡ ڪَانَ ذَا قُرۡبَىٰ‌ۖ

And when you testify, be just, even if (it concerns) a near relative.

Imam As-Sadi, may Allah preserve him, said:

When you testify by way of a statement to judge between people, differentiate between them in a discourse, and speak regarding matters and circumstances, be just in your speech, adhere to truthfulness regarding those you love and those you hate, be fair and do not conceal what needs to be made clear because it is forbidden and tantamount to injustice to divert (from justice and fairness) when speaking against the one you hate. [Tafsir As-Sadi]

It is incumbent upon Cookie to ensure that both perspectives are represented when discussing events. Regardless of the validity of the report, it is disheartening to witness children being exposed to one of the most heavily armed armies in the world, especially when the reasons behind this conflict are well known. At the same time, while these children are in need of people who will teach them the correct methodology in order to safeguard their lives and well-being, there are also some Zionists who have a greater need of being educated to abandon their path. Please refer to the link below for more information.

Must take a look at what is happening in their own backyard first

Loving Sports Personalities Until It Leads to Major Shirk

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

Allah, The Exalted, 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)]. [Al-Baqarah. 165]

It is reported that Lionel Messi said that he doesn’t like being called ‘God’ by fans and that he said: “I’m not worried by it, but it’s true that I don’t like it. It’s nice to be praised because people are being respectful. They don’t say it with any ill intent, but actually, with the complete opposite. But I think it’s very exaggerated to call me that.” [End of quote]

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 polytheists, they associate partners to 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 polytheist, 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.

Allah, The Exalted, said:
أَمْ اتَّخَذُوا آلِهَةً مِنْ الأَرْضِ هُمْ يُنشِرُونَ
لَوْ كَانَ فِيهِمَا آلِهَةٌ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ لَفَسَدَتَا فَسُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَرْشِ عَمَّا يَصِفُونَ
لاَ يُسْأَلُ عَمَّا يَفْعَلُ وَهُمْ يُسْأَلُونَ
أَمْ اتَّخَذُوا مِنْ دُونِهِ آلِهَةً قُلْ هَاتُوا بُرْهَانَكُمْ هَذَا ذِكْرُ مَنْ مَعِيَ وَذِكْرُ مَنْ قَبْلِي بَلْ أَكْثَرُهُمْ لاَ يَعْلَمُونَ الْحَقَّ فَهُمْ مُعْرِضُونَ
وَمَا أَرْسَلْنَا مِنْ قَبْلِكَ مِنْ رَسُول ٍإِلاَّ نُوحِي إِلَيْهِ أَنَّهُ لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ أَنَا فَاعْبُدُونِ

Or have they taken (for worship) aliha (gods) from the earth who raise the dead? Had there been therein (in the heavens and the earth) gods besides Allah, then verily both would have been ruined. Glorified be Allah, the Lord of the Throne, (High is He) above what they attribute to Him! He cannot be questioned as to what He does, while they will be questioned. Or have they taken for worship (other) aliha (gods) besides Him? Say: “Bring your proof:” This (the Qur’an) is the Reminder for those with me and the Reminder for those before me. But most of them know not the Truth, so they are averse. And We did not send any Messenger before you (O Muhammad) but We inspired him (saying): La ilaha illa Ana [none has the right to be worshipped but I (Allah)], so worship Me (Alone and no one else).” [Al-Anbiyaa. 21-25]

Allah, The Exalted, stated His disapproval of the polytheists – those who (worship things adopted as)gods in the earth, even though these gods are absolutely incapacitated and powerless. Neither are they are able to bring them back to life nor resurrect them, and this is further explained by the statement of Allah:

وَاتَّخَذُوا مِنْ دُونِهِ آلِهَةً لاَ يَخْلُقُونَ شَيْئًا وَهُمْ يُخْلَقُونَ وَلاَ يَمْلِكُونَ ِلأَنفُسِهِمْ ضَرًّا وَلاَ نَفْعًا وَلاَ يَمْلِكُونَ مَوْتًا وَلاَ حَيَاةً وَلاَ نُشُورًا

Yet they have taken besides Him other aliha (gods) that created nothing but are themselves created, and possess neither hurt nor benefit for themselves, and possess no power (of causing) death, nor (of giving) life, nor of raising the dead. [Al-Furqan. 3]

Allah said:
وَاتَّخَذُوا مِنْ دُونِ اللَّهِ آلِهَةً لَعَلَّهُمْ يُنصَرُونَ
لاَ يَسْتَطِيعُونَ نَصْرَهُمْ وَهُمْ لَهُمْ جُندٌ مُحْضَرُونَ

And they have taken besides Allah aliha (gods), hoping that they might be helped (by those so-called gods). They cannot help them, but they will be brought forward as a troop against those who worshipped them (at the time of Reckoning). [YaaSin 74-75]

A polytheist worships a created thing that can neither benefit nor harm, and he abandons worshipping Allah sincerely – The One Who is Perfect, and in His Hand is the absolute control over all benefit and harm. This shows that a polytheist is not blessed, his ignorance is clearly established as well as the severity of his unjust behaviour towards Allah, for indeed it is only befitting that there is only one [true] deity, just as there cannot be except one [true] Lord. And because of this, Allah [The Exalted] said:

لَوْ كَانَ فِيهِمَا آلِهَةٌ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ لَفَسَدَتَا فَسُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَرْشِ عَمَّا يَصِفُونَ

Had there been therein (in the heavens and the earth) gods besides Allaah, then verily both [i.e. the heavens and the earth] would have been ruined. Glorified be Allah, the Lord of the Throne, (High is He) above what they attribute to Him! [Al-Anbiyaa. 22]- Meaning, both the heavens and the earth would have been ruined as well the creation within them. The heavens and the earth – as one can see – are in a perfect state, intact and in perfect order. Neither is there any defect in them and obstacles (to its perfect order) nor conflict in its organisation. Thus, this shows that the One who controls and regulates its affairs is One- its Lord is one and the deity (under whose control they are maintained) is One. If it were the case that the heavens and the earth have two (deities) that control and regulate its affairs- two lords or more, then its perfect order would have been ruined and its foundations would have been undermined. This is because they would have been obstacles and opponents to one another; so if one of them wishes to plan and administer something and the other one wishes that it should not take place, it would be impossible for both their wishes to be fulfilled. The fulfilment of the wishes of one would have shown that the other one is weak and unable do whatever he wants, and it is impossible that both of them will agree on everything. Therefore, the wish of The Irresistible [i.e. Allah- the only True Lord and besides Him every other deity is false]- is what will be fulfilled without anyone being able to prevent or repel it. This is why Allah [The Exalted] said:

مَا اتَّخَذَ اللَّهُ مِنْ وَلَدٍ وَمَا كَانَ مَعَهُ مِنْ إِلَهٍ إِذًا لَذَهَبَ كُلُّ إِلَهٍ بِمَا خَلَقَ وَلَعَلاَ بَعْضُهُمْ عَلَى بَعْضٍ سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ عَمَّا يَصِفُونَ

No son (or offspring or children) did Allah beget, nor is there any ilah (god) along with Him; (if there had been many gods), behold, each god would have taken away what he had created, and some would have tried to overcome others! Glorified be Allah above all that they attribute to Him! [Al-Muminun. 91] [1]

Allah said:
يُولِجُ ٱلَّيۡلَ فِى ٱلنَّهَارِ وَيُولِجُ ٱلنَّهَارَ فِى ٱلَّيۡلِ وَسَخَّرَ ٱلشَّمۡسَ وَٱلۡقَمَرَ ڪُلٌّ۬ يَجۡرِى لِأَجَلٍ۬ مُّسَمًّ۬ىۚ ذَٲلِڪُمُ ٱللَّهُ رَبُّكُمۡ لَهُ ٱلۡمُلۡكُۚ وَٱلَّذِينَ تَدۡعُونَ مِن دُونِهِۦ مَا يَمۡلِكُونَ مِن قِطۡمِيرٍ
ن تَدۡعُوهُمۡ لَا يَسۡمَعُواْ دُعَآءَكُمۡ وَلَوۡ سَمِعُواْ مَا ٱسۡتَجَابُواْ لَكُمۡۖ وَيَوۡمَ ٱلۡقِيَـٰمَةِ يَكۡفُرُونَ بِشِرۡڪِكُمۡۚ وَلَا يُنَبِّئُكَ مِثۡلُ خَبِيرٍ۬

He merges the night into the day (i.e. the decrease in the hours of the night are added to the hours of the day), and He merges the day into the night (i.e. the decrease in the hours of the day are added to the hours of the night). And He has subjected the sun and the moon, each runs its course for a term appointed. Such is Allah your Lord; His is the kingdom. And those, whom you invoke or call upon instead of Him, own not even a Qitmir (the thin membrane over the date-stone). If you invoke (or call upon) them, they hear not your call, and if (in case) they were to hear, they could not grant it (your request) to you. And on the Day of Resurrection, they will disown your worshipping them. And none can inform you (O Muhammad ) like Him Who is the All-Knower (of each and everything). [Al-Fatir. 13-14]

Allah [The Exalted] says:

حُنَفَآءَ لِلَّهِ غَيۡرَ مُشۡرِكِينَ بِهِۦ‌ۚ وَمَن يُشۡرِكۡ بِٱللَّهِ فَكَأَنَّمَا خَرَّ مِنَ ٱلسَّمَآءِ فَتَخۡطَفُهُ ٱلطَّيۡرُ أَوۡ تَهۡوِى بِهِ ٱلرِّيحُ فِى مَكَانٍ۬ سَحِيقٍ۬

Hunafaa’ Lillah (i.e. to worship none but Allah), not associating partners with Him; and whoever associates partners to Allah, it is as if he had fallen from the sky, and the birds had snatched him, or the wind had thrown him to a far-off place. [Al-Hajj 31] fall_from_the_sky_snatched_by_birds

Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

If the heart loves Allah and devotes all the religion sincerely to Him, it will not give a share of this love to anyone else, let alone being afflicted with infatuation; but when afflicted with infatuation, this is due to its deficient love of Allah. This is why due to Yusuf’s, peace be upon him, love of Allah and sincerely devoting all the religion to Allah alone, he did not depart from it; rather Allah said:

ڪَذَٲلِكَ لِنَصۡرِفَ عَنۡهُ ٱلسُّوٓءَ وَٱلۡفَحۡشَآءَ‌ۚ إِنَّهُ ۥ مِنۡ عِبَادِنَا ٱلۡمُخۡلَصِينَ

Thus it was, that We might turn away from him evil and illegal sexual intercourse. Surely, he was one of Our chosen, guided slaves.

But as for the wife of the Azeez, she and her people were polytheists, and due to this she was afflicted with infatuation. [2]

Those people whose hearts are infatuated with images receive the greatest punishment and the smallest reward. This is because if the heart of the one who is infatuated with images continues to be attached and is enslaved, various types of evils, loss and corruption will be gathered for him, which none besides Allah can enumerate. Even if he is safe from committing a major lewd act, the continuous attachment of the heart to the image without committing a lewd act is a greater than the harm that afflicts a person who commits a sin and then repents, thus the effect of that sin ceases to exist in his heart. The greatest aspect of this calamity is when the heart turns away from Allah. This is because when the heart tastes the worship of Allah and being sincere to Him, there will never be anything sweeter than that- neither tastier and enjoyable nor better. A person does not abandon something beloved to him except due to another beloved thing that is more beloved to him, or due to fearing harm. The heart is turned away from a corrupt love by an upright love or due to fearing harm. Allah, The Exalted said about Yusuf, peace be upon him:

ڪَذَٲلِكَ لِنَصۡرِفَ عَنۡهُ ٱلسُّوٓءَ وَٱلۡفَحۡشَآءَ‌ۚ إِنَّهُ ۥ مِنۡ عِبَادِنَا ٱلۡمُخۡلَصِينَ

Thus it was, that We might turn away from him evil and illegal sexual intercourse. Surely, he was one of Our chosen, guided slaves. [Yusuf. 24]

Thus, Allah turned His servant away from that which would plunge one into evil due to inclining towards an image and being attached to it, and turns him away from lewd conduct due to his sincerity to Allah. [3]

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

Hearts that are emptied of love for Allah, turned away from Him and seeking remedy from others besides Him, are afflicted with infatuation with images. This is because when the heart is filled with love for Allah and a strong love for meeting Him, this infatuation with images is repelled from it. For this reason, Allah, The Most High, stated about Yusuf, peace be upon him:

كَذَٰلِكَ لِنَصْرِفَ عَنْهُ السُّوءَ وَالْفَحْشَاءَ ۚ إِنَّهُ مِنْ عِبَادِنَا الْمُخْلَصِينَ

Thus it was, that We might turn away from him evil and illegal sexual intercourse. Surely, he was one of Our chosen, guided slaves.

This shows that sincerity is a means to repelling (evil). Because of this, some of the pious predecessors said: “Infatuation is an agitation in empty hearts”. Meaning: emptied of other than what they crave for. [4]

Abu Bakr As-Siddiq, may Allāh be pleased with him, reported that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him, said, “By the One in whose hand my soul is, Shirk is more hidden than the creeping of an ant. Shall I not guide you something that, if you were to do it, would remove it from you – get both minor and major? Say:

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ أَنْ أُشْرِكَ بِكَ وَأَنَا أَعْلَمُ وَأَسْتَغْفِرُكَ لِمَا لا أَعْلَمُ

O Allah! I seek refuge in You lest I associate partners with You while I know, and I seek Your forgiveness for what I do not know. [Sahih Adab Al-Mufrad 554]

There  is also another hadith reported by Abu Musa Al-Ash’ari, may Allāh be pleased with him, that testifies to the text of this hadith. He said, “One day, Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him, gave us a sermon and said, ‘O people! Beware of this Shirk, for indeed it is more hidden than a creeping ant’. Then the one whom Allah wished to speak said to him, ‘O Messenger of Allah! How can we beware of it whilst it is more hidden than a creeping ant?’ He said, ‘Say:

 اللَّهُمَّ
إِنَّا نَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ أَنْ نُشْرِكَ بِكَ شَيْئًا نَعْلَمُهُ ، وَنَسْتَغْفِرُكَ لِمَا لَا نَعْلَمُ

O Allah! We seek refuge in You lest we associate partners with You through something we know and we seek Your forgiveness for what we do not know. [Sahih at-Targhib Wat-Tarhib 36]

This hadith highlights the greatest evil for which an individual seeks protection from Allah, as Shirk is the greatest wrong and the gravest sin.

Allah [The Exalted] said:

وَإِذۡ قَالَ لُقۡمَـٰنُ لِٱبۡنِهِۦ وَهُوَ يَعِظُهُ ۥ يَـٰبُنَىَّ لَا تُشۡرِكۡ بِٱللَّهِ‌ۖ إِنَّ ٱلشِّرۡكَ لَظُلۡمٌ عَظِيمٌ۬

And (remember) when Luqman said to his son when he was advising him: “O my son! Join not in worship others with Allah. Verily! Joining others in worship with Allah is a great Zulm (wrong) indeed. [Luqmaan. 13]

Allah [The Exalted] said:
إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ لَا يَغۡفِرُ أَن يُشۡرَكَ بِهِۦ وَيَغۡفِرُ مَا دُونَ ذَٲلِكَ لِمَن يَشَآءُ‌ۚ وَمَن يُشۡرِكۡ بِٱللَّهِ فَقَدِ ٱفۡتَرَىٰٓ إِثۡمًا عَظِيمًا

Verily, Allah forgives not that partners should be set up with him in worship, but He forgives except that (anything else) to whom He pleases, and whoever sets up partners with Allah in worship, he has indeed invented a tremendous sin. [An-Nisaa. 48]

Allah [The Exalted] said:
وَمَن يُشۡرِكۡ بِٱللَّهِ فَقَدۡ ضَلَّ ضَلَـٰلاَۢ بَعِيدًا
Whoever sets up partners in worship with Allah, has indeed strayed far away. [An-Nisaa. 116]

The verses of the Qur’an regarding the danger of Shirk and the greatness of its crime are numerous. In the hadith, there is a clarification regarding the fact that Shirk can be hidden in a manner similar to the hidden crawling ant. It may be so hidden that a person commits it and enters into it discreetly without knowing. This shows the great caution one should have regarding it and the obligation of knowing it, so that one is cautious of it and keeps away from it, whilst adhering to the path of Allah path, asking Allah to protect you from all the types of Shirk, from its evil and its disastrous consequences. [5]


[1] An Excerpt from Tafsir As-Sadi.

[2] Majmu Al-Fataawaa 10/135

[3]Al-Ubudiyyah 114-115

[4] at-Tib An-Nabawi. page180

[5] An Excerpt from ‘Fiqh Al-Ad’iyah Wal Ad’kar’ 4/501-502

[5] Shaytan

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

Allah [The Exalted] informed us in Soorah An-Nisaa Ayah 119 that shaytaan said:

[وَلَأُضِلَّنَّهُ “Verily, I will mislead them]- Meaning, from the truth. [وَلَأُمَنِّيَنَّهُم – And surely, I will arouse in them false desires]; Ibn Abbas said, “Iblees desires to hinder them from repentance and that they delay it”. (1)

[وَلَآمُرَنَّهُمْ فَلَيُبَتِّكُنَّ آذَانَ الْأَنْعَامِ – I will order them to slit the ears of cattle]- Meaning, cut off the ears of the cattle.

[وَلَآمُرَنَّهُمْ فَلَيُغَيِّرُنَّ خَلْقَ اللَّهِ – And indeed I will order them to change the nature created by Allah]; Ibn Abbas said, “Iblees intends by this the religion of Allah. And the meaning is that Allah created his slaves upon an upright fitrah (i.e. an upright natural disposition that enables them to recognize Allah, accept the call of the messengers when it reaches them and worship Allah alone), as He (the most high) said:

فَأَقِمْ وَجْهَكَ لِلدِّينِ حَنِيفًا ۚ فِطْرَتَ اللَّهِ الَّتِي فَطَرَ النَّاسَ عَلَيْهَا ۚ لَا تَبْدِيلَ لِخَلْقِ اللَّهِ ۚ ذَٰلِكَ الدِّينُ الْقَيِّمُ وَلَٰكِنَّ أَكْثَرَ النَّاسِ لَا يَعْلَمُونَ

So set you (O Muhammad) your face towards the religion of true Monotheism- Hanifa (worship none but Allah Alone)- Allah’s Islamic Monotheism with which He has created mankind. No change let there be in the Religion of Allah’s Islamic Monotheism, that is the straight religion, but most of men know not. [مُنِيبِينَ إِلَيْهِ وَاتَّقُوهُ – (Always) Turning in repentance to Him (only), and be afraid and dutiful to Him]. [Ar-Rum. 30-31]

And that is why the Prophet said, “Every child is born on a Fitrah [a natural disposition to recognize Allah, accept the call of the messengers when it reaches them and worship Allaah alone], but his/her parents convert them him/her to Judaism, Christianity or Magianism, as an animal gives birth to a perfect baby animal. Do you find it mutilated?” Then after (narrating this hadeeth) Abu Hurairah recited: [فِطْرَتَ اللَّهِ الَّتِي فَطَرَ النَّاسَ عَلَيْهَا- Allah’s Islamic Monotheism, with which He has created mankind].

Therefore, the Prophet mentioned two affairs: alteration of the sound natural disposition through Judaism and Christianity and the alteration of the original natural physical appearance of the creation through mutilation. They are two affairs which iblees said that he must change-alteration of the natural disposition (through) incitement towards disbelief and alteration of the original natural physical appearance through mutilation. So he changes the sound innate natural disposition through incitement to Shirk and alteration of the original natural appearance through cutting and mutilation. This one is alteration of the sound innate natural disposition of the soul and that one is alteration of the original natural appearance of the creation. [2]

And Allah [The Exalted] stated about Iblees:
قَالَ فَبِمَآ أَغۡوَيۡتَنِى لَأَقۡعُدَنَّ لَهُمۡ صِرَٲطَكَ ٱلۡمُسۡتَقِيمَ –
ثُمَّ لَآتِيَنَّهُمْ مِنْ بَيْنِ أَيْدِيهِمْ وَمِنْ خَلْفِهِمْ وَعَنْ أَيْمَانِهِمْ وَعَنْ شَمَائِلِهِمْ وَلاَ تَجِدُ أَكْثَرَهُمْ شَاكِرِينَ

(Iblis) said: “Because You have sent me astray, surely I will sit in wait against them (human beings) on Your Straight Path. Then I will come to them from before them and behind them, from their right and from their left, and You will not find most of them as thankful ones (i.e. they will not be dutiful to You).” 7-16-17]

[ثُمَّ لَآتِيَنَّهُم مِّن بَيْنِ أَيْدِيهِمْ – Then I will come to them from before them and behind them], meaning, “I will bring doubts to them about the Hereafter”. [وَمِنْ خَلْفِهِمْ – and behind them], meaning, “I will make them covetous for the worldly things”. [وَعَنْ أَيْمَانِهِمْ – and from their right], meaning, “I will make their religion obscure (by making them hold onto doubtful matters which they would consider to be the truth)”. [وَعَن شَمَائِلِهِمْ – and from their left], meaning, “I will command them to commit evil deeds, urge them toward it and beautify it in their eyes”.

It has also been reported from Ibn Abbas who said that Iblees did not say, “And from above them” because he knows that Allah is above them. Qatadah said, “O son of Adam! Shaytaan comes to you from every direction but not from above because he is not able to come between you and the Mercy of Allah”. (3)


[1] A’laam Al-Muwaqqi’een 1-67-69
[2 & 3]: Ighaathatul Lahfaan 1/105-107

[3] Shaytan

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

Allah [The Exalted] said:

يَـٰٓأَيُّہَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوٓاْ إِنَّمَا ٱلۡخَمۡرُ وَٱلۡمَيۡسِرُ وَٱلۡأَنصَابُ وَٱلۡأَزۡلَـٰمُ رِجۡسٌ۬ مِّنۡ عَمَلِ ٱلشَّيۡطَـٰنِ فَٱجۡتَنِبُوهُ لَعَلَّكُمۡ تُفۡلِحُونَ
إِنَّمَا يُرِيدُ ٱلشَّيۡطَـٰنُ أَن يُوقِعَ بَيۡنَكُمُ ٱلۡعَدَٲوَةَ وَٱلۡبَغۡضَآءَ فِى ٱلۡخَمۡرِ وَٱلۡمَيۡسِرِ وَيَصُدَّكُمۡ عَن ذِكۡرِ ٱللَّهِ وَعَنِ ٱلصَّلَوٰةِ‌ۖ فَهَلۡ أَنتُم مُّنتَہُونَ
وَأَطِيعُواْ ٱللَّهَ وَأَطِيعُواْ ٱلرَّسُولَ وَٱحۡذَرُواْ‌ۚ فَإِن تَوَلَّيۡتُمۡ فَٱعۡلَمُوٓاْ أَنَّمَا عَلَىٰ رَسُولِنَا ٱلۡبَلَـٰغُ ٱلۡمُبِينُ

O you who believe! Intoxicants (all kinds of alcoholic drinks), gambling, Al-Ansab , and Al-Azlam (arrows for seeking luck or decision) are an abomination of Shaitan‘s (Satan) handiwork. So avoid (strictly all) that (abomination) in order that you may be successful . Shaitan (Satan) wants only to excite enmity and hatred between you with intoxicants (alcoholic drinks) and gambling, and hinder you from the remembrance of Allah and from As-Salat (the prayer). So, will you not then abstain? And obey Allah and the Messenger (Muhammad ), and beware (of even coming near to drinking or gambling or Al-Ansab, or Al-Azlam, etc.) and fear Allah. Then if you turn away, you should know that it is Our Messenger’s duty to convey (the Message) in the clearest way. [Al-Maa’idah. 90-92]

Abdullah Ibn Umar, may Allah be pleased with him, said that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “Allah has cursed alcohol, the one who drinks it, the one who pours it, the one who sells it, the one who buys it, the one who squeezes (the grapes etc), the one for whom it is squeezed, the one who carries it and the one to whom it is carried.” [Sahih Abi Dawud 3674]

Anas Bin Malik, may Allah be pleased with him, said: Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “Allaah cursed ten with regard to alcohol: the one who squeezes (i.e. the thing used to make it], the one for whom it is squeezed, the one who drinks it, the one who carries it, the one to whom it is carried, the one who pours it, the one who sells it and consumes its price, the one who buys it and the one for whom it is bought”. [Tirmidhi 1295]

The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Indeed, a people from my Ummah will drink alcohol, [and] give it other than its [real] name”.

Al-Allamah Zaid Bin Hadi al-Mad’khali, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “This hadith contains a Prophetic miracle in relation to the information given by the Prophet about a matter of the unseen and that this will definitely occur. What the Prophet stated that alcohol will be given a name other than its real name will definitely occur. Indeed – in our era – alcohol has been given another name to deceive the people and urge them towards it, such as the name Mashrub Ruhi [i.e. (The sprightly drink or the drink that makes you lively), instead of giving its real name Khamr (i.e. alcohol) as it is said, Al-Khamru Takh’murul Aql – Alcohol veils (or obscures) the intellect]. And they have given it other names as well but it does not isolate it from the fact that it is khamr [alcohol] and it is forbidden”. [1]

Ibn Umar said: The Messenger forbade [two matters related to eating and drinking]: sitting at a table where alcohol is consumed and a man who eats whilst lying on his stomach.

Allamah Zaid Bin Hadi al-Mad’khali, may Allah have mercu upon him, said:

In this hadith, there is guidance regarding the manners of eating food, because these two deeds are not from good manners. Firstly, sitting at a table where alcohol is consumed: It is not permissible for a Muslim to sit at a table where alcohol is consumed, because alcohol is the mother of all evil and a person is not safe [in such a situation]. The least sin regarding this affair is that one has shown approval to the one who consumes alcohol at a table. Secondly, regarding the [deed of] a man who eats whilst lying down on his stomach, it has been reported in a narration that the Messenger said about lying on one’s stomach whilst sleeping, “Indeed, it is a way of lying down that Allah hates”. [Sahih Al-Jami 2271]

It is not permissible for a man to lie on his stomach, rather he should lie down on his back, or on his right side and that is noblest manner of lying down, or on his left side and there is no harm in that. [2]

Read articles on the links: Huge Global Study in the Lancet: There Is No Safe Limit in the Consumption of Alcohol (And the Prohibition of Alcohol in the Qur’an):

http://www.shariah.ws/articles/suokooj-there-is-no-safe-limit-in-the-consumption-of-alcohol-and-the-prohibition-of-alcohol-in-the-quran.cfm

Muslim Attitudes to Alcohol and Intoxicants: The effect upon societies and individuals:
https://www.abukhadeejah.com/muslim-attitudes-to-alcohol-and-other-intoxicants-and-their-apparent-effects-upon-societies-islam-4-4/

The Dangerous Effects of Drugs & Alcohol in Society in Light of the Quran & Sunnah:
https://www.abukhadeejah.com/the-evil-effects-of-drugs-alcohol-in-society-in-light-of-the-quraan-sunnah/

WHY DO MUSLIMS NOT DRINK ALCOHOL? A brief explanation of the wisdoms behind Islam’s prohibition of alcohol and its benefit to society:

 

https://twitter.com/AbuIyaadSP/status/869850059277467648?s=09/embed

https://twitter.com/AbuIyaadSP/status/869850059277467648?s=09/embed


[1] at-Taleeqaat Al-Maleehah Alaa Silsilah Al-Ahaadeeth As-Saheehah. 1/338
[2] at-Taleeqaat Al-Maleehah Alaa Silsilah Al-Ahaadeeth As-Saheehah. 1/408

Wellbeing

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

Imam Abdul Aziz Bin Baz, may Allah have mercy upon him, was asked: The question is from Imran Farghali. He is an Egyptian residing in Al-Qassim, (specifically) in Buraidah. He says in this message, “Is it permissible for a person to supplicate to their Lord to distance him from trials and tribulations related to the religion, oneself, wealth, or children, despite the fact that it is mentioned in Allah’s mighty book (i.e. that one will face trial)?

أَحَسِبَ النَّاسُ أَنْ يُتْرَكُوا أَنْ يَقُولُوا آمَنَّا وَهُمْ لا يُفْتَنُونَ

Do people think that they will be left alone because they say: “We believe,” and will not be tested. (Al-Ankabut 2)

وَلَنَبْلُوَنَّكُمْ بِشَيْءٍ مِنَ الْخَوْفِ وَالْجُوعِ وَنَقْصٍ مِنَ الأَمْوَالِ وَالأَنفُسِ وَالثَّمَرَاتِ وَبَشِّرِ الصَّابِرِينَ

And certainly, We shall test you with something of fear, hunger, loss of wealth, lives and fruits, but give glad tidings to As-Sabirin (the patient ones, etc.). (Al-Baqarah 155)

And the statement of Allah, The Exalted, regarding what some hypocrites said to Allah’s the Messenger during the departure for some military campaigns:

ائْذَنْ لِي وَلا تَفْتِنِّي أَلا فِي الْفِتْنَةِ سَقَطُوا وَإِنَّ جَهَنَّمَ لَمُحِيطَةٌ بِالْكَافِرِينَ

Grant me leave (to be exempted from Jihad) and put me not into trial.” Surely, they have fallen into trial. And verily, Hell is surrounding the disbelievers. (Al-Tawbah 49)

Response: Yes, you (are permitted) to ask, and you should seek refuge in Allah from the trials, both those that are apparent and those that are hidden, as well as from the misleading trials. The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, sought refuge from such trials, and the authenticity of this has been reported from him. The fact that these trials occur does not mean that one is prevented from seeking refuge from them that they should not to occur. [Footnote a] Some people are led astray by a trial and face destruction. There is nothing to prevent you from asking your Lord, saying: “Protect me from the trials, both those that are apparent and those that are hidden. O Allah, protect me from the misleading trials. O Allah, protect me from the trials related to my wealth and my children.” You should ask your Lord for wellbeing that He protects you from these trials because wealth can be a trial, children can be a trial, and certain spouses and relatives can also be a trial. You should ask your Lord for wellbeing, for you may find yourself put to trial by your child, thus, you become misguided; you may be put to trial through your wealth, thus, you become misguided; you may be put to trial through your wife, thus, you become misguided through her; you may be put to trial through your friends, thus, you become misguided through them and other than that. Asking Allah for wellbeing that He (protects you) from trials is Amrun Matlub (i.e. something sought from a Muslim in the Shariah, either obligatory or recommended). [1]

Asking Allah For Wellbeing

Abdullah Bin Umar, may Allah be pleased with him, said: Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, never abandoned these supplications in the morning and evening:

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ العافِيَـةَ فـي الدُّنيا والآخِرَةِ، اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ العَفْوَ والعافِيَـةَ فـي دِيني ودُنْـيايَ وأَهْلِي ومالِي، اللَّهُمَّ اسْتُـرْ عَوْراتِي، وآمِنْ رَوْعاتِي،
اللَّهُمَّ احْفَظْنِـي مِنْ بَـيْنِ يَدَيَّ، ومِنْ خَلْفِي، وعَنْ يَمِيـنِـي، وعَنْ شِمالِي، ومِنْ فَوْقِي، وأَعُوذُ بِعَظَمَـتِكَ أَنْ أُغْتالَ مِنْ تَحْتِـي

O Allah! I ask You for well-being in this Dunyaa and the Aakhirah. O Allāh, I ask You for pardon and well-being in my religion, my worldly affairs, my family and my wealth. O Allah! Conceal my (faults, shortcomings etc) and safeguard me against everything that will bring me fear and sorrow. O Allah! Protect me from in front, from behind me, from my right and my left, and from above. And I seek refuge with Your Magnificence from being swallowed up from beneath me.

This great supplication begins with one asking Allah for [العافِيَـةَ -wellbeing] in the Dunyaa and Aakhirah. Nothing can be equal to wellbeing, for whoever is granted well-being then indeed he has received his complete share of good.

Seeking [العَفْوَ -pardon] necessitates that one is forgiven for his sins and they are wiped away. As for [العافِيَـةَ – Well-being], it is safety Allah bestows on a servant of His- protects him against every punishment and trial, by averting evil from him, protecting him against calamities and ailments, evil and sins. Thus, the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, asked for wellbeing in the Dunyaa and Aakhirah, as well as wellbeing in his religion, worldly affairs, his family and wealth.

Well-being in one’s religion is protection against everything that will bring dishonour to one’s religion or deprive him of it. Well-being in the Dunyaa is to seek protection against everything that will harm the person in his worldly affairs, such as calamities or trials, severe poverty and ailments. Well-being in the Aakhirah is to seek protection against the extreme hardships in the Aakhirah and its various punishments. Well-being in one’s family is that they are protected from trials, calamities and tests; wellbeing in one’s wealth is that it is protected from drowning, burning, theft etc… [اللَّهُمَّ اسْتُـرْ عَوْراتِي – O Allah! Conceal my faults, shortcomings etc] [ وآمِنْ رَوْعاتِي – safeguard me against every affair that will frighten me and bring sorrow upon me].

اللَّهُمَّ احْفَظْنِـي مِنْ بَـيْنِ يَدَيَّ، ومِنْ خَلْفِي، وعَنْ يَمِيـنِـي، وعَنْ شِمالِي، ومِنْ فَوْقِي، وأَعُوذُ بِعَظَمَـتِكَ أَنْ أُغْتالَ مِنْ تَحْتِـي

O Allah! Protect me from in front, from behind me, from my right and my left, and from above. And I seek refuge with Your Magnificence from being swallowed up from beneath me.

Meaning: Asking Allah to protect you against destructive things and evils which a person is exposed to from the six directions, for indeed evil can approach from the front, behind, the right, the left, above or below, and he does not know which direction calamity will suddenly come upon him. [2]

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Footnote a: Shaikh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

” وكل داع شافع دعا الله سبحانه وتعالى، وشفع: فلا يكون دعاؤه وشفاعته إلا بقضاء الله وقدره ومشيئته، وهو الذي يجيب الدعاء ويقبل الشفاعة، فهو الذي خلق السبب والمسبب، والدعاء من جملة الأسباب التي قدرها الله سبحانه وتعالى ” انتهى من”مجموع الفتاوى”(1/131

Shaikh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy on him, stated: “Every suppliant and seeker of intercession who invokes Allah, Glorified and Exalted be He, and seeks intercession, their invocation and seeking intercession cannot be except by Allah’s Qadaa wal Qadr, and His Will. He is the one who responds to supplications and accepts intercession. He is He who created both the cause and the effect, and supplication is among the means that Allah has decreed.” [3]

Imam Abdul Aziz Bin Baz, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

فالأقدار تردها الأقدار التي جعلها الله سبحانه مانعة لها، والأقدار المعلقة على وجود أشياء كالبر والصلة والصدقة توجد عند وجودها، وكل ذلك داخل في القدر العام المذكور في قوله سبحانه: إِنَّا كُلَّ شَيْءٍ خَلَقْنَاهُ بِقَدَرٍ

Imam Abdul Aziz Bin Baz, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: The things Allah has decreed are repelled by other things Allah has decreed which Allah has made a means of stopping them. The decreed matters that are connected to the occurrence of other things, such as charity, kindness, and maintaining family ties, occur only when those actions are present. All of this falls under the encompassing decree that is mentioned in Allah’s statement:

إِنَّا كُلَّ شَيْءٍ خَلَقْنَاهُ بِقَدَرٍ

“Verily, all things. We created (them) with Qadar (their prior determination and ordainment inscribed in the Preserved Tablet)..” https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/search/54_49 [4]

Listen to an important lecture by Shaikh Abu Iyaad, may Allah preserve him, on Al-Qadaa wal-Qadar: https://youtu.be/hKgIjOKSNQQ?si=z7s8SUuQc4R9BXm9


[1]

https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/7275/%D8%AD%D9%83%D9%85-%D8%B3%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%B3%D9%84%D9%85-%D8%B1%D8%A8%D9%87-%D8%A7%D9%86-%D9%8A%D8%AC%D9%86%D8%A8%D9%87-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%81%D8%AA%D9%86

[2] An Excerpt from Fiqh Al-Ad’iyah Wal Ad’kar 3/32-33

[3] Majmu’ al-Fatawa” (1/131)

[4]

https://binbaz.org.sa/speeches/266/%D8%AC%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%A8-%D8%B3%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84-%D8%AD%D9%88%D9%84-%D8%B1%D8%AF-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%82%D8%B6%D8%A7%D8%A1-%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%82%D8%AF%D8%B1-%D8%A8%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AF%D8%B9%D8%A7%D8%A1-%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B5%D8%AF%D9%82%D8%A9#:~:text=%D9%81%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A3%D9%82%D8%AF%D8%A7%D8%B1%20%D8%AA%D8%B1%D8%AF%D9%87%D8%A7%20%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A3%D9%82%D8%AF%D8%A7%D8%B1%20%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AA%D9%8A%20%D8%AC%D8%B9%D9%84%D9%87%D8%A7,%D9%8A%D8%B7%D9%81%D8%A6%20%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%A7%D8%A1%20%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%86%D8%A7%D8%B1%20%D9%88%D8%B1%D9%88%D9%8A%20%D8%B9%D9%86%D9%87

Another link: https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/3437/%D9%87%D9%84-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AF%D8%B9%D8%A7%D8%A1-%D9%8A%D8%B1%D8%AF-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%82%D8%AF%D8%B1

The goal is to leave this world free from Fitan!

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

Mu’adh bin Jabal, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated:O

One morning, Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, was prevented from coming to us for morning prayer until we were just about to look for the eye of the sun (meaning sunrise). Then he came out quickly and the Iqama was called for him to (lead) the prayer. Allah’s Messenger performed the prayer, and he performed his prayer in a relatively quick manner. When he said the Salam, he called aloud with his voice saying to us: ‘Stay in your rows as you are.’ Then he turned coming near to us, then he said: ‘I am going to narrate to you what kept me from you this morning: I got up during the night, I performed Wudu and prayed as much as I was able to, and I dozed off during my prayer, and fell deep asleep. Then I saw my Lord, Blessed and Most High, in the best of appearances. He said: ‘O Muhammad!’ I said: ‘My Lord here I am my Lord!’ He said: ‘What is it that the most exalted group busy themselves with?’ I said: ‘I do not know Lord.’ And He said it three times.” He said: “So I saw Him place His Palm between my shoulders, and I sensed the coolness of His Fingertips between my breast. Then everything was disclosed for me, and I became aware. So He said: ‘O Muhammad!’ I said: ‘Here I am my Lord!’ He said: ‘What is it that the most exalted group busy themselves with?’ I said: ‘In the acts that atone.’ He said: ‘And what are they?’ I said: ‘The footsteps to the congregation, the gatherings in the Masajid after the prayer, the correct performance of ablution during difficulties.’ He said: ‘Then what else?’ I said: ‘Feeding others, being lenient in speech, and prayer during the night while the people are sleeping.’ He said: ‘Ask.’ I said:

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ فِعْلَ الْخَيْرَاتِ وَتَرْكَ الْمُنْكَرَاتِ وَحُبَّ الْمَسَاكِينِ وَأَنْ تَغْفِرَ لِي وَتَرْحَمَنِي وَإِذَا أَرَدْتَ فِتْنَةَ قَوْمٍ فَتَوَفَّنِي غَيْرَ مَفْتُونٍ أَسْأَلُكَ حُبَّكَ وَحُبَّ مَنْ يُحِبُّكَ وَحُبَّ عَمَلٍ يُقَرِّبُ إِلَى حُبِّكَ

‘O Allah! I ask of you the doing of the good deeds, avoiding the evil deeds, loving the Masakin, and that You forgive me, and have mercy upon me. And when You have willed trial among the people, then cause me to die without being put to trial. And I ask You for Your love, the love of whomever You love, and the love of the deeds that bring one nearer to Your love.'” Allah’s Messenger said: “Indeed it is true, so study it and learn it.” [Sahih at-Tirmidhi 3235]

“O Allah! I ask of you the doing of the good deeds, avoiding the evil deeds”.

There is no need for further explanation regarding the performance of good deeds, other than the fact that they are actions that please Allah, and the doer is praised for them, receiving great rewards. Similarly, the reward for abstaining from wrongdoing is also significant, provided that the intention behind refraining is to seek Allah’s pleasure.

“And loving the Masakin”.

The word Miskin in this sentence “The term refers to the humble individual, neither arrogant nor haughty, someone who is gentle, approachable, and easy to deal with; neither boastful nor evil. (1)

“And when You have willed trial among the people, then cause me to die without being put to trial”.

The essence of the supplication is to ensure the person’s safety from worldly trials throughout their life. If Allah decrees a trial for His servants, He may take them before it occurs. This is one of the most significant supplications, as a believer who lives free from trials and is taken by Allah before they arise is saved from all evil. The Prophet instructed his companions to seek refuge in Allah from both apparent and hidden trials. In another narration, he advised them to avoid both manifest and concealed immoralities and trials. Thus, praying for death out of fear of religious trials is permissible, as it has been done by the companions and righteous individuals after them. (footnote a)

“And I ask You for Your love, the love of whomever You love, and the love of the deeds that bring one nearer to Your love”.

This supplication encompasses all that is good. The chosen actions of Allah’s servants arise from love and intention. If the love of Allah is firmly established in a person’s heart, it will lead to actions of the limbs that align with what Allah loves and approves. Thus, one will cherish all actions and words that Allah loves, resulting in the performance of all good deeds and the avoidance of all wrongdoings, as well as loving those whom Allah loves among His creation. (2)

Footnote a:

O Allaah! Let Me Live If Life is Good For Me And Let Me Die if Death is Good For Me


(1) An Excerpt from “Al-Istidhkar. 8/ 171” by Al-Allamah Ibn Abdul Barr, may Allah have mercy upon him.

(2) An Excerpt from “Ikhtiyar Al-Awwal” 118-125 by Imam Ibn Rajab, may Allah have mercy upon him.