Ayaat 1-5 ~ Al-Alaq (The Clot)

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

1. Read! In the Name of your Lord, Who has created (all that exists),

2. Has created man from a clot (a piece of thick coagulated blood).

3. Read! And your Lord is the Most Generous,

4. Who has taught (the writing) by the pen,

5. Has taught man that which he knew not.

Sura 96. Al-Alaq (The Clot)

Commentary: These verses of Sura Al-Alaq are the first verses of the revelation of Allah the Exalted. The revelation of the Qur’an began in the night of Lailat-ul-Qadr (Night of Decree) during Ramadan after the Prophet Muhammad (SAWS) had passed the fortieth year of his life. Here is a part of the Hadith as reported in the Sahih of Bukhari:

Narrated Aisha (DAS) the mother of the faithful believers: The commencement of the divine inspiration to Allah’s apostle was in the form of good dreams which came like bright daylight (i.e. true) and then the love of seclusion was bestowed upon him. He used to go in seclusion in the Cave of Hira’ (near Makkah), where he used to worship (Allah alone) continuously for many days before his desire to see his family. He used to take with him food for the stay and then come back to (his wife) Khadija to take his food likewise again, till suddenly the truth descended upon him while he was in the Cave of Hira’.

The angel came to him and asked him to read. The Prophet replied ‘I do not know how to read’. The Prophet added, ‘The angel caught me (forcibly) and pressed me so hard that I could not bear it any more. He then released me and again asked me to read and I replied, “I do not know how to read”. Thereupon he caught me again and pressed me a second time till I could not bear it any more. He then released me and again asked me to read, but again I replied, “I do not know how to read”. Thereupon he caught me for the third time and pressed me, and then released me and said: “Read, in the name of Your Lord, who created, created man from a clot. Read! And Your Lord is the most bountiful” … (Bukhari, I, No. 3; VI, No. 478; Muslim I, No. 301.)

Hadith ~ Devils and the rebels from the jinn are tied down

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

Narrated Abu-Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him): ‘The Messenger of Allah (May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection) said: “When it is the first night of Ramadan, the devils and the rebels from the jinn are tied down; the gates of the Fire are closed and no gate of them is opened but the gates of Paradise are opened and no gate of them is closed. And a caller calls: “O you who intends to do good, go ahead. O you who intend to do evil, abstain. And for Allah, there are people acquitted from the Fire every night.'” (At-Termizi)

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous) (Abridged)
By Imam An Nawawi Vol. (2)
Publisher: Dar Al-Manarah
ISBN: 977.6005.23.3
Chapter 201, Page 803, Number 662

Hadith ~ Breaking the Saum (Fasting)

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

Salman bin ‘Amir (MAPH) reported: I heard the Prophet (SAWS) saying, “When one of you breaks his Saum (fasting), let him break it on dates; if he does not have any, break his fast with water for it is pure.” (Abu Dawud).

Anas (MAPH) reported: The Messenger of Allah (SAWS) used to break his Saum (fasting) before performing Maghrib prayer with three fresh date-fruits; if there were no fresh date-fruits, he will eat three dry dates; and if there were no dry date-fruits; he would take three draughts of water. (At-Tirmidhi).

Sahl bin Sa’d (MAPH) reported: The Messenger of Allah (SAWS) said, “People will continue to adhere to good as long as they hasten to break the Saum (fasting).” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Commentary Hadith 1 and 2: It is well to keep the priorities of things mentioned in the Hadith as one gets the reward of following the Sunnah in breaking his Saum.

Commentary Hadith 3: “Adhere to good” here means welfare of the religion as well as that of this world. Breaking the Saum early does not mean that it is terminated before the prescribed time. What it really means is without any delay after the sunset. One should not delay it for the mere reason that the rigour one has gone through in the Saum should be enhanced further, as is done by some people. There is no merit in such things because the real merit lies in following the Sunnah of the Prophet (SAWS). Welfare of the Muslims will, therefore, come in the share of the Muslims because of their following the Prophet’s Sunnah of breaking the Saum in the early moments of the prescribed time.

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 222, Page 360, No 1238
Hadith 2: Chapter 222, Page 360, No 1239
Hadith 3: Chapter 222, Page 359, No 1233

Hadith ~ Protecting As-Saum (the Fast)

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

Abu Hurairah (MAPH) reported: The Messenger of Allah (SAWS) said, “When any one of you is observing Saum (fasting) on a day, he should neither indulge in obscene language nor should he raise the voice; and if anyone reviles him or tries to quarrel with him he should say: ‘I am observing fast.'” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim).

Abu Hurairah (MAPH) reported: The Prophet (SAWS) said, “If one does not eschew lies and false conduct, Allah has no need that he should abstain from his food and his drink.” (Al-Bukhari).

Commentary Hadith 1: We learn from this Hadith that during Saum not only food, drink and intimate relations with one’s spouse are prohibited but the improper use of the tongue and the other organs of the body as well. When one is observing Saum, he should neither use abusive language nor talk foolishly nor tell lies nor make obscene conversation nor indulge in backbiting nor quarrel with anyone. If someone provokes him, he should keep himself quiet and remember that he is observing Saum and he has to abstain from such things. As far as possible, he should keep his tongue engaged in the remembrance of Allah and recitation of the Quran.

Commentary Hadith 2: This Hadith exhorts those observing Saum to fulfill all the requirements of fasting. One should not conduct himself in such a manner that on the one side he observes Saum and on the other he is fearless of Allah. To save himself from Allah’s Wrath and to get the reward of the fasts, one must abstain from all sorts of vices, such as cheating, lying, backbiting, and using obscene language. The threat held against such people in this Hadith should make them fear that their Saum will go to waste and they would be deprived of its reward. It does not mean that such people should start eating and drinking during Saum but what is intended is that they should save themselves from all kinds of sins so that they may earn the reward of Saum.

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 223, Page 360, No 1240
Hadith 2: Chapter 223, Page 361, No 1241

Commentary ~ Quran Reading Schedule

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

Quran Reading Schedule – PDF Document

Ibn Mas’ud (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection) said: “Whoever recites a letter from the Book of Allah, he will be credited with a good deed, and a good deed gets ten-fold reward. I do not say that Alif-Lam-Mim is one letter, but Alif is a letter, Lam is a letter and Mim is a letter.” (At-Tirmidhi)

Abdullah bin ‘Amr bin Al-‘As (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection) said: “The one who was devoted to the Quran will be told on the Day of Resurrection: ‘Recite and ascend (in ranks) as you used to recite when you were in the world. Your rank will be at the last Ayah you recite.'” (Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi)

Commentary:
No one can ignore the benefits of Quranic reading. To simplify the division of this reading and ensure that everyone can complete the Quran in its entirety by the end of Ramadan, a timetable has been crafted for men and women*.

Calendar of reading the Quran during Ramadan for Men

Day – Juz Hizb Reading to do
1 Ramadan 1 – 2   Sura 1, v.1 to Sura 2, v.141
2 Ramadan 3 – 4   Sura 2, v.142 jusqu’au Sura 2, v.252
3 Ramadan 5 – 6   Sura 2, v.253 jusqu’au Sura 3, v.92
4 Ramadan 7 – 8   Sura 3, v.93 jusqu’au Sura 4, v.23
5 Ramadan 9 – 10   Sura 4, v.24 jusqu’au Sura 4, v.147
6 Ramadan 11 – 12   Sura 4, v.148 jusqu’au Sura 5, v.81
7 Ramadan 13 – 14   Sura 5, v.82 jusqu’au Sura 6, v.110
8 Ramadan 15 – 16   Sura 6, v.111 jusqu’au Sura 7, v.87
9 Ramadan 17 – 18   Sura 7, v.88 jusqu’au Sura 8, v.40
10 Ramadan 19 – 20   Sura 8, v.41 jusqu’au Sura 9, v.92
11 Ramadan 21 – 22   Sura 9, v.93 jusqu’au Sura 11, v.5
12 Ramadan 23 – 24   Sura 11, v.6 jusqu’au Sura 12, v.52
13 Ramadan 25 – 26   Sura 12, v.53 jusqu’au Sura 14, v.52
14 Ramadan 27 – 28   Sura 15, v.1 jusqu’au Sura 16, v.128
15 Ramadan 29 – 30   Sura 17, v.1 jusqu’au Sura 18, v.74
16 Ramadan 31 – 32   Sura 18, v.75 jusqu’au Sura 20, v.135
17 Ramadan 33 – 34   Sura 21, v.1 jusqu’au Sura 22, v.78
18 Ramadan 35 – 36   Sura 23, v.1 jusqu’au Sura 25, v.20
19 Ramadan 37 – 38   Sura 25, v.21 jusqu’au Sura 27, v.55
20 Ramadan 39 – 40   Sura 27, v.56 jusqu’au Sura 29, v.45
21 Ramadan 41 – 42   Sura 29, v.46 jusqu’au Sura 33, v.30
22 Ramadan 43 – 44   Sura 33, v.31 jusqu’au Sura 36, v.27
23 Ramadan 45 – 46   Sura 36, v.28 jusqu’au Sura 39, v.31
24 Ramadan 47 – 48   Sura 39, v.32 jusqu’au Sura 41, v.46
25 Ramadan 49 – 50   Sura 41, v.47 jusqu’au Sura 45, v.37
26 Ramadan 51 – 52   Sura 46, v.1 jusqu’au Sura 51, v.30
27 Ramadan 53 – 54   Sura 51, v.31 jusqu’au Sura 57, v.29
28 Ramadan 55 – 56   Sura 58, v.1 jusqu’au Sura 66, v.12
29 Ramadan 57 – 58   Sura 67, v.1 jusqu’au Sura 77, v.50
30 Ramadan 59 – 60   Sura 78, v.1 jusqu’au Sura 114, v.6

Calendar of reading the Quran during Ramadan for Women*

Day – Juz Hizb Reading to do
1 Ramadan 1 – 3   Sura 1, v.1 to Sura 2, v.202
2 Ramadan 4 – 6   Sura 2, v.203 jusqu’au Sura 3, v.92
3 Ramadan 7 – 9   Sura 3, v.93 to Sura 4, v.87
4 Ramadan 10 – 12   Sura 4, v.88 jusqu’au Sura 5, v.81
5 Ramadan 13 – 15   Sura 5, v.82 to Sura 6, v.165
6 Ramadan 16 – 18   Sura 7, v.1 jusqu’au Sura 8, v.40
7 Ramadan 19 – 21   Sura 8, v.41 to Sura 10, v.25
8 Ramadan 22 – 24   Sura 10, v.26 jusqu’au Sura 12, v.52
9 Ramadan 25 – 27   Sura 12, v.53 to Sura 16, v.50
10 Ramadan 28 – 30   Sura 16, v.51 jusqu’au Sura 18, v.74
11 Ramadan 31 – 33   Sura 18, v.75 to Sura 21, v.112
12 Ramadan 34 – 36   Sura 22, v.1 jusqu’au Sura 25, v.20
13 Ramadan 37 – 39   Sura 25, v.21 to Sura 28, v.50
14 Ramadan 40 – 42   Sura 28, v.51 jusqu’au Sura 33, v.30
15 Ramadan 43 – 45   Sura 33, v.31 to Sura 37, v.144
16 Ramadan 46 – 48   Sura 37, v.145 jusqu’au Sura 41, v.46
17 Ramadan 49 – 51   Sura 41, v.47 to Sura 48, v.17
18 Ramadan 52 – 54   Sura 48, v.18 jusqu’au Sura 57, v.29
19 Ramadan 55 – 57   Sura 58, v.1 to Sura 71, v.28
20 Ramadan 58 – 60   Sura 72, v.1 jusqu’au Sura 114, v.6

*Because women may have missed days of fasting during Ramadan, the division was spread over 20 days, at 3 hizb per day, leaving them with a sufficient margin in case of a temporary interruption of their month. It is indeed better to set a reading pace of 3 hizb per day instead of trying to catch up 5-6 days of readings.

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Hadith 1: Chapter 180, Page 299, No 999
Hadith 2: Chapter 180, Page 299, No 1001

Ayaat 183-187 ~ Al-Baqarah (The Cow)

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

Listen to Recitation

183. O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous –

184. [Fasting for] a limited number of days. So whoever among you is ill or on a journey [during them] – then an equal number of days [are to be made up]. And upon those who are able [to fast, but with hardship] – a ransom [as substitute] of feeding a poor person [each day]. And whoever volunteers good [i.e., excess] – it is better for him. But to fast is best for you, if you only knew.

185. The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month[1], let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey – then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship and [wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and perhaps you will be grateful.

186. And when My servants ask you, [O Muhammad], concerning Me – indeed I am near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls upon Me. So let them respond to Me [by obedience] and believe in Me that they may be [rightly] guided.

187. It has been made permissible for you the night preceding fasting to go to your wives [for sexual relations]. They are clothing for you and you are clothing for them. Allah knows that you used to deceive yourselves[2], so He accepted your repentance and forgave you. So now, have relations with them and seek that which Allah has decreed for you [i.e., offspring]. And eat and drink until the white thread of dawn becomes distinct to you from the black thread [of night]. Then complete the fast until the night [i.e., sunset]. And do not have relations with them as long as you are staying for worship in the mosques. These are the limits [set by] Allah, so do not approach them. Thus does Allah make clear His verses [i.e., ordinances] to the people that they may become righteous.

Sura 2. Al-Baqarah (The Cow)

[1] Also, “whoever is present during the month.”

[2] Prior to this revelation, marital relations were unlawful during nights preceding fasting. Some were unable to refrain and secretly disobeyed, but they did not deceive Allah.

Hadith ~ Whoever observes fasting

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

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, “He who observes fasting during the month of Ramadan with Faith while seeking its reward from Allah, will have his past sins forgiven.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim).

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Chapter 217, Page 355, No 1219

Hadith ~ Fast when you see the New Moon (of Ramadan)

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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: “Fast when you see the new moon (of Ramadan) and break your fast when you see the new moon (of Shawwal.) If clouds prevent you from seeing it, complete thirty days in the month of Shaban (the one that precedes Ramadan). (Al-Bukhari and Muslim).

Commentary: (…) If the moon of Ramadan is not sighted on the 29th Sha’ban, then its thirty days be completed and Ramadan’s Saum be started on the next day. Similarly, if the moon for the month of Shawwal is not sighted on the 29th of Ramadan, thirty days of Saum must be completed before celebrating ‘Eid-ul-Fitr. This means that the sighting of the moon is necessary for keeping the Saum of Ramadan. Counting by celestial system is not sufficient for this purpose. (…)

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Chapter 217, Page 356, No 1221

Ayaat 1-7 ~ Al-Fatiha

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In the name of Allah, the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful

Listen to Recitation

1. In the name of Allah, the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful[1].

2. [All] praise is [due] to Allah, Lord of the worlds –

3. The Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful,

4. Sovereign of the Day of Recompense.

5. It is You we worship and You we ask for help.

6. Guide us to the straight path –

7. The path of those upon whom You have bestowed favor, not of those who have evoked [Your] anger or of those who are astray[2].

Sura 1. Al-Fatiha

[1] This is the formula that the Muslim pronounces at the beginning of any act, thus remembering his Creator and his Guide and asking for His help to accomplish it well.

[2] After the recitation, the word “Amine” is pronounced.

Ayaat 9-11 ~ Al-Jumu’ah (Friday)

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

Listen to Recitation

9. O you who believe (Muslims)! When the call is proclaimed for the Salât (prayer) on the day of Friday (Jumu’ah prayer), come to the remembrance of Allâh [Jumu’ah religious talk (Khutbah) and Salât (prayer)] and leave off business (and every other thing), that is better for you if you did but know!

10. Then when the (Jumu’ah) Salât (prayer) is finished, you may disperse through the land, and seek the Bounty of Allâh (by working, etc.), and remember Allâh much, that you may be successful.

11. And when they see some merchandise or some amusement [beating of Tambur (drum) etc.] they disperse headlong to it, and leave you (Muhammad ) standing [while delivering Jumu’ah’s religious talk (Khutbah)]. Say “That which Allâh has is better than any amusement or merchandise! And Allâh is the Best of providers.”

Sura 62. Al-Jumu’ah (Friday)

Ayaat 14-16 ~ Ta-Ha

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

Listen to Recitation

14. “Verily! I am Allâh! Lâ ilâha illa Ana (none has the right to be worshipped but I), so worship Me, and perform As­Salât for My Remembrance.

15. “Verily, the Hour is coming and My Will is to keep it hidden[1] that every person may be rewarded for that which he strives.

16. “Therefore, let not the one who believes not therein, but follows his own lusts, divert you therefrom[2], lest you perish.

Sura 20. Ta-Ha

[1]: Meaning that Allah (subuanahu wa taala) keeps knowledge of the Hour hidden from everyone except Himself.

[2]: From preparation for the Hour or for the Hereafter.

Commentary ~ Three Questions

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

  • You are ashamed in front of people who do not themselves have a clean face. Why would you not be ashamed, for once, before Allah?

  • Allah puts a veil over your sins so that one day you will be ashamed. But who can say how long this privilege lasts?

  • Is there anyone who has knocked on the door of Allah’s Mercy without receiving anything?

Hadith ~ Only one cubit between him and it

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

‘Abdullah bin Mas’ud (MAPH) reported: Messenger of Allah (SAWS), the truthful and the receiver of the truth informed us, saying, “The creation of you (humans) is gathered in the form of semen in the womb of your mother for forty days, then it becomes a clinging thing in similar (period), then it becomes a lump of flesh like that, then Allah sends an angel who breathes the life into it; and (the angel) is commanded to record four things about it: Its provision, its term of life (in this world), its conduct; and whether it will be happy or miserable. By the One besides Whom there is no true god! Verily, one of you would perform the actions of the dwellers of Jannah until there is only one cubit between him and it (Jannah), when what is foreordained would come to pass and he would perform the actions of the inmates of Hell until he enter it. And one of you would perform the actions of the inmates of Hell, until there is only one cubit between him and Hell. Then he would perform the acts of the dwellers of Jannah until he would enter it. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Commentary 1: This Hadith should make one remove any ego, racism, or thought that one is better or superior than anybody else or that one becomes too confidant that they are destined to Jannah (only Allah knows who is) and at the same time this Hadith should remove any hate or feeling that somebody is worse or bad or is destined to Hell (only Allah knows who is). Abu Soufian (MAPH) spent twenty years fighting the Messenger of Allah (SAWS) and became a Muslim at the end. The Messenger’s uncle Abu Talib spent his life helping Rasoul Allah (SAWS) and died not accepting Islam. We must live in balance between Hope in Allah’s Mercy and Fear in Allah’s Anger. Allah is Just and everybody will get what they have earned and not one deed good or bad will be unaccounted for (but remember with repentance Allah turns those bad deeds into good deeds). Allah Alim.

Commentary 2: Commentary: This Hadith deals with the problem of fate in which Faith is essential. What it means is that Almighty Allah already knows about every person, whether he will be pious or impious, whether he will go to Jannah or Hell. He has already recorded all this. But it does not mean that man is absolutely helpless and is deprived of will and power, as is believed by some deviant sects who have gone astray. Fate is in fact a manifestation of the Knowledge of Allah and it has nothing to do with the will and intention of a person. Allah has not created man as a helpless creature, but has endowed him with the freedom of will and action, because in the absence of these two qualities, there would be no justification for his trial. He could only be put to test if he was granted not only the ability to choose between good and evil but also the freedom to act. For this purpose, Almighty Allah, has clearly indicated to man both the paths and granted him freedom to choose whichever he likes. He has also told him the ultimate end of each. The Noble Qur’an says:

Indeed, We guided him to the way, be he grateful or be he ungrateful. (Koran 76.3)

And say, “The truth is from your Lord, so whoever wills – let him believe; and whoever wills – let him disbelieve.”… (Koran 18:29)

But by mentioning this Hadith in the chapter relating to the fear of Allah, Imam An-Nawawi has warned that we should be fearful of Allah, pray for His Help, and an auspicious end of our life. He has advised us to adopt whatever means are available to us. In other words, we should make Faith and piety a way of life because one can find the means and resources according to one’s capacity. Since nobody knows the result of his endeavours, one should leave it to Allah and rest assured that He Who has created him with a purpose will also create the ways and means to attain it. He who adopts piety, the ways to piety will open for him; and he who adopts evil, the ways to evil will open for him.

A Muslim should never go towards evil at any stage of his life, lest his life comes to an end suddenly and he is deprived of the reward of all the good deeds he has done during his life and consequently he is consigned to Hell rather than Jannah. May Allah save us from a bad end and such actions which lead one to Hell.

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: Chapter 50, Page 134, Number 396

Ayaat 12-19 ~ Luqman

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

Listen to Recitation

12. And We had certainly given Luqman wisdom [and said], “Be grateful to Allah.” And whoever is grateful is grateful for [the benefit of] himself. And whoever denies [His favor] – then indeed, Allah is Free of need and Praiseworthy.

13. And [mention, O Mohammad], when Luqman said to his son while he was instructing him, “O my son, do not associate [anything] with Allah. Indeed, association [with Him] is great injustice.”

14. And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and to your parents; to Me is the [final] destination.

15. But if they endeavor to make you associate with Me that of which you have no knowledge, do not obey them but accompany them in [this] world with appropriate kindness and follow the way of those who turn back to Me [in repentance]. Then to Me will be your return, and I will inform you about what you used to do.

16. [And Luqman said], “O my son, indeed if it [i.e., a wrong] should be the weight of a mustard seed and should be within a rock or [anywhere] in the heavens or in the earth, Allah will bring it forth. Indeed, Allah is Subtle and Acquainted.

17. O my son, establish prayer, enjoin what is right, forbid what is wrong, and be patient over what befalls you. Indeed, [all] that is of the matters [requiring] resolve.

18. And do not turn your cheek [in contempt] toward people and do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.

19. And be moderate in your pace and lower your voice; indeed, the most disagreeable of sounds is the voice of donkeys.”

Sura 31. Luqman

Commentary ~ Verily, with the hardship, there is relief

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

So verily, with the hardship, there is relief, Verily, with the hardship, there is relief. (Koran 94.6-7)

Eating follows hunger, drinking follows thirst, sleep comes after restlessness, and health takes the place of sickness. The lost will find their way, the one in difficulty will find relief, and the day will follow the night.

…Perhaps Allah may bring a victory or a decision according to His Will… (Koran 5.52)

Inform the night of a coming morning, the light of which will permeate the mountains and valleys. Give to the afflicted tidings of a sudden relief that will reach them with the speed of light or with the blinking of an eye.

If you see the desert extends for miles and miles, then know that beyond that distance are green meadows with plentiful shade. If you see the rope tighten and tighten, know that it will snap.

Tears are followed by a smile, fear is replaced by comfort, and anxiety is overthrown by serenity. When the fire was set for him, Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) (PBUH) did not feel its heat because of the help he received from his Lord.

We (Allah) said: “O fire! Be you coolness and safety for Ibrahim (Abraham)!” (Koran 21.69)

The sea would not drown Prophet Musa (Moses) (PBUH), because he uttered in a confident, strong, and truthful manner:

[Mûsa (Moses)] said: “Nay, verily! With me is my Lord, He will guide me.” (Koran 26.62)

The Prophet Muhammad (SAWS) told Abu Bakr (DAS) in the cave that Allah was with them:

Narrated Abu Bakr (MAPH): ‘I said to the Prophet (SAWS) while I was in the Cave: “If anyone of them looked around under his feet, he would see us.” The Prophet (SAWS) said: “O Abu-Bakr! What do you think of two (persons) the third of whom is Allah? (Bukhari) Source

then peace and tranquility descended upon them.

Those that are slaves of the moment see only misery and wretchedness. This is because they look only at the wall and door of the room, whereas they should look beyond such barriers as are set before them.

Therefore do not be in despair: it is impossible for things to remain the same. The days and years rotate, the future is unseen, and every day Allah has matters to bring forth. You know it not, but it may be that Allah will afterwards bring some new thing to pass. And verily, with hardship there is relief.

SAWS: May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection
PBUH: May peace be upon him
MAPH: May Allah be satisfied with him

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 40

Hadith ~ What do you think

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

Narrated Abu Bakr (May Allah be satisfied with him): ‘I said to the Prophet (SAWS) while I was in the Cave: “If anyone of them looked around under his feet, he would see us.” The Prophet (SAWS) said: “O Abu-Bakr! What do you think of two (persons) the third of whom is Allah? (Bukhari)

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

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous) (Abridged)
By Imam An Nawawi Vol. (1)
Publisher: Dar Al-Manarah
ISBN: 977.6005.23.3
Chapter 7, Page 168, Number 65

Ayaat 1-10 ~ Al-Araf

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

Listen to recitation

1. Alif, Lam, Mim, Sad.

2. [This is] a Book revealed to you, [O Muhammad] – so let there not be in your breast distress therefrom – that you may warn thereby and as a reminder to the believers.

3. Follow, [O mankind], what has been revealed to you from your Lord and do not follow other than Him any allies. Little do you remember.

4. And how many cities have We destroyed, and Our punishment came to them at night or while they were sleeping at noon.

5. And their declaration when Our punishment came to them was only that they said, “Indeed, we were wrongdoers!”

6. Then We will surely question those to whom [a message] was sent, and We will surely question the messengers[2].

7. Then We will surely relate [their deeds] to them with knowledge, and We were not [at all] absent.

8. And the weighing [of deeds] that Day will be the truth. So those whose scales are heavy – it is they who will be the successful.

9. And those whose scales are light – they are the ones who will lose themselves for what injustice they were doing toward Our verses.

10. And We have certainly established you upon the earth and made for you therein ways of livelihood. Little are you grateful.

Sura 7. Al-Araf

[1] Al-Araf: The Elevations, referring to the partition between Paradise and Hell. We will keep the word al-Araf because there is no equivalent in English.

[2] the messengers: here the Prophets (peace be upon them) who have a mission with men or the Angels (peace be upon them) who carry out the orders of Allah.

Hadith ~ Afflicts him with trials

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

Narrated Abu-Huraira (May Allah be satisfied with him): ‘Allah’s Messenger (May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection) said: “If Allah wants to do good to somebody, He afflicts him with trials.” (Bukhari)

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous) (Abridged)
By Imam An Nawawi Vol. (1)
Publisher: Dar Al-Manarah
ISBN: 977.6005.23.3
Chapter 3, Page 122, Number 37

Commentary ~ Death is hovering above us

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

It is incumbent upon everyone to realize that death is hovering above us. At any moment, day or night, death can come. Ali (May Allah be pleased with him) expressed in lucid terms the reality of our life:

“The Hereafter is traveling towards us and this life is traveling away from us, so be from the children of the Hereafter and not from the children of this world. For today is action without reckoning (judgment), and tomorrow is reckoning without action.”

From this saying, we can learn how imperative it is for us to improve ourselves, to renew our repentance, and to know that we are dealing with Allah, Who is Most Generous and All-Powerful.

Death does not ask a person for permission prior to arrival, nor does it give one an early warning about its being on its way:

…No person knows what he will earn tomorrow, and no person knows in what land he will die. Verily, Allâh is All­Knower, All­Aware (of things). (Koran 31.34)

Say: “The appointment to you is for a Day, which you cannot put back for an hour (or a moment) nor put forward.” (Koran 34.30)

Ash-Shaykh Ali at-Tantawi related a story that equally illustrates the unexpectedness of death. A bus full of people was moving when the driver suddenly pressed on the brakes. The passengers asked him what was wrong. He said, “I am stopping for this old man who is waving so that he can get on the bus.” They all said in wonder, “We do not see anyone.” He said, “Look at him over there.” They repeated that there was no one to be seen. He said confidently, “Now look, he is coming to get in.” Now the situation was beyond wonder, and they exclaimed, “By Allah, we don’t see anyone.” Then, in an instant, the driver died in his seat.

Thus death came to him in the most bizarre and unexpected of scenarios:

…When their term is reached, neither can they delay it nor can they advance it an hour [or a moment]. (Koran 7.34)

Man is cowardly when he faces danger; his heart begins to thump when the possibility of death arises, and then, without prior warning, he dies at a time when he feels most safe.

(They are) the ones who said about their killed brethren while they themselves sat (at home): “If only they had listened to us, they would not have been killed.” Say: “Avert death from your ownselves, if you speak the truth.” (Koran 3.168)

The strange thing is that we do not think about meeting Allah or about the transient nature of this life.

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 426

Hadith ~ Make for him a way out

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

Malek Al-Achja’i -may God be pleased with him-, reports that Ibn Ishaq, came to the Prophet (SAWS) and said to him: “My son ‘Awf was taken captive!”. He replied: “Send to tell him that the Messenger of Allah commands you to repeat often: “There is neither power nor strength except in Allah” (Transliteration: la hawla wala quwwata illa billah OR la hawla wala quwwata illa billahil aliyyil azim). Indeed, the envoy transmitted these words to ‘Awf who complied and spent most of his time repeating them. As he was tied up, he found that his bond came loose. He managed to escape and, finding a camel on his way out, he mounted her and left. On his way, he met a herd of camels, brought them with him and, when he arrived home, called his parents. His father exclaimed: “It is indeed the voice of ‘Awf, I swear by the Lord of the Ka’ba”. But his mother answered him: “Oh what a misfortune! How could he be ‘Awf when he’s a prisoner and tied up?”. The father and servant went out to find ‘Awf with a large herd of camels, and he told his father what had happened. The father went to the Messenger of Allah (SAWS) and told him everything. He said to him, “Allah on that occasion made this revelation: …And whoever fears Allah – He will make for him a way out And will provide for him from where he does not expect. And whoever relies upon Allah – then He is sufficient for him. Indeed, Allah will accomplish His purpose. Allah has already set for everything a [decreed] extent. [Koran 65 2-3]

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

Translated from:
The Compagnons of the Prophet (SAWS) (Hayat-Assahaba)
By Mouhammad Youssef Al-Kandahlawi – Volume II
Translated by Fawzi Chaaban
Editor: Dar El Fikr – Beyrouth/Liban
Page 398

Ayaat 87-88 ~ Al-Anbiyah’ (The Prophets)

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

Listen to Recitation

87. And (remember) Dhan-Nûn (Jonah), when he went off in anger, and imagined that We shall not punish him (i.e. the calamites which had befallen him)! But he cried through the darkness (saying): Lâ ilâha illa Anta [none has the right to be worshipped but You (O Allâh)], Glorified (and Exalted) are You [above all that (evil) they associate with You]. Truly, I have been of the wrong-doers.”

88. So We answered his call, and delivered him from the distress. And thus We do deliver the believers (who believe in the Oneness of Allâh, abstain from evil and work righteousness).

Sura 21. Al-Anbiyah’ (The Prophets)

Commentary ~ The Essence of the Story of Yusuf (PBUH)

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

They said: “Are you indeed Yûsuf?” He said: “I am Yûsuf (Joseph), and this is my brother. Allâh has indeed been gracious to us… (Koran 12.90)

I want you to pay attention to the following segment of the ayah. If you were to forget everything that we said in the story of Yusuf (peace be upon him) make sure you don’t forget this. Because this is the essence of the story of Yusuf. Keep in mind that this story was revealed to the Messenger of Allah (SAWS) when? In Makkah. When in Makkah? In the year of sorrow, when Abu Talib passed away, Khadija (may Allah have Mercy on her) passed away and the Messenger of Allah (SAWS) found no one to support him with strength, his uncle Abu Talib. No one to support him financially, his wife Khadija. That was the year of sorrow. It was not only sorrow on the Messenger of Allah (SAWS) because he lost his uncle and he lost his beloved wife but because the dawah (of Islam) was already limited and now additional barriers were being erected in the face of the Messenger of Allah (SAWS). Before that the Messenger of Allah had strength since his uncle was providing him with an umbrella and his wife was comforting him at home. Now the Messenger of Allah has lost these two supporters and the heart of the Messenger of Allah (SAWS) was filled with sadness and sorrow. Those moments that the Messenger of Allah (SAWS) was going through are unbearable. In those moments, the Messenger of Allah is receiving sura Yusuf. In this particular situation sura Yusuf is being revealed because that is what Koran is for

…Thus (it is sent down in parts), that We may strengthen your heart thereby… (Koran 25.32)

So Koran was being revealed on the Messenger of Allah (SAWS) in the appropriate times, for the appropriate situations and to serve the appropriate purpose. So in that specific period of this year of sorrow, Allah reveals to the Messenger of Allah the story of Yusuf. It is the story of someone who went through difficulty, trials, misery, sorrow and sadness but then in the end

…Allâh has indeed been gracious to us… (Koran 12.90)

Why? Allah says in this segment of the ayah the essence of sura Yusuf:

…Verily, he who fears Allâh with obedience to Him (Taqwa – by abstaining from sins and evil deeds, and by performing righteous good deeds), and is patient, then surely, Allâh makes not the reward of the Muhsinûn (good-doers – see V.2:112) to be lost.” (Koran 12.90)

If you have Taqwa and patience eventually you will win even after awhile. If you have taqwa and patience no matter what in the end you will be victorious. And you should have no doubt in that. Saidna Yusuf was victorious in the end, in dounia (this life) and in Ehkira (the Hereafter). It is not only in dounia. In dounia and in Ehkira. But it happened after awhile, it took awhile, it wasn’t swiftly on the same day, it took awhile. Therefore it needs patience. If you do not have patience you will not be able to survive the long road. So Allah is telling the Messenger of Allah (SAWS) that there is a lot struggling, there is a lot of striving but if you have patience and you have Taqwa in Allah, the Exalted, Allah will establish you on the land. There is no victory without patience.

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

Source:
Audio lecture “Lives of the Prophets”.
The full audio series may be downloaded here.

Hadith ~ In complete submission

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

“O people! Do not be too eager from the demand of this world. A person only gets what has been pre-written for them and no person will leave this world before what has been assigned to them from this world comes to them in complete submission.”

Translated from:
Riyad as-Salihin (Les Jardins des vertueux)
de l’Imam Mohieddine Annawawi 631 – 676
Traduction et Commentaire du Dr Salaheddine Keshrid (Tunisie)
Éditeur: Dar Al-Gharb Al-Islami
P45

Ayaat 63-77 ~ Al-Furqan (The Criterion)

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

Listen to Recitation

63. And the slaves of the Most Beneficent (Allâh) are those who walk on the earth in humility and sedateness, and when the foolish address them (with bad words) they reply back with mild words of gentleness.

64. And those who spend the night before their Lord, prostrate and standing.

65. And those who say: “Our Lord! Avert from us the torment of Hell. Verily! Its torment is ever an inseparable, permanent punishment.”

66. Evil indeed it (Hell) is as an abode and as a place to dwell.

67. And those, who, when they spend, are neither extravagant nor niggardly, but hold a medium (way) between those (extremes).

68. And those who invoke not any other ilâh (god) along with Allâh, nor kill such life as Allâh has forbidden, except for just cause, nor commit illegal sexual intercourse and whoever does this shall receive the punishment.

69. The torment will be doubled to him on the Day of Resurrection, and he will abide therein in disgrace;

70. Except those who repent and believe (in Islâmic Monotheism), and do righteous deeds, for those, Allâh will change their sins into good deeds, and Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

71. And whosoever repents and does righteous good deeds, then verily, he repents towards Allâh with true repentance.

72. And those who do not witness falsehood, and if they pass by some evil play or evil talk, they pass by it with dignity.

73. And those who, when they are reminded of the Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) of their Lord, fall not deaf and blind thereat.

74. And those who say: “Our Lord! Bestow on us from our wives and our offspring who will be the comfort of our eyes, and make us leaders for the Muttaqûn” (pious – see V.2:2 and the footnote of V.3:164).”

75. Those will be rewarded with the highest place (in Paradise) because of their patience. Therein they shall be met with greetings and the word of peace and respect.

76. Abiding therein; excellent it is as an abode, and as a place to dwell.

77. Say: “My Lord pays attention to you only because of your invocation to Him. But now you have indeed denied (Him). So the torment will be yours for ever (inseparable permanent punishment).”

Sura 25. Al-Furqan (The Criterion)

Commentary ~ Baraka

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

Near Temen, in the city of Darvan lived a man full of generosity, kindness, maturity and reason. His house was the meeting place of the disadvantaged, the poor and melancholy. He was accustomed in distributing a tenth of his crops.

When wheat became flour and they made bread, he distributed a tenth. Whatever the nature or amount of the crop, he did so, four times a year, similar distribution. One day, he gave this advice to his children:

“When I am dead, perpetuate this tradition so that Baraka is in your harvest. Fruit from the harvest comes from the Unknown because it is Allah who provides it. If you dispose properly from His bounty, the door of profit will open for you. As do the farmers who sow without delay a part of their harvest. Sometimes what is sown is more important than that what is grown. It doesn’t matter! They have trust! Similarly, the shoemaker goes without in order to buy leather because this is the source of his income. But the earth or leather are only veils. The true source of gain is what Allah offers us. If you return your gains at the source, you will get a return on your investment hundredfold. Imagine that you placed your gains where you thought is their source and that nothing grows for two or three years. There will be nothing left to do except to supplicate to Allah.”

“Remember, it is Allah who gives us joy, not wine or hashish. No real help will come to us from your uncles, your brothers, your father or your children. Know this: A day will come when they will move away from you and your friends will become your enemies. Throughout your life, all they did was block your way like idols.”

“If a friend leaves you with resentment, jealousy or anger, do not be sad. Instead, give out charity and thank Allah for it. It was due to ignorance that you were attached to this friend in the first place. But now that you have escaped his nets, seek therefore a true friend. A true friend is someone whose friendship doesn’t ever cool, not even by death.”

“Remember this: sow your seed on the land of Allah so that your crop is safe from thieves and disasters at any time, the devil always threatens you with poverty. Don’t become his prey. On the contrary, let us hunt him. It is not worthy that the sultan’s hawk is chased by a partridge.”

But this wise man sowed the seed of wisdom on a barren land. (…) So mesmerized by the idea of sacrificing a tenth of their earnings, many people forget the Baraka they would get by doing so.

Hadith ~ Three men in a cave

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

Narrated Abdullah ibn Omar (may Allah be pleased with him): ‘I heard Allah’s Messenger (SAWS) saying: “Three men from among those who were before you, set out together until they reached a cave at night and they entered it. A big rock rolled down the mountain and closed the mouth of the cave. They said (to each other): ‘Nothing can save us from this rock but to invoke Allah by mentioning the righteous deeds that we have done (for Allah’s sake only).” So, one of them said: ‘O Allah! I had old parents (whom I used to provide with milk) and I never provided my family (wife, children, etc.) with milk before them. One day, by chance I was delayed, and I arrived late (at night) after they had slept. I milked the sheep for them and then took the milk to them, but I found them sleeping. I did not like to offer my family the milk before them, so I waited for them and the bowl of milk was in my hand and I kept on waiting for them to get up until dawn. Then they got up and drank the milk. O Allah! If I did that for Your sake only, I invoke You to relieve us from our critical situation that has been caused by this rock.’ So, the rock moved a little, but they could not get out. The Prophet (SAWS) added: “The second man said: ‘O Allah! I had a cousin who was the dearest of all people to me and I wanted to have sexual intercourse with her, but she refused. Later she came across hard times during a year of famine and she came to me, and I gave her one hundred and twenty dinars on the condition that she would not resist my desires, and she agreed. When I was about to fulfill my desires, she said: “It is illegal for you to violate my chastity except through legitimate marriage.” So, I realized it was a sin to have sexual intercourse with her and left her, though she was the dearest of all people to me. I also left the gold I had given her. O Allah! If I did that for Your sake only, please relieve us from the present calamity.’ So, the rock moved a little more, but still they could not get out from the cave. The Prophet (SAWS) added: “Then the third man said: ‘O Allah! I employed few laborers and I paid them all of them their wages, with the exception of one man who did not take his wages and went away. I invested his wages and I gained much profit from this. (Then after some time) he came and said to me: “O Allah’s servant! Pay me my wages.” I said to him: “All the camels, cows, sheep, and slaves that you see here, are yours.” He said: “O Allah’s slave! Don’t mock me.” I said: “I am not mocking you.” So, he took the herd and drove them away and left nothing. O Allah! If I did that for Your sake only, please relieve us from the present suffering.’ So, the rock moved completely and they walked out. (Bukhari)

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

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous) (Abridged)
By Imam An Nawawi Vol. (1)
Publisher: Dar Al-Manarah
ISBN: 977.6005.23.3
Chapter 1, Page 77, Number 12

Ayaat 14-19 ~ Muhammad

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

14. Is he who is on a clear proof from his Lord, like those for whom their evil deeds that they do are beautified for them, while they follow their own lusts (evil desires)?

15. The description of Paradise which the Muttaqûn (pious – see V.2:2) have been promised is that in it are rivers of water the taste and smell of which are not changed; rivers of milk of which the taste never changes; rivers of wine delicious to those who drink; and rivers of clarified honey (clear and pure) therein for them is every kind of fruit; and forgiveness from their Lord. (Are these) like those who shall dwell for ever in the Fire, and be given, to drink, boiling water, so that it cuts up their bowels?

16. And among them are some who listen to you till, when they go out from you, they say to those who have received knowledge: “What has he said just now? Such are men whose hearts Allâh has sealed, and they follow their lusts (evil desires).

17. While as for those who accept guidance, He increases their guidance, and bestows on them their piety.

18. Do they then await (anything) other than the Hour, that it should come upon them suddenly? But some of its portents (indications and signs) have already come, and when it (actually) is on them, how can they benefit then by their reminder?

19. So know that Lâ ilâha ill-Allâh (none has the right to be worshipped but Allâh), and ask forgiveness for your sin, and also for (the sin of) believing men and believing women. And Allâh knows well your moving about, and your place of rest (in your homes).

Sura 47. Muhammad

Hadith ~ The Orphan

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

Sahl bin Sa’d (MAPH) reported: Messenger of Allah (SAWS) said, “I will be like this in Jannah with the person who takes care of an orphan”. Messenger of Allah (SAWS) raised his forefinger and middle finger by way of illustration. (Al-Bukhari).

Abu Hurairah (MAPH) reported: Messenger of Allah (SAWS) said, “He who takes care of an orphan, whether he is his relative or a stranger, will be in Jannah with me like these two”. The narrator, Malik bin Anas raised his forefinger and middle finger for illustration. (Muslim).

Abu Hurairah (MAPH) reported: The Prophet (SAWS) said, “One who strives to help the widows and the poor is like the one who fights in the way of Allah.” The narrator said: I think that he (SAWS) added also: “I shall regard him as the one who stands up (for prayer) without rest and as the one who observes fasts continuously”. (Al-Bukhari and Muslim).

Commentary 1: It will be indeed a great honour to be close to the Prophet (SAWS) in Jannah. This honour will be given to those who are kind to the orphans. The Prophet (SAWS) has regarded it the ‘best house’ in which an orphan is treated with kindness. He declared the worst home in which an orphan child is not treated with affection.

Commentary 2: There are several charities where orphan sponsorship is available. Seek out those who are reliable and trustworthy to care for orphans and share in the reward that will come with that inshaAllah.

Commentary 3: The Islamic system of welfare and economic security is not restricted to relatives only. It includes every orphan and needy. If Muslims put this system into practice, there will be no need for insurance -a system which is based on usury. May Allah enable the Muslims to adopt the teachings of Islam so that they will be relieved of the curse of the system of usury.

Commentary 4: Here the words ‘widow’ and ‘poor’ have been mentioned for example only while they cover the whole range of indigent, invalid and needy people. Efforts for their care, support and welfare has been regarded equivalent to Jihad. Islam has done full justice in supporting the helpless individuals and the entire poor class of the society by elevating the status of those who undertake this noble task to the level of Mujahidun. It makes it clear that worship is not restricted to prayers and fasting only but also covers every good deed. Thus, those who are always mindful of the weak and the poor and constantly strive for their welfare are engaged in perpetual worship.

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 33, Page 91, Number 262
Hadith 2: Chapter 33, Page 91, Number 263
Hadith 3: Chapter 33, Page 91, Number 265

Ayaat 22-31 ~ An-Nahl (The Bees)

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

Listen to Recitation

22. Your Ilah (God) is One Ilah (God Allah, none has the right to be worshipped but He). But for those who believe not in the Hereafter, their hearts deny (the faith in the Oneness of Allah), and they are proud.

23. Certainly, Allah knows what they conceal and what they reveal. Truly, He likes not the proud.

24. And when it is said to them: “What is it that your Lord has sent down (unto Muhammad)?” They say: “Tales of the men of old!”

25. They will bear their own burdens in full on the Day of Resurrection, and also of the burdens of those whom they misled without knowledge. Evil indeed is that which they shall bear!

26. Those before them indeed plotted, but Allah struck at the foundation of their building, and then the roof fell down upon them, from above them, and the torment overtook them from directions they did not perceive.

27. Then, on the Day of Resurrection, He will disgrace them and will say: “Where are My (so called) ‘partners’ concerning whom you used to disagree and dispute (with the believers, by defying and disobeying Allah)?” Those who have been given the knowledge (about the Torment of Allah for the disbelievers) will say: “Verily! Disgrace this Day and misery are upon the disbelievers.

28. “Those whose lives the angels take while they are doing wrong to themselves (by disbelief and by associating partners in worship with Allah and by committing all kinds of crimes and evil deeds).” Then, they will make (false) submission (saying): “We used not to do any evil.” (The angels will reply): “Yes! Truly, Allah is All-Knower of what you used to do.

29. “So enter the gates of Hell, to abide therein, and indeed, what an evil abode will be for the arrogant.”

30. And (when) it is said to those who are the Muttaqûn (pious – see V.2:2) “What is it that your Lord has sent down?” They say: “That which is good.” For those who do good in this world, there is good, and the home of the Hereafter will be better. And excellent indeed will be the home (i.e. Paradise) of the Muttaqûn.

31. ‘Adn (Eden) Paradise (Gardens of Eternity) which they will enter, under which rivers flow, they will have therein all that they wish. Thus Allah rewards the Muttaqûn.

32. Those whose lives the angels take while they are in a pious state (i.e. pure from all evil, and worshipping none but Allah Alone) saying (to them): Salamun ‘Alaikum (peace be on you) enter you Paradise, because of (the good) which you used to do (in the world).

Sura 16. An-Nahl (The Bees)

Commentary ~ Yet all that we ask for is not granted

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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).

Ibrahim was asked: “How is it that in the Word (Quran), the Lord most High says: “…Invoke Me, I will respond to your (invocation)… (Quran 40.60); yet all that we ask for is not granted. Ibrahim answered: “You have on your tongues the name of the Lord most high, but you do not practice the works He prescribes, you do not adopt the traditions of the Messenger (May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection). You recite the Quran, but you do not act according to its precepts. You enjoy the benefits that Allah grants, but you do not give thanks. Allah created an eternal Paradise for His obedient servants but you do nothing to try to achieve it. You know that Allah has created a Hell for His rebellious slaves, but you do not run away from it in horror. You know, Chaitan (Satan) is your enemy, and, far from being in a state of hostility towards him, you treat him as a friend. You also know that death is inevitable yet you do not practice the works of the Hereafter. You are not even able to learn from seeing what happens here in the dounia (this present world). Full of insight in discerning the faults of others, you do not see your own faults. How do you expect the prayers of people like you to be answered?”