Does a Woman's Prayer Differ from a Man's Prayer?

 

Abu Ishaq Ibrahim ibn Qays ibn Sulayman al-Hadrami said:

"There are thirteen characteristics in which a woman's prayer differs from a man's prayer:

First: She is not required to give the adhān (call to prayer) or the iqāmah (call to stand for prayer).

Second: Congregational prayer is not obligatory upon her.

Third: She may not lead a man in prayer as his imam.

Fourth: She does not deliver the sermon (khutbah) to men.

Fifth: Her presence is not counted toward the congregation required for the Friday prayer (Jumu'ah).

Sixth: The Friday prayer is not obligatory upon her.

Seventh: If she leads women in prayer, she stands in the middle of their row.

Eighth: If something occurs during the prayer requiring attention, she claps her hands.

Ninth: She covers her head and her entire body except for her face and hands.

Tenth: During prayer, she keeps her limbs close together.

Eleventh: In prayer, she presses her abdomen against her thighs.

Twelfth: She lowers her voice in those parts of the prayer where a man would recite aloud.

Thirteenth: She stands behind the rows of men."

Selected from: "Masterpieces of the Righteous Predecessors" by Sheikh Nasser Al Sabi'ei.

Original reference: " Mukhtaṣar al-Khiṣāl, p. 196.".

Translated by: Bint Ibadh

Ihsan: Beautifying One’s Character

By: Hafidh bin Saif Al-Rawahy

“Those who spend (freely) in prosperity or in adversity; who restrain anger and pardon (all) persons – for Allah loves those who do good deeds.” (Qur’an 3:134)

Ihsan in Islam is the quality in human beings that beautifies their character. The word ihsan is derived from Arabic word hasan which has broad meanings such as benevolence, good acts, politeness, sympathy, generosity, tolerance and consideration. Ihsan is referenced extensively in the Qur’an and Sunnah of the Prophet Mohammed (pbuh) as a desirable quality of believers. In a nutshell, ihsan is to do an act or treat others in the best possible way.

Whereas adl (justice) requires that we deal with others fairly, ihsan requires that we should deal with people generously. We should not try to extract our rights from others, but instead perhaps forego them (whenever feasible) so as to create better relations. Similarly, we should try to give others more than their due so as to enjoy harmonious relations in society. Such an attitude of generosity, politeness and benevolence perhaps will win the hearts of others.

The Qur’an has identified several qualities of muhsinin (benevolent people). The first and foremost is infaq (spending in charity). This means that they are not miserly and attached to their wealth, but rather give generously to others and help in alleviating poverty and looking after the oppressed, destitute and less fortunate. Whereas it is relatively easy to give away in charity when one is affluent and has plenty, the quality of muhsinin is that they are equally generous when they themselves face adversity and lacking. The other character of muhsinin is that of a gentle temperament, which helps them in restraining anger and ferocity. They control their temper and do not become aggressive, violent and abusive to others in a fit of anger. The third important character of muhsinin is their forgiving nature. They are ready to pardon the shortcomings of others rather than embark upon taking vengeance. Their other two qualities are that of patience and Allah-consciousness.

Thus, ihsan is a very comprehensive term that encompasses all types of good behaviour and concern for other fellow human beings. It really means that a benevolent person is the one who uses his or her wealth and capabilities for the good and welfare of others in the society he or she lives and beyond. The best explanation of ihsan was given by the Prophet (pbuh) in a very important hadith: Once Archangel Gabriel (pbuh) came in human form to the Prophet (pbuh) in the presence of some of his Companions. Gabriel asked the Prophet (pbuh) several questions about the tenets of Islam. One of his questions to the Prophet (pbuh) was: “Tell me about al-ihsan.” The Prophet (pbuh) answered: “It is that you worship Allah as if you see Him, and while you see Him not yet truly He sees you.” (Sahih Bukhari & Muslim)

Interesting thing in the above hadith, the Prophet (pbuh) did not give a dictionary-type meaning of ihsan. Instead, he explained the real motivation behind the performance of one’s duty. One should always be conscious that Allah is watching over all one’s action, speech and thoughts. One’s real motive or intention should be to attain Allah’s pleasure and avoid His disapproval. This is what brings purity of the heart and ensures that a person is concerned with the quality of his or her deeds and not mere performance of his obligations. Ihsan is not confined to acts of worshipping only but it requires that in everything we do, should be done to the best of our abilities. Attaining the status of ihsan requires excellence in the performance of all our deeds.

To acquire this status of ihsan, a person should always exhibit his or her humility, helplessness and utter dependence to Allah, and Allah’s approval and pleasure should always be in his or her consciousness. One should try to control one’s carnal self and should not make this world as the aim in life, but rather should consider it as a means of achieving the higher status of ihsan. The blessed month of Ramadhan gives us opportunity to reflect and contemplate Allah’s qualities and attributes: His Bounties, His Mercy, His Wisdom, and His Creation. Remember, “And He is with you wherever you are.” (Qur’an 57:4) “And We are nearer to him (mankind) than his jugular vein.” (Qur’an 50:16) “Indeed Allah has power over all things.” (Qur’an 2:20)

Let us pray to Allah in His Infinite Mercy the He gives us ability to make sincere efforts to follow the path of ihsan and attain this coveted status among muhsinin and thereby achieve His pleasure.

 

Reference:

https://www.ahlulistiqamah.co.uk/index.php/en/59-ihsan-beautifying-one-s-character

A Discovery Journey to Faith

““A DISCOVERY JOURNEY TO FAITH” is a thoughtful work that bridges the gap between faith and skepticism by delving into complex themes such as belief, denial, and doubt, focusing on Islamic theology, philosophy, and Qur’anic discourse. The book sheds new light on problems such as the rationality of faith, the compatibility of science and religion, and how dubious yet interested minds might delve into the profound levels of metaphysical reality. The book invites believers, non-believers, and skeptics alike to expand their knowledge of faith by embracing theological, philosophical, and scientific ideas.” By: Hafidh Saif AL-Rawahy

 

Please click on the image to read the book. 

Additionally, you may find it helpful to watch the following video, in which the author presents his book.

The Mercy of Allah (God)

God Almighty is full of love and kindness to His creation. All blessings and goodness in this world and the next are clear proofs of His Mercy. Indeed, Islam teaches that God is more merciful toward us than our own mothers. How can it be otherwise, when some of God’s names and attributes include:

• The Acceptor of Repentance;
• The Compassionate;
• The Loving;
• The Forbearing One;
• The Most Gracious;
• The Most Merciful;
• The Source of Goodness;
• The Most Generous;
• The Bestower

These names all indicate that God is characterised by mercy, goodness and generosity. They testify to the vastness and perfection of His Mercy, which He blesses all of His creation. This same creation is addressed by God, when He says, “O son of Adam, were you to come to Me with sins nearly as great as the earth and were you then to face Me, ascribing no partner to Me, I would bring you forgiveness nearly as great as the earth.”

Examples Of Allah’s Mercy & Blessings

“Then which of the Blessings of your Lord will you deny?” Qur’an 55:13

Throughout life, people continually receive Allah’s blessings, be it good health, sight, hearing, nourishment, clean air, children, wealth and countless others. Some use their God-given gifts of intelligence and reasoning to acknowledge these blessings, grasp the purpose of their existence, and thereby submit themselves to Allah. Others, however, do not appreciate the Mercy of Allah toward their own selves, even though He feeds and sustains them despite their disobedience toward Him. They are given mobility, enjoyment, freedom of thought and action, despite their outright denial of Him. Their very existence would not be, were it not for the Mercy of Allah.

Ultimately, everyone has the free will to acknowledge their blessings, use them in a manner ordained by Allah (the Lord of mankind) and worship Him alone. Below, we have outlined a glimpse of such blessings, because “... if you were to try and count the favours of Allah, you could not enumerate them. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” Qur’an 16:18

Guidance Through Divine Scriptures & Prophets

“It is He Who has sent down the Book (the Qur’an) to you (Muhammad) with truth, confirming what came before it. And He sent down the Taurah and the Injeel (the original revelations revealed to Prophets Moses and Jesus respectively).” Qur’an 3:3

From the beginning of creation, man was not left to face the struggles of life alone. Due to God’s Mercy, man received revelation through Prophets, who conveyed and taught it to their people to guide and protect them. The most perfect and merciful of revelations was the Qur’an and the last of the prophets was Muhammad (peace be upon him).

The Qur’an – the final revelation – superseded and abrogated previous revelations, and is the ultimate mercy and guidance for mankind. Just as God sent Messengers in the past, He also sent mankind a living, perfect and practical example of how the Qur’an’s teachings of mercy and justice should be practically applied in our daily lives. This example was Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) - a mercy to mankind.

“And We (God) have not sent you (Muhammad) except as a mercy for mankind.” Qur’an 21:107

Following are just some of the Prophet’s sayings which are indicative of his mercy, kindness, tolerance and beautiful teachings:

• “Kindness is not found in anything except that it adds to its beauty, and is not withdrawn from anything except that it makes it deficient.”
• “The most perfect of believers in belief is the best of them in character.”
• “He is not a perfect Muslim who eats his fill while his neighbour goes hungry.”
• “Allah will not show mercy to him who does not show mercy to others.”

How desperately do we, as a society, and in these times, need such beautiful advice?

Mercy Towards The Creation

The creation of human beings and all their faculties is a great mercy in itself. The fact that we can get out of bed, work, eat, play and sleep should make us grateful.

“And out of His Mercy He made for you the night and the day that you may rest therein and [by day] seek from His Bounty and [that] perhaps you will be grateful.” Qur’an 28:73

A spouse is one of the greatest of mercies, a means to tranquillity and affection.

“And of His signs is that He created for you, from yourselves, mates that you may find tranquility in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed in that are signs for a people who give thought.” Qur’an 30:21

Another mercy is the fact that He created us sinless and will not hold us to account until the age of maturity and decision making. This is in stark contrast to the “Original Sin” concept in Christianity.

Forgiveness of sins is another example of Allah’s Mercy, as Allah knows we are imperfect and commit mistakes. The fact that believers commit sins does not mean that we should lose hope of Allah’s Mercy or that we have exhausted Allah’s Forgiveness.

“O My servants who have transgressed against their souls! Do not despair of the Mercy of God: for God forgives all sins: for He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” Qur’an 39:53

Even animals are not exempt from Allah’s Mercy. They have faculties of hearing and sight, are provided with sustenance and offspring, and are granted many other blessings. Allah’s Mercy envelops them to the point that because of one single portion of Allah’s Mercy sent to earth, “...His creatures are merciful to each other, so that even the mare lifts up its hoof away from its baby animal, lest it should trample on it.” The Merciful Creator ensures that every creation is looked after - from the fish in the depths of the ocean, to the insects in the earth, and the birds in the skies – all are sustained by Him.

How To Increase Allah’s Mercy Upon Us

“Indeed, the mercy of Allah is near to the doers of good.” Qur’an 7:56

Due to God’s Mercy, He has promised to forgive and pardon whosoever follows the appropriate means as mentioned in the following verse:

“And surely, I am indeed forgiving to him who repents, believes (in My Oneness, and associates none in worship with Me) and does righteous good deeds, and then remains constant in doing them.” Qur’an 20:82

Part and parcel of having the correct belief is believing and obeying the final Messenger, Muhammad (peace be upon him).

In short, the people who receive more of Allah’s Mercy are those who have acknowledged His blessings and favours; used them in a way which pleases God; spent their God-given wealth in charity and to look after the needy; employed their hands to care for orphans; utilised their gift of speech to speak good; and performed other honourable acts ordained by God.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Allah will show mercy to those who show mercy to people. Show mercy to those who are on earth - the One Who is in Heaven will show mercy to you.”

Below, are some ways to attain God’s Mercy.

“Obey Allah and the Messenger that you may obtain mercy.” Qur’an 3:132

By following the teachings of mercy and justice found in the Qur’an: “And this is a blessed Book We have revealed; therefore follow it and protect yourself (against evil), that mercy may be shown to you.” Qur’an 6:155

“Keep up prayer and pay the compulsory charity (to the needy) and obey the Messenger, so that mercy may be shown to you.” Qur’an 24:56

Sincerely asking for Mercy from God. “Our Lord! Make not our hearts to deviate after you have guided us aright, and grant us mercy from Yourself; surely You are The Bestower.” Qur’an 3:8

Mercy & Accountability

Alongside Allah’s attribute of Mercy is His attribute of Justice. Allah is the Most-Merciful,

“Verily, for the Righteous, are Gardens of Delight, in the Presence of their Lord. Shall We then treat the People of Faith like those who do not believe? What is the matter with you? How do you judge?” Qur’an 68:34-36

however, He is also Swift in Reckoning. One cannot try to deceive Allah and take advantage of His Mercy by constantly committing the same sins without sincere repentance or resolving never to go back to the sin again.

“And of no effect is the repentance of those who continue to do evil deeds until death faces one of them and he says: ‘Now I repent;’ nor of those who die while they are disbelievers.” Qur’an 4:18

Muslims are encouraged to have hope of reward for good deeds, while being concerned about sins they may perform. When they commit sins, they repent sincerely, and are hopeful of being forgiven. And finally, they feel content with the words of their Creator, and keep it close to their heart:

“Surely Allah is Most Gentle, Ever Compassionate to people.” Qur’an 22:65

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Tazkiyah: Spiritual Self-Development and Self-Improvemen

Allah did confer a great favour on the Believers when He sent among them a Messenger from among themselves, rehearsing unto them the Signs of Allah, purifying them. And instructing them in Scripture and Wisdom, while before that, they had been in manifest error. (Quran 3:164)

It is the human nature to desire improvement, to make progress, to aim at achieving goals and succeeding in life. Even other people around us, family and friends, wish us to excel, to win, and to succeed in all our endeavours.

Today, those who are involved in organisations and business management, understand very well the emphasis placed on self-development and self-improvement in order to increase the performance of individuals and teams that make up those organisations — organisations are only as good as their human capital.

In the same way, Islam aims to transform human society to the better, but it can only achieve its objectives with ardent contribution of the valuable and dependable members of the society. Human beings are much diversified; people are unique not only in terms of their physical details, but also in terms of their psychology, behaviour patterns, attitudes and worldview. It is not possible to shape all humans into a single identity.

In fact, there is no need to destroy the human richness and diversity that the Creator has intended to be preserved. What Islam requires is that human beings are trained to grow such that they behave in a predictable way within certain limits. Thus, if they are asked to assemble for prayers at a certain time, the majority of them will turn up. If they are asked to give part of their wealth to the poor and the needy, the majority will respond generously. In Quranic terminology, the word used for this training is tazkiyah. In organisational and management language, it is "self-development" and "self-improvement."

Tazkiyah encompasses two parts: to cleanse/purify and to develop/improve oneself.

In Tazkiyah our focus is spiritual self-development and self-improvement, but it could also be physical as well as human beings need development and improvement in both.

The aspects of cleanse/purify and develop/improve are complementary to each other since whatever is clean and pure will certainly grow and prosper according to its potentialities.

The Quran tells us: Prosperous is he who has cleansed himself. (Quran 87:14) In another place, the Qur'an tells us: Truly he succeeds that purifies it; and he fails that corrupts it. (Quran 91:9–10) The process of tazkiyah or spiritual self-development and self-improvement cannot be imposed on us. It has to be the personal choice and responsibility. Our teachers and institutions in society can facilitate our desire to grow, but the load is on the individual. This brings us to the first requirement for tazkiyah which is our commitment to cleanse and purify ourselves, and with determination to remain steadfast.

The second requirement for tazkiyah is sincerity in our efforts. Like any deed in Islam, purification of intention is important and necessary in the process of tazkiyah, because it is through God's grace and God's aid that we can achieve our goals. Allah says in the Quran, And whosoever desires the Hereafter and strives after it with the effort necessary, being a believer, they are the ones whose striving is acceptable to Allah. (Quran 17:19)

With any programme of action there needs to be a model to facilitate its implementation. Allah has provided us with a perfect model in the Quran, You have indeed in the Messenger of Allah a beautiful pattern (of conduct) for any one whose hope is in Allah and the Final Day, and who engages much in the praise of Allah. (Quran 33:21) Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is the perfect example for us to follow. He left behind a rich human legacy and to follow him is to set upon oneself a life-long journey of tazkiyah. He was an orphan and a father; a husband and a widower; a shepherd and a trader; a commander and spiritualist; a ruler of his people and among the poorest of them; a father who suffered the heartbreak of burying his children and a grandfather who relished the delightful time with his grandchildren. He exemplified truthfulness, justice, forgiveness, compassion, tolerance, restraint, perseverance, thankfulness, gratitude, cleanliness, moderation, modesty and the many etiquettes of goodness.

Thus, the comprehensive study of the life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and his Sunnah teach us tazkiyah. For example, one of the most important aspects of the Prophet's life was his moderation and well-balanced conduct. He stopped his companions from praying all night or fasting continuously or living the life of celibacy.

Brotherhood and community life are essential for achieving self-purification. The evidence we can present to you is that all acts of compulsory worship in Islam are communal whether it is prayers or fasting or pilgrimage. It is the strong bond of brotherhood and sisterhood that sustains the seed of faith and it is also this strong bond that reinforces human potentiality—tazkiyah. The Quran has put it beautifully, You bind yourself with those who call upon Allah morning and evening. (Quran 18:28) Modern psychology confirms the peer influence as a powerful agent in human behaviour, and group life is the most powerful force to stimulate and inspire people.

Finally, it is natural that the way we find beneficial for our own self-development and self-improvement should lead us to invite others to the same path. This will increase our own commitment, stimulates our faith, and enhance our steadfastness. With the support of a community of brothers and sisters, each person reinforces the other, the whole of life becomes integrated and this makes it easy for us to traverse the path of truth and righteousness. The Qur'an tells us: Who is better in speech than the one who invites (people) to Allah, works righteousness and say, "I am among those who surrender to Allah." (Quran 41:33)

By: Hafidh bin Saif Al-Rawahy

hafidh.alrawahy@gmail.com

The Spiritual Benefit

“Spiritual benefit, which is the ultimate goal of fasting, is it gets you to the best level of spirituality throughout the year, because when your body is not occupied in the worldly affairs and the worldly lusts like eating, drinking and sexual intercourse, then your mind is so focused only on one thing, which is spirituality. So, I think the highest peak of spirituality a Muslim gets is during the month of Ramadan.” By: Hatim Al Abdissalaam

Women's Right in Islam

Women in Islam are thought to be subjugated, degraded, oppressed - but are they really? Are millions of Muslims simply that oppressive or are these misconceptions fabricated by a biased media?

“And for women are rights over men, similar to those of men over women.” Qur’an 2:228

Over fourteen hundred years ago, Islam gave women rights that women in the West have only recently began to enjoy. In the 1930’s, Annie Besant observed, “It is only in the last twenty years that Christian England has recognised the right of woman to property, while Islam has allowed this right from all times. It is a slander to say that Islam preaches that women have no souls.” (The Life and Teachings of Mohammed, 1932).

Men and women all descended from a single person - the Prophet Adam (peace be upon him). Islam does not accept for either of them anything but justice and kind treatment.

 

Equal Reward & Equal Accountability

Men and women worship Allah in the same way, meaning they worship the same God (Allah), perform the same acts of worship, follow the same scripture, and hold the same beliefs. Allah (the Arabic word for the One true God of all creation), judges all human beings fairly and equitably. Allah emphasises the just treatment and reward due to both men and women in many verses of the Qur’an:

“Allah has promised to the believers, men and women, gardens under which rivers flow, to dwell therein, and beautiful mansions in gardens of everlasting bliss.” Qur’an 9:72

“Never will I allow the loss of the work of any worker amongst you, male or female; you are of one another.” Qur’an 3:195

These verses show that reward is dependent upon one’s actions and not one’s gender. Gender does not play any part in how a person is rewarded and judged.

If we compare Islam to other religions, we see that it offers justice between the sexes. For example, Islam dismisses the idea that Eve is more to blame than Adam for eating from the forbidden tree. According to Islam, Adam and Eve both sinned, they both repented and God forgave them both.

 

Equal Right to Knowledge

Both men and women are equally encouraged to seek knowledge. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Education is compulsory for every Muslim.”

Also, great female Muslim Scholars existed at and around the time of the Prophet (peace be upon him). Some were from his family and others were his companions or their daughters. Prominent amongst them was Aisha, the wife of the Prophet (peace be upon him) through whom a quarter of the Islamic law has been transmitted.

Other females were great scholars of jurisprudence and had famous male scholars as their students.

 

Equal Right to Choose a Spouse

Islam has honoured women by giving them the right to choose a spouse and keep their original family name once married. Additionally, many have the impression that parents force their daughters into marriage. This is a cultural practice, and has no basis in Islam. In fact, it is prohibited.

At the time of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), a woman came to him and said, “My father has married me to my cousin to raise his social standing and I was forced into it.” The Prophet sent for the girl’s father and then in his presence gave the girl the option of remaining married or nullifying the marriage. She responded, “O Messenger of Allah, I have accepted what my father did, but I wanted to show other women (that they could not be forced into a marriage).”

 

Equal yet Different

While men and women have equal rights as a general principle, the specific rights and responsibilities granted to them are not identical. Men and women have complementary rights and responsibilities.

Aside from external and internal anatomical differences, scientists know there are many other subtle differences in the way the brains of men and women process language, information and emotion, just to mention a few.

A socio-biology expert, Edward O. Wilson of Harvard University, said that females tend to be higher than males in verbal skills, empathy and social skills, among other things, while men tend to be higher in independence, dominance, spatial and mathematical skills, rank-related aggression, and other characteristics.

It would be foolish to treat both genders the same and to ignore their differences. Islam teaches that men and women have complementary, yet different, roles because it is best suited to their nature. God says:

“And the male is not like the female.” Qur’an 3:36

“Does not the One who created, know? And He is the Most Kind, the All Aware.” Qur’an 67:14

 

The Family Unit

God created men and women to be different, with unique roles, skills and responsibilities. These differences are not viewed as evidences of superiority or inferiority, but of specialisation. In Islam, the family is of central importance. The man is responsible for the financial well being of the family while the woman contributes to the family’s physical, educational and emotional well being. This encourages cooperation rather than competition. By fulfilling their mutual responsibilities, strong families are created and hence strong societies.

Also, emotionally, neither men nor women live a happy life without one another. Allah describes this beautifully by saying:

“They are clothing for you and you are clothing for them.” Qur’an 2:187

Clothing provides comfort, warmth and security as well as making one look good – this is how the relationship between the husband and wife is defined in Islam.

 

Love & Mercy in Spousal Relations

The Prophet (peace be upon him) also encouraged men to treat their spouses in the best way, “The best of you are those who are best (in treatment) to their wives.”

“And among His signs is that He created for you wives amongst yourselves that you may dwell in tranquillity with them; and He has put love and mercy between your (hearts). Surely in this are Signs for people who reflect.” Qur’an 30:21

Aisha (the Prophet’s wife) was once asked how the Prophet’s conduct was in his home. She said, “He was like one of you at home, yet he was most lenient and most generous ... He was ready to give a helping hand to his wives in the ordinary work of the house, [he] sewed his own clothes and mended his own shoes.” In general, he helped in whatever work his wives did.

 

Lofty Positions of Mothers & Daughters

A mother has the greatest influence on a child especially in the earlier years through her affection, care and love. Undoubtedly, the success of a society is due to mothers. Therefore, it is only right for Islam to honour and raise their status.

Allah says in the Qur’an:

“And we have enjoined on man to be dutiful and kind to his Parents, His mother bears him with hardship and she brings him forth with hardship.” Qur’an 46:15

The Prophet (peace be upon him) was once asked, “O Messenger of Allah, who among people is most deserving of my good treatment?” He said, “Your mother.” The man asked twice more, “Then who?” and was given the same response. Only until the fourth time did the Prophet respond, “Then your father.” Reward is not only given to the good and kind treatment towards mothers. In fact, Islam has designated a special reward for raising daughters that is not granted for raising sons.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever Allah has given two daughters and is kind towards them, they will be a reason for him entering Paradise.”

 

Conclusion

Before Islam, women were considered shameful, female children were buried alive, prostitution was rampant, divorce was only in the hands of the husband, inheritance was only for the strong, and oppression was widespread. Islam came and abolished these practices. Even now, in “developed countries”, women are not granted respect, dignity and honour, let alone equal pay for equal work. Islam, however, regards women as precious and valuable, not to be disrespected or disgraced. The mistreatment of women in some Middle-Eastern countries or Muslim families is due to cultural factors that some Muslims wrongly follow, not because of Islam. Why would many women around the world willingly enter Islam if it is an oppressive religion?

We end with the words of our Lord and your Lord, the Creator and Sustainer of all men and women:

“Surely the men who submit and the women who submit, and the believing men and the believing women, and the obedient men and the obedient women, and the truthful men and the truthful women, and the patient men and the patient women, and the humble men and the humble women… Allah has prepared for them forgiveness and a great reward.” Qur’an 33:35

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The Path to Paradise

 

To all Muslim women,...

Dear sister, may Allah bless you: it is worthy to Know that beauty is a blessing from Almighty Allah -the Creator- who creates beauty, and he is beautiful and likes beauty. Therefore, adorning and beautifying yourself with a good intention is considered as worship to Allah the Almighty. Moreover, you will earn the reward because of upright behaviour. Furthermore, you will be admitted in the Paradise and you will enjoy all kind of happiness and beauty as a reward for your obedience to the almighty lord and do righteous deeds.

How could you not deserve Paradise when you are patient and do good deeds, and your motto was in the world (Is there any Reward for Good – other than Good?). You do a great deed when you have been keeping your adornment only for your husband and your fellow females around you, and you do not display your adornment for men in public places including malls or markets.

Also, you maintain your modesty when you avoid wearing makeup, powder, nail polish, and lipstick in schools, universities, hospitals, and in the workplace. And you keep your behaviour well when are not softening your voice in speech or you tempt men with your laughter or smiles.

How could you not get pleasure and enjoyment in the Heaven when you do not put perfume to attract men towards you. Any women with malicious intent let men smell her scent, then she is a sinner. Blessing you dear sister because you do not pluck your eyebrow in order to make it thin, because of your belief that you will be cursed and expelled, if you do that, from the mercy of Allah the Almighty.

How could you will not be admitted in Paradise when you avoid wearing the, short, and glamorous Hijab because you are abiding by the instructions of your Creator (and let them draw their veils over their neck) Sura 24: AL-NOOR.

So you responded to the command of your God and put on a long veil (hijab) which is not a transparent and that also covers the head and the chest completely unlike some girls who wear a small piece of cloth that covers only their head.

Dear sister, how could you not deserve  eternal life in Paradise when you are so  afraid when you heard the saying of the Messenger of Allah (PBUH), “There  are two types of people who will be punished in Hell and whom I have not seen: men having whips like the tails of cows and they will be beating people with them, and, women who will be dressed but appear to be naked, inviting to evil; and they themselves will be inclined to it. Their heads will appear like the humps of the Bactrian camel inclined to one side. They will not enter Jannah and they will not smell its fragrance which is perceptible from such and such a distance.

So, adhere in obedience to God, follow to the Islamic veil (Hijab), and stay away from evildoings such immoral songs and movies. Be careful from falling in the devilish ideas that encourage unlawful relationships with men and any path to commit fornication.

And remember that this life is too short. So be patient and obey your Lord so that you may be happy in this world and the Hereafter. And beware of disobedience to your lord and Creator. Those who determine to disobedience to the almighty Allah will be doomed in the hell severely and painfully.

 

Written by: Abu Mariah

Translated by: Mariah al Mawaliah

 

The Relationship Between Hajj and the Hereafter

Here is a Friday Khutbah delivered by Sheikh Hatim Aal Abdissalam. It is about the relationship between Hajj and the Hereafter. This Khutbah is so beneficial for those who have been chosen by Allah to take the amazing Journey of Hajj, and are preparing themselves for this journey.

Hajj is one of the Pillars of Islam and performing it is prescribed on us once in a lifetime.

The Journey of Hajj is not like any other journey. It is a journey that reminds us of the Hereafter, and believing in the Hereafter is one of the Pillars of Faith.

Masterpieces of the Superiority of ISLAM

Masterpieces of the Superiority of ISLAM

Author: Zakaria Bin Thani AI Hasni

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious and the Most Merciful

To you the truth seeker..

To you the seeker of clarity of soul and body…

To you this statement is intended to guide your soul that searches for truth….

The need for religion is the nature of each man. Worship is an expression made by every person who has a mind. The sound nature and the sound appearance are the guidance of man towards happiness of heart, mind and body in this present life and the life after death. It organizes his life affairs with himself, his family and his society. Islam has guaranteed not only this to man but also it doesn’t neglect any aspect of life whether the natural, organizational or scientific aspects or any other aspects. That is because this is the religion that Allah accepted to his worshipers and sent his messengers to promise and warn the people, and concludes this religion with the mission of His messenger Mohammed Peace Be Upon Him (PBUH) as Allah says in The Holy Quran “If anyone desires a religion other than Islam (submission to Allah), never will it be accepted of him” therefore we call upon you, the reader to pay attention to understand Islam, realize some of its secrets and Sharia in order to see that it is truly the path towards happiness and success. Amongst these great guidelines:

1-  Islam and the ultimate worshiping: that is apparent because the Muslim worshiper is directly connected with his creator (Allah) without an intermediate or a partner between them. Allah hears and sees everything. As long as Allah is characterized by the perfect qualities, no need to resort to a partner otherwise it is considered polytheism. Worship is for Allah, the worshiper doesn’t like to reveal his own secrets but to Allah, because Allah is capable to fulfill his needs. it is said (complaint to anybody other than Allah is ignominy) hence the worshiper is usually linked to Allah in everything, in his prayer, fasting, supplication, trade and spending on his family even in the very small deed that Allah considers it big, such as the removal of harm from the road. Mohammed Peace Be Upon Him said: (removal of harm from the road is a charity). Allah has guaranteed the Muslim’s rights and promised him rewards tor whatever deed he carries out. Allah said “Then shall anyone who has done an atom’s weight of good, see it!”. Therefore, Islam was the religion of the absolute and sincere worshiping, a religion that doesn’t deny the rights or duties of any body, it is the religion that makes Muslim with Allah, for Allah and by Allah.

 

2-  Islam and the moderation (balance) principle: moderation in Islam is one of its distinguished aspects compared to other religions. Allah said: “Thus have We made of you an Ummat justly balanced”. There is no exaggeration in Islam, no leniency, no excessiveness and no wasting, everything has a known amount based on the abilities and interests of the people and the reflection of the same on other people. The afterworld - for example- is the home of immortality whether in happiness or misery. ln order to win in the afterworld, Muslims work hard. But that doesn’t mean that we abandon or deny the present life. The present life is an important step that takes us to the afterworld. Allah said “But seek, with the (wealth) which Allah has bestowed on thee, the Home of the Hereafter, nor forget thy portion in this World”. This verse included the courage to work for the afterworld while it also encourages man not to forget the present life. It was commonly said that “Islam has no monasticism”. The Hadith of the Prophet Peace Be Upon Him (PBUH) is a clear evidence in drawing the moderate landmarks when three persons came to him, the first said he prays and doesn’t sleep. The other said, he doesn’t marry. And the third said he fasts forever. The messenger (PBUH) answered them: “for me, I fast and break my fast, I pray and sleep and I marry. Those who abandon my Sunna (tradition) are not a part of me”. This is Islam and this is the immortal moderation (balance).

 

3-  Islam and the facilitation principle: this principle is one of the wonderful aspects of Islam that affects all Muslims. Thanks to Allah for the facilitation blessing and the non-trouble in worship. This principle is derived from Quran in several texts: “So fear Allah as much as ye can” and “Allah puts no burden on any person beyond what He has given him”. The messenger (PBUH) also said “this religion is easiness ….”. From this point the facilitation were given to Muslims in several spirituals such as the abridgment of the traveler’s prayer, permissibility to pray two prayers together, the permission given to the patient to pray in any possible position, and the permissibility to break the fast during travel or during illness, even the pilgrimage is not imposed but only for those who are capable physically, financially and ensure that his family is safe. Islam therefore is easy and simple with no trouble. It is the nutrition of the soul and body. It has got a renewal and promotion for resolution. It means to get close to Allah by the easiest possible way.

 

4- Islam and principle of tolerance: Islam was marked by tolerance and the good call for Allah since the early emergence. Allah has been addressing his messenger at the beginning of the message by saying: “And lower thy wing to the Believers who follow thee” in many places in the Holy Quran, Allah urges pardon, forgiveness and good argument even with the non-Muslims, Allah says: “And dispute ye not with the People of the Book, except with means better (than mere disputation), unless it be with those of them who inflict wrong (and injury);”.  Allah and His messenger called upon Muslims to love each other and forbade them from separation and disagreement. Allah said: “And hold fast, all together, by the Rope which Allah (stretches out for you), and be not divided among yourselves”. The Prophet (PBUH) said: the Muslim is the brother of the Muslim, he should not wrong him nor hand him over.....”. Islam warned against enmity, hatred and corruption of hearts, he made the sound heart the only way to reach the paradise in the afterlife.

4-One of the Islamic values is forgiveness. It prohibited anything that pollutes the clearness amongst Muslims such as backbiting, talebearing, offensive nicknaming and insulting and lying, in order to keep the hearts clear and tolerant.

 

5-  Islam and regulation of the dealings: Islam is a religion that is inclusive to life exercises. It didn’t leave anything in life without organization according to the immortal Sharia (Islamic Law), i.e, it gives the money sanctity and made it a right guaranteed for the Muslim and nobody can take other person’s money, nor intervenes in it without permission. For the sake of securing the dealings, Islam has imposed several rules such as the order to write down the debt, lawful mortgage and other regulations. It also prohibited several things that are considered violation, unfair and injustice to the people’s rights such as usury, lying, fraud, aleatory sale and selling things by a person who doesn’t own it. All that ensure that man can invest his money without harm to himself or to others. That is why the Islamic economy proved successful and approved by Allah. This is one of the aspects that differentiate Islam from other religions.

 

6- Islam and the principle of pushing people towards good deeds: that is why the message remained immortal! It remained calling for the good deed and forbidding the evil deeds since emergence of it till the Doomsday. It is a religion that wants the good to all humanity and does not want to see the people lost, disobedient or polytheist. it is the religion of advice and cooperation. For encouraging this great principle, Allah has made salvation in the afterlife restricted to those who call for the good, Allah said “By the Token of Time through the Ages, Verily Man is in loss, Except such as have Faith, and do righteous deeds, and (join together) in the mutual teaching of Truth, and of Patience and Constancy” and many other verses that urge the promotion of virtue and prevention of vice and not to keep silent before falseness. Allah has informed us about the story of the Sabbaths breakers. Allah has destroyed both parties those who committed bad deeds and those who didn’t, because they didn’t forbid the bad deeds; as they saw the false but didn’t forbid it.

Muslim wants the good to all people and he always exploits the conditions to give advice to them in order to get the reward from Allah. The Prophet (PBUH) says: “If Allah by you guides a single man it is better than the whole world”. This leaflet came from the heart of its writer seeking the reward from Allah wishing it might be a cause for guiding many people.

The immortal message of Islam: Allah has wanted that the message of Islam to be immortal to the Doomsday. Islam’s main pillar is the testimony “No God But Allah and Mohammed is The Messenger of Allah” and His book is the Holy Quran. Allah has pledged to keep and preserve this book so it remained immortal, stable, undistorted and unforged. It will remain the guide and the destination of the truth seeker because it is the religion of peace, facilitation, purity and the nutrition for both soul and body..

In any religion and age some may deviate from understanding the secrets of the sound religion, they may exaggerate it, offend it, or neglect its teachings but those people don’t represent the entire Muslims or even a principle of Islam. These deeds only represent the violators. Islam as mentioned has got principles that deprive anybody from offending other people. It is the safe shelter to all those who are lost and confused, so beware not to link the offense of a Muslim to Islam.

The only requirements for those who convert to Islam is to wash and testify “There is No God but Allah, and Mohammed is the Messenger of Allah”. This should be uttered by tongue and applied in the real life. He should adhere to the sound meanings of this testimony including teachings such as prayer, fasting, Zakat and pilgrimage, and other humanity aspects such as sympathy, charity and showing mercy to the needy as well as the requirements of contemplation such as faithful worship to Allah and belief in the message of Mohammed (PBUH) and Holy Quran.

In brief, these are the keys to convert to Islam, Allah said: “The religion before Allah is Islam (submission to His Will)”.

Islam has great secrets that are realized by only the person who goes towards the creator by his pure soul to reach Allah’s great luminous mercies.

Allah is the only guide for everything and controls everything.