assalamu alaykum wa rahmatullah,
Eid Mubarak to all!
Also remember to fast on The Day of ‘Arafah.
Prophet, upon whom be peace, said: “Fasting on the day of ‘Arafah absolves the sins for two years: the previous year and the coming year, and fasting on ‘ashûra, (the tenth day of Muharram) atones for the sins of previous years.”
[Reported by all except al-Bukhârî and Tirmidhî]
JazakAllahkhayran
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Sacrifice & Dhul Hijjah
assalamu alaykum wa rahmatullah,
If anyone is interested in offering Udhiya (sacrifice) online. It is possible to do so from the ICNA relief website. Remember that it is very important especially if you can afford it inshaAllah.
http://www.icnareliefcanada.ca/
You can give it for as little as $45 in Kenya and India!
Also remember to Fast on the Ninth of Ara'fa and do as many good deeds as possible during these 10 days.
Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him and his father) also reported that the Prophet (pbuh) said:
“There is no deed more precious in the sight of Allaah, nor greater in reward, than a good deed done during the ten days of Sacrifice.” He was asked, “Not even jihaad for the sake of Allaah?” He said, “Not even jihaad for the sake of Allaah, except in the case of a man who went out to fight giving himself and his wealth up for the cause, and came back with nothing.”
(Reported by al-Daarimi, 1/357; its isnaad is hasan as stated in al-Irwaa’, 3/398)
‘Abdullaah ibn ‘Umar (may Allaah be pleased with him and his father) reported that the Prophet (pbuh) said: “There are no days greater in the sight of Allaah and in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Him than these ten days, so during this time recite a great deal of Tahleel (“La ilaaha ill-Allaah”), Takbeer and Tahmeed.”
(Reported by Ahmad, 7/224; Ahmad Shaakir stated that it is saheeh)
Check out this short video by Yasir Qadhi about the 10 days
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pWixVC04yyU
JazakAllahukhayr
If anyone is interested in offering Udhiya (sacrifice) online. It is possible to do so from the ICNA relief website. Remember that it is very important especially if you can afford it inshaAllah.
http://www.icnareliefcanada.ca/
You can give it for as little as $45 in Kenya and India!
Also remember to Fast on the Ninth of Ara'fa and do as many good deeds as possible during these 10 days.
Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him and his father) also reported that the Prophet (pbuh) said:
“There is no deed more precious in the sight of Allaah, nor greater in reward, than a good deed done during the ten days of Sacrifice.” He was asked, “Not even jihaad for the sake of Allaah?” He said, “Not even jihaad for the sake of Allaah, except in the case of a man who went out to fight giving himself and his wealth up for the cause, and came back with nothing.”
(Reported by al-Daarimi, 1/357; its isnaad is hasan as stated in al-Irwaa’, 3/398)
‘Abdullaah ibn ‘Umar (may Allaah be pleased with him and his father) reported that the Prophet (pbuh) said: “There are no days greater in the sight of Allaah and in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Him than these ten days, so during this time recite a great deal of Tahleel (“La ilaaha ill-Allaah”), Takbeer and Tahmeed.”
(Reported by Ahmad, 7/224; Ahmad Shaakir stated that it is saheeh)
Check out this short video by Yasir Qadhi about the 10 days
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pWixVC04yyU
JazakAllahukhayr
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Benefits of Building Masjids
Assalamu Alaykum wa Rahmatullah wa barkatuh,
In Ramadan time we can clearly see the value of building Masjids and the impact it has within our society. InshaAllah this is just a short article I wish to write in order to motivate each and everyone to assist with Masjids in whatever way possible, whether it be through your wealth, actions or du’a.
Any good in this is from Allah and any mistakes or contradictions are from Shaytan and my own weakness in knowledge.
Benefits of Building Masjids
1. Remembrance of Allah: Masjid is where Allah (subhana wa tala) is glorified, praised and remembered. If this would have been the only benefit, it would have been sufficient for us to strive to build more and more Masjids.
“In houses (mosques), which Allâh has ordered to be raised (to be cleaned, and to be honoured), in them His Name is glorified in the mornings and in the afternoons or the evenings, Men whom neither trade nor sale diverts them from the Remembrance of Allâh (with heart and tongue), nor from performing AsSalât (Iqâmat-as-Salât), nor from giving the Zakât. They fear a Day when hearts and eyes will be overturned (from the horror of the torment of the Day of Resurrection). That Allâh may reward them according to the best of their deeds, and add even more for them out of His Grace. And Allâh provides without measure to whom He wills.” (An Nur 36-38)
2. Ongoing Charity - Sadaqa Tu Jariya: Donating to a Masjid, is an ongoing charity which continues even after a person dies and his/her book of deeds are closed. Even if you spend one Dollar towards a Masjid, InshaAllah that will count as an ongoing charity.
Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “When a man dies, his good deeds come to an end except three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge and a righteous son who will pray for him.” Narrated by Muslim, 3084.
The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The good deeds that will reach a believer after his death are: knowledge which he learned and then spread; a righteous son whom he leaves behind; a copy of the Qur’aan that he leaves as a legacy; a mosque that he built; a house that he built for wayfarers; a canal that he dug; or charity that he gave during his lifetime when he was in good health. These deeds will reach him after his death.” Classed as hasan by al-Albaani in Saheeh Ibn Maajah.
3. House in Jannah: Is there anything else we need? Where are the investors?
The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "Whosoever builds for Allah a masjid, Allah will reward him similar to it in paradise.” (Bukhari, Muslim)
In another narration, "Whosoever shares in building a masjid for Allah, even if it is as small as a bird’s nest, Allah will build for him a house in Paradise." (Ahmad)
4. Da’wah & Naseeha: Having the mere presence of a Masjid is a way of inviting to Islam. Allah (subhana wa tala) guides many Non-Muslims to Islam by them wandering into the Masjid and asking about Islam. How many of the youth have left corruption and have come to the Masjid? Instead of consuming drugs and alcohol they are volunteering for a Masjid. Instead of spending time with girlfriends and boyfriends they are memorizing Al Qur’an. Instead of vandalizing property they are reading about the Seerah of the Prophet (saws). The benefits of a Masjid to a neighborhood are tremendous.
5. Counseling: Instead of spending thousands in organizations counseling just to earn a profit, an Imam is available for assistance to a community. Best of all he is not using some contemporary book where the author himself is having problems, he uses a book which has no contradictions and which is A Clear Guidance to all of mankind.
6. Knowledge: Masjid is a source of knowledge. Seeking knowledge is obligatory upon the believers. Also, look at how many children are benefiting from going to the Masjid and seeking knowledge. Who knows which child might be the next scholar of the Ummah and imagine if you had a hand in helping that child, by helping in establishing the Masjid.
“It is only those who have knowledge among His slaves that fear Allah.” [Fatir 35:28]
“Say: ‘Are those who know equal to those who do not know?’ It is only men of understanding who will remember.” [Az-Zumar 39:9]
“Whenever Allah desires good for a person He grants him the understanding of the religion.” [Bukhari]
"Whoever goes to the mosque not desiring except to learn or teach what is good has the reward of a pilgrim who completed his Hajj." [at-Tabarani, classed as Saheeh by Al-Albani]
7. Unite the Community and Encourage brotherhood: Establishes large gatherings of Muslims. Just look how everyone breaks their fast together in Ramadan at the Masjid, does this not encourage brotherhood?
These are just “some” of the benefits of building a Masjid. There are several Masjids that need your assistance RIGHT NOW!! Below are some links for Masjids within Canada. What better time to give than in the month of Ramadan. I ask Allah to accept our deeds and forgive us for our shortcomings. Please forgive me for any mistakes in this email and remember me in your dua’.
JazakAllahukhayran,
Fares Elahi
http://www.oshawamosque.com/
http://www.ummahmasjid.ca/en/donatecontact
http://www.daruliman.org/
http://www.pickeringislamiccentre.com/
http://www.salaheddin.org/
http://www.abuhuraira.org/
http://www.danforthcommunitycenter.org/
In Ramadan time we can clearly see the value of building Masjids and the impact it has within our society. InshaAllah this is just a short article I wish to write in order to motivate each and everyone to assist with Masjids in whatever way possible, whether it be through your wealth, actions or du’a.
Any good in this is from Allah and any mistakes or contradictions are from Shaytan and my own weakness in knowledge.
Benefits of Building Masjids
1. Remembrance of Allah: Masjid is where Allah (subhana wa tala) is glorified, praised and remembered. If this would have been the only benefit, it would have been sufficient for us to strive to build more and more Masjids.
“In houses (mosques), which Allâh has ordered to be raised (to be cleaned, and to be honoured), in them His Name is glorified in the mornings and in the afternoons or the evenings, Men whom neither trade nor sale diverts them from the Remembrance of Allâh (with heart and tongue), nor from performing AsSalât (Iqâmat-as-Salât), nor from giving the Zakât. They fear a Day when hearts and eyes will be overturned (from the horror of the torment of the Day of Resurrection). That Allâh may reward them according to the best of their deeds, and add even more for them out of His Grace. And Allâh provides without measure to whom He wills.” (An Nur 36-38)
2. Ongoing Charity - Sadaqa Tu Jariya: Donating to a Masjid, is an ongoing charity which continues even after a person dies and his/her book of deeds are closed. Even if you spend one Dollar towards a Masjid, InshaAllah that will count as an ongoing charity.
Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “When a man dies, his good deeds come to an end except three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge and a righteous son who will pray for him.” Narrated by Muslim, 3084.
The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The good deeds that will reach a believer after his death are: knowledge which he learned and then spread; a righteous son whom he leaves behind; a copy of the Qur’aan that he leaves as a legacy; a mosque that he built; a house that he built for wayfarers; a canal that he dug; or charity that he gave during his lifetime when he was in good health. These deeds will reach him after his death.” Classed as hasan by al-Albaani in Saheeh Ibn Maajah.
3. House in Jannah: Is there anything else we need? Where are the investors?
The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "Whosoever builds for Allah a masjid, Allah will reward him similar to it in paradise.” (Bukhari, Muslim)
In another narration, "Whosoever shares in building a masjid for Allah, even if it is as small as a bird’s nest, Allah will build for him a house in Paradise." (Ahmad)
4. Da’wah & Naseeha: Having the mere presence of a Masjid is a way of inviting to Islam. Allah (subhana wa tala) guides many Non-Muslims to Islam by them wandering into the Masjid and asking about Islam. How many of the youth have left corruption and have come to the Masjid? Instead of consuming drugs and alcohol they are volunteering for a Masjid. Instead of spending time with girlfriends and boyfriends they are memorizing Al Qur’an. Instead of vandalizing property they are reading about the Seerah of the Prophet (saws). The benefits of a Masjid to a neighborhood are tremendous.
5. Counseling: Instead of spending thousands in organizations counseling just to earn a profit, an Imam is available for assistance to a community. Best of all he is not using some contemporary book where the author himself is having problems, he uses a book which has no contradictions and which is A Clear Guidance to all of mankind.
6. Knowledge: Masjid is a source of knowledge. Seeking knowledge is obligatory upon the believers. Also, look at how many children are benefiting from going to the Masjid and seeking knowledge. Who knows which child might be the next scholar of the Ummah and imagine if you had a hand in helping that child, by helping in establishing the Masjid.
“It is only those who have knowledge among His slaves that fear Allah.” [Fatir 35:28]
“Say: ‘Are those who know equal to those who do not know?’ It is only men of understanding who will remember.” [Az-Zumar 39:9]
“Whenever Allah desires good for a person He grants him the understanding of the religion.” [Bukhari]
"Whoever goes to the mosque not desiring except to learn or teach what is good has the reward of a pilgrim who completed his Hajj." [at-Tabarani, classed as Saheeh by Al-Albani]
7. Unite the Community and Encourage brotherhood: Establishes large gatherings of Muslims. Just look how everyone breaks their fast together in Ramadan at the Masjid, does this not encourage brotherhood?
These are just “some” of the benefits of building a Masjid. There are several Masjids that need your assistance RIGHT NOW!! Below are some links for Masjids within Canada. What better time to give than in the month of Ramadan. I ask Allah to accept our deeds and forgive us for our shortcomings. Please forgive me for any mistakes in this email and remember me in your dua’.
JazakAllahukhayran,
Fares Elahi
http://www.oshawamosque.com/
http://www.ummahmasjid.ca/en/donatecontact
http://www.daruliman.org/
http://www.pickeringislamiccentre.com/
http://www.salaheddin.org/
http://www.abuhuraira.org/
http://www.danforthcommunitycenter.org/
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Ramadan Mubarak to all of you and your families!
Assalamu Alaykum wa Rahmatullahi wa barkatu,
Ramadan Mubarak to all of you and your families!
Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, ‘There has come to you Ramadaan, a blessed month. Allaah has made it obligatory on you to fast (this month). During it the gates of Paradise are opened and the gates of Hell are locked, and the devils are chained up. In it there is a night that is better than a thousand months, and whoever is deprived of its goodness is deprived indeed.’” (Reported by al-Nisaa'i, 4/129; Saheeh al-Targheeb, 1/490)
I ask Allah to give us all the ability to make the most out of this Ramadan, make this a means of increasing our Eman and get closer to Allah. Ameen. Let's treat this like our last and only Ramadan before death.
Lastly, please forgive me for any of my short comings, this is a month of forgiveness, so we should all forgive one another inshaAllah.
Let us all wake up late at night and ask from Allah (subhana wa tala). Please remember me and the entire ummah in your dua'.
"And your Lord said: "Invoke Me, [i.e. believe in My Oneness (Islâmic Monotheism)] (and ask Me for anything) I will respond to your (invocation)." (Surah Ghafir, 60)
JazakAllahukhayran
Fares Elahi
------------
F.E
Anas (Radhi Allahu Ta'ala Anhu), who said: I heard the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam) say:"Allah the Almighty said: O son of Adam, so long as you call upon Me and ask of Me, I shall forgive you for what you have done, and I shall not mind. O son of Adam, were your sins to reach the clouds of the sky and were you then to ask forgiveness of Me, I would forgive you. O son of Adam, were you to come to Me with sins nearly as great as the earth and were you then to face Me, ascribing no partner to Me, I would bring you forgiveness nearly as great at it."[at-Tirmidhi, Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal]
Monday, August 10, 2009
Iftaar!
Why should you spend your money on iftaar funds at the Masjid?
Why should you invite guests over for iftaar?
The Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said,
"Whoever provides food for breaking of the fast of a fasting person receives the reward of the fasting person, without the reward of the fasting person being reduced in any way."
[at-Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah]
The Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) also said,
“Save yourself from the (Hell) Fire even with half a date (to be given in charity). And if you do not find that, then with a good pleasant word.”
[Al-Bukhari]
Note: This does not remove the obligation of fasting if one is capable of doing so, it is a means of increasing the scale of good deeds of an individual through the mercy of Allah.
Why should you invite guests over for iftaar?
The Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said,
"Whoever provides food for breaking of the fast of a fasting person receives the reward of the fasting person, without the reward of the fasting person being reduced in any way."
[at-Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah]
The Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) also said,
“Save yourself from the (Hell) Fire even with half a date (to be given in charity). And if you do not find that, then with a good pleasant word.”
[Al-Bukhari]
Note: This does not remove the obligation of fasting if one is capable of doing so, it is a means of increasing the scale of good deeds of an individual through the mercy of Allah.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Benefits and Blessings of Seeking Knowledge
Assalamu alaykum wa rahmatullah all,
Here are some of the benefits and blessings of seeking knowledge. This should be enough motivation for us to go and seek knowledge, whether it be from Halaqas in our local Masjid, or through events, conferences or by reading books. Seek as much knowledge as possible till death and put it into practice.
At the same time, while you seek knowledge don't forget your family and friends, help them by teaching them or taking them to the lectures that you attend! This is one of the areas many brothers/sisters neglect, after getting into the Deen they end up going home and expects everyone to change without putting in the time and effort to help them. Also remember that knowledge without good character is pointless, so read up books on manners and ettiquetes and inshaAllah that will help.
inshaAllah the following will be enough motivation for you to seek Ilm or further your studies....
“It is only those who have knowledge among His slaves that fear Allah.” [Fatir 35:28]
“Whenever Allah desires good for a person He grants him the understanding of the religion.” [Bukhari]
“Say: ‘Are those who know equal to those who do not know?’ It is only men of understanding who will remember.” [Az-Zumar 39:9]
“Whosoever pursues a path to seek knowledge therein, Allah will thereby make easy for him a path to Paradise. Verily, the Angels lower their wings for the Seeker of Knowledge out of contentment for what he does. Verily, everything in the heavens and everything in the earth, even the fish in the water, asks forgiveness for the scholar. The superiority of the scholar over the worshipper is like the superiority of the moon over the rest of the stars. Verily, the scholars are the inheritors of the Prophets, and verily, the Prophets did not inherit a Dinar nor a Dirham, rather they only inherited knowledge, so whoever takes a hold of it has taken a hold of a great fortune.” [Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah, Ibn Hibban, Bayhaqee]
"Seek knowledge, because seeking it for the sake of Allah is a worship. And knowing it makes you more God-fearing; and searching for it is jihad, teaching it to those who do not know is charity, reviewing and learning it more is like tasbeeh. Through knowledge Allah will be known and worshipped. With the knowledge Allah will elevate people and make them leaders and imams, who will in turn guide other people." Ibn Taymiyya vol.10, p.39
"Whoever treads on a path in search of Islamic knowledge, Allah will ease the way to Paradise for him. The angels will lower their wings, pleased with this seeker of knowledge, and everyone in the heavens and on earth will ask forgiveness for the knowledgeable person, even the fish in the deepest of waters will ask for his forgiveness” [Abu Dawud, Ibn Majah, Tirmidhi]
“He whom death overtakes while he is engaged in acquiring knowledge with a view to reviving Islam with the help of it, there will be one degree between him and the Prophets in Paradise .” [Al-Tirmidhi]
Prophet (saw) said,"Whoever goes down a path/road searching for knowledge, Allah will make it easy for him the road to Paradise ." [Muslim]
"Whoever goes to the mosque not desiring except to learn or teach what is good has the reward of a pilgrim who completed his Hajj." [at-Tabarani, classed as Saheeh by Al-Albani]
Imaam Adh-Dhahabee (d. 748H) said: "Whoever's heart becomes sick with doubts and false notions, then this condition will not come to an end unless he asks the people of knowledge, so that he learns from the truth that which will repel his sickness. And thus it will not affect him seriously.
Imam Shafi’ (rahimahullah) said: "Whoever seeks the fruits of this life should gain Islamic knowledge, and whoever seeks the hereafter should gain (Islamic) knowledge."
Here are some of the benefits and blessings of seeking knowledge. This should be enough motivation for us to go and seek knowledge, whether it be from Halaqas in our local Masjid, or through events, conferences or by reading books. Seek as much knowledge as possible till death and put it into practice.
At the same time, while you seek knowledge don't forget your family and friends, help them by teaching them or taking them to the lectures that you attend! This is one of the areas many brothers/sisters neglect, after getting into the Deen they end up going home and expects everyone to change without putting in the time and effort to help them. Also remember that knowledge without good character is pointless, so read up books on manners and ettiquetes and inshaAllah that will help.
inshaAllah the following will be enough motivation for you to seek Ilm or further your studies....
“It is only those who have knowledge among His slaves that fear Allah.” [Fatir 35:28]
“Whenever Allah desires good for a person He grants him the understanding of the religion.” [Bukhari]
“Say: ‘Are those who know equal to those who do not know?’ It is only men of understanding who will remember.” [Az-Zumar 39:9]
“Whosoever pursues a path to seek knowledge therein, Allah will thereby make easy for him a path to Paradise. Verily, the Angels lower their wings for the Seeker of Knowledge out of contentment for what he does. Verily, everything in the heavens and everything in the earth, even the fish in the water, asks forgiveness for the scholar. The superiority of the scholar over the worshipper is like the superiority of the moon over the rest of the stars. Verily, the scholars are the inheritors of the Prophets, and verily, the Prophets did not inherit a Dinar nor a Dirham, rather they only inherited knowledge, so whoever takes a hold of it has taken a hold of a great fortune.” [Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah, Ibn Hibban, Bayhaqee]
"Seek knowledge, because seeking it for the sake of Allah is a worship. And knowing it makes you more God-fearing; and searching for it is jihad, teaching it to those who do not know is charity, reviewing and learning it more is like tasbeeh. Through knowledge Allah will be known and worshipped. With the knowledge Allah will elevate people and make them leaders and imams, who will in turn guide other people." Ibn Taymiyya vol.10, p.39
"Whoever treads on a path in search of Islamic knowledge, Allah will ease the way to Paradise for him. The angels will lower their wings, pleased with this seeker of knowledge, and everyone in the heavens and on earth will ask forgiveness for the knowledgeable person, even the fish in the deepest of waters will ask for his forgiveness” [Abu Dawud, Ibn Majah, Tirmidhi]
“He whom death overtakes while he is engaged in acquiring knowledge with a view to reviving Islam with the help of it, there will be one degree between him and the Prophets in Paradise .” [Al-Tirmidhi]
Prophet (saw) said,"Whoever goes down a path/road searching for knowledge, Allah will make it easy for him the road to Paradise ." [Muslim]
"Whoever goes to the mosque not desiring except to learn or teach what is good has the reward of a pilgrim who completed his Hajj." [at-Tabarani, classed as Saheeh by Al-Albani]
Imaam Adh-Dhahabee (d. 748H) said: "Whoever's heart becomes sick with doubts and false notions, then this condition will not come to an end unless he asks the people of knowledge, so that he learns from the truth that which will repel his sickness. And thus it will not affect him seriously.
Imam Shafi’ (rahimahullah) said: "Whoever seeks the fruits of this life should gain Islamic knowledge, and whoever seeks the hereafter should gain (Islamic) knowledge."
Monday, March 23, 2009
Free Hajj! NO VISA Required
Free Hajj! NO VISA Required
AMAZING OPPORTUNITY FOR YOU TO GET THE GREAT BLESSINGS OF HAJJ.
NO HASSLE AT ALL!
NO VISA REQUIRED!
FINANCIALLY UNSTABLE?
NO PROBLEM AT ALL!!!
LIMITED TIME OFFER! TAKE ADVANTAGE BEFORE DEATH!!!
HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE???
CHECK IT OUT, AND MAKE SURE YOU SHARE WITH OTHERS AS WELL
HERE'S THE DEAL! IT’S A PACKAGE WITH NO 5 STAR HOTEL or BUFFET!
THIS IS NO SCAM!
Prophet (salallahu alayhi wasalam) said, "Whoever leaves his home in a state of purity (wudu) to perform obligatory prayer, his reward is like that of a pilgrim (while in the state of ihram). (ie. He receives a reward similar to that of spending time in ihram during hajj)
[Abu Dawood, Saheeh Al Albani]
Prophet (salallahu alayhi wasalam) said, “Whoever goes to the Masjid not desiring (anything) except to learn or teach what is good has the reward of a pilgrim who completed Hajj”
[At-Tabaranee, Saheeh Al Albani]
Prophet (salallahu alayhi wasalam) said, “Whoever prays Al Fajr in congregation (in the Masjid), then sits remembering Allah until sunrise, then prays two units of prayer, has a complete reward of Hajj and Umrah [The Prophet repeated complete three times for emphasis]
[At-Tirmidhee]
Please Note: This does not remove the obligation to do Hajj at least once in a lifetime. It gives you the opportunity to receive a similar reward.
This is an example of the Mercy of Allah.
AMAZING OPPORTUNITY FOR YOU TO GET THE GREAT BLESSINGS OF HAJJ.
NO HASSLE AT ALL!
NO VISA REQUIRED!
FINANCIALLY UNSTABLE?
NO PROBLEM AT ALL!!!
LIMITED TIME OFFER! TAKE ADVANTAGE BEFORE DEATH!!!
HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE???
CHECK IT OUT, AND MAKE SURE YOU SHARE WITH OTHERS AS WELL
HERE'S THE DEAL! IT’S A PACKAGE WITH NO 5 STAR HOTEL or BUFFET!
THIS IS NO SCAM!
Prophet (salallahu alayhi wasalam) said, "Whoever leaves his home in a state of purity (wudu) to perform obligatory prayer, his reward is like that of a pilgrim (while in the state of ihram). (ie. He receives a reward similar to that of spending time in ihram during hajj)
[Abu Dawood, Saheeh Al Albani]
Prophet (salallahu alayhi wasalam) said, “Whoever goes to the Masjid not desiring (anything) except to learn or teach what is good has the reward of a pilgrim who completed Hajj”
[At-Tabaranee, Saheeh Al Albani]
Prophet (salallahu alayhi wasalam) said, “Whoever prays Al Fajr in congregation (in the Masjid), then sits remembering Allah until sunrise, then prays two units of prayer, has a complete reward of Hajj and Umrah [The Prophet repeated complete three times for emphasis]
[At-Tirmidhee]
Please Note: This does not remove the obligation to do Hajj at least once in a lifetime. It gives you the opportunity to receive a similar reward.
This is an example of the Mercy of Allah.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Lotto 649 Just Imagine!
assalamu alaykum,
One of the characteristics of the hypocrite is to question in order to seek an answer that is appealing to him/her, if it’s not appealing, the person making the statement is an "extremist" or "fundamentalist".
Some things that are clearly stated in the Quran, such as prohibition of Interest, gambling etc are issues which somehow have become "controversial" due to the attachment of people to these things (primarily because of the love of the duniya).
How many times do we hear,
"I just play the lotto once a month, once a year... come on its only 2 bucks and believe me if I win a Million dollars, $200,000 is going to the Masjid, another $100,000 is going to charity.." Then you hear them say bismillah when scratching a lotto, or waiting to see the numbers.
Since we have ended up in a time when direct orders from Allah are not as important as "western scholars such as professors". Here is something that western scholars have to say from a textbook I was using in class. (Consumer Behaviour pg. 24)
"There are 62 casinos in Canada, 39 of which opened between 95 and 05. In addition, there are 87,000 slot machines and video lottery terminals, 250 racetracks and off-track betting theatres, 33,000 lottery ticket centres, and 25,000 charitable gaming licences. The result is windfall profits for provincial governments, which collected $7 BILLION - or $375 per adult in 2004. As for the 1.2 MILLION Canadians who struggled with gambling disorders and addiction, governments spent $63 per problem gambler on treatment programs. It seems the house always wins!"
“…Whether it takes the form of casino gambling, playing the slots, betting on sports events with friends or through a bookie, or buying lottery tickets, excessive gambling can be quite destructive. Taken to extremes it can result in lowered self esteem, debt, divorce, and neglected children.”
Wisdom behind the Prohibition of Gambling:
http://islamqa.com/en/ref/4013/gambling
- Fares Elahi
Monday, January 12, 2009
Order Your Free Islamic Books
FREE ISLAMIC BOOKS
Dear visitor,
Feel free to choose any FIVE books from the UPDATED list below. We will “God willing” ship them to you for free. Please send your request to: islam_cc@yahoo.com . USE THE TEMPLATE ON THE BOTTOM TO FILL IN YOUR INFORMATION and COPY AND PASTE IT with the 5 books you want.
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1. A brief illustrated guide to understanding Islam. By I. A. Ibrahim
(One of the best ever written books about Islam in English.)
2. The Universality of Islam. NEW By Prof. Abdullah H. Al-Kahtany.
(There is a dire need among the majority of the world’s population for a way of life that can solve their problems and answer their unanswered questions about existence and destiny. With escalating rates of immorality and violence in the world, increasing numbers of people have been searching for a way out. Many have found suicide to be the easiest and probably fastest solution. No wonder our world is wading in a state of chaos. It has tried so many ideologies and applied countless socioeconomic theories, but none have proven to be quite right. That which has been tried has failed, and that which has failed has been tried again . . . and again. Surely the time has come to ask questions if there is another way, an alternative system that could be adopted by the whole world.
Prof. Abdullah Al-Kahtany, proves in this contemporary book that Islamic principles and teachings can provide realistic, fair and objective solutions to the prevention of individual, familial, social and international problems, which are threatening the existence of human communities throughout the world.)
3. The Spirit of Islam. By Muhammad Asad
(Offers a crystal-clear view into Islam by an Austrian Muslim.. a former Jew.)
4. Islam Is Your Birthright. NEW Compiled by Majed S. Al-Rassi
(- Is it necessary to adopt a religion?
- And how to differentiate between a false and a true religion?
Such questions arise in the mind of a Truth-Seeker. The present book addresses these issues.)
5. The Qur'an Translated: Message for Humanity NEW
(Between the two covers of this Book you will find the answers to those questions which touch the very heart of your being: why am I here? Where am I heading? How may I achieve happiness? How can I find inner peace?)
6. Interpretation of the meanings of the Noble Qur’an in the English language with
TRANSLITERATION (Part 30)
7. What Everyone Should Know About the Qur’an. By Dr. Ahmed Abdel-Fattah Al-Laithy
(An essential book for everyone wanting to know about the living miracle of Islam i.e. the Noble Qur’an. The work also paves the way for any reader who wishes to study the Qur’an in any degree of depth.)
8. The Amazing Qur’an. By Gary Miller
(Calling the Qur’an amazing is not something done only by Muslims; it has been labeled amazing by non-Muslims as well.)
9. The Qur'an & Modern Science: Compatible or Incompatible? NEW By Dr. Zakir Naik
(Ever since the dawn of human life on this planet, Man has always sought to understand Nature, his own place in the scheme of Creation and the purpose of Life itself. The Qur'an, the main source of the Islamic faith is believed to be a Divine guidance for all human kind; its message is for all times therefore it should be relevant to every age. Does the Qur'an pass this test?
The present book discusses this and offers an objective analysis about the Divine origin of the Qur'an in the light of established scientific discoveries.)
10. Mercy for the Worlds. By Syed Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi
(A brief enlightening book showing the mercy God has given to the world through the
mission of His last Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) related by a renounced author.)
11. Have You Discovered the Truth About Him? New By Dr. Naji Arfaj
(Perhaps you have preconceived, negative notions about Islam and its Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). Perhaps you have read or heard about him from unauthentic or biased sources.
So, we invite you to objectively and open-mindedly read this booklet which demonstrates the truth about him (pbuh).)
12. Fallacies & Misconceptions about the Messenger’s Marriages (pbuh).
By Sheikh Muhammad Aly Al-Saboony
(The book enables you to analysis & realize the true facts behind the Prophet’s plural marriages.)
13. Essential Lessons for Every Muslim. By Sheikh Bin Baz
(Covers a wide range of basic information, that explains the fundamental teachings of Islam)
14. A Brief Summary of FIQH Essentials. Produced by Saheeh International
(A guide for new Muslim who needs to gain basic knowledge.)
15. Bearing True Witness. NEW By Dr. Laurence B. Brown
(The author, Dr. Laurence B. Brown, a practicing ophthalmologist and author of several ground-breaking books on Islam, has written this book to assist new reverts in navigating controversial issues of their new, chosen religion of Islam.)
16. Prayers for beginners. By Abdul Basit Quraishi
(This book supplies illustrated information to enable one to perform ablution &
prayer with transliteration of the Opening Chapter (Alfatiha) and some short
verses.)
17. Woman in Islam. By B. Aisha Lemu & Fatima Heeren
(Two European women scholars express their views on the status of woman in Islam.)
18. Veils of Dignity. NEW By Khadija Watson (Formerly Mary Sue Malvar)
(An informative book addressing the rights of Muslim women in marriage, polygamy & divorce. Included in this book is the personal dynamic testimony on how & why Sue Malvar - a former Western Christian missionary & Professor, holder of Masters Degree in Theology - embraced Islam.)
19. A view through hijab (veil). By Khaula Nakata (Japan) & Ruth Anderson (USA)
(Narration of ladies who voluntarily adopted hijab at a matured age having grown
up in a different culture.)
20. Polygamy in Islam. By Bilal Philips & Jameelah Jones
(This book contains basic guidelines for anyone interested in understanding the rights and obligations of males and females in Islamic plural marriages.)
21. The Ideal Muslim Husband. NEW By B. Aisha Lemu
(The Author, a well-known British lady writer tries to make the reader aware of the Islamic standard for an ideal husband and to encourage the husband to reach that standard as much as he wishes his wife to reach it as an ideal Muslim wife.)
22. The Ideal Muslim Wife. NEW By B. Aisha Lemu
(The Author, a well-known British lady writer tries to make reader aware of the Islamic standard for an ideal wife and to encourage the wife to reach that standard as much as she wishes her husband to reach it as an ideal Muslim husband.)
23. Women's Ideal Liberation: NEW By Rukaiyah Hill
(The Author, an American lady writer, tries to point out to women that there exists a
way of life that preserves, protects, comforts, dignifies and liberates them and their
male counterpart from snares of man-made ideologies.)
24. Khadijah bint Khuwaylid: By Dr. Daud Abdullah
(A brief biography of the first woman to embrace Islam)
25. Aisha bint Abi Bakr: Dr. Daud Abdullah
(A brief biography of one of the greatest Muslim lady scholar.)
26. A Day in the life of a Muslim Child: NEW Compiled by Abdul Malik Mujahid
(A very interesting and illustrated book that deals with the ideal daily program in the life of a Muslim child.)
27. The Road to Happiness. Compiled by F. William Hamerman
(The goal of this book is to examine what leads to happiness, which so many people
seem to be searching for.)
28. The Best Way to Live and Die. By Donald W. Flood
(Biography of an American Truth-seeker who found his quest.)
29. It feels like somebody lied to me. NEW By Yahya George Maxwell
(A bewildered Western Truth-Seeker relates his spiritual journey from Christianity to Buddhism until he found the Truth in Islam.)
30. The search for truth. Compiled by: Dr. Saleh As-Saleh
(A call for people to search for their salvation by examining an example of a long
search by a man called Salman.)
31. Why I embraced Islam. By Maryam Jameelah
(A fascinating account of how the author, an American female, discovered the beauty of
Islam through the Qur'an and the life of the Prophet (pbuh).)
32. Illimitable Determination. NEW By Iman A. Alaseery
(Accounts of bewildered men & women who finally found happiness through
Guidance.)
33. My Great Love for Jesus (pbuh) led me to Islam. By Simon Alfredo Caraballo
(A fascinating book presenting facts about the beloved Prophet Jesus (pbuh) that will
eventually lead to Islam.)
34. Dr. Jeremiah's Spiritual Journey. NEW
(Facing a major problem with Christian thought, Dr. Jeremiah did not really fit anywhere, it was rough for him to know what to believe in. So he started searching and through reading the Holy Qur'an and about Islam and the true stories of Prophet Mohammad (pbuh), he discovered that the Holy Qur'an not only confirmed things he was already thinking, but completed thoughts he was only vaguely aware of. Coming from a background of formal studies in religious issues, Dr. Jeremiah found his way and embraced Islam.)
35. The Truth about the Original Sin. By Prof. Abdullah H. Al-Kahtany
(The book discusses objectively the concept of the Original Sin in Christianity.)
36. Scriptures of Christianity & Islam: A Basic Comparison. NEW By G. Miller
(Discussing the scriptures of Islam & Christianity, Gary Miller, a Canadian Muslim indicates that a Muslim believes in the religion of Jesus but sees mainline Christianity as a religion constructed about Jesus. The majority of Christians deify Jesus while Muslims say that he was a great prophet & messenger of Allah.)
37. The Relationship between Muslims and Non-Muslims. By Dr. Saeed Ismaeel
(Read to get a clear and broader understanding of the Islamic law concerning the relationship between Muslims and Non-Muslims.)
38. Controversial Questions about Islam & Comments. By Dr. Saeed Ismaeel
(In this well-informed & an eye-opener book, the author, based on his years of dialogue with non-Muslims, addresses frequently-asked questions about Islam.)
39. Laxity, Moderation & Extremism. By B. Aisha Lemu
(In this informative book; B. Aisha Lemu a well-known British lady writer, discusses frankly three contemporary issues i.e. Laxity, Moderation & Extremism. She proves – with evidences- that Islam came to propagate moderation and to denounce both laxity & extremism.)
40. Une Détermination Sans Limites. NEW (IN FRENCH)
(Récits de femmes et d'hommes qui ont trouvé le salut et le bonheur par la Guidée d'Allah.)
41. Ang Maikling Paglalarawan Ng Pamamatnubay Tungo Sa Pag-unawa Sa Islam. NEW
(IN TAGALOG)
(Isa sa pinaka-nangungunang aklat tungkol sa Islam na isinalin sa Tagalog.)
42. كتبهــا الشيخ محمد محمود الشردوب . من ثمــار الدعــوة
(قصص عالمية و اقعية لرجال و نساء كانوا حيارى و تائهين ثم و جدوا السعادة في الإسلام)
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above is from http://www.islamunveiled.com/
India’s Muslims in Crisis
“The disparities between Muslims, which make up 13.4% of the population, and India's Hindu population, which hovers around 80%, are striking. There are exceptions, of course, but generally speaking Muslim Indians have shorter life spans, worse health, lower literacy levels, and lower-paying jobs.” – Yahoo News, Aryn Baker
Assalam wa’laikum wa rahmatullah brothers and sisters,
I would like to remind myself before reminding others. We all heard about the recent incidents that happened in India where about 200 innocent people were killed. Of course this is all over the news and is being called the Indian 9/11 with the blame always edging towards Muslims even though we denounce this type of action. I was reading an article for which I have provided the link below called “Behind the Mumbai Massacre: Indian Muslims in crisis”. This article shows a somewhat unbiased view of the Hindu/Muslim relationship in India and it brought out some good points. Muslims in India are badly oppressed by the Hindu majority and oppressed by “us” as well because we forget about the struggles they face and we forget to remember them in our prayers.
Just search Gujarat massacre or oppressed Muslims in youtube and you will find the gruesome stories of Muslims being murdered by them. Over 2000 of our brothers and sisters were killed in Gujarat in 2002. You can find a video on youtube about one of the Hindu Nationalist talking about his success in ripping out a baby out of a pregnant woman with his hands and killing them both, then stating, “We are showing Muslims what we are capable of”. Think that’s bad, there is tons of stories like this, some of which we cannot even conceive. I am sure the media did an excellent job in exposing all this.
What about the destruction of Babri Masjid, where over 150,000 Hindu nationalists destroyed the Masjid and killed, stoned, burned several of our brothers and sisters once again. Just try and watch some of these videos or read some of these stories and I guarantee you, you wont be able to complete it. Imagine being in these massacres and seeing your family getting chopped up or burned just because you worship One God.
What did we do when these things happened? Just sat at home and watched Bollywood and indirectly supported the oppressors? What did the so called Muslim actors “heroes” do? With such status they could have at least made public statements against this type of behavior. But no we need to assimilate with their culture, wearing their clothes, listening to their music, watching their movies, conducting similar weddings and supporting their industry etc.
Yet at the same time, this industry mocks and humiliates the Muslims in their movies. Do you think they would ever accept and at the same time “assimilate” (just like we did) to our ways of living? I remember the treatment some Muslim sisters received from flight attendants of Air India just because of wearing a hijab. I was informed that Air India does not even provide Halal food, whereas all Muslim airlines provide Hindu “veggie” meals. And keep in mind the population of Muslims in India is the 2nd or 3rd largest in the world.
What are we doing brothers/sisters? Why are we adapting to this culture when their hatred and mockery towards us is crystal clear? What happened to our Islamic values? Why do we mock and look down at brothers/sisters who have chosen Islam as their Deen and adapt the way of kufr?
Don’t get me wrong, this is not to spread hate against any group as Islam condemns any violence against the innocent. It is also not to insult any brothers/sisters; rather it is to remind my brothers/sisters to come back to the Qur’an and Sunnah and to enter into Islam perfectly and completely. It is a reminder to live up to our claims of being Muslims.
Brothers and sisters we are on the Deen of Haqq (Religion of Truth), we are commanded to enjoin good and forbid evil. Allah has mentioned in the Qur’an that He has perfected our religion and has chosen Islam to be our religion. So let’s practice our religion with certainty and let’s not mix it up with garbage.
Remember the oppressed in your duas.
May Allah purify our hearts from hypocrisy. Ameen!
And remember Allâh's Favour upon you and His Covenant with which He bound you when you said: "We hear and we obey." And fear Allâh. Verily, Allâh is All Knower of the secrets of your breasts. (5: 7)
O you who believe! Enter perfectly in Islâm (by obeying all the rules and regulations of the Islâmic religion) and follow not the footsteps of Shaitân (Satan). Verily! He is to you a plain enemy. (2: 208)
And of mankind, there are some (hypocrites) who say: "We believe in Allâh and the Last Day" while in fact they believe not. 9. They (think to) deceive Allâh and those who believe, while they only deceive themselves, and perceive (it) not! (2 : 8, 9)
And when it is said to them (hypocrites): "Believe as the people (followers of Muhammad Peace be upon him , Al-Ansâr and Al-Muhajirûn) have believed," they say: "Shall we believe as the fools have believed?" Verily, they are the fools, but they know not. 14. And when they meet those who believe, they say: "We believe," but when they are alone with their Shayâtin (devils - polytheists, hypocrites, etc.), they say: "Truly, we are with you; verily, we were but mocking." 15. Allâh mocks at them and gives them increase in their wrong-doings to wander blindly. (2: 13, 14, 15)
Beautified is the life of this world for those who adapted the way of disbelief, and they mock at those who believe. But those who obey Allâh's Orders and keep away from what He has forbidden, will be above them on the Day of Resurrection. And Allâh gives (of His Bounty, Blessings, Favours, Honours, etc. on the Day of Resurrection) to whom He wills without limit. (2: 212)
Fares Elahi
Link to the article:http://news.yahoo.com/s/time/20081127/wl_time/08599186265000;_ylt=Ah026nDcdiRjxZswI_9OeRn9xg8F
Hide Your Deeds!
I would like to remind myself, before I remind others. These are lessons which may be beneficial for others, so I wish to share.
A few months back I was taking the Bus home, returning from the Masjid and I happened to see an elderly brother in the bus (MashaAllah wearing a Kufi, beard and Sunnah). We both gave Salam to each other and started a brief conversation, however within a minute into the conversation I got very confused and baffled by certain things stated by the brother (May Allah have mercy on him and us and purify our akhlaaq (Character)).
After we both gave each other Salam and started to converse, suddenly in a moment of silence the brother said,
“O by the way, I am a Hafez”. My face was in total shock, my mind confused.
I said “MashaAllah” (Of course outwardly). Inwardly I said in my mind “Whoa, is this guy for real?” Then the brother added “I am also an Alim (Knowledgeable Islamic Scholar)”. Again, I said “MashaAllah” in a very confused pitch. Inwardly I was like WOW, why did this brother just tell me this? Was it really necessary? Could a scholar really call himself a scholar just like that? Let alone a Hafez stating his credentials for people to know?
I happened to recall this incident once again at a recent lecture by Shaikh AbdulBary Yahya (A graduate from University of Madinah) regarding three I’s: Islam (Submission), Iman (Belief) & Ihsan (Worshipping Allah as if you can see Him and knowing that He can see you at all times).
It is from the very famous and authentic Hadith of Jibreel (AS) three main categories were laid out:
1. Muslim (Someone who submits to the 5 pillars of Islam)
2. Mu’min (A believer of the 6 pillars of Iman)
3. Muhsin (A believer who worships Allah as if he can see Him, affirms and knows that He is being watched at all times).
I will specifically elaborate about the category of the one who is a Muhsin. When one is a Muhsin, one is obviously a Muslim and a Mu’min, as a Muhsin is the highest level of the three. In order to be a Muhsin you must be a Muslim first.
Shaikh AbdulBary Yahya mentioned that a Muhsin is one who is not affected by what others say; whether it is a good comment or criticism, because they know in the end they did a certain act only for the sake of Allah. He also mentioned that a true Muhsin does not like to show his/her deeds, they try their best to hide their deeds as much as possible and is never satisfied by the amount of deeds he/she has done.
When a Muhsin volunteers for certain Islamic activities/events (example, MSA, journey of faith, RIS etc) it is best to keep their profile on the low, as this is true sincerity and humility. Human beings are made weak in these terms as they feel the need to be praised by others, but a true Muhsin is satisfied with their relationship with Allah and does not seek praises from others, rather he/she knows that the best deeds are the ones that are kept hidden.
The Shaikh gave an excellent example of a Muhsin through the character of his father who passed away (May Allah have mercy on him). The Masjid that the shaikh and his father used to be part of had a washroom (bathroom), which would be used regularly by Muslims taking part in the Masjid and its activities. This washroom would be cleaned and taken care of without anyone really recognizing and knowing who did the real work in cleaning it. After the Shaikh’s father passed away, the washroom started to reek and the foul smell would reach the hallways. This is when they realized that his father was the one, who would wake up early in the morning and arrive to clean the washroom only for the Sake of Allah (Seeking rewards for Allah). Brothers/Sisters this is how a true Muhsin should act. If we want to get the status of being a Muhsin in the eyes of Allah (subhana wa ta’ala) this is the akhlaaq that we need to acquire.
So this is just a reminder for all the Talib ul Ilm (Student of Knowledge) and anyone volunteering for events, lectures etc. Let us try our best to hide our deeds, whether it be from exposing it on MSN, facebook, in person or any other sneaky ways shaytan tries to make us expose our deeds. Let us find this true humility within ourselves.
Lastly I would like to remind you and me of the consequences of this behavior from a Sahih Hadith narrated by Imam Muslim from Abu Huraira (RA), where Prophet (SalallahuAlayhiwasalam) mentioned three people who will be sent to the fire.
1. A martyr who died fighting for Islam.
2. A scholar who acquired and taught knowledge & was fluent in the reciting of the Qur’an.
3. A wealthy person who gave lots in Sadaqah (Charity).
Allah will bring these people on the Day of Judgment and question them about their blessings, they will all say O Allah I did it for your sake only! They will be told that they are LIARS. YOU DIED SO PEOPLE WILL REMEMBER YOU AS A GREAT WARRIOR, YOU TAUGHT SO PEOPLE SAY WILL SAY MASHAALLAH WHAT A GREAT SCHOLAR, YOU GAVE CHARITY SO PEOPLE WILL SEE YOU. Then they will be dragged and thrown into the fire of hell. (A’zoubillah, I seek refuge in Allah from this for all of us). In another Authentic Hadith narrated by Imam Ahmed regarding Ar-Riya (Showing off) Prophet (SalallahuAlayhiwasalam) said that Allah will bring these people on the Day of Judgment, when Allah begins to give the rewards, He will tell them to go to the people that they tried to impress in the Duniya and seek reward from them.
I ask Allah (Subhana wa’tala) to make us one of the Muhsins and to purify our hearts from hypocrisy. Ameen
Allahumma Tahir Qullubana min an Nifaaq (O Allah Purify our hearts from Hypocrasy) Ameen.
"I have never tried to cure anything, that is more difficult to cure than my Niyah (Intention)" Shaikh Sufyan Ath-Thawri (Ameer Al Mu'mineen fe Hadith) (RA)
Please remember me in your prayers, forgive me if I have said anything wrong and know that all good written here is from Allah and all mistakes and evil is from the accursed Shaytan.
Your Brother in Islam,
Fares Elahi
http://www.emanboosters.tk/
A few months back I was taking the Bus home, returning from the Masjid and I happened to see an elderly brother in the bus (MashaAllah wearing a Kufi, beard and Sunnah). We both gave Salam to each other and started a brief conversation, however within a minute into the conversation I got very confused and baffled by certain things stated by the brother (May Allah have mercy on him and us and purify our akhlaaq (Character)).
After we both gave each other Salam and started to converse, suddenly in a moment of silence the brother said,
“O by the way, I am a Hafez”. My face was in total shock, my mind confused.
I said “MashaAllah” (Of course outwardly). Inwardly I said in my mind “Whoa, is this guy for real?” Then the brother added “I am also an Alim (Knowledgeable Islamic Scholar)”. Again, I said “MashaAllah” in a very confused pitch. Inwardly I was like WOW, why did this brother just tell me this? Was it really necessary? Could a scholar really call himself a scholar just like that? Let alone a Hafez stating his credentials for people to know?
I happened to recall this incident once again at a recent lecture by Shaikh AbdulBary Yahya (A graduate from University of Madinah) regarding three I’s: Islam (Submission), Iman (Belief) & Ihsan (Worshipping Allah as if you can see Him and knowing that He can see you at all times).
It is from the very famous and authentic Hadith of Jibreel (AS) three main categories were laid out:
1. Muslim (Someone who submits to the 5 pillars of Islam)
2. Mu’min (A believer of the 6 pillars of Iman)
3. Muhsin (A believer who worships Allah as if he can see Him, affirms and knows that He is being watched at all times).
I will specifically elaborate about the category of the one who is a Muhsin. When one is a Muhsin, one is obviously a Muslim and a Mu’min, as a Muhsin is the highest level of the three. In order to be a Muhsin you must be a Muslim first.
Shaikh AbdulBary Yahya mentioned that a Muhsin is one who is not affected by what others say; whether it is a good comment or criticism, because they know in the end they did a certain act only for the sake of Allah. He also mentioned that a true Muhsin does not like to show his/her deeds, they try their best to hide their deeds as much as possible and is never satisfied by the amount of deeds he/she has done.
When a Muhsin volunteers for certain Islamic activities/events (example, MSA, journey of faith, RIS etc) it is best to keep their profile on the low, as this is true sincerity and humility. Human beings are made weak in these terms as they feel the need to be praised by others, but a true Muhsin is satisfied with their relationship with Allah and does not seek praises from others, rather he/she knows that the best deeds are the ones that are kept hidden.
The Shaikh gave an excellent example of a Muhsin through the character of his father who passed away (May Allah have mercy on him). The Masjid that the shaikh and his father used to be part of had a washroom (bathroom), which would be used regularly by Muslims taking part in the Masjid and its activities. This washroom would be cleaned and taken care of without anyone really recognizing and knowing who did the real work in cleaning it. After the Shaikh’s father passed away, the washroom started to reek and the foul smell would reach the hallways. This is when they realized that his father was the one, who would wake up early in the morning and arrive to clean the washroom only for the Sake of Allah (Seeking rewards for Allah). Brothers/Sisters this is how a true Muhsin should act. If we want to get the status of being a Muhsin in the eyes of Allah (subhana wa ta’ala) this is the akhlaaq that we need to acquire.
So this is just a reminder for all the Talib ul Ilm (Student of Knowledge) and anyone volunteering for events, lectures etc. Let us try our best to hide our deeds, whether it be from exposing it on MSN, facebook, in person or any other sneaky ways shaytan tries to make us expose our deeds. Let us find this true humility within ourselves.
Lastly I would like to remind you and me of the consequences of this behavior from a Sahih Hadith narrated by Imam Muslim from Abu Huraira (RA), where Prophet (SalallahuAlayhiwasalam) mentioned three people who will be sent to the fire.
1. A martyr who died fighting for Islam.
2. A scholar who acquired and taught knowledge & was fluent in the reciting of the Qur’an.
3. A wealthy person who gave lots in Sadaqah (Charity).
Allah will bring these people on the Day of Judgment and question them about their blessings, they will all say O Allah I did it for your sake only! They will be told that they are LIARS. YOU DIED SO PEOPLE WILL REMEMBER YOU AS A GREAT WARRIOR, YOU TAUGHT SO PEOPLE SAY WILL SAY MASHAALLAH WHAT A GREAT SCHOLAR, YOU GAVE CHARITY SO PEOPLE WILL SEE YOU. Then they will be dragged and thrown into the fire of hell. (A’zoubillah, I seek refuge in Allah from this for all of us). In another Authentic Hadith narrated by Imam Ahmed regarding Ar-Riya (Showing off) Prophet (SalallahuAlayhiwasalam) said that Allah will bring these people on the Day of Judgment, when Allah begins to give the rewards, He will tell them to go to the people that they tried to impress in the Duniya and seek reward from them.
I ask Allah (Subhana wa’tala) to make us one of the Muhsins and to purify our hearts from hypocrisy. Ameen
Allahumma Tahir Qullubana min an Nifaaq (O Allah Purify our hearts from Hypocrasy) Ameen.
"I have never tried to cure anything, that is more difficult to cure than my Niyah (Intention)" Shaikh Sufyan Ath-Thawri (Ameer Al Mu'mineen fe Hadith) (RA)
Please remember me in your prayers, forgive me if I have said anything wrong and know that all good written here is from Allah and all mistakes and evil is from the accursed Shaytan.
Your Brother in Islam,
Fares Elahi
http://www.emanboosters.tk/
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