Powerful Advice from a Nurturing Scholar: Avoid Anything that Causes Worry, Sadness, & Distress

 

Powerful Advice from a Nurturing Scholar: Avoid Anything that Causes Worry, Sadness, & Distress

Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen (may Allah have mercy on him) said:

“Strive to distance yourself from anything that brings worry, sorrow, or distress so that you may always remain at ease, with a content and open heart, focused on Allah, His worship, and your worldly and spiritual affairs. If you practice this, you will find relief. However, if you burden yourself with regret over the past or excessive concern for the future in a way not sanctioned by Islamic teachings, know that you will exhaust yourself and miss out on much goodness.”

(Fath Dhi al-Jalali wal-Ikram 3/533).

[To read this text translated into Spanish Language, click here]

DON'T BE AMAZED BY YOUR ACTIONS!

 

DON'T BE AMAZED BY YOUR ACTIONS!

Allāh described His believing slaves as those who perform righteous actions, are obedient, and strive in worship while they fear their Lord with severe fear because they do not know if their actions will be accepted or not. Therefore, the person must not be amazed by his actions regardless of what he does, because if Allāh does not accept it, then it will have no benefit, even if his actions are numerous and great. If his actions are not accepted, they will be like scattered dust particles; thus, it will have been toil and hard work without benefit.

Book: Sittings in the Month of Ramadān 

By Shaykh Sālih Al-Fawzān 

Translated by Raha Batts and Rasheed Barbee 

Authentic Statements Publications 

P. 185, 186

[To read this text in Spanish Language, click here]

When you think about spending [in the way of Allāh] remember that...

 

When you think about spending

 [in the way of Allāh]  remember that...

‏تذكر يا أخي عندما تفكر في الإنفاق فيأتيك الشيطان فيأمرك بالبخل ويعدك الفقر فكر أنك إذا خلفت هذا المال فلا بد أن يورث لن يدفن معك.

تفسير سورة الحديد ص 503

Shaykh al-‘Uthaymeen [may Allāh have mercy on him] said:

“O’ my [beloved] brother, remember when you think about spending [in the way of Allāh] Satan comes to you, commands you with miserliness and threatens you with poverty. [But know] when you leave behind this wealth, it will be inherited and never will it be buried with you.”

Tafseer Surah al-Hadeed | Page 503 | Shaykh al-‘Uthaymeen [may Allāh have mercy on him]

Translation: Authentic Quotes

[To read this text in Spanish language click here]

THAT ONE MOMENT..

 THAT ONE MOMENT.. 

Al-Junayd, may Allāh have mercy on him, said,

"If a man worships Allāh for one thousand years, and then he turns away from Him for one moment, then what he missed in this moment is more than what he gained [in the one thousand years of worship]." *

* This athar was mentioned in Hilyatu'l-Auliyā' by Abū-Nu'aym (10/278).

Book: Awaking From The Sleep of Heedlesness

By al-Hāfiz Abū'l-Faraj ibn al-Jawzī

Translated and Published by

Dār as-Sunnah Publishers 

P. 31

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How to Become the Most Devout, Careful and Richest Person

How to Become the Most Devout,

Careful and Richest Person

It is reported that ʿAbdullāh b. Masʿūd – Allāh be pleased with him – said:

Fulfil what Allāh has obligated you to do and you will be from the most devout of people, stay away from what Allāh has forbidden you and you will be from the most careful of people, and be satisfied with what Allāh has apportioned for you and you will be from the richest of people.

Hannād b. Al-Sarī, Al-Zuhd, article 1032.

[To read this article in Spanish click here]


Taken from: https://www.sayingsofthesalaf.net/how-to-become-the-most-devout-careful-and-richest-person/

Fasting: The Great Act of Worship : Shaykh ibn Uthaymeen

Fasting: The Great Act of Worship 

By Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih Al- ‘ Uthaymeen

This revised edition, produced with the permission of the author and the translator, includes some corrections to the original translation, changes to the English, the addition of the Qur’aanic text, changes to the translations of the meanings of the Qur’aan and hadeeths, changes in the system of transliteration of Arabic terms, and the addition of references and some explanatory notes.

In response to our request to publish this revised edition, Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen wrote : “ Wa- alaykum us – salaam wa rahmatullaahi wa barakaatuh. As Dr. Saleh As–Saleh  has authenticated the translation of the booklet, I have no objection for you to print it on the condition that it will not have any copyright if we want to print it again. Written by Muhammad ibn Saalih Al – Uthaymeen, dated 1/9/1418 hijri. The booklet mentioned is the booklet on fasting.”

Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih Al- ‘Uthaymeen.  

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

 All praise is due to Allaah, and may Peace and blessings be on His Messenger Muhammad.

THE VIRTUES OF RAMADHAAN

Abu Hurayrah رضي الله عنه narrated that Allah’s Apostle صلي الله عليه وسلم said, “ When the month of Ramadhaan starts, the gates of Jannah (Paradise) are opened and the gates of Hell are closed, and satans are chained.”(1) The gates of Jannah are opened in this month because a great deat of righteous deeds are performed, and as an encouragement for those who seek Allaah’s reward. The gates of Hell are closed because few sins are committed by believers. The Satans will be chained so that they may noy have the chance they have in other months to whisper into the hearts of the believers and misguide them.

Allaah has prescribed fasting and it obligatory upon all nations. He said :

) يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ الصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى الَّذِينَ مِنْ قَبْلِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ) (البقرة:183)

O you who believe ! fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al – Muttaqoon (the pious). [Al- Baqarah (2) : 183]

If fasting were not a great act of worship, and the reward thereof were not so great, Allah would not have Presceibed it on all nations.

Among the virtues of fasting is that it is a means for atonement of sins. It is narrated on the authority of Abu Hurayrah رضي الله عنه that the Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم said : “ He who observes the fast of the month of Ramadhaan out of sincerity and hope for the reward from Allaah will have his past sins forgiven.”(2) That is, when fasting is observed out of belief and without resentment to it as an act of worship or doubt in its reward, Allaah will forgive the past sins of the one who observes it.

Abu Hurayrah رضي الله عنه reported the Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم as saying : “ Allaah said: All the deeds of Adam’s children belong to them, except fasting, which belongs to me and I will reward it. Fasting is a shield (against the Hell and against the commission of sins). If one of you happens to be fasting he should avoid sexual relations with his wife, and should avoid quarrelling. Should someone fight or quarrel with him let him say, ‘ I am fasting.’ By Him in Whose hand my soul is, the smell of the month of a fasting person is better in the sight of Allaah than that of the musk.”(3) It is a shield because it safeguards the believer from vain talk and wrongdoing, and hence protects him from Hell.

Of all the good deeds, Allaah has favored fasting to be greatly rewarded by Him and distinguished it with prestige when it is observed with the pure intention to please Him alone.

Fasting is so meritorious for a believer that he will have two occasions of joy. The first is at the time of breaking his fast, when he enjoys the bounties of Allaah because he has been favored with Allaah’s mercy to observe the fast while many others have been deprived of this great blessing. He will rejoice in the second occasion when he meets his Lord and enjoys the abundant reward for having observed fasting (4). In addition to this, fasting intercedes with Allaah on behalf of the believer on the Day of Judgment.(5)

WHEN DOES FASTING BEGIN AND END ?

Fasting begins upon sighing the new moon. Allaah said:

) فَمَنْ شَهِدَ مِنْكُمُ الشَّهْرَ فَلْيَصُمْهُ)(البقرة: من الآية185)

 So whoever of you sights (the crescent on the first night of) the month (of Ramadhaan), he must fast that month. [Al- Baqarah (2) : 185]

However, it is not incumbent on everyone to sight the new moon. Rather, if a trustworthy Muslim testifies that he has sighted it, then everyone must observe fasting. Abu Hurayrah رضي الله عنه narrated : “ A Bedouin came to the Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم and reported, ‘ O Prophet, I have seen the new moon of Ramadhaan.’ Thereupon the prophe صلي الله عليه وسلم asked the man, ‘Do you bear witness that “ Laa ilaaha illaaah”. ( i.e. there is no god worthy of being worshipped beside Allah) ?’ ‘ I do,’ said the bedouin. The Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم further asked him whether he testifies that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah. The Bedouin affirmed that, too. Thereupon, the Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم asked Bilaal رضي الله عنه to announce to the people to begin their fast the next day.”(6)

Ibn ‘ Umar رضي الله عنه also confirmed the practice of sighting the new moon in his report : “ The People were seeking the new moon. Having sighted it myself, reported it to the prophet. صلي الله عليه وسلم He began his fast and ordered the people to begin theirs, too.”(7)

He who sights the new moon of Ramadhaan must inform those in authority in the Muslim government or community. Once the Muslim government announces the beginning of Ramadhaan upon the sighting the new moon it becomes binding on the rest of Muslims to begin their fast.(8)

It should be borne in mind, however, that astronomical calculations must be ruled out from the sharee’ah and must not be relied on for sighting the moon, as the Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم has ruled that Muslims must begin their fast upon seeing the new moon, not upon calculating the month astronomically. It is only when it becomes hard to see the new moon due to weather conditions when Muslims may complete the month of Sha’baan, which precedes Ramadhaan, as Thirty days.(9) The lunar month is either 29 or 30 days. It has neither fewer nor more days.(10)


WHO SHOULD FAST AND WHO SHOULD NOT ?

Fasting is obligatory on the mature sane and healthy Muslim. Those who are immature (i.e. young children) are encouraged to fast. Exempted are those who suffer terminal illness, or are too old to fast. Allah does not overburden His slaves.

Permission to abstain from fasting is granted to the travelers who do not travel for the purpose of breaking their fast. Even though it is permissible to break fast durning travel, it is praiseworthy to fast while traveling if no hardship imposed. In any case, travelers should make up the days they missed fasting in Ramadhaan once Ramadhaan is over and they are back home.

As for those whose sickness does not allow them to fast, they fall into three categories:

If it is neither hard nor harmful for them, they must observe fasting.
If it is hard, but not harmful for them, they are permitted to break their fast.
If it is harmful for them, then they must abstain from fasting.
It is stated in the Qur’aan:

) يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا لا تَأْكُلُوا أَمْوَالَكُمْ بَيْنَكُمْ بِالْبَاطِلِ إِلَّا أَنْ تَكُونَ تِجَارَةً عَنْ تَرَاضٍ مِنْكُمْ وَلا تَقْتُلُوا أَنْفُسَكُمْ إِنَّ اللَّهَ كَانَ بِكُمْ رَحِيماً) (النساء:29)

) وَلا تُلْقُوا بِأَيْدِيكُمْ إِلَى التَّهْلُكَةِ)(البقرة: من الآية195)

Do not kill yourselves. [An- Nisaa’ (4) : 29] – Baqarah (2) : 195]

The prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم was reported to have said, “ There is (to be) no harm or reciprocating harm.”(13)

The days that are missed in Ramadhaan must be made up once Ramadhaan is over.

During the monthly period or period of post-natal bleeding, women are to abstain from fasting,(14) but must make up the days they missed after the fasting month is over. The Pregnant or breastfeeding woman whose health or the health of the suckling baby might be affected by fasting should break her fast and make up the missed days after Ramadhaan.

It is also recommended for those who engage in combat in the way of Allah to break their fast. The Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم told his companions in one of the battles, “ You are going to meet your enemy in the morning, abstaining from fasting is better for your strength, so break your fast.” (15)


THE WISDOM BEHIND FASTING

Fasting is a great act of worship the Muslim performs by turning away from his own desires in order to please his Lord, hoping for His reward. Common sense dictates that one would not give up desired things except for the sake of more desirable ones, in this case the pleasure of Allah, which is the most sought after desire.

It is also a means if achieving piety and righteousness. The Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم said, “ He who does not give up forged speech and evil actions, Allah needs not his refraining from eating or drinking.”(16) In other words, Allah does not accept his fast.

The heart, through fasting, is inclined to maintain its tenderness since the desires are not sought, but rather shunned, and thus the heart tends to be more receptive to the words of Allah.

The rich person will, through fasting, be more appreciative of Allaah’s graces and bounties. He also will suffer the deprivation the poor and needy experience under normal circumstances. Thus he will be motivated to help them. Fasting helps depress pride or egoism and maintains humbleness. Moreover, fasting has health advantages by means of decreasing the intake of food and relaxing the digestive system. Great is the wisdom of Allah, and great are His Graces !


OBLIGATORY CONDITIONS OF FASTING

Performing the other acts of worship and duties is most important, and salaah is of particular importance, as without it no other act of worship is accepted by Allah.(17) Praying in congregation is a great aspect in our religion. Everyone should attend.(18) Its reward is twenty seven times greater than that which is performed individually.(19) At one time the prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم was about to burn the houses on those who did not attend the congregational prayers.(20)

Refraining from bad behavior such as lying, cheating, music, smoking, backbiting and slandering others to create animosity among them. The Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم said, “ No slanderer shall enter paradise.”(21) The prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم said, “ There will exist in ummah those who will deem unlawful things lawful (such as) fornication, silk for men, intoxicating beverages and musical instruments.”(22) my

PRAISEWORTHY ETIQUETTE OF FASTING

* Taking the meal of suhoor. The prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم said: “ Take (the meal of) suhoor because there is blessing in it.”(23) He also said: “ The difference between our fasting and that of the people of the book is taking the meal of suhoor.”(24) Even taking a cup of water in lieu of a meal for suhoor has blessing in it, too.

Breaking the fast as soon as the sun sets.(25)
Making du’aa upon breaking fast.(26)
Reciting as much Qur’aan as possible during the monthe of Ramadhaan.
PRACTICES WHICH BREAK THE FAST

Sexual intercourse in the daytime. The willful violation of the fast by this practice requires the fast of sixty consecutive days in order to make up for the day in which the intercourse took place.(27)
Whllful ejaculation by means of kissing or caressing, etc. Wet dreams and unintentional ejaculation do not break the fast.
Eating, drinking, smoking or taking any food substitutes, such as receiving blood, glucose, or I. V. substances while observing the fast.
Willful, not unintentional, vomiting.
Menstrual bleeding.(28)
Days in which the above practices 2 through 5 took place are to be made up a day for a day once Ramadhaan is over.

On the other hand, the application of kuhl ( surmah), eye, ear or nose drops do not break the fast; they are neither food nor a substitute thereof. Wearing perfumes, using the siwaak or toothbrush without toothpaste do not break fast since it has been reported that the Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم used to do so.(29)

QIYAAM OR TARAAWEEH PRAYER

Allah has made five daily prayers obligatory on the Muslims, which He, due to His Grace, made the reward thereof fifty-fold.(30) He also encourages the believers to perform supererogatory of naft prayers. Among these is the night prayer which falls between midnight and dawn. Allah praised those who engage themselves in prayer at night:

) تَتَجَافَى جُنُوبُهُمْ عَنِ الْمَضَاجِعِ يَدْعُونَ رَبَّهُمْ خَوْفاً وَطَمَعاً)(السجدة: من الآية16)

Their sides forsake their beds to invoke their Lord in fear and hope …. [As- Sajdah (32):16]

The prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم said : “ The best prayer next to obligatory is the night prayer.”(31) In another tradition he said : “O people ! Spread the (Islamic) greeting (i.e. by saying ‘ assalaamu alaykum”), give the food (to those who need it), connect your relatives (by visitation) and pray at night while the others are asleep, and you shall enter Jannah peacefully.”(32) Of the night prayer is Witr, the minimum of which is one rak’ah and maximum of which is eleven rak’ahs.(33)

Performing night prayer in Ramadhaan is far more superior to the performing in any other month by virtue of its recommendation by the prophet, صلي الله عليه وسلم who said, “Whoever prayed at night in it ( i. e. Ramadhaan) out of sincere faith and hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven.”(34)

Taraaweeh prayer is considered the night prayer in Ramadhaan, and, therefore, one should take good care the observe it, To pray taraaweeh in jamaa’ah (congregation) is a sunnah initiated by our beloved prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم and revived by the second Rightly-Guided Khaleefah, Umar رضي الله عنه (35) Though there has been a difference if opinion among the scholars in the past as to how many rak’ahs taraaweeh should be, all of them unanimously agreed that the best is to apply the sunnah of performing it with eleven rakahs only. The prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم did not pray more than eleven rak’ahs in Ramadhaan or any other month. ‘ Aa’ishah, the wife of the prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم said, “ The prophet never prayed more than eleven rak’ahs at night in Ramadhaan or in any other month.(36)

The full reward of taraaweeh is obtained only when it is performed in jamaa’ah. The person who performs it in jamaa’ah will be considered, according to authentic tradition, as if he spent the rest of that night praying.”(37)

THE VIRTUES OF RECITING THE QUR’AAN.

There are two types of Qur’aan recitation :

1. Practical recitation, which means reading with belief in and application of the orders of Allah and refraining from the unlawful things.

2. Word recitation.

There are many hadeeths in which emphasis is laid on the great reward for those who recite the Qur’aan. The prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم said, “ The best of you is he who learns the Qur’aan and teaches it.”(38) He also said : “ The one who excels in reciting the Qur’aan will be in the company of the honored angels.”(39) And, “ The example of the believer who reads the Qur’aan is like that of the utrujah (a citrus fruit) which has a beautiful fragrance and a beautiful taste. While the example of the believer who does not read the Qur’aan is like that of the date fruit : It has sweet taste, but has no fragrance.”(40) He also said : “ He who recites One letter of the Book of Allaah, will be rewarded for it, and the reward will be multiplied in folds.”(41)

There are certain soorahs of the Qur’aan that have more reward for their recitation. The prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم verified that Satan does not enter the house wherein Soorat Al- Baqarah(42) is recited. When one recites Ayaatul-Kursi(43) at the night, as the prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم informed us, he shall be protected by Allah, and Satan shall not come near him till he wakes up in the morning.(44) The same results may be achieded by the recitation of the last two verses of Soorat Al- Baqarah,(45) as well as the last three soorahs of the Qur’aan.(46)

Our pious predecessors used to busy themselves extensively in reciting the Qur’aan during the month of Ramadhaan. It was customary for them not to go beyond ten verses before they learned the rulings and the knowledge those ten verses contained.

ETIQUETTES OF READING THE QUR’AAN

The Qur’aan which we recete contains the actual words of Allah revealed to Muhammad صلي الله عليه وسلم . Therfore, we should observe the following when recition it :

1. Seek refuge in Allah before reading it (viz. أعوذ بالله من الشيطان الرجيم

“ A’oothu billaahi minash – shaytaanir-rajeem)”

2, Have the intention that the recitation thereof is purely to seek the pleasure of Allah alone.

3. Recite with an alert heart that you may comprehend its contents, imagining while reciting it that Allah is speaking to you though the Qur’aan.

4. Make sure you are clean before touching the Qur’aan. Do not read it when you are in the state of impurity.(47)

5. Do not read the Qur’aan in lavatories or similar places.

6. Read it slowly with pleasant sound and rhythm.

7. Prostrate wherever a verse requires prostration.

THE VIRTUES OF THE LAST TEN DAYS OF RAMADHAAN AND LAYLAY AL-QADR

It has been reported that the Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم used to put extra effort in his devotion in the last ten days of Ramadhaan.(48) He used to awaken his family in the night that they may not lose the benefit of those bledded nights.(49) It is also reported that he used to make ‘ ittikaaf by spending the last ten days in the masjid.(50)

Laylat al Qadr means the night of honor and decree. It is sometimes erroneously into the night of power. The Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم recommended to be sought in the last ten days of Ramadhaan. This night is valued to be better than a thousand months spent in devotion to Allah. One of the privileges of this night is that the Qur’aan was revealed in it. In it too, the angels descend to earth with blessings, goodness and mercy (51) . It is a peaceful night in which many are saved from the Hell. Forgiveness of past sins is granted to those who spend it busying themselves in prayer and the remembrance of Allah. (52) The prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم said, “Seek it in the odd nights of the last third of Ramadan.(53)

Reference:

1. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/English), vol. 3, # 123, and Saheeh Muslim (English trans.) # 2361 & 2362. one wording of Muslim is “ the gates of mercy are opened.”

 2. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/English), vol. 3, # 125.

3. Saheeh Al – Bukhaari (Arabic/ English), vol.3, # 118 and #128, and Saheeh Muslim (English trans) # 2567.

4. Saheeh Al Bukhaari (Arabic/English), vol. 3, # 128, and Saheeh Muslim (English trans). # 2567.

5. The Porphet صلي الله عليه وسلم said, “ Fasting and the Qur’aan intercede for the servant on the Day of Resurrection. Fasting will say : O my Lord ! I prevented him from food and desires, so accept my intercession for him ; and the Qur’aan will say : I prevented him from sleep at night, so accept my intercession for him. So their intercession will be accepted.” Reported by Ahmad, Al Haakim, Abu Nu’aym and others from ‘ Abdullaah ibn ‘ Amr. Its chain of narrators is hasan. [Fasting in Ramadaan by Shaykhs saleem Al- Hilaalee and ‘ Alee Hasan ‘ Alee ‘ Abdul – Hameed, p. 5]

6. Sunan Abee Daawud (English trans), # 2333 and # 2334. It is weak according to Al- Albanni.

7. Sunan Abee Daawud (English trans), # 2335. Its chain of narration is saheeh.

8. “Some scholars take into account the divisions amongst the Muslim countries related to the beginning and end of fasting. They advise that in the absence of one Khilaafah governing all Muslims, It is incumbent upon Muslims to follow their repective coutries as to when to fast and when to break the fast. This minimizes the divisions occurring within the same country where people fast according to different rulings.” (See Shaykh Al – ‘ Uthaymeen’s Ash- Sharh Al- Mummti” ‘ alaa zaadil- Mustaqni,” vol.6, p. 322 and Shaykh Al – Albaani’s Itmaa’tul- Minnah fee at- Ta’leeq ‘ alaa fiqhis-sunnah, p. 398). According to Shaykhul- Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah, “ The criteria upon which fasting becomes bound upon Muslims is that the informantion regarding the moon sighting reaches them in a reasonable amount of time to be able to act upon it.”

( Jaami lilikhtiaaraat Al- Fiqhiyah li-Shaykhul – Islaam Ibn Taymeeyah by Dr. Ahmad Mawaafi [ Dammam, Saudi Arabia: Daar Ibn Jawzi, 1413/1993], pp. 438-444.) And Allah knows best.

9. Saheeh Al- Bakhaari (Arabic/English), vol. 3, # 130,133, and Saheeh Muslim (English trans.), # 2363-2381. It should also be noted that it is not permissible to fast a day or two before Ramadhaan thinking that it might be Ramakhaan. Abu Hurayrah رضي الله عنه reported that the prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم said, “ None of you should pre-empt Ramadhaan by fasting a day or two before it, except for a man fasting his usual fast, then let him fast that day.” ( Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/English), vol. 3, # 138)

10. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/ English), vol. 3, # 132, 134-135, and 137, and Saheeh Muslim (English trans) # 2384-2390.

11. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/English, vol. 3. # 181.

12. The Prophet # was asked about fasting on a journey and he said , “ Fast if you wish and break it if you wish “ . Saleh Al – Bukhaari (Arabic / English ) Vol . 3 # 164 and Saheeh Muslim ( English Tans. ) # 2487 ] Ibn Abbas رضي الله عنه said , “ Do not condemn one who obsees fast’ or one who does not observe it (in a journey ), for the messenger of Allah # observed it (in a journey), for the messenger of Allah # Observed fast in a journey or he did not observe it (too). [ Saheeh Muslinm (English Trans.) # 2471 ]

13. Ahmad, ibn Maajah; Saheeh [ Saheeh Al- Jaami. As sagheer, # 7517]

14. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/English), vol, 3. # 172. for more information on this subject, refer to The Natural Blood of Women by Shaykh ibn ‘Uthaymeen, translated by Dr. Saleh As- Saleh [ Buraidah , Saudi Arabia ; Dar Al- Bukhari, 1994]

15. Saheeh Muslim (English trans), # 2486

16. Saheeh Muslim (English trans), # 2486. In a fatwah (religious ruling), the Shaykh further explained that the fasting of a person who engages in forbidden speech is not invalidated, but its reward is diminished. The gravity of his sin may be such that it outstrips any reward for his fasting. [ Fataawa As – Siyaam ( Riyadh : Maktabt Al- Furqaan, n.d.)]

17. This is based upon the ruling of one group of scholars that whoever abandons the salaah is a kaafir, and thus, none of his deeds are accepted. The basis for this ruling is several hadeeths in which the prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم indicated that abandoning the prayer is disbelief, such as, “ Between a man and shirk and kufr is only the abandonment of the salaah.” [ Muslim and Ahmad; Saheeh Al Jaami As sagheer, # 2848] Another group of scholars divides those who do not pray into categories, judging them according to their intention. An excellent discussion of the two opinions can be found in the book on the issue of Takfeer by Shaikh Ahmad Fareed [ Suffolk , U. K : Jam’iat Ihyaa’ Minhaaj Al- Sunnah, 1997]

18. Saheeh Al – Bukhaari (Arabic/English), vol.3, # 127. This statement is directed to men. As for the woman, the best place for her to pray is in her home. The prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم said, “ Do not prevent your women (from going to) the masjids, but their houses are better for them.” [Ahmad, Abu Daawud, Al- Haakim saheeh. Saheeh al- Jaami As- Sagheer, # 7458]

19. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/ English), vol, 1. # 618, and Saheeh Muslim (English trans), # 1365

20. This was because of the gravity of their sin. Saheeh Al – Bukhaari (Arabic/ English), vol. 1, # 617. and Saheeh Muslim (English trans), # 1369.

21. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/English, vol, 8, # 82, and Saheeh Muslim (English trans), # 189 Also refer to The Bad Consequences of the Tongue by Shaykh Ahamad Zamzami ( Suffolk , U.K: Jam’iat Ihyaa’ Minhaaj al- Sunnah, 1995) and Gossip and its Adverse Effect on the Muslim Community by Husayn Al- Awayishah [ Bvirut: Ibn Hazm Publishing House, 1997]

22. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/ English), vol. 7, # 494 (B).

23. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/ English), vol, 3, # 146 , and saheeh Muslim (English trans.), #2412. The blessing in it is form obeying the prophet’s orders and following his example, as well as the physical blessing, which is nutrition for the body in order to have the strength to fast. [See Fataawa As- Siyaam, P 40]

24. Saheeh Muslim (English trans.) # 2413.

25. Saheeh al- Bukhaari (Arabic/ English), vol . 3,#178. and Saheeh Muslim (English trans), #1491.

26. Sunan Abee Daawud (English trans). #2350. Also reported by Al- Bayhaqi, Al- Haakim and others, and Daraqutni declared its isnaad (Chain of narrators) to be hasan (acceptable).

27. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/English), vol, 3, #157, and Saheeh Muslim (English trans), # 2457.

28. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/English), vol. 3, #172. This is regardiless of what time of day menses begins. This rule also applies to post-natal bleeding.

29. The prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم said “ The stwaak is a means of cleansing the month and pleasing the Lord.” [ Saheeh al- Jaami, As- Sagheer # 3695]

30. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/English), vol. 1, # 345.

31. Saheeh Muslim (English trans), # 2611-2612; See Saheeh Al- Jaami As- Sagheer #1116.

32. Reported by Ahmed, At- Tirmithi, Ibn Maajah and Al- Haakim, saheeh [ Saheeh Al- jaami, #7865].

33. Saheeh Muslim (English trans), # 1641.

34. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/English), vol. 3, # 226, and Saheeh Muslim (English trans), # 1662.

35. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/English), vol, 3.# 227-229. See also Saheeh Muslim (English trans), # 1667.

36. Saheeh Al- Bukhari (Arabic/English), vol. 2, # 248 & vol. 3, #330, and Saheeh Muslim (English trans), # 1607.

37. This is part of a lengthy hadeeth recorded by At- Tirmithi.

38. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/English), vol. 6, # 545 & 579.

39. Saheeh Muslim (English trans), # 1745.

40. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/English), vol. 6, # 538, and Saheeh Muslim (English trans), # 1743.

41. At- Tirmithi and Al- Haakim, saheeh [ Saheeh Al- Jaami As- Sagheer, 6469]

42. Saheeh Muslim (English trans) # 1707.

43. The 255 th ayah of Soorat Al- Baqaraj (2).

44. Saheeh Al- Bakhaari (Arabic/English), vol. 6, #530.

45. The first edtion of this booklet said “ the last ten ayahs,” but Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen confirmed that this was an error. The prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم said, “Whoever recited the last two verses of soorat Al- Baqarah at night, that will be sufficient for him.” [ Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/English), vol. 6, # 530.]

46. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/English), vol, 6, #536-A.

47. i. e. if you need to make gust.

48. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari ( Arabic / English ), vol. 3 # 241 and Saheeh Muslim ( English Trans).# 2643-2644.

49. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari ( Arabic / English ), col.3, #241 and Saheeh Muslim ( English Trans) # 2643.

50. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari ( Arabic / English ), col.3, #241 and Saheeh Muslim ( English Trans)# 2636

51. Soorat Al- Qadar (97).

52. Saheeh Al- Bukhaari (Arabic/ English ), vol 1 # 34 & vol.3 # 231 and Saheeh Muslim (English trans.) # 1665.

53. Saheeh Al Bukhaari ( Arabic/ English ), Vol.3 # 234; See also vol.3, # 233-240.

Source: binothaimeen.com/soft/lang/Fasting.exe

[This article has been translated into Spanish language, click here to have a look]

Taken from: https://abdurrahman.org/2014/01/29/fastinguthaimeen/

al-Istighfaar: The Obligation after An Obligation

al-Istighfaar: The Obligation 

after An Obligation

بسم الله والحمد لله والصلاة والسلام على رسول الله ، وبعد

Allaah تعالى says:

﴿ثُمَّ أَفِيضُوا مِنْ حَيْثُ أَفَاضَ النَّاسُ وَاسْتَغْفِرُوا اللَّـهَ ۚ إِنَّ اللَّـهَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ﴾

{Then depart from the place from where [all] the people depart and ask Allaah for forgiveness. Indeed, Allaah is Oft-Forgiving and Most-Merciful.} [Surah al-Baqarah (2): 199]



Shaikh al-Sa`dee رحمه الله said:

“Allaah تعالى commands the one who has completed the rituals of Hajj (like stoning, slaughtering etc.), to seek His forgiveness (Istighfaar) and to do a lot of Dhikr (Remembrance). Seeking forgiveness is for the shortcomings and the negligence which happened while the slave (of Allaah) carried out the acts of worship; and Remembering Allaah is for Thanking Allaah for His blessings upon him by accommodating him in carrying out these duties and for His vast favors.

It behooves the slave, that whenever he completes the acts of worship (like the Salaah), he should seek Allaah’s forgiveness for his shortcomings and thank Him for His assistance in carrying out the duties. Don’t be like the one who thinks that he has completed his duties (flawlessly) and regards it as doing a favor to Allaah and who thinks highly about himself. This one deserves to be detested and have his deeds rejected - unlike the first one - who deserves to (have his deeds) accepted and assisted in doing more good deeds.”


[Tafseer al-Sa`dee (1/92)]





Source

The Categories of Istighaathah from the Explanation of Kashfush-Shubuhaat (Removal of Doubts)

The Categories of Istighaathah from

the Explanation of Kashfush-Shubuhaat

(Removal of Doubts)

Stated Shaykh Muhammad Ibn Abdul-Wahhaab in Kashfush-Shubuhaat (Removal of Doubts):

“So that only His salvation (istighaathah) would be sought, and such that all acts of worship would be directed to Allaah alone.”

Imaam Muhammad Ibn Saalih al-’Uthaymeen’s (d.1420H) explanation of this statement is as follows:

The word istighaathah means to seek relief and salvation at times of hardship and when on the verge of destruction. It can be divided into four categories:

• The First Category: Seeking relief and salvation (istigaathah) from Allaah (subhaanahu wa ta’aala) which is from the best and most perfect of actions. It was the practice of the Messengers (alaihimus-salaam) and their followers. And the proof of this can be found in the statement of Allaah (tabaaraka wa ta’aala),
  “Remember when you sought the help of your Lord, and He answered you: Indeed, I will reinforce you with a thousand angels, following one another in succession.” [Sooratul-Anfaal 8:9]
• The Second Category: Seeking salvation (istighaathah) from the dead or from individuals who are living but absent and unable to provide any assistance; this type of (istighaathah) is polytheism (Shirk). This is because this type of action is not done except by someone who believes that those who he is calling upon possess some type of control and influence over creation. So they have attributed a share of Lordship (ar-ruboobiyyah) to the creation. Allaah (tabaaraka wa ta’aala) says,
  Isn’t the One who responds to the desperate whenever they call upon Him; who removes the harm; and who makes you inheritors of the earth? Can there be another besides Allaah? Little do you reflect?” [Sooratun-Naml 27:62]
• The Third Category: Seeking relief and salvation from those who are living and able to provide assistance. This is permissible and it is just like seeking their aid. Allaah said concerning the story of Moosaa (alaihis-salaam),
  “And the one from his faction who called for help against one of his enemies, so Moosaa struck him and [unintentionally] killed him.” [Sooratul-Qasas 28:15]
• The Fourth Category: Seeking relief and salvation from a living person who is unable to provide the necessary assistance without believing that he possesses any special influence over the creation. An example of this is if help was sought from someone who is paralyzed to repel an advancing army of the enemy. This is considered useless and mockery of the one whose aid was sought. So this action is prohibited for this reason and because it might be interpreted by others to suggest that the one whose aid was sought despite his handicap possessed a hidden power that allows him to save people in times of adversity.

Source: Explanation of Muhammad Ibn ‘Abdul-Wahhaab’s Removal of Doubts, Imaam Muhammad Ibn Saalih al-’Uthaymeen (d.1420H), Translation by Qasim Mutiva, Sunnah Publishing, pp.103-105.

Source: http://islamtees.wordpress.com/

This text has been translated in spanish, to read it click here

Four Principles of Worship

Four Principles of Worship

“(The Âyah): “You alone do we worship.” [Sûrah al-Fâtihah 1:5] is built upon four principles:- Ascertaining what Allâh and His Messenger love and are pleased with, from [i] the sayings of the heart and [ii] of the tongue; and [iii] the actions of the heart and [iv] of the limbs.

So al-’ubûdiyyah (servitude and slavery to Allâh) is a comprehensive term for all these for stages. The one who actualizes them has indeed actualized: “You alone do we worship.”

The saying of the heart: It is i’tiqâd (belief) in what Allâh - the Most Perfect - informed about His Self; concerning His Names, His Attributes, His Actions, His Angels, and all that He sent upon the tongue of His Messenger sallallâhu ’alayhi wa sallam.

The saying of the tongue: It is to inform and convey (what Allâh has revealed), to call to it, defend it, to explain the false innovations which oppose it, to establish its remembrance and to convey what it orders.

The action of the heart: Such as love for Him, reliance upon Him, repenting to Him, having fear and hope in Him, making the Dîn purely and sincerely for Him, having patience in what He orders and prohibits, having patience with what He decrees and being pleased with it, having allegiance and enmity for His sake, humbling oneself in front of Him and having humility in front of Him, becoming tranquil with Him and other than this from the actions of the heart which are actually connected to the action of the limbs ... and actions of the limbs without the action of the heart is of little benefit, if any benefit at all.

The action of the limbs: Such as Prayer and Jihâd, attending the Jumu’ah and being with the Jamâ’ah, aiding those who are unable and displaying goodness and kindness to the creation, and other than this.”

[Madârijus-Sâlikîn (1/100-101)]

--------------
Reference:
Fawaa'id - Points of Benefit - by Imâm Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah

Characteristics of the scholars

Characteristics of the scholars

Q: Many students of religious knowledge know a lot of the supererogatory acts and their reward, such as Qiyam-ul-Layl (optional Prayer at night), but they do not observe them. They know but do not practice what they know.

A: The good deeds that the texts support their merits are of two kinds:

Wajib (obligatory): Muslims, whether scholars or not, have to pay attention to this kind of act and fear Allah in this regard; they have to keep on performing them like the five obligatory prayers, Zakah (obligatory charity), and other obligations.

Mustahab (desirable) such as Qiyam-ul-Layl, Salat-ul-Duha (supererogatory Prayer after sunrise) and the like.

It is prescribed for the Mu'min (believer), particularly the scholars, to keenly observe these acts, for they set an example. If one sometimes quits these acts, there is nothing wrong with this, for they are Nafilah (supererogatory act of worship). However, the scholars and righteous people should take care and keep on doing these acts, such as Qiyam-ul-Layl, Salat-ul-Duha and other kinds of Al-Sunan Al-Rawatib (supererogatory acts that were stressed and regularly performed by the Prophet) and other good deeds.


Fatwas of Ibn Baz

(Part No. 8; Page No. 352)
Volume Number 8, Characteristics of the scholars

http://alifta.com/Fatawa/FatawaChapters.aspx?View=Page&PageID=1111&PageNo=1&BookID=14

فتاوى ابن باز

تصفح برقم المجلد > المجلد الثامن > من صفات أهل العلم

من صفات أهل العلم

س: كثير من طلبة العلم اليوم يعرفون كثيرًا من فضائل الأعمال وأجرها ومنها قيام الليل، ولا يفعلون هذا حيث إِنهم يَعْلَمون ولا يَعْمَلون.

ج : الأعمال التي جاءت النصوص ببيان فضلها قسمان:

قسم واجب: فعلى المرء المسلم سواء كان عالمًا أو غير عالم أن يعتني به، وأن يتقي الله في ذلك، وأن يحافظ عليه كالصلوات

(الجزء رقم : 8، الصفحة رقم: 352)

الخمس وأداء الزكاة وغيرهما من الفرائض.

وقسم مستحب: كالتهجد بالليل وصلاة الضحى ونحو ذلك.

فالمشروع للمؤمن أن يجتهد في ذلك ويحرص عليه، ولا سيما أهل العلم؛ لأنهم قدوة، ولو شغل عن ذلك أو تركه بعض الأحيان لم يضره ذلك؛ لأنه نافلة، لكن من صفات أهل العلم والأخيار العناية بهذا الأمر، والمحافظة عليه، كالتهجد بالليل وصلاة الضحى والرواتب إِلى غير ذلك من وجوه الخير.

http://alifta.com/Fatawa/FatawaChapters.aspx?View=Page&PageID=1111&PageNo=1&BookID=4

To read this article in spanish click here

Do you WorshipThe Creator?

 Do you WorshipThe Creator?

________________________________________________________________________
Have you heard of the story of Noah’s ark? Of course, everyone has heard the story
of the great flood; but do you know the sin of Noah’s people which caused the wrath
of The Creator to come upon the Earth?  In fact Noah’s people were guilty of
committing the gravest of sins.

Who is the Creator?

Most people would agree that this vast magnificent  universe did not happen by
chance.  Rather most believe that it was created, perfected and arranged by
SOMEONE who is All Wise, and All Knowing.  The Muslims and The Arab
Christians refer to Him by the name of  ALLAH, which when translated into the
English Language simply means,
“ THE GOD.”

ALLAH says, In Chapter 7 of  the Qu`ran verse 54, what can be translated as,
“Indeed your Lord is ALLAH, Who created the heavens and the earth in Six
Days, and then He rose over the Throne. He brings the night as a cover over
the day, seeking it rapidly, and He created the sun, the moon, and the stars,
(all) subjected to His Command.  Surely, His is the Creation and Commandment.  Blessed is Allah, the Lord of  the Worlds and all that exists!
ALLAH alone is The Creator of  the Universe, The Owner of  the Universe, The
One who arranges all of  the affairs of  the Universe.  He alone is the Lord of  the
Universe and everything which is in it.
WILL YOU NOT AGREE…..?


What is the right of  The Creator over His creation ?
Now that we have agreed that The Creator is One, and that He alone has the ability
to bring about benefit, or to prevent harm, and that He alone is the one who fashions
man in the womb, and He is the only provider for all of  the creation.  Then we must
agree that He alone deserves to be worshipped.
WOULDN’T YOU AGREE…?

ALLAH says in Chapter 2 verses 21, and 22 of  the Qu`ran
“O mankind!  Worship your Lord (ALLAH), Who created you and those who
were before you so that you may become pious.  Who has made the earth a
resting place for you, and the sky as a canopy, and sent down water (rain) from
the sky and brought forth therewith fruits as a provision for you.  Then do not
set up rivals unto ALLAH (in worship) while you know (that He Alone has the
right to be worshipped).”

What is The Greatest Sin?

The Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him  was asked, “What is the
greatest sin?”  He said,

“That you make rivals or partners with ALLAH, while He alone created you.”  
Worship is a term which includes supplication, prayer, sacrifice and vowing and it is
the exclusive right of the Creator alone.  It is not permissible to direct any act of
worship towards the created things such as Angels,  Prophets (i.e. Jesus, Moses,
Muhammad etc.), saints, cows, idols, trees, the sun, the moon, the devil, or anything
else from that which was created.

ALLAH says in Chapter 7 verse 191

“Do they attribute as partners to Allah those who created nothing, but they
themselves are created?”


ALLAH says in Chapter 22 verse 73
“O mankind! A similitude has been coined, so listen to it (carefully):
Verily! Those on whom you call besides Allah, cannot create (even) a fly, even
though they combine together for the purpose.  And if the fly snatched away a thing from
them, they would have no power to release it from the fly.  So weak are (both) the seeker and
the sought.”

Creation worship or polytheism was the sin of  Noah’s people.  They began to
worship the righteous people who had passed away, this was done as a means of
getting closer to The Creator.

Who is more deserving of  our Worship The Creator or His Creation?
Now, we know that the greatest sin is to worship other with ALLAH; when ALLAH
alone is the One Who created and sent Messengers to convey the message,  “That
none has the right to be worshiped in truth except ALLAH.”  He is the ONE
Who created the Messengers, and their behavior as examples for all of  mankind to
follow.  It must be understood that it would be an  obvious contradiction for any
Messenger of  GOD to allow others, including themselves to be worshipped, when
ALLAH alone is The Creator Who created them (and everything else).
WILL YOU NOT AGREE…..?

ALLAH says in Chapter 72 verse 18,
“And the places of  worship are for ALLAH alone, so do not call upon anyone
other than Him.”

How do I know if  I’m worshipping Allah, or Not?
ALLAH, is not part of  a trinity.  He does not resemble His creation in any aspect.
ALLAH is not a man, spirit, or an Angel. ALLAH  is the sole creator of  the entire
universe and nothing is  similar to Him.  

ALLAH says in Chapter 112
“Say: He is ALLAH the One.  The Self  Sufficient Master, whom all creatures
need (He neither eats nor drink), He begets not nor was He begotten.  And
there is none co-equal or comparable to Him.”

ALLAH says, in Chapter 2 verse 255
“ALLAH! None has the right to be worshipped but He, the Ever Living, the
One Who sustains and protects all that exists.  Neither slumber, nor sleep
overtakes Him.  To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on earth.  Who is he that can intercede with Him except with His Permission?
He knows what happens to them (His creatures) in this world, and what will
happen to them in the Hereafter.  And they will never encompass anything of
His Knowledge except that which He wills.  His footstool extends over the
heavens and the earth, and He feels no fatigue in guarding and preserving
them.  And He is the Most High, the Most Great.”

ALLAH says in Chapter 39 verse 67,
“They made not a just estimate of  Allah such as is due to Him.  And on the
Day of  Resurrection the whole of  the earth will be grasped by His Hand and
the heavens will be rolled up in His Right Hand.  Glorified is He, and high is
He above all that they associate as partners with Him!”
DO YOU WORSHIP THE CREATOR ?


Written and Compiled by
Abu Qayla Rasheed Barbee

Source: http://www.salafyink.com/introtoislaam/do_you_worship.pdf


To read this article in Spanish click here

Uthaimeen Asked About Seeking Knowledge During I’tikaaf

Uthaimeen Asked About Seeking

 Knowledge During I’tikaaf

Shaikh Uthaimeen, may Allaah have mercy on him, was asked, “Does someone who is performing i’tikaaf negate its spirit by seeking knowledge?”  He replied, “There is no doubt that seeking knowledge is obedience to Allaah the Most High, buti’tikaaf is for specific forms of worship like prayer, dhikr, reciting the Quraan and things like that.”

Ash-Sharh al-Mumti, vol. 6, p. 501.

Source: http://giftsofknowledge.wordpress.com/2012/08/09/uthaimeen-asked-about-seeking-knowledge-during-itikaaf/

The greater becomes his freedom..

The greater becomes his freedom..

Ash Shaykh al Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah Rahimahullaah said:

“The stronger the ‘abd’s desire is for the favour of Allaah and His Mercy, in accomplishing his needs and necessary requirements, the stronger his ‘Uboodiyyah to Allaah will be and the greater becomes his freedom from everything besides Allaah.”

Al Uboodiyyah by as shaykhul Islaam ibn Taymiyyah (Eng trans. pg 107)


source

Love, Fear and Hope.

Love, Fear and Hope.

Some of the salaf have said:

“Whoever worships Allaah with love alone is a zindeeq; whoever worships Him with hope alone is a Murji’; whoever worships Him with fear alone is a Hurooree and whoever worships Him with love, fear and hope is a Muwahhid”


Takhweef min an-Naar by al Hafidh ibn Rajab al Hanbali Rahimahullaah (p.g. 15)


Source