Salaat Time

Ayaat 195-203 ~ Al-Baqarah (The Cow)

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

195. And spend in the Cause of Allâh and do not throw yourselves into destruction (by not spending your wealth in the Cause of Allâh), and do good. Truly, Allâh loves Al-Muhsinûn (the good-doers).

196. And perform properly (i.e. all the ceremonies according to the ways of Prophet Muhammad(SAWS)), the Hajj and ‘Umrah (i.e. the pilgrimage to Makkah) for Allâh. But if you are prevented (from completing them), sacrifice a Hady (animal, i.e. a sheep, a cow, or a camel, etc.) such as you can afford, and do not shave your heads until the Hady reaches the place of sacrifice. And whosoever of you is ill or has an ailment in his scalp (necessitating shaving), he must pay a Fidyah (ransom) of either observing Saum (fasts) (three days) or giving Sadaqah (charity – feeding six poor persons) or offering sacrifice (one sheep). Then if you are in safety and whosoever performs the ‘Umrah in the months of Hajj, before (performing) the Hajj, (i.e. Hajj-at-Tamattu’ and Al-Qirân), he must slaughter a Hady such as he can afford, but if he cannot afford it, he should observe Saum (fasts) three days during the Hajj and seven days after his return (to his home), making ten days in all. This is for him whose family is not present at Al-Masjid-al-Harâm (i.e. non-resident of Makkah). And fear Allâh much and know that Allâh is Severe in punishment.

197. The Hajj (pilgrimage) is (in) the well-known (lunar year) months (i.e. the 10th month, the 11th month and the first ten days of the 12th month of the Islâmic calendar, i.e. two months and ten days). So whosoever intends to perform Hajj therein by assuming Ihrâm), then he should not have sexual relations (with his wife), nor commit sin, nor dispute unjustly during the Hajj. And whatever good you do, (be sure) Allâh knows it. And take a provision (with you) for the journey, but the best provision is At-Taqwa (piety, righteousness, etc.). So fear Me, O men of understanding!

198. There is no sin on you if you seek the Bounty of your Lord (during pilgrimage by trading, etc.). Then when you leave ‘Arafât, remember Allâh (by glorifying His Praises, i.e. prayers and invocations, etc.) at the Mash’ar-il-Harâm. And remember Him (by invoking Allâh for all good, etc.) as He has guided you, and verily, you were, before, of those who were astray.

199. Then depart from the place whence all the people depart and ask Allâh for His Forgiveness. Truly, Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most-Merciful.

200. So when you have accomplished your Manasik [(i.e. Ihrâm, Tawâf of the Ka’bah and As-Safâ and Al-Marwah), stay at ‘Arafât, Muzdalifah and Mina, Ramy of Jamarât, (stoning of the specified pillars in Mina) slaughtering of Hady (animal, etc.)]. Remember Allâh as you remember your forefathers or with a far more remembrance. But of mankind there are some who say: “Our Lord! Give us (Your Bounties) in this world!” and for such there will be no portion in the Hereafter.

201. And of them there are some who say: “Our Lord! Give us in this world that which is good and in the Hereafter that which is good, and save us from the torment of the Fire!”

202. For them there will be alloted a share for what they have earned. And Allâh is Swift at reckoning.

203. And remember Allâh during the appointed Days. But whosoever hastens to leave in two days, there is no sin on him and whosoever stays on, there is no sin on him, if his aim is to do good and obey Allâh (fear Him), and know that you will surely be gathered unto Him.

Sura 2. Al-Baqarah (The Cow)

Commentary ~ Profound Saying of Ibn Qayyim

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Ibn Qayyim (May Allah be pleased with him) said: “When the slave wakes up as the night encloses him and his only concern is Allah and how to please and obey Him, then Allah takes upon Him to fulfill all of his needs and remove from him all that causes him anxiety. Allah also makes his heart free to love Him only, his tongue free to remember Him only and his body free to serve Him only. However, when a slave of Allah wakes up when the night encloses him and his main concern is the world, Allah will make him bear the burdens of its anxiety, grief and hardship. Allah will entrust him to his own self and He will make his heart busy, sealing it from His love since it will be preoccupied with love for creation. Allah will keep his tongue from His remembrance because it will be engaged with His creation; his body will be kept from obedience since it will be enslaved by its desires and services. And he will toil like a beast of burden toils in the service of another. And all who turn away from the worship, obedience and love of Allah, will be put into trial with the worship, service and love for creation.” Allah (the Exalted) says:

And whosoever turns away (blinds himself) from the remembrance of the Most Beneficent (Allah) (i.e. this Qur’an and worship of Allah), We appoint for him Shaitan (Satan ­ devil) to be a Qarîn (an intimate companion) to him. (Koran 43.36)

Ibn Qayyim continues to say: “Seek out your heart in three situations: first, when you are listening to the Qur’an; second, when you are part of a gathering of remembrance; third, when you are alone and away from the world and it’s distractions. If you cannot find your heart in these three situations, then ask Allah to bestow upon you a heart, for indeed you are bereft of one.”

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Ayaat 1-13 ~ Al-Baqarah (The Cow)

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

1. Alif-Lâm-Mîm. [These letters are one of the miracles of the Qur’ân and none but Allah (Alone) knows their meanings].

2. This is the Book (the Qur’ân), whereof there is no doubt, a guidance to those who are Al-Muttaqûn [the pious and righteous persons who fear Allah much (abstain from all kinds of sins and evil deeds which He has forbidden) and love Allah much (perform all kinds of good deeds which He has ordained)].

3. Who believe in the Ghaib (Unseen) and perform As-Salât (Iqâmat-as-Salât), and spend out of what we have provided for them [i.e. give Zakât , spend on themselves, their parents, their children, their wives, etc., and also give charity to the poor and also in Allah’s Cause – Jihâd, etc.].

4. And who believe in (the Qur’ân and the Sunnah) which has been sent down (revealed) to you (Muhammad Peace be upon him ) and in [the Taurât (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel), etc.] which were sent down before you and they believe with certainty in the Hereafter. (Resurrection, recompense of their good and bad deeds, Paradise and Hell, etc.).

5. They are on (true) guidance from their Lord, and they are the successful.

6. Verily, those who disbelieve, it is the same to them whether you (O Muhammad Peace be upon him ) warn them or do not warn them, they will not believe.

7. Allah has set a seal on their hearts and on their hearings, (i.e. they are closed from accepting Allah’s Guidance), and on their eyes there is a covering. Theirs will be a great torment.

8. And of mankind, there are some (hypocrites) who say: “We believe in Allah and the Last Day” while in fact they believe not.

9. They (think to) deceive Allah and those who believe, while they only deceive themselves, and perceive (it) not!

10. In their hearts is a disease (of doubt and hypocrisy) and Allah has increased their disease. A painful torment is theirs because they used to tell lies.

11. And when it is said to them: “Make not mischief on the earth,” they say: “We are only peacemakers.”

12. Verily! They are the ones who make mischief, but they perceive not.

13. And when it is said to them (hypocrites): “Believe as the people (followers of Muhammad Peace be upon him , Al-Ansâr and Al-Muhajirûn) have believed,” they say: “Shall we believe as the fools have believed?” Verily, they are the fools, but they know not.

Sura 2. Al-Baqarah (The Cow)

Commentary ~ How to Commit a Sin

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Here is an anecdote of Ibrahim Edhem or rather Ibrahim ben Edhem ben Suleyman ben Mansour el-Balkhi. He was nicknamed Abu Izhaq. He died in the year 161 or 162 (778-779).

It is said that someone came to find Ibrahim and said to him: “O Ibrahim I have done to myself much harm, give me advice.” — Hear now my advice and do six things:

  • When you have committed a sin, deprive yourself of eating the food that the Lord Most High gives you. – But I could never do that interrupted the other. – What! Ibrahim replied. Is it just that you always enjoy the resources that the Lord Most High provides you, while you do not serve Him and you do not stop offending Him?

  • If you are about to commit a sin, get out from the Lord Most High’s kingdom. – But the man said, His kingdom extends from east to west; how do I get out? – Well, stay there then, but renounce sinning and no rebel no more.

  • When you go to sin, put yourself in a place where the Lord Most High does not see you. – But you cannot hide one single act from Him. – Well then, said Ibrahim, is it acceptable that you live on food that He provides you, that you live in His kingdom and commit bad deeds under His eyes?

  • When the Angel of Death will come to claim your soul, tell him: “Give me respite; I will do penance”. – But how can the Angel of Death hear such a proposal? – If so, said Ibrahim, then do penance now, so as not to repent when the Angel of Death comes.

  • Once in your last home (grave), push away from your person the Angels Munkir and Nekir (the two angels that will question us in our graves). – But I cannot do that. – Ok then it is necessary to practice good works to be able to answer these two interrogators.

  • On the Day of Resurrection, when a Sovereign Order commands to drive the sinners to Hell, say you will not go. – That is enough, Ibrahim, you have told me enough.”

And he did penance.

Ayaat 155-158 ~ Al-An’am (The Cattle)

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

155. And this is a blessed Book (the Qur’ân) which We have sent down, so follow it and fear Allâh (i.e. do not disobey His Orders), that you may receive mercy (i.e. saved from the torment of Hell).

156. Lest you should say: “The Book was only sent down to two sects before us (the Jews and the Christians), and for our part, we were in fact unaware of what they studied.”

157. Or lest you should say: “If only the Book had been sent down to us, we would surely have been better guided than they.” So now has come unto you a clear proof (the Qur’ân) from your Lord, and a guidance and a mercy. Who then does more wrong than one who rejects the Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) of Allâh and turns away therefrom? We shall requite those who turn away from Our Ayât with an evil torment, because of their turning away (from them).

158. Do they then wait for anything other than that the angels should come to them, or that your Lord should come, or that some of the Signs of your Lord should come (i.e. portents of the Hour e.g., arising of the sun from the west)! The day that some of the Signs of your Lord do come, no good will it do to a person to believe then, if he believed not before, nor earned good (by performing deeds of righteousness) through his Faith. Say: “Wait you! we (too) are waiting.”

Sura 6. Al-An’am (The Cattle)

Hadith ~ Ask your Heart

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Wabisah bin Ma’bad (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I went to Messenger of Allah (May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection) and he asked me, “Have you come to inquire about piety?” I replied in the affirmative. Then he said, “Ask your heart regarding it. Piety is that which contents the soul and comforts the heart, and sin is that which causes doubts and perturbs the heart, even if people pronounce it lawful and give you verdicts on such matters again and again.” (Ahmad and Ad-Darmi).

Commentary: There are two points about this Hadith. First, it is one of the miracles of Messenger of Allah (SAWS) who discovered the nature of the question before it was put to him. Second, man’s heart is the biggest guide to him and he, therefore, should keep his heart illuminated with the light of Faith so as to continue receiving guidance from it.

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Chapter 68, Page 193, No 591

Hadith ~ Gravest of Cardinal Sins

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Abu Bakrah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (SAWS) said, “Shall I not inform you of one of the gravest of the cardinal sins?’ We said: “Yes, O Messenger of Allah!’ The Prophet (SAWS) said, “To join others as partners with Allah in worship and to be undutiful to one’s parents.’ The Messenger of Allah (SAWS) sat up from his reclining position (in order to stress the importance of what he was going to say) and added, “I warn you making a false statement and giving a false testimony. I warn you against making a false statement and giving a false testimony.’ The Messenger of Allah (SAWS) kept on repeating this (warning) till we wished he should stop. (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Commentary: The contents of this Hadith make the gravity of making a false statement abundantly clear. How unfortunate indeed it is that, like other major sins, the evil of giving false testimony is very common among the present-day Muslims. May Allah prevent us from it.

SAWS: May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Chapter 263, Page 447, No 1550

Commentary ~ He sinned for a long time but then repented

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

It has been related that during the time of Musa (Moses) (PBUH), the Children of Israel were afflicted with a drought. The people went to Musa (PBUH) and said, “O one who has spoken to Allah, invoke your Lord to provide us with rain.” He, accompanied by the people, went out to the desert; they numbered 70,000 or more. Musa (PBUH) supplicated for rain and for Allah’s Mercy, but nothing happened, except that the sky seemed to be even drier and the sun seemed more oppressive with its heat.

Musa (PBUH) was surprised and asked his Lord for the reason behind that. Allah inspired to him, “Indeed, among you is a slave who has been challenging Me with sins for the past forty years. Call out to the people until he comes out from among them, for because of him you were prevented (from rain).” Musa (PBUH) said, “My Lord, I am a weak slave and my voice is weak. How can my voice convey (to them) when they are 70,000 or more in number?” Allah inspired to him, “From you is the call and from Us is its conveyance.” Musa stood as a caller and said, “O sinning slave, who has challenged Allah with sins for the last forty years: come out from among us, for because of you, we have been deprived from rain. The said sinner turned to the left and to the right, seeing no one coming out from among them, which made him realize that he was the one who was wanted. He spoke to himself, “If I come forth from among this group of creation, then I will have exposed myself. But if I sit with them, then they will be deprived because of me.” He put his head in his garment, regretting his evil deeds. He said, “My Lord, I have disobeyed You for forty years and You have given me respite. I have come to You in obedience, so accept from me.” He no sooner finished his speech than a white cloud appeared and the rain came down in abundance. Musa (PBUH) said, “My Lord, why did You give us drink when none from among us came out?” Allah said, “O Musa, I have given you rain because of the same man who was the reason why I prevented you from rain (i.e., the man who repented).” Musa (PBUH) said, “My Lord, let me see this obedient slave.” Allah said, “O Musa, I did not expose him when he was disobeying Me, then do you expect Me to expose him while he is obedient to Me?”

PBUH: peace be upon him

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Ayaat 37-42 ~ Az-Zumar (The Groups)

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

37. And whomsoever Allâh guides, for him there will be no misleader. Is not Allâh All-Mighty, Possessor of Retribution?

38. And verily, if you ask them: “Who created the heavens and the earth?” Surely, they will say: “Allâh (has created them).” Say: “Tell me then, the things that you invoke besides Allâh, if Allâh intended some harm for me, could they remove His harm, or if He (Allâh) intended some mercy for me, could they withhold His Mercy?” Say: “Sufficient for me is Allâh; in Him those who trust must put their trust.”

39. Say: “O My people! Work according to your way, I am working (according to my way). Then you will come to know,

40. “To whom comes a disgracing torment, and on whom descends an everlasting torment.”

41. Verily, We have sent down to you (O Muhammad) the Book (this Qur’ân) for mankind in truth. So whosoever accepts the guidance, it is only for his ownself, and whosoever goes astray, he goes astray only for his (own) loss. And you are not a Wakîl (trustee or disposer of affairs, or keeper) over them.

42. It is Allâh Who takes away the souls at the time of their death, and those that die not during their sleep. He keeps those (souls) for which He has ordained death and sends the rest for a term appointed. Verily, in this are signs for a people who think deeply.

Sura 39. Az-Zumar (The Groups)

Commentary ~ Strive for your sustenance, but don’t be covetous

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

The Lord of the worlds provides for the worm in the ground:

There is not a moving (living) creature on earth, nor a bird that flies with its two wings, but are communities like you… (Koran 6.38)

Allah provides for the birds in the sky and for the fish in the sea:

…And it is He Who feeds but is not fed… (Koran 6.14)

You are worthier than a worm, bird, or fish, so don’t worry about sustenance.

I have known people who were stricken by poverty simply because of their distance from Allah. Some of them were rich and healthy, but instead of being thankful they turned away from obedience to Allah, they abandoned prayer, and they perpetrated major sins. Allah took away from them their health and their wealth, replacing these with poverty, sickness, and anxiety. They were then afflicted with hardship upon hardship, calamity upon calamity.

But whosoever turns away from My Reminder, verily, for him is a life of hardship… (Koran 20.124)

That is so because Allah will never change a grace which He has bestowed on a people until they change what is in their ownselves. And verily, Allah is All-Hearer, All-Knower. (Koran 8.53)

And whatever of misfortune befalls you, it is because of what your hands have earned. And He pardons much. (Koran 42.30)

If they had believed in Allah, and went on the Right Way (i.e. Islam) We should surely have bestowed on them water (rain) in abundance. (Koran 72.16)

La Tahzan (Don’t be sad)
By Aaidh ibn Abdullah al-Qarni
Translated by: Faisal ibn Muhammad Shafeeq, 2nd ed. Riyadh 2005
Publisher: International Islamic Publishing House
ISBN Hard Cover: 9960-850-36-6
ISBN Soft Cover: 9960-850-44-7
Page 194

Hadith ~ Enjoin Good and Forbid Evil

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Hudhaifah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection) said, “By Him in Whose Hand my life is, you either enjoin good and forbid evil, or Allah will certainly soon send His punishment to you. Then you will make supplication and it will not be accepted”. (At-Tirmidhi).

Commentary: To abandon the practice of enjoining virtue and forbidding vice is likely to incur the
displeasure of Allah. This trend is indeed fraught with the danger of rejection of prayers and
supplications by Allah.

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Chapter 23, Page 69, No 193

Commentary ~ Under the influence of ignorance

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Here is a saying of Tsavri Sofian, a native of Kufa. He died in Basra in the year 161 (777-778).

“In four cases one acts under the influence of ignorance:

  • When one censors others; this relates to not recognizing the supreme decisions of the Lord Most High and whoever does not recognize these decisions falls into infidelity.

  • When one lets envy take hold inside our hearts; this relates to not accepting the apportionment determined by the Lord, for he who does not accept his share falls into infidelity.

  • When one earns wealth from sources that are forbidden or of questionable legitimacy; this relates to not worrying about the Account that will be taken on the Day of Judgment, and to not worry about that Account is the characteristic of the unfaithful.

  • When one no longer expects anything from the Lord; this comes from disregarding Allah’s Mercy, and whoever despairs of Allah’s Mercy is an infidel.”

“…and never give up hope of Allah’s Mercy. Certainly no one despairs of Allah’s Mercy, except the people who disbelieve.” (Koran 12.87)

Hadith ~ Every Good Deed

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Jabir (MAPH) reported that he heard the Messenger of Allah (May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection) saying: “Every good deed is charity”. (Al-Bukhari)

Muslim has reported the same on the authority of Hudhaifah (MAPH).

Commentary: We come to know from this Hadith that whatever good action and deed is done by a Muslim, he gets a reward of Sadaqah on it. The word Ma’ruf stands here for every virtue and noble deed. Renunciation of evils is also a virtue (Mar’uf).

MAPH: May Allah be pleased with him

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Chapter 370, Page 48, No 134

Commentary ~ Asma bint Yazid Al-Ansariyah

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Muslim bin Asad related from Asma that she went to the Prophet (SAWS) while he was seated with his Companions. She said, “…I came as an emissary to you from a group of women. Indeed Allah has sent you to both men and women, and we believe in you and in your Lord. Indeed, we women are limited and constrained, though we are the pillars of your houses, from us do you fulfill your desires and lusts, and we also carry your children. Indeed, you men have been favored over us by the congregational Friday prayer and by all other congregational prayers, by visiting the sick, by attending funeral prayers, by performing pilgrimage after pilgrimage, and better than all of that – Jihad in the way of Allah. When men go out to perform Hajj, Umrah, or Jihad, we protect for them their wealth, spin for them their garments, and raise for them their children. Shall we not share with you in this recompense and reward?”

The Prophet (SAWS) turned to his Companions and said, “Have you ever heard any speech of a woman that is more beautiful than this woman’s questioning regarding the affairs of her religion?” They said, “O Messenger of Allah, we never thought that a woman should be guided to something like this.” The Prophet (SAWS) turned to her and said, “Understand this, O woman, and teach this to those women whom you left behind: For a woman to be a good spouse to her husband, for her to seek his pleasure, for her to follow and cooperate with him, is equal to all of that (i.e., all of the rewards that men get for their toils or for the deeds mentioned above).”

She left and was making Tahleel (i.e., she was testifying: None has the right to be worshipped but Allah).

SAWS: May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection

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P106

Commentary ~ The Cow and the Island

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

On a green island, a cow lived in solitude. She grazed until nightfall and thus fattened up every day. At night, no longer seeing the grass, she worried about what she was going to eat the next day and this worry made her as thin as a feather. At dawn, the prairie became green with the sunlight and the cow started grazing again with a bovine appetite until sunset. The cow once again had became fat and full of strength. At nightfall, not seeing the prairie, she began to cry and lose weight once again.

Time would pass but it never occurred to the cow’s mind that the prairie was not decreasing and that there was little reason to worry in this manner.

Your ego is like the cow and the island is the universe. The fear of tomorrow makes the cow lean. Do not worry for the future. Better to look at the present. You have been eating for years and the gifts and provisions from Allah have nevertheless never diminished.

Ayaat 15-34 ~ Qaf

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

15. Were We then tired with the first creation? Nay, They are in confused doubt about a new creation (i.e. Resurrection)?

16. And indeed We have created man, and We know what his ownself whispers to him. And We are nearer to him than his jugular vein.

17. (Remember!) that the two receivers (recording angels) receive (each human being after he or she has attained the age of puberty), one sitting on the right and one on the left (to note his or her actions).

18. Not a word does he (or she) utter, but there is a watcher by him ready (to record it).

19. And the stupor of death will come in truth: “This is what you have been avoiding!”

20. And the Trumpet will be blown, that will be the Day whereof warning (had been given) (i.e. the Day of Resurrection).

21. And every person will come forth along with an (angel) to drive (him), and an (angel) to bear witness.

22. (It will be said to the sinners): “Indeed you were heedless of this, now We have removed your covering, and sharp is your sight this Day!”

23. And his companion (angel) will say: “Here is (this Record) ready with me!”

24. (And it will be said): “Both of you throw (Order from Allâh to the two angels) into Hell, every stubborn disbeliever (in the Oneness of Allâh, in His Messengers, etc.).

25. “Hinderer of good, transgressor, doubter,

26. “Who set up another ilâh (god) with Allâh, then (both of you) cast him in the severe torment.”

27. His companion (Satan devil)] will say: “Our Lord! I did not push him to transgress, (in disbelief, oppression, and evil deeds) but he was himself in error far astray.”

28. Allâh will say: “Dispute not in front of Me, I had already, in advance, sent you the threat.

29. The Sentence that comes from Me cannot be changed, and I am not unjust (to the least) to the slaves.”

30. On the Day when We will say to Hell: “Are you filled?” It will say: “Are there any more (to come)?”

31. And Paradise will be brought near to the Muttaqûn (pious – see V.2:2) not far off.

32. (It will be said): “This is what you were promised, – (it is) for those oft-returning (to Allâh) in sincere repentance, and those who preserve their covenant with Allâh (by obeying Him in all what He has ordered, and worship none but Allâh Alone, i.e. follow Allâh’s Religion, Islâmic Monotheism).

33. “Who feared the Most Beneficent (Allâh) in the Ghaib (unseen): (i.e. in this worldly life before seeing and meeting Him), and brought a heart turned in repentance (to Him – and absolutely free from each and every kind of polytheism),

34. “Enter you therein in peace and security; this is a Day of eternal life!”

Sura 50. Qaf

Hadith ~ Giving in charity is an obligation upon every Muslim

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Abu Musa Al-Ashari (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (SAWS) said: “Giving in charity is an obligation upon every Muslim”. It was said (to him): “What about one who does not find (the means) to do so?” The Prophet (SAWS) said: “Let him work with his hands, thus doing benefit to himself and give in charity.” It was said to him: “What if he does not have (the means) to do so?” The Prophet (SAWS) said: “Then let him assist the needy, the aggrieved.” It was said: “What about if he cannot even do this?” The Prophet (SAWS) said: “Then he should enjoin good.” He was asked: “What if he cannot do that?” The Prophet (SAWS) said: “He should then abstain from evil, for verily, that is a charity from him”. (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

SAWS: May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Chapter 13, Page 50, No 141

Commentary ~ Hope

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

One shouldn’t lose hope in Allah; that is the beginning of the path to safety. If you do not walk this path, know at least where that road begins, and do not say: “I have made mistakes.” Strive to always be on the straight path and nothing crooked will reach you. Righteousness is the stick of the Prophet Moussa (Moses) (peace be upon him), and crookedness is the magic (of Pharaoh’s magicians). When righteousness is manifest, it devours all magic. If you do wrong, you only harm yourself. The damage does not reach Allah. When you become straight, all that is crooked disappears. Never lose hope.

Ayaat 69-104 ~ Ash-Shu’ara’ (The Poets)

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

69. And recite to them the story of Ibrâhim (Abraham).

70. When he said to his father and his people: “What do you worship?”

71. They said: “We worship idols, and to them we are ever devoted.”

72. He said: “Do they hear you, when you call (on them)?

73. “Or do they benefit you or do they harm (you)?”

74. They said: “Nay, but we found our fathers doing so.”

75. He said: “Do you observe that which you have been worshipping,

76. “You and your ancient fathers?

77. “Verily! They are enemies to me, save the Lord of the ‘Alamîn (mankind, jinns and all that exists);

78. “Who has created me, and it is He Who guides me;

79. “And it is He Who feeds me and gives me to drink.

80. “And when I am ill, it is He who cures me;

81. “And Who will cause me to die, and then will bring me to life (again);

82. “And Who, I hope will forgive me my faults on the Day of Recompense, (the Day of Resurrection),”

83. My Lord! Bestow Hukman (religious knowledge, right judgement of the affairs and Prophethood) on me, and join me with the righteous;

84. And grant me an honourable mention in later generations;

85. And make me one of the inheritors of the Paradise of Delight;

86. And forgive my father, verily he is of the erring;

87. And disgrace me not on the Day when (all the creatures) will be resurrected;

88. The Day whereon neither wealth nor sons will avail,

89. Except him who brings to Allâh a clean heart [clean from Shirk (polytheism) and Nifâq (hypocrisy)].

90. And Paradise will be brought near to the Muttaqûn (pious – see V.2:2).

91. And the (Hell) Fire will be placed in full view of the erring.

92. And it will be said to them: “Where are those (the false gods whom you used to set up as rivals with Allâh) that you used to worship

93. “Instead of Allâh? Can they help you or (even) help themselves?”

94. Then they will be thrown on their faces into the (Fire), They and the Ghâwûn (devils, and those who were in error).

95. And the whole hosts of Iblîs (Satan) together.

96. They will say while contending therein,

97. By Allâh, we were truly in a manifest error,

98. When We held you (false gods) as equals (in worship) with the Lord of the ‘Alamîn (mankind, jinns and all that exists);

99. And none has brought us into error except the Mujrimûn [Iblîs (Satan) and those of human beings who commit crimes, murderers, polytheists, oppressors, etc.].

100. Now we have no intercessors,

101. Nor a close friend (to help us).

102. (Alas!) If we only had a chance to return (to the world), we shall truly be among the believers!

103. Verily! In this is indeed a sign, yet most of them are not believers.

104. And verily, your Lord! He is truly the All-Mighty, the Most Merciful.

Sura 26. Ash-Shu’ara’ (The Poets)

Commentary ~ Eighteen Guidelines

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Sa’eed bin Musayyib (MAPH) reports that there were eighteen guidelines that Umar Al-Khataab (MAPH) formulated for the people, every one of which is replete with wisdom. He said:

  • When someone disobeys Allah in a matter that impacts on you, you can give him no punishment worse than obeying Allah in matters that impact on him.
  • Always assume the best about your brother unless you learn something about him that you absolutely cannot reconcile.
  • Never assume the worst about any statement that a Muslim makes as long as you are able to make a favourable interpretation.
  • The person who exposes himself to slander must never rebuke anyone who holds a bad opinion of him.
  • Whoever guards his secrets will retain the choice in his hands.
  • Ensure that you keep true friends to stay under their wings because they are a source of beauty during times of prosperity and a means of protection during times of hardship.
  • Always speak the truth even though it leads to your death.
  • Never delve into matters that do not concern you.
  • Do not ask about matters that have not occurred because that which has already taken place is enough to preoccupy you from that which has not.
  • Never seek your needs from one who does not want to see your success.
  • Never treat false oaths lightly because Allah will then destroy you.
  • Never keep the company of the sinners to learn from their sinful ways.
  • Keep away from your enemy.
  • Beware even of your friends, except for the trustworthy one and none can be trustworthy unless he fears Allah.
  • Be humble when in the graveyard.
  • Be humble when submiting to Allah’s commands.
  • Seek Allah’s protection at the time of disobeying His commands.
  • In your affairs, consult with those who fear Allah because Allah says:

    • …It is only those who have knowledge among His slaves that fear Allâh… (Sura 35.28)

(Khateeb, Ibn Asaakir and Ibn Najjaar, as quoted in Kanzul Ummaal (Vol. 8 Page 235))

MAPH: May Allah be pleased with him

The Lives of the Sahaba (Hayat-Assahaba)
By Muhammad Yusuf Kandhelwi – Volume III
Translation Edited by Azfal Hoosen Elias
Editor: Zam Zam Publishers
Page 508

Commentary ~ Futility

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Sentence of Imam Ali (may Allah be pleased with him):

We recognize the futility of someone in that he talks a lot about things that do not concern him and in that he informs about things about which he was not asked.

Commentary ~ The True Believer

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Yahya ben Mo’âz, who died in the year 258 (871-872), said: “…I find it strange the people who avoid eating unhealthy things for fear of getting sick, and who, never abstaining from sin, do not shelter their person from the punishment of the Lord most high. There are three kinds of intelligent people: those who abandon this world before this world abandons them; those who build their grave before entering it, and those who strive to please the Lord most high before arriving at His Court. Whosoever practices moderation of the desires of the heart will see their heart flooded with light. (…) The knowledgeable is he who prefers above all the glorification of the Name of Allah. In whose heart that person has the fear of the Lord most high, his whole being longs to be worshiping and stays away from sin. Every thing has its kind of beauty: the beauty of the acts of worship, is fear (taqwa).”

Hadith ~ Covers up the faults

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection) said: “Allah will cover up on the Day of Resurrection the defects (faults) of the one who covers up the faults of the others in this world”. (Muslim)

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Chapter 28, Page 82, No 240

Ayaat 275-280 ~ Al-Baqarah (The Cow)

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Listen to Recitation

275. Those who eat Ribâ (usury, interest) will not stand (on the Day of Resurrection) except like the standing of a person beaten by Shaitân (Satan) leading him to insanity. That is because they say: “Trading is only like Ribâ (usury),” whereas Allâh has permitted trading and forbidden Ribâ (usury). So whosoever receives an admonition from his Lord and stops eating Ribâ (usury) shall not be punished for the past; his case is for Allâh (to judge); but whoever returns [to Ribâ (usury)], such are the dwellers of the Fire – they will abide therein.

276. Allâh will destroy Ribâ (usury) and will give increase for Sadaqât (deeds of charity, alms, etc.) And Allâh likes not the disbelievers, sinners.

277. Truly those who believe, and do deeds of righteousness, and perform As-Salât (Iqâmat-as-Salât), and give Zakât, they will have their reward with their Lord. On them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.

278. O you who believe! Be afraid of Allâh and give up what remains (due to you) from Ribâ (usury) (from now onward), if you are (really) believers.

279. And if you do not do it, then take a notice of war from Allâh and His Messenger but if you repent, you shall have your capital sums. Deal not unjustly, and you shall not be dealt with unjustly.

280. And if the debtor is in a hard time (has no money), then grant him time till it is easy for him to repay, but if you remit it by way of charity, that is better for you if you did but know.

Sura 2. Al-Baqarah (The Cow)

Commentary ~ Then his Heart Dies

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Umar Ibn Al-Khattaab (MAPH) once said to Al-Ahnaf Ibn Qais (MAPH):

“O Ahnaf, the more one laughs, the less dignity will he possess. Whoever jokes (excessively or indecently) is a person who will be taken lightly. Whoever does something frequently will become known by that thing. Whoever speaks often, errs often; the more often one errs, the less modesty will he possess; whoever has a low level of modesty will also have a low level of piety (Taqwa); and when one has a low level of piety, then his heart dies.”

MAPH: May Allah be pleased with him

Glimpses Of The Lives Of Righteous People,
Darussalam publishing, Pp. 24-25,
Quoting from “Sifatus-Safwah”, 1/1449

Ayaat 84-95 ~ Hud

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

84. And to the Madyan (Midian) people (We sent) their brother Shu’aib. He said: “O my people! Worship Allâh, you have no other Ilâh (God) but Him, and give not short measure or weight, I see you in prosperity; and verily I fear for you the torment of a Day encompassing.

85. “And O my people! Give full measure and weight in justice and reduce not the things that are due to the people, and do not commit mischief in the land, causing corruption.

86. “That which is left by Allâh for you (after giving the rights of the people) is better for you, if you are believers. And I am not set over you as a guardian.

87. They said: “O Shu’aib! Does your Salât (prayer) (i.e. the prayers which you offer has spoiled your mind, so you) command that we leave off what our fathers used to worship, or that we leave off doing what we like with our property? Verily, you are the forbearer, right-minded!” (They said this sarcastically).

88. He said: “O my people! Tell me, if I have a clear evidence from my Lord, and He has given me a good sustenance from Himself (shall I corrupt it by mixing it with the unlawfully earned money). I wish not, in contradiction to you, to do that which I forbid you. I only desire reform so far as I am able, to the best of my power. And my guidance cannot come except from Allâh, in Him I trust and unto Him I repent.

89. “And O my people! Let not my Shiqâq cause you to suffer the fate similar to that of the people of Nûh (Noah) or of Hûd or of Sâlih (Saleh), and the people of Lout (Lot) are not far off from you!

90. “And ask forgiveness of your Lord and turn unto Him in repentance. Verily, my Lord is Most Merciful, Most Loving.”

91. They said: “O Shu’aib! We do not understand much of what you say, and we see you a weak (man) among us. Were it not for your family, we should certainly have stoned you and you are not powerful against us.”

92. He said: “O my people! Is then my family of more weight with you than Allâh? And you have cast Him away behind your backs. Verily, my Lord is surrounding all that you do.

93. “And O my people! Act according to your ability and way, and I am acting (on my way). You will come to know who it is on whom descends the torment that will cover him with ignominy, and who is a liar! And watch you! Verily, I too am watching with you.”

94. And when Our Commandment came, We saved Shu’aib and those who believed with him by a Mercy from Us. And As-Saîhah (torment – awful cry, etc.) seized the wrong-doers, and they lay (dead) prostrate in their homes.

95. As if they had never lived there! So away with Madyan (Midian)! As away with Thamud! (All these nations were destroyed).

Sura 11. Hud

Hadith ~ He who believes in Allah and the Last Day

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection) said: “He who believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him be hospitable to his guest; and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him maintain good the ties of blood relationship; and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day, must speak good or remain silent”. (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Commentary: This hadith is mentioned here to highlight the importance of kindness to relatives. It enjoins considerate treatment to relatives and stresses that one should maintain relationship with them at all costs. So much so that even if they misbehave and sever relations with him, one should make efforts to restore not only relationship with them but also their rights. This is what kindness to relatives really means. Islam has laid great stress on it. Relatives include both paternal and maternal relatives.

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Chapter 40, Page 105, No 314

Hadith ~ Do not get angry

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Mu’adh bin Anas (MAPH) reported: The Prophet (SAWS) said: “The one who suppresses anger and has the power to give effect to it, will be called out by Allah, the Exalted, to the forefront of the creatures on the Day of Resurrection and he will be asked to choose any of the Hur of his liking”. (Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi)

Abu Hurairah (MAPH) reported: “A man asked the Prophet (SAWS) for an advice and the Prophet (SAWS) said: “Do not get angry”. The man repeated that several times and he replied: “Do not get angry”. (Al-Bukhari)

Commentary:
1. Rage which is declared objectionable is the one which concerns worldly affairs but that which is for Allah and His religion, that is to say, which occurs on the violation of the Injunctions of Allah, is meritorious and essential.

2. Anyone who gets furious quickly should be advised again and again to control his anger so that he becomes concious of this weakness and tries to overcome it.

3. Rage is a means of fulfillment of satanic aims; so it is a great evil and people are advised to make every effort to prevent themselves from this satanic device.

4. The Hadith mentions the distinction and reward of self-control of a man who, in spite of being powerful and having the means to avenge, suppresses his fage and does not exercise his power.

SAWS: May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection
MAPH: May Allah be pleased with him

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Hadith 1: Chapter 3, Page 20, No 47
Hadith 2: Chapter 3, Page 21, No 48

Ayaat 24-27 ~ Yunus (Jonah)

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

24. Verily the likeness of (this) worldly life is as the water (rain) which We send down from the sky, so by it arises the intermingled produce of the earth of which men and cattle eat until when the earth is clad with its adornments and is beautified, and its people think that they have all the powers of disposal over it, Our Command reaches it by night or by day and We make it like a clean-mown harvest, as if it had not flourished yesterday! Thus do We explain the Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, laws, etc.) in detail for the people who reflect.

25. Allâh calls to the home of peace (i.e. Paradise, by accepting Allâh’s religion of Islâmic Monotheism and by doing righteous good deeds and abstaining from polytheism and evil deeds) and guides whom He wills to a Straight Path.

26. For those who have done good is the best (reward, i.e. Paradise) and even more (i.e. having the honour of glancing at the Countenance of Allâh) Neither darkness nor dust nor any humiliating disgrace shall cover their faces. They are the dwellers of Paradise, they will abide therein forever.

27. And those who have earned evil deeds, the recompense of an evil deed is the like thereof, and humiliating disgrace will cover them (their faces). No defender will they have from Allâh. Their faces will be covered, as it were, with pieces from the darkness of night. They are dwellers of the Fire, they will abide therein forever.

Sura 10. Yunus (Jonah)

Commentary ~ Charity that is given in secret

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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Rabi bin Khuthaim said: “All that is desired not for Allah, but for something or someone else, perishes.”

Abu-Hamzah Ath-Thumali said: “Ali bin Husain used to carry loaves of bread on his back during the nighttime, to give them in charity. And he would say: ‘Indeed, charity that is given in secret extinguishes the anger of the Lord.'”

Amr bin Thabit said: “When Ali bin Husain died, they washed him and found black stains on his back. They asked: ‘What is this?’ And they were told: ‘He used to carry sacks of wheat during the nighttime on his back, and he would distribute them to the poor inhabitants of Al-Madinah.'”

Gems and Jewels
Compiled by: Abdul-Malik Mujahid
Publisher: Maktaba Dar-us-Salam
ISBN: 9960-897-59-1
P188