Ayaat 130-132 ~ Ta-Ha

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

130. So be patient over what they say and exalt [Allah] with praise of your Lord before the rising of the sun and before its setting; and during periods of the night [exalt Him] and at the ends of the day, that you may be satisfied.

131. And do not extend your eyes toward that by which We have given enjoyment to [some] categories of them, [its being but] the splendor of worldly life by which We test them. And the provision of your Lord is better and more enduring.

132. And enjoin prayer upon your family [and people] and be steadfast therein. We ask you not for provision; We provide for you, and the [best] outcome is for [those of] righteousness.

Sura 20. Ta-Ha

Hadith ~ Day of Ashura (10th of Muharram)

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

Ibn Abbas (MAPH) reported: The Messenger of Allah (SAWS) observed Saum (fasting) on the day of ‘Ashura and commanded us to fast on this day. (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Abu Qatadah (MAPH) reported: The Messenger of Allah (SAWS) was asked about observing As-Saum (the fast) on the tenth day of Muharram, and he replied: “It is an expiation for the sins of the preceding year.” (Muslim)

Ibn Abbas (MAPH) reported: The Messenger of Allah (SAWS) said: “If I remain alive till the next year, I shall also observe fast on the ninth of Muharram.” (Muslim)

*Notes:
1. These days of fasting are voluntary however encouraged and desirable (mustahabb).
2. This year the 9th day of Muharram is Thursday 27th of July 2023, insha Allah.
3. This year the 10th day of Muharram is Friday 28th of July 2023, insha Allah.

Commentary: ‘Ashura 10th of Muharram. In another Hadith, it is stated that when the Prophet (SAWS) emigrated from Makkah to Al-Madinah, he saw that the Jews were fasting on this day. He asked them why they did this on that day, and they told him that they did it for the reason that Allah granted Prophet Musa (Moses) (peace be upon him) emancipation from Pharaoh on this day, and so they observed Saum in token of their joy. On this, the Prophet (SAWS) said that in this happiness of Prophet Musa, Muslims have a greater right to observe Saum than the Jews. Consequently, the Prophet (SAWS) also observed Saum on 10th of Muharram. Then, he said that if he lived the following year, he would observe Saum on 9th of Muharram also so that they would make themselves different from the Jews. It is regrettable indeed that present-day Muslims do not follow this Sunnah of the Prophet (SAWS) and some instead observe baseless practices of mourning assemblies.

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 227, Page 364, No 1251
Hadith 1: Chapter 227, Page 364, No 1252
Hadith 1: Chapter 227, Page 364, No 1253

Commentary ~ Water down the milk

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

During Umar’s (may Allah be pleased with him) caliphate, it was not unusual for him to be seen patrolling the streets during the night. It was in fact his routine to do so in order to make sure that everyone was safe. On one such night, he was patrolling the streets with his servant. Becoming tired after a while, both of them stopped to rest beside a house. They could clearly hear the voice of an old woman from inside the house; she was ordering her daughter to water down the milk they were going to sell the following day. But the daughter refused her request; instead, she said, “Indeed, the Leader of the Believers has sent someone to make the announcement that it is forbidden to mix milk with water” (of course, referring to milk that is for sale and not for personal consumption).

The mother was not necessarily angry with her daughter, but she insisted that her daughter comply with her request. She even tried to reason with her, saying, “Where is Umar now? Verily, he does not see us.” Her believing, trustworthy daughter answered, “If Umar does not see us, then indeed, the Lord of Umar sees us.” The Leader of the Believers was very impressed by what he heard from the young woman, impressed by her faith and by her trustworthiness. On the following morning, he asked about her and found out her name was Umm Ammarah bint Sufyan bin Abdullah Ath-Thaqafi and that she was unmarried. He then married her to his son Aasim (may Allah be pleased with him). Allah blessed their marriage, for one of their grandchildren turned out to be a just and pious Caliph: of course, I am referring to Umar bin Abdul-Aziz.

Gems and Jewels
Compiled by: Abdul-Malik Mujahid
Publisher: Maktaba Dar-us-Salam
ISBN: 9960-897-59-1
Page 283

Hadith ~ The Magnitude of the Reward

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

Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah (SAWS) said, “When Allah desires good for one of His slaves, He brings forward the punishment for him in this world. When Allah desires evil for His slave, He withholds from him what is due to him on account of his wrong actions and then settles it on the Day of Resurrection.” The Prophet (SAWS) said, “The greatest reward goes together with the greatest affliction. When Allah Almighty loves people, He tests them. All who are content receive His good pleasure. Those who are angry receive His anger.” (At-Tirmidhi).

Commentary: This Hadith shows that, for a Muslim, trials are also a blessing in this world because his sins are forgiven in proportion to the trials he has to face and his reward is increased with the Will of Allah. Thus, a Muslim should always be patient and contented in the event of trial because without these qualities he will not have the privilege associated with them. In fact, his impatience would increase his sins even further.

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

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Chapter 3, Page 19, No 43

Ayaat 53-58 ~ Az-Zumar (The Groups)

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

Listen to Recitation

53. Say, “O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins[1].

54. And return [in repentance] to your Lord and submit to Him before the punishment comes upon you; then you will not be helped.

55. And follow the best of what was revealed to you from your Lord [i.e., the Quran] before the punishment comes upon you suddenly while you do not perceive,

56. Lest a soul should say,[2] “Oh, [how great is] my regret over what I neglected in regard to Allah and that I was among the mockers.”

57. Or [lest] it say, “If only Allah had guided me, I would have been among the righteous.”

58. Or [lest] it say when it sees the punishment, “If only I had another turn[3] so I could be among the doers of good.”

Sura 39. Az-Zumar (The Groups)

[1]: For those who repent and correct themselves.
[2]: On the Day of Resurrection.
[3]: At worldly life.

Hadith ~ Prophet Muhammad’s (saws) Last Sermon

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

[This sermon was delivered on the Ninth Day of Dhul-Hijjah 10 A.H. in the ‘Uranah valley of Mount Arafat’ in Mecca.]

After praising and thanking Allah the Prophet (saws) said:

“O People, lend me an attentive ear, for I know not whether after this year I shall ever be amongst you again. Therefore listen to what I am saying very carefully and take these words to those who could not be present here today.

O People, just as you regard this month, this day, this city as Sacred, so regard the life and property of every Muslim as a sacred trust. Return the goods entrusted to you to their rightful owners. Hurt no one so that no one may hurt you. Remember that you will indeed meet your Lord, and that he will indeed reckon your deeds. Allah has forbidden you to take usury (interest), therefore all interest obligations shall henceforth be waived. Your capital is yours to keep. You will neither inflict nor suffer any inequity. Allah has judged that there shall be no interest and that all the interest due to Abbas ibn ‘Abd’al Muttalib [the Prophet’s uncle] be waived.

Every right arising out of homicide in pre-islamic days is henceforth waived and the first such right that i waive is that arising from the murder of Rabiah ibn al Harithibn.

O People, the unbelievers indulge in tampering with the calender in order to make permissible that which Allah forbade, and to forbid that which Allah has made permissible. With Allah the months are twelve in number. Four of them are holy, three of these are successive and one occurs singly between the months of Jumada and Shaban.

Beware of Satan, for the safety of your religion. He has lost all hope of that he will be able to lead you astray in big things, so beware of following him in small things.

O People, it is true that you have certain rights with regard to your women but they also have rights over you. Remember that you have taken them as your wives only under Allah’s trust and with His permission. If they abide by your right, then to them belongs the right to be fed and clothed in kindness. Do treat your women well and be kind to them for they are your partners and committed helpers. And it is your right that they do not make friends with anyone of whom you do not approve, as well as never to be unchaste. O People, listen to me in earnest, worship Allah, say your five daily prayers, fast during the month of Ramadhan, and give your wealth in Zakat. Perform Hajj if you can afford to.

All mankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over a black nor a black has any superiority over a white – except by piety and good action. Learn that every Muslim is a brother to every Muslim and that the Muslims constitute one brotherhood. Nothing shall be legitimate to a Muslim which belogs to a fellow Muslim unless it was given freely and willingly. Do not therefore do injustice to yourselves. Remember one day you will meet Allah and answer your deeds. So beware: do not stray from the path of righteousness after I am gone.

O People, no prophet or apostle will come after me, and no new faith will be born. Reason well, therefore, O People, and understand my words which I convey to you. I leave behind me two things, the Qur’an and my Sunnah and if you follow these you will never go astray.

All those who listen to me shall pass on my words to others and those to others again; and may the last ones understand my words better than those who listen to me directly. Be my witness, O Allah, that I have conveyed Your message to Your people.”

*Source: Allah Alim. I don’t have exact source. Approximate translation of the sermon from the Arabic. May Allah forgive any mistakes.

Hadith ~ Successful

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

Talhah bin ‘Ubaidullah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: A person with dishevelled hair, one of the people of Najd, came to the Messenger of Allah (SAWS). We heard the humming of his voice but could not fully understand what he was saying, till he approached close to the Messenger of Allah (SAWS). Then I came to know that he was asking about Islam. The Messenger of Allah (SAWS) said: “There are five (obligatory) Salat during the day and the night.” He said: “Am I obliged to perform any other (Salat) besides these?” The Messenger of Allah (SAWS) said, “No, but whatever you observe voluntarily.” He (SAWS) added, “There is the Saum (fasting) of Ramadan.” The inquirer asked: “Am I obliged to do anything besides this?” The Messenger of Allah (SAWS) said, “No, but whatever you do out of your own free will. You may observe voluntary fasting.” And the Messenger of Allah (SAWS) told him about the Zakat (obligatory charity). The inquirer asked: “Am I obliged to pay anything besides this?” The Messenger of Allah (SAWS) said, “No, but whatever you pay voluntarily out of your own free will.” That man turned back saying: “By Allah! I will neither make an addition to this nor will I decrease anything from it.” (Upon hearing this) the Messenger of Allah (SAWS) remarked, “He is successful if he proves truthful (to what he is saying).” (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 216, Page 351, No 1207

Ayaat 103-108 ~ Al-Kahf (The Cave)

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

103. Say, [O Muhammad], “Shall we [believers] inform you of the greatest losers as to [their] deeds?

104. [They are] those whose effort is lost in worldly life, while they think that they are doing well in work.”

105. Those are the ones who disbelieve in the verses of their Lord and in [their] meeting Him, so their deeds have become worthless; and We will not assign to them on the Day of Resurrection any weight [i.e., importance].

106. That is their recompense – Hell – for what they denied and [because] they took My signs and My messengers in ridicule.

107. Indeed, those who have believed and done righteous deeds – they will have the Gardens of Paradise[1] as a lodging,

Wherein they abide eternally. They will not desire from it any transfer.

Sura 18. Al-Kahf (The Cave)

[1] i.e., the highest part of Paradise, al-Firdaus.

Commentary ~ Must Every House be Built on Love?

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

Umar Ibn Al Khattab (MAPH) said to a man who was thinking of divorcing his wife:

“Why do you want to divorce her?” He said, “I do not love her.” ‘Umar (MAPH) said, “Must every house be built on love? What about loyalty and appreciation?”

He went on:

‘You men! When we marry, we give a serious promise to her. A woman gives birth to children and goes through hard times during her pregnancy. Then she suckles the baby and takes care all nights about her children, when they get sick or need anything. She sacrifices her beauty and youth by being a mother. How fair is it, when her husband leaves her when she is grown up? If she would have never have taken care of her home and family, instead of taking care of her body and beauty, her husband would say: “What a bad mother she is.” Where is the integrity and loyalty? Fear Allah regarding your behavior towards your wives.’

MAPH: may Allah be pleased with him

[Al-Bayan wa at-Tabayeen, 2/101; Fara’id al – Kalam, p.113]

Hadith ~ The case of a believer

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

Abu Yahya Suhaib bin Sinan (May Allah be pleased with him) reported that: The Messenger of Allah (May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection) said: “How wonderful is the case of a believer; there is good for him in everything and this applies only to a believer. If prosperity attends him, he expresses gratitude to Allah and that is good for him; and if adversity befalls him, he endures it patiently and that is better for him”. (Muslim)

Commentary: A Muslim is required to behave in poverty and prosperity, affluence and hardship, in the manner stated in this Hadith. It means that to forget Allah in prosperity, rather than being thankful to Him for His Favour is defiance of His Orders. Similarly, it is unbecoming of a Muslim that in troubles and turmoil, rather than being patient, he tends to weeping and crying, grousing and grieving against the Will of Allah.

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Chapter 3, Page 14, No 27

Ayaat 39-48 ~ al-Muddaththir (The One Who Covers Himself (with a garment))

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

39. Except the companions of the right,

40. [Who will be] in gardens, questioning each other

41. About the criminals,

42. [And asking them], “What put you into Saqar?”

43. They will say, “We were not of those who prayed,

44. Nor did we used to feed the poor.

45. And we used to enter into vain discourse with those who engaged [in it],

46. And we used to deny the Day of Recompense

47. Until there came to us the certainty [i.e., death].”[1]

48. So there will not benefit them the intercession of [any] intercessors.

Sura 74. al-Muddaththir (The One Who Covers Himself (with a garment))

[1] Four reasons that have brought people to Hell. Let’s avoid these actions so as not to be among them inshaAllah.

Commentary ~ Tranquility and Peace

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

1. The length of your life has already been decided upon, for everything takes places according to preordainment and decree. So there is no need to feel anxious in that regard.

2. The decision of how much sustenance any one of us receives is with Allah alone: no one else owns that sustenance or has the power to take it from you.

3. The past is gone and has taken with it its woes and miseries. It cannot return even if the whole of mankind worked as one unit to bring it back.

4. The future is from the unseen world and has not yet arrived. It brings with it matters, showing no regard to your permission or feelings, so do not call it forth until it actually arrives.

5. Doing good to others brings happiness to both the heart and the soul. A good deed provides greater benefits to the benefactor – in terms of blessings and recompense and peace – then it does to the receiver.

6. Among the noble qualities of the believer is that he doesn’t concern himself with spurious criticism. No one has been saved from curses and criticism (…).

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 286

Hadith ~ Inferior to you

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

Abu Hurairah (May allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (SAWS) said, “Look at those who are inferior to you and do not look at those who are superior to you, for this will keep you from belittling Allah’s Favour to you.”  (Al-Bukhari and Muslim).

This is the wording in Sahih Muslim. The narration in Al-Bukhari is: Messenger of Allah (SAWS) said: “When one of you looks at someone who is superior to him in property and appearance, he should look at someone who is inferior to him”.

Commentary: By looking at the worldly goods and riches of others, a person gradually becomes unthankful for the blessings which Allah has bestowed on him. The best remedy for this “disease” is that which has been prescribed by Messenger of Allah (SAWS) in this Hadith. The remedy is that one should look at the people who have lesser worldly goods and riches than one’s own. But from a religious angle, one should look towards those who are more fearful of Allah and observe their Salat meticulously, give their Zakat, practice Siam, if able complete the Hajj, kindness towards the parents, helping the orphan, feeding the hungry, being honest, smiling and doing other good deeds etc… so that one becomes more fond of obedience of Allah, has a greater fear of Allah and devotes more time to prayer and devotion. This dispensation is also given in other Hadith. (Notice and observe how the media generally always highlights the exact opposite in both cases)

Note: This does not mean not to work honestly desiring to be like those who Allah has given more. Just at the same time never lose focus on your Islam with which by Allah’s mercy will open the doors of Paradise inshaAllah and is the True success.

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

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Chapter 55, Page 157, No 467

Ayaat 151-153 ~ Al-An’am (The Cattle)

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

Listen to Recitation

151. Say, “Come, I will recite what your Lord has prohibited to you. [He commands] that you not associate anything with Him, and to parents, good treatment, and do not kill your children out of poverty; We will provide for you and them. And do not approach immoralities – what is apparent of them and what is concealed. And do not kill the soul which Allah has forbidden [to be killed] except by [legal] right. This has He instructed you that you may use reason.”

152. And do not approach the orphan’s property except in a way that is best [i.e., intending improvement] until he reaches maturity. And give full measure and weight in justice. We do not charge any soul except [with that within] its capacity. And when you speak [i.e., testify], be just, even if [it concerns] a near relative. And the covenant of Allah fulfill. This has He instructed you that you may remember.And do not approach the orphan’s property except in a way that is best [i.e., intending improvement] until he reaches maturity. And give full measure and weight in justice. We do not charge any soul except [with that within] its capacity. And when you speak [i.e., testify], be just, even if [it concerns] a near relative. And the covenant of Allah fulfill. This has He instructed you that you may remember.

153. And, [moreover], this is My path, which is straight, so follow it; and do not follow [other] ways, for you will be separated from His way. This has He instructed you that you may become righteous.

Sura 6. Al-An’am (The Cattle)

Commentary ~ How You deal with Others is how You will be dealt with

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

A wise man once said to his son, “My son, do not become resentful when you are afflicted with trials, for indeed that is tantamount to having bad thoughts about one’s Lord, and also, it gives pleasure to one’s enemy. Do not mock others, for indeed by Allah, every time I ever mocked anyone, I was afflicted in the same way as the person who I mocked. In this world, man is a target of arrows that come to him successively: some pass him by, some fall short, some fall to his right and others to his left, and some strike him. Know that for every deed, you are rewarded, and how you deal with others is how you will be dealt with. And whoever is dutiful to his parents, his children will be dutiful to him. Avoid greed and ambition, for both represent poverty in the present. Fear Allah as much as you are able. And if you are able to make today better than yesterday and tomorrow better than today and your secrets better than your outward deeds, then do so. Beware of deeds that you have to apologize for, for one never has to apologize for goodness. When you stand for prayer, perform the prayer of one who is saying farewell, as if you feel that you will never afterwards pray again (i.e., that you will die). Adhere to modesty, and you will be of its people. Do not inflict harm upon others; rather give them good, and forgive if you are able to. Do not be miserly if you are asked for something and do not tarry when one seeks help from you. Whoever is stingy, then Allah will make things narrow for him; and whoever gives, then Allah will give him a replacement for what he gave.”

Gems and Jewels
Compiled by: Abdul-Malik Mujahid
Publisher: Maktaba Dar-us-Salam
ISBN: 9960-897-59-1
Page 141

Hadith ~ The Bankrupt

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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: “Do you know who is the bankrupt?” They said: “The bankrupt among us is one who has neither money with him nor any property”. He said, “The real bankrupt of my Ummah would be he who would come on the Day of Resurrection with Salat (Prayers), Saum (Fasting) and Sadaqah (Zakat and Charity). He comes having reviled others, brought calamity against others, unlawfully devoured the wealth of others, shed the blood of others and beat others; so his good deeds would be credited to the account of those (who suffered at his hand and tongue). If his good deeds are not enough to clear the account, their sins would be entered in his account and he would be thrown in the (Hell) Fire”. (Muslim)

Commentary:
Keep in mind that the bankrupt is a person who had money but then lost it. The bankrupt of the Ummah of The Messenger of Allah (May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection) is the one who had mountains of good deeds but lost them because of the bad treatment he had towards his fellow creation. Be very careful in how you treat others. You worked hard for your good deeds, don’t give them away. Imagine your good deeds being in the book of your victims (and they get the reward), and their bad deeds being in your own book (and you get the punishment).

Completing ones religious obligations (prayer, alms, fasting, and pilgrimage) is not sufficient so that Allah is pleased with us and is not sufficient in preventing us from going to Hell. What matters most is the real intention of our acts of devotion. If they are truly for Allah, they must prevent us from committing acts of injustice and immorality. But if these acts are for ostentation and to deceive others into getting favours, Allah rejects these acts because of the impurity of our souls. We continue to break all taboos towards Allah and man. This will lead directly to Hell despite our prayers, our alms, our fasting and pilgrimage.

This Hadith tells us that a Muslim has to take strict care in the performance of obligations like prescribed Salat, Zakat, etc, but he has to take similar care in his dealings, manners and morals. Salvation lies in the proper fulfillment of all these requirements. Fulfillment of one at the cost of the other will not be sufficient for salvation.

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Chapter 26, Page 77, No 218

Ayaat 30-33 ~ Fussilat (Explained in detail)

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

Interesting Tafseer about these Ayaat (49 minutes)

30. Indeed, those who have said, “Our Lord is Allah” and then remained on a right course – the angels will descend upon them, [saying], “Do not fear and do not grieve but receive good tidings of Paradise, which you were promised.

31. We [angels] were your allies in worldly life and [are so] in the Hereafter. And you will have therein whatever your souls desire, and you will have therein whatever you request [or wish]

32. As accommodation from a [Lord who is] Forgiving and Merciful.”

33. And who is better in speech than one who invites to Allah and does righteousness and says, “Indeed, I am of the Muslims.”

Sura 41. Fussilat (Explained in detail)

Hadith ~ Six days of Shawwal

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

Abu Ayyub (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection) said: “He who observes As-Saum (fasting) in the month of Ramadan, and also observes As-Saum for six days in the month of Shawwal (month that follows Ramadan), it is as if he has observed As-Saum for the whole year.” (Muslim)

Commentary: According to the formula that there is at least ten-fold reward for every virtue, the Saum of one month (Ramadan) is equivalent to Saum of ten months. If one also observes six days of Saum of Shawwal, they will be equal to the Saum of two months. Thus, one becomes eligible for the reward of one full years’ Saum. He who makes it a permanent feature is like one who observes Saum throughout his life. He will be considered by Allah as one who observes Saum permanently. Although voluntary in nature, they are highly important. One can observe these six-day Saum consecutively or separately. Allah Alim.

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Chapter 228, Page 364, No 1254

Hadith ~ Two different routes

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

Jabir (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: On the occasion of the ‘Eid, the Prophet (May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection) would proceed to the prayer place taking one route and returning from another. (Al-Bukhari and Muslim).

Commentary: The ‘Ulama’ say that there are many subtle points of wisdom in changing the way. According to Imam An-Nawawi, this causes an increase in the places of worship. Some say that both ways will bear witness on the Day of Reckoning, that he had passed through them in a state of worship. This may also be the object that instead of one way, the needy on two ways should benefit from alms and charity.

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Chapter 98, Page 232, No 719

Ayaat 34-35 ~ Al-Ahzab

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

Listen to Recitation

34. And remember what is recited in your houses of the verses of Allah and wisdom.1119 Indeed, Allah is ever Subtle and Acquainted [with all things].

35. Indeed, the Muslim men and Muslim women, the believing men and believing women, the obedient men and obedient women, the truthful men and truthful women, the patient men and patient women, the humble men and humble women, the charitable men and charitable women, the fasting men and fasting women, the men who guard their private parts and the women who do so, and the men who remember Allah often and the women who do so – for them Allah has prepared forgiveness and a great reward.

Sura 33. Al-Ahzab

Commentary ~ Water in a Jug

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

Here is a story of Sheikh Mohammed Murte’ach who died in the year 328 (939-940).

The Sheikh said: “I made thirteen trips to the Kabah, but when I think about it I realized that everything I did was only for show. – How so? they asked him. – One day he said my mother had ordered me to bring her water in a jug, the task seemed difficult and heavy to me; I concluded that all my trips to the Kabah were pure acts of hypocrisy, since the rights of a mother on her son override many honors that we owe to the Kabah.”

Hadith ~ Zakat al-Fitr

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

Ibn `Umar (May Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection), made Zakat al-Fitr compulsory on every slave, freeman, male, female, young and old among the Muslims; one Saa` (a measurement: four double handfuls) of dried dates or one Saa` of barley. [Sahih Bukhari – Arabic/English, vol. 2, p. 339, no. 579]

Commentary: Zakat al-Fitr must be in the  hands of the needy family BEFORE Eid prayer.

Ayaat 17-19 ~ An-Naml (The Ants)

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

Listen to Recitation

17. And gathered for Solomon were his soldiers of the jinn and men and birds, and they were [marching] in rows.

18. Until, when they came upon the valley of the ants, an ant said, “O ants, enter your dwellings that you not be crushed by Solomon and his soldiers while they perceive not.”

19. So [Solomon] smiled, amused at her speech, and said, “My Lord, enable me[1] to be grateful for Your favor which You have bestowed upon me and upon my parents and to do righteousness of which You approve. And admit me by Your mercy into [the ranks of] Your righteous servants[2].”[3]

Sura 27. An-Naml (The Ants)

[1]: More literally, “gather within me the utmost strength and ability.”

[2]: Or “with Your righteous servants [into Paradise].”

[3]: Beautiful Dua (supplication) we should memorize and make often inchaAllah.

Commentary ~ He refused to take it other than in an unlawful way

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

This reminds me of a story of Ali (may Allah be pleased with him). One morning, he entered Masjid al-Koofa to pray two voluntary units of prayer. Before entering, he found a boy standing at the door. He said to him. “O boy, restrain for me my mule until I finish praying.” As Ali was entering the Mosque, he made an intention to reward the boy with a dirham for his services. Meanwhile, the boy removed the noseband from the mule and rushed off to the marketplace to sell it. When Ali came out of the Masjid, he found no boy, but only his mule without its noseband. He commissioned a man to go after the boy and ordered him to go to the marketplace since it was more than likely that the boy would go there to sell the noseband. The man found the boy auctioning it in the market and he bought it from him for a dirham. He returned to Ali and informed him of what happened. After hearing what occurred, Ali said, “How perfect Allah is! By Allah, I intended to give him a lawful dirham, but he refused to take it other than in an unlawful way.”

And, [O Mohammad], you are not [engaged] in any matter or recite any of the Quran and you [people] do not do any deed except that We are witness over you when you are involved in it. And not absent from your Lord is any [part] of an atom’s weight within the earth or within the heaven or [anything] smaller than that or greater but that it is in a clear register. (Quran 10:61)

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
P416

Ayaat 1-5 ~ Al-Qadr (The Night of Decree)

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

Listen to Recitation

1. Indeed, We sent it [i.e., the Quran] down during the Night of Decree[1].

2. And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree?

3. The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months[2].

4. The angels and the Spirit [i.e., Gabriel] descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter[3].

5. Peace it is until the emergence of dawn.

Sura 97. Al-Qadr (The Night of Decree)

[1] Al-Qadr: Decree or Destiny. Other meanings are “precise measurement [i.e., amount or extent],” “value,” “gravity” or “greatness.”

[2] a thousand months: worshipping Allah in that night is better than worshipping Allah a thousand months, i.e. 83 years and 4 months.

[3] They bring down the decree for everything destined to occur in the coming year.

Hadith ~ Likes for his brother

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

Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: “The Prophet (May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection) said: “No one of you becomes a true believer until he likes for his brother what he likes for himself“. (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Commentary: We learn from this Hadith about the importance and virtue of mutual love among the Muslims. If we act upon the injunctions mentioned in this Hadith, the Muslim societies will be immediately purged of the evils like exploitation, bribery, dishonesty, falsehood, cheating, forgery, etc., which are rampant in them at present. Islam has taught golden principles to its followers who have unfortunately neglected them and in consequence are leading a life of utter disgrace and moral turpitude. May Allah guide us to the Straight Path. Ameen.

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Chapter 22, Page 65, No 183

Commentary ~ As Time passes

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

Abdullah bin Mas’ud (May Allah be pleased with him) said: “Indeed I hate to see a man idle, neither working for this world nor for the Hereafter.”

Hassan Basri (May Allah have mercy on him) said: “O son of Adam, indeed you are only but a number of days. Whenever a day passes, a part of you leaves with it.”

Hassan said: “I have met (pious) people who are more miserly with their time than they are with their wealth.”

Hassan also said in a sermon, “Do not let the temporary and little charms of this world distract you and entice you…and do not say tomorrow and tomorrow, for indeed you do not know when you will be heading to Allah.”

Gems and Jewels
Compiled by: Abdul-Malik Mujahid
Publisher: Maktaba Dar-us-Salam
ISBN: 9960-897-59-1
Page 35

Ayaat 255 (Ayaat-ul-Kursi) ~ Al-Baqarah (The Cow)

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

Listen to Recitation

Lecture about Ayaat-ul-Kursi (61Mb)

255. Allah – there is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of [all] existence. Neither drowsiness overtakes Him nor sleep. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Who is it that can intercede with Him except by His permission? He knows what is [presently] before them and what will be after them,[1] and they encompass not a thing of His knowledge except for what He wills. His Kursi[2] extends over the heavens and the earth, and their preservation tires Him not. And He is the Most High, the Most Great. [This Verse 2:255 is called Ayaat-ul-Kursî.]

Sura 2. Al-Baqarah (The Cow)

[1] Allah’s knowledge encompasses every aspect of His creations in the past, present and future.

[2] Chair or footstool. It is not to be confused with al-Arsh (the Throne), which is infinitely higher and greater than al-Kursi.

Ayaat 111-115 ~ Hud

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

Listen to Recitation

111. And indeed, each [of the believers and disbelievers] – your Lord will fully compensate them for their deeds. Indeed, He is Acquainted with what they do.

112. So remain on a right course as you have been commanded, [you] and those who have turned back with you [to Allah], and do not transgress. Indeed, He is Seeing of what you do.

113. And do not incline toward those who do wrong, lest you be touched by the Fire, and you would not have other than Allah any protectors; then you would not be helped.

114. And establish prayer at the two ends of the day and at the approach of the night. Indeed, good deeds do away with misdeeds. That is a reminder for those who remember.

115. And be patient, for indeed, Allah does not allow to be lost the reward of those who do good.

Sura 11. Hud

Commentary ~ Pious Advice

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

Sufyan ath-Thawrî on his deathbed recommended this advice to Ali b. al-Hasan as-Sullamî:

Always be sincere, do not commit lies, treachery, ostentation and pride; they are flaws that remove any benefits gained from the practice of doing good deeds. In religion, only take counsel from the man who faithfully observes his own religion and for a companion the one who turns you away from the earthly vanities. The idea of death always in mind, implore Allah’s forgiveness often; and throughout your life think of your salvation. Give pious advice to those who seek it. Do not abuse the trust placed in you by a believer, because, therefore, it is Allah Himself and His Prophet that you will betray. Flee arguments and disputes. Avoid what may give rise to doubt and hold on tight to the unbreakable certainties; at stake is your own salvation. Order good and forbid evil, you will then be loved by Allah. Place yourself in good standing with your conscience; the Lord will take care of establishing your reputation in the eyes of others. Accept apologies when they are given to you and do not hold grudges with your brothers in Islam. Renew relations with anyone that has cut relations with you; by forgiving their offenses you will raise yourself to the level of the companions of the Prophets. Put your trust in Allah in every circumstance, in public and in private. Fear Allah like the mortal that you are, to be resurrected and herded in front of the Almighty. Remember the alternative that awaits you: either the sublime Garden or the blazing Fire.