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)’.

Jumu’ah prayer is not obligatory for women

Is Jumu'ah prayer obligatory for women too, or only for men? How should a woman pray? I am a woman and I do not have any place in the mosque. Can I pray Jumu’ah at home by myself? Will I attain the reward for Jumu’ah?.




Praise be to Allaah.


The scholars are agreed that Jumu’ah prayer is not obligatory for women, and that they may pray four rak’ahs of Zuhr in their homes.

Ibn al-Mundhir (may Allaah have mercy on him) says in al-Ijmaa’ (no. 52):

They are unanimously agreed that Jumu’ah is not obligatory for women. End quote.

The evidence for that is the hadeeth of Taariq ibn Shihaab (may Allaah be pleased with him) according to which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Jumu’ah is a duty that is required of every Muslim in congregation, except four: a slave, a woman, a child or one who is sick.” Narrated by Abu Dawood 91067). Al-Nawawi said in al-Majmoo’ (4/482): its isnaad is saheeh according to the conditions of the two Shaykhs (al-Bukhaari and Muslim). Ibn Rajab said in Fath al-Baari (5/327): its isnaad is saheeh. Ibn Katheer said in Irshaad al-Faqeeh (1/190): its isnaad is jayyid. It was also classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’ (3111).

The reason why Jumu’ah is not obligatory for women is that sharee’ah does not encourage women to attend places where men gather, because of the negative consequences to which that may lead, as happens nowadays in many workplaces where men and women mix. See also Badaa’i’ al-Sanaa’i’ (1/258).

If a woman adheres to the shar’i conditions for her going out to the mosque, such as not wearing adornments and perfume, then there is nothing wrong with her attending Jumu’ah prayers in the mosque and praying two rak’ahs behind the imam, in which case she does not need to pray Zuhr.

Ibn al-Mundhir (may Allaah have mercy on him) said in al-Ijmaa’ (no. 52, 53):

They are unanimously agreed that if women join the imam and pray with him, that is sufficient for them. End quote.

Ibn Qudaamah (may Allaah have mercy on him) said in al-Mughni (2/88):

But if she prays Jumu’ah it is valid, because for women to pray in congregation is valid, as the women used to pray with the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) in congregation. End quote.

With regard to praying Jumu’ah in the home on one’s own, this is not valid for either a man or a woman, because Jumu’ah prayer is only valid when done in congregation, as stated in the hadeeth of the Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) quoted above: “Jumu’ah is a duty that is required of every Muslim in congregation.”

If a group wanted to pray Jumu’ah in the house, this is also not valid, because Jumu’ah prayer is prescribed in order for the Muslims to gather together in one place for prayer and to listen to the khutbah and benefit from it. Hence it is not permissible for there to be numerous Jumu’ah prayers in one city unless there is a need for that, such as if the city is very large or there is no jaami’ mosque that can hold all the people.

Based on this, if you do not go to the mosque to pray Jumu’ah, then you should pray Zuhr at home.

It says in Fataawa al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah (7/337):

If a woman prays Jumu’ah with the imam, that is sufficient and she does not have to pray Zuhr; it is not permissible for her to pray Zuhr that day. But if she prays on her own then she can only pray Zuhr, and she cannot pray Jumu’ah. End quote.

It is better for a woman to pray Zuhr in her house, because of the general meaning of the words of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): “Do not prevent your women from going to the mosques, although their houses are better for them.” Narrated by Abu Dawood (567); classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood.

If she wants to go to Jumu’ah, then she has to avoid perfume and adornments, and not crowd together with men in the streets.

And Allaah knows best.


Islam Q&A

Salamat Dok: Ikaw at ang iyong vitamins

Kayo ba’y umiinom ng vitamins? Ang mga vitamins at minerals na kailangan ng katawan ay nakukuha natin sa mga pagkain araw-araw lalung-lalo na sa gulay, isda at prutas. Nakukuha rin natin ito sa mga supplements na mabibili sa botika. Maaaring nagtatanong ang ilan sa inyo kung kailangan ba talaga ito? Narito ang ilang practical tips mula kay Dr. Willie Ong kung bakit kailangang uminom ng vitamins?

Maraming nakakatakot na sakit ang naglalabasan sa ating paligid. May swine flu, epidemya, tu¬ber¬culosis, trangkaso, perwisyong ubo, at marami pang iba. Para malabanan ang sakit, kailangan ma-lakas ang resistensya ng katawan. Kumain ng tama, matulog ng 7-8 oras, magbawas sa stress at uminom din ng multivitamin.
Kulang sa bitamina ang pagkain ng Pinoy. Kara-mihan sa atin ay matipid kung kumain. Isang ulam lang at 2 platong kanin para mabusog. Eh, anong sustansya ba ang mayroon iyan? Ang kailangan ng katawan mo ay sari-saring pagkain tulad ng 1 platong kanin, isang gulay at konting isda o karne. Dagdagan mo pa ng isang saging o dalandan. Iyan ang kumpleto sa bitamina at pampalakas ng katawan.
Maraming stress sa ating buhay. Ang stress ay nakakaedad sa katawan. Kaya magandang uminom ng vitamin, lalo na ang may vitamin B para malabanan ang stress. Tumutulong ang bitamina sa paghilom ng nasisi-rang selula sa ating katawan

Maraming klaseng vitamins. Iba-ibang hugis, kulay at lalagyan. Narito ang ilan sa mga iniinom natin at mga dapat tandaan tungkol dito:

Calcium

- Mas naa-absorb o nagagamit ito ng katawan kung iinumin sa gabi
- Nakatutulong itong mapaganda ang pagtulog sa gabi.
- Mas epektibo kung 500 milligrams lamang. Kung 1000 ang nabili, hatiin sa dalawa.
- Maaaring magkaroon ng interaksyon ang calcium sa antibiotics, bisphosphonates at mga gamot sa altapresyon. Inumin ang calcium ilang oras bago o pagkatapos ng ibang pang gamot.

Vitamins A, D, E at K

- Mas magandng isabay sa pagkain para sa mas magandang epekto sa katawan

Vitamin C

- Ilang oras lamang itong nagtatagal sa daluyan ng dugo. Para sa mas magandang resulta, inumin kada 3 oras o kaya’y kada matapos kumain.
- Huwag inumin bago matulog. Isa itong stimulant at maaaring hindi kayo makatulog.

Fiber

- Kailangan ng katawan sa umaga pagkagising para malinis at mawalis ang laman ng bituka bago pa ito mabarahan ng bagong pagkain.

Rekomendado ni Dok

Sa panayam ng isang TV show kay Dr. Andrew Weil, Amerikanong author at isa sa mga nagsusulong ng Integrative Medicine, inirerekomenda niya sa babae’t lalaki edad 18 pataas ang tinatawag na ‘daily antioxidant regimen” na kinabibilangan ng:

200mg Vitamin C
400 hanggang 800 IU natural Vitamin E
200mcg Selenium
15,000 hanggang 20, 000 IU Mixed Carotenoids
30 hanggang 100mg Coenzyme Q10

Dagdag pa ni Dr. Weil, ang mga nabanggit na vitamins ay mas magbibigay ng magandang resulta sa katawan kung sasabayan ng:

- Paglalakad araw-araw
- Pagkaing mayaman sa antioxidant at omega 3 fatty acids
- Pag-iwas sa paninigarilyo at second hand smoke
- Breathing exercises, yoga, meditation at iba pang relaxation

-- with reports from Otek Galauran, Segment: Medicine 101, aired November 27, 2011

Sunnah of Sleeping

1. Do Miswaaq Before Going Sleep
2. Sleeping With Wudhu Is A Sunnah
3. Shake Your Blanket
4. Recite The Sleeping DUA -Allahumma Bismika Amutu Wa
... Ahya
5. Don't Sleep On Your Stomach ,
6. Sleep On Your Right Side With Your Right Hand On Your Cheek
7. Recite Surah Al-Fatiha, Ayat-ul-Kursi, Surat Al-Ikhlas, Surat Al-
Falaq, Surat Al-Naas: 3 Times -
8. SubhanAllah 33 Times, Alhamdulillah 33 Times, Allahu Akbar 34
Times
9. Recite Darood Shareef
10. Try To Wake Up Early For Tahajjud
11. Don't Forget To Set Your Alarm For Fajr Salah
Always Remember - Salah Is BetterThan Sleep♥

Halamang gamot

Kung nais ang natural at alternatibong paraan, huwag nang lumayo pa. Nasa bakuran n’yo lang ang remedyo. Narito ang mga halamang gamot na rekomendado ng kilalang Herbalist na si Arnold Pesit:

ARATILES

- Mainam sa pagtatae at dysentery o pagduming may kasamang dugo
- Pakuluan ang ilang dahon at inumin bilang tsaa 3 beses 1 araw

LUYA

- Makakatulong para maibsan ang pagtatae, lagnat, sipon at ubo
- Dikdikin at pakuluan ang katamgtamang dami ng dahon
- Inumin bilang tsaa 3 beses 1 araw

BALBAS PUSA

- Mahusay sa gout o pananakit ng kasu-kasuan, lalo na kung mataas ang uric acid dala ng sobrang pagkain ng lamang-loob
- Mainam rin ito sakit sa bato at pantog
- Ilagay ang katamtamang dami ng dahon sa kumukulong tubig
- Inumin bilang tsaa 3 beses 1 araw

LUYANG DILAW

- Mabisa ito kapag naparami ang kinaing matataba o malalangis
- Pampababa ng cholesterol
- Ilaga ang isang dakot ng hiniwa-hiwang luyang dilaw sa 3 basong tubig
- Pakuluan sa katamtamang apoy ng 5 minuto
- Inumin bilang tsaa 3 hanggang 5 tasa sa isang araw

LAGUNDI

- Mabuti sa sipon, trangkaso, hika at lagnat
- Pakuluan ang katamtamang dami ng dahon
-Inumin bilang tsaa 3 hanggang 5 tasa sa isang raw

BAYABAS

- Mabisa sa pagtatae, sakit ng tiyan at pagduming may halong dugo (dysentery)
- Ibabad ang mga dahon sa mainit na tubig
- Inumin bilang tsaa 3 beses 1 araw

TSAANG GUBAT

- Mabisa sa empatso, nasobrahan ng kain, pagtatae at dysentery
- Pakuluan sa mahinang apoy ang 1 dakot na dahon nang 5 minuto
- Inumin bilang tsaa 3 beses 1 araw

Paalala lang, ang mga nabanggit na halamang gamot ay pang-ayuda o pangunang lunas lamang. Sakaling ang inyong nararamdaman ay mahigit nang 3 araw, huwag mag-atubiling komunsulta sa doktor. Kung magkaroon ng kakaibang reaksyon sa katawan ang mga nabanggit, itigil ang paggamit. -- with reports from Rea Tiama and Raquel Tagle, Segment: May Remedyo Dyan, December 25, 2011

Ashura

What is Ashura ?
Ashura (عاشوراء transliteration: ‘Āshūrā’, Ashura, Ashoura, and other spellings) It is on the 10th day of Muharram in the Islamic calendar and marks the climax of the Remembrance of Muharram but not the Islamic month. It is also called Yaumu-l ‘Ashurah, or simply Ashura meaning, ‘the tenth day’.
It is well-known because of historical significance and mourning for the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Islamic prophet Muhammad at the Battle of Karbala in the year 61 AH (AD 680). It is a day of speeches, public processions, and great grief. Men and women chant and weep, mourning Husayn, his family, and his followers. Speeches emphasize the importance of the values for which Husayn sacrificed himself, his family, and his followers. For centuries Shi’a pilgrims flocked here during Muharram, a practice which was severely limited under the regime of Saddam Hussein

Muharram

Muharram (Arabic: محرم) It is the first month of the Islamic calendar. Instead of joyous celebration, Muslims mark the beginning of the New Year by taking up the black attire of sorrow and participate in mourning gatherings in which the sacrifices of Husayn and his companions are commemorated.It is one of the four months of the year in which fighting is prohibited. Since the Islamic calendar is lunar, Muharram moves from year to year when compared with the Gregorian calendar.
Muharram is so called because it was unlawful to fight during this month; the word is derived from the word ‘haram’ meaning forbidden. It is held to be the most sacred of all the months, excluding Ramadan.It is the same month when Husayn, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, was brutally massacred in Karbala alongside his family and friends in the year 680 CE/61 AH.

Their martyrdom is a sad day for all Muslims, especially the Shi’a, who hold mourning ceremonies to recall the righteous virtues for which the valiant martyrs stood and the grave calamities that they thus had to bear. The commemoration of this brutal massacre (Battle of Karbala) begins on the first day of Muharram and reaches its climax on the 10th of Muharram, the day of the battle, known as Ashurah and continues for 40 days or 69 days.

History of Eid'ul Adha

Eid- ul- Adha is one of the most important Islamic holiday of the year.Eid-ul-Adha marks the end of Hajj, the sacred pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca. The hajj to Mecca is a once-in-a-lifetime obligation upon male and female adults whose health and means permit it, or, in the words of the Qur'an, upon "those who can make their way there." The history of Eid-ul-Adha can be traced back to the story which states that Abraham was instructed by Allah, in a dream, to raise the foundations of Kaaba,the most sacred shrine in Mecca. Muslims believe that even after undergoing a lot of trials and tribulations on his way to Mecca, God revealed in a dream to Abraham to sacrifice his son Isma’il.Abrahim and Isma’il set off to Mina for the sacrifice. As they went, the devil attempted to lead Abraham astray by disobeying God and not to sacrifice his beloved son. But Abraham remained unfaltered in his decision and true to God, and drove the devil away. As Abraham prepared to kill his son, God stopped him and gave him a sheep to sacrifice instead. Popularly known as the Festival of Sacrifice, this Muslim holiday Eid-ul-Adha commemorates Prophet Abraham’s unselfish act of sacrificing(Qurbani) his own son to the One God, Allah. The festival reminds everyone of the mercy and benefits bestowed upon mankind by Allah.

Muslims commemorate this outstanding act of sacrifice by themselves slaughtering an animal such as a sheep, camel, or a goat. When this is done, 1/3 of the meat goes to the needy people, 1/3 is given to neighbors and friends, and 1/3 stays with your family. People who are away from the holy pilgrimage, Hajj, also carry out this traditional sacrifice. This act also reminds the pilgrim to share worldly goods with those who are less fortunate, and serves as an offer of thanksgiving to God. People visit each other's homes and partake in festive meals with special dishes, beverages, and desserts. Children receive gifts and sweets on this happy occasion.

Eid ul-Adha occurs on the tenth day of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijja.But the date of Eid-ul-Adha depends on the visibility of the moon each year.
Read more at http://www.theholidayspot.com/eid_ul_adha/history.htm#WswAjx6my3jEYh1M.99

Eid al-Adha

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). This year 2012, Eid al-Adha will begin on October 17th. October 26th will be Eid'ul Adha.

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.

Moonsighting for Dhul-Hijjah 1433

The official decision and announcement of the High Judiciary Council (HJC) of Saudi Arabia regarding the beginning of Dhul-Hijjah is that 1st of Dhul-Hijjah will be on Wednesday 17 October 2012, and the Muslims performing Hajj will be in 'Arafah on Thursday 25 October 2012 (9 Dhul-Hijjah 1433), and the Muslim Ummah shall be celebrating 'Eid al-Adhaa on Friday 26 October 2012, (10 Dhul-Hijjah 1433), insha-Allah.

12 Foods Which Beloved Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه واله وسلم) Liked And Their Benefits From Tib Al-Nabwi.

1. Barley ( جو jau):
Good in fever, while use in a soup form.

2. Dates ( کھجور ):
The Prophet (صلى الله عليه واله وسلم) said that a house without dates has no food. It should also be eaten at the time of childbirth.

3. Figs ( انجير ):
It is a fruit from paradise and a cure for piles.

4. Grapes ( انگور ):
The Prophet (صلى الله عليه واله وسلم) ) was very fond of grapes – it purifies the blood, provides vigour and health, strengthens the kidneys and clears the bowels.

5. Honey ( شہد ):
Considered the best remedy for diarrhoea when mixed in hot water. It is the food of foods, drink of drinks and drug of drugs. It is used for creating appetite, strengthening the stomach, eliminating phlegm; as a meat preservative, hair conditioner, eye soother and mouthwash. It is extremely beneficial in the morning in warm water.

6. Melon ( تربوز - خربوزا - سردا ):
The Prophet (صلى الله عليه واله وسلم) said: ‘None of your women who are pregnant and eat of water melon will fail to produce off spring that is good in countenance

7. Milk:
The Prophet(صلى الله عليه واله وسلم) said that milk wipes away heat from the heart just as the finger wipes away sweat from the brow. It strengthens the back, improved the brain, renews vision and drives away forgetfulness.

8. Mushroom ( کھمبي ):
The Prophet (صلى الله عليه واله وسلم) said that mushroom is a good cure for the eyes; it also serves as a form of birth control and arrests paralysis.

9. Olive Oil ( زيتون )
Excellent treatment for skin and hair, delays old age, and treats inflammation of the stomach.

10. Pomegranate ( انار ):
The Prophet (صلى الله عليه واله وسلم) said it cleanses you of Satan and evil aspirations for 40 days.

11. Vinegar ( سرکہ ):
A food Prophet Muhammad (SAW) used to eat with olive oil.

12. Water ( پاني ):
The Prophet (صلى الله عليه واله وسلم) said the best drink in this world is water, when you are thirsty drink it by sips and not gulps, gulping produces sickness of the liver.

Healing Powers of Al-Asma al-Husna

It has been discovered by Doctor Ibrahim Karim (Biologist) that Asma ul Husna, most beautiful names of Allah (SWT) have healing power to a large number of diseases.

He used precision methods in the measurement of energy within the human body and discovered that every one of the names of Allah (SWT) stimulates energy in the immune system of the human body to work efficiently in a certain ideal human body.

He discovered that the mere mention (reciting) of most beautiful names of Allah (SWT) leads to improvement in the tracks Bio Energy within the human body, and after a 3-years of research Doctor Ibrahim Karim reached to the following:

01. Ear - As Sami (The all Hearing)
02. Bone - Al Nafi (The creator of good)
03. Backbone - Al Jabbar (The Compeller)
04. Knee - Al Ra uf (The Clement)
05. Hair - Al Badi (The Originator)
06. Heart - Al Nur (The Light)
07. Muscles - Al Qawi (The All Strength)
08. Heart Waves - Al Wahab (The giver of All)
09. Heart Muscle - Al Razaqq (The Sustainer)
10. Nerve - Al Mughni (The Enricher)
11. Artery - Al Jabbar (The Compeller)
12. Stomach - Al Razaqq (The Sustainer)
13. Cancer - Al Jalil (The Mighty)
14. Thyroid - Al Jabbar (The Compeller)
15. Thigh- Al Rafi (The Exalter)
16. Migraine - Al Ghani (The Rich One)
17. Eye Arteries - Al Muta ali (The Supreme One)
18. Kidney - Al Hayy (The Ever Living One)
19. Colon - Al Ra uf (The Clement)
20. Intestine - Al Razzaq (The Sustainer)
21. Liver - Al Nafi (The creator of good)
22. Pancreas - Al Bari (The Make of Order)
23. Fatty Sacks - Al Nafi (The creator of good)
24. Womb - Al Khaliq (The Creator)
25. Bladder - Al Hadi (The Guide)
26. Rheumatism - Al Muhaymin (The Guardian)
27. Prostat - Al Rashid (The Righteous Teacher)
28. Nerves of the Eye - Al Zahir (The Manifest One)
29. Pineal Gland - Al Hadi (The Guide)
30. Blood Pressure - Al Khafed (The Abaser)
31. Lung - Al Razzaq (The Sustainer)
32. Thymus Gland - Al Qawi (The All Strength)
33. Gland above the Kidney - Al Bari (The Make of Order)
34. Hair Peel - Al Jalil (The Mighty)
35. The Nasal Cavities - (Al Latif, Al Ghani, Al Raheem)
36. Eye - (Al Nur, Al Basir, Al Wahab)

Method of treatment: Lay your hands on the place of pain and praise Allah (SWT) names above according to your disease until the pain heals or cure away Insha Allah.

Note: Please keep in mind whatever takes place in result of reciting the names of Allah (SWT) depends on the will of Allah, the Almighty.

Asma al-Husna: 99 Beautiful names of Allah (SWT)

Here is a list of most beautiful names of Allah (SWT) or 99 names of Allah (SWT) used in Islam with their meanings in English. "The most beautiful names belong to Allah: so call on him by them." (Glorious Qur'an 7:180)

He is Allah the Creator, the Maker, the Fashioner; His are the most excellent names; whatever is in the heavens and the earth declares His glory; and He is the Mighty, the Wise. (Glorious Qur'an 59:24)

Those who believe, and whose hearts find satisfaction in the remembrance of Allah: for without doubt in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find satisfaction. (Glorious Qur'an 13:28)
Al-Quddus Al-Malik Ar-Raheem/Ar-Rahim Ar-Rahman
Al-Aziz Al-Muhaymin Al-Mu'min As-Salam
Al-Bari Al-Khaliq Al-Mutakabbir Al-Jabbar
Al-Wahhab Al-Qahhar Al-Ghaffar Al-Musawwir
Al-Qabiz Al-Aleem/Al-Alim Al-Fattah Ar-Razzaq
Al-Muizz Ar-Rafi Al-Khafiz Al-Basit
Al-Hakam Al-Basir As-Sami Al-Muzill
Al-Haleem/Al-Halim Al-Khabeer/Al-Khabir Al-Lateef/Al-Latif Al-Adl
Al-Ali As-Shakur Al-Ghafoor/Al-Ghafur Al-Adheem/Al-Azim
Al-Haseeb Al-Muqeet/Al-Muqit Al-Hafeedh/Al-Hafiz Al-Kabeer/Al-Kabir
Al-Mujeeb/Al-Mujib Ar-Raqeeb/Ar-Raqib Al-Kareem/Al-Karim Al-Jaleel/Al-Jalil
Al-Majeed Al-Wadud Al-Hakeem Al-Wasi
Al-Wakeel/Al-Wakil Al-Haqq Ash-Shaheed Al-Baaith/Al-Ba'ith
Al-Hameed Al-Wali Al-Mateen Al-Qawi
Al-Muhyi Al-Mueed/Al-Mu'id Al-Mubdi Al-Muhsi
Al-Wajid Al-Qayyum Al-Hai/Al-Hayee Al-Mumeet/Al-Mumit
As-Samad Al-Ahad Al-Wahid Al-Majid
Al-Muakhkhir Al-Muqaddim Al-Muqtadir Al-Qadir
Al-Batin Adh-Dhaahir/Az-Zahir Al-Aakhir Al-Awwal
At-Tawwab Al-Barr Al-Muta'ali Al-Wali
Malik-ul-Mulk Ar-Rauf/Ar-Raoof Al-Afuw Al-Muntaqim
Al-Ghani Al-Jaamay Al-Muqsit Dhul-Jalali wal Ikram
An-Naafay Adh-Dhaar/Ad-Dhaarr Al-Maanay Al-Mughni
Al-Baqi Al-Badei Al-Haadi An-Nur/An-Noor
Allah (SWT) As-Sabur/As-Saboor Ar-Rasheed Al-Waarith/Al-Waris

11th Month in the Islamic Calendar : Dhul Qa'dah

It is a month amongst the months of Hajj. It is the first among the four sacred months (Ash'hur al Harum).

Literal Meaning: Qa'dah means to rest. The Arabs used to stop fighting when this month set in and stayed home. This is from among the sacred months.

The Holy month of Shawwal

Meaning:

Uplift/breakage, as before Islam, Arabs believed that any marriage held in Shawwal would always turn out to be unsuccessful. Taken from the word "shala" which means "when the female camel gets pregnant". When this name was given, the female camels used to get pregnant during this time of the year.

Blessings:

The first day of Shawwal is Eid-Ul-Fitr, the day of festival and when all sins are forgiven as a reward for fasting and prayers in the month of Ramadan.

Its Sunnah ( Tradition of Holy Prophet ) to fast for six days in Shawwal, as narrated in the following Hadeeth by Abu Ayyub Ansaru (R.A) that the Holy Prophet has said, "If one throughout his life keeps the fasts of Ramadan and keeps six consecutive fasts in Shawwal it will be as though he has kept a whole life time of fasts, and if one fast for six consecutive days in Shawwal it will be as though he has fasted all year round."
(Muslim)

Events:

1. Hadhrat Aa'ishah Siddiqah (R.A) was born in Shawwal, 4 years after Prophethood and 9 years before Hijrah.
2. Hadhrat Aa'ishah Siddiqah (R.A.) was married to Holy Prophet in Shawwal, 10 years after Prophethood which is 3 years before Hijrah.

3. The fight between Banu Qaynaqaa took place between the battle of Badr and Uhud, Shawwal 2 A.H. after Hijrah.

4. The battle of Uhud also took place in Shawwaal, three years after Hijrah.
5. Hadhrat Hussain (R.A) Holy Prophet's grandson (son of Hadhrat Fatima R.A.) was born in the month of Shawwaal 4 years after Hijrah.
6. The Holy Prophet married Hadhrat Umme Salamah (R.A.) in Shawwal in the 4 year after Hijrah.
7. Hadhrat Aa'ishah Siddiqah's (R.A) mother passed away in year 5 A.H.
8. The Holy Prophet's uncle Abu Talib departed from this world in the middle of Shawwal in the year 5 A.H.
9. Imam Bukhari (R.A.) was born on a Friday of Shawwaal in the year 194 A.H.

FASTING 6 DAYS OF SHAWWAL

Abu Ayyoob (may Allaah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever fasts Ramadhan and follows it with six days of Shawwaal, it will be as if he fasted for a lifetime.” [Narrated by Ahmad, 5/417; Muslim, 2/822; Abu Dawood, 2433; al-Tirmidhi, 1164].

Eid Mubarak! ♥♥♥

Salam to all my muslim brothers and sisters around the world. Wish you all happiness and prosperity on this HUGE Eid'ul Fitr celebration. EID MUBARAK! ♥♥♥

How to perform Tahajjud prayer

Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the World; and blessings and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad and upon all his Family and Companions.

There is no difference between Tahajjud and Qiyam al-lail (the late night prayer). If the prayer is performed after one had slept then it is called Tahajjud otherwise it is called Qiyam-al-lail.
There are many evidences in Qur'an and Sunnah proving the excellence and merits of Tahajjud.
Allah Says (interpretation of meaning): {Is one who is obedient to Allah, prostrating himself or standing (in prayer) during the hours of the night, fearing the Hereafter and hoping for the Mercy of his Lord (like one who disbelieves)? Say: "Are those who know equal to those who know not?" It is only men of understanding who will remember (i.e. get a lesson from Allah's Signs and Verses).}[39:9]. Allah Praises those who perform the late night prayers "Their sides forsake their beds, to invoke their Lord in fear and hope, and they spend (in charity in Allah's Cause) out of what We have bestowed on them. No person knows what is kept hidden for them of joy as a reward for what they used to do.}[32:16-17].
Imam Tirmizi narrates from Abdullah Ibn Salaam that "When the Prophet (Peace and blessing be upon him) came to Madinah "When the Prophet (Sallallahu Alehi Wasallam) came to Madinah, the people gathered around him and I was one of them. I looked at his face and understood that it was not the face of a liar. The first words I heard him say were: 'O people, spread the salutations, feed the people, keep the ties of kinship, and pray during the night while the others are sleeping and you will enter paradise in peace."' This is related by al-Hakim, Ibn Majah, and at-Tirmidhi who calls it Hasan Sahih.
The Prophet said: "The best prayer after the obligatory prayers is the prayer which is performed in the last part of the night". [Reported by Imam Muslim]
Therefore, the night prayer is a confirmed Sunnah, its rule does not change even in the month of Ramadhan. However, performing it during Ramadhan is better than during other months.
The time of Tahajjud (Qiyam al-lail) starts after obligatory prayer of Isha and extends till dawn. There is no specific time for this prayer so it may be performed at any time of night but the preferred time is the last third of the night.
There is no specific number of Rakah of this night prayer but the Prophet never prayed more than thirteen Rakah during Ramadhan or any other time.
The Sunnah is to be performed in sets of two Rakah. It is recommended to shorten the first two Rakah making the remaining Rakah longer. And then one should end it with one Rakah of Witr. One may also make Dua Qunoot in Witr if he likes.
The person who does not memorize much Qur'an may recite many short Surahs in one Rakah or he may read looking in the Mus-haf too.
Allah knows best.

Tahajjud Prayer - Salatul layl -Night Prayer

TIME : The time for praying Salatul-Layl is from midnight (midnight is reckoned as the time which is exactly half the time between sunset and the actual dawn) to the time of Adhan for Fajr prayers. However, it can be prayed at anytime after Isha prayers but it is better to pray during the last part of the night near to the time of Fajr prayers. If it is not possible to pray after midnight or before Fajr, then it can be recited in the morning or any part of the day with the niyyah (intention) of Qadha. It is better to recite with the niyyah of Qadha during the day time than to pray in the early part of the night.



Salatul-Layl is made up of Eleven Rak’ats.
A. The first 8(eight) Rak’ats are prayed as normal in pairs of two Rak’ats each with the niyyah of Nawafilatul-Layl.

B. The next 2 (two) Rak’ats are prayed with the Niyyah of 'Salatul Shaf’a'.

C. The remaining 1(one) Rak’at is prayed (as below)with the Niyyah of 'Salatul Witr.'

The Holy Month of Ramadhan

Ramadhan is the name of the ninth month of the Islamic Calendar and it is a holy month best known as the month of fasting, sawm, and the month in which the Qur'an was revealed. This year the lunar month of Ramadhan begins around Saturday 21 July 2012 and ends a month later around Saturday 18 August 2012. The end of the holy month of Ramadhan is marked by a celebration known as Eid al-Fitr.

"The Holy Prophet Muhammed (SAW) said:
O' People! Surely, the month of God has approached you. The month which, in the eyes of Allah, is the most virtuous of months. Its days are the best of days and its nights, the best of the nights and its moments, the best of moments."

The holy month of Ramadhan is often used as a month in which the believer renews and increases their spiritual connection with God by praying more recommended prayers, reciting more verses of the Qur'an, giving more charity and refraining from doing sins and seeking repentance for past sins. But the month of Ramadhan is different from the other holy months because it is a month where fasting is a requirement.

"O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint (taqwa)" [The Qur'an 2:183]

Fasting is refraining from food, drink and sexual activity during day-light hours, from dawn till dusk. Fasting during this month is mandatory for adults but not for youngsters, the aged, the sick, the frail, people who are travelling, women who are pregnant, nursing their newborn child or in their menses. The purpose of fasting is not hardship but spiritual development, teaching perseverance, self-control and self-discipline. Not observing the fast or intentionally breaking the fast before sun-down is considered a big sin.

Each day during the month of Ramadhan, when the sun goes down, a Muslim can then stop fasting. This is often termed "breaking the fast" or iftar in Arabic. Muslims often visit family and friends during the month but they also try to attend their local mosque which serves a meal (futoor) as part of its nightly program, which often includes recitation from the holy Qur'an, mandatory prayers (maghrib and 'ishaa) that are recited after sun-down, the main meal, maybe a lecture or lessons in the rules of Islam, maybe a supplication or two and recommended prayers.

After finishing for the night, people go home and have some food and drink water - observe the suhoor - during the night before the sun comes up again, in preparation for the next day of fasting. This is highly recommended and it makes fasting easier.

The month of Ramadhan is the most popular month of the year and Muslims look forward to it as it brings together family, friends and the community and they can worship and observe the tenants of their religion together. Furthermore, this month God increases the virtues (thawab) of acts of worship and good deeds so a good deed done in this month has greater weight than the same one done in other months and Muslims are advised to take this opportunity and blessing.

"The Holy Prophet Muhammed (SAW) said:
This month of yours (Ramadhan) is unlike the other months. Surely, when it approaches you (begins), it does so with blessings and mercy and when it turns away from you (ends), it does so with forgiveness of sins. This is a month in which good deeds are multiplied and acts of goodness are accepted."

Muslims use this month as a month to change and improve themselves in, turn over a new leaf and become better Muslims and better people for the rest of the year and the rest of their lives. Each Ramadhan is taken as an opportunity to increase one's spiritual level with them aim of self purification and the final goal of attaining a high station in heaven in the hereafter.