Taraweeh Salaah – Night 11

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 11

By Sheikh Abdul Hamid Lachporia – Canada

In the Name of Almighty Allah Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Tonight we complete the remaining half of Wa’ma Ubarri -u-nafsee (JUZ 13) and three quarters of Rubama Yawadul Ladhi’naa (JUZ 14). These Surahs cover two thirds of Surah Ar-Rad, Surah Ebrahim, Surah Hijr and a quarter of Surah An-Nahl.

SURAH AR-RAD:
The mockery of Allah’s Messengers is an old game of the world. But Allah’s Truth will come to its own in good time. The end of the Righteous is their Home of Bliss, and they rejoice in the revelations they receive. The Messengers of Allah take their due share in the life of the world; they win through by Allah’s Grace against all the plots of the world. Their witness is from Allah, through His revelation.

SURAH EBRAHIM:
The special subject matter of this Surah is a continuation of the concluding portion of the last Surah, which explained how Allah’s revelation gains ground in spite of selfish men’s opposition. Here illustrations are given from the story of Nabee Moosa and Nabee Ebrahim Alayhim Salaam and Nabee Ebrahim’s prayer for Makkah forms the core of this Surah. Revelation leads man from darkness to light. It comes to each nation in its own language and for its own special circumstances. So was it with Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam and other Prophets Alayhim Salaam. There was a conflict of evil with good, but evil was destroyed. Why will men not receive Allah’s Grace? Why will they choose to go astray? Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam prayed to be saved from infidelity for himself and for his posterity, and he prayed for Makkah, the city of the new revelation through Arabia. Good and evil will find their proper retribution, and Allah’s Plan of Unity will prevail. It is evil that will be wiped out for Allah’s Truth is a goodly tree, firmly established on its roots, stretching its branches high and wide, and bearing good fruit at all times.

SURAH HIJR:
The special subject matter of this Surah is the protection of Allah’s Revelation and Allah’s Truth. Evil arose from Pride and warping of man’s will, but Allah’s Mercy is the antidote, as was proven in the case of Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam and Nabee Lut Alayhis Salaam, and might have been proved by the people of the Aykah and Hijr if they had only attended to Allah’s “Signs”. The Qur’an, beginning with the “Seven Oft Repeated Verses” is the precious vehicle for the Praises of Allah. Allah’s Truth makes all things clear, and He will guard it. But His Signs are not for those who mock. Who fails to see the Majesty, the Beauty, the Order, and the Harmony blazoned in His Creation, and His Goodness to all His creatures, in the heavens and on earth? With Him are the sources of all things, and He doth freely give His gifts in due measure. He holds the Keys of Life and Death, and He will remain when all else passes away.

SURAH AL-NAHL:
Chronologically this Surah, like the six which preceded it, belongs to the late Makkan period except perhaps verse 110 and some of the verses that follow. But the chronology has no significance. In subject matter it sums up, from a new point of view, the arguments on the great questions of Allah’s dealings with man. His Self-revelation to man, and how the Messengers and the Message are writ large in every phrase of Allah’s creation and the life of man. The new point of view is that Nature points to Nature’s God. Everything in Creation proclaims the Glory of Allah. To man is given dominion over Nature, that man may recognize Allah’s Unity and Allah’s Truth. Man should never lose sight of his goal, which is the good, or dispute with the great Teachers who are sent to all peoples, to bring about Unity; all creatures serve Allah.

Allah’s favours and man’s ingratitude recounted, His Signs in the rain bearing clouds, the cattle that give milk, the bee that produces honey, the wonderful relations of family and social life, and the refinements and comforts of civilisation. The Messengers of Truth will bear witness against those who reject the Truth. Allah will judge us according to our faith and deeds. The Qur’an is true: it guides and gives glad tidings. Believe, and make the most of life in all things good and lawful. Follow the example of Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam: be true in Faith and righteousness and do good.

Courtesy: www.everymuslim.net

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 10

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 10

By Sheikh Abdul Hamid Lachporia – Canada

In the Name of Almighty Allah Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Tonight’s Tarawee consists of the balance [three quarters] of Wa ma min Dhab’bateen (JUZ 12) and half of Wa’ma Ubarri -u-nafsee (JUZ 13). The Surahs that will be covered are the remaining half of Surah Hud, Yusuf and a third of Surah Ar-Ra’d.

SURAH HUD:
Awful were the fates of the ‘Ad and Thamud, two mighty people of ancient Arabia. They rejected Almighty Allah and His Message and carried on in their evil ways. The ‘Ad in their superstitions and arrogance, and the Thamud in their entrenched selfishness, denying to others the gifts of Almighty Allah’s spacious earth! When the Mala’eeka, on a mission to Sodom and Gomorrah, Cities of the Plain, passed by Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam, he entertained them and received the Good News from them of the line of prophets to spring from his loins, he tried to intercede for the two wicked cities of sin and evil. These cities were steeped in sin and had past all hopes of repentance. Hazrat Lut Alayhis Salaam preached to them but they flouted him and went to their fate, as did Midian, the people of Nabee Shu’ayb Alayhis Salaam who destroyed their commerce by fraudulent dealings and love of brute force. Marvellous are Allah’s Mercies, and strange are the ways of ungrateful men. How the arrogant Fir’aun (Pharaoh) misled his people in resisting Almighty Allah’s Message through Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam. Thus did they ruin themselves! It was they who wronged themselves: for Allah and His punishment are just: All men will be brought to the Seat of His Judgement.

SURAH YUSUF:
This Surah deals with the story of Nabee Yusuf Alayhis Salaam – and the 12 sons of Nabee Yaqoob Alayhis Salaam. This story is called one of “the most beautiful of stories” for three reasons: (1) It is the most detailed story in the Most Glorious Qur’an (2) It covers the trials and tribulations – the peaks and valleys, the ups and downs in human fortunes (3) it describes in detail with moral meanings, the attitudes and behaviour of people i.e. the great love of a father for his young son, the jealousy of the older half brothers, their plots, their aged father’s sorrow, the sale of their young brother into slavery to a merchant for a “miserable price”, sexual love, contrasted with purity, honesty, modesty, false charges, prison and interpretation of dreams, innocence raised to honour, the “sweet revenge of forgiveness and kindness, high matters dealing with the ruling of a country, constant remembrance of Allah combined with the beauty of piety and truth. The merchant took him to Egypt, where a high court official (‘Aziz) bought and adopted him. ‘Aziz’s wife tried without success to seduce Nabee Yusuf Alayhis Salaam. For refusing to succumb to her sexual advances she laid false charges against him and he was jailed.

The King had a dream, which Nabee Yusuf Alayhis Salaam successfully interpreted. The King was going to release him but he insisted that all Fithnah and false charges against him should be cleared. The King was impressed and made him his Chief Minister. His half brothers came to Egypt to buy corn because of the draught in Canaan. He treated them kindly without revealing his identity to them. He requested them to bring him his full brother Binyamin the youngest son. He detained Binyamin and then accused his half-brothers of their hatred and crime against him. He revealed his identity to them and forgave them all. He asked them to bring their father to Egypt where the entire settled down. Allah’s Name was glorified for Allah’s Truth lasts forever and His purpose will be fully revealed in the Aghirah.

SURAH AL RA’D:
This Surah deals with how Almighty Allah shows Himself to mankind. Despite all the wonderful Signs around us, why does man continue to disbelieve? Firstly, Allah reveals His Message through His creation and the laws ruling nature; He also reveals His Message by revelation. We witness life and death all around us. We are witness to the the trees and all vegetation dying in winter and coming back to life through Divine Providence in Spring. But the unbelievers ask: “When we are dust, shall we actually then be in a new creation?” They mock at the idea that Allah will punish them because they have not been punished for their evil deeds. They want to see the signs of His Power rather than His Mercy but they are too dumb and ignorant to know that Allah’s Power, Glory and Mercy can be seen in thunder and lightning. Allah is All-Knowing. Good will triumph and evil will be defeated.

Courtesy: www.everymuslim.net

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 9

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 9

By Sheikh Abdul Hamid Lachporia – Canada

In the Name of Almighty Allah Most Gracious, Most Merciful

The Tarawee for tonight commences from Yah’tha diroona Ilaykoom(Juz 11) up to and including a quarter of Wa ma min Dhab’bateen(Juz 12). The Surahs to be covered this evening Insha’Allah are: (1) The concluding quarter of Surah Al-Tawbah, Surah Yunus in its entirety and a quarter of Surah Hud.

SURAH AL-TAWBAH
The vanguard of Faith think nothing of self-sacrifice. Their reward is Almighty Allah’s Good Pleasure. Even those who do wrong but repent will obtain His Mercy: not so those who do persist in Unfaith, Hypocrisy, and Mischief. Allah’s Grace is free and abounding for the righteous. Even if they waver or fail. He will turn to them in Mercy if only they repent and come back unto Him. To be true in word and deed is to hold our selfish desires at bay, and follow Allah’s Call: in this is our fullest satisfaction and reward. But our striving should include study and teaching, for the Ummah’s benefit for Allah’s Message increases our Imaan and leads us to love Him and Trust Him – the Lord of the Throne of Glory Supreme.

SURAH YUNUS:
This Surah and the five that follow i.e. Surahs 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 are closely connected, and were revealed in the late Makkan period, as the great event of the Hijrah was gradually approaching. Surahs 8 and 9 were mainly concerned with the first questions that arose on the formation of the new and organised Community of Islam, in its conflict with those who wished to suppress or destroy it or use force to prevent its growth and the consolidation of its ideals. How does revelation work? What is the meaning of Divine Grace and its withdrawal? How do the Messengers of Allah (Alayhim Salaam) deliver their Message? How should we receive it?

SUMMARY:
The wonderful working of the Spirit through man by revelation seems like magic to men; yet they could find Signs and Messages from Him in the sun and the moon and the constantly varying yet regular phenomena of nature, from which men should take a lesson of constancy and Faith. All the goodness or beauty that man meets in the life around him proceeds from Almighty Allah, yet man is blind and will not understand. As all beings proceed from Allah, so will they return to Him, and He is ever true. Why then does man make untrue phantoms for himself instead of rejoicing in the good news which He sends? Allah revealed Himself through Hazrat Nuh (Noah) Alayhis Salaam but his people rejected him and perished. He spoke through Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam to Fir’aun (Pharaoh), but Fir’aun was stiff-necked and arrogant, and when he repented at all, it was too late. Everywhere want of faith causes people to perish. But the people of Nabee Yunus Alayhis Salaam repented, and Allah saved them by His wonderful Grace. So Allah will deliver the Believers. When the Truth comes from Allah, follow it and be patient, for Allah is the most Righteous of Judges.

SURAH HUD:
We discussed Allah’s Mercy in the last Surah. Emphasis is laid on His punishment for sin to show that true justice includes both Justice and Mercy for Almighty Allah is Most Merciful and Patient while man is ungrateful, loves falsehood and is dishonest. Nabee Nuh (Noah) Alayhis Salaam walked righteously and humbly as in the Sight of Allah. With unselfish love for his people he warned them and taught them. But they did flout and reject his message with scorn and insults. Allah gave him directions to build an ark against the impending Flood which was to purify the world from sin and unrighteousness. In it were saved Nabee Nuh Alayhis Salaam and those who believed. So were promised salvation and Allah’s Peace, and Blessings to the righteous evermore.

Courtesy: www.everymuslim.net

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 8

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 8

By Sheikh Abdul Hamid Lachporia – Canada

In the Name of Almighty Allah Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Tonight’s Tarawee consists of the remaining quarter of Qa-lal Mala-u(Juz 9) and the whole of Wa’lamu Annama(Juz 10). In this evening’s Tarawee we will Insha’Allah cover Surah Al Anfal and three quarters of Surah Al-Tawbah. In the previous introductions to the Surahs we have seen how each Surah is a step or gradation in the teaching of the Most Holy Qur’an. The first seven Surahs, comprising a little less than one third of the Holy Qur’an, form a gradation, sketching the early spiritual history of man and leading up to the formation of the new Muslim Ummah or Community of Rahmatul Liel Ala’meen. Now we begin another gradation, consolidating that Ummah and directing us as to various phases in our new collective life.

Tonight we have the lessons of the Battle of Badr enforced in their larger aspects: (1) the question of war booty; (2) the true virtues necessary for fighting the good fight; (3) victory against all odds; (4) clemency and consideration for one’s own and for others in the hour of victory. As regards booty taken in battle, the first point to note is that that should never be our aim in war. It is only an adventitious circumstance, a sort of windfall. Secondly, no soldier or troop has any inherrent right to it. A righteous war is a community affair, and any accessions resulting from it belongs to Allah, or community or Cause. Thirdly, certain equitable principles of division should be laid down to check human greed and selfishness. A fifth share goes to the Commander and he can use it at his discretion; for his expenses, and for the relief of the poor and suffering, the orphans and the widows. The remainder was always divided, according to our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam’s practice.

These principles are followed in the best modern practice of civilised nations. All acquisitions of war belong absolutely to the Sovereign as representing the commonwealth. In the distribution of booty not only the actual captors but also the “joint captors” and the “constructive captors” share. As regards the military virtues, which are the types of virtues throughout life, we are shown by an analysis of the incidents of Badr how against the greatest odds, Almighty Allah’s help will give victory if men are fighting not for themselves but for the Sacred Cause of Almighty Allah. Directions are given for the treatment of prisoners and for maintaining the solidarity of the Muslim Ummah. The date of this Surah is shortly after the Battle of Badr, which was fought on Friday the 17th of Ramadan in the second year of the Hijrah. Obedience and intelligent discipline, zeal, faith and gratitude to Almighty Allah, are the true passports to success and protection from the assaults of evil for evil will be piled up with evil and will be destroyed.

SURAH AL-TAWBAH:
Surah Al-Tawbah follows up the argument of the previous Surah. It was revealed seven years after the previous Surah. Surah Al-Tawbah is also the only Surah that begins without the prefixing of Bimillah. It was among the last Surahs to be revealed. Verses 1 to 29 show the State Policy of our Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam. which came into effect during the month of Shawwal in the ninth year of the Hijrah. Our Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam instructed Sayyidina Ali R.A. to announce it two months later during Hajj in order to give it the widest possible publicity. The remainder or Surah Al-Tawbah was revealed a little earlier during the month of Ramadan in the Ninth year after the Hijrah and also sums up the lessons of the Tabuk expedition which was undertaken during Summer of the same year. The Surah also deals with an important question on what must be done if the enemy breaks a peace treaty and is guilty of wrong-doing. Do not indulge in wrong-doing like the hypocrites. No help should be sought from them neither should we aid them for aid should only go to the poor and needy. Strive hard against the unbelievers because they are bound to reach a stage where they will not be forgiven by Almighty Allah. Shun all evil as unclean because evil goes against Truth and mocks everything that is Good.

Courtesy: www.everymuslim.com

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 7

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 7

By Sheikh Abdul Hamid Lachporia – Canada

In the Name of Almighty Allah Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Tonight’s Tarawee commences from the second half of Wallow Annana(Juz 8) and covers up to a third of Qa-lal Mala u(Juz 9). Tonight’s Tarawee covers Surah Al A’raf in its entirety. This Surah is closely related to the previous Surah in two respects (1) It was revealed during the same period, and (2) its argument is similar to the previous Surah. It pertains to the spiritual history of mankind from Nabee Adam Alayhis Salaam to our Beloved Nabee Muhammad Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam. It also highlights the accounts of various prophets Alayhim Salaam and brings to light the struggles of Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam.

An important lesson that is brought to light is “to learn from the past.” Divine revelation can and will forever assist us in this regard. The struggle between Good and Evil is illustrated by the story of Nabee Adam Alayhis Salaam and Iblis when he (Iblis) refused to bow down to Nabee Adam Alayhis Salaam as commanded by Almighty Allah Azza Wajjal. Iblis was full of pride because how could he bow down to something created from clay when he was created out of fire. He was overcome with jealousy because of the high status given to Nabee Adam Alayhis Salaam by Almighty Allah Exalted. Iblis proved his rebelliousness after tempting Nabee Adam Alayhis Salaam to commit a wrong deed. Iblis was banished and asked for and was granted respite by Almighty Allah till the Day of Kiyamah. Nabee Adam Alayhis Salaam begged for forgiveness and was forgiven for his wrongful deed.

The Power, the Goodness and the Glory of Almighty Allah Subhanahu Wata’ala are made manifest. We are told to adorn our lives with good deeds and to shun evil, to submit to Divine Justice and to be moderate in our eating habits etc. The reward, the peace, the happiness and contentment of the righteous servants are shown a picture of the life awaiting them in the Aghirah. The Majesty, the Goodness and the Power of Almighty Allah throughout the world is shown to us. Almighty Allah reminds us to shun all evil and to partake of all the good and wholesome things that He has created for our enjoyment.

We also told about Nabee Nuh (Noah) Alayhis Salaam and how he was rejected, ridiculed and taunted by his people and how they were ultimately destroyed by the great Flood. Nabee Hud Alaiyhis Salaam was defied by his people – the ‘Ad so they were punished and were swept away by devastating tornado of hot wind. Their successors – the Thamud were equally as bad and treated Nabee Salih Alayhis Salaam with, contempt, pride and injustice. They were completely destroyed and buried by an earthquake. Nabee Lut )Lot) Alayhis Salaam warned his people to refrain from their evil ways, their lusts and heinous deeds. They disobeyed and continued to reject the warnings and were eventually destroyed when fire and brimstone rained upon them. The people of Midian indulged in fraud and evil deeds. Nabee Shu’aib Alayhis Salaam’s warning too were totally ignored and they too severely punished and perished when they were buried by an earthquake.

The story of Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam is now recounted. His struggles to free his oppressed people – the Bani Isra’eel from Fir’aun (Pharoah) and his eventual success by leading them towards the Promised Land. [This is an illustration of the struggles, the sacrifices, the trials and tribulations of our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam and his ultimate victory against the unbelievers]. The people of Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam corrupted the Divine Laws and Commandments of Almighty Allah and continued to ridicule and break their covenants with Almighty Allah because they rejected Nabee Muhammad Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam after he brought the Divine Light and Guidance to them as well. The truthful ones from among them accepted Islam while those who rejected were “broken into different sections” and were scattered throughout the world.

“Mankind has been blessed with the nature of goodness created within
them: yet doth Almighty Allah by His Signs keep up a constant reminder
to men of His Holy Names. Those who err scarce realise how gradually
they fall into sin. Their respite has a term; the doom must come, and it
may be on a sudden. So humbly draw nigh to Allah, declare His Glory,
and rejoice in His Service.”

Courtesy: www.everymuslim.com

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 6

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 6

By Sheikh Abdul Hamid Lachporia – Canada

In the Name of Almighty Allah Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Tonight’s Tarawee consists of three quarters of Wa-ith Sami-U(Juz 7) and the first half Wallow-Annana(Juz 8). The Surah covered is Surah An’am in its entirety. This is a Surah of the late Makkan period. A great part was revealed in its entirety. The reason for placing this Surah in this section of the Most Holy Qur’an is simply because this Surah is a continuation of the spiritual history of mankind from where the previous Surah left off. Up until now, the Most Glorious Qur’an has discussed the creation of man, leading onto the history of the Ahle Kitaab and how they corrupted and adulterated the Divine Message of Almighty Allah, the advent of Islam, and the Rules, Laws and regulations governing the Muslim Ummah. The next step is to contrast the teachings of Islam with the beliefs of the Pagan Arabs [or the Mushrikeen).

The nature of Almighty Allah Exalted is discussed. He alone is the Creator, Sustainer and the All-Truth. Why does man disobey Him? He Alone is the Lord of the heavens and the earth. Next comes the the weakness of paganism. “They reject the Truth when it reaches them” – for they claim that “this is nothing more than magic.” Here Almighty Allah invites the unbelievers to “travel through the earth and see what remains of those earlier nations who rejected the Truth.” – they were all completely destroyed and they will be the losers in the Hereafter as well. The life of the world is “but play and amusement, but the best is the home in the Hereafter”.
All the Messengers Alayhim Salaam are not discouraged if the people reject Almighty Allah’s Message. They want to be deaf, dumb and blind even though they witness Almighty Allah’s magnificent handiwork in all creation. Everything in the heavens and earth conforms to the Will of the Glorious Creator for He alone is the Knower of the Unseen.

The most wonderful perfection in Creation must convince mankind that all this is only Allah’s doing and everything in His creation is under His care and guidance. This is the argument that Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam put forward in his dispute with those worshippers of false idol whom they worshipped as gods. A very important point is brought out against the worshippers of the sun and the moon: Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam rejected them in toto as his gods because the sun disappears when the day is over and it cannot offer its radiance and warmth all the time. Similarly the moon whose radiance is so splendid, cannot offer any radiance once it sets. In short, it would be futile to accept either of them as gods because they themselves have been created for a purpose and there are limits to their abilities. The Creator is surely Almighty Allah Rabbul Ala’meen, because His Light – the Most Glorious Qur’an shines all the time to offer us Divine Guidance.

The succession of prophets after Nebee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam kept Almighty Allah’s Truth alive and led up to the birth of Rahmatul Liel Ala’meen and the revelation of the Most Holy and Noble Qur’an. The knowledge of the existence and understanding of Almighty Rabbul Ala’meen, His Majesty, His Goodness and His Greatness can be gained by studying His Creation and by studying His Divine Messages to mankind. The stubborn and evil deceived and are been led astray therefore they should be avoided. Though they turn for assistance to one another, Allah will not aid them. They will receive their punishment is due time.

Almighty Allah Azza Wajjal’s Law will be carried out, despite the crimes and evil manipulations of the Kuffar and Mushrikeen.

Follow the Path of Seeratal Mustaqeem (The Straight Path) so that we can attain the good life in this world and in the Aghirah.

Courtesy: www.everymuslim.com

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 5

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 5

By Sheikh Abdul Hamid Lachporia – Canada

In the Name of Almighty Allah Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Tonight’s Tarawee consists of La Yuhibbullah(Juz 6) in its entirety up a quarter of Wa-itha Sami-oe(Juz 7).
The Surah’s covered are: the last quarter of Surah Al- Nisa and Surah Ma’ida completely. The final portion of Surah Al-Nisa deals with the wrongdoings of the Ahle-Kitaab and also makes mention of those people who were honourable exceptions. The outcome of both these two groups of people are discussed and brought to light.

SURAH MA’IDA:
Surah Ma’ida retells us how the Jews and Christians had corrupted themselves and how Islam came to show mankind perfect guidance once more. It refers to the Christians with whom Almighty Allah Subhanahu Wata’ala took a covenant,”but they forgot a significant portion of the Divine Message that was sent to them,” i.e. they rejected the order that Nabee Esa Alayhis Salam (Jesus P.B.O.H.) gave to them whereby he advised them of the coming of Nabee Muhammad Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam and that they should accept him as the Beloved Messenger sent as a mercy to them from Almighty Allah Exalted.

In contrast to the corruption of Christianity and Judaism, the rules of Islam pertaining to Halal and Haraam foods, cleanliness and justice are recapitulated. The fourth (4th) Verse contains the most beautiful and memorable verse by Almighty Allah Jallah Wa’ala: “This day have I perfected for you Islam as your religion.” This was the very last verse to be revealed. This most memorable verse was revealed to our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam in 10 A.H. during our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam’s last Haj.

This Surah commences with an appeal to mankind. All obligations whether they are human or Divine, are holy and should therefore be fulfilled. Rules relating to partaking of food are laid down. Dead meat [carrion], blood, and the meat of swine [i.e. pig, pork etc] are all forbidden for health reasons. Any animal slaughtered in the name of a deity other than in the name of Almighty Allah Azza Wajjal is forbidden (Haraam). All things good, pure and wholesome are Halal. Laws are laid down in our dealings and relations with the Ahle Kitaab, to show that a true Muslim should be tolerant towards people of other faiths.

Cleanliness of the body, justice, uprightness and honesty in our dealings are emphasized since all these are acts of piety. The Most Glorious Qur’an now also discusses the Jews and the Christians who broke their covenant with Almighty Allah Rabbul Ala’meen. As a result of this, Almighty Allah withdrew His favours and they were left wondering in the wilderness. In spite of all this, Allah Most Gracious sent His Apostle – “the bringer of Glad Tidings and warner [from evil]” as a guidance to all of humanity. The murder of the pious and loving Abel by his evil brother Cain shows the type of vicious treatment that a just man suffers from envy and jealousy. But Almighty Allah Exalted will punish the wicket; that is why a just man will not grieve or experience sorrow.

Muslims must be fair-minded always because truth and justice is an agreement with Almighty Allah’s Divine Laws. At the same token, Muslims must not take as friends and/or protectors those in whose hearts there is a disease to whom Islam is a joke. Piety, humility and good deeds among the Christians must be appreciated. Muslims must enjoy all that is good and lawful, and must forever be thankful to Almighty Allah for His favours. Swearing, drinking, gambling, killing of game in the Sacred Territory (Haram Sharif}, superstitions, black magic and giving false evidence are condemned and forbidden.

The miracles of Nabee Esa Alayhis Salaam (Jesus P.B.O.H.) are recounted, and how they were misused by the Christians. The faith of those who raised Nabee Esa Alayhis Salaam’s status to god-head, son of god, saviour, etc.etc. is briefly discussed.
Courtesy: www.everymuslim.com

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 4

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 4
By Sheikh Abdul Hamid Lachporia – Canada
In the Name of Almighty Allah Most Gracious, Most Merciful
Tonight’s Tarawee consists of the last quarter of Lantana (Juz 4) to the end of Wal-Muh’sanat(Juz 5). The Surah covers three quarter of Surah An-Nisaa. This Surah is closely related with the previous Surah and deals with the social problems that the Muslim community had to face immediately following the Battle of Uhud.

The principals laid down in this Surah have always been regarded as Muslim Law and social practice for The Muslim Ummah for all times. This Surah can be divided into two different parts: (1) Dealing with general family life, the rights of women in Islam; treatment towards orphans and the rights of orphans; laws dealing with inheritance and marriage; (2) Dealing with the Muslim community in Madinah as well as dealing with the hypocrites and the Jews. Hence in this Surah, we find the regulations laid down for both our private law as well as our attitude towards our territorial neighbours.

The Surah begins with an appeal to the unity of mankind since Almighty Allah Azza Wajjal created mankind from “a single soul”. Women and orphans have certain rights which must always be fulfilled. We are asked to treat women and orphans in a just manner. Husband and Wife must honour each other. Close family relationships that are blessed with offspring are healthy and are a great source of Allah’s Pleasure. This leads to the discussion of Laws and Inheritance, indicating that justice must extend to the distribution of wealth to all family members. We must follow Allah’s Commandments towards family while they are alive as well as when they have departed from this Doonya.

The Bani Isra’eel are accused of indulging in twisting words and making fun of the Divine Commandments and believing in magic and evil. The hypocrites are also warned. The only salvation left for these misguided people is to accept Nabee Muhammad Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam as the true Messenger of Allah and to accept the Holy Qur’an as the final revealed message with complete confidence. Muslims are told to be well prepared against their enemies as well as against the hypocrites. The lives of Muslims are sacred and a believer should never kill another believer. If one slays a believer in error, full compensation should be made to his family.

Do not judge those who offer Salaam to you; instead investigate the matter thoroughly before passing judgement. Do not live in a place that is hostile towards Islam – if you are able to migrate to a safer place. We are asked to shorten our Salaat in times of danger and on journeys. Do not go astray but follow the Laws of Allah as laid down in the Holy Qur’an. Muslims are told that the best form of charity is charity that is given secretly; restore brotherhood and peace between quarreling Muslims. Shirk is not forgiven.

Being just to orphans and women is part of Imaan. Practice justice even if the verdict is against yourself or your family members. Strengthen your faith by rejecting evil deeds and hypocrisy. Speak truthfully and avoid hurting the feelings of others. All the Prophets of Allah Alayhim Salaam brought the same message of Truth…the Message of Islam thus do not say: “We believe in (the teachings of) some but reject (the teachings of) others.”

Courtesy: www.everymuslim.com

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 3

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 3

By Sheikh Abdul Hamid Lachporia – Canada

In the Name of Almighty Allah Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Tonight’s Tarawee consists of the second half of Tilka(Juz 3) and three quarters of Lantana(Juz 4). Tonight we cover and complete Surah Al-i-Imran in its entirety [The Family of Imran].

Surah Al-i-Imran is cognate to Surah Al-Baqara, but the matter is here treated from a different point of view. The reference to the Battle of Badr (Ramadan A.H.2) and the Battle of Uhud (Shawwal A.H. 3) gives us a clue to the dates of these passages. Like Surah Al-Baqara, Surah Al-i-Imran takes a general view of the religious history of mankind, with special reference to the People of the Book, proceeds to explain the birth of the new Ummah of Islam and their ordinances, insists on the need of struggle and fighting in the cause of Truth, and exhorts those who have been blessed with Islam to remain constant in Faith, pray for guidance, and maintain their spiritual hope for the future.

The new points of view developed are: (1) The emphasis here is laid down on the duty of the Christians to accept the new light; the Christians are specially appealed to, as the Jews were specially appealed to in Surah Al-Baqara; (2) the lessons of the Battles of Badr and Uhud are set out for the Muslim community; and (3) the responsibilities of that community are insisted on both internally and in their relations to those outside. The People of the Book had only a portion of the Book, and if they reject the complete Book, the People of Imaan must part company with them, and their day is done. The story of the Family of Imran (the father of Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam) leads us from the Mosaic Dispensation to the miracles connected with the birth of Nabee Esa Alayhis Salaam and his ministry.

Allah’s revelation being continuous, all people are invited to accept its completion in Islam, and controversies are deprecated. The Muslims are asked to hold together in union and harmony, and are promised security from harm from their enemies, and enjoined to seek friendship among their own people. The great Battle of Badr showed how Almighty Allah helps and upholds the virtuous and how patience, perseverance, and discipline find their reward; on the other hand, the lessons of Uhud must be learnt, not in despair, but in the exercise of the higher virtues and in contempt of pain and death. The misfortunes at Uhud are shown to be due to the indiscipline of some, the indecision and selfishness of others, and cowardice on the part of the hypocrites, but no enemy can hurt Allah’s Cause. The taunts of the enemy should be disregarded, and sincere prayer offered to Allah Who would grant His servants success and prosperity.

The Holy Quran’s revelation has, step by step, confirmed the Laws of Nabee Moosa and the Gospel of Nabee Esa Alayhim Salaam. It is a guide from Almighty Allah, and appeals to reason and understanding. Let us understand it rightly, in reverence and truth, unswayed by those who reject faith, and seeking ever the reward of the Pleasure of Allah, through firmness, patience, discipline, and charity, and offering others the Light which we have ourselves received.

Courtesy: www.everymuslim.com

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 2

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 2

By Sheikh Abdul Hamid Lachporia – Canada

In the Name of Almighty Allah Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Tonight’s Tarawee consists of the last three quarters of Sayakool and the First Half of Tilka. The Surah covered is the final third of Surah Al-Baqara

In the very first Sipara, we are told how Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam, together with his son Hazrat Isma’il Alayhis Salaam built the Holy Ka’bah, which stood for the centre of Tawhid and the Unity of Islam. Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam prayed upon completing the construction of the Holy Ka’bah: “O our Lord! Make us among those who submit to Your Will and make our offspring an Ummah that bows down to Your Will.” Upon this, the brotherhood of the Muslim Ummah was established and the symbol of that unity was the Holy Ka’bah.

The rules of of Huqooq-ul-la and Huqooq-ul-Ibad were laid down for the Muslim Ummah. Huqooq-ul-la dealt with mankind’s relationship with Almighty Allah Azza Wajjal while Huqooqul-Ibad dealth with man’s relationship with his fellow man. The Most Glorious and Noble Qur’an emphasizes that righteousness does not by any stretch of the imagination mean that doing things whose importance cannot be comprehended, but in faith, (Imaan), kindness, prayer, Ibadah, Charity, Zakaat, patience, Sabr, caring and sharing, adversity under suffering and good moral conduct and behaviour in general.

Rules and regulations are laid down relating to Halal and Haram foods, Laws of inheritance, fasting, Jihad, Drinking and gambling; treatment of orphans, and women, prohibition from taking interest (Ribah) etc. In short, if one desires to be a good Muh’min, he or she must follow the Divine Commandments of Almighty Allah Exalted. Nothing short of this can make a Muh’min a true and confirmed Muslim.

The subject of Jihad is discussed with reference to Nabee Dawood Alayhis Salaam battle with Jalut (Goliath) and his ultimate victory. Nabee Dawood Alayhis Salaam was blessed with great physical strength. He was a true and mighty defender of Almighty Allah’s Din. We are also told about Nabee Isa Alayhis Salaam and how he was strengthened with the “Divine Word of Rabbul Ala’meen”. We learn how Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam called upon the Bani Isra’eel to cease their evil ways.

References to Nabee Isa and Nabee Moosa Alayhim Salaam regarding the question of Jihad was covered the first night of Tarawee. From the examples of these three great prophets – Alayhim Salaam, we are informed how the three levels of Jihad work: (1) Arming oneself with nothing but the truth (2) fighting and overcoming the evils within ourselves and replacing it with true Imaan (3) Defending the Glorious Din of Al-Islam.
As Muslims, we know that our beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam was Rahmatul Liel Ala’meen and that he possessed all these qualities for His Jihad.

In conclusion we are told that true goodness lies in practical deeds of Muhabbat, kindness, strong Imaan and manliness. Almighty Allah’s Nature is discussed in the most beautiful, eloquent and sublime Ayat-ul-Kursi – the Verse of the Throne. There are two major aspects remaining before the Surah comes to an end. The first is an announcement from Almighty Rabbul Ala’meen to mankind urging man to have true faith in the Divine Commandments and that our faith must be proven by our personal responsibilities as true believers. Secondly, man is taught a beautiful prayer and that he should forever turn to none other than the Most Glorious Creator and Sustainer for all his needs.

Note to the Khateeb or Speaker: It would be advisable to recite verses 285 and 286 together with its meanings.

Courtesy: www.everymuslim.com

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