Monday, 28 May 2012
Women in Islam
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
"Verily, all praise is due to Allah. It is due to Him, and to Him alone. We praise Him and we seek His help and forgiveness. We seek refuge in Allah from the evil of our own selves and from the evil of our actions. And whomsoever Allah guides, there is none to misguide him, and whomsoever Allah leads astray none can guide him aright. I testify that there is no god worthy of worship except Allah, alone with no partner, and I testify that Muhammad (SAWS) is His slave and messenger. Indeed the best speech is the book of Allah, and the best guidance is that of Muhammad (SAWS). The worst affairs are the newly invented matters, for every newly invented matter is an innovation, and every innovation is misguidance, and every misguidance is in the Fire."
As promised finally delivering women in Islam. The issues of gender equity is important, relevant, and current. Debates and writings on the subject are increasing and are diverse in their perspectives. The Islamic perspective on the least understood and most misrepresented by non-Muslims and some Muslims as well. This article is intended to provide a brief and authentic exposition of what Islam stands for in this regard.
Women in Ancient Civilisations:
One major objective of this article is to provide a fair evaluation of what Islam contributed toward the restoration of woman's dignity and rights. In order to achieve this objective, it may be useful to review briefly how women were treated in general in previous civilisations and religions, especially those which preceded Islam (before 610 AD).
Describing the status of the Indian woman, The Encyclopedia Britannica, 1911, states: "In India, subjection was a cardinal principle. Day and night must women be women be held by their protectors in a state of dependence says Manu. The rule of inheritance and agnatic, that is descent traced through males to the exclusion of females." In Hindu scriptures, the description of a good wife is as follows: "a woman whose mind, speech and body are kept in subjection, acquires high renown in this world, and, in the next, the same same abode with her husband."
In Athens, women were not better off than either the Indian or the Roman: "Athenian women were always minors, subject to some male - to their father, to their brother, or to some of their male kin." Her consent in marriage was not generally thought to be necessary and "she was obliged to submit to the wishes of her parents, and receive from them her husband and her lord, even though he were stranger to her."
A Roman wife was described by a historian as: "a babe, a minor, a ward, a person incapable of doing or acting anything according to her own individual taste, a person continually under the guardianship of her husband." If married she and her property passed into the power of her husband...the wife was the purchased property of her husband, and like a slave acquired only for his benefit.
In Britain, the right of married women to own property was not recognised until the late 19th Century. By a series of acts starting with the Married Women's Property Act in 1870, amended in 1882 and 1887, married women achieved the right to own property and to enter into contracts on a par with spinsters, widows, and divorcees. In France, it was not until 1938 that the French Law was amended so as to recognise the eligibility of women to contract. A married woman, however, was still required to secure her husband's permission before she could dispense with her private property.
In the Mosaic (Jewish) Law, the wife betrothed. Explaining this concept the Encyclopedia Biblica, 1902, states: "to betroth a wife to oneself meant simply to acquire possession of her by payment of the purchase money; the betrothed is a girl for whom the purchase money has been paid." From the legal point of view, the consent of the girl was not necessary for the validation of her marriage.The woman being man's property, his right to divorce her follows as a matter of course." The right to divorce was held only by man.
The position of the Christian Church until recent centuries seems to have been influenced by both the Mosaic Law and by the streams of thought that were dominant in its contemporary cultures. It would be hard to find anywhere a collection of more degrading references to the female sex than the early Church Fathers provide. Lecky, the famous historian, speaks of 'these fierce incentives which form so conspicuous and so grotesque a portion of the writing of the Fathers... woman was represented as the door of hell, as the mother of all human ills. She should be ashamed at the very thought that she is a woman. She should live in continual penance on account of the curses she has brought upon the world. She should be ashamed of her dress, for it is the memorial of her fall. She should be especially ashamed of her beauty, for it is the most potent instrument of the devil. One of the most scathing of these attacks on woman is that of Tertullian: 'Do you know that you are each an Eve? The sentence of God on this sex of yours lives in this age; the guilt must of necessity live too. You are the devil's gateway; you are the un-sealer of that forbidden tree; you are the first deserters of the divine law; you are she who persuades him whom the devil was not valiant enough to attack.' Not only did the church affirm the inferior status of woman, it deprived her of legal rights she had previously enjoyed.
Saturday, 26 May 2012
Islam As a Way Of Life: Introduction
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
"Verily, all praise is due to Allah. It is due to Him, and to Him alone. We praise Him and we seek His help and forgiveness. We seek refuge in Allah from the evil of our own selves and from the evil of our actions. And whomsoever Allah guides, there is none to misguide him, and whomsoever Allah leads astray none can guide him aright. I testify that there is no god worthy of worship except Allah, alone with no partner, and I testify that Muhammad (SAWS) is His slave and messenger. Indeed the best speech is the book of Allah, and the best guidance is that of Muhammad (SAWS). The worst affairs are the newly invented matters, for every newly invented matter is an innovation, and every innovation is misguidance, and every misguidance is in the Fire."
I know I have been MIA of late, been really busy and had some pressing commitments but Alhamdhulillah I'm officially done. My sincere apologies for keeping you all waiting. On today's topic I wanna look at Islam as a way of life. This is a very long topic and Inshallah I will make it into a mini-series which will be more flowy (I know that is not a word but as you will come to know by reading this blog I tend to invent words that I think should be words and would make soo much more sense than their alternative)! Sorry I am transgressing.
Anyway, I was saying I will look at every aspect of society and how it is intergrated in Islam. For the purpose of proving that Islam is indeed a way of life.
Side note: so how did you guys find the video's by Khalid Yaseen? Should I continue with the videos or nay?? Let me know. It would be great to get some feedback, advice, anything inshallah! Jazakhallah khair!
Enough with all that... Now, as I was saying before, it is a common practise for people to try and separate their religion and their day to day life. This series is to provide you with empirical and anecdotal evidence of how the Qur'an and the Hadeeths of the Prophet PBUH encourage Muslims to not partition their lives in terms of worship, work, family, socialisation etc. Rather, integrate all and do everything for the sake of Allah and get rewards for doing it. Inshallah as I said earlier, I shall start with women and Islam. So....brace yourselves for some hard truths!!:)
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
Anyway, I was saying I will look at every aspect of society and how it is intergrated in Islam. For the purpose of proving that Islam is indeed a way of life.
Side note: so how did you guys find the video's by Khalid Yaseen? Should I continue with the videos or nay?? Let me know. It would be great to get some feedback, advice, anything inshallah! Jazakhallah khair!
Enough with all that... Now, as I was saying before, it is a common practise for people to try and separate their religion and their day to day life. This series is to provide you with empirical and anecdotal evidence of how the Qur'an and the Hadeeths of the Prophet PBUH encourage Muslims to not partition their lives in terms of worship, work, family, socialisation etc. Rather, integrate all and do everything for the sake of Allah and get rewards for doing it. Inshallah as I said earlier, I shall start with women and Islam. So....brace yourselves for some hard truths!!:)
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
Thursday, 17 May 2012
The Purpose of Life
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
"Verily, all praise is due to Allah. It is due to Him, and to Him alone. We praise Him and we seek His help and forgiveness. We seek refuge in Allah from the evil of our own selves and from the evil of our actions. And whomsoever Allah guides, there is none to misguide him, and whomsoever Allah leads astray none can guide him aright. I testify that there is no god worthy of worship except Allah, alone with no partner, and I testify that Muhammad (SAWS) is His slave and messenger. Indeed the best speech is the book of Allah, and the best guidance is that of Muhammad (SAWS). The worst affairs are the newly invented matters, for every newly invented matter is an innovation, and every innovation is misguidance, and every misguidance is in the Fire."
Dear brothers and sisters, today our topic is the purpose of life. I have thought about ways in which I would be able to articulate this topic in the most appropriate and significant way and alas, I have thought of a genius way. Some may call it a short cut, but I feel this is the best way to deliver this important and CRUCIAL topic.
Have you ever questioned why you are in this world? And I dont mean the generic things that you have to do to survive in this world like work, care for your family, eat, breathe etc. I mean why it is you were brought to this world and given the ability to do all these generic things? Have you ever thought really hard who brought you to this world? Dear brothers and sisters I dont mean our beautiful all praise worthy mothers, I mean before that. Inshallah I will not discuss this particular topic as I feel I will not do it justice and the whole purpose of this blog is to fully educate all my readers.
So I decided to go with something better, I shall give an intelligent man, a scholar and a gift to the Muslim ummah, brother Khalid Yaseen who discusses this topic in depth and explains the main purpose of life. Please watch the videos as they are very informative and will surely change your perception on Islam at least. May Allah reward Khalid Yaseen for his amazing Daw'ah and may He accept his work and grant him the highest heaven inshallah! Ameen. Enjoy folks!!
This is brother Khalid Yaseen, inshallah he has many, MANY more inspirational lectures on youtube, please check them out, it will be a reward for you inshallah.
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
Tuesday, 15 May 2012
Surat Al Farj
This recitation is by a very talented, honourable, and kind man; Hamza Egal.
May Allah reward you in abundance inshallah! Ameen.
May Allah reward you in abundance inshallah! Ameen.
Saturday, 12 May 2012
The Pillars of Iman!!
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
"Verily, all praise is due to Allah. It is due to Him, and to Him alone. We praise Him and we seek His help and forgiveness. We seek refuge in Allah from the evil of our own selves and from the evil of our actions. And whomsoever Allah guides, there is none to misguide him, and whomsoever Allah leads astray none can guide him aright. I testify that there is no god worthy of worship except Allah, alone with no partner, and I testify that Muhammad (SAWS) is His slave and messenger. Indeed the best speech is the book of Allah, and the best guidance is that of Muhammad (SAWS). The worst affairs are the newly invented matters, for every newly invented matter is an innovation, and every innovation is misguidance, and every misguidance is in the Fire."
Today's topic is faith in Islam and what that entails. The five Pillars of Islam, the ones we addressed in the previous post are built on the articles of faith. Which can simply be broken down into the following: 1. God: There is only one God with no associate or partner. All that happened the past, is happening now and is going to happen in the future is by the will of God. It is declaring that God is the Creator of everything and the sustainer of everything, it is He who gives life and causes death, and that He is unique in His Names and Attributes.
2. The Angels: Angels are created from light and execute the commands of God without question. God describes them: "Who disobey not, (from executing) the commands they receive from Allah, but do that which they are commanded." (66:6) Only Allah knows how many they are. Among them are:
Michael: In charge with the rain
The angel of death who is charged with collecting human souls
The bearers of the throne of Allah SWT
The guards of paradise and Hell, and
The two Angels who record people's deeds.
There are many more who are charged with various duties but only Allah knows how many.
3. The books of God: These include the Torah whih was revealed to Moses, the Palsm of David, the Gospel, revealed to Jesus and the last book the Qur'an which was revealed to Muhammad PBUH. THe Qur'an is the word of God, sent down to mankind for guidance against distortion, adulteration, addition or harm. Allah says:
"Verily, We, it is We who have sent down Dhikr(i.e. the Qur'an), and surely We will guard it (from corruption)." (15:9)
More than 1400 years have elapsed and not a single word of this Qur'an has been changed.
4. The Prophets of God: There were thousands of Prophets who preached God's message. Prophet Muhammad PBUH was the last Prophet for all humanity and completed the message of God. It is incumbent upon all Muslims to believe in all the Prophets and Messengers. He who denies one of them denies all. The Messengers were all sent with one mission:
Allah says: "And verily, We have sent among every Ummah (community, nation) a Messenger (proclaiming): 'Worship Allah (Alone), and avoid (or keep away from) Taghut." (16:36)
5. Day of Judgement: On this day all mankind will be raised back to life and judged by God. Those whose good deeds outweigh their bad deeds will be allowed to enter paradise and those whose bad deeds outweigh their good will be condemned to hell except whom has mercy on. Life after death: there is eternal life in paradise where one will be rewarded for living a righteous life on earth, or the fire of Hell where one will be punished for the evil that one committed.
6. Divine Decree: God's predestination of all things and events and his decree. Nothing in the universe can occur without the knowledge of God. Whatever he desires, it occurs and whatever He does not desire, doesn't occur. There is no power or any movement except by God. Islam is believing and fully accepting that there is a higher power who is responsible for creating this unimaginable world. We all know that no human is capable of such wonders, they've tried and failed miserably!
Islam is logically coming to a conclusion that a higher power exists without having to see it. Allah has shown us countless signs that He is there. All you need to do is look in the mirror. As humans we are very defiant when it comes to the unseen in religion but when it's our everyday things we don't even think to argue about it. How many of you can see the wind? Yet we all know it blows. My point is we are all ready to believe worldly things. But if u sit and really contemplate about this world, who created all of it? When you come to the answer I hope you do, ask yourself don't you think that Allah deserves all the thanks and appreciation for just creating us not mentioning all the blessings and luxury this world has to offer. We should all have faith in our Lord for He created everything. So He definitely knows what is decreed for all of us and we should be comforted with that alone that our destiny is in the hands of our Maker and not a human being or a statue that we created with our own hands.
On the authority of Omar, who said : One day while we were sitting with the messenger of Allah there appeared before us a man whose clothes were exceedingly white and whose hair was exceedingly black; no signs of journeying were to be seen on him and none of us knew him. He walked up and sat down by the prophet. Resting his knees against his and placing the palms of his hands on his thighs, he said:"O Muhammed, tell me about Islam". The messenger of Allah said: "Islam is to testify that there is no god but Allah and Muhammed is the messenger of Allah, to perform the prayers, to pay the zakat, to fast in Ramadhan, and to make the pilgrimage to the House if you are able to do so." He said:"You have spoken rightly", and we were amazed at him asking him and saying that he had spoken rightly. He said: "Then tell me about eman."He said:"It is to believe in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, and the Last Day, and to believe in divine destiny, both the good and the evil thereof." He said:"You have spoken rightly". He said: " Then tell me about ehsan." He said: "It is to worship Allah as though you are seeing Him, and while you see Him not yet truly He sees you". He said: "Then tell me about the Hour". He said: "The one questioned about it knows no better than the questioner." He said: "Then tell me about its signs." He said: "That the slave-girl will give birth to her mistress and that you will see the barefooted, naked, destitute herdsman competing in constructing lofty buildings." Then he took himself off and I stayed for a time. Then he said: "O Omar, do you know who the questioner was?" I said: "Allah and His messenger know best". He said: "He was Jebreel (Gabriel), who came to you to teach you your religion." Narrated by Muslim.
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
"Verily, all praise is due to Allah. It is due to Him, and to Him alone. We praise Him and we seek His help and forgiveness. We seek refuge in Allah from the evil of our own selves and from the evil of our actions. And whomsoever Allah guides, there is none to misguide him, and whomsoever Allah leads astray none can guide him aright. I testify that there is no god worthy of worship except Allah, alone with no partner, and I testify that Muhammad (SAWS) is His slave and messenger. Indeed the best speech is the book of Allah, and the best guidance is that of Muhammad (SAWS). The worst affairs are the newly invented matters, for every newly invented matter is an innovation, and every innovation is misguidance, and every misguidance is in the Fire."
Today's topic is faith in Islam and what that entails. The five Pillars of Islam, the ones we addressed in the previous post are built on the articles of faith. Which can simply be broken down into the following: 1. God: There is only one God with no associate or partner. All that happened the past, is happening now and is going to happen in the future is by the will of God. It is declaring that God is the Creator of everything and the sustainer of everything, it is He who gives life and causes death, and that He is unique in His Names and Attributes.
2. The Angels: Angels are created from light and execute the commands of God without question. God describes them: "Who disobey not, (from executing) the commands they receive from Allah, but do that which they are commanded." (66:6) Only Allah knows how many they are. Among them are:
Gabriel: In charge with delivering Divine revelations to the Prophets and Messengers.
Michael: In charge with the rain
The angel of death who is charged with collecting human souls
The bearers of the throne of Allah SWT
The guards of paradise and Hell, and
The two Angels who record people's deeds.
There are many more who are charged with various duties but only Allah knows how many.
3. The books of God: These include the Torah whih was revealed to Moses, the Palsm of David, the Gospel, revealed to Jesus and the last book the Qur'an which was revealed to Muhammad PBUH. THe Qur'an is the word of God, sent down to mankind for guidance against distortion, adulteration, addition or harm. Allah says:
"Verily, We, it is We who have sent down Dhikr(i.e. the Qur'an), and surely We will guard it (from corruption)." (15:9)
More than 1400 years have elapsed and not a single word of this Qur'an has been changed.
4. The Prophets of God: There were thousands of Prophets who preached God's message. Prophet Muhammad PBUH was the last Prophet for all humanity and completed the message of God. It is incumbent upon all Muslims to believe in all the Prophets and Messengers. He who denies one of them denies all. The Messengers were all sent with one mission:
Allah says: "And verily, We have sent among every Ummah (community, nation) a Messenger (proclaiming): 'Worship Allah (Alone), and avoid (or keep away from) Taghut." (16:36)
5. Day of Judgement: On this day all mankind will be raised back to life and judged by God. Those whose good deeds outweigh their bad deeds will be allowed to enter paradise and those whose bad deeds outweigh their good will be condemned to hell except whom has mercy on. Life after death: there is eternal life in paradise where one will be rewarded for living a righteous life on earth, or the fire of Hell where one will be punished for the evil that one committed.
6. Divine Decree: God's predestination of all things and events and his decree. Nothing in the universe can occur without the knowledge of God. Whatever he desires, it occurs and whatever He does not desire, doesn't occur. There is no power or any movement except by God. Islam is believing and fully accepting that there is a higher power who is responsible for creating this unimaginable world. We all know that no human is capable of such wonders, they've tried and failed miserably!
Islam is logically coming to a conclusion that a higher power exists without having to see it. Allah has shown us countless signs that He is there. All you need to do is look in the mirror. As humans we are very defiant when it comes to the unseen in religion but when it's our everyday things we don't even think to argue about it. How many of you can see the wind? Yet we all know it blows. My point is we are all ready to believe worldly things. But if u sit and really contemplate about this world, who created all of it? When you come to the answer I hope you do, ask yourself don't you think that Allah deserves all the thanks and appreciation for just creating us not mentioning all the blessings and luxury this world has to offer. We should all have faith in our Lord for He created everything. So He definitely knows what is decreed for all of us and we should be comforted with that alone that our destiny is in the hands of our Maker and not a human being or a statue that we created with our own hands.
On the authority of Omar, who said : One day while we were sitting with the messenger of Allah there appeared before us a man whose clothes were exceedingly white and whose hair was exceedingly black; no signs of journeying were to be seen on him and none of us knew him. He walked up and sat down by the prophet. Resting his knees against his and placing the palms of his hands on his thighs, he said:"O Muhammed, tell me about Islam". The messenger of Allah said: "Islam is to testify that there is no god but Allah and Muhammed is the messenger of Allah, to perform the prayers, to pay the zakat, to fast in Ramadhan, and to make the pilgrimage to the House if you are able to do so." He said:"You have spoken rightly", and we were amazed at him asking him and saying that he had spoken rightly. He said: "Then tell me about eman."He said:"It is to believe in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, and the Last Day, and to believe in divine destiny, both the good and the evil thereof." He said:"You have spoken rightly". He said: " Then tell me about ehsan." He said: "It is to worship Allah as though you are seeing Him, and while you see Him not yet truly He sees you". He said: "Then tell me about the Hour". He said: "The one questioned about it knows no better than the questioner." He said: "Then tell me about its signs." He said: "That the slave-girl will give birth to her mistress and that you will see the barefooted, naked, destitute herdsman competing in constructing lofty buildings." Then he took himself off and I stayed for a time. Then he said: "O Omar, do you know who the questioner was?" I said: "Allah and His messenger know best". He said: "He was Jebreel (Gabriel), who came to you to teach you your religion." Narrated by Muslim.
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
Friday, 11 May 2012
Five Pillars of Islam
Islam has five basic duties, often called pillars of Islam. Performed regularly, correctly and sincerely they transform a Muslim's life, bringing it into line with the wishes of the creator. Faithful practice of these duties should inspire a Muslim to work towards the establishment of justice, equality, and righteousness (Ma'ruf) in society, and the eradication of injustice, falsehood and evil (Munkar).
On the authority of Ibn Omar, the son of Omar bin Al-Khattab, may Allah be pleased with both, who said : I heard the messenger of Allah say : "Islam has been built on five [pillars]: testifying that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammed is the messenger of Allah, performing the prayers, paying the zakat, making the pilgrimage to the House, and fasting in Ramadan." Related by Bukhari and Muslim.
1. Shahadah is the conscious and voluntary declaration of the faith by saying La ilaha illallahu Muhammadur rasullah. "There is no God except Allah, and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah. This declaration contains the two basic concepts of Tawhid and Risalah. It is the basis of all actions in Islam; the other four basic duties follow this affirmation.
2. Salah (compulsory prayer)is offered five times a day, either in congregation or individually it is a practical demonstration of faith, and keeps a believer in constant touch with Creator. The benefits of Salah are far-reaching, long lasting and immeasurable. Salah prepared a Muslim to work towards the establishment of true order in society, and the removal of falsehood, evil and indecency. It develops self-discipline, steadfastness and obedience to the Truth. Which lends itself to patience, honesty and truthfulness in the affairs of life.
The five daily prayers:
Fajr: Between dawn and sunrise
Zuhur: Between midday and mid afternoon
'Asr: Between mid afternoon and sunset
Maghrib: Just after sunset
Isha: Between nightfall and dawn.
Salah provides a wonderful opportunity for a Muslim to improve his/her life. It is a system of spiritual, moral and physical training that makes you truly obedient to his Creator.
3. Zakah (welfare contributions) is a compulsory payment from a Muslim's annual savings. It literally means purification, and is an annual payment of 2.5% of the value of cash, jewellery and precious metals; a separate rate applies to animals, crops and mineral wealth. Zakah is neither a charity nor a tax: charity is optional, whilst taxes can be used for any of society's needs. Zakah, however, can only be spent on helping the poor and needy, the disabled, the oppressed, debtors and other welfare purposes as defined in the Qur'an and Sunnah. Zakah is an act of worship. It is one of the fundamental principles of an Islamic economy, which ensures an equitable society where everybody has a right to contribute and share. Zakah should be paid with the conscious belief that our wealth and our property belong to Allah, and we merely act as trustees.
4. Sawm is the annual obligatory fast during the month of Ramadhan, the ninth month in the Islamic calendar. From dawn to sunset every day a Muslim refrains from eating, drinking, smoking, and from sex with his/her marital partner, seeking only the pleasure of Allah (SWT). Sawm develops a believer's moral and spiritual standards, and keeps him away from selfishness, greed, extravagance and other vices. Sawm is an annual training programme which increases a Muslim's determination to fulfil his obligations to the Creator and Sustainer.
5. Hajj (pilgrimage to the house of Allah) is an annual event, obligatory at least once in a lifetime for Muslims who have the means to perform it. It is a journey to the house of Allah (ka'bah) in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, in the month of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar. Hajj symbolises the unity of mankind; Muslims for every race and nationality assemble in equality and humility to worship their Lord. The pilgrim, in the ritual clothing of Ihram, has the unique feeling of being in presence of his Creator, to whom he belongs and to whom he must return after death.
On the authority of Ibn Omar, the son of Omar bin Al-Khattab, may Allah be pleased with both, who said : I heard the messenger of Allah say : "Islam has been built on five [pillars]: testifying that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammed is the messenger of Allah, performing the prayers, paying the zakat, making the pilgrimage to the House, and fasting in Ramadan." Related by Bukhari and Muslim.
1. Shahadah is the conscious and voluntary declaration of the faith by saying La ilaha illallahu Muhammadur rasullah. "There is no God except Allah, and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah. This declaration contains the two basic concepts of Tawhid and Risalah. It is the basis of all actions in Islam; the other four basic duties follow this affirmation.
2. Salah (compulsory prayer)is offered five times a day, either in congregation or individually it is a practical demonstration of faith, and keeps a believer in constant touch with Creator. The benefits of Salah are far-reaching, long lasting and immeasurable. Salah prepared a Muslim to work towards the establishment of true order in society, and the removal of falsehood, evil and indecency. It develops self-discipline, steadfastness and obedience to the Truth. Which lends itself to patience, honesty and truthfulness in the affairs of life.
The five daily prayers:
Fajr: Between dawn and sunrise
Zuhur: Between midday and mid afternoon
'Asr: Between mid afternoon and sunset
Maghrib: Just after sunset
Isha: Between nightfall and dawn.
Salah provides a wonderful opportunity for a Muslim to improve his/her life. It is a system of spiritual, moral and physical training that makes you truly obedient to his Creator.
3. Zakah (welfare contributions) is a compulsory payment from a Muslim's annual savings. It literally means purification, and is an annual payment of 2.5% of the value of cash, jewellery and precious metals; a separate rate applies to animals, crops and mineral wealth. Zakah is neither a charity nor a tax: charity is optional, whilst taxes can be used for any of society's needs. Zakah, however, can only be spent on helping the poor and needy, the disabled, the oppressed, debtors and other welfare purposes as defined in the Qur'an and Sunnah. Zakah is an act of worship. It is one of the fundamental principles of an Islamic economy, which ensures an equitable society where everybody has a right to contribute and share. Zakah should be paid with the conscious belief that our wealth and our property belong to Allah, and we merely act as trustees.
4. Sawm is the annual obligatory fast during the month of Ramadhan, the ninth month in the Islamic calendar. From dawn to sunset every day a Muslim refrains from eating, drinking, smoking, and from sex with his/her marital partner, seeking only the pleasure of Allah (SWT). Sawm develops a believer's moral and spiritual standards, and keeps him away from selfishness, greed, extravagance and other vices. Sawm is an annual training programme which increases a Muslim's determination to fulfil his obligations to the Creator and Sustainer.
5. Hajj (pilgrimage to the house of Allah) is an annual event, obligatory at least once in a lifetime for Muslims who have the means to perform it. It is a journey to the house of Allah (ka'bah) in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, in the month of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar. Hajj symbolises the unity of mankind; Muslims for every race and nationality assemble in equality and humility to worship their Lord. The pilgrim, in the ritual clothing of Ihram, has the unique feeling of being in presence of his Creator, to whom he belongs and to whom he must return after death.
The Basic Islamic Beliefs
There are three fundamental Islamic beliefs. These include:
Tawhid- The oneness of Allah
Risalah- Prophethood
Akhirah- life after death
Tawhid is the most important islamic belief. Everything in existence originates from the one and only creator, who is the Sustainer and sole source of Guidance. This belief should govern all aspects of human life. Recognition of this fundamental truth brings a unified view of life which rejects any division into religious and secular. Allah is the sole source of power and authority, and is to be worshipped and obeyed. He has no partner; Tawhid is pure monotheism. Allah is not born, and he has no son or daughter. Human beings are his subjects. He is the One; He is the Eternal; He is the First and the Last; and there is none like him.
In the name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful.
Say,"He is God, (who is) One. God the Eternal Refuge. He neither begets nor is born. Nor is there to him any equivalent." (Surat al-Ikhlas, 112: 1-4)
Abdullah bin Masud has reported that the Quraysh said to the Prophet PBUH: "Tell us of the ancestry of your Lord." thereupon this Surah was sent down.
Tawhid brings total change to a Muslim's life. It makes him bow down only to Allah, Who sees all of his actions. He must work to establish the laws of Allah in all areas of his life, in order to gain his pleasure.
Risalah means prophethood or messengership. Allah has not left man without Guidance for the conduct of his life. Since the creation of the first man, Allah has revealed His guidance to mankind through His prophets. Prophets who received books from Allah are called messengers. All the prophets and messengers came with the same message; they urged the people of their time to obey and worship Allah alone and none other. Whenever the teachings of a prophet where distorted by people, Allah sent another prophet to bring them back to the straight path (Siratul Mustaqim). The chain of Risalah began with Adam, included Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Issac, Lot, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, David, Jesus, and ended with Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon them all). Muhammad PBUH is the final messenger of Allah to mankind.
The revealed books from Allah are:
1. The Torah, to Moses (Then We gave Moses the Scripture, making complete [Our favour] upon the one who did good [i.e. Moses] and as a detailed explanation of all things and as guidance and mercy that perhaps in the meeting with their Lord they would believe. 6:154);
2. The Psalms, to David (Indeed, We have revealed to you, as We revealed to Noah and prophets after him. And we revealed to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, the Descendants, Jesus, Job, Jonah, Aaron, and Solomon, and to David we gave the book [of Palsms]. 4:163);
3. The Gospel, to Jesus (And we sent, following in their footsteps, Jesus, the son of Mary confirming that which came before him in the Torah; and We gave him the Gospel, in which was guidance and light and confirming that which preceded it of the Torah as guidance and instruction for the righteous. 5:46);
4. The Qur'an which was revealed to Muhammad PBUH as the final book (And we have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], the Book [i.e. the Qur'an] in truth, confirming that which preceded it of the Scripture and as a criterion over it. 5:48).
Akhirah means life after death. Belief in Akhirah has a profound impact on the life of a believer. We are all accountable to Allah on the Day of Judgement, when we will be judged according to how we lived our lives on this earth. A person who obeys and worships Allah will be rewarded with a place of happiness in Paradise; the person who does not will be sent to Hell, a place of punishment and suffering. Allah knows our every thought and innermost intention; Angels are recording all our actions. If we always keep in mind that we will be judged by our actions, we will try to make sure that we act according to the Will of Allah. Many of today's problems would disappear if we had this awareness and acted accordingly.
Tawhid- The oneness of Allah
Risalah- Prophethood
Akhirah- life after death
Tawhid is the most important islamic belief. Everything in existence originates from the one and only creator, who is the Sustainer and sole source of Guidance. This belief should govern all aspects of human life. Recognition of this fundamental truth brings a unified view of life which rejects any division into religious and secular. Allah is the sole source of power and authority, and is to be worshipped and obeyed. He has no partner; Tawhid is pure monotheism. Allah is not born, and he has no son or daughter. Human beings are his subjects. He is the One; He is the Eternal; He is the First and the Last; and there is none like him.
In the name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful.
Say,"He is God, (who is) One. God the Eternal Refuge. He neither begets nor is born. Nor is there to him any equivalent." (Surat al-Ikhlas, 112: 1-4)
Abdullah bin Masud has reported that the Quraysh said to the Prophet PBUH: "Tell us of the ancestry of your Lord." thereupon this Surah was sent down.
Tawhid brings total change to a Muslim's life. It makes him bow down only to Allah, Who sees all of his actions. He must work to establish the laws of Allah in all areas of his life, in order to gain his pleasure.
Risalah means prophethood or messengership. Allah has not left man without Guidance for the conduct of his life. Since the creation of the first man, Allah has revealed His guidance to mankind through His prophets. Prophets who received books from Allah are called messengers. All the prophets and messengers came with the same message; they urged the people of their time to obey and worship Allah alone and none other. Whenever the teachings of a prophet where distorted by people, Allah sent another prophet to bring them back to the straight path (Siratul Mustaqim). The chain of Risalah began with Adam, included Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Issac, Lot, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, David, Jesus, and ended with Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon them all). Muhammad PBUH is the final messenger of Allah to mankind.
The revealed books from Allah are:
1. The Torah, to Moses (Then We gave Moses the Scripture, making complete [Our favour] upon the one who did good [i.e. Moses] and as a detailed explanation of all things and as guidance and mercy that perhaps in the meeting with their Lord they would believe. 6:154);
2. The Psalms, to David (Indeed, We have revealed to you, as We revealed to Noah and prophets after him. And we revealed to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, the Descendants, Jesus, Job, Jonah, Aaron, and Solomon, and to David we gave the book [of Palsms]. 4:163);
3. The Gospel, to Jesus (And we sent, following in their footsteps, Jesus, the son of Mary confirming that which came before him in the Torah; and We gave him the Gospel, in which was guidance and light and confirming that which preceded it of the Torah as guidance and instruction for the righteous. 5:46);
4. The Qur'an which was revealed to Muhammad PBUH as the final book (And we have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], the Book [i.e. the Qur'an] in truth, confirming that which preceded it of the Scripture and as a criterion over it. 5:48).
Akhirah means life after death. Belief in Akhirah has a profound impact on the life of a believer. We are all accountable to Allah on the Day of Judgement, when we will be judged according to how we lived our lives on this earth. A person who obeys and worships Allah will be rewarded with a place of happiness in Paradise; the person who does not will be sent to Hell, a place of punishment and suffering. Allah knows our every thought and innermost intention; Angels are recording all our actions. If we always keep in mind that we will be judged by our actions, we will try to make sure that we act according to the Will of Allah. Many of today's problems would disappear if we had this awareness and acted accordingly.
Thursday, 10 May 2012
What is Islam?
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
"Verily, all praise is due to Allah. It is due to Him, and to Him alone. We praise Him and we seek His help and forgiveness. We seek refuge in Allah from the evil of our own selves and from the evil of our actions. And whomsoever Allah guides, there is none to misguide him, and whomsoever Allah leads astray none can guide him aright. I testify that there is no god worthy of worship except Allah, alone with no partner, and I testify that Muhammad (SAWS) is His slave and messenger. Indeed the best speech is the book of Allah, and the best guidance is that of Muhammad (SAWS). The worst affairs are the newly invented matters, for every newly invented matter is an innovation, and every innovation is misguidance, and every misguidance is in the Fire."
Islam in its simplest form is submission to Allah in every sense of the word. It is a complete way of life. It tells man about the purpose of his creation and existence, his ultimate destiny and his place among other creatures. More importantly, it provides us with guidance (hidayah) to lead a balanced and purposeful life which will enable him to avoid the hellfire (Jahannam) and be rewarded with a place in paradise (Jannah) in the life after death. The Arabic word 'Islam' means voluntary surrender to the will of Allah and obedience to his commands. Allah, also an Arabic word, is the unique name of God. Allah is the universal creator of all mankind. The Islamic way of life is based on total obedience to Allah. This is the way to obtain peace both in this world and the hereafter; hence, Islam also means peace.
"Verily, all praise is due to Allah. It is due to Him, and to Him alone. We praise Him and we seek His help and forgiveness. We seek refuge in Allah from the evil of our own selves and from the evil of our actions. And whomsoever Allah guides, there is none to misguide him, and whomsoever Allah leads astray none can guide him aright. I testify that there is no god worthy of worship except Allah, alone with no partner, and I testify that Muhammad (SAWS) is His slave and messenger. Indeed the best speech is the book of Allah, and the best guidance is that of Muhammad (SAWS). The worst affairs are the newly invented matters, for every newly invented matter is an innovation, and every innovation is misguidance, and every misguidance is in the Fire."
Islam in its simplest form is submission to Allah in every sense of the word. It is a complete way of life. It tells man about the purpose of his creation and existence, his ultimate destiny and his place among other creatures. More importantly, it provides us with guidance (hidayah) to lead a balanced and purposeful life which will enable him to avoid the hellfire (Jahannam) and be rewarded with a place in paradise (Jannah) in the life after death. The Arabic word 'Islam' means voluntary surrender to the will of Allah and obedience to his commands. Allah, also an Arabic word, is the unique name of God. Allah is the universal creator of all mankind. The Islamic way of life is based on total obedience to Allah. This is the way to obtain peace both in this world and the hereafter; hence, Islam also means peace.
Tuesday, 8 May 2012
The journey to discovery.
I will start my blogs with the greetings of all the Prophets; Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh. Which means May the peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be with you. Then it shall be followed by a prayer/supplication to remind myself of my intentions and to keep them pure for the sake of Allah (SWT).
"Verily, all praise is due to Allah. It is due to Him, and to Him alone. We praise Him and we seek His help and forgiveness. We seek refuge in Allah from the evil of our own selves and from the evil of our actions. And whomsoever Allah guides, there is none to misguide him, and whomsoever Allah leads astray none can guide him aright. I testify that there is no god worthy of worship except Allah, alone with no partner, and I testify that Muhammad (SAWS) is His slave and messenger. Indeed the best speech is the book of Allah, and the best guidance is that of Muhammad (SAWS). The worst affairs are the newly invented matters, for every newly invented matter is an innovation, and every innovation is misguidance, and every misguidance is in the Fire."
The main reason for this search of truth is to encourage myself to seek knowledge in my religion. It is to push myself to ask questions about the things I am ignorant about and to encourage myself to act upon the lessons that I shall learn from this exploration. I was privileged to be born Muslim but that did not necessarily entail being a model muslim lady. Alhamdhulillah I can honestly say that I am trying hard to better myself; To obey my Lords commands, fear him and worship him. I realise that it is not to my best ability because I lack the complete knowledge of my beautiful religion and it is fair to say you cant really do something to the best of your ability without actually fully understanding it. With that said, I believe you will now understand the reason for this blog.
It is essential to start my journey right at the beginning and systematically look at relevant topics that will help us to live a better life and understand what Islam is really about. The topics will include:
1. What is Islam?
2. What is the purpose of life?
3. Islam as a way of life. This will be a mini-series of various topics including:
a. Women in Islam
b. Family in Islam
c. Men in Islam
d. Marriage in Islam
e. The characters of a Muslim in the society
f. Socialisation in Islam
g. Trading in Islam
4. Virtues of Ramadhan
5. Comparisons of the sects in Islam
6. Jihad.
There are going to be many more topics inshallah. However, I felt the need to research and discuss these topics first as our pillars of understanding what Islam really is. I hope I will successfully accomplish this with the help of Allah I believe anything is possible. Inshallah I will try and put Qur'an recitations and lectures up for you all from reputable scholars about the various topics that I will write about.
I wanted to address you my readers and just make things clear for you. I am not doing this for anybody but Allah. I pray that it benefits each one of you but the sole purpose is to improve my religion. I am not going to discriminate against anybody nor will I be judgemental. So for all the non-muslims, this platform is open to you especially. I encourage all of you to read with an open mind and ask productive questions and engage in conversations about topics you do not understand or you would like to see me write about. I understand that some of you might not want to hear anything I have to say and that too is fine. I respect that we cannot all be the same in life and Alhamdhulillah Allah (SWT) gave us the solution to that too.
"Say, "O disbelievers,I do not worship what you worship. Nor are you worshippers of what I worship. Nor will I be a worshipper of what you worship. Nor will you be worshippers of what I worship. For you is your religion, and for me is my religion." (Surat Al-Kafirun,109-1:6)
For my muslim brothers and sisters who know about the topics I will address please inshallah contribute, and add on or correct me if I say anything wrong and please be patient as you will most certainly know a lot about the topics I shall address. This blog can be a reminder to you to practise more what you already know and convey the message to your friends who are not aware of the beauty of Islam.
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
"Verily, all praise is due to Allah. It is due to Him, and to Him alone. We praise Him and we seek His help and forgiveness. We seek refuge in Allah from the evil of our own selves and from the evil of our actions. And whomsoever Allah guides, there is none to misguide him, and whomsoever Allah leads astray none can guide him aright. I testify that there is no god worthy of worship except Allah, alone with no partner, and I testify that Muhammad (SAWS) is His slave and messenger. Indeed the best speech is the book of Allah, and the best guidance is that of Muhammad (SAWS). The worst affairs are the newly invented matters, for every newly invented matter is an innovation, and every innovation is misguidance, and every misguidance is in the Fire."
The main reason for this search of truth is to encourage myself to seek knowledge in my religion. It is to push myself to ask questions about the things I am ignorant about and to encourage myself to act upon the lessons that I shall learn from this exploration. I was privileged to be born Muslim but that did not necessarily entail being a model muslim lady. Alhamdhulillah I can honestly say that I am trying hard to better myself; To obey my Lords commands, fear him and worship him. I realise that it is not to my best ability because I lack the complete knowledge of my beautiful religion and it is fair to say you cant really do something to the best of your ability without actually fully understanding it. With that said, I believe you will now understand the reason for this blog.
It is essential to start my journey right at the beginning and systematically look at relevant topics that will help us to live a better life and understand what Islam is really about. The topics will include:
1. What is Islam?
2. What is the purpose of life?
3. Islam as a way of life. This will be a mini-series of various topics including:
a. Women in Islam
b. Family in Islam
c. Men in Islam
d. Marriage in Islam
e. The characters of a Muslim in the society
f. Socialisation in Islam
g. Trading in Islam
4. Virtues of Ramadhan
5. Comparisons of the sects in Islam
6. Jihad.
There are going to be many more topics inshallah. However, I felt the need to research and discuss these topics first as our pillars of understanding what Islam really is. I hope I will successfully accomplish this with the help of Allah I believe anything is possible. Inshallah I will try and put Qur'an recitations and lectures up for you all from reputable scholars about the various topics that I will write about.
I wanted to address you my readers and just make things clear for you. I am not doing this for anybody but Allah. I pray that it benefits each one of you but the sole purpose is to improve my religion. I am not going to discriminate against anybody nor will I be judgemental. So for all the non-muslims, this platform is open to you especially. I encourage all of you to read with an open mind and ask productive questions and engage in conversations about topics you do not understand or you would like to see me write about. I understand that some of you might not want to hear anything I have to say and that too is fine. I respect that we cannot all be the same in life and Alhamdhulillah Allah (SWT) gave us the solution to that too.
"Say, "O disbelievers,I do not worship what you worship. Nor are you worshippers of what I worship. Nor will I be a worshipper of what you worship. Nor will you be worshippers of what I worship. For you is your religion, and for me is my religion." (Surat Al-Kafirun,109-1:6)
For my muslim brothers and sisters who know about the topics I will address please inshallah contribute, and add on or correct me if I say anything wrong and please be patient as you will most certainly know a lot about the topics I shall address. This blog can be a reminder to you to practise more what you already know and convey the message to your friends who are not aware of the beauty of Islam.
Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
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