The end times mattersregarding the end times that they want you to forget

The personages who will appear in the End Times and the events that
will take place during that period are most important issues that
mankind has been keenly awaiting for hundreds of years. Recently,
however, the portents, reports and glad tidings regarding the End
Times have beenignored by some, and there have been attempts to have
these facts concealed or forgotten.
According to the portents of the End Times, revealed in detail in the
hadiths of our Prophet Muhammad (saas), the End Times willconsist of
two periods. The first stage of this holy time will be a period of
corruption, moral degeneration, disasters, conflict, war and want. The
second part of the End Times, however, will be a period full of
beauty, when, with the return ofthe Prophet 'Isa (as) and the
appearance of Hazrat Mahdi (as), peace,security and freedom rule the
world and therewill be plenty and abundance, and people will be
content in all respects.
The hadiths contain reports of hundreds of portents revealing whenand
in what manner the End Times will commence. The fact that the portents
reported byour Prophet (saas) 14 centuries ago are one byone coming
about in ourown time makes it very clear that the first stage of the
End Times has begun. With the successive coming aboutof these portents
the Islamic world has entered into a most holy expectation: that of
the return to earth of the Prophet 'Isa (as) and, together with Hazrat
Mahdi (as), his elimination of the corruption of the dajjal and
causing the moral values of Islam to prevailover all the world.
By Allah's leave, those people who witness the portents of the End
Times may hope that thecoming of the Prophet 'Isa (as) and Hazrat
Mahdi (as) is close at hand. Every single portent is a reminder that
we are living in a most holy time. These historic glad tidings are, by
Allah's leave, about totake place.
Our beloved Prophet (saas) has told all believers living in the End
Times of these glad tidings, by emphasising this holy period in the
hadiths:
"Hazrat Mahdi (as) is from my Ahl al-Bayt and is of my descent. He
will fill the Earth with justice.He will absolutely set outtogether
with Isa (as) to help Isa (as) to kill dajjal in Palestine, the region
called Lud's Gate."1
However, there are those who are not awaiting these gladdest of
tidings that all Muslims are expecting with great excitement with the
same enthusiasm. In defiance of the hadiths regardingthe End Times,
the truth of which is agreed by all great Islamic scholars, they
remain apathetic and uninterested, and even wish Muslims to forget
these matters. There can be no doubt that awaiting Hazrat Mahdi (as),
whose moral virtues our Prophet (saas) compared to his own and whom he
praised for his elevated attributes, and a prophet such as 'Isa (as)
whose life was filled with miracles, is not something about which one
can be apathetic or else forget about.
THE COMING OF THE HAZRAT MAHDI (AS) IS A TIDING BESTOWED ON US BY OUR
PROPHET (SAAS). The tidings of the coming of Hazrat Mahdi (as) have
been imparted by our Prophet (saas) in person, and there are a great
many hadiths on the subject that are agreed to be completely
trustworthy (tewatur: a powerful report which cannot be untrue and
based upon an entire community). In the words of one hadith:"HAVE THE
GOOD NEWS OF HAZRAT MAHDI (AS). He is a person from Quraish and of my
Ahl al-Bayt." (Short Book of Portents of the End Times, p. 13), this
matter represents great glad tidings for all Muslims.
To be living in the End Times and witness the greatest intellectual
struggle in history is a major blessing bestowedon only a limited
number of people alive this century. Every sincere Muslim who is aware
of this will wish to follow the Prophet 'Isa (as) and Hazrat Mahdi
(as), chosen and given duties by Allah, and to support them in their
struggles. For true believers, the dominion of Islamic moral values
over the entire world will be the source of the greatest happiness in
this world. The aim behind this article is once again to recall these
important events and glad tidings of the End Times which must not be
forgotten.
THE DAJJAL (ANTI-CHRIST) IS ACTIVE…
One of those matters regarding the End Times that some would have
people forget is the emergence of the dajjal and the atheistic
corruption he will organise on Earth. We have already referred in
previous articles to the fact that the dajjal (anti-christ), about
whom detailed information is provided in the hadiths, has already
initiated his activities in these years. (Allah knows the truth.)
In the hadith "Since the day Allah created Prophet Adam (as), therehas
not been a fitnah greater than of the dajjal's."2Our Prophet (saas)
has noted the scale of the corruption of the dajjal and has warned all
Muslims against this threat. Indeed, the influence of the system of
the dajjal over the peoples of the world can be felt today. The
difficulties, troubles and oppression to whichMuslims in many
countries are subjected are increasing day by day. It is clear that
the destructive effect of atheism in societies plays a major role in
all forms of oppression, injustice and chaos in the modern world. The
eradication of the theory of evolution and Darwinist thought, which
those who are attempting to spread atheism in the world useas their
major support, isfor that reason a matter of the greatest importance.
Despite this obvious truth, however, some people seek to downplay the
significance of the intellectual struggle against Darwinism and insist
on failing to understand that the dajjal, described as the worst
corruption, implements this corruption through the theory of
evolution.
On the other hand, although everyone agrees that there is a major
moral degeneration across the world, the way that certain circles
attempt never to raise the issue of or to conceal the causes
underlying this degeneration is noteworthy in terms of the widespread
influence of the system of the dajjal. The fact is that this damaging
moral degeneration, which affects everyone in one way or another, can
only be remedied bythe unmasking of the influence of the system of the
dajjal that lies behind it.
Events taking place in the world show that the dajjal has already
begunoperations. This indicates that the appearance of the Hazrat
Mahdi (as) is also approaching. (Allah knows the truth.)
Some of the hundreds ofthe portents of the appearance of the Hazrat
Mahdi (as) that are now coming true OR HAVE TAKEN PLACE are as
follows: 1) THE INVASION OF AFGHANISTAN 2) THE IRAN-IRAQ WAR 3) THE
STOPPING OF THE WATERS OF THE RIVER EUPHRATES 4) ECLIPSES OF THE SUN
AND MOON DURING RAMADAN 5) THE BIRTH OFA COMET 6) AN ATTACK ON AND THE
SHEDDING OF BLOOD IN THE KAABA 7) FIRE BEING SEEN FROM THEEAST 8) THE
INVASION OF IRAQ 9) AN ARMY SINKING IN THE DESERT 10) WIDESPREAD
SLAUGHTER PRIOR TO THE APPEARANCEOF HAZRAT MAHDI (AS)11) CHAOS AND
CONFUSION EVERYWHERE IN THE WORLD 12) CORRUPTION IN WHICH EVEN WOMEN
AND CHILDREN ARE KILLED 13) THE DESTRUCTION OF GREAT CITIES 14)
INCREASED NUMBERS OF EARTHQUAKES. The successive realisation of the
hadiths regarding the appearance of Hazrat Mahdi (as) points to a
specific time frame. The way that all the portents have been taking
place in succession since the beginning of the 14thcentury, according
to the Hijri calendar, (1979-1980), makes it very clear that the time
we are living in is that inwhich Hazrat Mahdi (as)is on the Earth.
(Allahknows the truth.)
THE COMING OF HAZRAT MAHDI (AS) IS APPROACHING…
Heading the list of the major events of the End Times is the emergence
of Hazrat Mahdi (as) and the establishment of an Islamic Union under
his leadership. Hazrat Mahdi(as) will be a means whereby people live
by the moral values of the Qur'an and he will make an Islamic union
under his leadership a reality. In some hadiths our Prophet (saas) has
clearly given a date of 1400, Hijri style, (1979-1980 according to the
Gregorian calendar), for the coming of the Hazrat Mahdi (as) and has
imparted the glad tidings of the leadership of this holy individual.
One of these hadiths reads: "People will gahter around Hazrat Mahdi
(as) in the year 1400."3
This glad news will increase believers' joy and enthusiasm. In
addition to the hadiths of our Prophet (saas), through the
hand-written works theyhave written and that have survived from
theirday to the present, Islamic scholars have also transmitted the
joy and enthusiasm of these great glad tidings and have been a means
whereby the matter has been kept alive for believers. Indeed, a number
of portents that have come about in our own day show that the coming
of the Hazrat Mahdi (as) is very close.
There is no doubt that every new piece of information learned about
the subject will bea means of enhancing Muslims' excitement. However,
certain circles are unwilling for the subject of Hazrat Mahdi (as) to
be discussed in the open. They want people to forget about the subject
by keeping itquiet and imagine that they can prevent these glad
tidings. Almighty Allah has of course told us that He will foil all
these endeavours:"They desire to extinguish Allah's Light with their
mouths. But Allah refusesto do other than perfect His Light, even
though unbelievers detest it. It isHe Who sent His Messenger with
guidance and the Religion of Truth to exaltit over every other
religion, even though polytheists detest it."(Surat at-Tawba: 32-33)
BEDIUZZAMAN'S STATEMENTS REGARDING THE END TIMES CANNOT BEIGNORED
As we have already discussed in detail in previous articles, one of
the subjects to which Bediüzzaman Said Nursi, the renovator of the
13th century, Hijri-style, attaches the greatest importance is that of
theEnd Times. Bediuzzaman set out the portents and significant
personages of this holy age for Muslims over many pages and in
considerable details. He made important statements that act as a guide
for Muslims on thesubjects of the coming of Hazrat Mahdi (as) and the
way he will bring Islamic values to prevail on Earth. These valuable
descriptions, which shedlight on the period we are living in, cannot
be ignored or disregarded in any manner whatsoever.
THE WAY TO AN ISLAMIC UNION HAS BEEN OPENED UP
Careful attention reveals that there have been lately frequent
references to an Islamic Union in the written andvisual media.
Presidents, prime ministers and politicians from various countries,
television programme producers, various magazines and opinion shapers
have all expressed their desires on this issue. In addition,the taking
of some concrete steps to enable this union to come about is a most
pleasing development. The road leading to an Islamic Union is moving
ahead, but the really important thing here is that this subject is a
herald of the End Times and needs to be looked at from that point of
view. By Allah's leave, this union will be established by means of
Hazrat Mahdi (as). This task has already been successfully completed
inhis destiny. Yet this knowledge must not lead to any relaxation.
Muslims' responsibility is to keep the issue constantly alive and on
the agenda, to monitor events and inform all Muslims and raise their
awareness of this subject.
THE PROPHET 'ISA (AS) WILL COME TO EARTH FOR A SECOND TIME…
Attempts are also being made to cause people to forget and cover up
another welcome event concerning the End Times, the second coming to
earth of the Prophet 'Isa (as).
The fact is, however, that the second coming of the Prophet 'Isa (as)
isa fact imparted to believers in verses of theQur'an and the hadiths
of our Prophet (saas). Some of these hadiths read as follows:
"I swear to Allah in Whose hands is my life that the descent of Isa
(as), the son of Mary, as ajust rules is close."4
"Within my community Isa (as) ibn Mary will be a just ruler and a fair
imam (in administration), he will crush the cross and kill the
swine…As a pot is filled with water so doesthe Earth with peace. There
will also be unity of religion, and no longer will anyone worship
someone other than Allah."5
As revealed in the hadiths of our Prophet (saas), the Prophet 'Isa
(as), whom Allah raised into His presence two thousand years ago
(Surat an-Nisa, 158), will return to Earth again and will, together
with Hazrat Mahdi (as) and bythe leave of Allah, be a means whereby
peace and security are established in the world.Moreover, many events
and phenomena that have recently taken place also show that the coming
of this valued guest is close at hand. (Allah knows the truth.)
For that reason, the utmost must be made of the period we are living
in, and all attitudes and moral values that might embarrass the
Prophet 'Isa (as) when he comes must be strictly avoided. One of the
attitudes to be avoided, and perhapsthe most shameful, is without
doubt to cover up this fact and try to cause people to forget about
it, rather than celebrating it. For that reason, it is of the greatest
importance thatsincere believers keep the extraordinary natureof the
return of this holy emissary after two thousand years constantly on
the agenda, and that they prevent any relaxation or apathy on the part
of certain persons.
Salvation for those longing for justice, peace, order and virtue is,
by the leave of Allah, close at hand. Many developments taking place
are signs that this salvation is approaching.
People who witness this salvation may, by Allah's leave, hope that the
coming of the Prophet 'Isa (as) and Hazrat Mahdi (as) is close at
hand. Every sign is a reminder that we are living in a holy period. By
the will of Allah, thesehistoric tidings awaited for hundreds of years
are about to become reality.
There have been frequent references to an Islamic Union in the written
and visual media. The longing for such a union is expressed by certain
circles.
There can be no doubt that living in such a holy time, one that will
restore Islam to its true essence, that will be a means whereby people
come to believe, and that will establish a great unity among Muslims
is a great blessing for all Muslims. It must not be forgotten that
remaining uninterested and apathetic in the face of such great and
welcome events awaited by the whole Islamic world and seeking to have
others forget them may be a source of terrible shame in the future for
those who display such attitudes when, by Allah's leave, the
Prophet'Isa (as) and Hazrat Mahdi (as) appear. Our Lord has spoken of
this holy time in the Qur'an:
Allah has promised thoseof you who have faith and do right actions
thatHe will make them successors in the land as He made those before
them successors, and will firmly establish for them their deen with
which He is pleased and give them, in place of their fear, security.
'Theyworship Me, not associating anything with Me.' Any who are
disbelievers after that, such people are deviators. (Surat An-Nur: 55)
REFERENCES
1 – Death, Doomsday, the Hereafter and the Portents of the End Times,
Imam Sharani, Bedir Publishing, p. 438, (816)
2 - M. Chastrette, "Trends in structure-odor relationships", SAR QSAR
Environ. Res. 6, 1997, s.215-254.
3 – Risalat al-Khuruj al-Mahdi.
4 – Sahih Muslim, 6/532
5 - Ibn Majah, 10/334

There are important signs pointing the end of times in the verse 39 of Surah Taha

"Place him into the box and throw it into the sea and the sea will
wash it up on the shore, where an enemy of Mine and his will pick
it up." I showered you with love from Me so that you would be
brought up under My supervision."

Verse 86 of Surah Yunus points out the endtimes

" AND RESCUE US, BY YOUR MERCY, FROM THIS KAFIR PEOPLE!'."
Surah Yunus, 86
Wanajjina birahmatika mina alqawmi alkafireena
6 + 104 + 670 + 90 + 177 + 392 = 1439
(Without Shadda)
6 + 107 + 670 + 90 + 177 + 392 = 1442
(With Shaddda)
With Shadda; 1442/2021
Without Shadda; 1439/2018

The abjad value of the particular part of the verse 21 of Surah Yusuf ''... Allah is in control of His affair...'' indicates year 2040

The Egyptian who had bought him told his wife, 'Look after him with
honour and respect. It's possible he will be of use to us or
perhaps we might adopt him as a son.' And thus We established Yusuf
in the land to teach him the true meaning of events. ALLAH IS IN
CONTROL OF HIS AFFAIR. However, most of mankind do not know. (Surah
Yusuf, 21)
Arabic Transliteration: Waqala allathee ishtarahu min misra
liimraatihi akrimee mathwahu AAasa an yanfaAAana aw nattakhithahu
waladan wakathalika makkanna liyoosufa fee al-ardi walinuAAallimahu
min ta/weeli al-ahadeethi waAllahu ghalibun AAala amrihi walakinna
akthara alnnasi la yaAAlamoona
ALLAH IS IN CONTROL OF HIS AFFAIR
waAllahu ghalibun AAala amrihi
6 + 66 + 1033 + 110 + 246 = 1461 / 2040 (Without Shadda)

Ramadan Quiz: A Quick Checklist for the month ofRamadan

1.Make a resolve to win themaximum favor of Allah by performing extra
Voluntary prayers (Nawaafil), making frequent Dua and increased
remembrance (Dhikr).
2.Try to recite some Holy Quran after every Prayer. In fact if you
read 3-4 pages after every Prayer you can easily finish the entire
Quran in Ramadan!
3.Study the Tafseer (commentary) every morning.
4.Invite a person you are not very close with or your relatives to
your home for Iftaar, at leastonce a week (Weekend). You will notice
the blessings in your relationships!
5.Bring life to your family! Everyday, try to conclude the fast with
your family and spend some quality time together to understandeach
other better.
6.Give gifts on Eid to at least 5 people: 2 to your family members,
2to your good friends, and 1 to a person whom you love purely for the
sake of Allah.
7.Make commitment to join Islamic study circles to learn more about
Islam and improve your own life.
8.Donate generously to the Masajid, Islamic organizations, and any
where people are in need or oppressed."Because Ramadan, is a month of
sharing!"
9.Share month of Ramadan and its teachings of peace and patience with
your neighbours.
10.Sleep little, eat little! Make sure you do not defeat the purpose
of fasting by over-indulging in food and being lazy.
11.Seek the rare and oft-neglected rewardsof the night better than
1000 months ( Laylatul-Qadr / Shab-e-Qadr).
12.Weep in private for the forgiveness of your sins: Ramadan is the
month of forgiveness and Allah's Mercy! It's never too late.
13.Learn to control your tongue and lower your gaze. Remember the
Prophet's (pbuh) warning that lying, backbiting, and a lustful gaze
all violate the Ramadan fast!
14.Encourage others to enjoin and love goodness, and to abandon
everything that Allah dislikes. Playthe role of a Da'ee (one who
invites to Allah) with zeal, passion, and sympathy.
15.Experience the joy of Tahajjud prayers late at night and devote
yourself purely and fully to Allah in the Itikaf retreatduring the
last 10 days of Ramadan.
16. Ramadan Quiz: What is the primary GOAL for this Ramadan, month of fasting?
For something so important, we need to PLAN - to get the maximum out
of it. Please see the RAMADAN PLANNERin MS Excel - it consists of 3
forms (on 3 sheets). Take the printouts and fill it up. These forms
are not perfect, and do not claim to encompass every aspect of
Ramadan. Please feel free to modifythem as per your needs.

Ramadan Quotes: What toavoid list during the month of Ramadan

1.Reduce watching TV, instead spend more time reading the Quranand
other Islamic literature.
2.Avoid looking at unlawful pictures, whether magazines, department
store catalogs or otherwise.
3.Avoid going to theaters; instead go to Masajid, Islamic
organizations and make that a daily habit.
4.Avoid eating too much. Eat only when you are hungry and try not to
fill your stomach completely.
5.If you drink Coffee, Tea or Soda, be sure to reduce consumption.
6.If you smoke, try to reduce daily usage; otherwise Ramadan will be
very difficult foryou to observe.
7.If you like to listen to music, whether the style of western
societies or even those from Muslim countries, reduce, even eliminate
the time you spent on them; replace them with reciting and listening
to recitation from the Quran.
8.If you enjoy playing cards and board games try your best to avoid
them as much as possible and fill your time with something useful.
9.If you enjoy going withfriends to picnics and other social
gatherings,try to reduce it before Ramadan; otherwise fasting the
month of Ramadan will be more difficult.
10.If you have friends who do not practice the teaching of Islam, try
to avoid socializingwith them.
11.If you travel a lot on business, try to do more local business, so
you can be more closer to your family and community.
12.If you are used to staying up till midnight, try to go to bed
earlier, so that you will be able to wake up early for Salat al-Fajr
and Tahajjud prayers as well.
To prepare ourselves before the month of Ramadan arrives is far better
than waiting till it comes. To prepare ourselves for anything in life
is a sign of wisdom and maturity. No one is assured of living one day
more; tomorrow may notcome. So hurry and benefit from blessings and
rewards from Allah.
Remember:"Time is not money or gold; it is life itself and is limited.
You must begin to appreciateevery moment of your life and always
strive to make the best use of it." -Khurram Murad

Ramadan Quotes

Ramadan is the month of excitement for Muslims. Ramadan is the month
of revelation of Quran, the month of reading and reciting the whole
Quran,the month of Tahajjud and Qiyam al-layl prayers,Sadaqah, Zakah
al-Fitrand Zakah al-Mal. Ramadan is also a month of social activities
amongMuslims.
No one can go anywhere without preparation, andno one invites a guest
without preparing to welcome him / her. Similarly, to welcome Ramadan,
the month of fasting, one has to prepare. The following are some tips
to help the reader prepare accordingly:
1.Start reading Quran daily after Salat al-Fajr.
2.Spend some time listening to recitations from the Quran.
3.Train yourself to go bed early so that you can wake up far Salat al-Fajr.
4.Keep yourself in a state of Wudu (Ablution) most of the time.
5.Evaluate yourself daily before going bed.
6.Thank Allah for good deeds, and repent to Him for your mistakes and sins.
7.Start giving Sadaqah daily, no matter how little. Make it a habit
like eating and drinking.
8.Find time to pray extras, such as Tahajjudprayers.
9.Spend more time reading Islamic books, especially the Quran, Sirah,
Hadith, and Fiqh.
10.Find time to help others with your wisdom, knowledge and other talents.
11.Try to write articles onIslam for Muslims as well as for non-Muslims.
12.Associate with Muslim scholars / ulama and other pious people so
that you may learn from them.
13.Train yourself to do good, render free service to others to seek
the pleasure of Allah.

About Ramadan in Al Qur'an

(Fasting) for a fixed number of days; but if any of you is ill, or on
a journey, the prescribed number (Should be madeup) from days later.
For those who can do it (With hardship), is a ransom, the feeding of
one that is indigent. But he that will give more, of his own free
will, it is better for him. And it is better for you that ye fast, if
ye only knew. (2:184)
-
O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to
those before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint, (2:183)

Ramadan Articles - Just a Few More Days to Ramadhan:What Should You Do?

Days pass by, from one year to another, bringing the glad tidings of
the coming of the blessed month ofRamadanand announcing various forms
of blessings: ease in performing acts of righteousness, and abdundance
in mercy, forgiveness, and finally, salvation from Hell. InRamadan,
the valuesof love, brotherhood, tolerance, patience, open-handedness,
and generosity prevail, the ranks of the believers are raised, and the
manners of the fasting people are refined – all out of the Mercy of
Allaah The Almighty, Lord of the Worlds.
Al-Hasan Al-Basrisays,"Allaah The Almighty made the month of Ramadan a
racetrack where His creatures compete in obeying Him to attain His
Pleasure. Some people come first and thus have won; others remain
behind and thus have lost. How amazing is the runner who laughs on the
day when the doers of good win and the doers of falsehood lose!"
As the month ofRamadanapproaches, I advise myself and you to do the following:
Supplicate Allaah The Almighty tokeep you alive until the coming ofRamadan:
It was narrated on the authority of Anas ibn Maalikthat when the month
ofRajabcomes, the Prophet,, said:"O Allaah, bless Rajab and Sha'baan
for us, and let us live till the coming of Ramadan."]Ahmad and
At-Tabaraani[ For that reason, Ibn Rajabsays,"The hearts of the
believers long for the coming of this month and feel pained at its
departure."
Thank Allaah The Almighty for witnessing this month:
Obeying Allaah The Almighty is the greatest blessing Allaah The
Almighty grants the slave. The Prophet,, said:"Ramadan hascome to you.
It is a blessed month that Allaah The Almighty prescribed fasting
during it and wherein the gates of heavens areopen, the gates of Hell
are shut, and the rebellious devils are chained. Allaah placed a
night, which is better than one thousand months, in this month.The
Muslim who misses the goodness of this night is the real
loser."]A-Nasaa'i and Al-Bayhaqi[
Ibn Rajabsays,"This Hadeeth is the basis for congratulating Muslims on
the coming of Ramadan. Why should it not be when the believer is given
the glad tidings of opening the gatesof Paradise? Why should it not
bewhen the sinner is given the gladtidings of closing the gates of
Hell? Why should it not be when the wise man is given the glad tidings
of a period of time in which the devils are chained?"
In his bookAl-Athkaar,Imaam An-Nawawisays,"It is recommended for the
person who experiences an obvious favor or is protected from an
obvious curse that he prostrates in gratefulness to Allaah The
Almighty or praises Him duly."
Rejoice at the special virtues of the month:
The virtues of the month ofRamadaninclude opening the gates of
Paradise, closing the gates of Hell, forgiveness of sins, showering
with mercy, and granting safety from Hellfire. Here is an amazing
story teachingus that a single month ofRamadanmay unimaginably raisea
person's degree in Paradise.
It was narrated on the authority of Talhah ibn 'Ubaydillaahthat there
were two men from the tribe of Baliyy who came to the Prophet,, and
embraced Islam at the same time. One of them was more active in
worshipthan the other, and it happened that the active one was
martyredin a battle and the other one lived for one more year.
Talhahsaid, "I saw in my dream that I was at the gate of Paradiseand
the two men were standing there. Someone came out and gave permission
to the man who lived for one more year to enter Paradise, then gave
permission to the martyr. He then returned to me and told me to go
back forpermission had not been given tome yet."
In the morning, Talhahrelated to the people what he saw and they were
surprised to know this. When the news of thisstory reached the
Prophet,hesaid:"Why should you be surprised?"They said, "O Messenger
of Allaah, the man who was martyred was more active in worship, but
the other one entered Paradise before him." The Prophetsaid:"Did he
not live for one more year?"They answered in the affirmative."Did he
not fast for one more Ramadan,"the Prophetcontinued,"and prayed
such-and-such a number of prostrations in this year?"They answered in
the affirmative. The Prophetsaid:"The difference between them is equal
to the distance between the heavens and the earth."]Al-Munthiri: Hasan
and Ibn Hibbaan:Saheeh[
Determine to give up sins and repent
Ramadanis considered the actualbeginning of the year because the deeds
of the year are submitted in the month ofSha'baan. In that
sense,Ramadanmarks the beginning ofa new year after the submission of
deeds. Therefore, the Muslim needs to turn over a new leaf with Allaah
The Almighty, and this requires repentance from all sins, giving them
up, and not returning to them.Ramadanis the month of repentance, and
if aperson misses this opportunity, when will he repent? Allaah The
Almighty Says )what means(:
*.}And turn to Allaah in repentance, all of you, O believers, that you
might succeed.{]Quran 24:31[
*.}Oyou who have believed, repent to Allaah with sincere
repentance.{]Quran 66:8[
O Allaah, I repent to You from thecountless sins I have committed, and
I complain to You from the misdeeds and faults that afflict me!

Ramadan Articles - Reaping the benefits of Ramadan

One of the virtuous callers to Islam told me the story of a young man
who had not reached seventeen years of age. That young man had a great
zeal forDa'wah)calling to Islam( and waspreoccupied with it all the
time. He used to prepare himself to perform good and righteous deeds
with the advent ofRamadan. For example, he used to stand by the side
of a street before the time ofIftaar)time of breaking the fast( for
over a quarter of an hour and then he would go to the areas where
there were frequent traffic jams and distribute dates and cakes among
the fasting people to break their fast with. He also used to
distributeDa'wahrelatedpamphlets and periodicals that encourage the
spread of the religion, virtuous conduct and noble morals. He used to
do this for many years with a bright smile and a face shining with the
light of faith.
One day while doing this righteous act at the traffic light, a
speeding car hit him and killed him. He died while he was fastingand
providing fasting people with something to break their fast, pleasing
them and their children and makingDa'wahto Allaah The Almighty. What
an excellent deed! May Allaah accept him in Paradise!
This story affected me and reminded me of theHadeeth)narration(
narrated by Anaswhere the Messenger of Allaah,, said:"'When Allaah
wants good for a slave, He employs him.'He was asked, 'How does
Heemploy him, O Messenger of Allaah?' The Messenger of
Allaahreplied:'He grants him success to do what is good before he
dies.'"]At-Tirmithi:Hasan Saheeh[
There is an enormous difference between that young callerand many
Muslims worldwide who witness manyRamadanswithout seizing the great
and rare opportunities available therein. There is a great difference
between those who utilize their time by performing acts of obedience
and those who waste it by committing vices.
If we were to think long and hard and use our minds in order to
reflect upon how to seize the opportunities and reap the benefits of
this month, we wouldno doubt come up with numerous ideas and means.
Consequently, we would realize the value of this great month andits
multiple blessings that we arenot aware of.
Many channels of good deeds, means of reforming thoughts
andDa'wahprojects could be implemented in this noble month. Thus, we
would lead the way of righteous people in utilizing their time in a
way that benefits ourUmmah)Muslim nation( and society.
Why isRamadana chance of a lifetime?
If we think deeply about our livesand time, we would have no doubt
that in each second and minute we live there are many chances that
never return again. The long line of days that we spend joyfully
toiling to reach a beloved goal are surely struck off from our life
forever, whether realize this or not. There is no escape from Allaah
The Almighty except by returning to Him, utilizing our time in doing
good deeds and abandoning frivolous play and wasting time that will
culminate and cause regret and bitterness later on in life. Some
people will say upon death as Allaah The Almighty Says )what
means(:}…until, when death comes to one of them, he says,"My Lord,
send me backthat I might do righteousness in that which I left
behind."{]Quran 23:99[
One of the greatest chances, rather the most comprehensive chance and
the most important of all opportunities inRamadan,is that of
worshipping Allaah The Almighty, fulfilling His rights, resorting to
Him, and beseechingHim. This is the real great chance in life and the
Universe, and any other chance is but a branch of this great origin,
from which all other aspects of our deeds, worship and dealings stem.
Seize your chances
Different people receiveRamadanin various ways. Some receive it by
indulging in play and means ofentertainment, some receive it
byconsuming food and drinks, others receive it by scheduling time to
follow programs and soap operas on TV, and so on. These are the ways
of the heedless people who are unaware of the merits, virtues and
importance of the rites ofRamadan.
However, the believers who hasten to do good deeds receiveRamadanby
hurrying to do righteous deeds and avoiding evildeeds, bearing in mind
the verse in which Allaah The Almighty Says)what means(:}And hasten to
forgiveness from your Lord and a garden as wide as the heavens and the
earth, prepared for the righteous{]Quran 3:133[
Those who hasten to do good deeds and seize opportunities usually look
forward to and long for all the opportunities for performing acts of
righteousnessand the ways leading to the pleasure of Allaah The
Almighty, seeking His satisfaction and fearing His painful punishment.
They know for sure that Allaah The Almighty urges His slaves to hasten
to do goodness. Allaah The Almighty Says )what means(:
*.}So race to ]all that is[ good.{]Quran 2:148[
*.}O you who have believed, when ]the Athaan[ is called for the prayer
on the day of Jumu'ah ]Friday[, then proceed to the remembrance of
Allaah{]Quran 62:9[
Moreover, they know that they contradict the Quranic methodology if
they hasten and race towards worldly gains. Allaah The Almighty Says
)what means(:
*.}so walk among its slopes and eat of His provision{]Quran 67:15[
*.}do not forget your share of the world{]Quran 28:77[
The believers notice that the command to hasten came in the context of
doing good deeds andseeking the reward of the Hereafter, whereas there
is no hastening or racing mentioned inthe context of seeking worldly
temporal gains. Therefore, AllaahThe Almighty urges hastening in
seeking the Hereafter and remembering Him. On the other hand, in the
context of worldly matters He Says )what means(:}So walk among its
slopes{]Quran 67:15[ There is a significant difference between
hastening or racing and walking. Therefore, Allaah The Almighty made
hastening and racing the basis of the slave's deed to gain the reward
of Allaah The Almighty in the Hereafter. On the other hand, Allaah The
Almighty Says about the worldly affairs)what means(:}do not forget
yourshare of the world{]Quran 28:77[
When we reconsider these verses, it becomes clear that "walking" is
used in the context of seeking worldly life because it is an instinct
in humans and these natural instincts do not need special commandments
or require arousing of the desire to perform them . However, people
are addressed by theSharee'ah)Islamic legislation( to seek the reward
of the Hereafter -- an act that necessitates hastening. Human beings
do not need encouragement to be enthusiastic about pursuing gains in
the worldly life unlike good deeds which need encouragement.
The best and most worthwhile manner to seize the opportunities
presented byRamadanis by fulfilling the rightsof Allaah The Almighty.

Ramadan Articles - Ten Ways to Receive Ramadan

Muslims should not neglect the seasons of worship; rather, they must
be among the first to excel in and compete in them. Allaah The
Almighty Says )what means(:}So for this let the competitors
compete.{]Quran 83:26[
So, we must try our best to receive the month ofRamadanin the
following recommended ways:
The first way:Supplicate Allaah The Almighty to keep you alive and in
good health untilRamadancomes so that you will be able to actively
worship AllaahThe Almighty. It was narrated on the authority of Anas
ibn Maalikthat when the month ofRajabcame, the Prophet,, said:"O
Allaah, bless Rajab and Sha'baan for us, and let us live tillthe
coming of Ramadan."]Ahmad and At-Tabaraani[ The righteous predecessors
used to supplicate Allaah The Almighty tolet them live until the
coming ofRamadanand to accept it from them. At the sighting of the new
moon, supplicate Allaah The Almighty saying:"O Allaah, let this moon
come to us with security and faith; with safety and Islam; and
guidance to what You love and approve. My Lord and your Lord is
Allaah."]At-Tirmithi, Ad-Daarimi, and Ibn Hibbaan:Saheeh[
The second way:Thanking Allaah The Almighty for attending this month.
In his bookAl-Athkaar,Imaam An-Nawawisays,"It is recommended for the
person who experiences an obvious favor or is protected from an
obvious curse that he prostrates in gratefulness to Allaah The
Almighty or praises Him duly."Among the greatest blessings Allaah The
Almighty grants the slave is guiding him to obedienceand worship.
WhenRamadancomes and the Muslim is in good health, this is a great
blessing worthy of thankfulness and it requires the praise of Allaah
The Almighty Who bestows it. All perfect and continuous praise be to
Allaah The Almighty as suits the majesty of His Face and His Great
Authority.
The third way:Happiness and joy.The Prophet,, was authentically
reported to have congratulated his Companions onthe coming ofRamadan.
The Prophet,, said:"Ramadan hascome to you. It is a blessed month
during which Allaah The Almighty Prescribed fasting and in this month
the gates of the heavens are open and the gates of Hell are
shut…"]Ahmad[ Our righteous predecessors, the Companions of the
Prophet,, and those who followed them in the best way, used to take
great care of the month ofRamadanand were happy with its arrival.
There is no happiness greater than receiving the news of the approach
ofRamadan, the season of blessings and the descent of mercy.
The fourth way:Planning in advance how to benefit
fromRamadan.Unfortunately, many people -- even practicing Muslims--
draw detailed plans for worldlyaffairs of this life, whereas only a
few of them plan for the affairs of the Hereafter. This results from
the lack of awareness aboutthe mission of the believer in thislife, or
forgetting or deliberately ignoring that there are numerous chances
for the Muslim with Allaah The Almighty and important periods of time
totrain oneself in to be firm in this regard. Planning for the affairs
ofthe Hereafter includes planning to investRamadanin acts of worship.
A Muslim must put a practical plan into action that spans the days and
nights ofRamadanin obedience to Allaah The Almighty. This message is
supposed to help the person spend the duration of Ramadan in obeying
Allaah The Almighty – Allaah willing.
The fifth way:Beingsincerely determined to be among the believers who
achieve success and felicity inRamadanand fill itsdays with righteous
deeds. If a Muslim is true to Allaah The Almighty, He will fulfill His
promise to him, help him in worship, and facilitate the ways of
goodness for him. Allaah The Almighty Says )what means(:}If they had
been true to Allaah, it would have been better for them.{]Quran 47:21[
The sixth way:Learning and understanding theFiqhrulings related to
fasting inRamadan.The believer has to worship Allaah The Almighty with
knowledge, and is not excused for his ignorance of the obligations
Allaah The Almighty prescribed for people. This includes fasting
inRamadan. TheMuslim is obliged to learn the issues and rulings
related to fasting before the coming ofRamadanso that his fasting will
be correct and accepted by AllaahThe Almighty Who Says )what
means(:}So ask the people of themessage if you do not know.{]Quran
21:7[
The seventh way:We have to receive this month with the decision to
give up sins and misdeeds, sincerely repent of them all, stop them,
and not commit them again.Ramadanis the month of repentance and if a
person misses this chance, when will he repent? Allaah The Almighty
Says )what means(:}And turn to Allaah in repentance, all of you, O
believers, that you might succeed.{]Quran 24:31[
The eighth way:Being spiritually and psychologically prepared.This
could be done by reading books and articles, and listening to
beneficial lectures and discourses which highlight the virtues and
rulings of fasting, so that the soul is prepared for worship in this
month. The Prophet,, used to prepare the souls of his Companions to
utilize this meritorious month by saying on the last day
ofSha'baan:"Ramadan has come toyou…"]Ahmad and An-Nasaa'i[
The ninth way:Prepare oneself well for calling to Allaah The Almighty
inRamadan. This can be done in the following ways:
1- Preparing short sermons and lessons to be given in the
neighbourhood Masjid if possible.
2- Distributing some booklets and articles of admonition and
jurisprudence related toRamadanto the worshipers and people in your
area.
3- Preparing some gifts forRamadan,which could be envelopes containing
two tapes and a booklet marked "Gift forRamadan."
4- Reminding people of our duties towards the poor and needy and
giving them charity andZakaah)obligatory charity(.
The tenth way:We receive the month of Ramadan by opening a bright new page with:
a- Allaah The Almighty by sincerely repenting to Him.
b- The Messenger of Allaah,, by obeying his orders and avoiding what
he prohibited and warned against.
c- Parents, relatives, and one's spouse and children by being dutiful
to them and maintaining ties with them
d- Society by being a righteous and useful person. The Prophet,,
said:"The best of people is the one who benefits them most."
This is how the Muslim receives the month ofRamadanlike a barren land
which is in need of water, a patient when he sees the doctor and the
lover when hereceives his long-awaited absent loved one.
O Allaah, Keep us alive till the coming ofRamadanand accept itfrom us!
Indeed, You are The Hearing The Knowing!

Ramadan Articles - When the Night Equals a Thousand

It was narrated that in the days that Musa (alayhis-salaam) wandered
with Bani Israa'eel in the desert an intense drought befell them.
Together, they raised their hands towards the heavens praying for the
blessed rain to come. Then, to theastonishment of Musa
(alayhis-salaam) and all those watching, the few scattered clouds that
were in the sky vanished,the heat poured down, and the drought
intensified.
It was revealed to Musa that there was a sinner amongst the tribe of
BaniIsraa'eel who had disobeyed Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) for more
than forty years of his life. "Let him separate himself from
thecongregation," Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) told Musa
(alayhis-salaam). "Only then shall Ishower you all with rain." Musa
(alayhis-salaam) then called out to the throngs of humanity, "There is
a person amongst us who has disobeyed Allah for forty years. Let him
separate himself from thecongregation and only then shall we be
rescued from the drought." That man, waited, looking left and right,
hoping that someone else would step forward, but no one did. Sweat
poured forth from his brow and he knew that he was the one.
The man knew that if he stayed amongst the congregation all would die
of thirst and that if hestepped forward he would be humiliated for all
eternity.
He raised his hands with a sincerity he had never known before, with a
humility he had never tasted, and as tears poured down on both cheeks
he said: "O Allah, have mercy on me! O Allah, hide my sins! O Allah,
forgive me!" As Musa (alayhis-salaam) and the people of Bani Israa'eel
awaited for the sinner to step forward, the clouds hugged the sky and
the rain poured. Musa (alayhis-salaam) asked Allah (Subhanahu wa
ta'ala), "O Allah, you blessed us with rain eventhough the sinner did
not come forward." And Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) replied, "O Musa,
itis for the repentance of that very person that I blessed all of Bani
Israa'eel with water." Musa (alayhis-salaam), wanting to know who this
blessed man was, asked, "Show him to me O Allah!" Allah (Subhanahu wa
ta'ala) replied, "O Musa, I hid his sins for forty years, do you think
that after his repentance I shall exposehim?"
Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) revealed the Qur'an in the most blessed
month; the month of Ramadan, the month in which the Qur'an was sent
down.
On the most blessed night, the Grand night: Laylatul Qadr;"Verily, we
revealed the Qur'an on the night of Qadr."
Ibn Jareer narrates, on the authority of Mujaahidthat there was a man
from Bani Israa'eel who used to spend the night in prayer. Then in the
morning he would fight the enemy in the Way of Allah during the day,
until the evening and he did this for a thousand months.
And so Allah revealed the Surah:"Verily, We sent it down in the night
of Al-Qadr"until the verse"The night of Al-Qadr is better than a
thousand months."That is, standingin prayer on that night is better
than the actions ofthat man.
Sufyaan ath-Thawree reports, on the authority of Mujaahid (also), that
the night of Al-Qadr being better than a thousand months means that
the good deeds performed on it, fasting on it, and standing in prayer
on it are better than a thousand months' good deeds, prayers and
fasting. (Narrated by Ibn Jareer)
It is reported from Abu Hurairah that he said:"When the month of
Ramadan came, the Messenger of Allah said:'The month of Ramadan has
come, a blessed month in which Allah has made it obligatory for you to
fast; in it the gatesof Paradise are opened and the gates of Hell are
closed and the devils are chained. In it is a night better than a
thousand months, whoever loses the benefit of it has lost something
irreplaceable.'"(Narratedby Imam Ahmad and An-Nasaa'i).
It is reported on the authority of Abu Hurairah, that Allah's
Messenger (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) said:"Whoever stood in prayer
on the night of Al-Qadr, in faith and hoping for a reward from Allah,
he will have all of his previous sins forgiven."(Narrated by
Al-Bukhari and Muslim).
This one night surpasses the value of 30,000 nights. The sincere
believer who worries dayand night about his sins and phases of neglect
in his life patiently awaits the onset of Ramadan. During it he hopes
to be forgiven by Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) for past sins, knowing
that the Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) promised that all who
bear down during the last ten days shall have all their sins forgiven.
To achieve this, the believer remembers the Prophet's (Sallallahu
alaihi wa sallam) advice in different sayings wherein he used words
like "seek", "pursue","search" and "look hard" for Laylatul Qadr.
Laylatul Qadr is the most blessed night. A person who misses it has
indeed missed a great amount ofgood. The Mu'min should search for it
in the last ten nights of Ramadan, passing the nights in worship and
obedience.
For those who catch the opportunity, their gift is that of past sins wiped away.
The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) illustrated for
us some of the things we should be doing on this Grand Night. From his
blessed Sunnah we find the following:
Praying Qiyaam (night prayer):
It is recommended to make a long qiyaam prayer during the nights on
which Laylatul Qadr could fall. This is indicated in many ahadeeth,
such as"Whoever stands (in qiyaam) in Laylatul Qadr [and it is
facilitated for him] out of faith and expectation (of Allah's reward),
will have all of his previous sins forgiven."[Al-Bukhari and Muslim;
the addition"and it is facilitated for him" is recorded by Ahmad from
the report of'Ubaadah Bin as-Samit; it means that he is permitted to
be among the sincere worshippers during that blessed night.]
Making Supplications:
It is also recommended tomake extensive supplication on this night.
'A'ishah reported that she asked Allah's Messenger (Sallallahu alaihi
wa sallam) "O Messenger of Allah! If I knew which night is Laylatul
Qadr, what should I say during it?" And he instructed her to say:
"Allahumma innaka `afuwwun tuhibbul `afwa fa`fu `annee - (O Allah! You
are forgiving, and you love forgiveness.So forgive me)."[An authentic
Hadith recorded by Ahmad, Ibn Majah and at-Tirmidhi.]
Abandoning Worldly Pleasures for the Sake of Worship:
It is further recommended to spend more time in worship during the
nights on which Laylatul Qadr is likely to fall. This calls for
abandoning many worldly pleasures in order to secure the time and
thoughts solely for worshipping Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala).
'A'ishah reported: "When the (last) ten started, the Prophet
(Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) would tightenhis izaar (i.e. he stayed
away from his wives in order to have more time for worship), spend the
whole night awake (in prayer) and wake up his family." [Al-Bukhari and
Muslim]
And she said: "Allah's Messenger (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) used to
exert more (in worship) on the last ten than on other nights."
[Muslim]
Have we estimated Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) correctly?
The opportunity of Laylatul Qadr is coming inthe next few days. Life
is about people that take advantage of their opportunities to win the
love of Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala), and this is indeed one of those
chances.
Abu Dah Daah was one ofthose who found an opportunity and won that
which is greater than the heavens and theearth. An adult companion of
the Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) cultivated his garden next
to the property of an orphan. The orphan claimed that a specific palm
tree was on his property and thus belonged to him. The companion
rejected the claim and off to the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu
alaihi wa sallam) went the orphan boy to complain. With hisjustness,
the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) measured the two
gardens and found that the palm tree did indeed belong to the
companion. The orphan erupted crying. Seeing this, the Prophet
(Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) offered the companion,"would you give
him the palm tree and to you is a palm tree in Jannah?"However,
thecompanion in his disbelief that an orphan would complain to the
Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) missed the opportunity and went
away angry.
But someone else saw the opportunity, Abu DahDaah - radi Allahu 'anhu.
He went to the Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) and asked, "Ya
Rasul Allah, if I buy the tree from him and give it to the orphan
shall I havethat tree in Jannah?" The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu
alaihi wa sallam) replied,"Yes."
Abu Dah Daah chased after the companion and asked, "Would you sell
that tree to me for my entire garden?" The companion answered,"Take it
for there is no good in a tree that I was complained to the Prophet
about."
Immediately, Abu Dah Daah went home and found his wife and children
playing in the garden. "Leave the garden!" shouted Abu Dah Daah,
"we've sold it to Allah! We've sold it to Allah!" Some of his children
had dates in their hand and he snached the dates from them and threw
them back into the garden."We've sold it to Allah!"
When Abu Dah Daah was later martyred in the battle of Uhud, Rasul
Allah (Sallallahu alaihi wasallam) stood over his slain body and
remarked,"How many shady palm trees does Abu Dah Daah now have in
paradise?"
What did Abu Dah Daah lose? Dates? Bushes? Dirt?What did he gain? He
gained a Jannah whose expanse is the heavens and the earth.
Abu Dah Daah did not miss his opportunity, andI pray to Allah
(Subhanahu wa ta'ala) that we do not miss our opportunity of standing
to Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) on Laylatul Qadr.
Dear brothers and sisters,we do not obey, worship and revere Allah
(Subhanahu wa ta'ala) in a way befitting of His Majesty.
Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) revealed:
"No just estimate have they made of Allah, such as is due to Him. On
the Day of Resurrection the whole of the earth will be but His
handful, and the heavens will be rolledup in His right hand: Glory to
Him! High is He above the partners they attribute to Him."(Surat
al-An'aam, Ayat 91).
Everything that we have belongs to Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala). When
someone dies we say,Inna lillaahi wa inna ilayhi raaji'oon, Indeed to
Allah we belong and indeed to Him we shall return. This is not a
supplication just for when a soul is lost. It is a supplication for
every calamity that befalls a believer, even if his sandal were to
tear. Why? Because everythingbelongs to Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala)
and everything shall come back to him. Sit andtry to count the
blessings Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) has bestowed upon you. Have you
ever tried to count stars?
"And He giveth you of all that ye ask for. But if ye count the favors
of Allah, never will ye be able to number them. Verily, man is given
up to injustice and ingratitude."
(Surat Ibrahim, Ayat 34).
We have not understood the weight of this Qur'an that we rest on our
high shelves, this Noble book that was sent to give life to the dead.
For even if our hearts were as solid as rock they would have crumbled
to the ground in fear and hope of Allah's (Subhanahu wa ta'ala)
punishment and Mercy. Could it be that our hearts are harder than that
mountain?
"Had We sent down this Qur'an on a mountain, verily, thou wouldst
haveseen it humble itself and split asunder in fear of Allah."(Surat
al-Hashr, Ayat 21).
Dear brothers and sisters,as you fill the Masajid for Qiyamul Layl in
the last ten nights of Ramadan, remember what Allah (Subhanahu wa
ta'ala) wants you to know:
"Know ye that Allah is strict in punishment and that Allah is
Oft-forgiving,Most Merciful."
There shall be a night, some night in your life that you shall awaken
in Jannah or Hell fire. Anas ibn Malik, on his deathbed, prayed to
Allah, (Subhanahu wa ta'ala), "O Allah, protect from a night whose
morning brings a journeyto hell fire." Think about that morning.
Peace shall descend on Laylatul Qadr until the dawn. It may be that
you shall leave the Masjid after Fajr one day soon forgiven by Allah,
Glorious and Most High.

Ramadan Articles - When the Night Equals a Thousand

It was narrated that in the days that Musa (alayhis-salaam) wandered
with Bani Israa'eel in the desert an intense drought befell them.
Together, they raised their hands towards the heavens praying for the
blessed rain to come. Then, to theastonishment of Musa
(alayhis-salaam) and all those watching, the few scattered clouds that
were in the sky vanished,the heat poured down, and the drought
intensified.
It was revealed to Musa that there was a sinner amongst the tribe of
BaniIsraa'eel who had disobeyed Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) for more
than forty years of his life. "Let him separate himself from
thecongregation," Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) told Musa
(alayhis-salaam). "Only then shall Ishower you all with rain." Musa
(alayhis-salaam) then called out to the throngs of humanity, "There is
a person amongst us who has disobeyed Allah for forty years. Let him
separate himself from thecongregation and only then shall we be
rescued from the drought." That man, waited, looking left and right,
hoping that someone else would step forward, but no one did. Sweat
poured forth from his brow and he knew that he was the one.
The man knew that if he stayed amongst the congregation all would die
of thirst and that if hestepped forward he would be humiliated for all
eternity.
He raised his hands with a sincerity he had never known before, with a
humility he had never tasted, and as tears poured down on both cheeks
he said: "O Allah, have mercy on me! O Allah, hide my sins! O Allah,
forgive me!" As Musa (alayhis-salaam) and the people of Bani Israa'eel
awaited for the sinner to step forward, the clouds hugged the sky and
the rain poured. Musa (alayhis-salaam) asked Allah (Subhanahu wa
ta'ala), "O Allah, you blessed us with rain eventhough the sinner did
not come forward." And Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) replied, "O Musa,
itis for the repentance of that very person that I blessed all of Bani
Israa'eel with water." Musa (alayhis-salaam), wanting to know who this
blessed man was, asked, "Show him to me O Allah!" Allah (Subhanahu wa
ta'ala) replied, "O Musa, I hid his sins for forty years, do you think
that after his repentance I shall exposehim?"
Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) revealed the Qur'an in the most blessed
month; the month of Ramadan, the month in which the Qur'an was sent
down.
On the most blessed night, the Grand night: Laylatul Qadr;"Verily, we
revealed the Qur'an on the night of Qadr."
Ibn Jareer narrates, on the authority of Mujaahidthat there was a man
from Bani Israa'eel who used to spend the night in prayer. Then in the
morning he would fight the enemy in the Way of Allah during the day,
until the evening and he did this for a thousand months.
And so Allah revealed the Surah:"Verily, We sent it down in the night
of Al-Qadr"until the verse"The night of Al-Qadr is better than a
thousand months."That is, standingin prayer on that night is better
than the actions ofthat man.
Sufyaan ath-Thawree reports, on the authority of Mujaahid (also), that
the night of Al-Qadr being better than a thousand months means that
the good deeds performed on it, fasting on it, and standing in prayer
on it are better than a thousand months' good deeds, prayers and
fasting. (Narrated by Ibn Jareer)
It is reported from Abu Hurairah that he said:"When the month of
Ramadan came, the Messenger of Allah said:'The month of Ramadan has
come, a blessed month in which Allah has made it obligatory for you to
fast; in it the gatesof Paradise are opened and the gates of Hell are
closed and the devils are chained. In it is a night better than a
thousand months, whoever loses the benefit of it has lost something
irreplaceable.'"(Narratedby Imam Ahmad and An-Nasaa'i).
It is reported on the authority of Abu Hurairah, that Allah's
Messenger (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) said:"Whoever stood in prayer
on the night of Al-Qadr, in faith and hoping for a reward from Allah,
he will have all of his previous sins forgiven."(Narrated by
Al-Bukhari and Muslim).
This one night surpasses the value of 30,000 nights. The sincere
believer who worries dayand night about his sins and phases of neglect
in his life patiently awaits the onset of Ramadan. During it he hopes
to be forgiven by Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) for past sins, knowing
that the Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) promised that all who
bear down during the last ten days shall have all their sins forgiven.
To achieve this, the believer remembers the Prophet's (Sallallahu
alaihi wa sallam) advice in different sayings wherein he used words
like "seek", "pursue","search" and "look hard" for Laylatul Qadr.
Laylatul Qadr is the most blessed night. A person who misses it has
indeed missed a great amount ofgood. The Mu'min should search for it
in the last ten nights of Ramadan, passing the nights in worship and
obedience.
For those who catch the opportunity, their gift is that of past sins wiped away.
The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) illustrated for
us some of the things we should be doing on this Grand Night. From his
blessed Sunnah we find the following:
Praying Qiyaam (night prayer):
It is recommended to make a long qiyaam prayer during the nights on
which Laylatul Qadr could fall. This is indicated in many ahadeeth,
such as"Whoever stands (in qiyaam) in Laylatul Qadr [and it is
facilitated for him] out of faith and expectation (of Allah's reward),
will have all of his previous sins forgiven."[Al-Bukhari and Muslim;
the addition"and it is facilitated for him" is recorded by Ahmad from
the report of'Ubaadah Bin as-Samit; it means that he is permitted to
be among the sincere worshippers during that blessed night.]
Making Supplications:
It is also recommended tomake extensive supplication on this night.
'A'ishah reported that she asked Allah's Messenger (Sallallahu alaihi
wa sallam) "O Messenger of Allah! If I knew which night is Laylatul
Qadr, what should I say during it?" And he instructed her to say:
"Allahumma innaka `afuwwun tuhibbul `afwa fa`fu `annee - (O Allah! You
are forgiving, and you love forgiveness.So forgive me)."[An authentic
Hadith recorded by Ahmad, Ibn Majah and at-Tirmidhi.]
Abandoning Worldly Pleasures for the Sake of Worship:
It is further recommended to spend more time in worship during the
nights on which Laylatul Qadr is likely to fall. This calls for
abandoning many worldly pleasures in order to secure the time and
thoughts solely for worshipping Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala).
'A'ishah reported: "When the (last) ten started, the Prophet
(Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) would tightenhis izaar (i.e. he stayed
away from his wives in order to have more time for worship), spend the
whole night awake (in prayer) and wake up his family." [Al-Bukhari and
Muslim]
And she said: "Allah's Messenger (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) used to
exert more (in worship) on the last ten than on other nights."
[Muslim]
Have we estimated Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) correctly?
The opportunity of Laylatul Qadr is coming inthe next few days. Life
is about people that take advantage of their opportunities to win the
love of Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala), and this is indeed one of those
chances.
Abu Dah Daah was one ofthose who found an opportunity and won that
which is greater than the heavens and theearth. An adult companion of
the Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) cultivated his garden next
to the property of an orphan. The orphan claimed that a specific palm
tree was on his property and thus belonged to him. The companion
rejected the claim and off to the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu
alaihi wa sallam) went the orphan boy to complain. With hisjustness,
the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) measured the two
gardens and found that the palm tree did indeed belong to the
companion. The orphan erupted crying. Seeing this, the Prophet
(Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) offered the companion,"would you give
him the palm tree and to you is a palm tree in Jannah?"However,
thecompanion in his disbelief that an orphan would complain to the
Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) missed the opportunity and went
away angry.
But someone else saw the opportunity, Abu DahDaah - radi Allahu 'anhu.
He went to the Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) and asked, "Ya
Rasul Allah, if I buy the tree from him and give it to the orphan
shall I havethat tree in Jannah?" The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu
alaihi wa sallam) replied,"Yes."
Abu Dah Daah chased after the companion and asked, "Would you sell
that tree to me for my entire garden?" The companion answered,"Take it
for there is no good in a tree that I was complained to the Prophet
about."
Immediately, Abu Dah Daah went home and found his wife and children
playing in the garden. "Leave the garden!" shouted Abu Dah Daah,
"we've sold it to Allah! We've sold it to Allah!" Some of his children
had dates in their hand and he snached the dates from them and threw
them back into the garden."We've sold it to Allah!"
When Abu Dah Daah was later martyred in the battle of Uhud, Rasul
Allah (Sallallahu alaihi wasallam) stood over his slain body and
remarked,"How many shady palm trees does Abu Dah Daah now have in
paradise?"
What did Abu Dah Daah lose? Dates? Bushes? Dirt?What did he gain? He
gained a Jannah whose expanse is the heavens and the earth.
Abu Dah Daah did not miss his opportunity, andI pray to Allah
(Subhanahu wa ta'ala) that we do not miss our opportunity of standing
to Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) on Laylatul Qadr.
Dear brothers and sisters,we do not obey, worship and revere Allah
(Subhanahu wa ta'ala) in a way befitting of His Majesty.
Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) revealed:
"No just estimate have they made of Allah, such as is due to Him. On
the Day of Resurrection the whole of the earth will be but His
handful, and the heavens will be rolledup in His right hand: Glory to
Him! High is He above the partners they attribute to Him."(Surat
al-An'aam, Ayat 91).
Everything that we have belongs to Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala). When
someone dies we say,Inna lillaahi wa inna ilayhi raaji'oon, Indeed to
Allah we belong and indeed to Him we shall return. This is not a
supplication just for when a soul is lost. It is a supplication for
every calamity that befalls a believer, even if his sandal were to
tear. Why? Because everythingbelongs to Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala)
and everything shall come back to him. Sit andtry to count the
blessings Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala) has bestowed upon you. Have you
ever tried to count stars?
"And He giveth you of all that ye ask for. But if ye count the favors
of Allah, never will ye be able to number them. Verily, man is given
up to injustice and ingratitude."
(Surat Ibrahim, Ayat 34).
We have not understood the weight of this Qur'an that we rest on our
high shelves, this Noble book that was sent to give life to the dead.
For even if our hearts were as solid as rock they would have crumbled
to the ground in fear and hope of Allah's (Subhanahu wa ta'ala)
punishment and Mercy. Could it be that our hearts are harder than that
mountain?
"Had We sent down this Qur'an on a mountain, verily, thou wouldst
haveseen it humble itself and split asunder in fear of Allah."(Surat
al-Hashr, Ayat 21).
Dear brothers and sisters,as you fill the Masajid for Qiyamul Layl in
the last ten nights of Ramadan, remember what Allah (Subhanahu wa
ta'ala) wants you to know:
"Know ye that Allah is strict in punishment and that Allah is
Oft-forgiving,Most Merciful."
There shall be a night, some night in your life that you shall awaken
in Jannah or Hell fire. Anas ibn Malik, on his deathbed, prayed to
Allah, (Subhanahu wa ta'ala), "O Allah, protect from a night whose
morning brings a journeyto hell fire." Think about that morning.
Peace shall descend on Laylatul Qadr until the dawn. It may be that
you shall leave the Masjid after Fajr one day soon forgiven by Allah,
Glorious and Most High.

Ramadan Articles - Laylat al-Qadr: The Night of Power

Let's analyze the significance of Laylat al-Qadr with commentary,
(tafseer) on chapter 97 of Al-Qur'an,Al-Qadr(the Night of Power).
Al-Qadr
This chapter (surah) was revealed in Makkah, and its basic theme is
honoring the revelation of this blessed book, the Holy Qur`an. The
Night of Power or honor is a special gift only to the community
(Ummah) of Islam. The night is one which even the angels in the
heavens see as worthy of witnessing. The night is so rich with
holiness, as the night when good deeds are returned, and is equal to a
thousand months in thesight of Allah.
Occasion Of Revelation
In a report by Abi Hatim and Al-Wahidi, by way of Mujahid, the
Messenger (saas) mentioned that there was a man among the Israelites
who devoted his life to the cause of Allah for a thousand months. The
companions were amazed and impressed, but were saddened because they
knew there would be no way that they could reach this status of
devotion. So Allah (SWT) revealed this surah to inform them that He
had just blessed this Ummah with the Night of Honor, which is equal to
a thousand months.
"We have indeed revealed it, (Al-Qur`an) in the Night of Power."
(Al-Qur`an 97:1)
There are several points pertaining to the meaning of this verse:
The meaning and the useof the pronoun "We" is a style in Al-Qur`an
that when the Creator (SWT) ismentioned as a pronoun,He is referred to
by "We" or "I," as is evidenced in this surah. Elsewhere He said,
"Behold, thy Lord said to the angels: `I will create a
vicegerent..."(Al-Qur`an, 2:30). There isno problem when Allah uses
the pronoun "I" to refer to His Exalted Self, but when he uses "We"
the explanation becomes warranted because it cannot be perceived to
indicate plural. There is unanimity among the scholars that "We"
indicates respect and exaltation for the Creatorand Cherisher of all
the worlds, whose greatness is incomprehensibly vast and beyond our
imagination.
Or, it is referring to Allah (SWT) and the angels who carry out his
words to one all, in every level of His dominion. It cannot mean
plural, or more than One Allah, for that would necessitate dropping in
ranks, the absoluteness, and the powers of each competing deity. If
each is capable of being absolute, each would have been independent
from the other and the idea that each deity can be independent from
theother, is evidence that none is absolute. This is inconceivable of
Allah (SWT) therefore, "We" cannot mean anything but respect and
exaltation of the One andOnly.
"...Have Indeed Revealed It In the Night of Power" (Al-Qur`an 97:1)
There is again unanimity among the commentators that "it" refers
toAl-Qur'an, meaning "We revealed"Al-Qur'anin the Night of Power. He
(SWT) did not mentionAl-Qur'anexplicitly because to refertoAl-Qur'anby
the pronoun implies a certain divine uniqueness of this book, as well
as greatness and honor that may not be attained if the
wordAl-Qur'anwas used instead. First, it ascribed the revelation
ofAl-Qur'anto Himself, and not to anyone else. Second, referring
toAl-Qur'anby pronoun is an indication that the revelation of this
book was not a secret that no one knew about. Its revelation was an
event widely known to all during the time of Muhammad (saas) and
after, guarding against anyone who may like to challenge it or claim
any honor of teaching Muhammad (saas)Al-Qur'an. Third, the statement
also meant to honor and memorialize the time period in
whichAl-Qur'anwas revealed.
By revealingAl-Qur'anin the Night of Power, Allah (SWT) inaugurated or
started its revelation for the beginning of the prophethood
('Bi'ethah),and the Prophet's mission ofAl-Islambegan in the month of
Ramadanon that Night.Al-Qur'anwas not revealed in one night; it was
revealed over the course of 23 years. Ibn Abbas (raa) said: The whole
Qur'an was revealed to the lower heavens from the protective slate
(Lawhul Mahfuz) on the Night of Power, then from there to the earth in
the courseof 23 years.
The word power,Al-Qadr, has several implications and meaning, but we
cover only those implications which are relevant to the issues here.
Qadrimplies having power over something, as in the case of the Creator
over the creation.Allah's (SWT) excellence isAl-Qadr, capable,
omnipotent, almighty, all powerful. It also implies excellence and
high esteem, and as for this Night of Power, it is highly esteemed and
regarded. For this night is equal to over 80 years in the sight of
Allah (SWT).
It also implies to maintain, appoint, assignor decree an order. Thus,
in the Night of Power, Allah (SWT) proclaims to the angels His
commands and orders in regards to the affairs of the universe. From
this meaning is derived the concept ofAl-Qada Wa Qadar, the fifth
article of faith, that Allah has decreed or preordained or, in other
words, has full knowledge of all that the human being will do with his
free will. A man'sdecision to act freely in good conscience or bad
conscience is all known to Allah (SWT), past, present and future.
Qadralso implies measurement, that is all the events of the year will
occur in accordance to the exact measurement of what is in the
knowledge of Allah, Who states: "Verily, all things have We created in
proportion and measure."(Al-Qur`an,54:49)
Why the name, the Night of Power?
As mentioned above, it is the night of Taqdeer, meaning the one in
which Allah (SWT) announces to the angels His already decreed
commands, rules, events, etc., for the coming calendar year, from the
present Night of Power to the next Night of Power. Allah (SWT) states:
"We sent it down during a blessed night; We forever wish to warn
(against evil). In that (night) is made distinct every affair of
wisdom."(Al-Qur`an, 44:3-4)
It should be known that most scholars believe Allah's commands and
rules are not made on that night. It has already been decreed in the
eternity what is known to Allah, but that knowledge is not known to
anyone, including the angels, until He announces it to the angels on
that night so that they will record it onthe protective slate.
This is also the night of honor and prestige which may be awarded to
the servant who devotes himself to specialdeeds, or to the deeds
themselves for the highervalue they contain on that night.
The Night Is Concealed
Allah (SWT) in His mercy, has concealed the Night of Power from us for
the following reasons: The problems pertaining to an exact night on
which the honors are attained are not unique with this Night. It seems
that Allah conceals many things. He conceals his pleasure from us in
all our good deeds so that we will strive in all of them. He conceals
His wrath from us in all of the sins we commit so that we will avoid
them. He conceals His most beloved servants('awliya) so that we will
respect all the believers. He has concealed the time of His acceptance
of our supplications so that we will strive in all our supplications.
He concealed his greatest name, so that we mention all His names.
Hehas concealed the time ofdeath so that we will be conscious of Him
and our deeds all the time.
He has concealed the exact date of the Night ofPower so that we would
double our the efforts in the whole month of Ramadan, or at least the
last ten days. He has concealed it also to test the serious and the
non-serious. The seriously interested person will search for thenight
late and in the early hours until he or she attains it, regardless of
the hardship.
Where Is The Night?
The majority of the scholars who agreed thatthe night occurs in the
month of Ramadan, disagreed on the exact night. Some said it comeson
the first day of Ramadan. Others said it ison the seventh; while
others say its on the 19th night. All these opinions are not built on
sound proof. There is evidence that the night comes on the last ten
days of Ramadan, specifically on the odd numbered nights. In a report
by Bukhari, the Messenger of Allah (saas) said: "Seek it on the odd
nights of the last ten days of Ramadan."
In a hadith by Ibn Umar (raa), some men among the companions saw the
night in a dream occurring in the last seven nights. Respondingto
this, the Messenger of Allah (saas) told them, "I see your dreams
coincideon the last seven, whoever wants to seek it should do so in
the last seven." (Agreed upon)
In Muslim's report, the Prophet (saas) said, "Seekthe night in the
last ten days, and if any of you is weak, or can't observe it, he
should not miss the remaining seven days." In Hadith by Ubayy bin
Ka'ab (raa), he said: "By Allah, I know which nightit is. It is the
night the Messenger commanded us to observe, the night of the 27th."
(Ahmed/Tirmidhi)
Analyzing all these citations indicates still noone knows for sure
which night is the Night of Power, at least in a given year. It seems
that the night shifts and rotates to different nights from one year to
another. It may occur on the 27th in one year, while the next year it
willbe on the 25th, while on the following year it will be occurring
on the 29th,etc. There is an indicationto this in hadith by Bukhari,
when the Messenger of Allah (saas) states: "Seek it on the
twenty-ninth; it may be on the twenty-seventh, or on the
twenty-fifth." Imam Ibn Hajr, in his book,"Fathul Bari", in the
commentary of the Book of Bukhari, said: ``I accept the ruling that
thenight occurs on the odd nights of the last ten daysof Ramadan,
namely the twenty-first, twenty-third, twenty-fifth, twenty-seventh
and or twenty-ninth.''
Seeking The Night
It is recommended to seek the night and spendit diligently in
devotion, including night Sunnah prayers (Tahajjud), recitation
ofAl-Qur'anand supplications. In a hadith related by Abu Hurairah
(raa), the Messenger of Allah (saas) said: "He who spends the night in
prayer on the Night of Power, as a sign of His faith, and seeking
rewards from Allah, his previous sins will be forgiven."
(Bukhari/Muslim) This citation indicates that regardless of whether a
person knows the night or not, Allah will grant him forgiveness for
previous shortcomings.
" And what will explain to thee what the Night ofPower is?; The Night
of Power is better than a thousand months." (Al-Qur`an 97:2-3)
Allah (SWT) is emphasizing by putting the second verse in question
form. The answer being no one knows, or comprehends, the awesomeness
and the depth of honor of thenight. As if to say whatever merits Allah
informs you about the night is just nothing compared to the things you
have no idea about. Nonetheless, He mentionsthree honors in the
creditof the night: 1."The Nightis better than a thousand months. 2.
"Therein, come down the angels..."and 3. "Peace!"
The Night of Power is better than a thousand months.This indicates
that acts of worship such as prayer, charity, and recitation done on
this night are better in reward than the same actdone on other nights.
The rewards (thawaab) are being multiplied several-fold.
Imam Malik reported thatthe Messenger of Allah (saas) was shown the
long life span of people of previous nations, so the Prophet bemoaned
the shortness of the life span of the Ummah, fearing that they might
not be able to save many good deeds for the Hereafter. Therefore,
Allah gave him the Night of Power to compensate for their lack of
longevity. Hence, the devoted believer has as chance of adding 80
something years of worship to his life on the Night of Power. You see,
for instance, if you worship Allah on this night every year for 65
years, by multiplying 65 by 80, you would have lived for 5,200 years,
or achieved the reward of a person who lived that long.
You can see why the devotions were highly encouraged by the Prophet.
Indeed, you can achieve the honor of the Night of Power if you so wish
by spending the odd nights of the last ten days in acts of worship.
"Therein, come down theangels and the Spirit by Allah's permission, on
every errand." (Al-Qur`an 97:4)
This is far from the earlier cry of the angels who, when Allah told
them, "...I will create a vicegerent on earth," they said, "Will you
place therein one who will make mischief therein and shed
blood?..."(Al-Qur`an, 2:30)
You see, when the angelsfirst looked at our spirit with its traits of
mischief,vanity and desires, and the rages of anger, they, the
embodiment of all that is good, did not like us at all. That explains
their response in the above verse. So is the case with parents, when
they first conceptualize the shape of the offspring, semen and
congealed blood; they donot like it. They will even wash their hands,
clothesand everything that this substance touches, a gruesome thing.
They may even think about aborting the baby in the beginning.
But after the baby is being fashioned in the most beautiful shape
andthey feel the movement of life, they change from dislike to caring
love.
That is seemingly what happened to the angels. When they saw in us
this beautiful spirit of knowing the Creator, andworshipping Allah
alone, they changed from dislike to complete love, and cannot wait for
another Night of Power to come down so they can pray for us. Allah
states: "...And they implore forgiveness for those who
believe..."(Al-Qur`an, 40:7)
He used the form (tanazzal) "They come", toindicate that the angels
descend on the Night of Power, group after group; some coming down to
earth while others ascend into the heaven. This heavenly, angelic
organized traffic of good will continues until the break of dawn.
As for the reasons why they come, there are several explanations
including: (1) they descend to witness how we worship and obey Allah,
and (2) to show their deep love for the believers. This is why they
seek permission from Allah to come and meet us. This is a once-a-year
opportunity they do not like to miss. (3) Allah promised the believers
that in the hereafter, angels will approach on them with
greetings:"...And the angels shall enter into them from every gate
(with the salutation): Peace be unto you for that you persevered in
patience..."(Al-Qur`an, 13:23-24)
Now, if you preoccupy yourself with worship of Allah, the angels will
descend on you with salutations. (4) Allah (SWT) singles out this
night with honors on the earth so the angels can come down and
increase their rewards, and as a means to encourage the human race to
worship. (5) Realization that the angels are around is encouragement
for the servants to devote more time to good deeds as a man will work
harder when a foreman is present.
"...And the Spirit..." (Al-Qur`an 97:4)
There are several explanations for the meaning of the Spirit: (1) The
Spirit is comprised ofgroups of special angels who are seen only on
theNight of Power; (2) it is referring toAl-Qur`an, as Allah (SWT)
stated: "And thus have We, by Our command sent inspiration (spirit) to
thee..."(Al-Qur`an 42:52), (3) This is a reference to Angel Jibreel,
as this is a special honor to Jibreel who has been mentionedtwice
Surah 42 first with another angel, and separately as the spirit of
Allah (SWT) as the Qur`an says: "Verily this is a revelation from the
Lord of the Worlds. With it came down the spirit of faith and
truth."(Al-Qur`an, 26:192-193)Thus the correct explanation of the
spirit,Ruuh, is Jibreel in this verse to indicate the angels on one
side and Jibreel on the other, while they were descending.
"...By Allah`s permission..."
This indicates the angels extend a request to cometo meet the
believers; and to underscore the fact that angels are infallible; that
they do not make a move without explicit permission from their Lord.
Allah (SWT) states:"They speak not before He speaks, and they act (in
all things) by His command."(Al-Qur`an, 21:27)"(The angels say) We
descend not but by command of thy Lord..."(Al-Qur`an 19:64)
"(Their) Lord." It indicates honor for the angels. It is as if Allah
(SWT) is saying ``They arefor Me and I am for them''. Similarly, Allah
(SWT) said regarding us:"Verily your Lord is Allah Who created the
heavensand the earth in six days..."(Al-Qur`an, 10:3)And regarding
Prophet Muhammad (saas) Allah said: "Behold, your Lord said to the
angels..."(Al-Qur'an, 2:30)
It has been reported that when Prophet David was terminally ill, he
asked Allah to be for his son Solomon, as He was for him. Allah (SWT)
replied, saying: "Tell Solomon to be for Me as you are for
Me.(Al-Qur`an 2:30)
"...On every errand..."
This indicates the angels and the Spirit descend for different
purposes: some come down for prostration, some for bowing, and others
for supplications for the believers and salutations.Or they come down
carrying with them the proclamations of the coming year.
"Peace!..." (Al-Qur`an 97:5)
There are several explanations to this verse: (1) The whole Night of
Power, from sunset to the break of dawn, will be spent by the angeles
in salutation. (2) The purpose is to describe the night with peace
because of the salutation from the angels. That is very important,
because whenseven angels visited Prophet Ibrahim (saas) and saluted
him, he was very happy, and when Nimrod threw him in the fire, it
turned ice-cold when the angels saluted him. (3) This is a wish of
safety and peace from all evil and harmful things, or the angels will
only bring on this night, good things!
"...Until the rise of morn."(Al-Qur`an 97:5)
All the honor, blessings and peace of the Night ofPower will continue
in every second of the nightuntil Fajr. Allah (SWT) is the Best
Knower.

Fathwa - Is my fast broken if I fear that water was swallowed during gargling?

Question:
This morning I had to make ghusl. I am used to gargling very
'aggressively' and did so this morning while fasting. I felt that
something MAY have entered my throat but I am not sure if water went
DOWN. Is my fast invalidated?
Answer:
Walaikum assalam wa rahmatullah,
I pray this finds you in the best of health and spirits.
We assume our actions to be valid until we are sure otherwise, because
of the legal maxim that,"Certainty is not lifted by doubts." [Ibn
Nujaym, al-Ashbah wa'l Nadha'ir]
However, it is best not to gargle 'aggressively' when fasting, because
anything that endangers the validity of one's actions becomes
disliked.
And Allah alone gives success.

Fathwa - Passionate kissing while fasting

Question:
I have a question about what seems to be a contradiction, though I
could very obviously be mistaken.This is in regards to passionate
kissing while fasting. In the answer to the following post ( My
husband does not like kissing or other displays of physical affection.
He is religious, though, and may listen to religious advice.
In one answer, by Shaykh Muhammad ibn Adam al-Kawthari, it is stated that :
"Passionate kissing (orFrench kissing) is also the Sunnah of the
Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & givehim peace).
Sayyida A'isha (Allah be pleased with her) narrates that the Messenger
of Allah (Allah bless him & givehim peace) would kiss her whilst he
was fasting (m, refer to the fiqh of kissing during fast) and he would
suck her tongue." (Sunan Abu Dawud, no.2378) "
But in the post entitledFrench Kissing While Fasting, answered by
Shaykh Faraz Rabbani, it says:
"French-kissing would inevitably result in an exchange of saliva, and
then that saliva being swallowed. As such, given the legal maxim that,
"The inevitable is considered actual," [Ibn Nujaym, al-Ashbah] the
fast would be considered broken, and must be made up. [Shurunbulali,
Maraqi al-Falah]"
Can you please clarify this matter for me. Jazakallahu khayran for all
that you all do.
Answer:
In the name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful,
Indeed it is reported from the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him &
give him peace) that he would kiss his wife and our mother Sayyida
A'isha (Allah be pleased with her) passionately (by sucking on her
tongue) whilst in the state of fasting. (Sunan Abu Dawud, no: 2378)
However, when I quoted this Hadith in the answertitled "Passionate
kissingis also the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him &
give him peace)" I stated that please refer to the Fiqh of kissing
during a fast. The reason being is that, according to the Fuqaha,the
exchange of saliva through kissing will invalidate one's fast.
The Hanafi jurists (fuqaha) state that non-sexual affectionate
kissing, from which there is no fear of leading to intercourse
orejaculation, is allowed and not disliked. But, if one fears that
kissing will lead to ejaculation or intercourse, then it will be
disliked to kiss. However, one's fast remains valid as long as kissing
does not lead to actual sexual intercourse or does not result in
ejaculation. If kissing resulted in ejaculation, one's fast would
become invalid and hence will have to be made up (qadha), without
having to expiate for it (kaffara). (See: al-Fatawaal-Hindiyya, 1/200
& 1/204)
With regards to passionate or French kissing when saliva is exchanged,
it is stated in Maraqi al-Falah:
"And from the acts than invalidate one's fast and also necessitate an
expiation (kaffara) is the swallowing of the saliva of one's spouse or
friend,for one feels passion in it." (Tahtawi ala Maraqi al-Falah, P:
667)
It is stated in al-Fatawa al-Hindiyya:
"If one swallows the saliva of another, one's fast will be invalidated
without expiation (kaffara) being necessary, unless the saliva is of
one's friend (or spouse), for that will also necessitate expiation."
(1/203)
Thus, swallowing the saliva of another in a sexual manner with desire
and passion invalidates one's fast, with a make up (qadha) and
expiation (kaffara) both becoming necessary. Passionate kissing or
sucking on thetongue of one's spouse would inevitably result in an
exchange of saliva, and then that saliva being swallowed. As such, it
would result in the invalidation of one's fast. This is the position
of the Hanafi Fuqaha andalso the Fuqaha of some other Schools.
Now, the question arises as to how would the Hadith of the Messenger
of Allah (Allah bless him &give him peace), wherein he is reported to
have kissed passionately whilst fasting (quoted above), be explained?
Imam Hafidh Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani (Allah have mercy on him) states:
"There is a narration thathas been recorded by only Imam Abu Dawud
from Sayyida A'isha (Allah be pleased with her) that the "Messenger of
Allah (Allah bless him &give him peace) would kiss her passionately
(during a fast)" but the chain of this Hadith is weak. If it is proven
to be authentic, then it refers to when there is no exchange of
saliva, hence not swallowing one's spouse's saliva." (Fath al-Bari,
4/195)
The great scholar of Hadith of the Indian Subcontinent, Shaykh Khalil
Ahmad Saharanpuri (Allah have mercy on him) states in his commentary
of SunanAbi Dawud, Bazl al-Majhud, that this Hadith where it is
reported that the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him
peace) would kiss Sayyida A'isha passionately whilst fasting to the
point that he would suck on her tongue goes against what the Fuqaha
have stated that swallowing the saliva of another invalidates one's
fast.
One explanation is that the chain of transmissionfor this Hadith is
weak. The narrators Muhammad ibn Dinar and Sa'd ibn Aws are considered
to be weak, and neither is there another authentic Hadithwherein
"sucking on the tongue" is mentioned.
Secondly (if the Hadith is proven to be authentic), passionate kissing
and sucking on the tongue is not connected to fasting.Hence, the
meaning of the Hadith is that the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him
& give him peace) would kiss Sayyida A'isha whilst he was fasting, and
normally when he kissed her, he would kiss her passionately (but not
necessarily whilst fasting).
Thirdly, Even if the passionate kissing took place in the state of
fast, the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) would
ensurenot to swallow her saliva. The sucking on the tongue was very
subtle and not to the point where saliva was exchanged and swallowed.
(See: Bazl al-Majhud fi Hal Abi Dawud)
In Conclusion, passionatekissing is the Sunnah of the Messenger of
Allah (Allah bless him & give him) as mentioned in theHadith of Sunan
Abi Dawud, although some have considered the chain of this Hadith to
beweak. However, it wouldnot be allowed to kiss passionately whilst in
thestate of fasting, for the exchange of saliva and the resulting
swallowing will invalidate one's fast.
And Allah knows best