What is Deen?

by Muhammad Abdullah

Deen is word we hear often but what does it mean? Our respected Shaykh hafizahullah discussed this concept a few weeks ago in the weekly Friday Majlis. Below is an approximate translation

Deen is to follow the desire of Allah Ta’laa and not the desire of one’s self. Deen is to know what to do in each circumstance. The definition of Deen is to practise whatever Allah Ta’laa wants on each occasion. Deen is not to come into a systematic routine like a robot. Deen is to fulfil the demands of Allah Ta’laa. To enact everything in its proper manner and place is Deen.

(Our respected Shaykh hafizahullah then quoted a saying of the great Mufti Taqi Uthmani hafizahullah):

‘To understand Deen means to understand the framework of Deen and to understand what is required at what time. This is not attained from the study of books. It is acquired only from the company of the Buzrooq/Mashaaikh (the experts of Deen)’.

Men can marry women for 4 reasons:

1. Beauty
2. Wealth
3. Status (lineage)
4. Deen
We should marry someone who we find appealing in many aspects but let’s remember that the Deen is the most important factor, because it is the one that will lead us and our family to Jannah Insha’Allah!

Prophet (SAW)'s Prayers

For any calamity
When any calamity comes, even if pricked by a thorn recite:
إِنَّا لِلَّهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ اللَّهُمَّ أَجِرْنِي فِي مُصِيبَتِي وَاخْلُفْ لِي خَيْرَاً مِنْهَا
"Definitely we are from Allah and to Him is our return. O Allah, grant reward in my calamity and grant in its place a good substitute".

(Muslim)
If there is an infection on the body, wet the Shahaadat finger with saliva from the mouth, place it on the ground and then rub it on the infection while reciting:
بِسْمِ اللَّهِ تُرْبَةُ أَرْضِنَا بَرِيقَةُ بَعْضِنَا لِيَشْفِيَ سَقَمَنَا بِإِذْنِ رَبِّنَا
"In the name of Allah, with the blessings of this soil of our land which I mixed with the saliva so that the ailment is cured by the order of our Lord".

(Bukhari, Muslim)
If there is pain on the body, place the right hand on the pain, recite "Bismillah" thrice and the following dua seven times:
أَعُوذُ بِاللَّهِ وَقُدْرَتِهِ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا أَجِدْ وَأُحَاذِرْ
"I seek refuge in the Being and Power of Allah from the effects of which I am in and from that which I fear".

(Hisnul Hasin from Muslim)

SAFAR

Is the second month of the Islamic calendar
About the month of SAfAR:

This time of the year was considered to be cursed as many catastrophes and calamities took place. However this belief has been proven to be false and totally without foundation (absurd).
This can also be confirmed by the following hadeeth.
Hadhrat Jaabir (R.A.) has said that, "I have heard the Prophet saying, the descending of illness and evil superstition
befalling in the month ofSafar is untrue." (Muslim)

Events Of SAfAR:-

1) The Battle of Abwaa took place on 12th Safar in the year2 A.H.
2) The Battle of Khaibar took place in the year 7 A.

Matrimonies in SAfAR:

Hadhrat Ali (R A ) married Hadhrat Fatima (R.A.), (the daughter of the
Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) in the latter days of Safar 2 A.H.

Deaths in SAfAR:-
Khubaib Ibn Adey(R.A.)was martyred in this month in the year
4A.H. in the Holy city of Makkah.

Zaid Ibn Dathina (RA) was martyred in this month in the year
4A.H. in the Holy city of Makkah.

CONDOLENCES

It is a Muslim’s duty to offer condolences, comfort, and sympathy to the family and the relatives of the deceased. This strengthens the relationships within the Muslim community.

When offering condolences, words should be chosen carefully and said gently to convey sympathy and to encourage the family and the relatives of the deceased to accept Allah’s will and to help them to get back to their normal life.

Condolences may be offered to the family and to the relatives of the deceased before, during or after burial for up to three days, but it may be offered even at later time if someone did not hear about it or he was far away.

It is recommended to leave after offering condolences to give the family time to take care of their other affairs, assistance may be offered for anything the family may need, and one may stay to help.

conversation..

David: Morning.. what a great day..
Muslim: Morning.. so, hows ur Christmas?
David: Great.. will be enjoying very soon...
Muslim: Good..
David: No wish for me?
Muslim: Islam respects the non Muslim, but to greet other religion is not allowed.
David: But why?
Muslim: Seems like we can't stop u to drink liquor, but we can't drink it..
David: But many of Muslim did wish for me..
Muslim: Can you confess our confession of faith? (Shahadah - La illaha illallah Muhammadur Rasullullah)?
David: No!..Cannot!.. It will effect my faith..
Muslim: But why? just a word..:) say it.. :)
David: Now i understand :)]
*clearly states it all..The reason why we can't greet and join them. Allahu Akbar! :)

TABLE MANNERS OF THE PROPHET (SALLALAHO ALAIHI SALAAM)

Some hadiths discuss table manners, proving that the Prophet (saas) was very sensitive on these proprieties. The limited resources of his community did not prevent him from stressing this matter. Some examples of his table manners are:
1) Washing one's hands is sunnah:
Washing hands before and after a meal is very important for our health. The Prophet (saas) encouraged all believers to acquire this habit:
"Washing hands before a meal will eradicate poverty; washing them after a meal will eradicate sins." (at-Tabarani)
"Whoever retires for the night with food on his hands and some harm comes to him because of it has only himself to blame." (Abu Dawud)
"To wash one's hands and mouth before and after a meal is a source of blessings." (Abu Dawud)
2) It is a sunnah to open a meal by saying Bismillah and to end it by saying Alhamdulillah.
"When anyone of you intends to eat, he should say, Bismillah. In case he forgets, he should say Bismillah Awwaluhu wa Akhirahu at the end." (Abu Dawud and al-Tirmidhi)
Aisha (ra) relates that while the Messenger of Allah (saas) and six of the Companions were eating, a bedouin entered and ate all of the food in two bites. The Messenger of Allah (saas) said: "If he had said Bismillah, it should have been sufficient for all." (al-Tirmidhi)
3) The Prophet (saas) advised people to begin a meal with dates, salt, or water.
The Messenger of Allah (saas) never found fault with a meal brought to the table. If food he did not like was served, he would remain silent and simply not eat it.
4) It is a sunnah of the Messenger of Allah (saas) to eat with right hand and to eat from the sides of the dish.
Umar ibn Salmah narrated that "during my childhood, the Prophet (saas) advised me to say Bismillah, eat with the right hand, and from (the part of the dish that was) in front of me." (Sahih Muslim)
"Eat from the sides of it and do not put your hand in the middle, for barakah descends on the middle." (al-Tirmidhi and Abu Dawud)
5) Muslims should sit together during the meal, for eating together is more blissful:
"Sit down to eat together and recite the name of Allah. There will, then, be greater barakah for you in the meal." (Abu Dawud)
6) Food should not be taken too hot:
"There is no barakah in a hot meal, for Allah does not feed us fire. Eat your food after allowing it to cool down." (al-Bayhaqi)
7) Some points need to be considered when drinking:
Holding the glass in the right hand, one should breathe three times in the course of a drink without breathing into the glass. As Prophet Muhammad (saas) said: "The best drink in this world and the Hereafter is water. When you are thirsty, drink it by sips and not gulps, for gulping produces a sickness of the liver." (al-Daylami)
Abdullah ibn Abbas (ra) related that the Messenger of Allah (saas) forbade breathing or blowing air from the mouth into the drinking vessel (Abu Dawud and Ibn Majah).
The Messenger of Allah (saas) breathed three times (outside the vessel) in the course of a drink and said: "It is more thirst-quenching, healthier, and more wholesome" (Sahih Muslim, Book 023, Number 5030).
When distributing something to drink in a crowd, it should be moved to the right and held with the right hand. The Prophet (saas) would always share his drink with those nearby, whenever he was drinking milk or sweet juice. The glass would always be moved to the right.
Anas ibn Malik (ra) reported that to the Messenger of Allah (saas) was given a cup of milk mixed with water. On his right was a desert Arab, and on his left was Abu Bakr (ra). He (the Prophet) drank, then gave it to the desert Arab and said: "(Give it to the one) who is on the right, then again (to one) who is on the right." (Sahih Muslim, Book 023, Number 5032)
The Prophet (saas) loved to eat in the company of many people. As the food was served, he would say: "O Allah, make this food among the provisions, thanks for which is already paid and has become a means to attain the blessings of Paradise." He did not like food that was too hot; he would wait for it to cool down of its own accord and then eat it.
The Prophet (saas) recommended that believers should invite each other to eat together. Islamic scholars have decreed that Muslims, unless they have a valid reason or excuse, must accept an invitation from a fellow believer:
"When any one of you is invited to a feast, he should accept." (Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim, and al-Tirmidhi)
Abu Hurayrah (ra) used to say: "One who does not come to the feast disobeys Allah and His Messenger (saas)." (Sahih al-Bukhari)
"When two people come together to issue an invitation, accept the one belonging to the door that is nearer. But if one of them comes before the other, accept the invitation of the one who comes first." (Sunan Abu Dawud, Book 27, Number 3747)
"He who presents himself for a meal without being invited is a fasiq, and it is unlawful for him to partake of the food." (al-Bayhaqi)
"Verily, there are lofty rooms in Paradise in which their outside can be seen from inside and their inside from the outside. They are for those who use soft speech, feed food [to others], and spend the night in voluntary prayer while people are asleep." (al-Tirmidhi)
"Whoever feeds his brother in Islam the food he desires, his sins will be forgiven. Whoever pleases his brother in Islam pleases Allah." (at-Tabarani)
It is an important aspect of a believer's good manners to treat the person who accepts an invitation with respect.

THE REASON FOR AQEEQAH

It has been narrated in Hadhrat Samurah Ibn Jundub's (R. A.) hadeeth that a child is an endowment in return for an aqeeqah. The Muhadditheen have approached this with numerous explanations.

1. The hadeeth implies that a child will intercede on behalf of his parents. However, if someone, despite being capable, neglects aqeeqah and the child coincidentally dies as a youngster he will not intercede for his parents. The child will be of no advantage just like an object that has been kept safe as a pledge is of no advantage. This statement was made by Imam Ahmad Ibn Hanbal (RA.)

2. Until the aqeeqah isn't offered the child remains an open target to calamities and misfortune and is also deprived from virtue and blessings. After the aqeeqah the child is safeguarded from anything detrimental and anything provoking pain.

3. A child is a blessing from the Almighty Allah. Aqeeqah is performed as a thanksgiving for this blessing. (Zaadul Ma-aad Li-ibnil Qayyim)

4. Until the aqeeqah is not performed the child shall not be safeguarded against calamities but instead will grow up to be disobedient to his parents.

5. When the hair is shaven on the 7th day and aqeeqah is completed, the child is cleansed from all impurities, (Allah knows best).

6. Mulla Ali Qari (R. A.) states, "Whosoever wills his child to be obedient, should perform his child's aqeeqah."

SIGNIFICANT EVENTS IN ASHURA (10TH day of Muharram in Lunar Calendar):

1. It was the day when Prophet Adam, peace be upon him (pbuh) was forgiven by Allah, the Most High;
2. It was the day when the Ark of Propeht Nuh (Noah) (pbuh) landed at Mount Judi;
3. It was the day when Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) (pbuh) was thrown into the fire by his people;
4. It was the day when Prophet Musa (Moses) (pbuh) cross the red sea with Bani (children of) Israel:
5. It was the day when Prophet Yaqub (Jacob) (pbuh) met his son Yusoph (Joseph) after he was betrayed by his brothers;
6. It was the day when the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), Amer Husien and his family, may Allah be pleased with them, were martyred at Karbala, Iraq on thier way to Kufa.

limang uri ang nakakasunog ng IMAN ng tao:

1. Minahal ang HANAPBUHAY at nakalimutan ang SAMBAYANG.
2. Nagmahal ng KAYAMANAN at nakalimot sa KADSAKAT
3. Minahal ang MANSION at nakalimot sa KUBOR
4. Minahal ang PAGBISYO at nakalimot sa KAMATAYAN.
5. Minahal ang DUNYA at nakalimot sa AKHIRAT.

List of holidays for 2012, based on Malacañang's Proclamation No. 295:

SECTION 1.

A. Regular Holidays

New Year’s Day - January 1 (Sunday)

Maundy Thursday - April 5

Good Friday - April 6

Araw ng Kagitingan - April 9 (Monday)

Labor Day - May 1 (Tuesday)

Independence Day - June 12 (Tuesday)

National Heroes Day - August 27 (Last Monday of August)

Bonifacio Day - November 30 (Friday)

Christmas Day - December 25 (Tuesday)

Rizal Day - December 30 (Sunday)



B. Special (Non-Working) Days

Chinese New Year - January 23 (Monday)

Ninoy Aquino Day - August 21 (Tuesday)

All Saints Day - November 1 (Thursday)

Additional special (non-working) day - November 2 (Friday)

Last Day of the Year - December 31 (Monday)



C. Special Holiday (for all schools)

EDSA Revolution Anniversary - February 25 (Saturday)



SECTION 2. The proclamations declaring national holidays for the observance of Eid’l Fitr and Eidul Adha shall hereafter be issued after the approximate dates of the Islamic holidays have been determined in accordance with the Islamic calendar (Hijra) or the lunar calendar, or upon Islamic astronomical calculations, whichever is possible or convenient. To this end, the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) shall inform the Office of the President on which day the holiday shall fall.

November 26, 2011 -Islamic New Year!

Amun Jadeed.. Muharram 1,1433 A.H.
THE Muslim world celebrates on Saturday, November 26, the Islamic New Year called Amun Jadeed or Al-Hijra the first day of the month of Muharram, which is the first month of the lunar Hijrah calendar. It marks the Hijra (or Hegira) in 622 CE when the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) moved from Mecca to Medina, and set up the first Islamic state.

This world is not my home, I'm just passing through. My treasures
are laid up, somewhere beyond the blue.

Islamic Holidays 2012

Some dates may vary slightly as they are determined by the lunar calendar.

Date - Day - Festival

Feb 04, 2012 -Saturday -Milad Un Nabi (birthday Of The Prophet Muhammad)

Jun 16, 2012 -Saturday -Lailat Al Miraj

Jul 04, 2012 -Wednesday -Lailat Al Bara'ah

Jul 20, 2012 -Friday -Ramadan (start)

Aug 14, 2012 -Tuesday -Laylat Al Qadr

Aug 19, 2012 -Sunday -Eid-al-fitr (end Of Ramadan)

Oct 25, 2012 -Thursday -Waqf Al Arafa - Hajj

Oct 26, 2012 -Friday -Eid-al-adha

Nov 15, 2012 -Thursday -Hijra - Islamic New Year

Nov 24, 2012 -Saturday -Day Of Ashura

The names of the 12 months that comprise the Islamic year are:

1. Muharram
2. Safar
3. Rabi’ al-awwal (Rabi’ I)
4. Rabi’ al-thani (Rabi’ II)
5. Jumada al-awwal (Jumada I)
6. Jumada al-thani (Jumada II)
7. Rajab
8. Sha'ban
9. Ramadhan
10. Shawwal
11. Dhul'qaidah
12. Dhul'hajji

The Islamic calendar (or Hijri calendar) is a purely lunar calendar. It contains 12 months that are based on the motion of the moon, and because 12 synodic months is only 12 x 29.53=354.36 days, the Islamic calendar is consistently shorter than a tropical year, and therefore it shifts with respect to the Christian calendar.

The calendar is based on the Qur'an (Sura IX, 36-37) and its proper observance is a sacred duty for Muslims.

The Islamic calendar is the official calendar in countries around the Gulf, especially Saudi Arabia. But other Muslim countries use the Gregorian calendar for civil purposes and only turn to the Islamic calendar for religious purposes.

The Day of 'Ashurah'

Although Muharram is a sanctified month as a whole, yet, the 10th day of Muharram is the most sacred among all its days. The day is named 'Ashurah'. According to the Holy Companion Ibn 'Abbas, Radi-Allahu anhu. The Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, when migrated to Madinah, found that the Jews of Madinah used to fast on the 10th day of Muharram. They said that it was the day on which the Holy Prophet Musa (Moses), alayhis salam, and his followers crossed the Red Sea miraculously and the Pharaoh was drowned in its waters. On hearing this from the Jews, the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, said, "We are more closely rotated to Musa, alayhi salam, than you," and directed the Muslims to fast on the day of 'Ashura'. (Abu Dawood)

It is also reported in a number of authentic traditions that in the beginning, fasting on the day of 'Ashura' was obligatory for the Muslims. It was later that the fasts of Ramadan were made obligatory and the fast on the day of 'Ashura' was made optional. Sayyidina 'Aisha, Radi-Allahu anha, has said:

"When the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, came to Madinah, he fasted on the day of 'Ashura' and directed the people to fast. But when the fasts of Ramadan were made obligatory, the obligation of fasting was confined to Ramadan and the obligatory nature of the fast of 'Ashura' was abandoned. Whoever so desires should fast on it and any other who so likes can avoid fasting on it." (Sunan Abu Dawud)

However, the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, used to fast on the day of 'Ashura' even after the fasting in Ramadan was made obligatory. Abdullah ibn Musa, Radi-Allahu anhu, reports that the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, preferred the fast of 'Ashura' on the fasts of other days and preferred the fasts of Ramadhaan on the fast of 'Ashura'. (Bukhari and Muslim)

In short, it is established through a number of authentic ahadith that fasting on the day of 'Ashura' is Sunnah of the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, and makes one entitled to a great reward.

According to another Hadith, it is more advisable that the fast of 'Ashura' should either be preceded or followed by another fast. It means that one should fast two days: the 9th and 10th of Muharram or the 10th and 11th. The reason of this additional fast as mentioned by the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, is that the Jews used to fast on the day of'Ashura alone, and the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, wanted to distinguish the Muslim way of fasting from that of Jews. Therefore, he advised the Muslims to add another fast to that of 'Ashura'.

Some traditions signify another feature of the day of 'Ashura. According to these traditions, one should be more generous to his family by providing more food to them on this day as compared to other days. These traditions are not very authentic according to the science of Hadith. Yet, some Scholars like Baihaqi and Ibn Hibban have accepted them as reliable.

What is mentioned above is all that is supported through authentic sources about Ashura.


Misconceptions and Baseless Traditions

However, there are some legends and misconceptions with regard to 'Ashura' that have managed to find their way into the minds of the ignorant, but have no support of authentic Islamic sources, some very common of them are these: This is the day on which Adam, alayhi salam, was created. This is the day when Ibrahim, alayhi salam, was born. This is the day when Allah accepted the repentance of Sayyidina Adam, alayhi salam. This is the day when Qiyaamah (doomsday) will take place. Whoever takes bath on the day of 'Ashura' will never get ill.

All these and other similar whims and fancies are totally baseless and the traditions referred to in this respect are not worthy of any credit.

Some people take it as Sunnah to prepare a particular type of meal on the day of 'Ashura'. This practice, too, has no basis in the authentic Islamic sources.

Some other people attribute the sanctity of 'Ashura' to the martyrdom of Sayyidna Husain, Radi-Allahu anhu, during his battle with the Syrian army. No doubt, the martyrdom of Sayyidina Husain, Radi-Allahu anhu, is one of the most tragic episodes of our history. Yet, the sanctity of 'Ashura' cannot be ascribed to this event for the simple reason that the sanctity of 'Ashura' was established during the days of the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, much earlier than the birth of Sayyidna Husain, Radi-Allahu anhu.

On the contrary, it is one of the merits of Sayyidna Husain, Radi-Allahu anhu, that his martyrdom took place on the day of 'Ashura'.

Another misconception about the month of Muharram is that it is an evil or unlucky month, for Sayyidna Husain, Radi-Allahu anhu, was killed in it. It is for this misconception that people avoid holding marriage ceremonies in the month of Muharram. This is again a baseless concept, which is contrary to the express teachings of the Holy Quran and the Sunnah. If the death of an eminent person on a particular day renders that day unlucky for all times to come, one can hardly find a day of the year free from this bad luck because every day is associated with the demise of some eminent person. The Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, have liberated us from such superstitious beliefs.

Lamentations and Mourning

Another wrong practice related to this month is to hold the lamentation and mouming ceremonies in the memory of martyrdom of Sayyidna Husain, Radi-Allahu anhu. As mentioned earlier, the event of Karbala is one of the most tragic events of our history, but the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, has forbidden us from holding the mourning ceremonies on the death of any person. The people of jahiliyyah (ignorance) used to mourn over their deceased through loud lamentations, by tearing their clothes and by beating their cheeks and chests. The Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, stopped the Muslims from doing all this and directed them to observe patience by saying "Innaa lillaahi wa innaa ilayhi raaji'oon". A number of authentic Ahaadith are available on the subject. To quote only one of them:

"He is not from our group who slaps his checks, tears his clothes and cries in the manner of the people of jahiliyyah." (Sahih Bukhari)

All the authentic jurists are unanimous on the point that the mourning of this type is impermissible. Even Sayyidna Husain, Radi-Allahu anhu, shortly before his demise, had advised his beloved sister Sayyidah Zainab, Radi-Allahu anha, at not to mourn over his death in this manner. He said, "My dear sister! I swear upon you that in case I die you shall not tear your clothes, nor scratch your face, nor curse anyone for me or pray for your death." (Al-Kamil, ibn al-Athir vol. 4 pg. 24)

It is evident from this advice of Sayyidna Husain, Radi-Allahu anhu, that this type of mourning is condemned even by the blessed person for the memory of whom these mourning ceremonies are held. Every Muslim should avoid this practice and abide by the teachings of the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, and his beloved grand child Sayyidna Husain, Radi-Allahu anhu.

Muharram

Muharram is the month with which the Muslims begin their lunar Hijrah Calendar. It is one of the four sanctified months about which the Holy Quran says, "The number of the months according to Allah is twelve (mentioned) in the Book of Allah on the day He created heavens and the earth. Among these (twelve months) there are four sanctified."

These four months, according to the authentic traditions, are Dhul-Qa'dah, Dhul-Hijjah, Muharram and Rajab. All the commentators of the Holy Quran are unanimous on this point, because the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, in his sermon on the occasion of his last Hajj, declared: "One year consists of twelve months, of which four are sanctified months, three of them are in sequence; Dhul-Qa'dah, Dhul-Hijjah, Muharram, and the fourth is Rajab."

The specific mention of these four months does not mean that any other month has no sanctity, because the month of Ramadan is admittedly the most sanctified month in the year. But these four months were specifically termed as sanctified months for the simple reason that their sanctity was accepted even by the pagans of Makkah.

In fact, every month, out of the twelve, is originally equal to the other, and there is no inherent sanctity that may be attributed to one of them in comparison to the other months. When Allah Almighty chooses a particular time for His special blessings, the same acquires sanctity out of His grace.

Thus, the sanctity of these four months was recognized right from the days of Sayyidina Ibrahim, alayhi salam. Since the Pagans of Makkah attributed themselves to Sayyidina Ibrahim, alayhi salam, they observed the sanctity of these four months and despite their frequent tribal battles, they held it unlawful to fight in these months.

In the Shariah of our Noble Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, the sanctity of these months was upheld and the Holy Quran referred to them as the "sanctified months".

Muharram has certain other characteristics special to it, which are specified below.

Fasting During the Month

The Noble Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, has said: 'The best fasts after the fasts of Ramadan are those of the month of Muharram."

Although the fasts of the month of Muharram are not obligatory, yet one who fasts in these days out of his own will is entitled to a great reward by Allah Almighty. The Hadith cited above signifies that the fasts of the month of Muharram are most rewardable ones among the Nafl or voluntary fasts.

The Hadith does not mean that the award promised for fasts of Muharram can be achieved only by fasting for the whole month. On the contrary, each fast during this month has merit. Therefore, one should avail of this opportunity as much as he can.

✦ REVIVE A SUNNAH ⇨ "WHEN GOING TO SLEEP" ✦

These following Sunnah can be fulfilled everytime we sleep, during the day and night. [Please Share !!!]

1 - Dust the bed: "... When one of you goes to bed, let him dust the bed because he does not know what comes into it before or after him." [Bukhari: 6320; Muslim: 2714]

2- Sleeping on Wudoo` and lie on right side.

The Prophet, sallAllahu 'alayhi wa salam told al-Baraa` bin 'Aazib, radiallahu 'anh, If you go to your bed, then do your wudoo` (ablution) as you would do it for prayer, then lie on your right side" [Agreed upon (Bukhari: 6311.Muslim: 2710)]

3 - Place the right hand under the right cheek.

"When the Prophet (sallAllahu alaih wasallam) retired to bed at night, he (sallalahu alaih wasallam) would put his hand under his (right) cheek and then say, "Allahumma bismika amutu wa ahya (O Allah, by Your Name I die and I live)" and when He (sallalahu alaih wasallam) got up (from sleep), he (saws) would say, "Al-Hamdu lil-lahi al-ladhi ahyana ba`da ma amatana, wa ilaihi an-nushur (Praise be to Allah Who gave us life after death, and to Him is the return." [Bukhari: 6314; Muslim: 5045]

4 - Recite Soorat Al-Kaafirun (109:1-6)

From its benefit: It frees the person from Shirk. [Aboo Dawood: 5055; At-Tirmidhee: 3403; Ahmad: 23807; Al-Hakeem: 2121]

5 - Reading Soorat al-Ikhlaas, al-Falaq and an-Naas before sleeping.

From 'Aishah radiallahu 'anha, the Messenger, sallAllahu 'alayhi wa salam used to recite "Qul huwallahu ahad", "Qul a'oothu birrabilfalaq" and "Qul a'oothu birrabinnaas" every night when he went to sleep, then wiped his face and whatever he was able from his body, beginning with his head and face, and what faces him from his body, three times". [al-Bukhaari: 5017]

6 - Recite 2 last ayat of Soorat Al-Baqarah (2:285-286)

"Whoever read them (i.e. the last two verses) at night they will be kafataa for him (sufficient for him regarding the night prayer, or/and also sufficient in protection from every evil, misfortune, and harm. [Bukhari: 5009]

7 - Recite ayah al-Kursee (Soorat Al-Baqarah 2: 255)

Benefit: For whoever reads it, there would remain a protection over him from Allaah and Shaytaan would not come close to him. [Bukhari: 5010]

8 - Doing takbeer and tasbeeh when going to sleep

'Ali, radiyAllahu 'anh narrates that the Messenger of Allah, sallAllahu 'alayhi wa salam said when Faatimah asked him for a servant, "Shall I not lead you to that which is better for you than a servant? If you go to your mattresses, or rest to sleep, then say Allahu Akbar thirty-four times, and say subhaan Allah thirty-three times, and say alhamdulilah thirty-three times, for they are better for you than having a servant" [Agreed upon (Bukhari & Muslim): 6318 & 6915]

9 - Supplicating when awoken from sleep

'Ubaadah bin as-Saamit, radiallahu 'anh narrates that the Prophet, sallallahu 'alayhi wa salam said: "Anyone awoken in the night and says: Laa ilaha illa Allah, wahdatu laa shareeka lah, lahul-mulku walahul hamd, wa huwa 'ala kulli shay`in qadeer, alhamdulilah was-subhaan Allah, wallahu akbar, wa laa hawla wa laa quwata illa billah , then said, Allahumma aghfirli or invoked Allah, he will be answered, and if he does ablution and prays, his prayer will be accepted" [al-Bukhaari: 1154]

10 - Supplicating once awake with the following supplication

Alhamdulilah alathee ahyaanaa ba'da maa amatana, wa ilayhin-nushoor (Praise be to Allah Who granted us life after death, and to Him we will be ressurected) [al-Bukhaari, 6312, from Huthayfah bin al-Yamaan, radiallahu 'anhu]

Hate the Sin, not the Sinner.

Our Prophet (saw) of course hated Shirk, but yet he never hated Abu Talib (his uncle), even though he was a non-muslim i.e. not following onto the footsteps of One True God, Allah.

We should always believe that one day inshaAllah one day the non-muslims you are dealing with will become Muslims because of Allah's Supreme Grace.

Pagkaing MAGUINDANAON..

HEALTHY TEA

MANGO TEA BREEZE

Ingredients:
1 lipton tea bag
40ml hot water
1 cup cold water
3tbs mango cubes
4tsp sugar
4pcs ice cubes

Directions:
First dunk the tea bag on a hot water.
Then, in a covered cup put the tea, cold water, mango cubes, sugar and ice.
Shake it well and serve.

This will surely tickle your taste buds. Have fun!

**************************************************



BLACK TEA GULAMAN

Ingredients:
1 Lipton Yellow Label Tea
80ml hot water
80ml cold water
¼ vanilla syrup
3 teaspoon of honey
½ cup of crushed ice
¼ cup of black gulaman or sago

Preparation:
Dunk the Lipton yellow label tea in hot water for a minute.
Remove the tea bag and put the cold water on it.
Also put the Vanilla syrup and honey.
Put it on a shaker then add the crushed ice then shake it.
Put it on a glass then add the sago/black gulaman.
Serve it while cold.

**************************************************


Orange-flavored SOYA milk tea (warm or cold)

Ingredients:
1 teabag of Lipton Yellow Label tea
½ cup of warm water (it depends on the glass size)
½ cup of plain-flavoured Soya milk (any brand)
1/8 Squeezed orange or 4 teaspoons of orange juice

Directions:
1) Put the Lipton Yellow Label tea bag into the warm water. Wait up to 3-5 minutes
2) Pour ½ cup of soya milk
3) Pour squeezed orange or orange juice into the glass
4) Put at least 2-3 teaspoons of sugar then stir it well.
5) Put some 2-3 ice cubes, if you want it cold. Have a HEALTEA DAY!

WINNING NOTIFICATION NOT JUNK MAIL

WINNING NOTIFICATION

E. A . A . S. Lottery Headquarters ,
Customer Service
580 N. Tenth Street
Sacramento , CA85914
Arena Complex Km 18 Route de Rufisque
I . P . P . Award Department
Amsterdam Netherlands .



Sir / Madam ,

YOU HAVE WON US$250,000,00 DOLLARS !

Payment No. M30911

We happily announce to you the draw of the Euro Afro Asian Sweepstakes Lottery International programs held in Amsterdam Holland .Your e-mail address attached to Winning Ticket Number 577 7443465 L77 which subsequently won you the lottery in the 3rd category . You are therefore been approved to claim a total sum of US$250,000,00 ( Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand United States Dollar ) in cheque . This is from a total cash prize of US$2,500,000,00 Dollars , shared amongst the first Ten ( 10 ) lucky winners in this category . Please note that your lucky winning number falls within our Asian regional coupon . In view of this , your US$250,000,00 ( Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand United States Dollars ) cheque will be released to you by our fiduciary agent in Jakarta Indonesia Barrister Ahmed Musa Faisal . Our fiduciary agent will immediately commence on the process to facilitate the release of your cheque as soon as you contact him , All participants were selected randomly from World Wide sites , email addresses and guest books through computer draw system and extracted from over 100,000 individuals and companies .This promotion takes place annually and is sponsored by eminent personalities , Bill Gates of Microsoft Inc. and his associated with the support of some European co-operate companies and organizations , the aim is to promote the use of internet and computer world wide .

For security reasons , you are advised to keep your winning information confidential till your claims is and your cheque of US$250,000,00 released to you by our appointed fiduciary agent . This is part of our precautionary measure to avoid double claiming and unwarranted abuse of this program by some unscrupulous elements . PLEASE BE WARNED .

To file your claim , please contact our fiduciary agent in Jakarta Indonesia BARRISTER AHMED MUSA FAISAL through his below email address :
Email : ahmedmusafaisal@yahoo.com or ahmed_musafaisal@yahoo.com
Telephone : +6221 -9602-1259
Mobile : +6285-6855-3369

with your following contact information for immediate release of your cheque :

1. Your Full Name
2. Your Contact Address
3. Your Age and Sex
4. Your Winning Ticket Number
5. Your Private Telephone / Fax Number
6. Your Occupation
7. Your Country of Origin
8. Scan Copy of Your National Identification Card ( NIC ) or International Passport or Driving License .

DO NOT REPLY TO THIS EMAIL , PLEASE CONTACT OUR FIDUCIARY AGENT DIRECTLY .
ahmedmusafaisal@yahoo.com or ahmed_musafaisal@yahoo.com

Sincerely ,

Mrs. Patricia Martin
EURO AFRO ASIAN ZONAL CO-ORDINATOR

Pacquiao wins! over Marquez..

hangover!
That's what everyone is still talking about.
At the airports, at the shops, on the streets, the bellman...

11-11-11

ano ba meron sa november 11, 2011?

Surah Al-Fatiha

Bismillahi rahmanil raheem
Alhamdulillahi Rabb Al-alameen
Al-Rahman Al-Raheem
Malik Yawm Al-Deen
Iyyaka naabudoo wa iyyaka nastaayeen
ihdina al-siraut al mustaqeem;
Siraut al-latheena an’aamta aalayhem;
ghayr al-maghdoobi alayhem;
wala al-dauleenAmeen..

Praise be to Allah,
the Cherisher and Sustainer of the worlds
The Most Gracious, The Most Merciful
Master of the day of judgement
You Alone we worship and You Alone we ask for help
Show us the straight path;
The path of those upon whom you have bestowed Your Grace;
Not the path of those who have earned Your anger;
Nor those who go astray

List of Surahs

1. Al-Fatihah (the Opening)
2. Al-Baqarah (the Cow)
3. Aali Imran (the Family of Imran)
4. An-Nisa’ (the Women)
5. Al-Ma’idah (the Table)
6. Al-An’am (the Cattle)
7. Al-A’raf (the Heights)
8. Al-Anfal (the Spoils of War)
9. At-Taubah (the Repentance)
10. Yunus (Yunus)
11. Hud (Hud)
12. Yusuf (Yusuf)
13. Ar-Ra’d (the Thunder)
14. Ibrahim (Ibrahim)
15. Al-Hijr (the Rocky Tract)
16. An-Nahl (the Bees)
17. Al-Isra’ (the Night Journey)
18. Al-Kahf (the Cave)
19. Maryam (Maryam)
20. Ta-Ha (Ta-Ha)
21. Al-Anbiya’ (the Prophets)
22. Al-Haj (the Pilgrimage)
23. Al-Mu’minun (the Believers)
24. An-Nur (the Light)
25. Al-Furqan (the Criterion)
26. Ash-Shu’ara’ (the Poets)
27. An-Naml (the Ants)
28. Al-Qasas (the Stories)
29. Al-Ankabut (the Spider)
30. Ar-Rum (the Romans)
31. Luqman (Luqman)
32. As-Sajdah (the Prostration)
33. Al-Ahzab (the Combined Forces)
34. Saba’ (the Sabeans)
35. Al-Fatir (the Originator)
36. Ya-Sin (Ya-Sin)
37. As-Saffah (Those Ranges in Ranks)
38. Sad (Sad)
39. Az-Zumar (the Groups)
40. Ghafar (the Forgiver)
41. Fusilat (Distinguished)
42. Ash-Shura (the Consultation)
43. Az-Zukhruf (the Gold)
44. Ad-Dukhan (the Smoke)
45. Al-Jathiyah (the Kneeling)
46. Al-Ahqaf (the Valley)
47. Muhammad (Muhammad)
48. Al-Fat’h (the Victory)
49. Al-Hujurat (the Dwellings)
50. Qaf (Qaf)
51. Adz-Dzariyah (the Scatterers)
52. At-Tur (the Mount)
53. An-Najm (the Star)
54. Al-Qamar (the Moon)
55. Ar-Rahman (the Most Gracious)
56. Al-Waqi’ah (the Event)
57. Al-Hadid (the Iron)
58. Al-Mujadilah (the Reasoning)
59. Al-Hashr (the Gathering)
60. Al-Mumtahanah (the Tested)
61. As-Saf (the Row)
62. Al-Jum’ah (Friday)
63. Al-Munafiqun (the Hypocrites)
64. At-Taghabun (the Loss & Gain)
65. At-Talaq (the Divorce)
66. At-Tahrim (the Prohibition)
67. Al-Mulk – (the Kingdom)
68. Al-Qalam (the Pen)
69. Al-Haqqah (the Inevitable)
70. Al-Ma’arij (the Elevated Passages)
71. Nuh (Nuh)
72. Al-Jinn (the Jinn)
73. Al-Muzammil (the Wrapped)
74. Al-Mudaththir (the Cloaked)
75. Al-Qiyamah (the Resurrection)
76. Al-Insan (the Human)
77. Al-Mursalat (Those Sent Forth)
78. An-Naba’ (the Great News)
79. An-Nazi’at (Those Who Pull Out)
80. ‘Abasa (He Frowned)
81. At-Takwir (the Overthrowing)
82. Al-Infitar (the Cleaving)
83. Al-Mutaffifin (Those Who Deal in Fraud)
84. Al-Inshiqaq (the Splitting Asunder)
85. Al-Buruj (the Stars)
86. At-Tariq (the Nightcomer)
87. Al-A’la (the Most High)
88. Al-Ghashiyah (the Overwhelming)
89. Al-Fajr (the Dawn)
90. Al-Balad (the City)
91. Ash-Shams (the Sun)
92. Al-Layl (the Night)
93. Adh-Dhuha (the Forenoon)
94. Al-Inshirah (the Opening Forth)
95. At-Tin (the Fig)
96. Al-‘Alaq (the Clot)
97. Al-Qadar (the Night of Decree)
98. Al-Bayinah (the Proof)
99. Az-Zalzalah (the Earthquake)
100. Al-‘Adiyah (the Runners)
101. Al-Qari’ah (the Striking Hour)
102. At-Takathur (the Piling Up)
103. Al-‘Asr (the Time)
104. Al-Humazah (the Slanderer)
105. Al-Fil (the Elephant)
106. Quraish (Quraish)
107. Al-Ma’un (the Assistance)
108. Al-Kauthar (the River of Abundance)
109. Al-Kafirun (the Disbelievers)
110. An-Nasr (the Help)
111. Al-Masad (the Palm Fiber)
112. Al-Ikhlas (the Sincerity)
113. Al-Falaq (the Daybreak)
114. An-Nas (Mankind)

Ayat al-Kursi is verse 255 of the second chapter (Surah) of the Holy Quran, Surat al-Baqarah (The Chapter of the Cow)

اللَّهُ لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ هُوَ الْحَيُّ الْقَيُّومُ لاَ تَأْخُذُهُ سِنَةٌ وَلاَ نَوْمٌ لَهُ مَا فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَمَا فِي الأَرْضِ مَنْ ذَا الَّذِي
يَشْفَعُ عِنْدَهُ إِلاَّ بِإِذْنِهِ يَعْلَمُ مَا بَيْنَ أَيْدِيهِمْ وَمَا خَلْفَهُمْ وَلاَ يُحِيطُونَ بِشَيْءٍ مِنْ عِلْمِهِ إِلاَّ بِمَا شَاءَ وَسِعَ كُرْسِيُّهُ السَّمَاو ;َاتِ وَالأَرْضَ وَلاَ يَئُودُهُ حِفْظُهُمَا وَهُوَ الْعَلِيُّ الْعَظِيم


Allahu la ilaha illa Huwa, Al-Haiyul-Qaiyum La ta'khudhuhu sinatun wa la nawm, lahu ma fis-samawati wa ma fil-'ard Man dhal-ladhi yashfa'u 'indahu illa bi-idhnihi Ya'lamu ma baina aidihim wa ma khalfahum, wa la yuhituna bi shai'im-min 'ilmihi illa bima sha'a Wasi'a kursiyuhus-samawati wal ard, wa la ya'uduhu hifdhuhuma Wa Huwal 'Aliyul-Adheem


"Allah! There is no god but He - the Living, The Self-subsisting, Eternal. No slumber can seize Him Nor Sleep. His are all things In the heavens and on earth. Who is there can intercede In His presence except As he permitteth? He knoweth What (appeareth to His creatures As) Before or After or Behind them. Nor shall they compass Aught of his knowledge Except as He willeth. His throne doth extend Over the heavens And on earth, and He feeleth No fatigue in guarding And preserving them, For He is the Most High. The Supreme (in glory)."
[Surah al-Baqarah 2: 255]

10 things to protect oneself

1. Isti’adha – seek refuge in Allah (audhu billahi minash shaytaanir rajeem)
2. Surah Al-Fatihah (7x)
3. Surah Ikhlas, Falaq and An-Nas (3x each)
4. Ayatul Kursi
5. Surah Al-Baqarah
6. Last 2 verses of Surah Al-Baqarah
7. First 3 verses of Surah Ghaafir (chapter 40) and then Ayatul Kursi
8. Say ‘la ilaha illallah wahdahu la sharik alahu lahul mulku wa lahul hamdu wa huwa
ala kulli shai’in qadeer’ (100x)
9. Make wudhu
10. Make dhikr

"If you guarantee me 6 things I shall guarantee you Paradise: Speak the truth when you talk, keep a promise when you make it, when you are trusted with something fulfill your trust, avoid sexual immorality, lower your gaze (in modesty) & restrain your hands from commiting injustice." - The Prophet Muhammed (S) [Al Tirmidhi, Hadith 1260]

problem... problem... problem...

Habang tayo ay nabubuhay, hindi natatapos ang pagtik-tik ng orasan. Kasabay ng pagdating ng mga problema at pagsubok sa buhay.
Harapin lang natin ito, huwag talikuran. Pag tinalikuran natin ito, mas lalong dadami pa ito. Harapin! Pag-isipang e-resolve. Labanan! At pag-tagumpayan..
Lagi natin tatandaan, ang patay lang ang hindi na nanganganak ng problema. So, let's thank God for the life He gave us. Enjoy life!

Herbal Medicine: Bawang, Bauang / Garlic (Allium sativum)

Bawang or Garlic (scientific name: Allium sativum) is one of the most widely used herbal medicine in the Philippines. The Philippine bawang variety is more pungent than the imported ones. It's medicinal properties has been known for a long time and has been specially proven during World War II. Because of Bawang's antibacterial compound known as Allicin, lives were saved by preventing wounds from having infection and later develop into gangrene when the juice of Bawang or garlic was applied to the wounds.
Bawang/garlic is known as nature's antibiotic. It's juices inhibits the growth of fungi and viruses thus prevents viral, yeast and viral infections. Preliminary test also shows some positive results in the treatment of AIDS.
Several clinical test and published studies have shown the efficacy of bawang in lowering cholesterol in the blood and is beneficial to the circulatory system of the body. Today as more research is done with bawang, more medicinal and therapeutic properties become more evident.
After thorough research and test, the Philippine Department of Health has endorsed bawang as one of the ten Philippine herbs with therapeutic value and recommends it's use as an alternative herbal medicine.

Benefits of Bawang:

• Good for the heart• Helps lower bad cholesterol levels (LDL)• Aids in lowering blood pressure• Remedy for arteriosclerosis• May help prevent certain types of cancer• Boosts immune system to fight infection• With antioxidant properties• Cough and cold remedy• Relives sore throat, toothache• Aids in the treatment of tuberculosis• With anticoagulant properties


Preparation of Bawang:

• For disinfecting wound, crush and juice the garlic bulb and apply. You may cover the afflicted area with a gauze and bandage. • For sore throat and toothache, peal the skin and chew. Swallow the juice.• Aside from being an herbal medicine for hypertension, arteriosclerosis and other ailments, garlic is also recommended for maintaining good health - eat raw garlic bulb, and include bawang regularly in the food you eat. It's healthy and taste good in a variety of dishes.

Eid'ul Adha "The Festival of Sacrifice"

What is Eid al-Adha?

At the end of the Hajj (annual pilgrimage to Mecca), Muslims throughout the world celebrate the holiday of Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice). In 2011, Eid al-Adha will begin on or around November 6th, and will last for three days.




What does Eid al-Adha commemorate?

During the Hajj, Muslims remember and commemorate the trials and triumphs of the Prophet Abraham. The Qur'an describes Abraham as follows:

"Surely Abraham was an example, obedient to Allah, by nature upright, and he was not of the polytheists. He was grateful for Our bounties. We chose him and guided him unto a right path. We gave him good in this world, and in the next he will most surely be among the righteous." (Qur'an 16:120-121)

One of Abraham's main trials was to face the command of Allah to kill his only son. Upon hearing this command, he prepared to submit to Allah's will. When he was all prepared to do it, Allah revealed to him that his "sacrifice" had already been fulfilled. He had shown that his love for his Lord superceded all others, that he would lay down his own life or the lives of those dear to him in order to submit to God.


Why do Muslims sacrifice an animal on this day?

During the celebration of Eid al-Adha, Muslims commemorate and remember Abraham's trials, by themselves slaughtering an animal such as a sheep, camel, or goat. This action is very often misunderstood by those outside the faith.

Allah has given us power over animals and allowed us to eat meat, but only if we pronounce His name at the solemn act of taking life. Muslims slaughter animals in the same way throughout the year. By saying the name of Allah at the time of slaughter, we are reminded that life is sacred.

The meat from the sacrifice of Eid al-Adha is mostly given away to others. One-third is eaten by immediate family and relatives, one-third is given away to friends, and one-third is donated to the poor. The act symbolizes our willingness to give up things that are of benefit to us or close to our hearts, in order to follow Allah's commands. It also symbolizes our willingness to give up some of our own bounties, in order to strengthen ties of friendship and help those who are in need. We recognize that all blessings come from Allah, and we should open our hearts and share with others.

It is very important to understand that the sacrifice itself, as practiced by Muslims, has nothing to do with atoning for our sins or using the blood to wash ourselves from sin. This is a misunderstanding by those of previous generations: "It is not their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah; it is your piety that reaches Him." (Qur'an 22:37)

The symbolism is in the attitude - a willingness to make sacrifices in our lives in order to stay on the Straight Path. Each of us makes small sacrifices, giving up things that are fun or important to us. A true Muslim, one who submits his or herself completely to the Lord, is willing to follow Allah's commands completely and obediently. It is this strength of heart, purity in faith, and willing obedience that our Lord desires from us.


What else do Muslims do to celebrate the holiday?

On the first morning of Eid al-Adha, Muslims around the world attend morning prayers at their local mosques. Prayers are followed by visits with family and friends, and the exchange of greetings and gifts. At some point, members of the family will visit a local farm or otherwise will make arrangements for the slaughter of an animal. The meat is distributed during the days of the holiday or shortly thereafter.

..from d' Blog of OgieDiaz

Pimple Making List...

"Put---ina naman, o! Kahit kailan, hindi kita kailangan, baket sulpot ka nang sulpot?! Nakakasira ka ng araw. Nakakasira ka ng diskarte. Mako-conscious na naman ako niyan, dahil nandiyan ka na naman, bwiset ka!"
Kung may buhay lang ang "taghiyawat" at nakakapagsalita rin, siguro, sinagot ka na niyan ng, "Gago ka? Pinagpuyatan mo 'ko, tapos, ieetsa-puwera mo lang ako? Okay ka lang?!"
Sino ba'ng gusto ng pimples?
Sa mga sanay nang tubuan nito, normal na lang ang dayalog na, "Ah, okay. Andiyan ka na naman. Favorite mo talaga ang mukha ko! Mawawala ka rin!" na pag nawawala nga, kaagad-agad, may kapalit na naman ito hanggang hindi mo namamalayan, wala ka na palang pimples. Na puwedeng mapaglagyan pa sa mukha mo.
Siguro, kung may mga paa lang ang pimples, palalagyan mo rin ng pinto ang mukha mo para hindi makapasok at pamahayan ng peste.
Kahit kelan ay hindi mo puwedeng sabihing weather-weather lang ang pagtubo ng pimples sa mukha mo. Kung minsan nga, hindi ka naman nagpupuyat, kumbakit paggising mo, andiyan na naman siya.
Na ang katwiran naman ng iba, "Tumutubo 'yan kasi isip ka nang isip, balisa ka, nagwo-worry ka, hindi ka mapakali!"
May mga nagkaka-pimples namang girls pag "meron." 'Yung isang kaibigan ko ngang girl, nabubuwisit, kasi nga, mga anim na pimples ang tutubo sa mukha niya pag "meron" siya.
Sey niya, "Juice ko, sana, kung saan na lang ako dinugo, du'n na lang tumubo ang pimples. Hindi pa kita."
Ako, nu'ng bagets pa ako--walang exaj, ha?--juice ko po, araw-araw, ang lulusog ng mga pimples na tumutubo sa mukha ko. Mapipintog at mabibilog. Na otomatik na 'yan, ipiprik ko talaga siya to death na magiging sugat, tapos, hahayaang mag-heal hanggang sa maging scar na.
Tapos, same procedure pag bumalik uli ang hayup na pimples.
Charo Santos-Conscious talaga kasi ako sa pimples, eh. Lalo na nu'ng araw na kung ano-ano na lang ang kapaniwalaan kong kayang sumugpo sa pimples ko.
Siyempre, kung ano-ano iisipin mo, lalo na't Poorita Mirasol lang kami nu'ng araw (wow, mayaman ka na, Ogie, gano'n?).
Nandiyang para akong gago na mamimitas ng dahon ng bayabas, ilalaga ko siya at 'yung pinakuluang sabaw no'n ang siyang ihihilamos ko.
Everytime ginagawa ko 'yon sa umaga, 'tang*na, feeling ko, parang "tit*ng bagong tule 'yung mukha ko na nilalanggas ko sa sabaw ng dahon ng bayabas.
Na pucha, baka mawala nga ang pimples ko, nangamatis naman ang mukha ko nito. Hahaha!
Pero honest? Kung me nangyari? Hehehe. Meron. Hindi naman nagbubuntis ang pimples, di ba? Pero nanganak siyang lalo, kalokah. So tanggal na sa listahan ko ang dahon ng bayabas.
Ang ginawa ko, dasal na lang ke St. Therese. Kilala n'yo ba si St. Therese? No, 'yung iniisip n'yo, Santo 'yon. Si St. Therese na kilala ko, 'yan 'yung ginagawa ko na lang sa pimples ko nu'ng araw, dahil walang pampagamot--Therese nang Therese.
Kaya nu'ng pumasok na 'ko sa showbiz, sabi ko sa sarili ko, kailangan, bongga na ang fez ko. Although mukha pa rin akong adik sa kapayatan nu'ng mga early 90s, keri lang.
Basta kahit chaka (read: pangit) ang face ko, ang importante, humupa lang ang tsunami ng pimples sa mukha ko.
Kung sino-sinong mga OPM (Oh, Promise Me!) na dermatologists na ang nakipagpambuno sa pimples ko, kung ano-anong gamot ang binili ko mismo sa clinic nila, 'yung iba, nagreseta pa at sa botika ko pa binili, wa pa rin talab.
Minsan nga, naisip ko, sa dami ng resetang nasa akin, ano kaya kung 'yung reseta na lang ang ipahid ko sa mukha ko, magkahimala kaya? Ganyan ako kadesperado noon.
Hanggang sa ma-meet ko si Dra. Vicki Belo na noon ay madalas mag-guest sa morning show kung saan kasama akong naglo-Locomotion. Alam ni Doc Belo, tinatakpan lang ng concealer ang mga bakas ng pimples sa mukha ko at minemeyk-apan.
Kaya nakakatuwa, isang araw, sabi niya sa akin, "You go to my clinic and I will do everything to get rid of that pimple scars!"
"Nako, baka mahal, Doc, hindi ko kaya."
"No, don't pay! Ako'ng bahala!"
Face ko ang kawawa, gano'n?
'Yun eh sa loob-loob ko lang, dahil sobrang gusto ko nang sumuko talaga. Iniisip ko na nga lang, good luck sa 'yo, Doc Belo. Hindi na 'ko masa-shock kung susuko ka rin.
So, the rest is history na. Alam kong hindi pa rin ako maganda, pero ang importante, humupa na ang salot sa mukha ko mula nang mapasakamay ako ng Belo Medical Group.
Ang nakakatuwa pa, ilang beses na 'kong nawalan ng tv show, pero si Doc Belo, walang pakialam kung wala akong show. "It's okay, Ogs. You've been loyal to us naman." Kaya lagi, pag me pagkakataon, pinasasalamatan ko si Dra. Belo at ang kanyang clinic pag may tv show ako. Kasi, alam ko, doon lang ako puwedeng bumawi.
Teka, baka isipin mo, kaya ko sinulat ang blog na ito para lang i-promote si Dra. Belo, ha? Hindi. Noon pa, lagi ko na siyang pinasasalamatan pag may pagkakataon, kasi siya at ang clinic niya ang himalang dumating sa buhay ko, lalo na at napatunayan ko kung paano makipagkaibigan si Doc. Kaya sobrang love ko 'yan.
Pero uulitin ko, ha? Hindi ko ineendorso si Dra. Belo sa iyo. Ikinukuwento ko lang ang history ng pimples ko.
Pero na-realize ko, alam mo. Eto, ha? Hindi naman ako doktor. Isa lang akong nilalang na punumpuno ng karanasan, este, ng pimples nu'ng araw. Bibigyan kita ng tips kung paano maiiwasang magka-pimples.
Alam kong depende pa rin sa type ng skin mo, sa habit o sa routine mo, sa mga kung anik-anik na inilalagay mo sa mukha mo o sa sabong gamit mo kaya ka nagkaka-pimples.
Pero base sa aking "pimple journey," eh ang dami kong na-realize.
Una, pag makinis na ang mukha mo o hindi ka tinutubuan ng pimples, kung ano 'yung routine mo sa mukha mo o sa life mo, 'yun ang i-maintain mo.
'Wag ka nang maging vain. 'Wag mo nang balaking magkutis-artista na gusto mong ma-achieve ang rosy cheeks. Baka mag-react lang ang skin mo sa ipapahid mong astringent o ointment o sa pinaiinom sa 'yong tabletas o capsules.
In short, 'wag kang umarte porke me panggastos ka. Lalo kang gagastos pag hindi mo na-achieve ang pangarap mong rosy cheeks.
Pangalawa, pag tinubuan ng isang pimple ang alinmang parte ng mukha mo, deadmahin mo. Wag mong papansinin. May isip ang pimples. Nang-iinis ang mga gagong 'yan.
Pag 'yung kaisa-isa ay tiniris mo, natural, magre-react 'yan. "Ah, gano'n, tiniris mo 'ko? Puwes, humanda ka, isusumbong kita sa mga kasamahan ko para lalo kang pamugaran ng aming angkan! Bwahahaha!"
Pero pag dinedma mo, mararamdaman ng pimple na 'yan na, "Ba't hindi mo 'ko tiniris? Pa'no ko manganganak nang marami, ayaw mong pisain? Ayaw mo 'kong pansinin?"
Alam n'yo naman ang mga pimples, para siyang multi-level marketing o 'yung tinatawag na "networking." Pag hindi gumana ang "upline," hindi siya makakakuha ng mga "downline."
Pangatlo, pag hindi ka makatiis at kating-kati ka nang tirisin ang unang pimple na tumubo sa mukha mo, hugasan mong maigi ang mga kamay mo bago mo ito tirisin. Tapos, kuha ka ng yelo ('wag 'yung nakadikit sa wall ng freezer, ha?). Idikit mo 'to sa apektadong area of responsibility for how many minutes.
Pang-apat, pag may tumubong pimple sa tungki o tuktok ng ilong mo, nako, please, 'wag na 'wag mong pakikialaman.
Juice ko, pimpolin ka na sa ibang bahagi, 'wag lang sa ilong, dahil sentro ang ilong, kahit anong kinis ng mukha mo, pag meron kang isang bonggang pimple sa tungki ng ilong o pimple scar (ang masaklap nito kung umaalsa ang scar o nagiging keloid), mapapansin pa rin 'yan ng mga fans mo (kung meron, ha?).
Ipagdasal mong sana, next time, sa loob na lang ng ilong tumubo kahit ang sakit.
Panglima, pag sa noo tinubuan ka, baka natutusok ng mga dulo ng bangs mo, kaya i-brush up mo o awatin mo ng headband o ng hairclips.
Pang-anim, 'wag kang conscious na harap ka nang harap sa salamin para silipin kung may pimple kang nag-"guest of honor."
Pag inisip mong baka tinubuan ka na kaya ka tumitingin sa salamin, baka sorpresahin ka ng pimples sa ibang araw, sige ka.
Pangpito, kung nandiyan na 'yan at nataymingan naman na mag-aaplay ka ng trabaho. Baka puwedeng ipasa mo muna ang resume mo na produkto na ng photoshop ang retrato mo. Du'n man lang sa litrato mo, kuminis ang mukha mo.
Pangwalo, kung bago mo nabasa ito eh huli na at marami ka nang pimples, i-sey mo na lang sa mga makakapansin, busy ka kamo at puyat palagi, kaya "bepimpled" ka. Para hindi na masyadong masakit sa damdamin.
Pero come to think of it, panlabas na anyo lang 'yan. Mas importante pa rin ang ugali mo sa iyong kapwa at sa sarili.
Hindi kailanman tinitighiyawat ang pagkatao ng isang tao. Kung hahayaan mong madungisan ang iyong pagkatao, saka mo ituring na taghiyawat 'yon.
Papaapekto ka ba sa pimples kung marami namang nagmamahal sa 'yo resulta ng pagiging isang mabuting tao mo?
Tandaan mo...
Balewala ang pimple kung marami namang natutuwa sa 'yong pipol.

Health tips

Certain precautions can often prevent pneumococcal bacteria from colonising your respiratory tracts:

= Cover your mouth and face when coughing.
= Wash your hands frequently.
= Get regular flu shots to protect yourself from influenza.
= Teach your children these healthy habits at an early age.

------edit and change! :)

It's time to edit and change, edit and change, edit and change :) Life is a never ending cycle of editing and changing :)

D' Brother..

Halloween Jokes!

Q. Why did the skeleton cross the road? A. To go to the body shop.

Q. What kind of makeup do ghosts wear? A. Mas-scare-a.

Q. What tops off a ghost's ice cream sundae? A. Whipped scream.

Q. Where do most werewolves live? A. In howllywood, California

Q. What do you call a little monsters parents A. mummy and deady

Q. What do ghosts eat for breakfast? A. Boo-Berries.

Q. What instrument do skeleton play? A: Trom-BONE.

Q. How does a girl vampire flirt? A. She bats her eyes.

Q. Why doesn't anybody like Dracula? A. He has a bat temper.

Q. 1ST PERSON: KNOCK,KNOCK
2ND PERSON: WHO'S THERE
1ST PERSON: PHILLIP
2ND PERSON: PHILLIP WHO ?
1ST PERSON: ÊFILL UP MY BAG WITH CANDY !!!
2ND PERSON: HA,HA,HA (LOL)

Miss my Father so much! ♥♥♥

Back when I was a child
Before life removed all the innocence
My father would lift me high
And dance with my mother and me and then

Spin me around 'til I fell asleep
Then up the stairs he would carry me
And I knew for sure, I was loved

If I could get another chance
Another walk, another dance with him
I'd play a song that would never ever end
How I'd love, love, love, to dance with my father again

When I and my mother will disagree
To get my way I would run from her to him
He'd make me laugh just to comfort me
Yeah, yeah, then finally make me do just what my mama says

Later that night when I was asleep
He left a dollar under my sheet
Never dreamed that he would be gone from me

If I could steal one final glance
One final step, one final dance with him
I'd play a song that would never ever end
'Cause I'd love, love, love, love to dance with my father again

Sometimes I'd listen outside her door
And I'd hear how my mama cried for him
I pray for her even more than me
I pray for her even more than me

I know, I'm praying for much too much
But could You send back the only man she loved
I know You don't do it usually
But dear Lord she's dying to dance with my father again
Every night I fall asleep and this is all I ever dream

I know You don't do it usually
But dear Lord she's dying to dance with my father again

Top 10 Reasons to Smile

1. Smiling Makes Us Attractive
We are drawn to people who smile. There is an attraction factor. We want to know a smiling person and figure out what is so good. Frowns, scowls and grimaces all push people away -- but a smile draws them in.

2. Smiling Changes Our Mood
Next time you are feeling down, try putting on a smile. There's a good chance you mood will change for the better. Smiling can trick the body into helping you change your mood.

3. Smiling Is Contagious
When someone is smiling they lighten up the room, change the moods of others, and make things happier. A smiling person brings happiness with them. Smile lots and you will draw people to you.

4. Smiling Relieves Stress
Stress can really show up in our faces. Smiling helps to prevent us from looking tired, worn down, and overwhelmed. When you are stressed, take time to put on a smile. The stress should be reduced and you'll be better able to take action.

5. Smiling Boosts Your Immune System
Smiling helps the immune system to work better. When you smile, immune function improves possibly because you are more relaxed. Prevent the flu and colds by smiling.

6. Smiling Lowers Your Blood Pressure
When you smile, there is a measurable reduction in your blood pressure. Give it a try if you have a blood pressure monitor at home. Sit for a few minutes, take a reading. Then smile for a minute and take another reading while still smiling. Do you notice a difference?

7. Smiling Releases Endorphins, Natural Pain Killers and Serotonin
Studies have shown that smiling releases endorphins, natural pain killers, and serotonin. Together these three make us feel good. Smiling is a natural drug.

8. Smiling Lifts the Face and Makes You Look Younger
The muscles we use to smile lift the face, making a person appear younger. Don't go for a face lift, just try smiling your way through the day -- you'll look younger and feel better.

9. Smiling Makes You Seem Successful
Smiling people appear more confident, are more likely to be promoted, and more likely to be approached. Put on a smile at meetings and appointments and people will react to you differently.

10. Smiling Helps You Stay Positive
Try this test: Smile. Now try to think of something negative without losing the smile. It's hard. When we smile our body is sending the rest of us a message that "Life is Good!" Stay away from depression, stress and worry by smiling.

..copy ..paste

Folks, not all i posts here is mine.
i only copy and paste it to share with you.
because i find it significant for all.
Thanks to the owner!

Importance of having Breakfast..

Breakfast can help prevent strokes, heart attack and sudden death. Advice on not to skip breakfast!

Healthy living
For those who always skip breakfast, you should stop that habit now! You've heard many times that "Breakfast is the most important meal of the day." Now, recent research confirms that one of the worst practices you can develop may be avoiding breakfast.

Why?
Because the frequency of heart attack, sudden death, and stroke peaks between 6: 00a.m. and noon, with the highest incidence being
between 8: 00a.m. and 10:00a.m.What mechanism within the body could account for this significant jump in sudden death in the early
morning hours?

We may have an Answer.


Platelet, tiny elements in the blood that keep us from bleeding to Death if we get a cut, can clump together inside our arteries due to
cholesterol or laque buildup in the artery lining. It is in the morning hours that platelets become the most activated and tend to form these internal blood clots at the greatest frequency.

However, eating even a very light breakfast prevents the morning platelet activation that is associated with heart attacks and strokes. Studies performed at Memorial University in St.Johns, Newfoundland found that eating a light, very low-fat breakfast was critical in modifying the morning platelet activation. Subjects in the study consumed either low-fat or fat-free yogurt, orange juice, fruit, and a source of protein coming from yogurt or fat-free milk. So if you skip breakfast, it's important that you change t his practice immediately in light of this research. Develop a simple plan to eat cereal, such as oatmeal or Bran Flakes, along with six ounces of grape juice or orange juice, and perhaps a piece of fruit. This simple plan will keep your platelets from sticking together, keep blood clots from forming, and perhaps head off a potential Heart Attack or stroke.

Miracle Drink : Carrot, Beet Root and Apple

This MIRACLE DRINK has been circulating for a long time long ago. It is worth your while to take note. There is a celebrity Mr. Seto who swears by it. He wants to make it public to draw the attention of people who have cancers. This is a drink that can protect bad cells forming in your body or it will restrain its growth! Mr. Seto had lung cancer. He was recommended to take this drink by a famous Herbalist from China. He has taken this drink diligently for 3 months and now his health is restored, and he is ready to take a pleasure trip. Thanks to this drink! It does not hurt for you to try.

It is like a Miracle Drink! It is simple
You need one beet root, one carrot and one apple that combine together to make the JUICE !

Wash the above, cut with the skin on into pieces and put them into the juicer and immediately you drink the juice. You can add some lime or lemon for more refreshing taste.

This Miracle Drink will be effective for the following ailments:

1. Prevent cancer cells to develop. It will restrain cancer cells to grow.
2. Prevent liver, kidney, pancreas disease and it can cure ulcer as well.
3. Strengthen the lung, prevent heart attack and high blood pressure.
4. Strengthen the immune system
5. Good for the eyesight, eliminate red and tired eyes or dry eyes
6. Help to eliminate pain from physical training, muscle ache
7. Detoxify, assist bowel movement, eliminate constipation. Therefore it will make skin healthy & LOOK more radiant. It is God sent for acne problem.
8. Improve bad breath due to indigestion, throat infection,
9. Lessen menstrual pain
10. Assist Hay Fever Sufferer from Hay Fever attack.

There is absolutely no side effect. Highly nutritious and easily absorbs! Very effective if you need to loose weight. You will notice your immune system will be improved after 2 week routine. Please make sure to drink immediately from the juicer for best effect.

WHEN TO DRINK IT:

DRINK IT FIRST THING IN THE MORNING WITH THE EMPTY STOMACH! AFTER ONE HOUR YOU CAN EAT BREAKFAST. FOR FAST RESULTS DRINK 2 TIMES A DAY, IN THE MORNING AND BEFORE 5 P.M.

Onion and the White socks..

A friend of mine told me a story about when he was a kid he was in the hospital & nearly dying. His grandmother came to the hospital & told a family member to go buy her a large onion & a new pair of white cotton socks. She sliced the onion open then put a slice on the bottom of each of his feet & put the white cotton socks on him. In the morning when he awoke they removed the socks. The slices of onion were black & his fever was gone. The following story that someone sent to me might have some truth in it & we are going to try it this winter.

In 1919 when the flu killed 40 million people there was this Doctor that visited the many farmers to see if he could help them combat the flu. Many of the farmers and their family had contracted it and many died.

The doctor came upon this one farmer and to his surprise, everyone was very healthy. When the doctor asked what the farmer was doing that was different the wife replied that she had placed an unpeeled onion in a dish in the rooms of the home, (probably only two rooms back then). The doctor couldn't believe it and asked if he could have one of the onions and place it under the microscope. She gave him one and when he did this, he did find the flu virus in the onion. It obviously absorbed the bacteria, therefore, keeping the family healthy.

Now, I heard this story from my hairdresser in AZ. She said that several years ago many of her employees were coming down with the flu and so were many of her customers. The next year she placed several bowls with onions around in her shop. To her surprise, none of her staff got sick. It must work.. (And no, she is not in the onion business.)

The moral of the story is, buy some onions and place them in bowls around your home. If you work at a desk, place one or two in your office or under your desk or even on top somewhere. Try it and see what happens. We did it last year and we never got the flu.

For flu cure:
cut both ends off an onion put one end on a fork and then place the forked end into an empty jar...placing the jar next to the sick patient at night. It said the onion would be black in the morning from the germs...sure enough it happened just like that...the onion was a mess and I began to feel better.

Onions and garlic placed around the room saved many from the black plague years ago. They have powerful antibacterial, antiseptic properties.

One more thing, never store cut onions and consume the next day.

Take note...don't always sleep late!!

Good rest and sound sleep is very
Important... if u don't sleep well,
The toxic in your body will accumulate..
Affecting your health and your mood...

The main causes of liver damage are:
1. Sleeping too late and waking up too late are the main cause.
2. Not urinating in the morning.
3. Too much eating.
4. Skipping breakfast.
5. Consuming too much medication.
6. Consuming too much preservatives, additives, food coloring, and artificial sweetener.
7. Consuming unhealthy cooking oil. As much as possible reduce cooking oil use when frying, which includes even the best cooking oils like olive oil. Do not consume fried foods when you are tired, except if the body is very fit.
8. Consuming overly done foods also add to the burden of liver. Veggies should be eaten raw or cooked 3-5 parts. Fried veggies should be finished in one sitting, do not store.

We just have to adopt a good daily lifestyle and eating habits. Maintaining good eating habits and time condition are very important for our body to absorb and get rid of unnecessary chemicals according to 'schedule.'


Because: Evening at 9 - 11pm : is the time for eliminating unnecessary/ toxic chemicals (de-toxification) from the antibody system (lymph nodes). This time duration should be spent by relaxing or listening to music. If during this time a housewife is still in an unrelaxed state such as washing the dishes or monitoring children doing their homework, this will have a negative impact on her health.


Evening at 11pm - 1am : The de-toxification process in the liver, and ideally should be done in a deep sleep state. Early morning 1 - 3am : de-toxification process in the gall, also ideally done in a deep sleep state.

Early morning 3 - 5am : de-toxification in the lungs. Therefore there will sometimes be a severe cough for cough sufferers during this time. Since the de-toxification process had reached the respiratory tract, there is no need to take cough medicine so as not to interfere with toxin removal process.
Morning 5 - 7am : de-toxification in the colon, you should empty your bowel.


Morning 7 - 9am : Absorption of nutrients in the small intestine, you should be having breakfast at this time. Breakfast should be earlier, before 6:30am, for those who are sick. Breakfast before 7:30am is very beneficial to those wanting to stay fit. Those who always skip breakfast, they should change their habits, and it is still better to eat breakfast late until 9 -10am rather than no meal at all. Sleeping so late and waking up too late will disrupt the process of removing unnecessary chemicals. Aside from that, midnight to 4am is the time when the bone marrow produces blood.

Therefore, have a good sleep and don't sleep late.

Ginger cures..

Dry ginger can be used to cure indigestion, chest irritation,for wheezing, for cough, for stomach bloating, earache etc.
Dry ginger powder mixed with sugarcane juice and taken first thing in the morning cures stomach irritation.
Dry ginger ground and made to a fine paste and applied on the forehead cures headache. When applied externally to throat it cures throat pain.
Dry ginger and sugar candy of equal quantity powdered and one tablespoon of the powder taken internally in tender coconut water cures chest pain.
Boil water with few pieces of dry ginger. Drinking this water helps in maintaining good health.
Dry ginger ground into a fine paste and applied externally is an excellent remedy for swollen joints.

Home Remedies for cold & cough
• Keep the body warm always. Close the ears with a blanket or large piece of cotton. Wear socks for the foot.
• Take half spoon of ginger juice, half spoon of honey. Mix it and take it thrice a day. Ginger will help in removing the phlegm.
• Mix 1 spoon of lime juice and 1 spoon of honey in a cup of water. Drink this frequently (atleast 5 times) in a day.
• For dry cough, take a piece of ginger, peel it and chew it with some salt.
• Ginger tea is also good for dry cough.
• Take 1 spoon of cardamom,dry ginger powder, black pepper and cinnamon. Add 4 spoons of sugar . Grind the mixture into fine powder. Mix half spoon of this powder with honey twice a day after having food.
• For sore throat, gargle with warm water. Adding a spoon salt to the water will be best. Do this gargling in the morning and at night.
• Make a paste of half a spoon of turmeric powder, a pinch of black pepper powder and 1 spoon of honey. Take this paste after having food. Drink a cup of milk after this. This will have wonderful effect for common cold and cough.
• Take 4 cups of water. Add half a spoon of sukku (dry ginger) podi. Boil the water. Cool it and drink this water for the whole day. Do not drink the 3 cups at one time. Take it in some interval of time.
• Take 1 spoon of tulasi, 1 spoon of ginger juice and 1 spoon of honey. Mix it and have it in the morning. This will give a great relief.

Remedy for Anemia

Anemia according to medical terms is the state in which the body has lesser amount of red blood cells than is required.

Here are a few home remedies to effectively control and prevent anemia

Take a cup of beetroot juice and a cup of apple juice with honey or sugar. This speeds up RBC production.
Eat a ripe banana with two teaspoon honey twice a day.
Eat Indian gooseberry or orange. These fruits help speed up iron absorption to body.
Drink a cup of tomato juice mixed with apple juice once in four hours.
Take honey. It has easily digestible and absorbable minerals, especially iron.
Take lot of seafood, liver, egg yolk, chick peas, green peas, broccoli, raisins and dates.
Don't drink carbonated beverages, coffee and tea. They prevent absorption of iron especially when a person suffers from anemia.

What do I need for Hajj or Umrah - checklist

Those embarking upon Hajj or Umrah are embarking upon a Journey of life time – a Journey like none other! They must prepare mentally, physically, emotionally and most importantly spiritually. Allah says:

“And take a provision (with you) for the journey, but the best provision is At-Taqwa (piety, righteousness, etc.).
So fear Me, O men of understanding!” (Quran 2:197)

So what ever you do don’t leave this behind!

Below a list has been compiled for preparation before leaving for Hajj or Umrah:

Islamic things to learn
Islamic things to do
General things to do
Issues and Questions to ask our Travel Agent
Things to take/buy

Islamic things to learn

What is Hajj, its history
Why are we going to perform Hajj/Umrah
What are the rewards of Hajj/Umrah
How to perform Hajj/Umrah – its pillars, obligatory and sunnah actions (books, audio, videos, seminars) - the Prophet Muhammad (s) said: “Take yor hajj rites from me”
Learn the relevant dua’s
What violates the state of Ihram
Review our prayers (Salah) and purification (Wudu)
Ettiquettes of Duaa
Wiping over our socks instead of washing our feet for wudu (know its rulings)
Tayammum – when one does not have access to water (know its rulings)
Janaza Salah (there are a lot of funeral prayers in both the Holy Masaajid)
Learn how to perform Witr prayer
Learn how to pray in congregation
Learn the rulings to the travellers prayer

Islamic things to do

Update/Make an Islamic Will
Build on and improve on our ibadah (worship)
5 daily prayers on time: Build our relationship with Allah, seeking alot of forgiveness and making alot of dua (especially asking Allah to grant us a Mabrur Hajj / Umrah (one which is accepted)
Purify our hearts from any bad habits or any action displeasing to Allah
Purify our tongues – by speaking good, reduce idle talk and increase in dhikr
Try to do the optional fasts (e.g. Monday & Thursday / middle 3 days of month)
Try and pray Tahajjud (the night prayer)
Build on your Taqwaa (consciousness of Allah(SWT)
that He is watching us /Fearing Allah /Staying away from all that He has forbidden, etc.
Reciting the Quran and reflecting upon its meaning and implementing them /Learn about Jannah and Jahannum, etc.
Increase our Emaan (faith)
Constantly renew your intentions to why you are going for Hajj – it is a duty we owe to Allah, we are going to please Allah alone
Build on being patient
Maintain a positive attitude
Say Alhamdulillah for the good and bad
Think of those in worse situations
Make dhikr and istighfar when in difficult situation
Increase on your love for Allah and His Nabi (S) by studying the life of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and the stories of the Sahaba and how they sacrificed their everything for Islam (their wealth, health, status, time and even lives)

General Things to do

Pay off any outstanding debts (if possible)
Make peace with those we have had a misunderstanding, dispute or fallen out with, or are not on speaking terms etc.
Ask forgiveness from those whom we have wronged (remember a Muslim does should not let 3 days go by without giving salaam to your fellow Muslim)
Finish all important jobs and tasks that need doing before leaving for Hajj
Book with a Travel Agent
Photographs for VISA
Process and obtain VISA
Vacinations, Meningitis Jab, Flue Jab etc – Obtain certificates

Questions and Issues to ask your Travel Agent

Get references from others for the travel agents
Flight dates / journey
What’s the itinary / program
How many bathrooms per room?
On which floor is our room?
Do the rooms have air conditioning, fridge?
Do the receptionists speak English?
During the Hajj days, what type of food will be provided to us?
Hotel names
When will we move to Azziyah?
What which day will our group go to Makkah to perform Tawaf Ifadah? Is transport provided
How far is our Hotel from Masjid al haram and Masjid an nabawi?
What are the arrangements for our Animal Sacrifice (Hady)?
Does anyone in our group speak English, who will translate the hajj khutbah to us?
What airline are we flying on?

There are many more questions one can ask, please refer to the book “Getting the best out of Al Hajj” – written by Ismail Davids (publisher company – Darrusalaam)
Things to take / buy

Below are just suggestions of things to take with you to Hajj. They are not all necesary items – individually pick and choose what you feel is best suitable. Don’t forget to pack bags of Taqwaa, Patience and your best of manners/behaviour! You will soon be a guest of Allah at His House!

Hand Luggage – Essentials to take (Max 5kg, Dimensions: H 56cm x W 45cm x D 25cm)
NOTE: Everybody has black suitcases, so try and take one that is not black OR have a fluorescent tape /tag /ribbon attached so its easily recognisable.

Islamic resources

Pocket Qur'an, dua books
Hajj/umrah books
MP3 player
Pen and pencil
Notebook
Musalla (i.e. prayer mat)

Clothes & Accessories

Ihram * 2
Slippers
Trainers
Waist pouch
Folding umbrella
Extra clothing
Underwear,socks

Toiletries and medicines

Tooth brush
Tooth paste
Comb
Toilet paper
Soap * 2
Shower gel + shampoo bottle - Simple range are perfume free
Vaseline (small)
Paracetamol
Plasters
Nail cutter
Any regular medication you take
Small scissors
Towels - 2 large, 2 small
Cough-drops
Disposable razors
Napkins
Plastic soap dish
Deodorant
Cream/balm eg E45 – for cracked skin on heels

Misc

Money
Passport inc visa
Medical certificates - vaccinations
Spare glasses (if necessary)
Suitcase locks + keys
Mobile phone
Phone charger
Emergency contact numbers
Small stringed bag (for sandals/stones)
Universal adapter
Spare Luggage tags
Carrier bags
Photocopy of passport
Plastic zippered sandwich bags – to keep items secure and dry
Snack bars
Sunglasses
Travel alarm clock
Sleeping bag
1 heavy sheet
Inflatable pillow