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

Effects of Worship in Ramadhan

Ramadan - Quran

Experience has shown that effects of ibaadat (worship) in the blessed month of Ramadhan remain upon the remainder of the year. Whomsoever practises any virtue informally therein, ease of performing A’amale Salihah overtakes them thereafter.

Similarly, whoever prevents them self from sinning therein, for the remaining eleven months abstentation will become easy. In reality, prevention from sins in Ramadhan is not too difficult because, it is established that the Shayateen are imprisoned. Consequently, less sinning occurs generally because of removal of this stimulant.

However, sins do not totally disappear because the other orchestrator: one’s nafs (self) is present. Even in this month it will instigate sins but, yes, its schemes will lesson because only one stimulant is now active.

Therefore, the impositions of this one month should be accepted. All parts (of one’s body) should be saved from sin.

Source: Ashrafs Blessings of Ramadhan

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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

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 1

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 1

By Sheikh Abdul Hamid Lachporia – Canada

In the Name of Almighty Allah Most Gracious, Most Merciful

“Blessed is He Who hath revealed unto His slave the FURQAN [the Criterion of Right and Wrong], that He may be a warner to mankind. He unto Whom belongeth the Sovereignty of the heavens and the earth, He hath chosen no son nor hath He any partner in the Sovereignty. He Who created all things, and ordered them in due proportion”. [Surah Al-Furqan: Verses 1 and 2].

“We have sent it down as an Arabic Qur’an,In order that you may learn wisdom.” [Surah Yusuf Verse 2].

In the spirit of the above verses these notes are being prepared in order to foster an interest in understanding the Most Glorious and Noble Qur’an with the sincere intention of recognizing it as a practical Divine Book with which to influence our lives. How much more inspiring would it have been if only all of us would have understood a minute portion of its Divine Message. It is hoped Insha’Allah that that we can all derive full advantage of this humble effort. It is humbly suggested that this brief synopsis of the Surah/Surahs as recited each night during Ramadan be explained to the Jamaat prior to commencing the Tarawee prayers.

May Almighty Allah Jallah Wa’ala in His Infinite Mercy and Bounty accept our humble efforts and may He accept all our Duahs,Supplications, Ibadah and good deeds during this glorious month of Ramadan and throughout the coming years – Insha’Allah Bie Itt’Nillah. Ameen Ya Rabbul Ala’meen.

1ST TARAWEEH
The Surahs recited for the first night of Tarawee consists of: Surah Al-Fatiha and two thirds of Surah Al-Baqara.

SYNOPSIS OF SURAH FATIHA
The prayers and invocations with which our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam began a prayer-service would appear to be little else than the acknowledgement and affirmation before Almighty Allah Subahanahoo Wata’ala of His Glory, His Unity, His Majesty and His Greatness and of one’s own humbleness.”O Allah! With Thy glorification and Thy Praise; Blessed is Thy name, and great is Thy Glory, and there is no god save Thee.”O Allah! I seek refuge in Thee from the enticement, the whisper and the spit of Shaytaan Lanathulahi Alay.” Refuge is then sought from Shaythaan and in order to keep the Salaat and reverence for the Most Holy and Glorious Qura’n safe from his evils it is begun with Bismillah, in accordance with the Quranic dictum: Verse 98 of Surah An-Nahl:

“And when thou recitest the Qura’n, seek refuge in Allah from Shayhaan the outcast.”

Let us now take Surah Al- Fatihah. Our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wassallam said that Surah Al- Fatihah is the greatest and most virtuous in the Most Holy and Glorious Qura’n and declared: “By Him Who is in possession of my life, a ‘Surah’ like this one has neither been revealed in the Taura’h, nor in the Zaboor, nor in the Injeel nor even in the rest of the Most Holy Qura’n.” Hazrat Hassen Al- Basri Rahmatullahi Alay reports the saying of our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alyhi Wasallam “that whoever reads Surah Fateha with total and complete understanding is like one who has read the Taura’h, the Zaboor, the Injeel and the Most Holy and Glorious Qura’n. It is also reported in a Hadith that Shaytaan Lannatulahi Alay lamented, wept and threw dust on his head on four different occasions; first when he was cursed; secondly when he was cast out of Jannah; thirdly when our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam received his Prophethood and fourthly, when Surah Al-Fatihah was revealed. Surah Al- Fatihah is without any doubt, a priceless gem of the Holy Qura’n. If the scholars, moral teachers and spiritual mentors of the world were to get together to produce a text which could suffice for all of mankind, irrespective of the diversity of their needs and circumstances, and through which they could express in their prayers what lay at the bottom of their hearts they could not bring forth the like of it.

Since Surah Al-Fatihah is the first chapter of the Holy Qura’n, it has been referred to as Fatihatul-Kitaab or the opening of the Qura’n. Because of its intrinsic value, it has been assigned a place of honour in the Most Holy and Glorious Qura’n and allowed to appear at the very beginning of the opening chapter. Indeed, the Most Holy and Glorious Qura’n endorses its importance in the following terms as declared by Almighty Allah Subahanahoo Wata’ala in verse 87 of Surah Al-Hijr:

“O Prophet! It is a fact that We have given thee seven oft-repeated verses and the great Qura’n.”

These Seven oft-repeated verses are the Opening Surah and they sum up the entire teaching of the Holy Qur’an. What can be a more precious gift to a Muslim than the Glorious Qur’an or any Surah of it? All the wealth in the world, honour and material possessions sinks into insignificance in comparison with it. Surah Al-Fatihah is also called “Umm-ul-Qur’an ” (the core of the Qur’an), “Al-Kafia” (the Sufficient), “Al-Kanz” (the Treasure House), “Asasul-Qur’an” (the basis of the Qur’an) and “Sab’a-al-Mathani” (The oft-repeated seven), each emphasizing a particular aspect of its great and paramount importance. To style this chapter as “Umm-ul-Qur’an” (the core of the Qur’an) is to acknowledge that in its tense comprehensiveness, it concentrates within its ambit the thought-content of the entire Qur’an, and that, on that account, it rightly deserves the place of honour among its chapters. If any one of us were to read nothing but Surah Al-Fatihah out of the Qur’an and grasp its true meaning, we would understand all the essentials of the Faith which form the subject of detailed exposition by the Qur’an. Hence, knowledge of the contents of Surah Al-Fatihah is regarded as indispensable to a Muslim. According to Sahih Bukhari and Muslim, our Beloved Nabee Muhammad Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam is reported to have said that “there is no Salaat for him who does not recite Surah Fatihah.” What plainer view can be taken of human devotion to Almighty Allah Subahanahoo Wata’ala and all that it implies than what is presented in Surah Al-Fatihah?

Here are but seven brief phrases, each one of not more than five words, every word crystal clear and impressive. Almighty Allah Subahanahoo Wata’ala is here invoked in His Attributes, the manifestations of which mankind beholds day in and day out, however much he may, through indifference, neglect to reflect over them. Here you have mankind’s admission of his absolute dependence on none other than Almighty Allah Subahanahoo Wata’ala, his acknowledgement of the Divine Kindness shown to him, his earnest yearning to be saved from the pitfalls of life and to be led along the straight path i.e. The Path of Seerathal Mustaqeem By way of Surah Al-Fatiha – Almighty Allah Azza Wajjal teaches us and He introduces Himself to us and He tells us with words of wisdom and with the expression of Truth of His Sovereignty, His Qualities and His relationship with mankind and with the rest of His creation. He tells us to commit ourselves totally and completely to Him Alone if we want to succeed in this life as well as in the Aghirah. The essence of Surah Al-Fatiha is that mankind is crying out to the Glorious Creator and Sustainer: “O Almighty Rabbul Ala’meen! Help me and show me the Right Path, the Royal highway leading to the Path of Seerathal Mustaqeem”.

SURAH AL-BAQARA
[The Cow revealed in Madinah and contains 286 Verses].
Surah Al-Baqara sums up the teachings of the Most Glorious Qur’an. When mankind is crying out to the Glorious Creator and Sustainer: “O Almighty Rabbul Ala’meen! Help me and show me the Right Path, the Royal highway leading to the Path of Seerathal Mustaqeem” – Almighty Allah Jallah Wa’ala replies with Surah Al-Baqara. The revelation of Surah Al-Baqara is when Almighty Rabbul Ala’meen Exalted replies by saying: “Here is the help that you asked for.” Surah Al- Baqara discusses the creation of mankind, his ultimate fall from Grace as well as the Divine promise of forgiveness in spite of his wrong doing. We are told the story of the Bani Isra’eel and how they transgressed the Divine Will of Almighty Allah Subhanahu Wata’ala and how they persisted in their evil ways.

Surah Al Baqara also covers the story of Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam and Nabee Esa Alayhis Salaam, and how they had to deal with the corruption and evil ways of their people. We are also told how the Yahood and Nasara despite being blessed with divine scriptures and prophets rejected Nabee Muhammad Ibn Abdullah Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam and the Din of Islam out of pride and jealousy. Which Muslim, Christian or Jew does not know the name of Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salatu Wassallam? Two thirds of mankind revere him as their leader. Nabee Moosa A.S., Nabee Esa A.S. and our Beloved Nabee Muhammad Sallalahoo Alayhi Wassallam are all his descendants. It is the lamp of Taqwa and Imaan lit by him that has for so long illuminated the entire world. Nabee Ebrahim A.S. was born in the city of Ur in what is now Iraq over four thousand years ago. At that time the people had completely forgotten Almighty Allah Subahanahoo Wata’ala. No one recognized Almighty Allah as the Master and Supreme Creator and no one lived in surrender and obedience to Him or to His Laws.

Together with his illustrious son – Hazrat Isma’il Alayhis Salaam they built the Ka’bah in the Holy City of Makkah and purified it, thus establishing the one and only true and complete Din of Islam for mankind. The Holy Ka’bah was to be the very centre and home of Taqwa and Tawhid. The name of this Surah i.e. Surah Al-Baqara [The Cow – Verses 67 to 71] deals with the hypocrisy and evil deeds of people who have gone astray. This is when people reach the abyss of a spiritual death and referred to by Almighty Allah Subhanahu Wata’ala as “deaf”, “dumb” and “blind” despite the fact that they are physically alive.

The final summation of Surah Al-Baqara confirms to us that our honesty and upright conduct are not mere matters of policy or convenience: all our life in this world must be lived as in the presence of Almighty Allah Jallah Wa’ala. The finest example of Faith we have in our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam’s life; full of faith. Let us render willing obedience to the Will of Rabbul Ala’meen Exalted. Our responsibility though great, is not a burden greater than any one of us can bear. Let us pray for Almighty Allah’s assistance, and He will Insha’Allah, surely help and assist us. Ameen.

Courtesy: www.everymuslim.com

Object of Ramadan

On a sweltering hot day your throat has become parched. You are in the privacy of your home and the refreshingly cool water is within hand’s reach. You desire to drink it, but you do not. Why? Simply because you are fasting and while fasting you cannot eat and drink. If somebody prompts you to nevertheless drink it and says: “Nobody is watching,” you will immediately rebuke him with the words: “But Allah is watching!”

ALLAH  TA’ALA IS WATCHING!
Subhanallah! Allah Ta’ala is watching. Allahu Akbar! Allah Ta’ala is All Hearing, All Knowing, He is Omnipresent. He sees and knows when we cheat while fasting, thus we resist all temptations of food, drink and lawful conjugal relations from dawn to dusk. We have learnt the lesson of Taqwa. We have learnt that lesson which the fasting was meant to teach us. Allah Ta’ala is watching! Yes, Allah Ta’ala is Watching! Every time there is an urge to eat or drink while fasting, the voice from within cries out: “Allah Ta’ala is watching!” Dozens of times daily for an entire month this reality is reaffirmed. Allah Ta’ala is watching. So deeply is it embedded in the heart that by the time Ramadhaan is over, a person becomes conscious of Allah Ta’ala to such an extent that he is now guided by an inner force that propels him in the direction of righteousness and turns him away from sin.

TAQWA
The fasts of Ramadhaan were prescribed for the purpose and object of attaining Taqwa. This is clearly declared in the Qur’an-al-Kareem. Taqwa simply is to obey the commands of Allah Ta’ala and refrain from all sin, The increased rewards for lbaadah (worship) in Ramadhaan and all the blessings of this great month should be considered as the bonus. The object is Taqwa. If one performs an abundance of Salaah, completes the recitation of the Qur’an thirty times and engages in many other acts of lbaadah, but fails to give up sins – one has failed to achieve the object and purpose of Ramadhaan. One has failed to firmly embed the reality of Taqwa in the heart, the Taqwa that cries out “Allah  Is watching” whenever one contemplates committing any transgression.

TEMPTATION
The dictates of Taqwa are not restricted to abstaining from drinking, gambling, adultery, transacting in interest and other such vices. Indeed Taqwa demands that while abstaining from all the above vices one also observes Taqwa in one’s business. When the temptation to cheat the customer beckons, or when one is tempted to buy stolen goods, or to indulge in fraud, at that time also the heart should cry out “Allah is watching” and it should restrain one from the sin.

RIGHTS
Similarly, Taqwa demands the fulfillment of the rights of the husband/wife, It also demands the joining of family ties. It demands respect for the elders and kindness for the young. Taqwa entails, among other aspects, being honest and clear in all monetary dealings and social interactions. Hence when there is a wedding or funeral, or at the time of distributing the inheritance of the deceased, the same level of Allah consciousness must be displayed as was apparent when refraining from drinking the cold water while fasting.

PURDAH
Likewise, when the laws of purdah are violated, does the heart cry out “Allah is watching”? Or when one intends to watch something on TV., which will most definitely involve one in zina of the eyes and ears, does one hear the voice from within: “Allah is watching,” as a result of which one refrains from that sin? The same pertains to the Shari’ aspects of appearance and clothing. How often have we done things to appease and please even the enemies of Allah Ta’ala and Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)? How often have we abandoned the dictates of Taqwa in order to earn a few coppers? Now is the time to sincerely repent. It is the time to say “Allah is watching” and to do everything to please Him. It is a time to acquire Taqwa.

ABSTAIN FROM SIN
This then is the object of Ramadhaan. This will only be achieved if we conduct ourselves in this great month with Taqwa. Or else the object of Ramadhaan will be defeated. Hence Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) is reported to have said: “He who does not forsake lying and other futile actions, Allah Ta’ala has no need for him to give up his food and drink.” Thus together with fasting, performing Salaah, reading the Qur’an, serving the cause of Deen, etc,, one must totally abstain from every sin in the month of Ramadhaan and adorn oneself with Taqwa. Insha-Allah this will then carry one along for the rest of the eleven months to abstain from all sins.

May Allah Ta’ala enable us to make this Ramadhaan a month where we will truly attain Taqwa. Aameen.

AL-HAADI, Volume 5 – Issue 4

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Repost from May 2018

Object of Ramadan

Laylatul Qadr

What is Laylatul Qadr?

Laylatul Qadr, also known as the Night of Power or Night of Decree, is one of the most significant events in the islamic calendar.  It was on this blessed night that the first verses of the Quran were revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

(The Night of Power)

Crowning Glory

Laylatul Qadr is the crowning glory of the holy month of Ramadhaan. It is associated with the sending down of the Qur’an Majeed, the last Book of Allah on His last Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam), for the guidance of mankind. The Qur’an Majeed describes this Night.

إِنَّا أَنزَلْنَاهُ فِي لَيْلَةِ ٱلْقَدْرِ
وَمَآ أَدْرَاكَ مَا لَيْلَةُ ٱلْقَدْرِ
لَيْلَةُ ٱلْقَدْرِ خَيْرٌ مِّنْ أَلْفِ شَهْرٍ
تَنَزَّلُ ٱلْمَلاَئِكَةُ وَٱلرُّوحُ فِيهَا بِإِذْنِ رَبِّهِم مِّن كُلِّ أَمْرٍ
سَلاَمٌ هِيَ حَتَّىٰ مَطْلَعِ ٱلْفَجْرِ

“We have indeed revealed this (message) in the Night of Power: And what will explain to you what the Night of Power is? The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. Therein come down the Angels and the Spirit (Jibraeel) by Allah’s permission, on every errand: Peace! This until the rise of Morn!” (Surah 97)

The Night of Power is the night of spiritual bliss. Our Nabi (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) is reported to have said concerning Ramadhaan:

“Verily this month has come to you; and therein is a night which is better than a thousand Months. Whosoever is deprived of it, is deprived of all good; and none is deprived of its good except a totally unfortunate person”. (Ibn Majah)
“Whosoever stands up (in prayer) at the Night of Power out of faith and hopeful of reward, all his past sins will be forgiven.”(Targhib)

Better than a thousand months

A thousand months are equivalent to 83 years and 4 months. Fortunate is the person who spends this night in prayer. The man or woman, who prays for the whole night during this Night, will deserve blessings and reward for the period as if he or she had been praying for eighty three years and four months consecutively. Since the Night of Power is better than one thousand months no one can actually measure the extent as to how much better it is.

Exclusive

The Holy Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: “Laylatul Qadr has been bestowed by Allah to my Ummah (People). It was not given to any people before this.” (Dur-Mansoor).

How manifest and replete the special bounties and mercies of Allah Ta’ala are upon this Ummat is quite really beyond imagination. It will therefore be extremely foolish to allow ourselves to be deprived of these great blessings at the expense of sheer laziness and a few hours of extra sleep.

Which Night is it? When is Laylatul Qadr?

The exact date of Laylatul Qadr is not known to the Ummah and is one of the matters only Allah knows, with the wisdom people strive to seek it.

Although there are different reports in different traditions regarding the exact night, it is almost unanimous that the blessed night occurs in one of the last ten nights of Ramadhaan and more probably in one of the last ten odd nights i.e. 2lst, 23rd, 25th 27th or 29th night.

The popular opinion is, however, in favour of the 27th Night of Ramadhaan but that is not absolutely certain. The traditions indicate that it is to be sought in one of the last ten nights and preferably in the last three odd nights. It was therefore the practice of the Holy Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) and his companions to make I’tikaaf in the Mosque for the whole time offering Divine service during the last ten days of Ramadhaan.

Hazrath Aisha (Radhiallaahu Anha) reported that the Apostle of Allah said: “Search for the Blessed Night in the odd (nights) from the last ten (nights) of Ramadhaan” (Bukhari).

What to do on Laylatul Qadr?

Hazrath Aisha has narrated another saying:
“I asked: O Messenger of Allah! Tell me if I were to find a Night of Power, what should I recite therein?” Holy Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) advised her to recite:

اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي

Allaahum-ma in-na-ka ‘afoow-wan tu-hib-bul-‘af wa fa-fu ‘an-ni.
O Allah! You are Forgiving, You love forgiveness, so forgive me. (Bukhari).

Special attention should therefore be given to the excessive recitation of this dua for Laylatul Qadr on the blessed night. Furthermore one may engage in lengthy rakaats of Tahajjud salaat, Tilaawat of the Qur’an, Dua, Zikr, etc.

The worship and the vigil of the Night of Power are a treat to the soul. The heart tends to melt into tears of heartfelt gratitude. The body is in a state of angelic ecstasy The soul strives to reach nearer to Almighty Allah. In this holy month of Ramadhaan let us strive to seek the Night of Power and its bliss. May Allah reward us with His bountiful blessings. Aameen.

Laylatul Qadr

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