Mockery is forbidden in the Qur’an

It's a sin and a depravity according to the Qur'an for a believer to
criticize a person's' defects withmockery. Mockery is a
characteristic of those who live in distance from religious moral
values and do not fear Allah as should be. Thesepeople resort to such
methods as caricature etc. When they want to criticize a person or an
event and thus exceed the limits of respect and courtesy by choosing a
language, which is not compatible with the Qur'anic moral values.
Whereas, a Muslim uses amethod of communication while criticizing a
manner which he finds not compatible with the Qur'anic moral values
and the Hadith, thus he expresses the falsity of the manner in
question according to the Qur'an and the Hadith of our Prophet (may
Allah bless him and grant him peace). Especially about the issues
concerning religion and holy values, he uses careful and mindful
tongue as a necessity of his deep love and respect for Allah. Allah
mentions in the Qur'an that ordering good and forbiddingevilis an
important sign of believers:
Those who repent, thosewho worship, those who praise, those who fast,
those who bow, those who prostrate,those who command theright, those
who forbid the wrong, those who preserve the limits of Allah: give
good news tothe believers. (Surat at-Tawba, 112)
Throughout the history, prophets and sincere believers were mocked,
and Allah imposed punishments on those who were in depravity against
believers:
Messengers before you were also mocked,but those who jeered were
engulfed by what they mocked. ( Surat al-An'am, 10)
Allah mentioned in the Qur'an that mockery is an indecent morality and
a sin and thus, believers should avoid such depravity. Moreover, Allah
informs believers in a verse in case they encounter an atmosphere
where there's mockery about the religious issues, they should leave or
they would be in the positionof those who do it:
It has been sent down toyou in the Book thatwhen you hear Allah's
Signs being rejected andmocked at by people, you must not sit with
them till they start talking of other things. If you do you are just
the same as them. Allah will gather all the hypocrites and unbelievers
into Hell. (Surat an-Nisa', 140)
Allah informs us the position of those who resort to mockery in some
other verses in the Qur'an.
You who believe! Do nottake as friends any ofthose given the Book
before you or the unbelievers who make amockery and a game outof your
believe. Fear [and respect] Allah if youare believers. (Surat
al-Ma'ida, 57)
... lest anyone should say, 'Alas for me for neglecting what Allah was
due, and beingone of the scoffers!' (Surat az-Zumar, 56)
When he does learn something of Our Signs, he makes a mockery of them.
Such people will have a humiliating punishment. (Surat al-Jathiyya, 9)

Story, - It is lying on my conscience

Hello,
I frequently read your stories and I decided I can write mine, too. I
willstart by saying that I had a great childhood, but from a certain
point I started seeing inappropriate people.
When I was 19, my mother told me that she and her husband are not my
real parents, that theyhave adopted me. I couldn't stand it, was it
because I was in puberty,I don't know. I told them I hate and despise
them and moved to live in another town.
I didn't endure long and after three months I wentback. I have met a
man… accidentally… we went for a coffee, talked for 3 hours, and I
left with himfor Varna. It was the mostamazing evening I've ever had…
but he was married. Nevertheless, our relationship lasted about two
years. I loved him very much, bud I hadno future with him… he was
married.
20 days before my birthday I realized that I was pregnant… false
pregnancy… I was in the forth month. He made meget rid of the baby. I
was afraid, how would I go there… lie there… and what is more, my
mother was working in the same hospital and everyone knew me. Christ,
if she finds out – she will kill me, but I don't give a damn.
I didn't think much of my mother, I don't know why... I just didn't
love them… I still don't, I only respect them, I don't know why.
Anyway, I did the abortion, and the above-mentioned man did not even
appear... did not even call to see how I was. I decided that all this
will have to end… but he didn't want to. He told me he loved me, thatI
was his thrill and so on. For the first time in my life I saw a crying
man, and it was over me. I am a good person, I care a lot for my
friends, if I have friends at all… but I respect them.
I have helped so many people… familiar and strangers. So when I broke
up with this man I met my best friend… She knows everything about me
and I know everything about her, but even for her, now I can hardly
say she is a friend… why is that so?
Because of her I was being forced to become aprostitute, I was raped
twice… they kidnapped me and what not. I have had lots of men… I am
not a beauty queen, but Iguess I attract men in some way. There was a
time in my life when I didn't care who I would go to bed with, only if
hewas a bit cute… that lasted for 3 years.
One day my life turned upside down. My friend had a small business… I
used to spend almost all my time with her… One day two men
approachedus… one of them smiling… it seemed he knew V~(my friend's
name). He looked at me and smiled. I only asked V~ who is he? She
didn't answer… they started talking… and suddenly hesaid – aren't you
going tointroduce me to this wonderful lady… he meant me. I pretended
not to be there… BecauseI hate arrogant men… so Iact inaccessible… we
were introduced, but I didn't even make eye contact. He said – look me
in the eyes, but I said:no, I only look a person in the eyes when I'm
lying:)))) Inaccessible… phew. And he was really handsome, with big
green eyes… amazing:))) He and V~ agreed to meet on the next day for
coffee… but he said… only if your friend comes along, otherwise no.
And… I had the feeling that… I don't know exactly what this feeling
was, but I couldn't wait to see him again. I didn't want V~ to find
out, so I didn't know what to do. She simply said: S~ (his name) likes
you very much. Yes, of course, we all know these things… just to get
you in his bed and then you suddenly stop being pretty… but still I
wanted to see him. Next day he called her and we decided to meet in a
coffee place. My feelings were mixed, I wanted to go and still, I
didn't. We went, of course, my curiosity to see what will happen took
over me. We met at the coffee place… and he started talking to me… I
was pretending that I'm not listening… until we drank 3 or 4
cocktails… That same night I slept with him… it was great… he left me
in front of my place and said: I need to go to Sofia to get some
documents in order and when I come back I will call you. But nothing
happened… a month passed, then a month and a half, he didn't show up
and I already missed him… I had the feeling that I knew this guy for
ages, that we have always been together, but I had no news from him
and knewnothing at all. One day V~called me and said that S~ called
his friends last night to ask for my phone number… they met me and I
gave it to them, you are not angry with me, are you? I told her no…
next day I was starting a new job and I had to get up early… I
switched on my phone and I received a text message: I had to leave for
England, I am sorry about that, if you want me to call you just text
me, kissing you. I was outof myself with happiness,I wanted to shout
as loudas I can. Of course I wanted to hear his voice,to find out why
things turned out that way… And so… A year of telephone love went by.
Iwas on the phone with him every other day for 2hours, one whole year.
And then came the moment when he was coming back for a while… He
wanted me to go to Sofia and meet him, he was in Bulgaria for 2 months
and it was the best summer I've everhad, but then he had to go back
again. In the meantime I also applied for an English visa. When he was
leaving it was likesomething broke inside of me. I wasn't sure whether
I was going to obtain a visa, but he said:if it doesn't work, I am
giving you some homework… to think if you want to marry me. My God, I
didn't know what to say, I only smiled.So he left and I was without
him for 2 months… and I cheated on him… 3 times. I don't know why… it
wasn't fairto him. He was so good to me and I, the fool, cheated on
him.
I am now with him in England. We have been living together for a
year,but this lies on my conscience. I want to confess, but I am sure
it would be the end. I have one more problem. I was pregnant from him,
but I got rid of the baby… he doesn't know about that either… too many
lies and I can't live with themanymore.
I don't know, I want to tell him, but whenever I think it is the right
time…I get scared. I started treating him bad, we fight all the time.
Of course, it is all my fault. A week ago we even wanted to end our
relationship, because he said that he can't stand it any more, the way
I treat him… oh, I really don't know how exactly.
Please, tell me what to do… I am sorry, I probably bored you, but at
least I feel better now.

Story, - I want him back. But...

I had known this guy since we were little kid. we had crush to each
other since then. one dayi met him again and sincethen, we started to
contact. we talked, we chat, but we were not officially dating that
time. just kinda flings.
After all the obstacles that we've been through,at last we were going
out. but after two months, i broke up with him as i thought
I had no feelings for him..he was hurt by then. after few months, I
went back to him and he accepted me. But then, the event recycled over
and over again for 3 times. and it was for the same reason: i have no
feelings for him. The problem was me, I just made the decision without
thinking much. I was so stupid. Now, he has a new girlfriend..
andthey'll be having one-year-relationship this September. I'm not
over him, i still love him but i wont disturb his relationship. I'll
just wait for him to come back to me.
The problem is... last week he told my best friend that he was
confused with his feelings, between me or his current girlfriend. I
could tell that he still cares for me. So, I gave him a text. we
managed to talked, and he didn't gave me much details though on his
problem. My friends said that i might have chance with him. I miss him
so much, and i want him back. But if i have to hurt his current
girlfriend in order to get him back, I don't think I can do that. But
I really want him back. I don't know what to do anymore. :(

Husband too friendly to non-Muslim women

Question:
Assalam alaikum
Living in the US, I have a hard time coming to terms with the culture
here.The women here wear unIslamic clothing (deep necks,scanty
clothing).
My husband's nature isto speak freely with allwhether men or women and
of very jovial nature.
My blood burns when Isee him speaking freely with these nastywomen. I
had several arguments with him, leading to a strained relationship.
Otherwise he loves medearly and is loyal to me. How should I reconcile
to my environment? I feel depressed most of the time and cannot
concentrate on anything including Salah.
Answer:
In the Name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful.
Praise be to Allah.
May Allah's peace and blessings shower upon our beloved Messenger.
Dear Sister,
I pray this message finds you in good health and spirits.
Here's something I want to emphasize to you:
You said, and I quote,"Otherwise he loves me dearly and is loyal to me."
Alhamdulillah! This is all you could ask for in a Muslim husband. As
long as he is pious, aware of Allah at all times, and truly devoted to
you, then you have nothing to worry about.
Yes, the way the women dress is very disturbing. But you must remember
that these women do nothave divine guidance. There is really no such
concept as modesty in this society. But don't think of all non-Muslim
women as "nasty." Many of these same scantily-clad women, through
Allah's mercy, may one day come to Islam. I know sisters who are
themost modest, sincere Muslimahs today, who just yesterday were
running around barely dressed!
Please don't be depressed. We women do have a tendency to get jealous;
however, this isn't a very effective strategy. What you can do is
communicate your concern in a positive way to your husband. Tell him
how you really love his jovial personality, but could he exercise more
caution in his interactions with the opposite sex. Gently remind him
of the Qur'anic injunctions about lowering one's gaze.
Most importantly, be positive. Your husband has a beautiful Muslim
wife. Let him know that. Alhamdulillah, we stand out from the crowd.
Embrace that by being the best example of a Muslimah you can be.
My teacher once told me,"Bloom where you are planted." What this means
is that we should strive to flourish no matter where Allah Most High
has placed us on this earth. America offersmany opportunities to
Muslims: we can give da'wah, attend university and work withour hijab
on, help those less fortunate, and become active in our own Muslim
communitiesand in the larger society.
When you see these women, don't resent them. Feel confident thatyour
husband loves you. Give them a smile, treat them with kindness, and
show them a positive example of Muslim womanhood.
May Allah Most High blessyou and your husband.
And Allah knows best.

Fathwa, - Soul mate... potential spouse or potential disaster?

Question:
asalaamu alaikum,
By Allah's grace, I have recently come in contact with a brother with
whom I share a deep connection. The level of our connectionis so
intense that it is either too good to be true or too overwhelming.
Whatever it is, both of us agree that we have never had such an
exprience with anyoneelse ever.
We are both dedicatedmuslims and sincere inour path of
spirituality.However, it has come to our attention that we may have
certain differences in how we view our deen. It seems to me that for
him the beauty of Islam is in all its details. Where as I want to make
sure that I keep my practicesimple yet extremely sincere. That works
best for me as compulsion tends to make me lose sight of what is
really important which is being the best servant to Allah.
Do you think that in the end, two people should follow their hearts
and go with thepassion Allah has put in their hearts for one
another?... or is it best to make sure all the Islamic views match
before more feelings are involved?
thank you... wa salaam.
Answer:
In the Name of Allah the Absolutely Gracious, the Absolutely Merciful.
Praise be to Allah.
May Allah bless our Beloved Prophet and give him peace.
Dear Sister,
I apologize for the delay in responding.
I pray you are in good health and iman.
The number one thing todo is to make the Guidance Prayer, or
Salatal-Istikhara._______________________________________________Both
you and the brother need to make this prayer. Once you have turned to
Allah MostHigh for guidance, then take the next steps.
The Prophet, Allah bless him and give him peace, gave us certain
criteria to use when selecting a spouse. The first and foremost is
religion. In a rigorously authenticated hadith, the Prophet, Allah
bless him and give him peace, said, "A woman is married for her
wealth, her reputation, her beauty or her religion. Choose the
religious one or you may be ruined." Scholars explain that this hadith
also applies equally to choosing a husband.
Our first choice may be to go with our feelings. However, it is
important to note that the fires of passion can be quickly
extinguished, particularly when the novelty of the spouse wears off
and the realities of married life set in.
After making istikhara, it is important to have some serious
conversations with this brother. Obviously, the conversations must be
chaperoned, so why not choose someone with experience in marriage
counseling? Allah willing,this person can help you identify areas of
potential conflict and suggest useful strategies for dealing with
these issues.
Make no mistake. Every marriage has some degree of conflict, even when
the spouses appear to be completely compatible. What's important is
how the spouses react to each other during the conflict.
Are these issues so fundamental in nature that they could drive
youapart? That is something you and the brother will have to
determine. It is difficult, if not impossible, to find someone who has
completely matching views. On the other hand, such differences,
ifstrong enough, can be a source of constant bickering.
My advice is to take theseconcerns to a reliable scholar. You may also
want to consider running the household according to a particular
school of thought. If both husband and wife agree to run the household
according to a particular school of thought, this may resolvesome
potential conflict.
Last but not least, please consult Ustadha Hedaya Hartford's excellent
guide to Islamic marriage. You can find Initiating and Upholding an
Islamic Marriage at a lmuhajabat.com. This book addresses some of the
key issues you've raised: romantic love, selecting a spouse, and
conflict resolution.

Fathwa, - My rights as a (second) wife

Question:
I wanted to know what rights I had in my Deen in this dilemma. I am my
husband's second wife, and our marriageis undercover from everybody,
my family and his family. We have been married for over three years
now. When we got married my husband assured me that in three years
time he would tell his wife and family, but just a few months laterhe
told me he could never tell her, because he fears he may lose his
children.
All this time I thought things might change, but they haven't and I
think it is very unlikelyto change. He doesn't spend any time with me,
maybe an hour every 6-8 weeks, he doesn't even have timeto talk to me
over the phone, and these things hurt me very much. When I married him
I accepted the fact I had to share him, but this isn't 50/50. When I
complain that he doesn't spend any time with me he says I am
pressurizing him, so I don't say anything,and if I am upset over this
he tells me I am feeling sorry for myself.
If I knew that things would be like this, thatour marriage will never
be public knowledge, I would have never married him. What am I suppose
to tell my family, who except me to get married. How do I explain this
to the world what my relationship is with this man? I've tried talking
to him many times; he just suggestsI look for anther man to marry. I
don't think he knows how much this is hurting me, how much it effects
me. He gets all this rights as my husband, yet he has taken away any
rights Allah SWT has given to every wife.
I cannot talk to anyoneabout my problems, because I'm not allowed to
tell anyone.Every problem I face, I have to face alone. He says he
loves me, but they are just words to me now. I feel like I ambeen
unjustly treated, that's he has misled me.
I would really appreciate if you couldgive me some advice, maybe I am
just looking at this from my point of view, and that I am wrong in
thinking like this. AllahSWT knows best.
Allah Hafiz
Answer:
In the Name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful.
Dear Sister,
I pray that this message finds you in in good health and iman.
You are correct: this is a difficult situation.
My first piece of advice to you is to make sure that you have some
documentation of your marriage. Since the community was not informed
of your marriage, you need to besure that you can prove that you are
this brother's wife. Were there any witnesses to the marriage? Do you
have a contract?
You need to go to the person who performed the marriage ceremony and
apprise him of the situation.
Even more importantly, you need to consult a reliable scholar, Imam,
orMuslim marriage counselor and let them know what is happening.
The brother has violated your rights as a wife on several counts.
Sacred Law absolutely requires men to treat their wives equitably.
Equitable treatment includes, but is not limited to:
1. Financial support and maintenance
2. Housing
3. Companionship
4. Fair division of time between households
This is the letter of the law. If a man cannot dealequitably between
wives, it is impermissible for him to enter into a polygynous
marriage.
The scholars on SunniPath caution against men entering into such
marriages for the very reasons you describe. Obviously your husband is
concerned that if he were to tell his first wife about you, then their
marriage would break up. Since there are so many relationships at
stake here, yours, his first marriage, and his relationship with his
children, you need to reconsider the wisdom of staying in such a
situation.
Please ask Allah Most High to facilitate the bestcourse of action by
turning to Him in istikhara, or the prayer for guidance.

Employment concerns forworking Muslim women – II: Working from home)a solution(

For single and married sisters who must work due to financial need,
this presents a perplexing dilemma on one hand the true economic need
is there, on another the tremendous temptation and tribulation. These
hardships have led some sisters in dire straights to turn totheir
local mosques for financial aid or in humiliation to the welfare
system; in most cases whatever assistance they do receive is never
enough to cover even the most modest living expenses. These options
can only offer short-term assistance and are not a solution to a
long-term need. One option that may work for most of us is working
from home.
Most of us are aware of the industriousness of the Prophet'swife,
Khadeejah. Shewas by all accounts, an astute businesswoman. Although
Khadeejahwas a wealthy woman, starting a home-based business today
does not require alarge investment. In fact, in most cases, a small
home-based endeavor may only require minimal funds to start-up. In
addition, most of us are also aware that Islam has blessed women and
permitted them to conduct business for themselves. There is no
question that it is permissible, but how we choose to carry out that
blessing is the key issue.
As Muslim women, we have certain obligations, such as our home and
family, which should always be our utmost priority. We must never lose
sight of the importance of those obligations; being good mothers and
wives is much more crucial to our life in the Hereafter than working
at another job will ever be. Raising our children to be trustworthy,
honest Muslims is a means for us to acquire our goal of
Jannah)Paradise(, and that is something that no monetary wealth can
ever accomplish no matter how great. Knowing this, we have a choice to
make, and protecting ourselves by working from the security of home
can make a world of difference to our family and more importantly, to
enable us to safeguard our religion.
The notion of working at home isnot something new. The "work-at-home"
idea has been echoed for years from scam artists and homemakers alike,
all trying to make some extra cash. However, with the advent of the
Internet, anew door has opened. Freelancing has become commonplace
today's job marketand employees are now telecommuting more than ever
before. Working from home can now be a reality instead of a dream for
Muslim women.
Excellent benefits:
The benefits and rewards of working from home are innumerable. You are
your own boss, and are therefore free to manage your own time. For
example, if your child needs attention or if you need to perform your
Prayer, it is your prerogative when to take a break; you will be on
your own time, not someone else's. If your financial situation
improves and there is not a need to work a great deal, the option to
take a vacation is yours. You will have the ability to deal with your
customers only via e-mail, eliminating face-to-face contact completely
and using the telephone altogether. What's more, you also get the
added benefit of deciding when to reply to that e-mail, when you have
thetime. Checks come to you, rather than you going to them. In other
words, the work can revolve around your life, rather than vice-versa.
One of the most beneficial aspects of working from home is that it can
be done by one person, or as a family venture. The effect of working
as a team can even bring the family closer together while
simultaneously benefiting it financially. Everyone from the young to
the old can participate in running a home-based business. It can also
be one of the most effective hands-on learning opportunities for
children. Running a home-based business incorporates various real-life
skills that children can discover such as marketing, advertising,
developing business concepts, math and teamwork.
Home business also provides a solid foundation to teach a child
Islamic work ethics. For Muslim women, it is a win-win situation. You
are able to be with your children, earn extra money from your home and
set a schedule that works best for yourself and your family.
Working from home is also a great way for sisters to band together and
develop an organized effort networking theirtalents. If you are
someone that has computer or business skills, you can donate your time
to teach other sisters that are in need of work so that they may
benefit their own families, and in turn you will be rewarded, Allaah
willing.
Our homes are a protection for us, but our homes can also be
profitable, not only Islamically but also economically. It is up to us
to be resourceful thinkers and find what each of us can do from our
home to help our families and ourselves, while preserving and
protecting our religion and chastity.
Final advice:
This was an attempt to give an alternative to substitute having to
indulge in an out-of-home working environment. However, if a sister is
forced to get into such an environment, then she must realize that
Hijaab, on its own, makes a statement telling she is a proud and
committed Muslim. This, if done sincerely, could repel much harm from
her.
The most important advice for sisters to remember is that no matter
where we are, or what we are doing, we should be persistent in
fulfilling Allaah's commands, be ever mindful of Him, and rely solely
upon His grace and assistance. If we are in a job where we feel that
our values are being compromised, the best option is to leave.
Allaah,Almighty, should always be our first priority, not money,
personalsatisfaction, or desire for prestigeor power. If things seem
too overwhelming or difficult, we should always turn to Allaah and ask
for his help and guidance.
The Prophetsaid:"Allaah the Almighty says:'I will be for My slave as
he thinks of Me. I am with him when he makes mention of Me. If he
makes mention of Me to himself, I make mention of him to Myself; and
if he makes mention of Me in an assembly, I make mention of himin an
assembly better than it. Andif he draws near to Me a hand's span, I
draw near to him an arm's length; and if he draws near to Me an arm's
length, I draw near to him a fathom's length…"]Al-Bukhaari[
If you absolutely must work, thenmake sure that before you apply for
any job to perform the Istikhaarah Prayer and seek guidance from
Allaah and place the matter with Him – indeed Allaah is the Best
Disposer of affairs, and the Best to rely on. Let us rely upon Allaah
in all of our matters, whether personal, social, or professional.

Entering the marital bond – IV :The wedding night

For a woman, the wedding day is one of the happiest and most exciting
days of her life. The preparations, the guests and the festivities are
all in anticipation ofthis very special event. At the same time, many
women also experience a great deal of apprehension and anxiety,
particularly as the wedding night approaches. Many are concerned about
how it will be for them, what will happen, how their newhusbands will
treat them. It is an unknown experience that stirs upmany emotions and
concerns.
Islam is a religion that has maintained the special nature of the
wedding and the wedding night, providing specific prescriptions for
those events. Intimate relations between a man and a woman are only
allowed within the marital bond, ensuring the uniqueness of that day
and that relationship. It is important to recall that the union of man
and woman is an innate occurrence and, because of that, it will come
naturally. Allaah Says )what means(:"And We created you in
pairs."]Quran 78: 8[ Islam has regulated this relationship on the
basis of wisdom and nature. Through marriage, the natural instinct is
provided for within reasonable and appropriate limits. This prevents
the disorder and disharmony that we see in societies where these
limits are not in place. The Islamic prescriptions are the most
beneficial for the human beings, as well as the society in regard
tosexual and marital relations. The individual is able to fulfill his
or her desires in a healthy and wholesome manner, while protecting the
society from iniquity at the same time.
So, as couples unite, they should reflect upon the fact that they
arefulfilling an important duty in Islam and will be rewarded
accordingly. There is also a spiritual component to this unionalong
with the other elements. This means that they will be accountable to
Allaah in all that they do in relation to this union. They are
embarking on a new course in life, which will present new challenges
and new joys. They will need to learn about each other – the other
person's needs, personality, temperament,and uniqueness. Patience will
be needed since any match will not be perfect and there will most
certainly be differences. This will be true regarding intimate matters
as well, and this should be kept in mind as the couple begins their
journey together on the first day of marriage. The couple should take
time to get toknow and understand one another and to discover the
uniqueness and desires of their new life partner. This should be done
in a gradual and sensitive manner. Each individual should be more
concerned about the needs and wants of their partner,more so than his
or her own self. This is a very delicate issue, especially for women
who are generally more sensitive and emotional.
Mothers, sisters and friends who are experienced should assist in
preparing the bride for the wedding night. They should be supportive
and provide her with the necessary information. This will lessen her
anxiety and make her feel comfortable knowing that other women have
had similar experiences. All of this should be done, of course,
without providing specific detailsof each individual's experiences for
this is a very personal matter. The discussion can be general and
based upon the Quran and the Sunnah.
The following are some of the etiquette that should be considered in
preparing for this special night. This information will also be
valuable and useful throughout the marriage.
1. Special supplications and prayer
As the union for a man and a woman embodies an inherent spiritual
component, the couple should remember Allaah at this time. The husband
should put hishand on his wife's head and supplicate for her. The
Prophetsaid:"If one of you marries a woman, he should take her by her
forelock, mention Allaah's Name and supplicate for blessing by saying,
'O Allaah, I ask you for her good and the good of what You have
dispositioned her toward and I seek refuge )in You( from her evil and
the evil You have dispositioned her toward.'"]Al-Bukhaari[
Following this, the couple performs two Rak'ahs )units of prayer( together.
Before becoming intimate, the man should say, "Bismillaah, Allahumma
jannibnaa ash-shaytaana wa jannibish-shaytaana ma razaqtana," which
means: "In the name of Allaah, O Allaah, ward off Satan from us and
ward off from Satan what you grant us." The Prophetsaid:"Then, if
Allaah decrees that they should have a child, Satan will never harm
him."]Al-Bukhaari[ This should be said before each intimate act in
order to protect the children who may be conceived.
2. Cleanliness
Miswaak )tooth stick( –It is recommended for each partner to clean his
or her teeth and mouth with Miswaak or a toothbrush. This will make it
easier for them to come close to each other and enhance the relations.
Shurayh Ibn Haani'said: "I asked 'Aa'ishah, what theProphetwould begin
with when he entered his house and shesaid:'Cleaning his
teeth.'"]Muslim[
Wudhoo' )ablution( and Ghusl)ritual bathing( – after the couple have
completed the sexual act and wish to repeat it, it is recommended to
perform ablution before this. This is the Sunnah of the Prophetas
demonstrated in the following narration. The Messenger of
Allaahsaid:"If one of you has gone to his wife and he wishes torepeat
the act, he should )first( perform ablution."]Muslim[ After completion
of intimacies, it is required for both spouses complete Ghusl )a
ritual bath( before resuming prayer and other religious acts.
3. Appropriate behavior
The husband may approach his wife in any manner that he wishes as long
as it is through the vagina. Allaah Says )what means(:"Your wives are
a place of sowing of seed for you, so come to your place of
cultivation however you wish and put forth]righteousness[ for
yourselves…"]Quran 2: 223[ It is imperative to stay away from the anal
area and to avoid intercourse when the woman is menstruating. The
Prophetsaid:"Whoever has intercourse with a menstruating woman or with
a woman through the anus has committed disbelief in what has been
revealed to Muhammad."]Ahmadand Abu Daawood[ These acts areto be
avoided because they are unnatural and they may lead to various
physical, psychological, and interpersonal problems.
The union between a man and a woman is a special gift which hasbeen
given by Allaah. It is one of the bounties of this life and, as such,
it should be treated accordingly. It is a relationship that should be
based upon love, compassion, and concern for the other. It is an act
of charity for which Allaah will reward both partners. The
Prophetsaid: "In having intercourse )with your wife( there is an act
of charity)for which you shall be rewarded(."The companionssaid, "O
Messenger of Allaah, one of us fulfills his desires and he will be
rewarded for that?" Hesaid:"Do you not see that if he fulfills it in a
forbidden way that he will have its burden )it being a sin(. In the
same way if he fulfills it in a permissible way, he shall have a
reward."]Muslim[
As the couple begin their life together as husband and wife, they
should keep to these important principles and, Allaah willing, Allaah
will reward them with a long and happy life together.

History of the Sunnah – III: The era of the Companions and their followers

As a part of our discussion of the Companions'methodology in
preserving the Sunnah of the Prophetwe mentioned thus far two of its
aspects; namely, prudence in narrating the Hadeeth, and verification
and substantiation of the Hadeeth before accepting it. Three more
aspects are presented here.
3. Study, critique, and assessmentof the narrations
Of the ways the Companionsused to preserve the Sunnah, properly
learning and studying it,was perhaps the most important.They refer to
this using terms like, "Tadaarus" and"Muthaakarah," both of which
indicate a studying that involves more than one person as well as a
mutual exchange of knowledgeand ideas. The results of this"studying
and discussing" were manifold. Learning the Sunnah correctly, free of
mistakes was one of the goals, and so was the firm memorization of it.
And since it was physically impossible for a large number of the
Companionsto have equal time access to the Prophetthese discussions
were the means through which the narrations known to only a few
individuals were passed on to many others, thus expanding the circle
of narrators. Books such as Jaami' Bayaan Al-'Ilm by Ibn Abd
Al-Barrand Al-Jaami' Li Akhlaaq Ar-Raawi by Al-Khateebhave many
authentic narrations from the Companionsbearing witness to the
effectiveness of these discussionsin preserving the Sunnah.
Another aspect of the Companions'methodology in preserving the Sunnah
was the critical assessment and evaluation of what they narrated and
taught to one another. Anytime a Companionfelt what he heard from
another had a problem, he or she would critically analyze it and give
his/her opinion about it. A major example of this effort by the
Companionswas demonstrated by Badruddeen Az-Zarkashiwho wrote a book
in which he collected more than seventy narrations in which one
Companion, 'Aa'ishah, the Mother of the Believerswas reported as
having corrected other Companions'narrationsbased on her assessment of
the narrations in light of the Quran and the Hadeeth.
4. Traveling in search of the Hadeeth
Another great effort they made was traveling in search of the Hadeeth,
for after the death of the Prophetthe Companionsmoved to different
places within the Muslim land, and traveling became an essential
method of Hadeeth collection, authentication and preservation. Here
are a few examples of the Companions'travel for the sole purpose of
confirming certain narrations:
Jaabir Ibn Abdullaahtraveled a whole month to Ancient Syria only to
verify one Hadeeth.]Al-Bukhaari[
One of the Companionstraveled to visit Fudhaalah Ibn 'Ubaydand told
him that he came not to visit him but only to ask him about a
narration that they both heard together from Prophetand he was hoping
that Fudhaalahhad the complete wording of that Hadeeth. ]Abu Daawood[
One of the Companionsleft his home in Madeenah in order tomeet Abu
Ad-Dardaa'in Damascus only to have Abu Ad-Dardaa' confirm a narration
which this Companionhad already heard from the Prophet. ]Ibn Abd
Al-Barr[
The Companion Abu Ayyoobtraveled all the way to Egypt to ask 'Uqbah
Ibn 'Amrabout one Hadeeth. Abu Ayyoob told 'Uqbahthat the two of them
were the only living Companions who have heard that Hadeeth directly
from the Prophetandhe wanted to confirm the Hadeeth from
'Uqbah.]Ahmad[
5-Memorization of the Hadeeth
Muslims – one generation after the other – did all that is humanly
possible to preserve the texts of the Quran and the Sunnah as accurate
as they received it from the Prophet. Beside the extra effort they
exacted to develop the Methodology, the Companionsbenefited from a
talent that came naturally to them, one that was truly befitting to
the main undertaking of that methodology—the verbatim transmission of
the Sunnah. This unique quality of the Companionswas that they enjoyed
powerful memories.It was easy for anyone of them tocommit to heart any
number of narrations and retain them as such for a very long time.
This quality was not specific only to the Companionsbut ratherwas a
common feature of the Arab society as a whole. Many scholars—Muslims
and non-Muslim alike – established the fact that the Arabs of that
erawere masters of language, and their society had a profoundly strong
oral tradition. The known narrator of poet­ry, Hammaad, for example,
was reported to have memorized at least one hundred long poems for
each letter in the Arabic alphabet. Thatis more than 2800 pieces of
poetry. Powerful memory was a source of pride for them and theyplaced
more con­fidence in it than in writing, they believed that writings
could be tampered with. Some even took this pride to extreme levels,
they would notwrite anything down for fear thatmay be taken as
indication of defective memory.
Obviously, the Companionswho had more passion for preserving the
Sunnah than poetry and literature used this powerful quality to
protect and maintain the Sunnah. Imaam Ad-Daariminarrated that
theCompanion Abu Hurayrahsaid: "I used to divide the night into three
parts. In the first, I would perform the optional night Prayer, in the
second I would sleep, and in the third I would spend committing
Hadeeth to my memory." Actually, all of the Companionsconsidered this
an honor anda blessing, for they were encouraged to do so by the
saying of the Prophet: "May Allaah make radiant )bestow vigor upon(
anyone who heard what I said and commit­ted it to his memory until he
is able to convey it to another. Perhaps the person who hears it from
him can have a better understanding of it than him." ]At-Tirmithi[
On the other hand, the Prophetalso taught the Companionstwo aspects
that brought a needed balance to the use of memorization in conveying
his Hadeeth, namely the importance of writing, and the need of being
moderate in all matters. This fact complemented their efforts in
establishing a sound and well rounded methodology.
The phenomenon of "Memory Power" continued to be a generalcharacter of
the Arab society wellinto the third and fourth centuries of Hijrah,
the time by which all of the Sunnah was collected into books and
records. But the diminishing of its prevalence in the society with
time did not minimize the role memory played in the preserving of the
Sunnah. "Memory Power," or Dhabt—proficiency in narration, as it later
came to be known—became an essential part of the standards used to
judge authenticity. Judging the narrators memory power is central in
what we know as the science of "Al-Jarh wa Ta'deel."

Dought & clear, - The Muslim Woman, - • Are women equal withmen in reward and punishment?.

Some people say that women are lacking in intellect and religious
commitment, and in inheritance and bearingwitness. Some say that
Allaah has made them equal in reward and punishment. What is your
opinion: are they lacking according to Islam or not?.
Praise be to Allaah.
Islam came to honour women and raise their status, and to give them a
position that befits them, and to take care of them and protect their
dignity. So Islam commands women's guardians and husbandsto spend on
them, to treat them well, look after them and be kind to them. Allaah
says (interpretation of the meaning):
"and live with them honourably"
[al-Nisa' 4:19]
It is reported that the Prophet(peace and blessings of Allaah be upon
him) said: "The best of you are those who are best to their wives, and
I am the best of you to my wives." Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 5/709, no.
3895.
Islam gives women all their rights and allows them to dispose of their
affairs in an appropriatemanner. Allaah says (interpretation of the
meaning):
"And they (women) haverights (over their husbands as regards living
expenses) similar (to those of their husbands) over them (as regards
obedience and respect) to what is reasonable, but men have a degree
(of responsibility) over them. And Allaah is All-Mighty, All-Wise"
[al-Baqarah 2:228]
This includes all kinds of dealings, buying, selling,compromising,
appointing others to act on their behalf, lending, depositing trusts,
etc.
Islam enjoined upon women the acts of worship and duties that befit
them, the same duties as men, namely purification, zakaah, fasting,
prayer, Hajj, and other acts of worship.
But Islam gives a womanhalf the share of a man when it comes to
inheritance, because sheis not obliged to spend on herself or her
house or her children. Rather the one who is obliged to spend on them
is the man, just as the man is responsible for spendingon guests,
contributing to payment of ransom money, and spending onreconciling
between conflicting groups.
With regard to the testimony of two women being equivalent to the
testimony of one man in some cases, that is because women tend to be
more forgetful than men because of their natural cycles of
menstruation, pregnancy, giving birth, raising children etc. All these
things preoccupy them and make them forgetful. Hence the shar'i
evidence indicatesthat another women should reinforce a woman's
testimony, so that it will be more accurate. But there are matters
that pertain onlyto women in which the testimony of a single woman is
sufficient, such as determining how often a child was breastfed,
faults that may affect marriage, and so on.
Women are equal with men in terms of reward, remaining steadfast in
faith and doing righteous deeds, in enjoying a good life in this world
and a great reward in the Hereafter. Allaah says (interpretation of
the meaning):
"Whoever works righteousness — whether male or female — while he (or
she) is a true believer (of Islamic Monotheism) verily, to him We will
give a good life (in this world with respect, contentment and lawful
provision), and We shall pay them certainly a reward in proportion to
the best ofwhat they used to do (i.e. Paradise in the Hereafter)"
[al-Nahl 16:97]
So we know that womenhave rights and duties, just as men have rights
and duties. There are matters which suit men so Allaah has made
themthe responsibility of men, just as there are manners which suit
women so He has made them the responsibility of women.
And Allaah is the Source of strength.

Dought & clear, - The Muslim Woman, - • Necessity of a mahram to accompany a woman when she travels, even ifit is a short trip.

We live in the country. Sometimes I like to visit my uncle who lives
in a city that is 50 km furtherthan us. I have to use mixed
transportation and go alone because my father thinks it is very
expensive to use transportation. He leaves the matter of meeting my
uncle or notup to me. There is no other place I can go to. I visit my
uncle every 5-8 months. Am I allowed to travel without a mahram?.
Praise be to Allaah.
The saheeh Sunnah indicates that it is not permissible for a womanto
travel without a mahram. This includes both long trips and shorttrips,
according to the majority of scholars. Everything that is called
travelling is forbidden for a woman unless she has a mahram with her.
Al-Bukhaari (1792) and Muslim (2391) narrated that Ibn 'Abbaas (may
Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Prophet(peace and blessings of
Allaah be upon him) said: 'No woman should travel except with a
Mahram, and no man should enter upon a woman unless her Mahram is with
her.' A man said, 'O Messenger of Allaah, I want to go out with
such-and-such an army and my wife wants to go to Hajj.' He said, 'Go
to Hajj with her.'"
Al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him)said in Sharh Saheeh Muslim,
explaining that travel here does not refer to a specific distance:
Everything that is called travelling, it is forbiddenfor a woman to do
without her husband or a mahram, whether it is three days, two days or
one day, or anything else, because of the hadeeth of Ibn 'Abbaas,
according to which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon
him) said: "No woman should travel without a mahram." Thisincludes
everything that is called travel. And Allaah knows best.
End quote.
And it says inFataawa al-Lajnah al-Daa'imah(17/339): It is haraam fora
woman to travel without a mahram in all cases, whether the journey is
long or short. End quote.
Based on this, if this distance is regarded by people in your country
as travelling, then it is not permissible for you to travel without a
mahram. But you will be rewarded for your intention, in sha Allaah,
and you can maintain ties with your uncle by telephone, and that will
be sufficient in sha Allaah.
And Allaah knows best.

Dought & clear, - The Muslim Woman, - • She is not allowed to wear hijab, so how can she go out to work and meet her needs?.

My question is about hijab. Women here are forbidden to wear hijab and
they are treated badly in addition to the fact that they are not
allowed to enter their workplaces or other places such as police
stations, so they have nochoice but to take off their hijab. What is
the solution, especially sincewe have to meet our own needs and
especially at work?.
Praise be to Allaah.
For a woman to wear hijab in front of non-mahram men is an obligation
that is indicated in the Qur'aan and Sunnah and by scholarly
consensus. It is not permissible for anyone to enjoin otherwise or to
prevent those who want to follow this command, otherwise he is going
against the command and laws of Allaah. Allaah says (interpretation of
the meaning):
"It is not for a believer, man or woman, when Allaah and His
Messengerhave decreed a matter that they should have any option in
their decision. And whoever disobeys Allaah and His Messenger, he has
indeed strayed into a plain error"
[al-Ahzaab 33:36]
"And whoever contradicts and opposes the Messenger (Muhammadصلى الله
عليه وسلم( after the right path has been shown clearly to him, and
follows other than the believers' way, We shall keep him in the path
he has chosen, and burn him in Hell — what an evil destination!"
[al-Nisa' 4:115]
"But no, by your Lord, they can have noFaith, until they make you (O
Muhammadصلى الله عليهوسلم( judge in all disputes between them,and find
in themselves no resistance against your decisions, and accept (them)
with full submission"
[al-Nisa' 4:65]
Secondly:
It is not permissible for awoman to be careless about this obligation
or to go out of her house with any part of her body uncovered, unless
she is forced to do so in a case of necessity that makes that which is
haraam permissible, such as if she is summoned to a police-station,
and she cannot avoid going there because that would result in harm to
herself or her property.
As for going out to work,if she does not have to do that because what
she is given by her husband or father or other relative who is obliged
to support her issufficient for her, then it is not permissible for
herto go out to work if that will result in her taking off her hijab.
The Muslims have to cooperate with regard to this matter and ensure
that Muslim women are independentof means so that they are not
compelled to go out in ways that involve sin. That may be achieved by
calling on fathers and relatives to spend generously on them and to
provide some useful work that women can do in their homes, so that
they will have no need to go out for any reason that may lead to them
taking off their hijab and exposingthem to harm because ofwearing it.
This depends on convincing the men that hijaab is obligatory, because
many of them do not care about that, and some of them are keen for
their wives and daughters to go out and work, and some of them will
not agree to marry awoman who does not work, even if her work means
that she has to take off the hijaab. This ignorance and shortcoming on
the part of the men is one of the greatest causes of this problem, and
one of the reasons why the matter is not being resolved. We should
strive to spread this knowledge, remind people of it and train them to
follow it, so that every man will bekeen to protect his family and
dependents, and will realize that he will be questioned tomorrow about
this trust – did he take care of it or not? The Prophet(peace and
blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "There is no personto whom
Allaah entrusts the care of others and he does not take care of them
sincerely, but he will not even smell the fragrance of Paradise."
Narrated by al-Bukhaari (7150) and Muslim (142).
In fact, Muslims are individually obliged to strive to remove this
evil,and to adopt all the necessary means of achieving that, through
organizations and associations etc., so as torelieve their women of
hardship and enable every Muslim woman to wear her hijab. They should
not despair and give up on doing this duty. How many rights have been
restored to people by means of patience, effort and striving.
Thirdly:
If a woman is in dire straits and cannot find any alternative to going
out to work because she has no one to support her, and she is also
forced to take off the hijab, then if she is able to migrate to a land
where she will be able to practise her religion openly and obey the
commands of her Lord, she is obliged to do so.
Ibn al-'Arabi said inAhkaam al-Qur'aan(1/612):
Migration (hijrah) from dar al-kufr (kaafir lands) to dar al-Islam
(Muslim lands) is obligatory.
And from a land where innovation is widespread. Imam Maalik (may
Allaah have mercy on him) said: It is not permissible for anyone to
settle in a land in which the salaf are reviled.
And from a land in which haraam things areprevalent, for seeking
halaal is an obligation for every Muslim.
But not everyone may beable to migrate, and it cannot be regarded as a
solution for all Muslim women.
If a women really needs to go out of her house towork or do some
errands etc, and the matter is limited to uncovering the face only,
then we hope that there is nothing wrong with her doing that.
But we must strive to solve this problem completely, as stated above,
by advising thosewho are in positions of responsibility and askingthem
for this religious and personal right. The daa'iyahs who call people
to Allaah and the scholars have to explain to the people that hijab is
an obligation that Allaah has enjoined upon the Muslim women.
It is very strange that wesee this intense war against hijab, the
symbolof chastity and purity, and at the same time wesee that the door
is wideopen for immoral and promiscuous women.
Be patient, O believing women, for the reward of Allaah is precious
and there will come a day in which the religion of Allaah will prevail
over all other religions.
"It is He Who has sent HisMessenger (Muhammadصلى الله عليه وسلم(
withguidance and the religion of truth )Islam(, to make it superior
over all religions even thoughthe Mushrikoon)polytheists, pagans,
idolaters, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allaah( hate )it("
[al-Tawbah 9:33]
"And Allaah has full power and control over His Affairs, but most of
men know not" [Yoosuf 12:21
We ask Allaah to guide this ummah so that people of obedience willbe
honoured and peopleof disobedience will be humiliated, , and to help
you and all the Muslim women to adhere to hijab and give up wanton
display and unveiling.
And Allaah knows best.

Power and Worth of Bismillah: I can walk on water

Syed Murtadha was a great aalim (scholar) wholived many years ago. He
had many students who attended his classes.
At one of his classes he noticed that one of the students always came
late. One day Syed Murtadha asked the student "Why are you always
late?"
The student replied that he lived across the river and always took the
first ferry across but the ferry service did not start any earlier.
Syed Murtadha wrote something on a piece of paper, folded it and
gaveit to the student. "Keep this with you" he said"and you will be
able to walk across the river from tomorrow - but do not open the
paper."
The next day the student got to the river and put his foot tentatively
on the water. He could not believe that he could actually walk on the
water.
For the next few days, he got to the classes on time.
One day, he could not hold back his curiosity. He looked inside the
folded piece of paper. Onit was written Bismillahirrahmanirrahim (In
the name of Allah, the beneficent the merciful).
For a moment he thought- "Is this all that helps me walk on water!" He
put the paper in his pocket asusual and went to the river to go to his
classes. This time he could not walk on the water and had to wait for
the ferry. This meant that he was late for his class.
When the class was over, Syed Murtadha called himover and said "You
looked into the paper when I had told you not to!"
With Bismillahirrahmanirrahim (In the name of Allah, the beneficent
the merciful) you can move mountains provided you have trust and faith
in Allah.

Worth and Significance of Bismillah: Ring in the Stomach of the Fish

There was once a lady who always said Bismillahirrahmanirrahim (In the
name of Allah, the beneficent the merciful) before she did anything.
She knew that Allah would then always be with her. One day, sheput her
ring in the cupboard and as usual she said Bismillahirrahmanirrahim
(In the name of Allah, the beneficent the merciful) before she put it
away. She knew that it would be safe.
Her husband took the ring and threw it in the river. He wanted to
proveto her that only saying Bismillahirrahmanirrahim (In the name of
Allah, the beneficent the merciful) would not keepit safe. He thought
that inthe evening he would ask her where the ring was and it would
not be there.
Later that morning, the lady went to the market to buy some fish. When
she was cleaning the fish at home she found her ring inside the
stomach of the fish. She wondered how it got there but then put it
backin its place in the cupboard saying Bismillahirrahmanirrahim (In
the name of Allah, the beneficent the merciful).
When her husband came back from work, he asked her where the ringwas.
She brought it from the cupboard. He was so surprised!
He told her what he had done and apologized to her. He also truly
believed that Allah is with the person who
saysBismillahirrahmanirrahim (In the name of Allah, the beneficent the
merciful) before he/she does anything.

Glowing Hatchet Fish

The eyes of marine creatures are mostly big and upwards allowing
them to see other beings passing from above.
By this way, enemies that look from bottom to top can immediately
distinguish the dark shadow of a being on the floor of natural light
coming from the sea surface.
This hatchet fish you see is tremendously equipped against its
enemies in dark waters.
It lives at depths between 200 meters and 1000 meters and displays
perfect camouflage.
When it goes down to the deeps, thanks to its slim and flat bodily
structure, it is difficult to distinguish it.
Its silver skin acts like a mirror and reflects the appearance of
the water, so it becomes almost invisible when it goes even deeper.
When it is close to the surface, it uses a different method to hide
itself from its enemies. Because under normal circumstances, every
creature in water appears like a shadow due to the light beams
falling underneath the sea, and therefore it sends an invitation to
the animal that wants to catch it.
Hatchet fish have bioluminescent photosphere limbs that can produce
bio-light. This limb is lined all along the pelvic cavity. These
lights are on at times when it is close to the surface.
Hatchet fish balances these bio-lighters with the light falling down
from the sea surface, and thus it avoids being seen as a shadow
against the light coming from the sea surface and becomes almost
invisible.
Now, it is a very important privilege that these light organs are in
the abdomen region. If these organs were in their backs instead of
their abdomens, the enemies that look at them from above would be
able to easily distinguish them on the dark surface of the sea
deeps.
However, just like it is difficult to distinguish a light bulb
turned on in the daylight, the light emitted by the glowing
creatures towards the right direction make it difficult for them to
be seen.
These perfect characteristics in the hatchet fish is one of the
beauties of our Almighty Lord Who Creates without any preceding
example.
The hatchet fish has possessed these features since the first moment
it was created, a 37-23 million year old hatchet fish fossil is
seen in the picture. It can be clearly seen that the hatchet fish
has not changed for millions of years.

Protein synthesis in the cell is a miracle

Every process in the body takes place by way of proteins. For that
reason, every cell needs protein at every moment.
As a result, protein needs to be manufactured in the body every second.
The place in the cell where protein is manufactured is the DNA.
When any of the 100 trillion or so cells in the body needs protein,
a message is sent to the DNA by way of hormones.
The proteins in DNA, in other words enzymes, go into action in order
to take the code necessary for the protein to be manufactured from
the DNA.
The way that enzymes find the information needed to be able to
manufacture a single protein is like trying to FIND A SINGLE PAGE in
an encyclopedia of 1,000 volumes.
That part of the DNA containing this code is opened up. Enzymes
open up the relevant part of the helix and hold it open as far as
the end of the section the relevant code will be extracted from.
There is no need for any other sections to be opened up.
While these enzymes hold open the edges of the section needed for
the code, another enzyme arrives on the scene and produces a copy
of the section in question.
The extracted copy is called "messenger RNA." The messenger RNA sets
out for the factory where the protein is to be manufactured.
The messenger RNA carefully transports the copy and leaves the
nucleus. There are gatekeepers waiting at the exit from the nucleus
during this stage. They decide what can enter the nucleus or not and
open the gate accordingly. The gate is always opened for messenger
RNA.
The messenger RNA takes the copy and departs the nucleus, carrying
the copy directly to the ribosome, the factory where the new
protein is to be manufactured.
The messenger RNA binds to the relevant part of the ribosome and
begins preparations for the manufacture of new protein.
In order for production to take place in the ribosome, the factory
in other words, raw materials have to be brought in and installed
in line with the code.
These raw materials are amino acids. These are brought in by
"transfer RNA." The amino acids are brought in and establish a
glorious protein chain, consisting of at least a hundred sequences
each.
Amino acids bind to one another with special chemical bonds known
as "peptide bonds." These chemical bonds are some of the most
powerful bonds of all. Proteins therefore have a very sound
structure and are not easily damaged by external factors.
The way these amino acids are arranged determines the nature of that
protein. It is therefore exceedingly important which amino acid
follows which in the sequence. Enzymes never make a mistake as they
establish the sequence. After the new protein chain has been
manufactured, it is sent to a special section in the factory, in the
ribosome in other words, where it assumes a special three-
dimensional form through being folded and pleated in various ways.
This three-dimensional shape created by this folding and pleating
determines the nature of the protein. Unless it is given a special
shape the protein cannot function, even if the sequence is
completely accurate.
When the chain assumes its three-dimensional form, the process is
now complete. A new protein has been built. When the new protein
departs this special section, an enzyme arrives on the scene. It
picks up the newly constructed protein and carries it right to
where it is needed in the cell.
The protein synthesis process, described here in very general terms,
takes place in every cell, 2,000 times per second. All the
components know just what to do as they carry out the process. Not
a single enzyme fails to reach its target and objective; production
never goes wrong inside the factory; the special folding of the new
protein chain is never forgotten; the messengers never get lost.
The cell is aware of the importance and delicate nature of this
production at every moment.
They know, because every part of the cell acts under our Lord's
inspiration at every moment. Every enzyme, every amino acid and
every atom that goes to make them up is a manifestation of Almighty
Allah's infinite power and omniscience. Everything has bowed its
head to our Almighty Lord, Lord and Ruler of all the worlds, He Who
is omnipresent at all times. Everything is in His knowledge and all
things have submitted to Him. Creating all these worlds from nothing
is a most easy matter for Allah the Merciful.
Everything in the heavens and everything in the earth belongs to
Him. Allah is the Rich Beyond Need, the Praiseworthy.(Surat al-Haj,
64)

Allah, the infinitely merciful, protects us from giant meteoroids hurtling toward the Earth

As you read this article, the upper layer of the atmosphere is being
bombarded by meteors.
Millions of meteoroids in the vastness of space represent a major
threat to the Earth.
A meteor could fall to Earth at any moment, maybe in the exact
region you are in now.
And that could mean the end of all mankind. Under the effect of such
an impact, earthquakes, fires and volcanic eruptions would follow
hard on one another's heels, and no life would remain on Earth.
But have you ever thought that a meteor could be hurtling toward
where you are at this very moment?
A GIANT METEOROID IS APPROACHING THE EARTH
A recent report announced that a meteoroid weighing 55 million tons
is speeding toward the Earth.
It was announced that this giant meteoroid, discovered by
astronomers 6 years ago, will pass close by the Earth on 8 November,
2011.
It has been calculated that this meteoroid, which will pass by the
Earth at a distance of 35,000 km, making it the closest ever.
If this meteoroid, known as YU55, were to hit the Earth, it would do
so with the impact of a 65,000 ton atom bomb and leave a crater 600
meters deep.
Many meteoroids have passed close by the Earth in previous years.
On 15 March, 2002, a meteoroid measuring 50 to 100 meters in
diameter came within 450,000 kilometers of the Earth. Had it hit, it
would have caused an explosion equivalent to a nuclear bomb going
off.
On 22 June, 2002, a meteoroid the size of a football pitch came even
closer, passing by the Earth at a distance of 120,000 kilometers and
at a speed of 37,000 kilometers an hour.
Do not forget that if just one of these meteoroids had hit the Earth
instead of passing by it, you would in all probability not be
watching this film today.
But our Almighty Lord protects us from this danger with His infinite
love. That protection is one of the manifestations of His infinite
compassion.
Allah reveals in the Holy Qur'an that all things survive solely
because Allah so desires: I seek Refuge in Allah from the accursed
satan
Allah keeps a firm hold on the heavens and earth, preventing them
from vanishing away. And if they vanished no one could then keep
hold of them. Certainly He is Most Forbearing, Ever-Forgiving.
(Surat al-Fatir, 41)
There is no doubt that Allah is mighty enough to destroy the entire
universe when He so wishes. Allah has appointed an hour for the Day
of Reckoning, which will spell the end of this world, and the
meteoroids surrounding the Earth are hurtling rapidly in the
direction of that hour.
I seek Refuge in Allah from the accursed satan
Mankind, have taqwa of your Lord! The quaking of the Hour is a
terrible thing... the Hour is coming without any doubt and Allah
will raise up all those in the graves. (Surat al-Hajj, 1,7)
With the coming of Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh), Allah has initiated the
process by which mankind will turn toward the moral values of the
Qur'an for the last time. Hundreds of thousands of meteoroids have
surrounded the Earth like a cloud, all ready to strike it at any
moment. As revealed in the hadiths, Hijri 1400 is the date of the
coming of Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh). There has been the most enormous
increase in the numbers of meteoroids around the Earth in the 30
years between Hijri 1400, or 1980, and 2010. It is noteworthy that
the number has increased particularly rapidly since 1999.
A verse referring to the rise in meteoroids in 1999 reads:
I seek Refuge in Allah from the accursed satan
If they saw a lump of heaven falling down, they would just say,
'Banked-up clouds!' (Surat at-Tur, 44)
Abjad calculation of this verse gives a date of 1999. The way that
meteoroids began increasing in number as of 1980 and that this rise
continued to climb extraordinarily rapidly until the end of 1999 are
some of the portents of the Day of Reckoning. Allah knows the truth.

Fathwa, - Niqab and loneliness

Question:
I was 14 when i decided to wear the niqaab and I moved to another
country at 15 and now at 16, I'm starting to feel doubts about wearing
it. To start off with, I'm mixed race and for some reason or the other
i don't feel fully accepted by my father's family (who are all
Pakistani) and we don't have a lot of contact with my maternal side,
although they're wary of us as they're not Muslim. Anyway, I've been
bothered by a sense of alienation for quite some time now. Having
spent the last two years in loneliness(being an introverted person i
find it hard to establish new friendship .... So, with no friends and
no family who I can rely on, I'm quite lonely... Although Allah should
be enough for me.
I started wearing the niqaab when my brother, who was in Jordan, told
me that the ladies in his area all wear niqaab, so i said i would wear
niqaab too and i didn'ttake it off after that. I returned to England
and i continued to wear it. Alhumdulillah,I've never
encounteredanything other than verbal abuse - Allah has protected me
Alhumdulillah.
But this feeling of alienation has been bothering me increasingly as
of late.... I'm so confused and this confusion is emotionally
exhausting. What do i do?
Answer:
In the Name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful.
Dear Sister,
I pray you are in good health and iman.
Thank you for your message. I apologize for the delay in responding.
Dear sister,
Wearing niqab is a good thing to do if it gives youpeace of mind.
However, please keep in mind that you are not shirking your obligation
to Allah Ta'ala if you remove yourniqab. I understand that you were
inspired by theexample of the women in Jordan.
However, if you allow me, I suggest that not every woman has the same
experience wearing niqab. A woman's ability to wear niqab is often
contingentupon her environment. Some environments are very welcoming.
Others are not. I'm not sure what your environment is like in
Pakistan. However, I do know that wearing niqab in the West is very
difficult. Some of the scholars on SunniPath, most notably Shaykh Nuh
Keller, caution against wearing niqab in the West [generally]. Why?
Because women who wear niqab in places likeAmerica and Europe often
experience the very alienation and verbal abuse that you describe.
What is most important is establishing your own relationship with
Allah Ta'ala, not so much based on what other women do, but on your
own personal convictions. Your obligation is to wear hijab: to cover
your bodywith modest, loose-fitting clothing. You are allowed to show
your face, hands, and feet (according to the Hanafi School). Focus on
fulfilling this obligation first. At the same time, focus on your
relationship with Allah Ta'ala. Be constant in reading the Qur'an.
Makeremembrance of Allah. Ask Him for guidance and comfort. You should
definitely make salat al-istikhara, or the guidance prayer in this
situation.
_______________________________________________Dear Sister, please try
to find some friends. Don't think that wearing niqabis preventing you
from making friends. It soundslike the problem is more an issue of
cultural alienation. Learning something of the people's language and
customs probably wouldn't hurt and might help you to adjust better.
Last but not least, why not try to make some inroads with your family
in Pakistan and back in the West. Even some basic communication might
help, such as a letter, a card, or even a phone call. Whatever youdo,
please keep in mind that wearing niqab and having a good relationship
with your family are separate issues.
Don't feel guilty for wanting to take off your niqab. It's possible
that now is not the best time to wear niqab. It's completely natural
for you to feel lonely. The main point is to try to remedy your
loneliness while drawing closer to Allah Ta'ala.
Here's a beautiful Hadith Qudsi in that spirit:
Hadith Qudsi 25:
On the authority of Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him), who
said that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon
him) said:
"Allah (mighty and sublime be He) said:
'Whosoever shows enmity to someone devoted to Me, I shall be at war
with him. My servant draws not near to Me with anything more loved by
Me than the religious duties I have enjoined upon him,and My servant
continuesto draw near to Me with supererogatory works sothat I shall
love him. When I love him I am his hearing with which he hears, his
seeing with which he sees, his hand with which he strikes and his foot
with which he walks. Were he to ask [something] of Me, I would surely
give it to him, and were he to ask Me for refuge, I would surely grant
him it. I do not hesitate about anything as much as I hesitate about
[seizing] the soul of My faithful servant: he hates death and I hate
hurting him.'"
May Allah Ta'ala facilitatea beneficial solution for you and give you
good friends.
And Allah knows best.

Fathwa, - Prayer> Istikhara: The Guidance Prayer

Question:
Several people I know are confused on the topic of salat ul-
Istikhara. Is it meant to be prayed several days in a row until a
decision is made, or only once? Is it meant to be prayed after one
has pretty much made up their mind, or whensomeone hasn't really
figured out what to do? Are their various valid opinions?
Answer:
Assalamu alaikum,
When one is not clear about the result of the istikhara, the fuqaha
mention that it is recommend to repeat it, upto 7 times if necessary
(usually done on separate occasions). [cf: Radd al-Muhtar]
It is not necessary that you get a dream or even a "feeling." Rather,
the istikhara is a prayer that Allah guide you towards that which is
best (khayr)for you. If you do the prayer of guidance (istikhara) with
the proper manners, the most important of which is to truly consign
the matter to Allah and suspend your own inclinations, then Allah will
make events unfold in the direction that is the best for your worldly
and next-worldly affairs.
In general, when it is notpossible to perform the istikhara prayer
itself (such as when one is out on the road, or in one's menstrual
period), it is recommended to simply read the dua itself. [Radd
al-Muhtar]
The istikhara prayer may be made for a specific matter or be made for
a general seeking of all that is best. Some scholars, including Imam
Abd al-Wahhab al-Sha`rani and Ibn `Arafah before him saw this kind of
istikhara prayer as being superior.Others, including Shaykh Ibn
al-Arabi, recommended performing a general istikhara prayer for all
that is good every day, ideally at the time of the Duha prayer (after
sunrise).
Imam al-Nawawi mentioned that before the istikhara prayer, one should
seek advice (istishara) from those whose knowledge, wisdom, and
concern one is confident. Ibn Hajar al-Haytami and others mentioned
that one of the benefits of this is to further distanceoneself from
the desires of one's own egotistic inclinations.
It is recommended to open the dua of istikhara[below], with praise of
Allah and sending blessings on the Prophet (Allah bless him & give him
peace), and to close it in this manner, too.
Like other duas, it is recommended that one face the qibla.
It is disliked to 'hasten' inseeking the answer to one's istikhara,
like otherduas, because the Prophet (Allah bless him& give him peace)
said,"Your prayers are answered, unless you hasten, saying, 'I prayed,
but no answer came.'"
One should be pleased with what Allah chooses for one, and not seek to
follow one's whims after the answer to one's supplication becomes
clear.
There is a pious lady in our community who has offered to pray
istikhara for me to help me make a decision for marriage.... [ .... ]
my question to you is if you know if this idea of relying on someone
else's istikhara is a good idea and compatible with the teachings of
Islam on how to make dua and decisions. should I follow her advice
(according to her dreams and feelings) to me on this issue or not?
This is one means you can take: to seek the istikhara of a pious
person. The permissibility of this was mentioned explicitly by the
Malikis and Shafi`is. The Hanafis do not appear to have discussedthis
issue [al-Mawsu`a al-Fiqhhiyya,Kuwait], butthere is nothing in it
thatwould indicate its impermissibility. Rather, it is merely the
taking of a means, which is permitted as long as one knows that the
one who gives and takes, benefits and harms is Allah alone.
In such cases, though, one should not leave doing the istikhara oneself...
Salat al-Istikhara
CONCERNING THE RITUAL PRAYER FOR GUIDANCE IN CHOOSING THE BEST OPTION
[SALAT AL-ISTIKHARA], AND THE PRAYER OF SUPPLICATION [DU'A']
APPROPRIATE TO IT.
According to a traditional report transmitted on the authority of
Muhammad ibn al-Munkadir, it was Jabir ibn 'Abdi'llah (may Allah be
well pleased with him and with his father) who said:
"Allah's Messenger (Allah bless him and give him peace) used to teach
us how to seek guidance in choosing the best optionavailable in a
practical enterprise [al-istikhara fi'l-amr], just as he would
sometimes teach us a Chapter [Sura] from the Qur'an. :
"'If one of you is concerned about some practical undertaking, orabout
making plans for ajourney, he should perform two cycles of ritual
prayer [rak'atain], not as an obligatory observance [farida], but
voluntarily. Then he should say:
'"O Allah, I ask You to show me what is best, through Your knowledge,
and I ask You to empower me, through Your power, and I beg You to
grant me Your tremendous favor, for You have power, while I am without
power, and You have knowledge, while I am without knowledge, and You
are the One whoknows all things invisible.
Allahumma inni astakhiru-ka bi-'ilmi-ka wa astaqdiru-ka bi-qudrati-ka
wa as'alu-ka min fadli-ka 'l-'azim fa-inna-ka taqdiru wa la aqdiru wa
ta'lamu wa la a'lamu wa Anta 'Allamu 'l-ghuyub :
O Allah, if You know that this undertaking is in thebest interests of
my religion, my life in this world, and my life in the Hereafter, and
can yield successful results in both the short term and the long term,
then make it possible for me and make it easy for me, and then bless
me in it.
Allahumma in kunta ta'lamu anna hadha 'l-amra khairun li fi dini wa
dunyaya wa akhirati wa 'aqibati amri wa 'ajili-hi wa
ajili-h:fa-'qdir-hu li wa yassir-hu li thumma barik li fi-h:
If not, then turn it away from me, and make it easy for me to do well,
wherever I may happen to be, and make me content with Your verdict, O
Most Merciful of the merciful.'"
wa illa fa-'srif-hu 'an-ni wa yassir liya 'l-khaira haithu kana ma
kuntu wa raddi-ni bi-qada'i-ka ya Arhama 'r-rahimin :
The information presented here is copyright of Al-Baz Publishing, Inc.
and may not be reproduced by any means for distribution or commercial
gain.
Copyright holder grants to reader license to print single copy for
personal use or study
only._______________________________________________The South African
Jamiatul Ulama Transvaalcollected this:
The Etiquette of Du'�
These etiquettes are narrated in the Hadith. For reasons of brevity,
only the following summary and reference of each Hadith is mentioned
instead of theentire Hadith.
To abstain from haraam food, clothing and earnings. (Muslim : Tirmidhi)
To make Duaa with sincerity. In other words,one should firmly
believethat nobody but Allah Ta'aala will fulfill his objectives.
(Haakim)
One should perform a good deed prior to making the Duaa & he should
mention this during the course of the Duaa. For e.g. He should say, O
Allah! I had performed so & so deed solely for Your pleasure. O Allah!
accept my Duaa due to the barkat of that deed. (Muslim, Tirmidhi, Abu
Dawud).
To make Duaa whilst oneis paak & clean. (Tirmidhi, Abu Dawud, Ibn
Majah, Nasai, Ibn Hibbaan, Mustadrak).
To make wudhu before the Duaa (All six major hadith collections)
To face the Qiblah (All six major hadith collections)
To sit as in the Tashahhud position (AbuAwanah)
To praise Allah Ta'aala at the beginning as well as at the end of Duaa
(All sixmajor hadith collections)
To convey Durood upon Rasulullah ( ) at the beginning as well as the
end. (Abu Dawud, Musnade-Ahmad)
To spread out both the hands. (Tirmidhi, Mustadrak)
To raise both the hands up to the shoulders (Abu Dawud, Musnade-Ahmad)
To sit with humility and respect. (Muslim, Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi, Abu Dawud)
To mention ones helplessness and dependence. (Tirmidhi)
To abstain from raising the eyes towards the sky whilst making Duaa (Muslim)
To mention the Asmaal-Husnaa (the names of Allah Ta'aala ) and the
sublime qualities Of AllahTa'aala. (Ibn Hibbaan and Mustadrak)
To abstain from ceremonies rhyming of the Duaa phrases (Bukhari)
To abstain from saying the Duaa in a "sing-song" tone if the Duaa is
in a poetic form (Hisn)
One should make Duaa through the medium of the Ambiyaa
(alayhimus-salaam) and other Pious servants. (For e.g. He should say.
O Allah! Accepts my Duaa throughThe good offices of thesesaintly
people). (Bukhari,Bazzaar, Haakim)
To make the Duaa in a soft voice (All six major hadith collections on
the authority if Abu Musa )
To utter the Duaa phrases transcribed fromRasulullah Sallalahu Alayhi
Wasallam because Rasulullah Didn't leave out a single need of the Deen
nor of the dunya whilst teaching us how to make Duaa (Abu Dawud/Nasai)
To make a Duaa that encompasses most of theneeds of Deen and the
dunya. (Abu Dawud)
To make Duaa in favour of oneself first, thereafter ones parents and
to include the other Muslims in the Duaa as well (Muslims)
If the Imam is making Duaa, he should not make Duaa for himself only
but he should Include all the congregants in the Duaa (Abu Dawud,
Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah)
Abu Dawud (R.A.) Narrates that Rasulullah Said that the Imam who makes
Duaa for himself only, has betrayed the people." In other words, the
Imam should not Make a Duaa that is restricted to him alone. For e.g.
He should not say, "O Allah! cure my son." or "O Allah! Return my lost
item." etc. but he should make a Duaa that includes all the
congregation for e.g. He may say "O Allah! Forgive us and have mercy
upon us."
To make Duaa with firm conviction (for e.g. he should not say: "O
Allah! If you wish fulfil so and so task of mine." (All six major
hadith collections)
To make Duaa with enthusiasm & yearning. (Ibn Hibbn & Abu Awana).
As far as possible endeavour to bring about a "presence of heart and
mind" and cherish a high hope of the Duaa being accepted.(Haakim)
To make Duaa repeatedly. (Bukhari, Muslim)
This repetition should beat least thrice (Abu Dawud)
Note One may repeat the Duaa thrice in none sitting or he may repeat
it on three different occasions. The"repetition of the Duaa" can be
interpreted in both ways."
To make Duaa earnestly and insistently. (Nasai, Hakim, Abu awanah)
To abstain from making Duaa of severing family ties or other sins.
(Muslim, Tirmidhi)
Avoid making Duaas of pre-determined and fixed things (for e.g. woman
should not make a duaa of being transformed into a man or a tall
person shouldn'tmake Duaa thus: "O Allah!Make me short ." etc)
(Nasai).
Don't Make Duaa for impossible things. (Bukhari)
Don't make a Duaa in which you ask Allah Ta'aala to confine His mercy
to yourself Only (Bukhari, Abu Dawud, Nasai, Ibn Majah)
Ask only Allah Ta'aala alone for all your needs. Do not depend upon
His creation. (Tirmidhi/Ibn Hibbaan)
The one making the Duaa as well as the person listening to it, both
should say Aameen at the end. (Bukhari, Muslim, Abu Dawud, Nasai)
Rub both hands over the face at the termination of the Duaa (Abu
Dawud, Tirmidhi, Ibn Hibbaan, Majah, Hakim)
Don't be impatient over the acceptance of Duaas. In other words, don't
say: "I've made Duaa repeatedly but to no avail." (Bukhari, Muslim,
Abu Dawud, Nasai, Ibn Majah)
Wassalam,