Kalamullah.

Com
 In the Name of Alláh,

the Most Gracious, and the Most Merciful

"And those who are with him are severe against disbelievers,
and merciful among themselves. You see them bowing and
falling down prostrate (in prayer), seeking Bounty from Alláh
and (His) Good Pleasure. The mark ofthem (i.e., oftheir) is on
their faces (foreheads) from the traces of prostration. This is
their description in the Taurát, But their description in the Injeel
(Gospel) is like a (sown) seed which sends forth its shoot, then
makes it strong, and becomes thick and it stand s straight on its
stem, delighting the sowers, that He may enrage the disbelievers
with them. Alláh has promised those among them who believe
and do righteous good deeds, forgiveness and a mighty reward
(Le., Paradise)." (48:29)

In addition, there is another Verse:

"And He has united theirIi.e., believers') hearts. Ifyou had
spent all that is in the earth, you could not have united their
hearts, but Alláh has united them. Certainly He is All-Mighty,
All-Wise." (8:63)
Contents 5

Contents

Publishers Note 9
Preface 11
Al-Khutbah 11
Value ofthe Khutbah 11
Role ofthe Khutbah in Islam 11
Virtue ofthe Day of Jumu 'ah (Friday) 14
Chapter 1: Sorne serrnons of the Prophet ~ and his
Cornpanions
Introduction ofthe Prophet's sermons 23
The first sermon of the Prophet ~, given in Makkah when
he called his people to Islam 24
Prophet's sermon in which he reminded people of Alláh, the
Exalted; and called to loving Him and loving each other for
His Sake 25
A speech that the Prophet ~ delivered at Mina 26
The Prophet's speech about enjoining good and forbidding evil.. 27
*'
The Prophet discourages liking this Life 28
The Prophet's Khutbah on the virtue of seeking religious
knowledge 28
The Prophet's sermon during Hajjatul-Wada ' 29
A Sermon by Abu Bakr As-Siddiq 0:.>-11 ¿O) on sincerity and
drawing lessons 33
'Urnar Al-Faruq 0:.>-1\ ¿O) warns against believing in soothsayers
and encourages virtues 35
A sermon by the fifth Rightly Guided Caliph, 'Umar
bin Abduf-Aziz 37
The virtue ofthe statement Lá iláha illalldh (No deity is
worthy ofworship except Alláh) 37
A sermon warning against Shirk and its causes 41
Contents 6

Chapter 2: The 'Aqeedah (Islamic Creed)

The meaning of La iláha illalláh and its requirements 47

Implications ofthe Shahadah that Muhammad is the

Messenger of Alláh 52

Necessity ofknowing Alláh and His Tauhid 54

Necessity ofworshipping Alláh Alone, and an explanation

of its meanings 56

Essence of Imán (Faith) and its signs 64

A Summary ofthe Creed of the Ahls-Sunnah wal-Jamd 'ah 70

Significance of obeying the Messenger ~ 76

Necessity of loving Alláh and His Messenger ~ more

than anyone else 80

Necessity of referring to the Sunnah for Judgment.. 84

The five pillars of Islam 88

Islam provides ultimate Safety 92

Tawakkul (trusting) in Alláh 97

The necessity of Ikhlas (Sincerity) in deeds 101

Seeking the lawful means of approach to Alláh 108

Warning against Nifaq (Hypocrisy) 111

What negates Islam 118

Shirk (ascribing partners to Alláh) in worship 120

Invoking Alláh for Muslim leaders 126

Rights and duties of Muslim Jeaders 132

The danger disunity poses to MusJims 138

Second Khutbah 142

Enjoining Righteousness and forbidding evil 144

Warning against Bid 'ah (Innovation in the Religion) 149

Necessity of obeying the Messenger ~ and adhering to the Qur'án 154

Legal manners ofvisiting graves 159

Celebrating the Prophet's birthday is a despicable Bid 'ah ..

(Innovation in the ReJigion) 164

Disallowing celebrating the Prophet's Hijrah 171

Contents 7

Forbidding the various Bid'ah during the month of Rajab 177

Celebrating the Night of Al-Isrá' wal-Mi Ora) (the Prophet's

overnight Journey from Makkah to Jerusalem, then to

heaven then back to Makkah) 180

Encouraging visiting the Prophets Mosque in Al-Madinah 183

Seeking the Shifá 'ah (lntercession) 186

Contradicting disbelievers is a requirement ofIslam 190

Lawful healing methods as compared to false superstition 197

Chapter 3: The Acts ofWorship

The importance ofthe prayer and the reasoning behind its ..

legislation 203

Humility in the prayer 208

Issues and rulings related to the prayer 214

The prostration of forgetfulness 219

Friday prayer: The wisdom behind it and the exhortation for

the people to attend it 224

The month of Ramadhán, obligation and comfort 228

The virtues of Lailat-ul-Qadr (the Night ofDecree) and

the night prayer '" 234

Alms giving and its status 238

Pilgrimage - Ha)) 245

Bidding farewell to the year. 253

Chapter 4: Behavior and good manners

Countering bad deeds with good deeds and love among

the Muslims 261

Safeguarding the trust 265

Modesty (1) 271

Modesty in the Islamic society (II) 275

Merey 279

Honoring the ties ofkinship 287

The neighbor's rights 295

The danger of false testimony 301

Contents 8

Bribery 305

The detriments of Khamr (Intoxicants) 311

The punishment for fornication and sodorny 316

The danger of backbiting and slander 321

Chapter 5: Al-Riqáq (talks that softeo the heart)

Repentance 329

Fearing Alláh's punishment 335

The signs of the Hour 341

Patience 346

The advantages of Taqwa 352

The virtue ofremembrance of Alláh ~ 357

Chapter 6: Battles and virtues of the Prophet

~

The qualities ofthe Messenger of Alláh ~ 365

The virtues ofthe Companions ofthe Prophet ~ 370

The virtue of Jihád in the path of Alláh 374

The battle of Badr 381

Publishers Note 9

Publishers Note

All praises and thanks are due to Alláh, the Lord of all that exists.
May the peace and blessings of Alláh be upon Muhammad, the
Messenger of Alláh, and his Family and Companions and all who
follow them in righteousness until the Day of Judgement. Alláh says
in the Noble Qur'án:

l,~~~ ~í I~ Jl ~t¡ ~ -;~ ~í ~; t» 9Jí ;.~ G)J, \~l \;;\~ &Jí li~ ~
dÍ ...,
"\0.,..........~ 0~~J.-~'.)c:::'"

::-:ií
"'í':.~ .............. \ :<"1 ~.-:, :"C 1<

"O you who believe (Muslims)! When the call is proclaimed for
the Salat (prayer) 011 the day of Friday (Jumu 'ah prayer), come
to the remembrance of Alláh Uumu 'ah religious talk (Khutbah)
and Salat (prayer)] and leave off business (and every other
thing). That is better for you ifyou did but know!" (63:9)
The Friday prayer is one of the outstanding symbols of Islam that
distinguishes it from other religions. Alláh has blessed the Muslims by
granting us this day as a day of congregational worship. One of the
most important aspects of the worship performed on Jumu 'ah day is
the deliverance of the Friday sermon (Khutbah). The book that is
before you is being presented as a tool to assist in carrying out this
most important act ofworship.
This book is a translation of the Arabic work entitled Al-Khutab AI­
Mukhtarah. Its translation has been completed under the supervision of
Khalid bin Ibráhim Al-Suyalm, Ifta Office in Washington, D.C. By the
grace of Alláh, Maktaba Darussalam was given the task of editing,
revising and printing this magnificent work. A great care has been taken
to render this book into a clear and lucid style of English, while at the
same time maintaining the ideas of the original sermons. In sha' Alláh,
the reader will find this book easy to read and c1ear in its message.
The sermons contained in this work have been compiled from sermons
given by various prominent figures of Islam. They have been arranged
Publishers Note 10

with the sermons ofthe Praphet ~ himself appearing first, foJlowed by

selected sermons of the rightly guided Caliphs and other great men of
our pious predecessors. The sermons of sorne well-known scholars of
our times have been included as well.
As many Imams of mosques in the English speaking world may find it
difficuIt and somewhat time consuming to prepare good sermons
every Friday for their congregations, these sermons have been
gathered to assist them in this matter. The sermons have been arranged
to cover a wide variety of topics, beginning with the importance of
Tawhid (Islamic Monotheism), the guidance of Islam concerning the
various acts of worship and Islamic principies of character and
conduct. The sermons are quite educational and may also be used for
personallslamic study and enlightenment.
Each individual may differ in his style of delivering a Friday serrnon,
so we are not necessarily suggesting that a person must read these
sermons word for word from the Minbar (Iecture stand). However, the
one who is preparing his sermon may at least draw very important
ideas, statements and evidences from those contained in this book.
Obviously, one may find the need to make additions or deletions to
the sermons in this book based upon the circumstances and needs of
his particular community. The use of this book should enhance the
presentation ofthe lmam's Friday sermon and not impede it.
We hope to Alláh that this work is acceptable to Him and beneficial to
all those who use and read it. We ask Alláh to make this work a
guidance and means of helping the Islamic work in the West. And our
final invocation is that all praises are due to Alláh, the Lord of all that
exists.
AbduI-Malik Mujahid
Preface 11

Preface

A l-Khutbah
Al-Khutbah pertains to speaking to an audience for the purpose of
convincing them and winning their approval. Therefore, the Khutbah
must contain words; otherwise, it will only be writing (Kitabah).
Further, convincing the audience pertains to the speaker explaining his
opinion to them and using evidence to support his views, so that the
audience embrace and agree with them.
Value of the Khutbah
The Khutbah is one of the great symbols of Islam and an act of
worship legislated, ordained and practiced by the Messenger of Alláh
~ and the Rightly Guided Caliphs after him. Ever since, the Muslim
Ummah has kept this tradition seeking to raise Alláh 's remembrance
high, honoring His Symbols and Limits, calling to His Path and
warning against defying His Commandments.

Role of the Khutbah in Islam

In the beginning of Islam, the Khutbah f1ourished, especially since the
Messenger's speeches were the best school: delivering the great
Message of Islam to the far corners of the earth. Furthermore, among
the best speakers of that time were Abu Bakr As-Siddiq, 'Umar AI­
Faruq and 'Ali bin Abi Ta/ib r-+'-" 1\ ~). Then carne the Muslim
commanders who brought destruction to the Cesars and kings of
Persia.
During the time of the Rightly Guided Caliphs, the profession of
Khitabah (speaking) reached its due leve1 of significance and was not
restricted to the Friday sermon, but also whenever necessity arose.
The Friday sermon played an important role in that. It usually helped
cal m down disturbances, avert division, restored ca1mness and
diverted wars which peop1e were ready and willing to wage.
The Friday sermon was especially important to the Imam (leaders) of
Preface 12

the Muslims in general, prompting the Caliphs to deliver speeches

themselves rather than entrust their aides or officials to deliver ít. This
was the practiced tradition for a long time afterwards, until the Caliphs
gave up the practice of giving the Friday speech gradually after the
death of Caliph Al-Ma'mun, the son of Caliph Harun Ar-Rashid. He
was the last Caliph with a good standard of Khutbah, as demonstrated
by the fact that the Friday sermons, he used to deliver collected in
various literature books. Afterwards, the Caliphs used to appoint
others to deliver the Friday sermono Ever since, the significance ofthe
Friday sermon decreased, so much so, that the Friday sermon no
longer resurrected faith in the hearts ofthose listening to it. The Friday
sermons no longer solidified Tauhid, or conveyed good knowledge to
the believers, or reminded them of Alláhs Days, nor elevated love for
Alláh, nor intensified eagemess to meeting Him by performing Jihád
and martyred in His Cause. Hence, the audience who listened to the
Friday sermon would often depart the way they entered the mosque
(regarding the qualities we mentioned) and indeed, we are all for
Alláh and to Him shall be our retum.
Therefore, the Muslims who are entrusted with the job of giving the
Khutbah, with its significance as the mean s to direct and teach
Muslims the eternal revelation from Alláh, should be qualified for this
duty by having knowledge of the pillars of the religion, as well as
adhering to commandments and legislation. Otherwise, his speech to
the congregation wili be of no benefit to him and will not reach more
than their ears. Hence, the Khatib should be determined that none of
those who are listening to his Friday sermon should depart it without
gaining some type of benefit. Rather, each one of thern should have
benefited and left with his heart full of love for Alláh, dedication to
obeying Him, calling to Him and performing Jihdd in His Cause. Also
each person should feel fear of Alláh and fright from committing
disobedience of Him.
No one attending the Friday sermon in the mosque should depart
without gaining benefits from the Khatib that will enlighten his path
with regards to matters of the Hereafter and this life. The Khatib
Preface 13

should also recite some ofthe Qurán to heal the hearts with it. Surely,
the Qurán is sufficient as a guide, death is sufficient as an advisor and
the Messenger of Alláh ~ is sufficient as the Warner and Bringer of
glad tidings.
The Imam of prayer and Khatib (speaker) should be aware that Alláh,
the Exalted and Most Honored, has warned against heedlessness
regarding remembering Him and has sternly threatened those who do
so, when He said:
, . p ~.vl .~~, }" -: »: -»> (.i'::' "í •• -» "':( (. , ..../ n J¡.
lfr-r.J~r·dJ00'=!fJ~·\ .> ,<\Juá::-";~\-t~.r.ra:¡)AJ"

~S.J~::'~; r1'5;': ~~ ~_~-::\í

"And whosoever turns away blindly from the remembrance of
the Most Gracious (Alláh) (i.e., this Qurán and worship of
Alláh), We appoint for him a Shaitán (Satan/devil) to be a
Qarin (a companion) to him. And verily, they (Satans/devils)
hinder them from the path (of Alláh), but they think that they
are guided aright!" (43:36,37)
Alláh has ordained obligations and orders that remind the forgetful
and alert the heedless. For instance, Alláh has legislated the five daily
compulsory prayers that help those who perform them to remember,
thank and appreciate Him. These prayers help His servants to perform
His obedience in an excellent manner and avoid forgetting His
remembrance, either by night or day. Alláh has ordained establishing
the Jumu 'ah (Friday prayer) on the inhabitants of villages and cities so
that they rush collectively to remember Alláh and, consequently, earn
His generous rewards and merey through obeying Him. They seek a
certain hour in the Jumu 'ah day in which Alláh does not reject the
suplication to Him. They gather to listen to advice, righteousness
enjoined and evil forbidden. They gather to get to know each other
and cooperate in helping the weak, alerting the lazy, and making the
heedless aware. This demonstrates to disbelievers the strength of the
Faithful Believers and their enormous multitudes, so that the
disbelievers feel weak and overpowered.
Preface 14

Virtue ofthe Day of Jumu'añ (Friday)

Islam takes special care of the importance of the Day of Jumu 'ah. For
instance, Alláh the Exalted said:
r v-»> /íG;' f/ ..... />.,..",./ ~,i--::_\t/ 1i-Jl-///.1"'\I<~t~~
LV~J ~ -l ~ JL ~\i ~\ -!.Y:. ~ 9~ <se» bl \.f-"I~ w:.~ ..;.~ '7
j../

"'-:;j:~ .~ Y .\ :élJJ';~:é t;~:~''jí

~u ~ u~r""'-'.-~ c::::c­
"O you who believe (Muslims)! When the call is proclaimed for
the Salát (prayer) on Friday (Jumu 'ah prayer), come to the
remembrance of Alláh [Jumu 'ah religious talk (Khutbah) and
Salát (prayer)] and leave off business (and every other thing).
That is better for you ifyou did but know!" (62:9)
Moreover, Alláh has admonished those who busy themselves from
attending the Khutbah and prefer business transaction instead.
~J pí 0:;;';1lí ~ t; ~ ~~ ..JyJJ ti1~ ¡;~;í (;.1 ji óP-ljI; \~0 '7
.... ''-'1../ }o~ ~~ .Jo .... /~ "/./.:k..

/ ~

~~.;Ví:;;'~t~í
"And when they see sorne merchandise or sorne amusement
[beating of Tambur (drum)] they disperse headlong to it, and
leave you (Muhammad ~) standing [while delivering Khutbah­
tul-Jumu 'ah (religious talk)]. Say: 'That which Alláh has is
better than any amusement or merchandise! And Alláh is the
Best of providers. '" (62: 11)
Ever since Alláh ordained the Jumu 'ah Prayer, the Messenger of Alláh
~ took special care in preserving it, reminding Muslims often of its
significance and warning against taking its obligation lightly.
The day of Jumu 'ah is the best day of the week, for Imam Ahmad,
Muslim and At-Tirmidhi narrated that the Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
'I..:.~ ,~;í /'I~ ,;;::;J\ ~.~ <.1\ ~ ~
V;
--.j'
,.,J i cr-: /'"
--.j
i Y- s
~ ,
•
i y. ~))
.((ci-¡" ~J ,~\.
"Friday is the best day the sun has risen on. In it Alláh has
created Adam, entered him into Paradise and driven him out
of it."
Preface 15

Also on Friday:
.(J ~\ y '...tI ~; :; ~G)I

"There is an hour during which Alláh accepts thc invocation of

those who invoke hirn.?'

Furthermore, Anas = 1\ .?) narrated:

~ ...tI
L;.ll ~J, JY.J
" J~ ,~ , :1\ '1. ~ ':r
J'\; "8") \":'T.:';:~ ~~_. •oí'~ iJ-~.:
~J '-?::' J

y r-SJ ~8~ \ ,~r'-~tj ¿j ~ ¿ ¡ ~ ~\ ~~ :1;: Jli ((~ ~~

;. /~/ / ' ) / ",'" 9oa=

.t;»:
_11./

<'1¡ :Y'.
~
~y ~ Yo
~, \":~'I"
r-) ..'rS.J L.a'::W) ~ ~
'j ¡YG t:.'
'T.:';:) ti b
1": ; : (1'
'T.:';:

l:; )1: .j¡1~. t :1\ J'li . ~ / "" l:J..:'s. / " ,'J ~\ :1\ ' \~ '...tI ' l;
. ~ '-F'"' .!' ¡ Y o , .r) . -~ ;J Y ­
~;

w "'\ t.,l') ú' J';'~1¡

~ - "'"..
,., L- r' J._
'.L;..;\
G / " , '" /'

$'..J ~\ :JIj
'" ,-.r-
'"
..-

"':; L;. l.'

¡..;- iJ-r <
'" ,. ­
»Ó>

((~J.¡"\\
g ;.

~'"
~)
,.j:J~:
'" ~
~G L;.'...tl J~'r
..1,~I'"
. ¡Yo ~L5I~~; '~/"s
.,.
/' o ..... o",} ...-}", --- ,

~~ ~ ::r.~ ~W\ ~'::»-j '0_~.~1I ~~ ~ .JY ~ ~8

,JI ,.., '" '" ... "",.­

~
~
\~'í..< ,~~
y1;.
~\~.Ji'J ~\=\/'li \,,:,í::.
'+;-'-'"'
,b-"~W ..::.> ~tJ\'" ~
/ ' ..r'..r) ,.Y - ~ •

~
" ...-.J '...- ,... J ';'''-
, ,,¿,~") .-J.:".l.; 'or-:.J
}-<l. .. "

(~ Gi : '-~I ...tI J -" . ~\ ~ , 1:='.' .r.:

r- ~; / cs"" ~ .J)
~ ~
~) ..l! : J.0 ~\y...,;! ¿UL.:..; L:.;'.J : 0}.0 . ~1 J~L:.L;
lI. ... "...- ...-...- lI. ...- ...- .....
...- "...;." .... ' " { .....

,'•• o

a __ ...- ~ __ ;. '" ..... ,... },." ,

W, \~I " 0}"""

, . 'i Yo ~ ~
.J.¡"
s.r" '-e.::0'
? ) ,'.'~'-
~
L;. < 1::'. :('1' :(':~
r..,r- r-) r -
'':'1¡: .'~ w' ,¡,,:~
o

-r ~~),.,~
o

"(Angel) Jibril brought a white mirrar that had a mark on it to

the Prophet ss. The Messenger of AlI<1h ~ asked, 'What is this?'
Jibril said, 'This is the Jumu 'ah, you and your Ummah were
favored with. People of the Jews and Christians follow you
(their holidays come after Friday), and in it you will earn all
that is good. On Friday there is a~ hour during which AII<1h will
accept the supplication of every slave who invokes Him. It is also

I Sahih Al-Bukhári, Chapteron Jumu 'ah, and Sahih Muslim, Hadith No. 852
Preface 16

called, Yaumul-Mazid, among us (angels).' The Prophet ~

asked, 'O Jibril! What is Yaumul-Mazid (literally, the Day of
More)?' Jibril replied, 'Alláh has chosen a vast valley (in
Paradise) that has a hill made ofmusk. When it is Friday, Alláh
sends down whomever he wants of His angels. Around these
angels there are platfroms made of light that carry the seats of
the prophets (>\....JI ~. Around these plateforms there are other
platforms made of gold and beautified by Yaqut and Zabarjad
(precious stones), whete the Siddiqun (truthful ones) and the
martyrs sit behind the prophets on that hill. Alláh declares, '1
am your Lord, 1 have fulfilled My promise to you. Therefore,
ask Me and 1 will grant you.' They say, 'o our Lord! We ask
for Your Pleasure.' Alláh says, '1 have granted you My
Pleasure, and you will have whatever you wish. 1 also have
Mazid (more, including gazing at His Face).' They anticipate
the coming of Friday in eagerness for what their Lord grants
them during it of all that is good and righteous.'"
Yaumul-Jumu 'ah (Friday) has many other virtues that cannot be duly
recorded here, such as if a believer dies during its day or night, he or
she will be saved from the torment in the grave and its trial.' Tmam
Ahmad and At-Tirmidhi narrated that Ahdullah bin Arnr es- 11 ~.J said
that the Prophet ~ said:
<\\ -::~ ..'. \ ,\~, ,í l ~I
. !!.r.-""' "':::"; 4.U o ....) 'i ~ , .
itJ• -'01 ~\
/ .
/0/ '. .r-'-»> ~
e» '-' _l'~' \,:;»)
~
/ ,
"Alláh saves every Muslim who dies on Friday or during its
nighr' from the Fitnah (tri al) ofthe grave."
Hence, it is befitting that every Muslim should preserve all that
pertains to Jumu 'ah and fulfill its obligations and recommended acts.

Collected by Imam Ash-Shafi'I in his book Al-Musnad, p. 70, and by At­

Tabaráni using a reliable chain of narrators.
2 When angels Munkar and Nakir ask every dead person about the lord, the
prophet j§; and the religion he or she followed.
3 In the lslamic Calendar, the night precedes the day.
,1 Preface

Among the acts that Muslims were commanded on Friday are:

17

I. Recíting the Qur'án, Dhikr (remembering Alláh), Duá'

(supplication) and invoking Alláh to bestow His merey and
bJessings on the Messenger ~, as the Sunnah indicates the
legislation ofthis.

2. Muslims should take a Ghusl (bath), use Siwak (an eastern tree)
branch to clean the teeth and wear perfume and the best and
cleanest clothes they have before departing for the Jumu 'ah
Prayer.
3. It is recommended that one should clip his nails for Jumu 'ah.
4. It is recommended to recite Súrah (chapters) As-Sajdah (32) and
Al-Insán (76) during the Dawn prayer of Friday after reciting the
Al-Fdtihah (1).
5. It is aJso recommended to go as early as possible to the mosque
for Jumu 'ah. 1

6. Walking to the mosque for Jumu 'ah is recommended, as well as

being as close to the Khatib as possible. One is required to listen

Ahmad, Al-Bukhári, Muslim, An-Nasai'i and Ibn Májah narrated that the
Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
~ ~,., g ,... -;;" ti' " ..... o..... "
l5-UI':;
- , ,.'-'
~ t.?-:-',:'I15.w::; r-' ,¡:¡i:. t.?-:-'",'I15~IJI'':~''1))
6"""' ,-,- t.?,-UI~· 6"""' " •~
._. J ;;..~iJ\
. ¡ :b"'k .. ,(~ u ~ ((L::S
.r '
L.S~L5
.. ,.
~
". ,,­
"The example of the one who enters the mosque in the earliest hour is
that of one offering a carnel (in sacrifice). The one corning next is like
one offering a cow and then a ram and then a chicken and then an egg
respectively. "
The earliest hours of the Jumu 'ah start at early dawn or sunrise according to
other scholars. It appears that the correct opinion is that it starts at sunrise,
since the hour that precedes it is the time to take a bath and prepare for
Jumu 'ah. Further, sorne scholars said that the earliest time for Jumu 'ah is
when the day begins at Ad-Duha time (when the sun has risen sorne distance
in the sky) just before midday. They also say that it ends at high noon when
the speaker rnounts the platforrn (to deliver the Khutbah).
Preface 18

to the Khutbah and refrain from being busied by anything else.

7. Sitting in Al-Ihtibá' position during Jumu 'ah is disliked. This is
sitting on the hind end with the knees bent and held together at
the stomach by one's hands or whatever he is wearing. This
position might iead to one falling asleep while the Imam is giving
the Khutbah.

8. lt is recommended for those who feel sleepy to change places in

the mosqueo
9. Those attending the Jumu 'ah should not step over others (in
attempts to draw near the front). This is forbidden according to
some of the scholars and disliked according to others. This last
view is due to the numerous Ahadith reported that prohibit this act.

10. lt is not proper for Muslims to attend the JU/IlU 'ah wearing filthy
clothes or having abad odor coming from them.'
11. It is not proper for the Muslim to attend the prayer after eating
food that causes abad odor, such as garlic, onions, radishes, and
so forth.

12. One should not come between two people sitting next to each
other, unless there is sufficient space between them that they did
not fill,

13. It is recommended for those who attend the JU/IlU 'ah to pray as
much as they can before the Khutbah, until the Imam mounts the

lmam Ahmad, Al-Bukhári, Muslim, Abu Dáwud and An-Nasaii narrated

that Abu Sa'id Al-Khudri I~.J
"---J.":;' said that the Messenger of Alláh j!i:
said:
o ~ ~ ~

ry. J:iJ1))
j ",} o Q

~~ ~ ~\ ~~) !JI~I) '~J5 ¡fi ~\

. ((...c,¡ ---...b ~ . í, ~
" ;_,~YJ,.
"Ghusl (taking a bath) on Friday is compulsory for every Muslim
reaching the age of puberty, and using Siwak and wearing perfume as
much as he is able, even from his familys perfume."
Preface 19

Minbar.
Nafi' «s- 1\ -.?) narrated, "Ibn 'Umar ~ 1\ -.?) used to go early to the
mosque on Jumu'ah day and pray lengthy Rak'at (voluntary prayers).
When the Imam would finish with the Jumu 'ah prayer, Ibn 'Urnar -.?)
~ 1\ would go back home and pray two Rak 'ah voluntary prayer,
saying, "This is what the Messenger of Alláh * used to do.'
14. When the Jumu 'ah is called for, (i.e., the Adhán is caJled) the
Muslim is not allowed to busy himself with anything other than
heading towards the mosque to attend prayer. Therefore, selling
and buying while headed towards the mosque for Jumu 'ah (after
the Adhán is called) is prohibited, according to the scholars of
Islam.
As for the conditions ofthe Jumu 'ah prayer itself, they are many. The
most important of them is the Khutbah. For this reason we have
dedicated this book to this matter by explaining its rulings, mannerism
and recommended acts during it, in addition to chosen sermons that
we have collected herein.
Chapter 1

Sorne serrnons of

the Prophet ~ and

his Cornpanions

 Introduction ofthe Prophet 's Sermons 23

Introduction of the Prophet's Sermons

Narrated Abdullah bin Masud, 'CS­ ~\ 5"), that the Messenger of Alláh
~,%
taught us Khuthatul-Hajjah:
)J~ ~ filL: ~~J '~*3'4 ..~O:<3 ~~, fil ~\ ~l))
/ / /

:1 J ~\) ,'j C5~~

.
~ / ~
'1\ ';,~~) ,'j '-'\~ ~ '.wl o~ ~,I: :;\
/ // /

. II'J;')) ~~ \~ ~\ ~\J ,'j ¿~):1 ~b-J',j¡\ 'ÍrJl

"AII thanks and praises are due to Alláh, Whorn we thank, seek
for help and invoke for forgiveness. We seek refuge with Alláh
from the evils within ourselves. He whorn Alláh guides will
never be misled and he whorn He misguides will never find one
to guide him. 1 bear witness that there is no deity worthy of
worship except Alláh and that Muhamrnad is His slave and
Messenger."
He would then recite three Avdt (Verses ofthe Qurán):
~0;.1":-; ~1/~\~~:;:J/~~~ ~/ 41íi~:íI,}"\:~jí(~b;'~
/ r-'-' ~U.r J // -..P' ~ ~ 0:./ "t': • 7"
"O you who believe! Fear Alláh (by doing all that He has
ordered and by abstaining frorn all that He has forbidden) as He
should be feared. (Obey Hirn, be thankful to Hirn, and remember
Him always.) and die not except in a state of Islam [as Muslims
(with complete submission to Alláhj]." (3: 102)
4> // ,/ (o', N// / / ,:;. r::.~-: -:,!~ .,}-:, ,) ~ '(-::í..:' ~
\~Jj"f;-:;1--, j~'J~~~..s}l\r~~\V"8\";"~ 7"
"O mankind! Be dutiful to your Lord, Who created you from a
single person (Adam), and from him (Adam) He created his wife
[Hawwa (Eve)]." (4: 1)
And:
r
--('""í ,.o.Y-;./'~'<'í
~~ ~\ r .,} 1/ ...-,f·/·J'J'/ ~;·J'-:;;'J'///·1;/-::L/~
~ O ~¿... )~ );l~~ 4J¡1 ~\ ~\" ~~Il;.~ 7"
.J..; /' r-: /' -: ........ J-/ ~ ?'ér:. Jo'"

jo// .-;; ...........

,~ b~ j~ ..w ,4lyus 4J¡1 E' 0""~ ~j>:>

"O you who believe! Keep your duty to Alláh and fear Him, and
 Introduction ofthe Prophet 's Sermons 24

speak (always) the truth. He will direct you to do righteous good

deeds and will forgive you your sins. And whosoever obeys
Alláh and His Messenger (~), he has indeed achieved a great
achievement (i.e., he will be saved frorn the Hell-fire and will be
adrnitted to Paradise)." (33:70,71)
Afterwards, he would rnention whatever he wanted to speak about. 1

The first Sermon of the Prophet ~, given in Makkah when he

called his people to Islam
The Prophet ~ started the speech by praising Alláh and thanking Him
then said:
"Verily, Ar-Raid (one whom his people send to search for water
and grass) does not lie to his people. By Alláhl Even if I lied to
all people, 1 would never Iie to you, and if 1 deceived al I people,
1 would never deceive you. By AII.<ih, other than Whom there is
no deity worthy ofworship, 1 am Alláhs Messenger ~~ to you in
particular and to all people in general. By Alláh! You will die
just as easy as you sleep, and you wi11 be resurrectcd just as easy
you wake up from sleep. You will be recompensed on account
of what you do, earning good for good and evil for evil. Verily,
it is either Paradise for eternity or the Fire for eternity.,,2
This speech frorn the Prophet ~ included announcing his Prophethood
and calling his people to Islam, after Alláh the Exalted and Most
Honored, revealed these Áyat:
.l.1- ","~.1- ¡ ..,,,;. /' \,
-:;,JI> / ....
~~\~P\b q~~--, J'
"And say (O Muhammad ~~): '1 am indeed a plain wamer.
(15:89)

!1 An-Nasai 'i, vol. 6, p. 89, Ibn Mdjah, vol. 1, p. 609 and p. 661, Ahmad, vol.
1, p. 350 and Ad-Darimi, who collected these words for the Hadith, vol. 2,
p. 143
Al-Kamil, vol. 2, p. 27 and As-Sirah Al-Halabiyyah, vol. 1, p. 272
Introduction ofthe Prophet 's Sermons 25

"Therefore proclaim openly (Alláh's Message - Islámic

Monotheism) that which you are commanded, and turn away
frorn Al-Mushrikún (polytheists, idolaters, and disbelievers)."
(15:94 )
And:
<lf~jjí~~í~~~~)J O~;~íd~~;lJ ~
"And warn your tribe (O Muhammad ;i) of near kindred. And
be kind and humble to the believers who follow you."
(26:214,215)

*
This is when the Prophet mounted the Safa Mount (in Makkah) and
declared with the loudest voice, Wa-sabahah, which is a cry the Arabs
used to herald when an imminent danger is about to encompass their
people or tribe. He started heralding next, "O Bani Fihr! O Bani 'Adi!
O Bani Ka'b!' mentioning the sub-tri bes of Quraish by name. When
they gathered, he said to thern:

"What if 1 told you that there are horsemen in the valley about to
attack you, would you believe me?" The said, "Yes, we only
experienced truth from you." The Prophet ;i said, "Then I am a
Warner for you ofthe coming of asevere Torment."

Abu Lahab (the Prophet's uncle) said:

"Perish you O Muhamrnad! Is this why you gathered us here?"
Then the Divine Inspiration came:

O~;~Je.;~
/ ~

"Perish the hands of Abu Lahab! And perish he!"¡ (11 I: 1)

Prophet's sermon in which he reminded people of Alláh, the
Exalted; and called to loving Him and loving each other for His Sake
lbn Ishaq said:

1 Al-Bukhári, vol. 6, p. 94 Muslim, vol. 1, p. 194

 Introduction ofthe Prophet 's Sermons 26

"The Messenger of Alláh t<t: gave another speech in which he

said, 'AII thanks are due to Alláh, I thank Him and seek His Aid.
We seek refuge with Alláh frorn the evils within ourselves and
the burden of our evil deeds. He whom Alláh guides will never
be misled and he whorn He misguides will never find one to
guide hirn. 1 bear witness that there is no deity worthy of
worship except Alláh, Alone without partners. Verily, the best
speech is the Book of Alláh the Exalted. He in whose heart the
Qurán is made beautiful and on its account entered Islam after
being a disbeliever, who chose the Qurán aboye the speech of
all people, has indeed attained success. The Qur' án is the best
and most eloquent speech there is. Love those who lave Alliih,
and love Alláh from the bottom of your hearts.?'
The Prophet ~ meant here that Alláh 's love should encompass all parts
of the heart, for in this case, one's actions will start from his heart in
sincerity with Alláh:
"Do not get bored with Alláhs Speech or rernembering Him,
nor allow your hearts to grow hard towards it. Worship Alláh,
associate none with Him in worship and fear Him as He should
be feared. Let your tongues say the truth for Alláh' s Sake and
love each other on guidance of Alláh's love. Verily, Alláh
becornes angry if His Covenant is broken. May Alliih's peace,
blessings and merey be upon you." (Ibn Hisham collected this
sermon in his book on the Seerah ofthe Prophet ss vol. 1, p. 501
and Ibn Kathir)
A Speech that the Prophet ~ delivered at Mina
The Prophet ~ delivered a speech in Al-Khaif in Mina, an area near
Makkah, as follows:
"May Alláh give radiance to a slave who heard my speech,
mernorized it and delivered it to whoever did not hear it. Verily,

I AI-Bidayah Wan-Nihayah, vol. 3, p. 214 and AI-Baqillani in Al-L'jaz, p.

110
Introduction of the Prophet 's Sermons 27

there might be one who delivers information, even though he

does not fully understand it himse1f. There might be one who
delivers information to one who understands it better than he
does. Three qualities will not cause the Muslim to be cheated on
their account: performing deeds in sincerity with Alláh, giving
sincere advice to Muslim Leaders and adhering by their
Jama 'ah. 1 veri1y, the invocation of the leaders encompasses all
those behind them."
In another narration, the Prophet ~ said:
"Verily, their (the Jama 'ah) invocation is behind him the leader.?'
In another narratiorr' the Prophet ~ said:
"He whose dedication is to matters of the Hereafter, then Alláh
will gather his strength for him and make his wealth in his heart.
Hence, this life will rush to him with submission. As for he
whose concern is this 1ife, then Alláh will dissolve his strength
and make his poverty apparent between his eyes. He will on1y
collect from this 1ife what has been written for him."
The Prophet's speech about enjoining good and forbidding evil
Ibn 'Umar ~ 1\ ~) narrated that the Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
"O people! Enjoin righteousness and forbid evil before a time
comes when you invoke Alláh, but He will not accept your
invocation, and you will seek His forgiveness, but He will not
forgive you. Veri1y, enjoining righteousness does not shorten
life. Veri1y, when the Jewish rabbis and Christian monks

The Jama 'ah is the Companions and a1l those who fol1ow the way they
understood and implemented the religion. It also means the community of
the believers, or the Muslim State.
This part of the speech was col1ected by Ahmad, Ibn Májah and AI-Hakim
from Jubair Ibn Mutim ~.J¡I ~)r AIso Abu Dáwud and Ibn Májah
collected it from Zaid bin Thabit 4..S-.J¡I~.J according to, AI-Fath AI-Kabir,
vol. 3, p. 262,263
I'jaz Al-Qur 'án, by Al-Baqillani p. 133
Introduction ofthe Prophet 's Sermons 28

abandoned enjoining righteousness and forbidding evil, Alláh

cursed them by the words of their Prophets and surrounded them
with affl iction.?'

The Propbet ~ discourages liking tbis Life

The Prophet ~ once gave a sermon in which he said after thanking
AIHih and praising Him:
"O people! This life is the dwelling of crookedness not
straightness, and the residence of sadness rather than happiness.
Those who acquire knowledge in its true reality will not feel joy
in times of ease, nor grieve in times of hardship. Verily, Alláh
the Exalted has created this life as a test and the Hereafter as the
dwelling of recompense. He made the test of this life a reason
behind earning the reward of the Hereafter and the reward in the
Hereafter as compensation for the test in this life. He takes so
that He gives and tests so that He recompenses. The life of this
world vanishes rapidly and changes suddenly. Therefore, beware
of its sweetness so as to avoid the bitterness of its depriving, and
beware of its delights so as to avoid the pains they lead too Do
not excessively build alife that AlI<1h has decided is bound to
destruction, and do not recline to (or like) it. Verily, Alláh has
ordained on you that you should avoid its danger. Otherwise,
you will expose yourselves to His Anger and justifiably earn His
Punishment."
The Prophet's Khutbak on the virtue of seeking religious
knowledge
Mu'adh ibn Jabal ,,-,>-}J¡\ c?.J said that the Messenger of Alláh ~ said:

Certainly, this sermon from the Prophet ~ is so comprehensive, yet

eloquent, that the Khatib eould use it as the basis for an entire Khutbah
about the neeessity of enjoining righteousness and forbidding evil. If the
Khatib does so, his speech will surely be among the most eloquent and
perfeet sermons. This Hadith was eol1ected by At- Tabarani in Al­
Ausat, refer to Majma' Az-Zawaid, vol. 7, p. 266
lntroduction 01 the Prophet 's Sermons 29

"Learn Al-Ilm (knowledge), for learning it is a type of Khashyah

(Fear) of Alláh, seeking it is an act of worship, studying it is a
type of Tasbih (glorification of Alláh), searching for it is a Jihád,
teaching it to those who do not know it is a charity and delivering
it to those worthy of it is an act of drawing closer (to Alláh),
Knowledge is the reference guide to the allowed and the
disallowed, a light on the path for the people of Paradise, the
companion during loneliness, the friend during estrangement, the
converser during seclusion, the guide in times of ease and times of
difficulty, a weapon to use against the enemies and the quality
that is valued by friends. Alláh elevates sorne people by
knowledge to the rank of leaders in righteousness who are
followed, their actions imitated and their opinions referred too The
angels long to attend their gatherings (of learning knowledge) and
shade them with their wings. Everything wet or dry, the fish in the
sea and its creatures, beasts of prey and cattle that live on land
invoke Alláh to forgive them (people of knowledge). Veri Iy, This
is because is the life of the hearts against ignorance and the lamps
of the eyes against darkness. With knowledge the slave reaches
the ranks of the righteous and the elevated grades in this life and
the hereafter. Thinking about knowledgc is equivalent to Siyam
(Fasting), and studying it is equivalent to Qiyam (praying at night
voluntarily). With knowledge, ties of kinship are kept and the
allowed and prohibited become distinguished. It is the lmam
(Leader) of all actions and all actions follow its lead. Only the
happy ones are endowed with knowledge while the miserable
ones are deprived of it."\
The Prophet's Khutbah during Hajjatul-Wada'
During Hajjatul-Wada' (Farewell Ha))) on the tenth year of Hijrah, the
Prophet ~ delivered a speech to pilgrims:
"All thanks are due to Alláh, Whom we thank, seek for help,

Ibn Abdu\ Barr in his book, Jami 'z¡ Bayani Al- '11m, from Musa bin
Muhammad bin 'Ata AI-Qurashi, vol. 1, p. 66
Introduction 01 the Prophet 's Sermons 30

invoke for forgiveness and repent to. We seek refuge with Alláh
from the evils wíthin ourselves and from the burden of our evil
deeds. He whom Alláh guides wíll never be misJed and he
whom He misguídes will never find one to guide him. 1 bear
witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except Alláh
Alone, Who ís without partners, and that Muhammad is His
slave and Messenger. O slaves of Alláh! 1 recommend you to
have fear from Alláh and encourage you to obey Him, starting
rny speech with that which is better. O people! Hear from me
and 1 will explain to you, for 1 do not know if 1 will meet you
after this year ofyours and this gathering ofyours (at 'Arafah),
"O people! Verily, your blood and property are sacred to one
another (i.e., Muslims) until you meet your Lord, like the
sanctity of this day of yours, in this month of yours and in this
city of yours. Verily, you will meet your Lord and He wilJ ask
you about your actions, and 1 have índecd conveyed. Therefore,
anyone among you who was entrusted let hím give the trust back
to those who entrusted them (upon request). Verily, every
transactíon of Riba (usury) is annuJIed, but you wíll have only
your capital. You wiJl neither commit injustice, nor wilI you be
wronged. Alláh has decided that there should be no more Riba,
and the Riba of AJ-Abbas bin Abdul Muttalib (the Prophet's
uncle) is also annul/ed. Verily, al! blood feuds from the time of
Jahiliyyah (the pre-Islamic era of ignorance and polytheism) are
annuJled. I start with annuJling the blood feud of the son of
Rabiah bin AI-Harith bin AbduJ Muttalib, who was nursed in the
area of the tribe of Bani Laith, and whom the tríbe of Huthail
kilJed. It is the first blood feud from the time of Jahiliyyah that I
annul. Verily, the vírtues prized during the Jahiliyyah all
annulled, except As-Sidanah (maintaíning the Ka'bah) and As­
Siqáyah (providing the pilgrims with water). Verily, intentional
murder warrants the Law of Equality (execution, unless relatives
of the víctim accept blood money and forgíve), while semi­
intentional murder is that which results from being ki lIed by a
staff, or a rock and warrants a Diyyah (blood money) of a
Introduction 01the Prophet 's Sermons 31

hundred camels. He who raises this amount will be among the

people of Jahiliyyah. O people! Satan has given up hope that he
will ever be worshipped in this land of yours, so he is content
that he is obeyed in whatever remains other than that, especially
the evil acts that you belittle. Therefore, beware of his danger to
your religion. O people:
...~ >'/>"~' >< l~ ¡~-:c: ~í A> "'~Z-íí -!. ~~~.
jÁ~'y~J
-:
fl....J~.!¿.u ~L~:.
j --:.;,. ..¡--=-'-' . ~ ~-IS::"
'.líU\~ r~
~ '" >" ,"'>1
~~ír~~íMZlí~L:;4~~_~b
"The postponing is indeed an addition to disbelief: thereby the
disbelievers are led astray, for they make it lawful one year and
forbid it another year in order to adjust the number of months
forbidden by Alláh, and make such forbidden ones lawful." (9:37)
Verily, the division oftime has turned to its original form, which was
current when Alláh created the Heavens and the Earth. The year to
Alláh are of twelve months, out of which four months are sacred:
Three are in succession Dhül-Qa'dah, Dhül-Hijja and Muharram, and
(the fourth is) Rajab of (the tribe of) Mudhar which comes between
Jumadi-Ath- Thaniyah and Shaban.
"O people! You have rights on your wives and they have rights
on YOU. You have the rights that they do not allow someone you
dislike to step on your mat (Le., in your home) and that they do
not commit ill-conduct. If they do, then Alláh has allowed you
to refuse to share their beds, and beat them lightly (if it is
useful). But, if they refrain and return to obedience, then they
have the right on you to be spent on and c1othed, according to
what is reasonable. Treat women kindly, for they are your
helpers and do not own any benefit for themselves. You took
them (as wives) by Alláh's Covenant and allowed to enjoy them
sexually by Alláhs Word. Therefore, fear Alláh regards to
women and treat them kindly.
"O people! Comprehend my words, for 1 have indeed conveyed
(the Message). 1 have left with you two things, and if you hold
to them, you will never fall into misguidance, for they are plain
Introduction 01 the Prophet 's Sermons 32

and clear: the Book of Alláh (the Qurán) and the Sunnah of His
Prophet ~.
"O people! Hear my statement and comprehend it: know that
every Muslim is the brother of the Muslim and that all Muslims
are brethren. No Muslim is allowed from his brother's property
except what he gives away with a good heart, so do not wrong
each other. 1 ask you by Alláh , have 1 conveyed?" They said,
"Yes, by Alláh!" The Messenger of Alláh ~ said, "O Alláh, be
the Witness. Do not revert to disbelief (become infidels) after
me by striking the necks (cutting the throats) of one another
(killing each other).
"O people! Your Lord is One and your father is one, for all of
you are from Adam and Adam was created from dust. Verily,
the most honorable of you with Alláh is that (believer) who has
At-Taqwá (piety). Verily, an Arab has no virtue above a non­
Arab except by the Taqwá. Have 1 conveyed?" They said,
"Yes." He said, "It is incumbent upon those who are present to
convey this information to those who are absent.
"O people! Alláh has appointed a designated share for each
rightful inheritor, so there is no will for a rightful inheritor.
None should give away more than a third of his will. The child
belongs to the bed (where he was born), and for the adulterer is
the stone (Le., deprivation). Verily, he who claims a father other
than his own father, or takes possession of a dependent other
than his own, then on him will be the curse of Alláh, the angels,
and all of mankind, and Alláh will not accept from him any
prayer or fast. May AI1<lh' s peace and blessings be unto you.'"
 A Sermon by Abu Bakr As-Siddiq 33

A Sermon by Abu Bakr As-Siddiq ~ ~\ ~ )

on Sincerity and drawing Lessons
Abu Bakr As-Siddiq es- .1\ ..?) gave a speech once and started it with
praising Alláh and thanking Him, then said:
"Verily, Alláh does not accept deeds except those which were
performed for the Sake of His Pace only. Therefore, seek
Alláhs Pace by your actions. Know that whatever action you do
with sincerity to Alláh is an act of obedience that you
performed, a good share that you earned, a duty that you
fulfilled, and a reserve that you keep from perishable days to
everlasting days. At that time you will be most in need and in
anticipation (for these good deeds)."

¡ O slaves of Alláh! Draw a lesson from those who died before you.
¡ Think about those who lived before you. Where were they yesterday?
I
Where are they today? Where are the tyrants who were noted for the
t

¡
wars they waged and earned victories in battle? Time has eliminated
l them and they disintegrated to dust. The only things that remain from
them are their evil statements, and verily, evil statements are for evil
people and evil people are for evil statements. Where are the kings
who ruled on the earth and inhabited it? They have become a thing of
the past and their memory has been forgotten. They have become
nothing. Yet, Alláh the Exalted and Most Honored has kept for them
the evil burden of their deeds, but ended their streak of lusts. They
perished, but the deeds they committed remained theirs even though
the world has become for others. We were created after them, so if we
draw lessons from their fate we will attain deliverance. Otherwise, if
we were deceived by all ofthis, we will eam a fate similar to theirs.
Where are the bright faces of those who were deceived on account of
their youth? They have turned into dust, but what they committed of
shortcomings remained with them as cause for sorrow. Where are
those who built cities, fortified them with walls and collected wonders?
They left all this for those who carne after them; there you see the
A Sermon by Abu Bakr As-Siddiq 34

remains of their cities, they have not been inhabited after them.
Meanwhile, they are in the darkness of graves:
""P'" :~V . . < 1...J~· -: ~ ~ t: :l:...
"l::~~r--~.J e ~~~iY" r
"Can you find a single one of them or hear even a whisper of
them?" (19:98)
Where are those whom you knew among your forefathers and
brethren? Their lifetimes carne to an end and they joined their deeds
and actions. They are residing after they died either in the dwelling of
happiness or misery.
"Verily, Alláh is One and has no partners in worship. There is
no tie of kinship between Him and any of His creation that
warrants granting goodness or fending off evil on account of that
kinship. There is only the obedience of Alláh and abiding by His
Commandments. Know that you are subservient slaves (of
Alláh) and that what He has can only be earned through obeying
Him. Is it not time for one of you that the Fire be taken away
from him, while Paradise is not made far from his reach?,,1

1 AI-Bidayah wan-Nihayah, by Al-Hafiz Ibn Kathir, and At-Tarikh, by At­

Tabari, vol. 3, p. 311
'Umar Al-Faruq-» J/~.J warns against believing in soothsayers '" 35

'Umar AI-Faruq 4;S- .ill\ ~) warns against

believing in soothsayers and encourages Virtues
'Urnar = .11 ..?J gave thís sermon once, after praisíng Alláh and
thankíng Him for His Favors. He said, "1 recommend you to adhere to
the Taqwa of Alláh, Who remaíns while everythíng else períshes. He
honors Hís Auliyá' (Loyal Fríends) on account of theír obedíence to
Hím and mísguídes His enemíes on account of theír dísobedience of
Hím. Therefore, whoever earns destructíon has no excuse íf he
commits a misguídance that he thought was a part of guidance or
abandons a truth that he thought was misguídance. Learn the Qur'án
and you wílI be known by this quality, and act according to it so that
you become one of its people. Indeed, none has the ríght to be obeyed
in the disobedience of Alláh.
Know that there is a barríer between the slave and his desígnated
sustenance; if he observes patíence, his sustenance wíll come to hím,
but if he tries to breach the barrier he wílI never attain more than his
designated sustenance. Beware of imitating the traditions of AI- 'Ajam
(in reference to non-Arabs, for much oftheír tradition was annulIed by
Islam) and being neighbors to tyrants. Never sit at atable where
alcohol is beíng served, enter a public bathhouse without an Izar (robe)
or submít your necks to humílíty. Know that cursíng a Muslim ís sin
and fightíng him is Kufr (disbelief). You are not allowed to shun your
brother more than three days. Verily, he who goes to a sorcerer, Kahin,
or 'Arra! and believes in what he says wilI have disbelieved ín what
was revealed to Muhammad ~.l

Al- 'Arra! is the soothsayer, while Al-Kahin claims to have knowledge in

secrets and matters of the future. Arabs had Kahin during the time of
Jahiliyyah, sorne who claimed that they have servants from the lino who
conveyed news to them and sorne that claimed to know the unseen
because of certain signs and indications they knew of. They claimed they
could use these signs to find out where stolen things were, for example, or
where lost animals were.
'Umar Al-Faruq c» JI <f"'J warns against believing in soothsayers ... 36

No man should have a private audience with a woman (whom he is not

aJlowed to meet alone), for Satan wilJ be the third party present with
them. A sign of one's being a Muslim and a believer is that he is
displeased if he commits a sin and pleased if he performs a righteous
action. The worst matters are innovations (in the religion), and verily,
being moderate with regards to performing the Sunnah is better than
striving in an innovation (Bid 'ah). Hold yourselves accountable befare
you are held accountable, for this makes the recompense easier. Weigh
yourselves before you are weighed and prepare for the Day of Grand
Gathering. On that Day you shall be brought to Judgement and not a
secret ofyours will be hidden.
Hold to this Qurán, for there is light and healing in it and misery
otherwise. 1 have indeed fulfilled my duty with regards to what Alláh
has endowed me with ofyour leadership and given you sincere advice.
1 say this and seek Alláh's forgiveness for me and you."!

I Ad-Din Al-Khalis, by AI-Hakim and Ibn 'Asakir, vol. 4, p. 271 Also refer
to Al- 'Iqd Al-Farid, vol. 4, p. 130
A Sermon by {he Fifth Righ{ly Guided Caliph, 'Umar bin Abdul-Aziz 37

A Sermon by the Fifth Rightly Guided Caliph,

'Umar bin Abdul Aziz
In the first sermon 'Umar bin Abdul Aziz delivered after becoming a
Caliph, he praised Alláh and invoked Him for peace and blessings
upon His Messenger ss. Then he said:
"O people! Correct your inner selves and your outer selves will
be corrected, as well. Set aright the affairs of your Hereafter and
your life will be set aright for you. Verily, someone who does
not have any living father between him and Adam is indeed
close to death!"
The Virtue of the Statement there is La Iltiha illalltih (No deity is
worthy ofworship except Alláh)
All praise is due to Alláh, Who opened the doors of knowledge to
those who strived in His worship by granting them the key that is Lá
iláha illalldh (there is no deity worthy of worship except Alláh). He
resurrected the hearts of the knowledgeable worshippers and filled the
cups ofthose who always remember Him from the fountain of Lá iláha
illalldh. He perfected the creation, brought them into existence and
sealed this perfection with Lá iláha illalldh. He Who created the fetus
from a worthless fluid (semen) so that mankind may worship Him with
Lá iláha illalláh. He has sent the Messengers to deliver the good news
ofthis Word Lá iláha illalláh and warn against whatever contradicts it;
they called all mankind to adhere to its implications. Lá iláha illalláh
is the pillar of the religion and the Thick Rope of Alláh; those who
adhere to Lá iláha illalláh will never earn failure. Verily, the minds of
the ignorant ones were led astray and the hearts ofthe stubborn infidels
have earned misguidance on account of their taking two gods, even
after the full moon of Lá iláha illalldh has risen.
1 thank and praise Alláh for making us among the people of Lá iláha
illalláh and 1 bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship
except Alláh Alone Who has no partners. 1 bear witness that
A Sermon by the Fifth Rightly Guided Caliph, 'Umar bin Abdul-Aziz 38

Muhammad is Alláhs slave and Messenger through whom Alláh has

resurrected what faded away of the aspects of Lá iláha illalláh. Yet,
Alláh said to His Prophet ~:
"'~í
"It -1\ :cl\ '1~t -í~t}..r
!;.!:-.) ~

"So know (O Muhammad ~) that Lá iláha illalláh (none has the

right to be worshipped but Allah)."(47:19)
Muhammad ~ embraced this word and declared it, all the while using
it as the basis of giving loyalty or showing enmity. He said in an
authentic Hadith:

~ I~ lÁ)(j I;~ .''&1 '11'..11:1 1)A J;- dO! ytfl0r ::..:.:i))

.<1''&1 '11'..11:1
••
~.' '11'-~k
~ r- Y'
¡,j><-J~
+.~'~
J~" ~

"1 have been ordered to fight the people till they say: 'None has
the right to be worshipped but Alláh.' And if they say so, then
their blood and property will be sacred to me, except for the
right of Lá iláha illalláh (such as executing the murderer,
stoning the adulterer, and so forth)."
The Prophet ~ called to Alláh in secret and public, by night and by
day, until the unjust veil that shielded Lá iláha illalláh was removed. O
Alláh! Send Your best peace and blessings on Your slave and
Messenger, Muhammad ~, and on his progeny and Companions who
protected Lá iláha illalláh with their own lives.
"O people! Fear Alláh the Exalted and renew your faith by night
and by day by contemplating the indications of Lá iláha illalláh.
O you who have wisdom and fruitful efforts, seek your means of
success that is only granted to the people of Lá iláha illalláh.
Surely, Lá iláha illalláh is the Word of Islam and the key to the
Dwelling of Peace (Paradise). Verily, the heavens and earth
would never have remained, nor would performing the
necessary and recomrnended :Sunnah acts avail, nor would
anyone acquire safety on the Day of Gathering except by Lá
ildha illalláh. The swords of Jihád would not be held, nor the
A Sermon b.v the Fifth Rightly Guided Caliph, 'Umar bin Abdul-Aziz 39

Messengers be sent to the slaves, except to teach them the

meaning and practices of Lá iláha illalláh. This is when
humankind divided into two parts and went two separate ways: a
group of them adhered to Lá iláha illalláh and the other group
strayed away from it. They refused it because they knew that the
religion of their ancestors would be annuIled if they embraced
Lá iláha illalláh. AH praise is due to He Who made His slaves
different from each other with His Wisdom and Will. Indeed,
this is one of the proofs to Lá ildha illalláh. Tuba (a tree in
Paradise) is for those who know the meaning of this
Testimonial, agree with it and practice its implication inwardly
and outwardly. By doing so, they would be realizing and tasting
the true essence of Lá iláha illalláh. Verily, woe to those who
were driven by the devil to faIl into polytheism. They became
fiIled to the top with associating others with Alláh in worship
and consequently refused with arrogance to submit to Lá ildha
illalláh. Have you not heard Alláhs Statement:
,,{'';j::·,J./~~it' ~ '~I~:;¡'~lí'-" / , J . . / / ·~í~'I·-:"/:J..
"'t:.J .r'J'-:r';...Li".:.r"" A'J,)~'-.;..JY'~~-::!J ~lJT

"And those whom they invoke instead of Him have no power of

intercession - except for those who bear witness to the truth
knowingly (i.e., believed in the Oneness of Alláh, and obeyed
His Orders), and they know (the facts about the Oneness of
AIliih)." (43:86)
The true essence of Lá iláha illalláh entails directing aIl acts of
worship, intentions and thoughts to Alláh Alone rather than any other
worshipped object. AIl other objects of worship annuIled and refuted
by Lá ildha illalláh. This is what is meant by disbelieving in Taghut
and believing in Alláh Alone, and this is how the heart is purified of
anything that is not for Alláh Alone, and cleansed from the intention to
commit whatever Alláh has prohibited or dislike for whatever He has
commanded. This is the true essence of Lá ildha illalláh, contrary to
the practice of those who utter this testimonial with their words, but
contradict it with their actions. These people, do not benefit from
A Serrnon by {he Fifth Righ{ty Guided Catiph, 'Urnar bin Abdut-Aziz 40

saying La iláha illal/ah.

Directing any act of worship to other than Alláh and associating any
among the creation with Him in worship are acts of disbelief, even if
one pronounced La iláha illalláh a thousand times with his tongue. It
was once said to Al Hasan Al-Basri:
"Sorne people say that those who proclaim La ildha illalláh shall
enter Paradise." He said, "Yes. For those who proclaim this
word and fulfill its implications and requirements, then saying
La iláha illalláh shall enter them into Paradise."
In addition, Wahb bin Munbih asked:
"Is not La iláha illalláh the key to Paradise?" He said, "Yes.
However, every key has teeth; if you use a key that has teeth it
will open for you, otherwise it will not open."
Therefore, these types of people will not benefit from proclaiming La
iláha illalláh because they do not say it from their hearts. We advise
you, o Muslims, to never think that Shirk (Polytheism, which
contradicts La iláha illalláh¡ is far away from you, because there are
tremendous hindrances and lures that seek to corrupt the sincerity of
your uttering La iláha illalláh.
Where are those who associate none with Alláh regards to love, fear,
hope and worship? Where are those who direct their humbleness,
submissiveness, reverence, intention and reliance to Alláh Alone, all
the while trusting in Him for each and every thing? AH these qualities
are parts of the meaning of La iláha illalláh. o slaves of Alláh, rush to
the forgiveness of your Lord and a paradise as wide as the heavens and
earth prepared for the Muttaqin (the pious). They are those who fulfill
the duties and responsibilities of La iláha illalláh. They are those, who
have not placed any other iláh (god) along with Alláh. Verily, I am a
plain wamer to you from Him. Hold on to the pillars of La iláha
illalláh. Surely, those who reject what La iláha illalláh rejects, assert
what it asserts and offer their loyalty or enmity on its account, then this
word will elevate them to the highest grades the grades of La ildha
illal/ah:
A Sermon by the Fifth Rightly Guided Caliph, 'Umar bin Abdul-Aziz 41
.

~'~j~;~í~~~ :;'-1l G~'¡ d;.;g:fL:ité1Jír~r.f ~

"The Day that Ar-Rúh [Jibril (Gabriel) or another angel] and the
angels will stand forth in rows, they will not speak except him
whom the Most Gracious (AIHih) allows, and he will speak what
is right." (78:38)
May Alláh direct us all to the blessings of the Noble Qurán and
benefit us in whatever is in it of the Áyát and Wise Dhikr. 1 say this
and ask Alláh the Great, and the Most Honored for forgiveness for me,
you and all Muslims for every sin. Seek His forgiveness, for He is the
Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.'
A Sermon warning against Shirk and its Causes
All thanks are due to Alláh, Who did not create Jinn and mankind
except that they should worship Him Alone. He did not grant them
with His Favors except that they should praise Him. He has not
revealed His Books and sent His Messengers to them except that they
should know Him (by His Names and Attributes). 1 offer thanks and
praises to Alláh coming from a slave who fears Him and hopes in Him.
1 bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except Alláh
Alone without partners, Who is never asked about what He does while
He will ask His creation about all that they do. 1 bear witness that
Muhammad is Alláhs slave and Messenger who called his Ummah to
Tauhid (Islamic Monotheism) and commanded them to fear Alláh and
avoid His Wrath. a Alláh! Bestow Your peace and blessings on Your
slave and Messenger Muhammad, his progeny and his Companions
who aided and helped him.
a people! Fear Alláh the Exalted and feel His Watch over you. Obey
His Commandments and never commit disobedience of Him. Know
that Alláh has not created you but to worship Him, and only ordered
you to abide by His Tauhid and Lordship.
Tauhid asserts Alláh's Oneness in worship, and it is the religion that all

! One the sermon of Shikh Al-Islam Muhammad bin Abdul Wahha111 ....... ~.
Al-Khutab Al-Minbariyyah, p. 36
A Sermon by [he Fifth Rightly Guided Caliph, 'Umar bin Abdul-Aziz 42

of Alláhs Messengers ¡)L.JI ~ were sent with to His slaves. Prophet

NOh (Noah) was the first of these Messengers, and Alláh sent hirn to
his people after they fell into Shirk (Polytheisrn) and sin. They used to
revere righteous people and worship thern instead of Alláh, the Most
Honored. The last of Alláh's Messengers was Muharnrnad ~, the
honorable Prophet who shattered the irnages that were rnade in the
shapes of worshipped righteous people. By this action falsehood
vanished and the truth carne forth plain and clear. Alláh sent hirn to a
people who perforrned acts of worship, Hajj and charity. They
rnentioned Alláh often in Dhikr, as well. Yet, they elevated sorne of the
creation to the rank of intermediaries between thern and He Who has
perfect knowledge of the seen and the unseen. They clairned that by
doing this, they sought to draw close to Alláh by the intercession of
these worshipped objects

~0.rA~
"And they worship besides Alláh things that harrn thern not, nor
profit thern, and they say: 'These are our intercessors with
Alláh.' Say: 'Do you inform Alláh of that which He knows not
in the heavens and on the earth?' Glorified and Exalted is He
aboye all that which they associate as partners (with Him)!"
(10:18)
Hence, Alláh sent Muharnrnad ~, to renew the aspects of the religion
of their father, Prophet Ibrahirn ¡)L.JI ..,k, which had faded away. He
was sent to assure thern that worshipping and invoking are the
exclusive rights of Alláh over all slaves. No part of worship is ever
directed a prophet, angel or any other arnong the creation.
Therefore, O slaves of Alláh, fear Alláh and irnplernent your faith by
adhering to the irnplications of La iláha illalldh, before a Day when
one will be confronted with all that he did. Verily, on that Day none
will benefit any other, except by Alláh's permission and pleasure.
A Sermon by the Fifth Rightly Guided Caliph, 'Umar bin Abdul-Aziz 43
// // ./// /' " a. "./ // /: .. ~ .... ,;'
"",,~~·)'v)')'·" ~'\)"""I::'U~~¡/ \' t -í""\' "I;,J¡-: \.... "t\~r~
~¡)-".J"':!\.,.)b .y~~ ~rl9j,,",')O J.:..\~ LIY'';:'-'''''rr~ U..J 7'

ji ol~1~t:,):J~'1Jl~ O\J:.t~~;lSí;~~~~D~~O(q rr

,,. .......... c::. /.;" '" Jo ,/ t . . . . . . » . . . 'f -;;......... / Jo ,/-:

/"g/ ,///~ *,//";'

~.:rJ~:;'\' '.p ~I ~k4 ')11 O\~,~.)~~I¿,l..J.J-.\ ~\ ~~J.f:J-;l

Á.\'''''¡í'';'' -: "~",, "I"-:)'.í~()'í ~N '~í
~~ -r.:: ~~ ~..J1...>f" u~ fJ-Y'.J..J 4.lI
"And the mosques are for AlI<1h (Alone), so invoke not anyone
along with Alláh. And when the slave of Alláh (Muhammad ~)
stood up invoking Him (his Lord - Alláh) in prayer they (the
jinn) just made round him a dense crowd as if sticking one over
the other (in order to listen to the Prophet's recitation). Say (O
Muhammad ~): '1 invoke only my Lord (Alláh Alone), and 1
associate none as partners along with Him.' Say: "It is not in rny
power to cause you harm, or to bring you to the Right Path." Say
(O Muhammad ~): 'None can protect me from Alláhs
punishment (if 1 were to disobey Him), nor can I find refuge
except in Him. (Mine is) but conveyance (of the truth) from
Alláh and His Messages (of Islárnic Monotheism), and
whosoever disobeys Alláh and His Messenger, then verily, for
him is the fire of HelI, he shaIl dweIl therein forever." (72:23)

May Alláh direct us and you to the blessings of the Glorious Qurán
and benefit us and you in whatever is in it of the Ayat and Wise Dhikr.
1 say this and ask Alláh the Great, Most Honored for forgiveness for
me, you and aIl Muslims for every sin, so invoke Him for forgiveness,
for He is the Most Forgiving, Most Merciful. 1

1 Al-Khutab Al-Minbariyyah, One of the sennon of Shaikh Al-Islam

Muhammad bin Abdul Wahháb, p. 56
Chapter 2

The 'Aqeedah

(Islamic Creed)

The Meaning o/ Lá ildha illalláh and its Requirements 48

professed.
Lá iláha illalláh asserts that none has the right to be worshipped except I
Alláh and that all those besides Him that are being worshipped are
false deities:
~~í~í';;;fJ~I;JWíb~ ZJ;'~~ r1;~í ';¡títt;.~~ ~
"That is because Alláh, He is the Truth, and that which they

invoke besides Him is Al-Bátil (falsehood, Satan and all other

false deities); and that Alláh, He is the Most High, the Most

Great." (31 :30)

Testifying that there is no deity worthy of worship except Alláh

requires associating none with Alláh in worship. Declaring this
Testimonial dictates disowning all worshipped objects besides Alláh
and dedicating all acts of worship to Him Alone, consequently,
adhering by al! that He has ordained and abandoning all that He has
forbidden. This is why when the Prophet ~ said to the pagans, "Say:
Lá iláha illalláh," they understood that this Testimonial req uired them
to worship Alláh Alone and abandon worshipping the idols. They
refused to declare the Shahadah and rejected it outright, saying:
-il; i/. ".:¡~ ~
u- .;.u;:-IJ .~: \Dí ..,.......IJ
i -""í J/ ~ -::í (··í~ O ~Cé ! ./.í ¡~ u~
. . ¡,g-
~ ¡ I~. ;' I':.>Í¡ ~;l ~ií í-:~1 J..
~'J '<t-'" 'Ul," ~ '}"

~ J./ ." ~ -/ ...." ... ,,, ./ ./.!.:.e,)

~~\ l'l \b5l~~ IhJI ~ \4 ~G O~~ -::~ \~¿l~\~

"Has he made the álihah (gods) (all) into One Ildh (God ­

Alláh). Verily, this is a curious thing!" And the leaders among

them went about (saying): "Go on, and remain constant to your

álihah (gods)! Verily, this is a thing designed (against you)! We

have not heard (the like) ofthis in the religion ofthese later days

(i.e., Christianity). This is nothing but an invention!."(38:5-7)

This is the meaning of Lá iláha illalláh. Muhammad ~ made the gods

only one God, with the implication being abandoning worshipping all
deities except Alláh. The Mushriks (Arab pagans) understood this
meaning, for they were eloquent Arabs. However, those who revere
graves in the present time do not understand the true essence of Lá
iláha illalláh, and this is why they worship the dead. Hence, the
 The Meaning o/ Lá iláha illalláh and its Requirements 49

Mushrikun of old were more knowledgeable than they in the true

1 meaning of Lá iláha illalláh and its indications. These Quburiyyun
I (Muslims who worship graves) say Dhikr Lá iláha illalláh, yet invoke
Ali, 'Husain or Abdul Qadir AI-Jilani when distressed. They call on
the dead and supplicate to them to send them aid and relief from
disasters. They circumambulate around their graves and sacrifice in
their names. What does Lá iláha illalláh mean to these people and
what benefit does pronouncing it bring them? Verily, they are a people
who understand not.
.c ';p -:-: -;&í ¡ »>:
),.
~~ ~1'

"They have forgotten Alláh, so He has forgotten them." (9:67)

And:
,¡ /.~IL-i'I"'·-;'ií '''...í)o~'\''~ l/'~)o"')o ·~í/"'·~),.
~~~ r.r ..;~ J 4ll.!J--" t:- \ .CI ..r'..J>o+''-..:..-I'¿ l'
"The evil of their deeds is made fair-seeming to them. And
Alláh guides not the people who disbelieve." (9:37)
0, slaves of Alláh! Lá ildha illalláh requires establishing the prayer
perfectly and on time, for it is the second pillar of Islam after the Two
Testimonials. Alláh the Exalted said:

~~~í ~ p3;'~ ~jb)í r;; \:~ ~JÍ"'h1í L?dt; j;G ~~ ?

"But if they repent [by rejecting Shirk (polytheism) and accept
Islamic Monotheism), perform As-Saldt (lqámat-as-Salát) and
give Zakát, then they are your brethren in religion. "(9: 11)
Also, among the implications of Lá iláha illalldh is that Muslims are
required to pay Zakdt, fast (the lunar month of) Ramadhán, perform
Hajj to the House (the Ka'bah at Makkah) for those who can afford the
journey, fulfill the obligations and refrain from the prohibitions. For
instance, Abu Bakr As-Siddiq <es- 1\ ...?.J and the Companions fought
those who refused to pay the Zakát, even though these rebels used to
say Lá iláha illalláh. The Companions declared that paying the Zakát
is among the requirements of Lá iláha illalldh. It was once said to AI­
Hasan Al-Basri, "Sorne people say that those who proclaim Ld ildha
The Meaning of Lá iláha illalláh and its Requirements 50

illalláh shall enter Paradise." He said, "Y es, those who proclaim it and
fulfill its implieations and requirements, then saying La ildha illalláh
shall enter them into Paradise."
AIso, Wahb bin Munbih was asked:
"Is not La iláha illalláh the key to Paradise?" He said, "Yes.
However, every key has teeth, and if you use a key that has teeth
it will open for you, otherwise it will not open."
O Alláh's slaves! Just as Shirk contradiets and annuls La iláha illalláh,
also all other sins less than Shirk deerease frorn its essence and rewards
aeeording to the sin committed by the slave. Therefore, the Muslim is
required to declare that there is no deity worthy of worship except
Alláh, acquire knowledge in this Testimonial' s implications and abide
by it inwardly and outwardly. Alláh said:
,,{-- »,.,.», ~::::Tí ' , --jl~:--¡'~.Ií .» , / ».; /'" jí~ll·'...:í/}'"
"'{w~r-"'J~~~0'"J ; ' A'J.)~'-.:.)Y~~; ~ JJ T

"And those whom they invoke instead of Him have no power of

intercession - except for those who bear witness to the truth
knowingly, and they know."(43:86)
Bear witness to the truth knowingly, mean s, "They declared that none
has the right to be worshipped except Alláh." To continue, " ... and they
know" means, "Their hearts know the truth of the Testimonial that
their tongues have uttered." Therefore, fear Alláh, O Alláh 's slaves.
Know the true meaning of this Testimonial and abide by it. It is not
sufficient to merely declare the Shahadah without knowing its
meaning and abiding by its implications:

~~-,~~t1~lJl;¡;3~~z:¡;j. ~l ~;'3 ~~ ~ \~i/J t J t

"And We did not send any Messenger before you (O
Muhammad ~) but We revealed to him (saying): La iláha illa
Ana [non e has the right to be worshipped but 1 (Alláh)], so
worship Me (Alone and none else)."(21 :25)
May Alláh direct us and you to the blessings of the Glorious Qurán
and benefit us and you in whatever is in it ofthe Áyat and Wise Dhikr.
The Meaning ofLa ildha illalldh and its Requirements 47

The Meaning of Lii iláha illalliih

and its Requirements
AII the praises and thanks be to Alláh, Who has not begotten a son (or
offspring), and Who has no partner in His Domínion. He do es not have
a Wali (helper, protector or supporter) against lowliness. I magnify
Him with all magnificence [Allahu-Akbar (Alláh is the Most Great)]. I
bear witness that there ís no deity worthy of worship except Alláh
Alone without partners, and Alláh is glorified and praised from what
the unjust infidels say about Him. I bear witness that Muhammad is
Alláhs slave and Messenger, whom Alláh has sentjust before the Last
Hour as the Brínger of glad tidings, a Warner, a Caller to Alláh by His
permissíon and a light of guidance. May Alláh's peace and blessings
be on Muhammad, his progeny, his Companions and all those who
follow and obey him until the Day ofResurrection.
O people, fear Alláh and obey Hím. O slaves of Alláh! The first pillar
in Islam is Ash-Shahadatain (the Two Testimoníals): La iláha illalláh,
Muhammadun Rasulullah (there ís no deíty worthy of worshíp except
Alláh and Muhammad ís the Messenger of Alláh), Thís ís the first and
most important píllar on whích the rest of Islam' s píllars are
established and from which all ofthe religion's rulings derived. Ifthís
base is firm and well established, the rest of the actíons wíll be set
aríght and accepted by Alláh, thus earning one benefit and rewards. If
thís base is not establíshed on a firm ground, all good deeds will be
ruined and become like scattered, floating partícles of dust, or like a
mirage in a desert that the thírsty thínks is water until he comes up to
ít, and he finds it to be nothing. Or it is like ashes scattered on a stormy
day. In this case ones good deeds will become a burden in this life and
a cause for sorrow and grief on the Day of Resurrectíon.
O, slaves of Alláh! The Two Testímoníals have meaning and
ímplications; those who declare them are required to acquire
knowledge in theír meaníngs and ímplications and to adhere by them.
Otherwíse, merely pronouncíng the Shahadatain will not avaíl the
 The Meaning 01 Lá ildha illalláh and its Requirements 51

1 say this and ask Alláh the Great, and the Most Honored for
forgiveness for me, you and all Muslims for every sin, so invoke Him
for forgiveness, for He is the Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.'

I Al-Khutab Al-Minbariyyah, by Shaikh Salih AI-Fozan, vol. 2, p. 7

lmplications 01 the Shahadah that Muhammad is the ... 52

Implications of the Shahadah That

Muhammad is the Messenger of Alláh

AII thanks are due to Alláh, Who has sent His Messenger Muhammad
with guidance and the religion oftruth, that He may make it superior to
all religions, and All-Sufficient is Alláh as a Witness. I hereby testify
that there is no deity worthy of worship except Alláh Alone without
partners, in submission to Islamic Monotheism. I also testify that
Muhammad is Alláh's slave and Messenger, may Alláhs peace and
blessings be on him, his progeny and companions.
O people! The Shahadah (Testimonial) "Muhammadun Rasulullah"
asserts that Muhammad ~ is a Messenger from Alláh and requires that
this testimony reside in the heart. There are four implications to this
Shahadah. They are obeying the Messenger in all of what he has
commanded, believing in the news that he has delivered, avoiding
what he has forbidden and worshipping Alláh only through what he
has legislated. Testifying that Muhammad ~ is the Messenger of Alláh
requires you to obey all of what he has commanded you to do, avoid
all of what he has disallowed for you, believe in aH of what he has
conveyed to you from Alláh (about the past and future) and draw
closer to Alláh only through the acts of worship that he has legislated.
You are also required to shun all types of innovations in the religion
and abandon all statements or opinions that contradict the Prophet's
Sunnah, no matter how knowledgeable those who said these opinions
and statements are. Each one of us will have some of what he says
accepted or rejected, except for the Messenger of Alláh, Imam Malik
said, "Each one of us refutes and gets refuted, except for he who is
buried in this grave," alluding to the Messenger of Alláh. Furthermore,
Imam Muhammad bin Idris Ash-Shaf i said:
"The scholars agree that whoever knows of a Sunnah from the
Messenger of Alláh ~ cannot abandon it for the saying of any
other person."
AIso, Imam Ahmad bin Hanbal said, "1 am amazed at some people
Implications ofthe Shahadah that Muhammad is the ... 53

who know the value of authentic Isnad (chains of narration that narrate
the Prophet's statements) yet embrace the opinión of Sufyan, while
A Ilah the Exalted says:
¿¡
~ >-'"-......'-'
;. \~\ !-\":;.>; > .i~; •.• p ~ .¿¡./;~~ I~-:/ ·~'I <l::·~"
...(c~. QI~~¡) ZQ,-".:r¡) \$:.¡J..u..)
I-'·· . . . ....J ...... \ ,.-......'~ ", .... / _ ..

"And let those who oppose the Messenger's (Muhammad's)

commandment (i.e. his Sunnah - legal ways, orders, acts of
worship, statements) beware, lest sorne Fitnah (trial, calamity)
should befall them or a painful torment be inflicted on them."
(24:63 )
Do you know the meaning of Fitnah? It means Shirk (in this Verse).
For one might reject sorne parts of the Prophets Sunnah and thus
rnisguidance resides in his heart and leads him to destruction. Alláh the
Exalted said:

~~tZ~t:;;0~j~í~\~t~ ,
"And whatsoever the Messenger (Muhammad ~) gives you,
take it: and whatsoever he forbids you, abstain (frorn it)." (59:7)
O slaves of Alláh, fear Alláh the Exalted, obey Him. Know that the
best Speech is Alláhs Book (this Qur'án) and the best guidance is the
guidance of Muhammad ~. The worst matters are matters of
innovation. For verily, every innovation is a Bid'ah, and every Bid 'ah
is a sin and every sin is in Hellfire. 1

1 Al-Khutab al-Minbariyyah, by Shaikh Salih Al-Fozan, vol. 2, p. 11

Necessity ofKnowing Alláh and His Tauhid 54

N ecessity of Knowing AIHih and His Tauhid

Al! praise is due to AJI:lh Who Alone is the Owner of the Attributes of
Grace, Greatness, Arrogance and Perfection in all respects. He endowed
His creation with the various favors and bounties. I bear witness that there
is no deity worthy of worship except AII:lh the All-Great, the-Irresistible,
and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger ~, the best Messenger
with regards to all good qual ities. O AII:lh, send Your best peace and
blessings on Muharnrnad, his progeny and his Cornpanions. O people!
Fear AII:lh and worship Him Alone, AII:lh created you:
·"0 f.:.l
'''C¿J /·'.if''?
. _... ":11~u-l!- :.J~
ií,::' ;í~ L;;/
'J r~

"And I (Alláh) created not the jinn and mankind except that they
should worship Me (Alone)." (51 :56)

AII:lh created the lino and mankind to worship Him Alone, repent to Him
and dedicate all their actions towards Him Alone. AII:lh created thern so
that they know Hirn and adrnit and declare that He is the Only Lord Who
created all that exists. He sustains and provides them with all their needs
and they all are totally reliant on Hirn. He created thern so that they know
and declare that He is the King and Owner of every thing in existence and
all kingdoms. To Him belong the Decision and the Judgrnent in this life
and the Hereafter and they all shall retum to Hirn. To AII:lh belongs the
only and final decision conceming the destiny of all things. If He wills
sornething, He merely says to it 'Be', and it is. AII:lh created the creation
so that they acquire knowledge in His Commandrnents, code of
punishment for various crimes and the appointed destiny He decides.
They all are subservient to His Will, because everything that occurs,
occurs by His Leave and Decision. Nothing bad or beneficial that He wills
to touch creation can ever be averted, nor could anything He averts be
made possible. He is our Maula (Helper and Supporter) and on AII:lh let
those who believe place their utmost trust. This way, creation will declare
with full submission to Alláh that He is the Lord and Master, Who
arranges the affairs of all things, with Whom the Decision rests. They will
also declare Muharnrnad ~ as His Prophet, Messenger, Bringer of glad
tidings and Wamer (of Alláhs torment), and Islam as their religion, path
Necessity of Knowing Alláh and His Tauhid 55

and way. Alláh created them so that they know and assert that He is Alláh,
none has the right to be worshipped except Him, Who has no partners in
the worship, just as He has no partners in the Lordship and Kingship. And
just as He Alone is the Creator, Sustainer and Disposer of all affairs, He is
the worshipped, praised and appreciated llah (God). And just as all
apparent and hidden bounties are a favor and kindness from Him, He
Alone is worthy of all praise, love and submission. lust as He is the One
Who granted creation affection, justice and perfect forrns and shapes, He
Alone is worthy of being their Lord and Maula (Master and Supporter).
He Alone has legislated for mankind an easy religion that directs to all
success, so seek and go on the Straight Path and draw closer to Him by
day and night. You have no other Lord, God or Sought Deity except
Alláh. There is no refuge or safety from Him, except to and with Him.
There is no reliance, except on Him regarding all affairs. Therefore, fulfill
the requirements ofyour subservience to Alláh inwardly and outwardly so
that you may earn sueeess. Seek His help and aid and trust in Him, so that
you might earn His Merey, If you ask, only ask Alláh, and if you invoke
for help, invoke none except Him. Verily, all ereation is poor and helpless
and in desperate need of the All-Rich Lord. I invoke Alláh to provide me
and you with the ehanee to thank and appreeiate Him, worship Him with
excellenee, love Him, aequire knowledge in Him and obey Him perfeetly.
We invoke Alláh not to deprive us of His Kindness on aeeount of our evil
deeds and acts of disobedience:
L:' ~:~.<:-Lí.t"\·~. -: jí-·~í~ ,.dí>~-i ~í >8~(~t; ~
"'Cu~[""'-'-'" r'~~J./:J~ / ("''':'..)!J • V" -r- _ r
"O mankind! Worship your Lord, Who ereated you and those who
were before you so that you may beeome Al-Muttaqún" (2:21)
May Alláh direet us and you to the blessings of the Glorious Qur'án and
benefit us and you in whatever is in it of the Áyat and Wise Dhikr. I say
this and ask Alláh the Great, Most Honored for forgiveness for me, you
and all Muslims from every sin, so invoke Him for forgiveness, for He is
the Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.'

I Al-Fawakih ash-Shahiyyah, by Shaikh Abdur-Rahman Al-Sa'di, p. 24

Necessity ofWorshipping Alldh Alone, and an Explana/ion... 56

N ecessity of Worshipping AIHih Alone,

and an Explanation of its Meanings
AIl thanks and praises are due to Alláh, Who created the creation to
worship Him Alone and ordained that He Alone be revered and
obeyed. 1 hereby testify that there is no deity worthy of worship except
Alláh, Alone without partners. 1 testify that Muhammad ~ is Alláhs
slave and Messenger, who had the most pcrfect slavery to Alláh and
fear of Him. Muhammad called to Alláh and performed Jihád as it
should be performed and stood in prayer until his feet were calious
from prolonged standing in prayer. May Alláh'« peace and blessings be
on Muhammad, his progeny, his Companions and al! those who
followed His Guidance.
o people! Fear AIHih the Exalted and contemplate the reason behind
your creation and what you were ordered to do. You were created to
worship Alláh Alone without partners, and this you were commanded:
".(u"_I?·~~~t~J7-·· ..~ ~~tO.:J"CJJ\
··C~Ú .'J ~ /1l:?~~ .'J
/.,íí~7i~\/:Qí:I/~~
~~. _~ :J~~,! ~V"; l..AJ r

"And 1 (Alláh) created not the jinn and mankind except that they
should worship Me (Alone). 1 seek not any provision from them
(i.e., provision for themselves or for My creatures) nor do 1 ask
that they should feed Me (i.e. feed themselves or My
creatures)." (51:56,57)
s: ~:::.t'tt·.t'\·¡. -: jí~·hí-: jí'~'¡ J.;¿í "Ó((~t; ~
"tl,)~(""--"" r~~LL ~f""""""".s~ {"~..)IJ . ~ "f: - r

"O mankind! Worship your Lord (Alláh), Who created you and
those who were before you so that you may beco me Al­
Muttaqún (the pious)."(2:2l)
And:
~ ..... '- Jo
~s~
, ;,~tíl~:-" .r -;tí('"
.YJ !Yy'J ~~ ~..J
."~ :~&.:llí~
_~ "_ ~ í!J.
~~ ~(:'\;¡\ ¡-.. it' ~
_~ .. .J~ J'­

~~'jiít:~
"And they were commanded not, but that they should worship
Necessity al Warshipping Allah Alane, and an Explanatian ... 57

AI1<lh, and worship none but Him Alone (abstaining from

ascribing partners to Him), and perform As-Salát iIqámat-as­
Saláti and give Zakát, and that is the right religion." (98:5)
The word Ebádah (worship) encompasses all of what Alláh likes and
prefers of apparent and hidden actions and statements. Therefore,
'Ebádah' entails all the slave's actions, whether performed by the heart
or body, and those pertaining to legal monetary transactions. Even
matters of habit beco me acts of worship when preceded by a good
intention. For instance, when one sleeps for the purpose of gathering
his strength to fast or stand in Qiyám (voluntary prayer) at night, sleep
wil1 become an act of worship. When one enjoys his wife sexually for
the purpose of purifying himself and her from illegal sexual activities
of all types, it wi11 become an act of worship.
8~ .;~~1 !/.&I J~J~ I)li ,t~ ¡J~ ~ ~j)) :~ ~\ Jli
.t- ~~\ i \//
~ u .r '-:1-. \-:: /;./ ·í '~'11 :Jli ~;'1
~ .s y r-: J .r:- \-:~~ ~J ~é~/ ~~~
yv.j..ro
- . «~~j 015 ~~I ~ ~j I~l ~~ ~Jj~
"When one ofyou has sexual intercourse with his wife, he earns
a Sadaqah (charity)." They said, "O Alláhs Messenger! We
enjoy our desires and also earn a reward?" He said, "Do you
believe that if one satisfies his desire il1egally, he would be
earning a sin? Likewise, if he satisfies his desire legally, he
earns a reward."
Muslim narrated in the Sahih that Sa'd ~.11 es"'J said that the Prophet ~
said:
. «t~ ~t;. fi ,~r-~;; ~l))
"Your spending on your children is a Sadaqah (charity)."
Furthermore, Imam Ahmad narrated that AI-Miqdam bin Ma'di Karib
~ 1\ es"'J said that the Prophet ~ said:

. ((¡;~ .!.ú ~ ~ ~ ~1 ~))

"Whatever you feed yourself, it is an act of charity from you."
Necessity 01 Worshipping Alláh Alone, and an Explanation ... 58

• ((~~I ¡:Y. .;Jl¡j~~j ~15 '111Ú,"¡:J ~I;"¡:J

"Whenever a Muslim plants a seed, then whatever of it is eaten
earns him a Sadaqah, whatever is sto len from it earns him a
Sadaqah, whatever beasts eat of it earns him a Sadaqah and
whenever anyone takes from it, it earns him a Sadaqah." In
another narration from Jabir "->- 1\ ~), the Prophet ~ said,
"Whenever a human, animal or bird eats from it, he will earn a
Sadaqah from it until the Day ofResurrection."
O Alláhs slaves! There are two types of 'Ebadah: the required and the
recommended. Sorne of the necessary acts of worship are performed
daily, such as the five daily prayers. Sorne acts of worship are
performed weekly, such as the Jumu 'ah (Friday Prayer), whiJe sorne
others come once ayear, such as fasting (the lunar month oí)
Ramadhán and paying Zakát. Sorne acts of worship are required once
in a lifetime, such as the Hajj and 'Umrah, for those who can afford
the journey. As for the recommended acts of worship, they are not
required within a fixed timeframe, such as the voluntary prayers after
the compulsory payers. AIso included are voluntary acts of charity and
fasting, except when there is a prohibition in performing any of these
acts at a certain time or place. Remembering Alláh by Dhikr of the
heart and tongue is among the recommended acts of worship at any
time, for Alláh the Exalted said:
.{~</X:>.n
~ _ /~ ~ 'f<;:"J
O~
-"
~~í¡¡r:J~(Jjíc;t¿
" "/ -"
~
"O you who believe! Remember Alláh with much
remembrance. And glorify Bis Praises morning and afternoon."
(33:41,42)
Necessity a/ Warshipping Alláh Afane, and an Expfanatian ... 59

..
~
/ ).~~
~
',.~ \~! '
u~·

"Then when the (Jumu 'ah) Salát (prayer) is ended, you may
disperse through the land, and seek the Bounty of Alláh (by
working), and remember Alláh much, that you may be
successful." (62: 1O)
.( .~ ~ '" ->:" //.4, «; ;".-.1 "' .p ~.,. ¿ J...
';."~'J\ ~.:N~"9 c:J\.fl'-' .};l\ 'j'\:'>1.J J;>~'JI.J y~<'-'J\ ~..; 0~ r
~.~~
~ .. L5""-'
;í;;:"\~~.J
"~"\-::';~í5
."
..t'X-:' Jí O
I.JJ"" •• ,:"C
"Verily, in the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the
alternation of night and day, there are indeed signs for men of
understanding. Those who remember Alláh (always, and in
prayers) standing, sitting, and Iying down on their sides."
(3: 190,191)
And:

"Therefore remember Me (by praying, glorifying). 1 will

remember you, and be grateful to Me (for My countless Favours
on you) and never be ungrateful to Me." (2:152)
Therefore, the life of a Muslim rarely has a moment without an act of
worship to perform or utter. Verily, those who lose these precious
moments, by not performing a type of worship, will have lost these
moments on the Day of Resurrection.
O Muslims! AIl acts of 'Ebadah are called as such and benefit those
who perform them if they are performed in sincerity to Alláh Alone
without Shirk (associating others with Alláh in worship), and without
Riyá' (showing off and seeking fame). Alláh the exalted said:

~~GLí ú.~í ~~ ~í o6;ílí ~ (a~~ít:~ ~

"So worship Alláh (Alone) by doing religious deeds sincerely
for Alláh's sake only. Surely, the religion (i.e., the worship and
the obedience) is for Alláh only." (39:2,3)

.!ll;''' ~ '~'í \~:.v ~ ,í -;;-Ií ¡). .Jo"';~ z,.~í

"JJ .YJ' ~y.-, ~ ~"J _~
~L:t_~
• "" iJ (!-''(';"1-.1, (-).1 L;" lo
.•,,;..J~.J l'
Necessity afWarshipping Alláh Afane, and an Expfanatian... 60

~j:'jiít:~
"And they were commanded not, but that they should worship
Alláh, and worship none but Him Alone, and perform As-Salát
and give Zakát, and that is the right religion." (98:5)
, II ..-: .,

0-'(~ ~ &~í O 5~~ Ft~ .; ~ ~~í O ~ j.;.;; ~

~5;-wí S';-:::}.J O
"So woe unto those performers of Salát (prayers)
(hypocrites). Those who delay their Salát (prayer from their
stated fixed times). Those who do good deeds only to be seen
(of men), And withhold Al-Má'ún (small kindnesses like salt,
sugar, water)." (107:4-7)
And:
..l(:J,..A;/.~c:.,.J
~ /,,u/ ' ú ~ t~'~~j::--í¡~¿':~
-' / • .,:..J ~ jJ-."---:(
~..J.Ú 6J)"
J l.
"So whoever hopes for the Meeting with his Lord, let him work
righteousness and associate none as a partner in the worship of
his Lord." (18: 11O)
Also, the Prophet ~ said in a Hadith:
• /Zl/'·t~/l.~~/
~ r-: J ; - 0'"
• .:l';1\ .~ .. L5'~'1\ ~c;t)): í~'.w\Jj;
• .r-' '-:' • .r"" es: iJ' .r ·

.
«(~, ./
r;J
'6/: .: W
f ~r .-.
"Alláh the Exalted said, '1 am the Most Rich from needing
associates. Whoever performs a deed in which he associated
others with Me in worship, 1 will discard him and his Shirk:"
And just as sincerity is a condition in accepting any act of worship, it is
also necessary to ímitate the Sunnah of the Prophet ~ in any act of
worship. The Prophet ~ said:
"t...:.J.;.·
.((~··'~c; 'í~/I.;;'~/}):
J Ji-' / ' . ...r::" J ; - 0'"
~J\j
-~
"Whoever performs an act that does not conform to our matter
(the Qur'án and Sunnah), then his act is rejected (or it is an act
of reversion)."
Necessity 01 Worshipping Alláh Afone, and an Expfanation... 61

o Muslims! Worshipping Alláh is the first necessary requirement from

the slave, for it is Alláhs right that comes before any other right. Alláh
the Exalted said:
-"'('/"':'lJJ.l:iV\{·-{"L.oI,,¡{('~..q/~W
"'\ //" "JI;.J • -» J
X¿í/.$ ~
!J.!J V r 'Yr
"Worship Alláh and join non e with Him (in worship); and do
good to parents." (4:36)
And:
-"'í~ ,-:,.:.\~,_
"'\
J.:J:iV ~~\ -q\ i'"'~~t~/
,J';.J _~ ~!J .
,-:-::/ *- ~
.~~Jvr

"And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him.
And that you be dutiful to your parents." (17:23)
There are many other Áyát on this subject. Moreover, Mu'adh -.:.>-.3J 1 .,?J
narrated:
... o, o....., h;' ...""

~
\;:.. ~t:..J1
,', <Y ,,' ~'~t:..J1
.),., ~, <Y ~
\;:'·'&1"" '-?! ~t ~~ \:;))_ : JLi ~
.i¡~ <' ;11 ~ t
~ u

1)~/<:~0'~Y\fi,.&\;j;.~~ :JLi .~~J;"~/.&I :~1¡~,.&\

,,"" ;. o..... ~ ..... o~ "" ", t' ..... ;."

. ((~ ~ ~ A') .; ~~ ') ¡JI ,.&\ ~ ~LiJ\ :;;.) ~ ~ 1.,5A

..... .... -'" .....

"The Prophet ~ said, 'o Mu'adh! Do you know Alláhs right on

the slaves and the slaves' right on Alláh?' 1 said, 'Alláh and His
Messenger know best.' He said, 'Verily, Alláh' s right on the
slaves is that they worship Him Alone and associate none with
Him in worship. The right of the slaves on Alláh is that He does
not torment any who associates none with Him in worship. '"
Worshipping Alláh Alone is required from all those responsible adults,
from the time he or she reaches the age of adolescence, until they die.
AIIah the exalted said:

~~í~t¿;'~~~t ,
"And worship your Lord until there comes unto you the
certainty (i.e., death)." (15:99)
And He said about 'Esa (Jesus), peace be upon him:
Necessity 01 Worshipping Alláh Alone, and an Explanation 000 62

~~~~~~~t~~~S1J ~
"And has enjoined on me Saldt (prayer), and Zakát, as long as 1
live." (19:31)
o slaves of Alláh! He who does not worship Alláh will become
Satan's slave,just as Alláh the exalted said:

~t o~j~;J,.t15~: ¡.líL~-I,"JF;\~~f:J~~ 31. ~

~ ~

~.; j::' .;.1~ \~.}.J4í

"Did 1 not command you, O Children of Adam, that you should
not worship Shaitdn (Satan). Verily, he is a plain enemy to
you. And that you should worship Me. That is the Straight
Path." (36:60,61)
He who does not worship Alláh worships his own lusts and desires.
L :í~~':'í~¡ ':1° // ~-:~\ ~~:í / /'<':lo.
.c"l:~.:.r4.ll ........ ~~~,~~~ <r~ ..
~lr

"Have you seen him who takes his own Just (vain desires) as his
ildh (god)? And Alláh knowing (him as such), left him astray."
(45:23)
He who does not worship Alláh, worships the life ofthis world:
~lJ~J~~l.~l.~;'j\~~ .~;;,.~;j\~~)): ~J~
.(( / .,/ '..í ~ '..í
...r'.J'..í -í
"Miserable is the slave of the Khamisah, miserable is the slave
of the Khamilah (types of clothes): If he is given, he is pleased,
but ifhe is deprived, he is not pleased."
Worshipping Alláh Alone without partners gains the slaves dominance
on the earth and immunity frorn all types of fears in this life and the
Hereafter.
Necessity 01 Worshipping Allah Afone, and an Expfanation... 63

"Alláh has promised those among you who believe and do

righteous good deeds, that He will certainly grant them
succession to (the present rulers) in the land, as He granted it to
those before them, and that He will grant them the authority to
practice their religion which He has chosen for them (i.e.,
Islam). And He will surely give them in exchange a safe security
after their fear (provided) they (believers) worship Me and do
not associate anything (in worship) with Me. But whoever
disbelieved after this, they are the Fásiqún (rebellious,
disobedient to Allah)." (24:55)
Dear Muslim, you give a promise to AIJah in every Rak'ah in your
prayer, when you read Alláh's statement:
¿(
~~
~ -::'': 2~( ~.!lG\
..: ,J. _~r
).
"You (Alone) we worship, and You (Alone) we ask for help (for
each and everything)." (1:5)
That you would worship Him Alone and seek His help Alone.
Consequently:
{;:L.~ Ct Jí ~'¡-:t j}5'1; ~
"And fulfil the Covenant of Alláh when you have covenanted."
(16:91)
May Alláh direct us all to the blessings of the Glorious Qur'án and
benefit us in whatever is in it of the Áyat and Wise Dhikr. 1 say this
and ask Alláh the Great and the Most Honored for forgiveness for me,
you and all Muslims for every sin. Invoke Him for forgiveness, for He
is the Most Forgiving, the Most Merciful.'

1 AI-Khutab AI-Minbariyyah, by Shaikh Salih AI-Fozan, vol. 2, p. 13

Essence ojImán (Faith) and its Signs 64

Essence of Imán (Faith) and its Signs

All thanks are due to Alláh Who judges by Truth and Justice and
guides whom He wills to the Straight Path. He decides all matters with
His Wisdom and ordains the religion, and He is the All- Wise, All­
Knower. He sent the Messengers as Bringers of glad tidings and as
Wamers, and revealed the Book to them to judge between people
conceming what they differ about. That was so that they judge by
faimess and give each his due right without exaggeration or
shortcomings. I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship
except Alláh Alone without partners; His is the kingdom, He is Worthy
of all praise and He is Able to do all things. I bear witness that
Muhammad is Alláhs slave and Messenger, may Alláhs peace and
blessings be on him, his progeny and all those who followed him with
excellence until the Day of Judgment.
O people! Fear Alláh the Exalted, offer your loyalty and support to Him
and He will grant you victory; obey Him and He will compensate you.
1:•.1 .}~ :::t-'~ .". 1,1 J ¡.,;"/,. ,.
~j':1\ ~~wl~;U1 Oj;-~~4íÍl6~;~';:~í 0.;:...·1; ~
!/.. " ~/JI.?_ ... \.. ,.".,,/,. T,' Jo/¡", . . ,;' --:::"'~J-", ........ ,. <>: "'0'» /~r

~ jJ!.J ~\ if l*J YJ...r--'~ !J-.rCJ .~]\ lJ:i1':J ó.J.GJI ~u

a .... : .....

~:J;:'Íí
"Verily, Alláh will help those who help His (Cause). Truly, Alláh
is All-Strong, AlI-Mighty. Those (Muslim rulers) who, if We give
them power in the land, (they) enjoin Iqamat-as-Salát [i.e. to
perfonn the five compulsory congregational Salát (prayers) (the
males in mosques)], to pay the Zakdt and they enjoin AI-Ma 'rúf
(i.e. Islámic Monotheism and all that Islam orders one to do), and
forbid AI-Munkar (Le. disbelief, polytheism and all that Islam has
forbidden) [Le., they make the Qur'án and Sunnah as the law of
their country in all the spheres of life]. And with Alláh rests the
end of (all) matters (of creatures)." (22:40)
O people! Imán (Faith) is not acquired by wishing and hoping. Rather,
Imán is the creed that resides in the heart and is implemented by
 Essence 01Imán (Faith) and its Signs 65

actions that substantiate its truth and essence by performing acts of

worship and avoiding sins. Each one of us is able to state that he is
Muslim and even claim that he is a Mu 'min (faithful believer). Each
one of us is able to declare that there is no deity worthy of worship
I except Alláh and that Muhammad ~ is the Messenger of Alláh. Even
hypocrites, who will dwell in the lowest depths ofthe Hellfire, mention
Alláh by their words. Hypocrites used to declare to the Prophet ss, "We
testify that you are the Messenger of Alláh." They also swore to the
*
Prophet and his Companions that they were with them, even though
they were against them. However, all these testimonies and vows did
not avail them in the least: here they are in the lowest bottorns of the
Fire below every Mushrik (polytheist), atheist, Jew and Christian! This
is because their vows and oaths did not come from hearts full of Yaqin
(sincerity), Imán, submission or obedience.
"'&...:...:>
"'\ -~;~1"
,J,l;" .§¡ ~>:
J..¡';
'''iV :tl3.;\~J~ ~"." ~6¡:' ~ :lo.
...J~... • ~0'"~ ifiJ.",

"And of mankind, there are sorne who say: 'We believe 10

Alláh and the Last Day, , while in fact they believe not." (2:8)
Imán requires strong and firm faith that bears the fruits of truthful
statements, righteous actions, love in the Cause of Alláh, sincerity in
performing Tauhid and obedience to His Messenger ;'i. Imán requires
strong resolve, liveliness, vigor, endurance and dedicating the heart to
what it finds hard: the obedience of Alláh and restraining the inner self
from what it covets and is a disobedience of Alláh,
There are several signs of Imán that Alláh has mentioned in His Book
*
and His Messenger detailed in his Sunnah, as follows. Alláh said:
'>:X ~\~ ¡-;./,,::.13 \~\" -»» "(; : 'í "~í ~ ("~ \~, ::'_j¡ ~ ~ ~"ií 01 :lo.
rt" o , - ,,- -~ bJ r-r-r ~J ~. ~ ...._~ -.....:.;~..,..... ~ .",

-: ~ ..' . ,~~-:/ ~/;J ~;r ~\\ ......:..,.l~

<.l~ ~.J.J o
/' ~~ /'~'
.Jo -' ~ >~~". ~/ ;t::_/ ~~\
O <.lY>~~.J iJ'J
..
_~
,...Ji", ~
¿( »" ,~; ~ '!" . t-: ~ , • ~ « , J. .... "" '>1':"" -: ~ ~> í P :í";¡" O
J

"'\~F~.J¿J o~J~:?~~.J,)r- U><.l~..,..... ~~J

\

"The believers are only those who, when Alláh is mentioned,

feel a fear in their hearts and when His Verses (this Qur'án) are
recited unto them, they (Le., the Verses) increase their Faith; and
they put their trust in their Lord (Alone); who perform As-Saldt
Essence 01 Imán (Faith) and its Signs 66

tIqámat-as-Salát¡ and spend out of that We have provided

them. It is they who are the believers in truth. For them are
grades of dignity with their Lord, and forgiveness and a
generous provision (Paradise)." (8:2-4)
Alláh also said:
l~/( /" .:Jít:ij~/
~ .. ~/
\ ~W(rWJ'~/
~. 7.~/ o\>.:l!)
~ >--:.I!/> -í~í/I-:/~
• ~ 4.r ~ o..;.".....:,..¡ji 1..0 .:lL, '1'

,11 ~ •.,:;(.-: ~ /~ ~~j / jí~/ 0-:' > •• ~./ '>/I~,/ I '>:/1".-:

(J. • :¡ r-r '.)1 ~..r'..-o-t.t-"'"<...:..J./ '.J ¡,)~ .....J ~~ ['1'" .)'.)1
I~ '{.Jo/, _ . /,.Jo "',,;J. ..... ~'f . . . ,. -0'.. l /,"''/ . -, . . r» //
1U:-<.t-= Lo! '-..:.-1~~, !JJJ. JJ O'-:..)j~r-AJ \ji\.,:;.J'; ~ /;.~
At.. /' !L1/.>~. . /'" .Jo ~/,1~{ ---;:-:";f~ ~-:
"'\~J..r=-~ r-A J'-:..)Y""'-: J (~Jo-" J' 0..r-­
"And whenever there comes down a Súrah (chapter from the
Qurán), sorne of them (hypocrites) say: "Which of you has had
his Faith increased by it?" As for those who believe, it has
increased their Faith, and they rejoice. But as for those in whose
hearts is a disease (of doubt, disbelief and hypocrisy), it will add
suspicion and doubt to their suspicion, disbelief and doubt; and
they die while they are disbelievers. See they not that they are
put in trial once or twice every year (with different kinds of
calamities, disease, famine)? Yet, they tum not in repentance,
nor do they leam a lesson (from it)." (9:124-126)
Therefore, dear Muslims, who amongst us has these qualities? Who
amongst us feels fear in his heart because of Alláh and Honors His
remembrance when He is mentioned? Who amongst us has his faith
increased and rejoices when the Áyat of his Lord are recited to him?
Who feels the delight of believing in the Áyat and applying their laws?
Who amongst us truly trusts in Alláh, rather than in any among the
creation? Who amongst us performs the prayer as it should be
performed, perfect1y and on time? Who amongst us gives from what
Alláh has granted him by paying the Zakát and helping the needy, the
re1atives and the poor?
When contemplating the condition of Muslims in the present time, we
find many Muslims who do not practice Imán or Islam, except
whomever Alláh wills among them to have faith. Generally, Mus1ims
Essence ofImán (Faith) and its Signs 67

have fallen into shortcomings, especially with regards to fulfilling

Alláh's rights, the rights towards each other and acquiring Imán and
Yaqin (certainty). Many Muslims all over the Islamic World do not
embrace the code of Islamic conduct or correct their actions, and many
of them were affected by the ways and immoral traditions of the
disbelievers. The impact of this appears on sorne Muslims who feel
doubt and hesitation in their hearts about Alláh's revelation, the
Prophet' s prophecies, existence of angels and Jinn and about the
authenticity of the Prophet's Message in general. Sorne of them even
doubt the existence of Alláh, the Lord and Creator! Glory be unto Alláh'
Would one doubt the existence of God, yet not doubt his own existence?
Who has created him then, if Alláh did not? This is the reason why we
witness many Muslims today whose hearts do not move if Alláh is
mentioned, as if nothing they heard should cause them humbleness.
Sorne Muslims do not increase in faith when Alláhs Áyat (the Qur'án)
are recited to them. Rather, they increase in wickedness and sin, mock
Alláhs Áyat and shun implementing them out of arrogance. Sorne
Muslims in present times do not trust in Alláh, but instead trust in
material possessions and this life. Thus, they do not seek wealth from
lawful resources, thinking that if they do, the opportunity to amass
wealth becomes less open. They strive to collect wealth from any
resource, whether allowed or disallowed. Sorne Muslims nowadays rely
on Alláh's enemies to secure their safety and peace, leading them to
obeying the disbelievers in disobedience to Alláh and His Law:
:~íJ"'-;'" ¿J;'¡J'\ ~ -:~ií"'~í-:--;"'~'''' •.. t ; ;."f.;r;.'\ ~::.'\ ...........f'\~l~

r- Jy-' . , _ -..s-,+,....-+' '-'}:' \A ~ ~ ~-r.:J I b- !J--U..J <-:.J.~ u... l'

j .... \~k; ......

1/ --; ~í -=:J1.::,
:...r-
L: i.~
~-f
r ¿,..ili
......... i \j :-i't, ~s O
lJJ..........-cr;. ....
'~í S:t'.J'"
..Jll-(t-'r,;r

.................... ~ ... ~ {íjí »» :1.. : (\ -:.;;-::: O .......,... ·\ . .í·.:: . . ::í.. "'-",Tí .r-:

~~J"':">-"~ ~ ~-" :J~~ /'~~tP-'..4I.l'.J-rJ ~

/- ;'.... /' "'.... ....
.k~ :.t ,~;;~ ~~.; 2lí ~, t L:.~ ~í ~\ ~s O ~)::;~1J
~~':~
"Verily, those who have turned back as disbelievers after the
guidance has been manifested to them - Shaitán (Satan) has
beautified for them, and (Alláh) prolonged their termo This is
because they said to those who hate what Alláh has sent down:
Essence ofImán (Faith) and its Signs 68

"We wil1 obey you in part of the matter." But Alláh knows their
secrets. Then how when the angels will take their souls at death,
smiting their faces and their backs? That is because they
followed that which angered Alláh and hated that which pleased
Him. So He made their deeds fruitless." (47:25-28)
We find that those Muslims who obey and follow their enemies in
matters that contradict Islamic Law do so because oftheir weak trust in
Alláh and theirstrong reliance on something other than Him! Theyare
amazed at the strength of Alláhs enemies and think that all power is in
their hands. They forget that He Who has created the enemies, is
indeed more powerful than they are. Had these people used their awe
by dedicating their trust in Alláh Alone, and sought the means and
ways of achieving triumph, such as abiding by Alláhs religion and
Law with regards to their affairs of life, they would find sufficient
strength. If they did this, Alláh would be with them, and whoever has
Alláh with him, will never be defeated:
l:..k . . . . . . I~ >~\ ~. ~ií ...y .;~~.Ií·~ Jl.S"
..... ....:.,.>1:> i''';'~ o;'..JJ ~ ~ y"
.~. >':_ ·>1 >-;;\ / Ó '
~ j~,.¡Jj ~~
1
j r
;;..

Á( ~
"{.!r.' ..
"Alláh is not such that anything in the heavens or in the earth
escapes Him. Verily, He is All-Knowing, All-Omnipotent." (35:44)
Nowadays, we find Muslims who neither join the prayer in congregation
nor preserve its obiigation. They do not attend the Jumu 'ah
(congregational prayer) at the Mosque and when they do pray, they do
not fulfill the prayer's pillars, conditions and Sunan (recommended
acts). They do not take special care regarding purity of (prostrating)
body, praying on time, completing the standing, sitting, Ruku' (bowing)
or Sujud (prostrating) calmly and with grace. Sorne people who say that
they are Muslims do not pray at all, and sorne of them mock the prayer
and those who pray. Sorne Muslims do not spend for Zakát or Sadaqah
from what Alláh has granted them, nor spend on those on whom they are
required to spend. Yet, such people spend lavishly on what does not
benefit them and on what Alláh had disallowed for them.
Muslims in these times are in a dire situation. We complain to Alláh
Essence of Imdn (Faith) and its Signs 69

from the evil that they have done and from theír abandoníng His set
limits and commandments. We complain to Alláh from their taking His
Law lightly, forgetting His remembrance, feeling safe from His plan,
ignoring the mission they were created to fulfill and indulging in
foolhardiness instead. This explains why enemies of Muslims have
power over them now and humiliate them, while controlling them
politically and economically. Muslims have become just like a flock of
sheep that hears nothing but calls and cries from their shepherd; they
are deaf, dumb and blind, and therefore they do not understand.
Indeed, we are all for Alláh and to Him shall be our return.
O Alláh! We invoke You while waiting to perform an act ofworship that
You have ordained on us as a favor from You. We invoke You by
asserting that You are Alláh, there is no ilah (god) deserving worship but
y ou, the One, the Sustainer. He Who neither begets, nor was He begotten
and there is none Iike unto Him. O You Who created the heavens and
earth, Owner of Power and Grace, the Ever-Living Who never dies, Who
sustains all that exists. We invoke You to make Imán dear to us, beautify
it and make it firm in our hearts. We invoke You to make disbelief, sin
and rebellion hated by us and to take us away from this evil path.
O A lláh! We invoke You to set aright the affairs of th is Ummah and
provide them with righteous rulers who abide by the truth and judge by
it. Grant us rulers who never fear the blame of anyone in their
implementation of Alláh law. Give us rulers who never favor their
relatives because of their relation or the strong on account of their
strength. We ask You to protect our religion and make us firm on it
until the day we die. You, verily You are the Most-Kind, Most
Generous. 1 say this and ask Alláh to forgive me and you.'

1 Adh-Dhiyaa al-Lami " by Shaikh Muhammad bin 'Uthaimin, p. 352

A Summary of{he Creed of{he Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jama 'ah 70

A Surnrnary of the Creed of the

Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jamii 'ah
All thanks are to Alláh, the Ever Living, the Sustainer, on Whose
Command and Justice the heavens and earth were established, and He
is Able to do all things. I bear witness that none has the right to be
worshipped except Alláh, Alone without partners in His Lordship,
Godship, or Names and Attributes. None is like unto Him and He is the
AII-Hearer, the AII-Seer. I bear witness that our Prophet Muhammad ~
is Alláh's slave and Messenger. He sent him to mankind and the jinn
as a Bringer of glad tidings, a Warner, a Caller to Alláh by His
perrnission, and a lamp that spreads light, O Alláh! grant Your slave
and Messenger Muhammad the best peace and blessings along with his
progeny, Companions and all those who folIowed them with
excelIence until the Day ofResurrection.
O Muslims! Fear Alláh, the Exalted, and obey Him and you will earn
success and happiness in this life and the Hereafter. Know, may Alláh
grant you His Merey, that the greatest requirement and duty on the
slave is to acquire knowledge of his Lord, religion and Prophet,
Muhammad ~. These are the foundations of Islam as described and
affirmed by the Messenger of Alláh in the Hadith of Jibril, peace be
upon him. We Muslims are required to know our creed, the creed of
the righteous and saved group who follow the Qur'án, the Sunnah and
the understanding of the Companions. We should learn itand teach it
to our children, relatives and the Muslim society at large. We should
understand the implications of the true Islamic Creed, accept them in
our hearts and believe in them, just as our Salaf (predecessors) and
those who followed their righteous deeds believed in them. Alláh
described the righteous and sincere way of invoking Him used by the
Salaf when they said:

~'-:::::'n.l~Jíe\<;~ b:.tj~í(:~~r;~:)~e\~~.J ~
"Our Lord! We believe in what You have sent down, and we
A Summary 01 the Creed 01 the Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jama 'ah 71

follow the Messenger; so write us down among those who bear

witness (to the truth, that La iláha illalláh - none has the right
to be worshipped but Alláh)." (3:53)
The correct Islamic Creed requires Faith in Alláh and worshipping
Him Alone in sincerity through what He legislated of acts of worship.
Alláh said:
Á."":-- { ,i:(\ '\.Jo. <: • JI" ,,-:J\ '\ }o}o"J "¡,,1 }o -:; .~ í L . (. ~:: ~-:'í/ ~
,ú~ ~~4.ll!J...y. I ~ ~Y"J¿:;' ~~ . ...I..Q.J..J v
"And verily, We have sent among every Ummah (community,
nation) a Messenger (proclaiming): "Worship Alláh (Alone),
and avoid (or keep away from) Tághút (all false deities, i.e. do
not worship Tághút besides Alláh)." (16:36)
Á."" /. l-Y'}o /" -:-1 ».J" • ~
,\.: .......!ilyr)'..J¿.ll\IJ~\.,. r
"Worship Alláh andjoin none with Him (in worship)." (4:36)
Also, in the Two Sahihs it is narrated that Mu'adh ibn Jabal ~.11 ~)
said:
~
~./ ~/J/./
.:X..J\ ~/
~./ ~ -?!B ~~ \:.;)) :;j(j ~
í::.. .&\ ~ ~ ;I¡ ~1 ~~
-~'-:f:'
:~
_ cr
01~Q\
".
í::'·.&I,~~~~
~/ v- J;
:;j(j \}o_í~}oJ':"J:/.&1
'".../
:::..H~.&\~~L;.J\
";,,,/
3 o / -; "" o...... ,,; o -' ". ... ;. o ,,; ;.

~ A ~ ~ ~~ ~ ¡Ji;&1 ~ ~~\ ~J \ ~ ~ 1.,5A ~J ~J~

-- -- -- /

" /

.((~~~
"1 was riding behind the Messenger of Alláh ~ on his donkey
when he said to me, 'O Mu'adh! Do you know the right Alláh has
on the slaves and the right the slaves have on Alláh?' 1 said,
'Alláh and His Messenger know best.' He said, 'Alláh's right on
the slaves, is that they worship Him Alone and associate none
with Him in the worship. The slaves' right on Alláh is that He will
not punish those who associate none with Him in the worship."
The Islamic Creed also asserts that Alláh is True, that the meeting with
Him and His Promise shall certainly come to pass, His Book is true,
His Messenger is true and Paradise and the Fire are true. In the Two
Sahihs it is narrated that 'Ubadah bin As-Samit «is- .1\ ~) said that the
A Summary Di [he Creed Di [he Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jama 'ah 72

Messenger of Alláh ~ said:

'J.?J) ~~ \~ 01) ,'J 4; '1 ~J;.J'41J1 'ir..]l '1 ¿¡t ~ ¿,.:.))
o o......" ...
/ ;1;•.w '¿"
Jo Jo J ¡;;/
~. »> / 1\ ~wi '~/ '..1 ,// 41JIJ.:S. ' ~k
~ / CJJJ~..r" ¡J""'~ ~
/0/ \

. J / J J-""JJ / . J

.((pi ~ ~l5 ~ fi G;J\'.&\'J;.~ ,;:;;. jLJI)

"If anyone testifies that none has the right to be worshipped but
Alláh Alone Who has no partners, and that Muhammad is His
Slave and His Messenger, and that Jesus is Alláh's slave and His
Messenger and His Word ('Be' and he was) which He bestowed
on Mary and a Spirit created by Him, and that Paradise is true,
and Hell is true, Alláh will admit him into Paradise with the
deeds which he had done even ifthose deeds were few."
Moreover, Muslims believe that the Last Hour is true and shall
certainIy come to pass and that Alláh wi 11 resurrect all those who lay in
graves. The Islamic Creed also asserts that the believers shall see their
Lord on the Day of Resurrection, just as they see the full moon.
This is our creed in Alláh: We believe that Alláh is the Lord Who has
perfect control over the affairs of all creation. He is the One Who
sustains all that exists with His apparent and hidden bounties. He gives
life and takes it away. He is the Ever-Living Who never dies. In His
Hands are the affairs of all things and He is Able to do whatever He
wills. We also believe in Islam as the only true religion and in
Muhammad ~ as Alláh's Prophet and Messenger.
Muslims believe in the angels of the Most Beneficent, who are
honorable slaves of Alláh, who never disobey any order that comes to
them from Him and fulfil what they are commanded. We believe in al!
of Alláh's Messengers (>\...J\ ~ and previous Books.
v:: ;"t!(''Í~'~~-::/o",.~ / ~ -'"'/";~ f~ (~}..
,Á,»
"'l:~~\r~J\BywiJ'~.UjU~~~7
"So believe in Alláh and His Messengers. And if you believe
and fear Alláh, then for you there is a great reward." (3: 179)
,~,~/ ~t ~/\~
-:» ~ // ~ .J .... ;, (JA
:t[; ~ ~~W "~':/' .c1\ j. 1~;. j~-' Oí
~
~.J .... ;..~ ~ ....... e. ~
~/\~ t
A Summary o/(he Creed o/ (he Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jamá 'ah 73

,.( ~ »>
,,\~~..)J

"The Messenger (Muhammad ~) believes in what has been sent

down to him from his Lord, and the believers. Each one believes
in Alláh, His Angels, His Books, and His Messengers. We make
no distinction between one another of His Messengers." (2:285)
We also believe in Resurrection after death, for Alláh the Exalted said:
¿4... ~s"" "?
,/ u """ .. /, ,;,; ;. • ,;' ... / /

~b\;~8í0t O~~ /~
.. " J
'i?" J; ~I; ¿o"ií ~;L;i: :"Jí;'::ól\
....j lf CTJ
_"" ~ "-!"" .. ....;~
Á

~J~í.j~ ~:;.1í0t~~~
"That is because Alláh: He is the Truth, and it is He Who gives
life to the dead, and it is He Who is Able to do all things. And
surely, the Hour is coming, there is no doubt about it; and
certainly, Alláh will resurrect those who are in the graves."
(22:6,7)
And:
,.(jj " ~'\ i~ -;'II-:"~I" ~~::',~í..-{:{"!:t .", :'i': o~ ~\'~"OjJ~ 1f¡-j-::(-' ...-j'I""" Á
"\~~ u-~\.).Jr·/ ~0r(~~..Jcr:'.f~· 0\'Jf-' ~~ j ,. r
"The disbelievers pretend that they will never be resurrected (for
the Account). Say (O Muhammad ~): Ves! By my Lord, you
will certainly be resurrected, then you will be informed of (and
recompensed for) what you did; and that is easy for Alláh."
(64:7)
We also believe in Al-Qadar (Preordainments and Predestination), the
good and the evil outcomes of it, and that everything occurs by Alláhs
Will and Permission.

"Verily, We have created all things with Qadar." (54:49)

Therefore, everything that occurs in this world was created in due
measure by Alláh and is encompassed in His Knowledge, including
harm, benefit, accidents, incidents, health, sickness, fertility, drought,
good, evil, happiness, misery, life and death; all occur by Alláh's
Decision and Will.
A Summary ofthe Creed ofthe Ahlus-Sz.nnah wal-Jamá'ah 74

We also believe in Alláh's Names and Attributes, just as He described

Himself in His Book and by the words of His Messenger ~.
~

~~í~.~:lí /-'/-: . ~ ~~ /1:l..

. /. ~ Y"J ~ // / ~ r
"There is nothing like Him, and He is the AIJ-Hearer, the
All-Seer." (42:11)
Surely, none is like AIIah, nor is there any equal, rival or anyone
similar to Him in any respect. Alláh is never compared to His creation.
He knows Himself best and has perfect knowledge of all things in
existence. He says the Truth and His Speech is the best and most
fruitful speech there is. He has encompassed all the most perfect and
magnificent Attributes in al! respects.
We believe that the Glorious Qurán is Alláhs Speech in truth, not
created. It started from Him and to Him it shal1 return in the end and
He revealed it to His Prophet ~.

~~.;ií ¿;.j JJ ~í ~
"Alláh has sent down the Best Staternent." (39:23)

~~~;tí~~~Z;J~
"And who is truer in statement than Alláh?" (4:87)
...
,i -:\ t~:;,.- alll/"
;j::._.~í
J~:'''' ~t -:'
"f.-rJ- >~~../V', u /
»»;:.-::\;-:' .:Jí/ ~
~ Loe J
"

"Those unto whom We gave the Scripture [the Taurát (Torah)

and the Injeel (Gospel)] know that it is revealed from your Lord
in Truth." (6:114)
We believe in everything that is mentioned in the Qurán and Sunnah
regarding what will occur after death, such as the joy or torment in the
grave and on the Day of Resurrection. These are reserved for the
believers, the criminal sinners and disbelievers respectively.
We believe in the Haudh (the fountain) that the Prophet jiii; was given.
We believe that his Ummah, the Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jamá'ah from
among them, will come to him at this fountain, which is whiter than
milk and sweeter than honey. Whoever takes one sip of it will never
A Summary oflhe Creed oflhe Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jamd 'ah 75

feel thirst afterwards. We also believe that the Sirat is the bridge over
Hell that every one must pass with speeds equivalent to their good
deeds. The sinners and disbelievers will fall from this bridge into HelI,
where only the disbelievers will remain for eternity.
We also believe in the Shafá' (intercession) of our Prophet Muhammad
~ in the Hereafter and that he will be the first to be given permission
from Alláh to intercede.
',(:J.O~\'
, /'"'~;.. -Jh:i~
e- ,/ ~~
L
L>.:Jí \~~ •r
..,/

"Who is he that can intercede with Him except with His

Permission?" (2:255)

~~J~--Jb0;:a~~'t~
"And they cannot intercede except for him with whom He is
pleased." (21 :28)
On that Day, Alláh will grant His Pleasure to the people of Tauhid and
allow them to intercede with Hirn (on behalf of sinners), but as for the
disbelievers, no Shafá' will avail them .
.i..-: . . ,~(\ Jo,,, ..... »s-:«,> J..
~~~~Wr
"So no intercession of intercessors will be of any use to them."
(74:48)
o Alláh! Allow Your Prophet to intercede with You on our behalf and
make happiness our final abode. O Alláh! make us among Your party,
the successful group, Your close loyal friends who will never have fear
nor ever grieve.
1 invoke Alláh, the Greatest, for me, you and the rest of Muslims for
His forgiveness from every type of error and sin we have committed.
So seek His forgiveness. Certainly, He is the Most Forgiving, Most
Mercifu1.
Significance of Obeying the Messenger # 76

Significance oí Obeying the Messenger ~

Al! thanks and praises are to Alláh, Who has prepared Paradise as a
favor and honor from Him for His believing slaves, and prepared
Hellfire, through His justice and wisdom, for the sinners and
disbelievers. 1 thank and praise Him as He should be praised and ask
for His forgiveness and pardon. 1 bear witness that there is no deity
worth of worship except Alláh AJone without partners and that
Muhammad is our Prophet, Alláhs slave and Messenger. May Alláhs
best peace and bJessings be on Muhammad the son of Abdullah, his
progeny, Companions and his fol!owers who convey and deJiver his
cal! untiJ the Day of Resurrection,
Alláh, the Exalted, the Able, Owner of the Most Honorable and High
Names and Attributes, said:
/ .w '" ". .,­
~1¡;j ~Í" '.b..~ Ú 'C("~; \~\ J >-::\\; .3.J i~
> -: "íi ':;I::' iií(~ts ~
.....:....; ~I -;;--,; - ~ r-' ' !> ).Y'f i j ; ; "..... r ~ 't': •

-<' >-:.~ dI ~.Í" ,.Ji"..

"-"'~-'~" _!>1
"ií -<"" j >;:&í
')-"..r""' ~ ~
') ;)..

"O you who believe! Answer Al/ah (by obeying Him) and (His)
Messenger when he (~) cal/s you to that which will give you
life, and know that Alláh comes in between a person and his
heart (i.e. He prevents an evil person to decide anything). And
verily, to Him you shall (all) be gathered." (8:24)
In this noble Áyah, Alláh calls His believing slaves by the best and
most honored description.
"-i ':;\:&jí(~b:;'
"'"..... -~ 't': - r~
"O you who believe!"
Reminding them of their Faith and good qualities that direct thern to
answer and obey Alláh's Order with fuI! acceptance and submission,
al! the while feeling afraid of Him. Alláh commands them:
..iJ >-:;\\" .1 i ~ -: 'í ~
"\).Y'''''''.J; ~ ~ r

"Answer Alláh and (His) Messenger (:~)."

Significance of Obeying (he Messenger jJi 77

Meaning, obey Alláh, remain on this straight path and be firm on what
He has legíslated and what His Messenger ~ brought from Him. You
are required to obey the commands of Alláh and His Messenger ~ no
matter what your circumstances or the hardness ofyour conditions. For
Alláh and His Messenger ~ have called you to that which will give
you life.
It is Imán (Faith), consisting of the Qur'án and Sunnah that we were
called to accept and embrace to ensure our life. This Áyah contains a
truthful statement and asure promise from He Who is Able to fulfill the
promise. Whoever accepts His call, then he or she will live a good Jife
full of honor and good works. Those who accept this call will1ive in this
life enlightened by the light of Faith that resides in the heart, as well as
being remembered and praised for their righteous qualities. In the next
Life they willlive for etemity and enjoy the everlasting delights.
~ . -
~íLG;_dl.-;t" G-,f~t:Qp~'1íg~LG)lf~:¡;~~,~l:;" ~
.
~~í
"Adn (Eden) Paradise which they will enter, under which rivers
flow, they will have therein all that they wish. Thus Alláh
rewards the Muttaqún (the pious)." (16:31)
Fear Alláh, dear Muslims, and follow His Messenger ~. Obey Alláh's
Commandments and avoid His prohibitions, whether you are feeling
active, lazy, in favorable or unfavorable conditions and even if one's
rights are not being given to them in full, Obey Alláh and His
Messenger ~ and establish Alláh's penal codeo
.c: >-:::: -btí ,.-i~íJ·t:;,N
,,\uJA--' r . ~ .-'. ~~\~iíj--tí--),.
.- .(""'-'-' r
"And there is (a saving oí) life for you in Al-Qisás (the Law of
Equality in punishment), O men of understanding." (2: 179)
Establish justice on Alláhs earth and between His slaves, each
according to the responsibiJity that Alláh has endowed him or her.
úJ.J(ií)
,.......Y,. r ,. ~~ ~;:--t.&
~y.J".,.
i'-~~,ut
,.,." ~;.~ ¡~ {--l~\:
,,"J'..7..Y .....,--- ú:,jí(~ti $.},.

....... '1: .. vT
Af.~ .-:'i.ií-­
"\~J:J ~
Significance 01 Obeying the Messenger :f!i 78

"O you who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to
Alláh, even though it be against yourselves, or your parents, or
your kin." (4: 135)
Establishing justice requires performing Jihád on the military and
social fronts, because your enemy, O Muslims, will surely attack you
on these fronts if you do not take the initiative. If the enemy invades
you militarily, they will adversely affect your livelihood, while their
social invasion will destroy your culture and morals. We seek refuge
with Alláh from this fate. Therefore, obey Alláh and His Messenger ~,
for those who do not obey them wi11 earn humiliation in this life and
the Hereafter. There is no doubt that since obeying Alláh and His
Messenger ~ is a light, its opposite is indeed, total darkness. Since
obeying Alláh and His Messenger ~ is life, then its opposite is death.
Since obeying Alláh and His Messenger ~ earns glory and might, then
its opposite is humiliation and disgrace:
Á.~ r»
"t..1..rJ' ~ ,AJ
"'fw~-:"'::í ..~~ ~
4lI.:n: ¡JO..J Y
"And whomsoever Alláh disgraces, none can honor him."
(22: 18)
O Alláhs slaves! The Most Just Ruler, Who is Most Compassionate
with His slaves, informs us in Áyah (8:24) that we mentioned
previously, that He has full control over the hearts of the slaves, and
He changes them as He Wills.

~L~~~~íGj~~ídl;í ;:~~
"And know that Alláh comes in between a person and his heart."
(8:24)
Al- Bukhari narrated from 'Áishah lp-11 ..?):
-';./J s; Jo ,; 'J;'''''' Jo o ..... ..­
. ((,-:",)A.l1 ~J ~ :/<ÓJI /.7"") ~ ..:...,;!S»
/ /

"The Messenger of Alláh used to swear often by saying, 'By He

Who changes the hearts! '"
The Áyah and the Hadith indicate Alláh's perfect ownership of our
hearts. He mentioned this fact after He commanded us to obey Him
Significance of Obeying the Messenger J/i 79

and His Messenger ~, warning us that refusal to heed by His call will
prevent one from the Straight and True Path and fram what the heart
likes and covets.
~~J~í&i~GL:ll,
"So when they turned away (frorn the path of Alláh), Alláh
turned their hearts away (frorn the Right Path)." (61 :5)
Fear Alláh, O Alláh 's sIaves, and feel His perfect watch, for your final
destination and return is to Him Alone. On that Day Alláh will reward
the good doers with a good recompense and the evil doers with evil. It
will be either a Paradise as wide as the heavens and earth prepared for
those who obey, or a blazing Fire, severe torment and evil recompense
for those who disobey.
Alláh said, and His Statement is the Truth:
~}·jí ~ (; ~ dj ~ ~ ~ 6Jt; ~í r-i) 1;0 ~~,
~. "" "".Jo "" /'
,,(~\--:ií /:/ ,~// '>'/1::/ ,-,dí~->
"Z ~ V""",)~~J 'J;,
·>,l~·i~<l.",,·S~
/ Yr .. '-' /;,1) ,,)J
~~/~
o/'

"For those who answered their Lord's Call (believed in the

Oneness of Alláh and followed His Messenger Muhammad :i
i.e., Islámic Monotheism) is Al-Husna? (i.e., Paradise). But
those who answered not His Call, if they had all that is in the
earth together with its like, they would offer it in order to save
themselves (frorn the torrnent, but it will be in vain), For them
there will be the terrible reckoning. Their dwelling place will be
Hell; and worst indeed is that place for rest." (13: 18)
1 reiterate this and ask Alláh the Exalted to grant us obedience to Him
and to His Messenger ~ and to make us firrn on the path that pleases
Him until the day we meet Him. We ask Alláh to forgive us and all the
believers, male and female, for He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. l

1 Ahadith Al-Jumu 'ah, by Shaikh Abdullah bin Hasan AI-Qa'ud, vol. 2, p. 127
Necessity 01 Loving Alláh and His Messenger ... 80

N ecessity of Loving AIHih and His

.Messenger ~ more than anyone else

I
Al\ thanks and praises are due to Alláh, and a11 aggression is against
the wrongdoers. May Alláhs peace and blessings be on the Final and
Last Prophet and Messenger. 1 thank and praise Alláh the Exalted and
bear witness that none has the right to be worshipped except Him
AJone without partners and that Muhammad is His slave and
Messenger. O Alláh! Bestow Your best peace and blessings on Your
slave and Messenger, our Prophet Muhammad, and on his progeny and
Companions until the Day of Resurrection.
Dear Muslims! It is not a secret to those who have sound
comprehension that Alláh the Exalted has admonished those who
dislike what He likes and like what He dislikes.

~~í<~i~¡¡~íjjJt~J~~~; t
"That is because they hate that which Alláh has sent down (this
Qur'án and Islámic laws); so He has made their deeds fruitless."
(47:9)
And:
~;+1,:;j ~~::-t,~;;'Jl;.~J~í~'tt:-~~í~~S
/ / ~
t
"That is because they fol\owed that which angered Alláh and
hated that which pleased Him. So He made their deeds
fruitless." (47 :28)
It is required from every responsible Muslim to love what Alláh and
His Messenger love and hate what Alláh and His Messenger ~ hate, so
that he or she acquires success, happiness and the greatest win ­
Paradise. There is no doubt that none will acquire the grade of the
Faithful Believers until and unless he or she loves what Alláh and His
Messenger love and hates what Alláh and His Messenger ~ hateo None
will earn Faith until he loves the Messenger of Alláh more than any
other among mankind, including one's family, offspring and a1l other
 Necessity DiLoving Alldh and His Messenger ... 81

men and women. In the Two Sahihs it is narrated that the Messenger of
Alláh ~ said:
",.. o ",.. ~,.. J-; "" , J -; ",.. "
oJ.l\" oJ.l" ~ ~ ..:Ji":';"l ¡J.<¡
'" J J " J J " ~'" ~. .r
-:.' ~.b-\ ~ ..'
cr": \ ~Y..
'j)) : ~
_"
Jlj
I .(¿,..~ ~ ,-",\.JI)
"None among you shal1 attain Faith until I become dearer to him
than his own self, his offspring, his parents and all other people."
Moreover, true love requires true folIowing and adherence, and this is
why Alláh the Exalted said:
\ -: >~ ~ -: :~\ J'".1''' h' ",'-n . . ~,....t'~ . . ~ I " ~.:í-:.:t... !~í .... \...... V" . \ .~ A
1..Ar=-t.PJ :,.o!J 7-'..&J ~:v'-' r--y.¿,J I~CJ~IJ r-)~" ¡Jll u"U"' r
.t_.J;..,// ~.I\ /,; ~.Jo~.'\ ""' . . . Tí.-:--::'·",·""",.{""./,/ I~""I/r/·/·~»// .. '
~~;U ~r---=:,,~\ ....¡,~j~J~~l...,) u?~'"
V::í/-t~"¡>~ ::-:'~.
",Ji .....
"'(<!rr ...uJ ~.~ ~flL......... s- ~¡~J

.. ,,-:-_,,
"Say: If your fathers, your sons, your brothers, your wives, your
kindred, the wealth that you have gained, the comrnerce in
which you fear a decline, and the dwel1ings in which you delight
are dearer to you than Alláh and His Messenger, and striving
hard and fighting in His Cause, then wait until Alláh brings
about His Decision (torment)." (9:24)
And:
-::"\"~ >J%»
~
Ji•'~ " »~"
~ .. • '.
-::~~>
-: u \"
.>.
.,
> -::í:
·1Í.ul:· • -. • \ .~
\• ~
.'Y~ ~J"'" .".~ ,J~ uj,..r

"Say (O Muharnmad ~ to mankind): If you (really) love Alláh,

then follow me (Le., accept Islámic Monotheism, follow the
Qur'án and the Sunnah), Alláh will love you and forgive you
your sins." (3:31)
The reason behind the revelation of this Noble Áyah is that the
Prophet's Companions said, "We love our Lord very dearly." So Alláh
declared to them that there is a sign that one really Ioves Him, then He
revealed this Áyah in the Qur'án. In the Two Sahihs it is narrated that
the Messenger of Alláh ~ said:

'41 0~ C,¡t : ~~~I ¡)5\;. ~ ~) ~ 05 ¿; ~~))

Necessity 01 Loving Al/ah and His Messenger ... 82
" ,,~ '" '1 ....." ,,~ ""
~~ 0\) ,/4 :.f4
--
':1 ~rJl ~ 0\) ,~Ir
,.,
u...... ~1..... ¿;'\~.J.?J)
.
"".9­

. (1)]1
.....
~.j~
..
~i ~~ ~~~~4\ ~Ji;i ~i ~).SJI Jl;~ ~1
..... .....

"Whoever possesses the following three qualities will taste the

sweetness (delight) of faith: the one to whom Alláh and His
Messenger ~ become dearer than anything else, the one who
loves a person and he loves him only for Alláhs sake, and
whoever hates to revert to disbelief, after Alláh has saved him
from it, as he hates to be thrown into the Fire."

Therefore, whoever loves Alláh and His Messenger *

truly from his
heart, this love will earn him or her the quality of loving what Alláh and
*
His Messenger love and hating what Alláh and His Messenger ;!i hate
and dislike. This lave or hatred requires one to adhere by its practical
implications. Also, if one does anything with his limbs that contradicts
the implications of love for Alláh and His Messenger ss, it will be a sign
that one did not yet acquire the standard of love and hatred obliged on
him or her. In this case, one should seek Alláh 's forgiveness and repent
to Him by avoiding the sin and striving to perfect the required love of
Alláh and His Messenger ~ in heart and action.

O Alláhs slaves! Know that all types ofsins result from preferring the
lusts and desires of the innerself to the love of Alláh and His
Messenger ~. The same is true about all Bid'ah (innovations in the
religion), which are started because of succumbing to lusts and
preferring them to Alláh's religion. Such is the case with sins, which
occur because of preferring desires to loving and obeying Alláh and
His Messenger ;!i. Surely, he whose love, hatred, giving and taking are
only for satisfying his desires and lusts, then this indicates a
shortcoming in his Faith concerning its necessary obligations. In this
case, one must repent from this path, revert to the Messenger's
Sunnah, prefer his love for Alláh and His Messenger ~ over his heart's
lusts and desires and do whatever earns him Alláhs pleasure.

Hence, it is necessary for every Muslim who has true Imán to love
Alláh and love whornever and whatever He loves, such as His angels,
Messengers, Prophets r')UI ~, truthful believers, martyrs and all
Necessity 01 Loving Alláh and His Messenger ... 83

believers in general. Furthermore, it is a faet that one tastes the delight

of Faith when he loves a person for Alláhs sake only. For this reason
it has been reported (from the Prophet ~) that from the signs of the
sweetness of Imán is to love someone only for Alláh. Also, whoever
loves for Alláh, hates for Alláh, gives for Alláh and, withholds for
Alláh, then verily he has eompleted his Faith.

~l8tií/~
~
W51~o2[jí';.;1lí~~'~~i;lZj';:ét,
. ~,/ "' ...
"But as for him who feared standing before his Lord, and
restrained himself from impure evil desires and lusts. Verily,
Paradise will be his abode." (79:40,41)

1 invoke Alláh to forgive me, you and all Muslirns, male and female,
for every error and sin. So seek His forgiveness, for certainly, He is
Oft-Forgiving, Most Mereiful.\

Khutbatul-Jumu 'ah, by Shaikh Abdullah Al-Khulaifi, p. 5

Necessity ofReferring to the Sunnahfor Judgment 84

N ecessity of Referring to the

Sunnah for Judgment

AI\ thanks are to Alláh Who sent the Messengers with His Áyat. He
makes clear the allowed and disallowed in detail. He has favored His
slaves with tremendous bounties, allowed the good and pure things for
them and disa\lowed al\ impure things by the words of His Honorable
Prophets and Messengers. 1 thank and praise Him for the great
bounties that He bestowed on us, and 1 bear witness that none has the
right to be worshipped except Alláh Alone, Owner and King of a\l
things in existence, the Holy, Owner of Peace. 1 bear witness that
Muhammad is Alláh's slave and Messenger, the most honored among
mankind who prayed, fasted, performed Tawaf (circumambulating)
around the Ancient House (the Ka'bah) and stood at Al-Mash'ar AI­
Haram (the sacred sanctuary). May Alláh 's peace and blessings be on
Muhammad, his progeny and honorable Companions as long as the
days keep dissipating the darkness ofthe nights.
Slaves of Alláh! Know, may Alláh grant us al\ His Merey, that the
religion is for Alláh Alone, and He decides whatever He wi\ls and
guides whom He wills. Alláh sent Muhammad ~ and made him the
greatest Imam and leader, and He does not accept Imán from anyone
until, and unless, they refer every matter of the religion to the
Prophet' s judgment and decision.

,,(\~¡':)í;.í""{""::"-:'''~'''''''
~ _~ ~ _J~
~ ~'1
..... :?"~
"But no, by your Lord, they can have no Faith, until they make
you (O Muhammad *) judge in a\l disputes between them, and
find in themselves no resistance against your decisions, and
accept (them) with fu\l submission." (4:65)
Alláh has declared and swored in His Glorious Book that whoever
does not seek the Prophet's judgment in a\l disputes will never attain
Faith, until they offer the disputes to his Sunnah and find no
Necessity ofReferring to the Sunnahfor Judgment 85

displeasure or hesitation in their hearts regarding his decisions and

accept them fully. Alláh stated that no believer should ever choose his
own decision for himself after Alláhs Messenger ~ has issued his
decision. Alláh, Who Alone created creation and decides regarding it,
ordained that when the Messenger ~ decides, his decision requires
implementation.

~~V~.J~~L:~~~ t
"And your Lord creates whatsoever He wills and chooses."
(28:68)
Whatever Alláh decides is the Tayyib (good and pure), but not all His
creation are good and pure, and this is the distinction between those
slaves who are happy and those who are miserable. Surely, the good
and pure person only deserves and is worthy of the good and pure
statements, actions and creeds. The good and pure believer worships
Alláh Alone without partners in worship and prefers His pleasure to his
own lusts and desires. He is kind to Alláh's creation, as much as he is
able, and treats them the way he likes them to treat him. He has
collected the best of all types of good conduct, such as forbearance,
grace, merey, patience, truthfulness, easiness and honesty. His heart is
free from such ills as outrage, deceit and enviousness. He is modest
and kind with the faithful believers, but stern and harsh with Alláhs
enemies. He chooses the best types of food that Alláh has allowed, and
these foods are good and nourish the body and soul. He only chooses
the Tayyib (good and pure) people as friends and his dwelling is
always Tayyib. He is among those whom Alláh has described in this
Áyah:
"Lo:' .~ }'r:. ~íí V ~J-(-":;:: ~;\ ... ...-:'" 1 ~/ &.i. ·;.s::ii:iín,~;;-;;jí:lo..
;t .;; ,.,.:.:.J,..
"\¡) . (""":="""~......:.,;y~
'yo- -,>/ ~ ~-'"' _/ r
"Those whose lives the angel s take while they are in a pious
state (Le., pure from all evil, and worshipping none but Alláh
Alone) saying (to them): Saldmun 'Alaikum (peace be on you)
enter into Paradise, because ofthat (the good) which you used to
do (in the world)." (16:32)
Alláh has decided that the Khabith (impure) is worthy ofthe Khabith,
Necessity ofReferring to the Sunnah for Judgment 86

while the Tayyib (pure) is worthy ofthe Tayyib. Therefore, the Tayyib
statements, actions and women are worthy of the Tayyib statements,
actions and meno In contrast, the Khabith statements, actions and
women are suitable and worthy of the Khabith statements, actions and
meno Alláh has made the dwelling of all the Khabith in Hellfire, and
made Paradise the dwelling of all the Tayyib. Alláh decided that there
are three types of dweIlings, one dwelling is exclusively for the Tayyib
and is never allowed for other than the Tayyib to dwell in it, and it is
Paradise. There is another dwelling prepared for the Khabith men and
women and none except them enters it, and it is the Fire. There is a
third dwelling in which the Tayyib and Khabith dwells, and it is this
life of the world which is the place of tests and trials. Alláh has
decided all this with His Wisdom. On the Day of Judgment Alláh will
separate the Tayyib men and women frorn all others and gather the
Khabith and its people away frorn all others. Thus, the three dwellings
will become two: Paradise, the dwelling of Tayyib, and the Fire, the
dwelling of the Khabith.
One of Alláh 's amazing decisions is that He has created for each graup
their likes: the delight and pleasure of the Tayyib is in the Tayyib
statements, actions and behavior that they indulge in. From these
Tayyib things, Alláh has created for the Tayyib people the best and
most perfect ways and means of delight and happiness. As for the
Khabith, their pain and sorrow will come from the very Khabith
statements, actions and ill conduct they indulge in. Alláh has created
frorn these types of Khabith the worst kinds of torment, misery and
pains. Therefore, Alláh has made signs and indications of happiness
and misery. For instance, the Khabith is full of evil and impurity in
heart, words and actions. In contrast, goodness tlows frorn the heart,
words and actions of the Tayyib, Sorne people have a mixture of
Tayyib and Khabith in them, and whichever is stranger than the other
will designate the person as one of its people. If Alláh decides that a
certain slave earns all that is good for him, He will purify him from the
Khabith part before death comes, so that he returns to Alláh on the Day
of Resurrection pure and cIean. In this case, they will not require
cIeansing of their impure parts in the Fire of Jahannam on the Day of
Necessity ofReferring to the Sunnahfor Judgment 87

Judgment. Instead, Alláh directs this type of slave to rid their self of
impurity by repenting, performing the good deeds, as well as tasting
various afflictions and hardships he is tested with in this life, until he
meets Alláh without a sin in his record. As for the Khabith type (who
is not a disbeliever), Alláh withholds from him the means and ways to
acquire purity so that he meets Alláh with parts of Tayyib and parts of
Khabith. Alláh has decided that none should reside in the Dwelling of
His Pleasure who has any part of Khabith in him or her. Therefore,
Alláh sends them to the Fire to eliminate the Khabith from them.
Therefore, O Al1áh's slaves, hold to the guidance of your Prophet :i
and make him your Imam and leader in all that you do, say and believe
in. Do not follow the lusts and desires of your inner selves, nor obey
the devil, for you are in the dwel1ing of test and trials. Know that
obeying the Messenger ~ is obedience to Alláh Himself, and that the
Messenger ~ only explains to us what Alláh has allowed and
disallowed. The Prophet ~ forbids for us deviation, wickedness,
following misguidance and evil.
á á
~ -;: ",~\ '1 ",~\ '\ ~~~\" '\ "'' .í-=- ""/ !(';,,~ 1/.... '" ~ >. /, j "'~(\ "'(-;,;\" í//:lo.
~~.ul ':>~.ul ~~ ~19 ~ ~ \..OJ ~~ !J'""J' ~ .. I.oJ r

"And whatsoever the Messenger (Muhammad :i) gives you,

take it; and whatsoever he forbids you, abstain (from it). And
fear Alláh; verily, Alláh is Severe in punishment." (59:7)
May Alláh direct us and you to the blessings of the Noble Qur' án and
benefit us and you with whatever is in it of the Áyat and Wise Dhikr. 1
say this and ask Alláh the Great, and the Most Honored for forgiveness
for me, you and al1 Muslims for every sin. Invoke Him for forgiveness,
for He is the Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.'

1 Al-Khutabtul-Minbariyyah, by.Shaikh Ibrahim Al-Yusuf, p. 230

The Five Pillars 01Islam 88

The Five Pillars of Islam

All thanks and praises are due to Alláh, Who sustains all ereation with
His favor. He is the only deity worthy of worship. O Alláh! We only
worship You, seek and invoke You for help for eaeh and everything,
and appreeiate and praise You for Your bounties. I hereby testify that
none has the right to be worshipped exeept Alláh Alone, without
partners and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger whom He
sent as merey for mankind and the jinn. O Alláh! Send Your merey
and blessings to Muhammad, his progeny, Companions and people of
knowledge and eorreet guidanee.
Alláh the Exalted said:
~í i,í~¡t ~.; 1,~11,~~ ~) ~( 6Jí Li;~ ~
~ítG~I~-¿ J:j
"O you who have believed! Bow down, and prostrate
yourselves, and worship your Lord and do good that you may be
sueeessful." (22:77)
In this Ayah Alláh eommands His believing slaves to worship Him by
bowing down in Ruku' and prostrating in Sujud for Him Alone. He
also eommands them to do good things so that they might aequire
guidance. Doing good entails enjoining righteousness and forbidding
evil, It also entails worshipping Alláh in Tauhid with sincerity, being
kind and eompassionate, offering sincere advice to all people and
direct them to what ensures their happiness and correctness. All this
Alláh commands us to do, prefers for us and rewards us if we
implement and adhere by it.
O Alláhs slaves! Islam is built on five pillars. Believing in them
makes a person Muslim, provided he or she abides by these pillars and
implements them sincerely and faithfully. These pillars are: testifying
that none has the right to be worshipped except Alláh and that
Muhammad ~ is His slave and Messenger, performing prayer, paying
what is due of Zakát, fasting the lunar month of Ramadhán, and
The Five Pillars ofIslam 89

performing Hajj to the Sacred House of Alláh for those who can afford
the journey.
'Lá iláha illalláh' means, 'None has the right or is worthy of being
worshipped except Alláh.' This Testimonial requires performing all
acts of worship for Alláh Alone, including invoking, supplicating and
feeling humbleness and fright from Him Alone and none else.
Furthermore, only Alláh should be feared and he should be the sole
source of hope and aid. None of these acts can or should be directed
towards anything or anyone other than Alláh. Otherwise, one's
testimony that 'none has the right to be worshipped except Alláh '
becomes useless.
Testifying that Muhammad ~ is the Messenger of Alláh requires
adhering by the Praphet's command and refraining frorn whatever he
forbids. This Testimonial also requires referring to the Sunnah of the
Prophet ~ for judgment and accepting his decisions with full
submission.
-' í U .q-:.{ ....-:•.- //-;: Ú ~"'é""""""';""- /.' ~ ~.q ~......-~}...
~~ ,.- r-'~~ -..- ~¡s-':;':"¡~Y.. )o~,J "

"\
\·-:)¡;.í..-. . {..-,-::'.~:;.~~..-
Á\: _... _,J _
9 ~1
..- .:?'~

"But no, by your Lord, they can have no Faith, until they make
you (O Muhammad ~) judge in all disputes between them, and
find in themselves no resistance against your decisions, and
accept (them) with full submission." (4:65)
There are five compulsory daily prayers, and they constitute the second
pillar of Islam after the Two Testimonials. One of the conditions of
having prayer accepted and not rejected is that it is perforrned in total
sincerity to Alláh, with faith and humbleness. The prayers do, (and
should) forbid those who perform them frorn committing sins and evil
acts, as long as they are performed properly and on time.

~~I;;~í~~~j~L~)~t
"As-Salát (the prayer) prevents frorn Al-Fahshá' and Al-Munkar
(i.e. disbelief, polytheism, and every kind of evil wicked deed)."
(29:45)
The Five Pillars ofIslam 90

The third pillar of Islam is the Zakát, especially if it was given away
with a sincere good heart. The Zakát cleanses and purifies the heart
and increases one's wealth. Paying it takes the Muslim away from the
evil characteristics of miserliness. Also, the Zakát is the right that the
poor and needy Muslims have on one's wealth and its amount is not
substantial. When Zakát is paid with a good heart, Faith, sincerity and
given to poor and needy Muslims who deserve it to comfort them, then
this act of charity will purify the heart of its giver and cleanse his
money. This is a primary wisdom behind the ordainment of Zakát. We
should also assert that Zakát entails one's good use of his position and
social status that Alláh had given him to intercede for good causes:

"Whosoever intercedes for a good cause will have the reward

thereof." (4:85)
Also, the Messenger of AIHlh ;j¿: said:
,... j. j ..... g

<r.-y I~\))
. (li...
"Intercede for a good cause and you will have a reward thereof."
Therefore, O slaves of Alláh! Fear Alláh and purify your hearts and
intentions for Him Alone in all ofyour actions.
Fasting the lunar month of Ramadhán is an obligation required by
Alláh and has such a unique status that all the actions of mankind are
theirs except the Fast, for it is for Alláh and He rewards for it. A lláh
accepts the Fast from His believing slaves, rewards them for it, and
indeed, He has the best rewards. During the Fast, one abandons his
food, drink and satisfying his lusts as an act of drawing closer to his
Lord, obeying His orders and seeking His merey, pardon and kindness.
The Fast requires one to restrain his sen ses from committing evil. For
instance, the hand fasts by restraining it from committing harm and
being used to consume unlawful things, while the leg fasts when it is
restrained from walking to evil and any act that might bring Alláhs
Anger. The tongue fasts when it is restrained from uttering evil,
foolishness, Iying and backbiting. The ear fasts by not listening to
 The Five Pillars ofIslam 91

words of calumny, ties, backbiting, musical instruments and songs.

The eye fasts by not looking at unlawful things, especially women
whom one is not allowed to look at. Also, the eyes should be restrained
from peeking at other people's secrets and private affairs. The
Messenger of Alláh ~ included all these meanings in his
comprehensive statement:

. ((~ '1J ::j~ ~ ~~ r-5~t ~L5 \~~ '~r~\ ~l))

"Verily, the Fast is Junnah (a shield or protection). Therefore,
when it is a day when one of you is fasting, let him not commit
Rafath (sexual intercourse with the wife), or dispute foolishly
and unjustly."
Alláh endowed Ramadhán, the Month of the Past, with goodness,
blessing and kindness, in addition to the revelation of the Qurán as
guidance and merey for mankind. Alláh ordained the Past during
Ramadhán and His Messenger established the Sunnah of Qiyam
(voluntary prayer) during its nights. The Messenger of Alláh ~ said:

. ((~) ~ rJ.A.J L;'J ~ ~~\J \:jL:10~~ rL,.:, ¿,;))

'" ,/ / / ---;. (),$ ,/,/ ,/

"Whoever establishes prayers during the nights of Ramadhán

faithfully, out of sincere faith and hoping to attain Alláh's

rewards (not for showing off), all his past sins will be forgiven."

Alláh's slaves! Perform acts of righteousness and good deeds so that

you earn Alláh's generous rewards. Invoke Alláh to forgive you your
sins ando to guide and direct you to success. Beg Alláh to save your
Islam, to allow it to prevaiJ aboye all other religions and to protect and
aid its people and defenders. O Alláh! Make us among those who earn
Your forgiveness and acquire safety from the Pire.!

I Ahadith Al-Milibar, by Shaikh Abdul Aziz bin Abdul1ah bin Hasan Al-Shaikh,
p.109
Islam provides ultimate Safety 92

Islam provides ultimate Safety

AII praises are due to Alláh, Who is Most Wise and Able to do all
things. He sent down the Book to His slave so that mankind may
contemplate its Áyat. 1 hereby testify that there is no deity worthy of
worship except Alláh, Alone without partners, and that Muhammad is
His slave and Messenger.
Alláh the Exalted sent His Messenger Muhammad *
with guidance
and the religion of truth to al! mankind as a Bringer of glad tidings,
Warner, Caller to Alláh by His Permission and a Lamp that spreads
light. Before Alláh sent Muhammad 1%, the son of Abdullah, as His
Honorable Prophet and as the awaited leader, reformer and savior by
Alláh's permission, mankind was engulfed in Kufr (disbelief) and
misguidance. They lived in ignorance and darkness, with confusion
and disorder being so rampant and prevalent that truth was not
established. There was no guidance being followed or implemented.
There was no righteous leader to follow nor a reformer to call and
impress the people with his call and cause. Alláh said:
.:í',.J.b 't. . .
Y..J......
:Uí 1~ ~.A1J ~::- tí· J/ 2s~ >.ít ~ > r 1/1 djí /> ~
rJ' ~ ........ ~ ~ ...'J ~;'J ~->~.J ... jlb r

~8X::ií~
"It is He Who has sent His Messenger (Muhamrnad *) with
guidance and the religion of truth (Islám), to make it superior
over all religions even though the Mushrikún (polytheists,
pagan s, idolaters, disbelievers in the Oneness of Alláh) hate
(it)." (9:33)
Muhammad *'
was the awaited savior and the longed for reforrner
who, by Alláh's Leave, guided mankind away from misguidance,
saved them from ignorance and called them to Faith, brotherhood and
worshipping the One True Lord of al] that exists. The Prophet's
Message was, still is and will always be full of truth, guidance,
reform, reconstruction and true freedom. He was sent at a time when
the hearts were thirsty for the truth, longing for a way out of darkness
Islam provides ultimate Safety 93

to light, so as to remove the thick veil of m isguidance that had

engulfed them. When Muhammad ~ was sent, there carne the awaited
reformer who brought peace and tranquillity with Alláb 's Help.
Hence, people rushed to embrace the Faith, enter the garden of Islam
and accept Alláhs religion in great numbers.

The hearts of so many people were opened and felt comfortable when
there carne to them pure guidance from Alláh and the truth that cannot
be corrupted or spoiled by evil. They adhered to the Message that
carne to them and followed the Prophet ~ whom Alláh sent to deliver
them to safety; they loved and helped him as much as they could and
were his aids in Jihdd and while calling to his Message. On their
shoulders the battles and conquests of Islam were waged against the
party of infidels, the group of misguidance and the helpers of the
devil.

They gave up their lives in the Cause of Alláh, Whom they believed in
His Oneness, followed the light that He revealed to them and the
Prophet * whom He sent.
-' -,. /~/ 1-'// -:f '\ -' .~í O { . // 1/ :/-'/ 1/ ~ -:'¡::í/,;i í"<\}.
'-»'j-'J '~Y"~J ~'t !H';::"/ 'J:~J ~J ~ ~~\ w~ l'
AÍ.~ l.
-!.. . ~.» ........~ . . . ..aj.~ ....~ .....
"'\~~ .~.~J.J...J-!J'J

"Verily, We have sent you (O Muhammad ~) as a witness, as a

bearer of glad tidings, and as a warner. In order that you (O
mankind) may believe in Alláh and His Messenger (~), and that
you assist and honor him (~), and (that you) glorify (Alláhs)
praises morning and afternoon." (48:8)

Dear Muslirns! Islam is Alláh's light that dissipated the darkness of

this life and rose over the horizons ofthis world. It is the right religion
that filled empty hearts with Faith and brought life to them with
certainty and sincerity. It is the eterna! call that carries the Message of
reform, emancipation and vitality in all places and time frames.

Islam is the eternal Message because it is Alláhs religion and way

that He ordained. Islam is Alláhs revelation and wisdom.
Islam provides ultimate Safety 94

.w... ... "'-.. .

"'.)/,
~ 'J :;.
:;:-:J~:.L
., ¡..;--'
~.&í/,"
. '" '"
..A~'Z;;~.J¡í¡;·
'--"'..... -'....
,,}.
r
....

"[Our Sibghah (religion) is] the Sibghah (religion) of Alláh

(Islam) and which Sibghah (religion) can be better than
Alláhs? And we are His worshippers." (2:138)
And:

"And who is better in judgement than Alláh for a people who

have firm Faith." (5:50)
Where are those who are certain that Islam is Alláhs Sibghah
(religion) that contains His wisdom; those who believe that the Qur'án
is Alláhs revealed Word, then adhere by and hold to His judgment
and decisions? Where are those who take guidance from the Qur'án
and implement its righteous commandments, perfect rul ings,
honorable Law and call of guidance and reform?

~r;tO~->k0\jJí\~¿L~
"Verily, this Qurán guides to that which is mostjust and right."
(17:9)

"And verily, this is My straight path, so follow it, and follow

not (other) paths, for they will separate you away from His
path." (6: 153)

And:
"'~í-:-
"'\ ' / / ~~~
."i\ J\i/~ 'L -:;:/ ¿íJ/\~;'
'-' / ~'J/ ~
-: -1'~! . . ·1 ~//}.
~ ~~ 0'"_1')"

"And who is better in speech than he who invites (men) to

Alláhs (Islárnic Monotheism), and does righteous deeds, and
says: 1 am one ofthe Muslims." (41:33)
Know that Alláh has sent down Islam to be the perfect healer for all
Islam provides ultimate Safety 95

ills ofthis life and the cure that endows mankind with immunity from
wickedness, trials in Jife and religion and sin. Islam is still carrying its
reforming mission of guidance until the present time, delivering a call
that is unsurpassed or rivaled. Islam dissipates disarray, injustice and
mischief and establishes guidance, justice, peace, stability, brotherhood,
coherence and unity.
Muslims, in the present times, are in desperate need of adhering to
Islam's call and holding to the guidance of the Qur'án. They have
fallen prey to feebleness, weaknesses, confusion, misguidance, sin and
fol1owing lusts and desires. Their only safety and immunity is through
the Islam that carne to them with Muhammad ~.
How can Muslims fall into misguidance when they have Alláhs Book
of which they recite its Áyat, and the Sunnah of their Messenger ~,
which explains Alláh's Áyat to them? How can Muslims even
complain that their situation is unbearable and their livelihood is full
of confusion and troubles, when they have the healer before their
hands containing the wisdom of the AII-Knower, Well-Acquainted
with al1 things? In it, they wil1 find al1 that they need to correct their
life and Hereafter affairs, as well as earning might, a good life and
tranquillity.
I hereby declare with sincerity to Alláh's Face, and to fulfill the
mission and duty that I have towards delivering the Prophet's
Message: that Alláh's Book and the Sunnah of His Messenger are the
plain truth that never contains or leads to misguidance. The Qurán
and Sunnah are the certainty that is never mixed with doubt, the light
that eradicates darkness and the correct guidance that repels
misguidance and prevents loss and failure for all of mankind.
Muslims will never earn what is good for them, acquire Alláh's help
and victory, or Iive a good, tranquillife until, and unless, they revert to
Islam and adhere by Alláhs Book and the Sunnah of His Messenger
~. The Prophet ~ has said the truth when he declared:

.&1 w8- : \~. '-? ~

~.
1) ~
~
J /~ r
'_~C".:~
"->
- 0\~ ~ 'r~
- <:-. ::.s~::))
.r :~
-~
J~
Islam provides ultimate Safety 96

.((~\ (.-iJ 11 ~~ ~ '11 '~J

"1 have left with you what will save you from misguidance, as
long as you adhere to them: the Book of Alláh and my Sunnah.
Have 1 conveyed (the Message)? O Alláh, be my Witness."
1 ask Alláh to make the Noble Qur'án a blessing for us. 1 say this and
ask Alláh to forgive me, you and the rest of the Muslims from every
error. Invoke Him for forgiveness, for He is Oft-Forgiving, Most
Merciful.
 Tawakkul (trusting) in Alláh 97

Tawakkul (Trusting) in AIHih

AII praises and thanks are due to Alláh, the Omnipotent, Most
Powerful, and 1 bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship
I exeept Alláh Alone without partners, Whom we worship and invoke
for help. I bear witness that Muhammad is Alláhs slave and
Messenger, the best Prophet and the Leader of all those who fear
Alláh. O Alláh! Grant Your best blessings and merey on Muhammad,
his progeny, his Companions and all those who followed them with
excellence until the Day of Judgment.

O people! Fear Alláh and adhere by His Rope, this Qur'án, and rely on
Hirn for all ofyour affairs. Alláh said:
.i.'" ~ .t> r\
~C,)~.Y"" <.?J-':"~
~-: "'i~ ~ í i:::'" ).
o-» 7'
"And in Alláh let the believers put their trust." (58: 10)

~~jb;;~~~~,
"So worship Him and put your trust in Him." (11: 123)

~~í ~;j;.ií ~j2í; ~ ~~I:. ¿;:);,

"And hold fast to Alláh [i.e., have confidence in Alláh, and
depend upon Him in all your affairs]. He is your Maula?
(Patron, Lord), what an Excellent Maula (Patron, Lord) and
what an Excellent Helper!" (22:78)
~¿j Al'" ~~ g:tt ~\ -- .r:~'" ,
••"''''_",-' '.Y "'_ '" s- ~~y ~
"And my guidance cannot come except from Alláh, in Him 1
trust and unto Him 1 repent." (11:88)
And:

"You (Alone) we worship, and You (Alone) we ask for help

(for each and everything)." (1:5)
Tawakkul (trusting) in Alláh 98

Further, Alláhs Messenger ~ said:

,. . / -;.. / cr;. / //
. «.&~ ¿¿ '#\j ¿ :;: ·.. II~13'.&1 ~L:.,\j C:..JL::.. 1~1» ; ~ JL;
"When you ask, ask Alláh, and when you seek help, seek it
from Alláh."
Therefore, Tawakkul (Trust) and Isti 'anah (Seeking Help) are two of
the greatest obligations and implications of Imán (Faith). They are
also among the best good deeds that draw one closer to the Most
Beneficent. Surely, al! matters occur and are led to success by Alláhs
help Alone and the slave has no choice or recourse, except by trusting
and relying on Him. Certainly, whatever Alláh wills occurs and
whatever He does not wil! never occurs. The slaves cannot change
their condition frorn one stage to another, except by Alláh's Will. The
slaves have no power or strength to worship Alláh except through His
help, nor can they resist evil and sin except when Alláh grants them
immunity. Al! types and parts of sustenance and provisions can be
earned and perfected by trusting in Alláh Alone, just as the Messenger
of Alláh ~ said:
y. o,.., .::;; J: Jo / " -" '" t '" '" (1;:; ,...
#'Y .:;;. ,.&\ ~ ~y :,Jl)
"')lo

J~ ::;.1J1 Jj~ W' ~j) : ~ J\j

~ "';. '" p

. (lil..k~ CJJ'J
J-' LP~
,
"If you truly trust in Alláh as you should trust in Him, He will
provide you with sustenance, just as He does to birds: they go
out in the morning with empty stomachs and come back in the
evening with fuI! stomachs."
The Messenger of Alláh ~ described those who trust in Alláh as
having two qualities: they seek means and ways of earning their
livelihood and have great trust in He Who has full control of all means
and ways of provision. Those who possess only one or none of these
qualities will acquire failure and utter loss. In contrast, those who seek
the legal and lawful ways of earning their sustenance, trust in Alláh
and appreciate His bounties whenever they earn them, all the while
observing patience during times of hardship and distress, wilI acquire
success and win what they need and covet. How can those who
Tawakkul (trusting) in Alláh 99

acknowledge that they are in need of their Lord in all conditions and
situations, not trust in Him? How can those who acknowledge that
they are helpless and feeb1c without the help of their Lord, ever stop
seeking His help or invoking Him for relief? How can those who are
certain that ownership of all affairs rests in Alláh's Hands, not ask
Him for their various needs? How can those who have knowledge of
Alláhs Richness and Most Generous Essence, refrain frorn seeking
His Kindness in all oftheir matters? How can those who are eertain of
Alláh's Merey, that He is more mereiful with His slaves than the
mother with her own child, not trust His Judgment? How can those
who know that Alláh is Most Wise in all deeisions, not feel assured
and pleased with all that He decides and destines for them?
O slave of Alláh, who seeks the ways and means of goodness, you
will only earn all that is good and righteous by trusting in Alláh and
relying on Him for every need. O you who strives hard against his
own selfto resist the jures of sin and disobedience, know that you will
repel sin only through your trust and relianee on He Who has perfeet
knowledge of the Unseen. Surely, he who relies on Alláh, He will
suffiee for him. He who asks Alláh for help and adheres to His
obedienee, He will eorrect the affairs of his life and religion for him.
As for he who likes himself and lets his heart abandon the Lord, the
Most Honored, he will only aequire failure and lose this life and the
Hereafter.
How many are they, who seem weak and unable to earn their benefit,
but are in faet strong on account of their trust and relianee on Alláh,
and so Alláh helps them acquire their needs? How many are they, who
seem strong and rely on this faet alone, but their strength deceived and
departed them when they most needed it? Surely, the help and sueeess
that Alláh grants is the only reserve and resource of supply for the
faithful believers. There is no suecess, or happiness, exeept by
worshipping Alláh, seeking His help and trusting in Him. Verily,
Alláh is the only deity worthy ofworship and how exeellent He is as a
Helper:
Tawakkul (trusting) in Alláh lOO

"Our Lord! In You (Alone) we put our trust, and to You

(AJone) we tum in repentance, and to You (Alone) is (our) final
Retum." (60:4)
And:
~~.> .... ~ , -: ,..
Á-:..LJí~í;'";· Gr\-:~~o;~\;·-';'~ ~ ';')li\~."'\.b/ ~
'r..: .
~ ..;J1'J .~~...u ~..J.¿u-::- r- 0;J;:. ~ 'T

"And so many a moving (living) creature carries not its own

provision! Alláh provides for it and for you. And He is the
AIl-Hearer, the AIl-Knower." (29:60)
May Alláh direct us all to the blessings of the Glorious Qur'án and
benefit us all in whatever is in it ofthe Ayat and Wise Dhikr. I say this
and ask Alláh the Great, the Most Honored for forgiveness for me,
you and all Muslims for every sin, so invoke Him for forgiveness, for
He is the Most Forgiving, Most Merciful. 1

1 Al-Fawakih Ash-Shahiyyah, by Shaikh Abdur-Rahman Al-Sa'di, p. 21

The Necessity olIkhlas (Sincerity) in Deeds 101

The Necessity of Ikhlas (Sincerity) in Deeds

AII praises and thanks are due to Alláh, Lord of aH that exists. 1 bear
witness that none except Him has the right to be worshipped, Alone
with sincerity in the religion. 1 bear witness that Muhammad is Alláhs
slave and Messenger and His truthful and trustworthy Messenger. May
Alláhs peace and blessings be on Muhammad, his progeny, his
Companions and all those who followed them perfectly until the Day
of Resurrection.
o Muslims! Fear Alláh the Exalted and hold to Ikhlas (sincerity) for
Alláhs Face in your actions and statements. Al-Bukhári and Muslim
narrated that 'Urnar es- j¡\ ¿oJ said, "1 heard the Messenger of Alláh ~
say:
..... "" ; . . . . . . "" J ..... t: ....­
. (( '.Sy '1('\ ~\/ • uUL Jl4- ~I
/. c;, ...'.S!'•\ J"'': ~\))
tJ / - ~ ~
"Verily, the reward of deeds depends upon the Niyyah
(intentions) and every person will get the reward according to
what he has intended."
Therefore, every action that was not performed for Alláhs Sake only,
is annulled and fruitless in this life and the Hereafter.
There are two implications for the word Niyyah according to the
scholars. One of them pertains to distinguishing acts of worship from
acts of habit. For instance, there is a difference between taking a bath
to remove impuríty and taking a bath to cool off or to clean the body.
Further, there is a differentNiyyah for Zhur prayer than Asr prayer and
fasting during Rarnadhán in contrast to fasting in other months.

The second meaning for Niyyah pertains to distinguishing between the

intention behind the act, if it is directed to Alláh Alone or to Alláh and
others. This meaning carries with it happiness or misery and reward or
punishment. Two different persons might perform the same act, paying
equal effort to it. Yet, one ofthem earns a reward whíle the other earns
no reward, or even punishment, because the intentions were different
in each case. Alláh the Exalted said:
The Necessity ofIkhlas (Sincerity) in Deeds 102

\~ 'í ;;• /~
~ /~ 1
, ú:~:J ~_,/>. ;J/ {'G e~_:J/n;,:
, . ~úí
/ ~.'.j.. ~f .~ " > ú""

,/,/ ~..:t 1-:'» '.Jo '>" //./ // "... / / // ~ ..,.,'/ /--¡. . / / ¡/ j. .,./ / .>-/
0~ ~jl.9 ~Y Y'3 ~ U ~3 ¡,~':1\ ..l'.JI 0-"3 o C)~~ L.y1..
~(?,:-:= n·/
"'\:'.)->"--" ~
"Whoever desires the quick-passing (transitory enjoyment of
this world), We readily grant him what We will for whom We
like. Then, afterwards, We have appointed for him Hell; he will
burn therein disgraced and rejected (far away from Alláhs
Merey). And whoever desires the Hereafter and strives for it,
with the necessary effort due for it (i.e. does righteous deeds of
Alláhs obedience) while he is a believer (in the Oneness of
Alláh - Islámic Monotheism) - then such are the ones whose
striving shall be appreciated, (thanked and rewarded by Alláh)."
(17:18,19)
Some scholars said that this is why people vary in grades; it is in
accordance to the intentions behind their actions, not because of
merely fasting and praying. For instance, Hijrah (migration) from the
area of Kufr (disbelief) to the area of Islam is one of the best righteous
deeds there are. But it will truly be a Hijrah by having the intention in
the heart to do so (in Alláhs Cause), notjust because one departs from
one area to another for worldly purpose 01' for no particular reason. The
Messenger of Alláh ~ said:

"So whoever emigrated to Alláh and His Messenger, then his

migration was to Alláh and His Messenger. And whoever
emigrated for worldly benefits 01' for a woman to marry, his
migration was for what he emigrated for."
In this Hadith, the Prophet ~ states that Hijrah depends on the
intention and Niyyah behind it. Therefore, whoever emigrated to the
land of Islam on account of his love for Alláh and His Messenger ss, to
 The Necessity Di Ikhlas (Sincerity) in Deeds 103

learn Islam and be able to practice it in public, since he was unable to

do so in the land of Shirk, then he truthfully emigrated to Alláh and His
Messenger ~. Alláh has promised great rewards frorn Hirn for this
righteous acto
As for he who ernigrates frorn the land of Shirk to the land of Islam
seeking wordily benefits or for the purpose of rnarrying a certain
wornan, then he did not ernigrate for Alláh and His Messenger. Rather,
he is a rnerchant or seeker of rnarriage, When the Prophet ~ was asked
about the different intentions behind fighting, such as showing off and
being courageous to defend one's tri be, and so forth, he gave this
answer:
.. "e -' /'
I '.. ., s , l::..WI' .&\ 4J5':' C-:l '1~1j ~ ')1 JIj
j

. ((.&\ : ~
, q:::;- ~~ - ~, ,~u cr" -~

"He who fights so that Alláhs \Vord is the highest, then he is

fighting in the Cause of Alláh."

Further, An-Nasai 'i narrated frorn Abu Urnarnah y. .11 ~), that aman
*
carne to the Praphet and asked him, "What about aman who joined
Jihád to earn reward, as weII as fame? What will he earn?" The
Messenger of Alláh said, "Nothing." He (*) then said:
. ((. j ' , "-' '
~j,~~j,
.~.\' GJ~.:,L5 ~ '11~~
jl'~~ 1'.&10\))
~
"Veri ly, Alláh only accepts what was perforrned in sincerity to
Hirn seeking His Face."
There is no doubt that dying as a rnartyr in Alláhs Cause, learning
beneficia1 know1edge and teaching it and spending rnoney in Alláhs
Cause are sorne of the best righteous deeds there are and the hardest to
perforrn. When one's intention behind perforrning any of these acts is
corrupt, he will earn the Fire! Muslim narrated that Abu Hurairah ~)
.11 said that he heard the Prophet say:
A.:S­ *
-r
....
LJ \ J)i 01''"J : JÁ ~ ,.&\ J;-j ~ :JIj ~ ~;.;' ).. ::; ,....
........ / ....,., ....,.... {,.... 0.J ,.... " ,,­
~ :Jw .1:~/·j~j.u~'·,,-,'-Ij'IA·-·
'T" ~
..\"I~ &,¡:;,t..ill'"
, " j d ,~<../- ;---- ~J ,- , -, ¡.Y- ~.~j

~J
, ~í5 : JIj ,~~I cr":
:' ¿w ::..tlj :JIj
«>
~I:
~,
~ ~
The Necessity oiIkhlas (Sincerity) in Deeds 104

? ~J fi ~ ~~, ¡J .~ ~ '~~i :J~ ~"J ¿j;~

.... /' }~..... "" _ ,,~ ~ __ -;;; 1) o :;;; __ .;. " __ O'~

'~ '.u~ ~~ ~\j .jlJAJI \}J '~J ~\ ~ J-()J . !LJI J; ~\

~í:)J\ ~1:)::(.'.~I~J ~\ /. ~L; : J~ ~~~ ¿\ ~ ~ : J~ .~;';
~í'r~'i¡ :J'~'
.r.J -:J~
\, : JW_, '¡-::-
- \.'1\ ,'- :1;; ~' ~:i5
_.J . : J~ ,dJ ->

o} .........,. } '"

./J\J;~r?~J.fi~~~~r~ .~~ ~lS!~ :J~

..... __ ,.. "" '..... o ..... .......... '"

. L¡.;;';'~'.u~ ~~~t.9 ~wl ~Gr ~ ~~iJ ~'.&\ e-J J;.jJ

'11; ,-,
....; ~
-.-.,', ~1'~ I -,:
. - '-P:- ~
::j_:
f
~ : J~ ~I-: ~ ::l.;. ~ : J~
~,
yo.....

::...w ¿~) ~l5

1) ,.. ..... // ..... /' ./

~ . ~ ~ ~\~; : J~ : JIj ,-!.u ~ /- ~:';r

o~ --.....}

.II/JI J; ~í ~ ~J ~ ~ ~~~r
"The first person who a sentence passed against him will be
found guilty on the Day of Resurrection, is aman who died as a
Shahid (martyr). He will be summoned, and Alláh will remind
him of His bounties on him, and he will attest to them. Alláh
will ask him, 'What have you done in return?' The man will say,
'1 fought for Your Sake, until 1 died as a Shahid.' Alláh wilI say,
'You have said a lie! You only fought so that it wil1 be said, 'He
is brave,' and it was said (meaning, you have received your
payrnent)!' Then, he will be sentenced to be dragged on his face
until he is thrown in the Fire. Also, aman who learned
knowledge and taught it, and who also read the Qurán, will be
summoned, and Alláh wil1 remind him of His bounties on him,
and he will attest to them. Alláh will ask him, 'What have you
done as regards them?' He will say, '1 have learned knowledge
and taught it, and J also read the Qur'án for Your sake.' Alláh
will reply, 'You have said a lie! You only learned (the
knowledge) so that it will be said, 'Aalim (a scholar)', and you
have read the Qur'án so that it will be said, 'Qarii (a reader of
the Qurán).' And it was said!' He wilI be sentenced to be
dragged on his face until he is thrown in the Fire. And aman
whom Alláh has given abundance (in wealth and provisions) and
The Necessity oiIkhlas (Sincerity) in Deeds 105

different types of possessions will be summoned and Alláh will

remind hirn of His bounties on him and he will attest to them.
Alláh will ask hirn, 'What have you done as regards them?' He
will reply, '1 left no path that You like spending on, but 1 spent
on it for Your sake.' Alláh will reply, 'You have said a líe! You
only spent so it will be said, 'He is generous.' and it was said.'
Then he will dragged on his face until he is thrown in the Fire."
When Mu'awiyah bin Abu Sufyan, 4.:.>­ 11 ?), heard this Hadith, he
cried and said, "Alláh and His Messenger ~ have said the truth."
;) » -:•.' ~ 1" ~ •.'" \" ~
~.
:-:í<;1 : .¿Í\ s: . "C::Uí
~....A..J 't:;: r-- ¡ry~ }y"t'"'""'-:.3
(~~
. ..J.
~ ,,,~ íí i./
~.'-I-
-: f 0'"
i.l
.: "f'),.
..(;Óí~\{·
"'C.-->
§í' --1 /~Jjíá:j1
~)~ Yr-~.~ ~~
O

"Whosoever desires the life of the world and its glitter, to thern
We shall pay in full (the wages of) their deeds therein, and they
will have no dirninution therein. They are those for whom there
is nothing in the Hereafter but Fire." (11: 15,16)
Irnam Ibu Rajab said:
"Know that performing deeds for other than Alláh is of different
types. Sometí mes, this action might be to show off in its
entirety, and thus, one seeks to be seen by the creation for a
worldly gain. For example, this is the state that the hypocrites
pray in."
Just as Alláh described thern:

~~8LS-,{í;Jc.ti;~ ~jÍ ~\í j~¡;~ \~~:; ~

"And when they stand up for As-Saló! (the prayer), they stand
with laziness and to be seen of men." (4: 142)
Further, Alláh described the acts of the disbelievers as being all for
showing off, when He said:

~cJ;:LJí:b:!~~~~~~¡;';':'~~~~.ts'1~ ~
"And be not like those who come out of their hornes boastfully
and to be seen ofmen." (8:47)
The Necessity ofIkhlas (Sincerity) in Deeds 106

The boasting and showing off described here rarely appears in the
prayer and fasting performed by a believer. Yet, showing off might
appear in their acts of charity and Hajj, because these latter acts are
carried out in public and bring benefit to people, making it hard to
observe perfect sincerity while performing them. However, if showing
off appears in these acts, it will annu 1them and earn one A lláh ' s anger
and torment, as is known to Muslims. Sometimes, the act might be for
Alláh and is mixed with showing off. In this case, there are authentic
texts asserting that if the intention of showing off was present at the
time one intended to perform a righteous act, the act itself will be
annulled and fruitless. But when the act was started to gain Alláhs
reward alone, but changed later on to include an intention to partially
show off, then it will not annul the act, provided one repels such
thoughts.
Therefore, O slaves of AII<lh! Worship Alláh Alone in sincerity and
stay away from Riyá' (showing off) and evil intentions. Alláh does not
look at your shapes and wealth, but rather at your hearts and actions.
Know that the slave will be helped towards Ikhlas (sincerity) when he
performs a righteous deed in confidence between him and his Lord.
This way, the act will be easily steered away from Riyá' (showing off).
The Prophet ~ said in an authentic Hadith, that among the seven
whom Alláh shades under His Shade, on a Day when there wi II be on Iy
His Shade:
. (r~ ~..~ ~ ~J~ í..J :: 'J :/ ~~lj;j~ /.~~ "I~/ )}
-/.~ / cr": _ ~(.; u:.J
" ... A man who gives charitable gifts so secretly that his left
hand does not know what his right hand has given (i.e., nobody
knows how much he has given in charity)."
In addition, Alláh said:
r:: '" ~ ,...-// ~.J ""'" -, .. ",,/ ", "Jo ,.,,,
:~í»'-:' "'.-'-:""\ ~ ':\\\"'. -." 1-. . , - .¡"'''',l,I-
~,/
r---'~ ~ ..~ UIlyY,J ~~ u~,J f..S:. ~ ~-\...,AJ 1),",,---:, u!>
... " " ' " ~ ~ -',,,;.
-: .,", --ti! \ ~.!
t.
~~~\:- ---:.~- ¡~
, <Ó»
_~.-;::_ ...".2'".J'/
- ...r'Y'-:,J
"If you disclose your Sadaqát (almsgiving), it is well: but if you
conceal them and give them to the poor, that is better for you.
The Necessity ofIkhlas (Sincerity) in Deeds 107

(Alláh) will expiate you some ofyour sins." (2:271)

When a believer gives away charity for a good cause, he should not
agree that his name be announced to the public, such as in newspapers,
unless the purpose is to encourage others to pay for this and other
charitable causes, or if his name is announced without his knowledge.
Further, when some people build amosque, they have a statement
written on its door declaring that so-and-so 'generous person' built this
mosque from his money. This is not proper conduct and might spoil
one's good deed, especially ifhe or she sought to preserve the memory
ofhis or her generosity!

So, fear Alláh, O Alláh's slaves, and perform all good deeds for His
Sake alone:
j::--i~ u - / r > u,;;" ~~ / W ·~.J:í /.io.ty{:-
-//-¡//

_. ,~-,;~ ~.J~ $J~~ ~¡~~ W\J;&-~H_r: GI wlJi 7J.

'Jl//O-¡-N .jo

"Say (O Muhammad ~): "J am only aman like you. It has been
revealed to me that your Iláh (God) is One Iláh (Alláh), So
whoever hopes for the Meeting with his Lord, let him work
righteousness and associate none as a partner in the worship of
his Lord." (18:110)

May Alláh direct us and you to the blessings of the Glorious Qurán
and benefit us and you with whatever is in it of the Ayal and Wise
Dhikr, 1 say this and ask Alláh the Great, Most Honored for
forgiveness for me, you and all Muslims for every sin. Invoke Him for
forgiveness, for He is the Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.""

1 Al-Khutabul-Minbariyyah, by Shaikh Salih Al-Fozan, vol. 2, p. 273

Seeking the Lawful Means ofApproach to Alláh 108

Seeking the Lawful Means of Approach to AIHih

AlI praises and thanks are due to Alláh, the Greatest, Most
Compassionate, Most Merciful, Owner and Bestower ofthe great favor
and tremendous bounties. 1 bear witness that none has the right to be
worshipped except Alláh, Alone without partners, and unto Him
belongs the Most Noble Sovereignty. I bear witness that Muhammad *
is His slave and Messenger whom Alláh described:

~1-~; $j;1.ililj ,
"And verily, you (O Muhammad *) are on an exalted (standard
of) character." (68:4)
O Alláh! Bestow Your merey, forgiveness and blessings on

Muhammad, his progeny, his Companions and all those who followed

their guidance.

O people, fear Alláh the Exalted:

~~ ~ i.,~~ ~ _ .-Jí ~~ 1;':: rlJ ~ ~í ~\: 6Jí c:;~ ,

~G~\;~
"O you who believe! Do your duty to Alláh and fear Him. And
seek the Wasilah (means of approach) to Him, and strive hard in
His Cause (as much as you can), so that you may be successful."
(5:35)
'Fear Alláh' in this Áyah pertains to avoiding Kufr (disbelief), sin and
disobedience. As for Jihád in Alláhs Cause, it pertains to striving hard
against the people of misguidance, disbelief and atheism. 'Seek the
Wasilah to Him', pertains to drawing close to Alláh by adhering to the
pillars of Faith, the laws of Islam and acts of Ihsan (excellence in the
religion).
He who worships Alláh and invokes Him by His Names and
Attributes, has sought the best means of approach to Him. He who
invokes Alláh on account of His favors, bounties, generosity and
kindness, will have sought the path of the chosen righteous believers.
Seeking the Lawful Means ofApproach lo Alláh 109

He who seeks the means of approach to Alláh by avoiding what He has

disallowed and working for His pleasure, will no doubt earn all that is
good and righteous. He, who seeks the means of approach to Alláh by
mentioning his need and meekness to Him, will have used the best way
of drawing closer to Him.
As for he who seeks the means ofapproach to Alláh by mentioning the
grade and status that sorne of His creation have with Him, he is an
innovator in the religion and an unjust persono He who invokes the
creation for help and relief, claiming that he is seeking a means of
approach to Alláh through them, then he is a Mushrik (polytheist) and
a disbeliever.
Therefore, invoke your Lord by praying often, reciting His Speech
with humbleness and humility and being kind to His creation, for He
likes the good-doers. Seek the means of approach to Alláh by being
dutiful to parents and keeping reJations with kith and kin, for Alláh
keeps relations wíth those who do so and severs relations with those
who shun their relatives. Seek the Wasilah to Alláh by fearing Hil11 and
hoping and trusting in Him, for Alláh loves those who trust in Him.
Remember Alláh aJways by your words and seek His forgiveness, for
truly, those who remember Alláh in Dhikr will acquire ultimate
happiness. Seek the means of approach to Alláh by loving your
Prophet and reciting the Salát (blessings upon him) for his benefit.
Surely, he who often recites the Salát on the Prophet, then Alláh will
suffice for him concerning all his needs. When one says Salát once on
the Prophet ~, Alláh wi11 give him ten times that Salát, and he wi 11
earn the Prophet's love and Shafá' (right to intercede with Alláh on his
behalf on the Day of Judgement) by Alláhs Leave. Seek Alláhs
pleasure by being kind to the orphans, the weak and even with animals.
Surely, Alláh gives merey to those among His slaves who are rnerciful,
Seek Alláh by riddíng your hearts from all types of sin, envy and rage
on Muslims, and by offering sincere advice and being cornpassionate
with all creation. Seek the Wasilah to Alláh by abandoning whatever
the evil inner self commands one to do and satisfy of sin, lusts and
desires; protect your sight from illegal things, preserve your tongue
from uttering evíl and stay away from all types of beliefs, actions and
Seeking the Lawful Meaus ofApproach ro Alldh 110

statements that Alláh has disallowed. Seek the Wasilah to Alláh by

having perfect sincerity and obeying the Messengers. Alláh willing, if
you do this, you will earn all that you seek, that is good and beneficia!.
May Alláh direct us to the blessings ofthe Glorious Qurán and benefit
us with whatever is in it ofthe Ayat and Wise Dhikr. [ say this and ask
Alláh the Great, the Most Honored for forgiveness for me, you and all
Muslims for every sin. lnvoke Him for forgiveness, for He is the Most
Forgiving, Most Merciful.'

1 Al-Fawakih Ash-Shahiyyah, by Shaikh Abdul Rahman Al-Sadi, p. 36

Warning Against Nifaq (Hypocrisy) 111

Warning Against Nifaq (Hypocrisy)

AII thanks and praises are due to Alláh Who warned against Nifaq and
ordained the best types of conduct. 1 beal' witness that none has the
right to be worshipped except Alláh; a Testimonial that saves whoever
says it and adhered by its implications from the evil of the Day of
Gathering (Day of Judgment). 1 testify that Muhammad ~ is the slave
and Messenger of Alláh whom He sent to perfect the best types of
conduct and behavior. May Alláhs peace and blessings be on
Muhammad, his progeny and Companions.
O Muslirns! Fear Alláh and obey Him. The Prophet ~ said:
,.... ,.... JI' ,.... ,.... J __ -; ..... J J

~ ~15 ~) ¡ ~l>- ~8 ¡j15 ~ 05 ~ ~J\)) : ~ ~I J~

,. - ,,""'''''' -s:
¡...::,í5
•
~l;. I~\ ~
: ~~.. '-...:'~ ¡jW\
...
~ ...
u.....
a.:a;. ,.,W.., ~15 vv-,..­
~~ a.:a;.
.((JJi J.;.~ \~~ ¡;j r-.:.~ \~~ ~ J;) \~1J ·
"Whoever has the following four (characteristics) wil1 be apure
hypocrite and whoever has one of them will have one
characteristic ofhypocrisy unless, and until, he gives it up. They
are, whenever he, speaks, he tells a lie; whenever he gives a
promise, he breaks it; whenever he quarrels, he behaves in a
very imprudent and mean manner, and whenever he makes a
covenant, he proves treacherous." (Al-Bukhdri and Muslim)

An-Nifaq (hypocrisy) is a very dangerous il1ness and sickness, which

attacks the heart and warrants Alláh's anger and torment. Every
Muslim is, therefore, required to weigh himself using this Hadith as
the scale with which he finds out if he is safe from this disease. Nifaq
is defined as to announcing goodness and hiding evil and has two
types. First, there is a Nifaq Akbar (biggest hypocrisy), which is
hypocrisy in the creed, when a person pretends to believe in Alláh, Bis
angels, Books, Messengers and the Hereafter. However, this person
really hides disbelief in al1 01' some of these aspects of Faith. This is
the Nifaq that the Qur 'án admonished, considered a type of Kufr and
Warning Against Nifaq (Hypocrisy) 112

warned its people that they will be in the lowest bottoms of the Fire.
Alláh described this type of hypocrite with the worst descriptions and
characteristics of Kufr (disbelief) and mocking the religion and its
people. This type of hypocrite feels inclined towards the enemies of
the Islam and seeks to kindle enmity between Muslims. Among their
evil characteristics is that they are misers and fools. Their outer I
appearance is appealing: they wear good clothes and use good words,
but their inner self is wicked, full of arrogance, envy, Riyá' (showing
off) and various ills ofthe heart:
44

• ...\:....-4 y.--r-r
... ..
~ ....~/~ »{~ • .I-~'6 'l'~t ->;-::
r:='~ ~
O."..
\'\
:Jo'~
G.
-e> . \...
u~J
..
·.Jo....
r+"
L:::;..1 ~
.
/- •
.> ··r (\..... ~
/.,;

. s- r+:!J :V.. 'T

"e"'~'''' ~';--:í ~G~'<'1'~

"'\Ü~Y..~ 4.ll
~.Mí . . . ~,1~·/· ... ~V" . . »>«:

• r")J-IsJ...I.al / ' ,.- ~..F w~

"And when you look at them, their bodies please you; and when

they speak, you listen to their words. They are as blocks ofwood

propped up. They think that every cry is against them. They are

the enemies, so beware of them. May AII<1h curse them! How

are they denying (or deviating from) the Right Path?" (63:4)

AII<1h has exposed the secrets of the hypocrites and defamed them in
Surat At-Tauba (chapter 9) and other parts of the Qur'án, so that
Muslims are aware of their reality and thus avoid them, as well as
strive against them as they do against Mushrik (polytheists) and Kuffar
(disbelievers):
. . : , ";~ ...... '''', . . ~// ~;.,1~
v-l;J ~ ~JI.AJ /_
...@í"'.) ~QQ'~;W
_//
/~í ~ \.S;"'
'.).J
{~'í (~t{' ~
.>
'"r..~ 'T

4~í
"O Prophet (Muhammad t;)! Strive hard against the disbelievers

and the hypocrites, and be harsh against them, their abode is

Hell, - and worst indeed is that destination." (9:73)

O Alláhs slaves' This is the first type of Nifaq and these are the
characteristics of its people.
The second type of Nifaq is An-Nifaq Al- 'Amali (practical hypocrisy).
that involves showing goodness and hiding treachery and betrayal.
This is the type described in the Hadith we mentioned. Even though
 Warning Against Nifaq (Hypocrisy) 113

this type of hypocrisy does not annu\ the re\igion, it is sti\l a path that
directs to the greater hypocrisy, Kufr and all types of evil. The essence
of this type is described in the Prophet's Hadith. For instance, the
Prophet ~ said that when people ofthis type speak, they lie and invent
false statements. They sometime relate whatever falsehood they invent
i to Alliih and His Messenger ~.

I ~':';&Jí;J~d;í~jS;1z;~ ~
"And who does more wrong than the one who invents a lie
against Alláh." (61:7)
AIso the Prophet ~ said:
. u)JI
/
~ ~:1: ~-;, '~-:lj 1:' ~~
/ ­ ..;.15 .;») :~ J~
j;:.
"Whoever lies on me intentionallv, let him take his seat in the
Fire."
Inventing a lie against Alláh and His Messenger js pertains to c1aiming
that a certain matter is allowed or disallowed, without evidence from
Alláh and His Messenger ~ that supports this c1aim. This type inc1udes
inventing stories and relating them to Alláh, Those who do this will
degrade their level from the grade of truthful ones to the low ranks of
liars. Persisting in Iying will lead to sin, and sin \eads to the Fire.
Therefore, do not belittle the danger of Iying, O Muslirns, for minute
Iying leads to taking the habit of Iying often. Those who líe often will
be known to people by this characteristic! Hold to the truth, for those
who do so wi II save themselves, just as Alláh said:
-: • - ,~Ií""
"\.c ~ l
e i1>'~Y~.J ~íllJA-'~~íl~~--\: '-'~--
-: ~.:Jí (~b:; }..
'r.. - 'T

"O you who believe! Be afraid of Alláh, and be with those who
are true (in words and deeds)." (9: \ \ 9)
And:

"This is a Day (i.e., Day of Resurrection) on which the truthful

will profit from their truth." (5:119)
Warning Against Nifaq (Hypocrisy) 114

The second characteristic of practical hypocrisy described in the

Hadith is that when this person is entrusted, they often breach the trust.
If he is entrusted with money, secrets or any other rights of other
people, he wi 11 not protect these rights or secrets. They either ignore
taking care of these rights, or devour them and den y they ever had
possession of them. They also expose the secrets they were entrusted
with, and if they were entrusted with a job, they would take bribes and
dimer and favors in return for doing the job they were entrusted to do
and fulfill! .

The third type of practical hypocrisy entails betraying the covenants

they conduct between them and Alláh, and between them and other
people. Therefore, they do not preserve the terms of treaties and
covenants, in contradiction to what Alláh has ordained when He said:

~-1P0f ~4::Jí0l~~¡;f1; ~
"And fulfill (every) covenant. Verily, the covenant will be
questioned about." (17:34)
And:
"'.:> <: /~
\~\ ~\ ./ o>
\ . -¡'./"" ~
"'t>-'~ "'"" ~~..Y )

"And fulfil the Covenant of Alláh when you have covenanted."

(16:91)
Betraying covenants is disallowed even if they were conducted with
disbelievers. Alláh has ordained that covenants be kept even with the
Kuffar, as long as the Kuffar do not break the terms of their treaties
with Muslims. So what about one's treaties and covenants with
Muslims, such as their pledge of allegiance to Muslim leaders? Such is
the case with all transactions and contracts between Muslims. The
Prophet tJi5 said:
,J...-'
•
"",JJ J

((~')\j o.:;js. ~~ J~ ~~I

o

ry- ':.I~ !:lS- ~)) : ~ ~I Jli

.... "';. ...://

"A flag will be raised for every betraying person on the Day of
Resurrection, and it will be deciared, 'This is the betrayal of so­
and-so.'"
Warning Against Nifaq (Hypocrisy) 115

Among the characteristics of hypocrites is that when a dispute arises

between them and other Muslims, they go to extremes and do not
hesitate to illegally acquire other people's rights and property. They
beco me the most quarrelsorne of people and revert to wicked ways and
means to consume other people's rights, including forging documents,
vowing while Iying and using false testimony (including buying
witnesses). If this person is influential, he will use his inf1uence to
defend falsehood, so that people will think it is true, and portray truth
as being false. This, indeed, is one of the worst types of evil actions
and the meanest ofthe characteristics of hypocrites.

Alláh ' s slaves! Those who acquire all these evil characteristics: Iying
in the speech, breaching trusts, betraying covenants and treaties and
being imprudent and quarrelsome when disputes arise, wil1 not have
much reserve of Imán left with them. In this case, one wil1 become a
pure hypocrite, who has succumbed to dangerous il1nesses that, if
gather in a body, wil1 bring it utter destruction and demise. Whoever
has one or more of these characteristics will have mixed qualities of
Faith with sorne characteristics of hypocrisy. If these evil manners
rernain with the believer, they m ight destroy whatever is left of his or
her Imán. This is because the ills of hypocrisy are just like the
dangerous diseases that attack the body and should be treated and
repel1ed at once. Otherwise, the disease will lead the body to its
demise, But if one repents to Alláh and abandons the evil characteristic
of hypocrisy he has acquired, replacing it with the qualities of Faith of
the opposite kind, he or she will be cured from this il1ness, and his
Faith will almost reach the level of perfection. This is, and should be
the quality ofthe Muslims.

This Hadith encourages Muslims to repent from Nifaq (hypocrisy) and

from the characteristics of Nifaq, all the while adhering by and
acquiring the qualities oftruthful believers. The outward appearance of
the faithful believer is required to conform with his or her inwardness.
Muslims are required to be sincere and truthful in statement and action,
in all conditions and under al1 circumstances. This way, they wil1
become a good example for the believer who values his Faith, protects
Warning Against Nifaq (Hypocrisy) 116

his religion by saying the truth, preserves the trust, fulfills his
covenants, keeps his promise and is fair even when he disputes with
others.
° Alláhs slaves! An-Nifaq Al-Akbar, (major hypocrisy) flourishes
when Muslims are strong because hypocrites fear declaring their true
beliefs in this case. Yet, they wish to live with Muslims and seek
protection for their life and property. They thus declare that they are
Muslims outwardly, even though their hearts conceal Kufr. They also
await any chance to hurt Muslims and conspire against them. This type
of hypocrisy cannot and does not occur by Muslims.
As for An-Nifaq Al-Asghar (minor hypocrisy), it might occur by
Muslims who have weak faith. The Companions feared this type of
hypocrisy for themselves, to the extent that 'Umar e- 1\~) used to ask
Hudaifah bin AI-Yaman es- 11 ~) whether he was among the
hypocrites the Prophet ~ mentioned to Hudaifah «zs- 11 ~). Al-Bukhári
narrated in the Sahih that Ibn Abi Mulaika said:
"1 lived during the time of thirty Companions of the Prophet ~,
and they all feared hypocrisy for themselves."
Al-Bukhári also narrated that AI-Hasan said about Nifaq:
"None except a faithful believer fears it for himself, and none
except a hypocrite feels safe from it."
0, Alláh's slaves! This is how our Sala! (righteous predecessors)
feared minor hypocrisy for themselves because it directs to major
hypocrisy. And just as Kufr starts by amassing and persisting in sin,
those who persist in the characteristics of hypocrisy might lose their
Faith altogether, thus becoming pure hypocrites. Therefore, fear Alláh
in all conditions and under all circumstances, and be truthful always:
"'1~"~.t',f;:'~V -:~\~\:k..
"\~.J ~ ¡J tl 4Il .:J~ v
"Surely, Alláh is Ever an AH-Watcher over you." (4: 1)
Alláh the Exalted said:
'-ií~ .&~ -:~I ..- :~ -::ip("íí~ ..... ~~ií~7. ~~ií í~ • . t": ~~ ¡t! j -:ií ~·.f~:k..
-!-.Y:'J _ ;. 0'" 0" ~ ~.J ,;~'.J ';'...r-' ~ ("""'""~.J ~-" ~ -P,! u-':! V j"
Warning Against Nifaq (Hypocrisy) 117

¿;/':íí" ~~í -S'-)"

_ .J.
~~~~Jdí
;-
'::\;" ~í- ....i(jí" ¡b ".(l:W'J-!:. §í
J:.J~;- 'J;- " 'J"

~§Jí J\~~ ~pí ~6l; ~~)í -}~ ~L:.l~ ~ _~-::\í ü.íJ ~t

,;t.tí) ~~í ~ ~ÍJ ;Cr;ií -! Zt&t ¡/~;. \~b ~~J 6~;J)J
~0;¡;~~ií ~ áp;t; ~¡;, &Jí
"It is not Al-Birr (piety, righteousness, and each and every act of
obedience to Alláh) that you turn your faces towards east and
(or) west (in prayers); butAI-Birr is (the quality of) the one who
believes in Alláh, the Last Day, the Angels, the Book, the
Prophets and gives his wealth, in spite of love for it, to the
kinsfolk, to the orphans, and to Al-Masákin (the poor), and to the
wayfarer, and to those who ask, and to set slaves free, performs
As-Salát (Iqámat-as-Salát), and gives the Zakát, and who fulfil
their covenant when they make it, and who are patient in
extreme poverty and ailment (disease) and at the time of fighting
(during the battles). Such are the people ofthe truth and they are
Al-Muttaqún" (2: 177)
May Alláh direct us and you to the blessings of the Glorious Qur 'án
and benefit us and you with whatever is in it of the Áyat and Wise
Dhikr. 1 say this and ask Alláh the Great, and the Most Honored for
forgiveness for me, you and all Muslims for every sin. Invoke Him for
forgiveness, for He is the Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.!

! Al-Khutab Al-Minbariyyah, by Shaikh Salih Al-Fozan, vol 1, p. 292

What Negates Islam ] 18

What Negates Islam

AlI thanks and praises are due to Alláh, Who accepted Islam for us as
our religion, made us among the best Nation ever to be sent to
mankind, ordered us to adhere to this religion and be firm on it and
warned us against abandoning it.
.Jo""" "" J.
. ·~\,""'~t:
~~I~' ~ 'J t ~-=~..J~L8;<.rr-",,:,,::~.¿....;J...r;0""..JT
1/ ..... ,1"f\'~}-"\;::' ....."' ...... "' ..... -: . . . ''('-.• ' -:; ................ :k.

,,(.-/ "',I,/. Li)'''' .. \~,'\ "',.. . ·~j:ií/i . . . '::.-' .e..\.. . I...... ;~lf
',\"':':";j~ _..... ~~\.;..I ~I ~'')')}~:J :J~"'"
j

"And whosoever of you turns back from his rel igion and dies as
a disbeliever, then his deeds will be lost in this life and in the
Hereafter, and they will be the dwellers of the Fire. They will
abide therein forever." (2:217)
1 bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except Alláh
Alone, without partners, and that Muhammad is Alláh's slave and
Messenger. May Alláhs peace and blessings be on Muhammad and
his progeny, Companions and aI1 those who folIowed them until the
Day of Judgment.
O people! Fear Alláh and know that Alláhs religion is one and its path
is clear and straight. Know that misguidance has many paths and ways,
just as Alláh said:
:~ .......~. ;;.-;~.-; j-'~lÍ \ » ~:: ~/
.......... <» d'['"',,:;: ~.
~t \~ .~
(~~\.-'~
'..Y'-:;"-'
r'"
j.Y';:'
-(
_.....
';:'
i..YP'3 U'j¡

,,(~ ~f-:'~~ Al -(", -:~"""~¡,~

"N.r-:-' L ..... ;.~..Jr'~~

"And verily, this is My straight path, so follow it, and follow not
(other) paths, for they will separate you away from His path.
This He has ordained for you that you may beco me Al-Muttaqún
(the pious)." (6:153)
On every path that leads to misguidance there is a devil calling to it.
Therefore, those who want to go on the path of truth will experience
many lures and hindrances that try to prevent them from going on that
path, to the path of misguidance. These hindrances sornetirnes use
encouragernent and at other times threats. Hence, it is necessary for
What Negates Islam 119

one to acquire knowledge of the one straight path and of the many
paths of deviation. One also needs to observe patience and firmness on
the true straight path.
O Muslims! Reverting from Islam to Kufr takes many forms, such as
embracing another religion instead of Islam. Or, one might commit an
act that nullifies Islam, even though in this case he or she would still be
called Muslim. A person might perform the apparent acts ofworship as
Muslims do, even though he or she is not truly from them. This is a
serious matter that requires wisdom and sufficient knowledge with
which one needs to differentiate between truth and falsehood, guidance
and misguidance. This subject escapes the knowledge of many
Muslims and this is why they fall into serious misgivings and
confusion regarding what negates Islam. They think that all those who
perform the Islamic acts of worship are Muslims, even if they commit
something that negates Islam. This misguided opinion is the result of
ignorance of the true essence of our religion and what negates it. Yet
sadly this has become prevalent in present times. There are many
Muslims nowadays who do not distinguish between truth and
falsehood, guidance and misguidance. They refer to those who might
commit a thousand negations of Islam as 'Muslims', just because they
perform the apparent acts of worship. They do not know that if one
claims that he is a Muslim and performs Islamic acts, yet commits
errors that nullify Islam, then he is just like he who performs Wudü
(Ablution) and passes gas right afterwards. Would Wudú have any
trace left of it when this happens?
Being a follower of Islam is not a claim without a substance nor is it a
collection of contradictions. Islam is the religion of truth and sincerity.
Islam requires full submission to Alláh's Islamic Monotheism and
ordains obeying Him and eradicating Shirk. Islam is one whole,
consisting of many inseparable parts. Muslims must perform Islam's
acts of worship, duties and responsibilities and avoid what negates it.
Islam is religion, state, acts ofworship, law, deeds, Da'wah (calling to
Alláh) and Jihád. It controls and legislates all aspects of life, thoughts
and actions for its followers.
What Negates Islam 120

One does not become a Muslim just because he is called 'Muslim', if

he cornrnits acts that negate his Islam. It is not enough to praise the
religion of Islam and declare allegiance to it, without adhering by its
cornrnandrnents and implementing its law. There are rnany people who
are called Muslims in present times, but few of them befit this
description. Many arnong them praise Islam, but if you analyze the
substance of their acts and implementation of Islam, you will find great
shortcomings. There. is a great difference between true Islam and the
'Islam' ofmany ofthose who declare preference to it. Therefore, it is a
great injustice and plain misguidance that we describe those who
commit various nullifications of Islam as Muslirns, just because they
pray, fast or perform other obligations of Islam. We asserted that this
stance is indicative of ignorance and following lusts and desires.
There are rnany actions that negate and nullify Islam, and many
reasons why sorne people cornrnit reversion frorn it. In this Khutbah,
AlIáh willing, we will mention sorne of the negations of Islam that
occur often in Muslim societies in present times, so that Muslirns are
aware of their danger.

Shirk (Ascribing Partners to Alláh) in Worship

There are rnany types and forms of Shirk. One example is what occurs
in the present time near gravesites, of invoking the dead and seeking
the means of approach to them. Vows are being made to the dead and
sacrifices are slaughtered in their name. Sorne people sacrifice for, and
in the name of the jinn for the purpose of being healed. This evil
practice has becorne widespread in these times, where people go to
sorcerers and witches who command them to sacrifice for the ji nn and
they thought easily do so. They do this, even though sacrificing for
other than Alláh is a type of major Shirk.
Mocking and jesting about any part of the religion of the Prophet j!5,
such as mocking growing the beard, using Siwak (a tree branch to
clean the teeth), enjoining righteousness, forbidding evil, Jihád, and so
forth, constitutes reversion from Islam. Alláh said:
~ (7 ~ ~.F:; 1 O ~J~~ ~ ,A;'~.J ,~\;.J ~\) ji ~
What Negates Islam 121

"'"
~~~l
"Say: "Was it at Alláh O~), and His Ayát (proofs, evidences,
verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) and His Messenger (~)
that you were mocking?" Make no excuse; you disbelieved after
you had believed." (9:65-66)
Referring to other than what Alláh has revealed for judgment
constitutes reversion from Islam, if one believes that his own judgment
or rule is better than the judgment of Alláh and His Messenger ~ and
better for the people. This type also pertains to one believing that he
has the choice not to refer to what Alláh has revealed and refers instead
to rnan-rnade laws. This type of person is indeeda disbeliever who has
reverted from the religion, just as Alláh said:

40~í~á;ií;~~íJ)~~;1~J ~
"And whosoever does not judge by what Alláh has revealed,
such are the Káfirún (disbelievers)." (5:44).

We should also assert that whether one refers to rnan-made laws

partially or totally, he would still be a Kafir, provided he believes that
other than Alláhs Law is better for Muslims or that he is allowed not
to refer to it for judgment. This type is a Kafir even if they pray and
fast and claim to be Muslim. Such is the case with those who willingly
seek judgment from other than what Alláh has revealed, as indicated
by the following Áyat:
~:):l.."
-/- ~.
... ' ~ J·i"\;/I¿:ÜI
I-f ..J - .. j·lí::..
J.j
I ~ . . \~ r-+-'
~.,..... '''~' u~J..~...
-: "g'" ~ J'íJ/Lr'
. . :;, ro~p."
... - u., S\h·~.Ií
i~l~ • 1..c;--:»>J L~... ~ i':)fU'-:!
-sr- u·í 1"'
J~
' ~~ J...
. . .::..;.~lí . ~'-S
J/\~ ¡--.~ \ • u.,

41'\ ;)1;f~
"Have you not seen those (hypocrites) who claim that they
believe in that which has been sent down to you, and that which
was sent down before you, and they wish to go for judgement
(in their disputes) to the Tághút (false judges) while they have
been ordered to reject them. But Shaitdn (Satan) wishes to lead
them far astray."
What Negates Islam 122

Á\:'C\í;.1/~"-:-:·-:'-::~~"-
"'- -,.- .J~
~
__ .:r~~.~

"But no, by your Lord, they can have no Faith, until they make
you (O Muhammad #¿}judge in all disputes between them, and
find in themselves no resistance against your decisions, and
accept (them) with full submissíon." (4:60-65)
This practice carries grave danger for Muslims in these times, when
many rulers have abandoned Alláhs Book and referred instead to
man-made laws that they imported from the West and judged between
their people by them. Muslims must know Alláhs judgment in these
people and reject these evil practices.
Refraining from praying, while rejecting the necessity of praying in
Islam, is al so among the acts that negate Islam, according to the
consensus of Muslims. As for whoever refrains from praying due to
laziness, even though he admits that Alláh has commanded Muslims to
pray, he is also a Kafir if he insísts on refraining from praying. Alláh
said:

"But if they repent [by rejectíng Shirk (polytheism) and accept

Islamic Monotheism] and perform As-Saldt (Iqámat-as-Saldtí,
and give Zakát, then leave their way free." (9:5)
And:
Á~ .~l~\ .•~.:~ (~'~'í\)~\O'-::J"1Jí\ >1""-::'1/ i "'G' ~ J:.
"'-~:Y -Jr»~ '."....-'...1 ~ ... .J' 'J"''-..;lJ ~ I.l" "1'
"But if they repent, perform As-Salát tIqámat-as-Salátí and give
Zakát, then they are your brethren in religion." (9: 11)
These twoAyat state that those who do not establish the prayer will not
be set free but, instead, will be killed, because they are not among our
brethren in religion. Alláh said that the dwellers of the Fire will be
asked:
What Negates Islam 123

"What has caused you to enter Hell? They will say: We were
not of those who used to offer the Salát (prayers)."
Until:

"So no intercession of intercessors will be of any use to them."

(74:42-48)
Alláh states in this Áyah that among the reasons that caused them to
enter the Fire was that they did not pray. Alláh states next that they
will not benefit from the intercession of anyone on their behalf, and
this indicates that they are not Muslims, since Muslims will benefit
from the Shafá' (intercession), by Alláh ' s Leave. Also, the Prophet ~
said:
. ((~~\_/) d5:}\ ~~).'.
. / -' ':,// ~ LSJJ\ J+jl)) /

"The prayer is the pledge (or connection) that separates us from

them (disbelievers)."
This Hadith indicates that the prayer is the sign or distinction between
the Kuffar and Muslims, meaning that those who do not pray are not
Muslims. Also, the Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
/' '" , /' :j- - ; " -' e ","
. ((ó'>l:::JI
/
~, .. ~"Ij
.r / r'"' ~ r (.r-U ..(;JI
\ :c'1j
/'
~ ,/))
«<>
Lr-!
~

"Between the sJave and Kufr -or Shirk- is abandoning the

prayer."
These Texts, from the Book of Alláh and the Sunnah of His
Messenger, indicate the Kufr and reversion from the religion of those
who abandon prayer, even though they call themselves Muslims and
live in the area of Islam. In the present time, a large crowd of Muslims
have abandoned the prayer and belittled its significance, even though
they know that those who do not pray will not have a share in Islam
and will be required (by Muslim Authorities) to repent and pray.
Otherwise, they will be executed as Kuffar and will not be buried in
What Negates Islam 124

Muslim graveyards. In this case, their rightfuI Muslim inheritors would

not inherit anything from them, for their wealth would be confiscated
and given to the Muslim Treasury. Those who do not pray must be
made to divorce their wives also, because a Kajir cannot marry a
Muslim woman, just as A1Hlh said:

~!:L~ ~ 1; r11 ¿;. ;Í "

"They are not lawful (wives) for the disbelievers nor are the
disbeJievers lawful (husbands) for them." (60: 1O)
Therefore, those who do not pray are not allowed to marry a Muslim
woman, nor will their Muslim wives be allowed to remain with them.
Had Alláhs Law been applied to these criminals, Muslim areas and
homes would get rid of their filth, and their fate would deter others
from committing this crime. However, when Muslims shied away from
these criminals and allowed them to share their homes and marry their
daughters or sisters, their crime became common practice that is not
considered with surprise or admonishment any more! There is no
power or strength except from Alláh, the Greatest.
O Muslims! Even though embracing un-Islamic ideologies, such as
cornrnunisrn, socialism and nationalism, negates Islam, yet, this
practice has become cornrnon occurrence nowadays in Muslim
societies. Indeed, any Muslim who embraces such creeds, defends
them or helps their people against Muslims, will have committed an
act of reversion from Islam and become a Kafir. Let us be aware of our
religion and seek our benefit. Let us know the true essence of Islam
and acquire knowledge in all acts and creeds that negate it, so that we
are aware of them and avoid them, as well as, those who propagate or
practice them.
O Alláh! Grant us more knowledge of Islam and make us firm on its
path until the Day we meet You as Muslims who did not deviate or
change Your religion. O Lord of all that exists! O Alláh! Show us the
truth as such, and grant us the quality of following and embracing it.
Show falsehood to us as such, and grant us the quality ofavoiding it.
What Negates Islam 125

~J j;: ~: ~ Jí J.:4ií~ ~ L: ~ ~ ~;-j ~ GtJ 6Jí 0l ~

~r:'~~í~)l:¡;"; 0J.!.LJG~\~S o~~l)
."'/ ", .. /' ..
~/~-1:íí""':-:':\-;\ O·../(·\ ..í·--: .. ::íd· . . . . fí .r-:

--:.;;-:::
~~.J....:-'-"~ ~' M--'-"'.)!-~ jP>..)'r':.~4J,l'J-r:á ~

(2~ ,~~--} ~.j;=~ ~í ~ l: L:.~ ~.í ~\ ~s O ~~~t

~~l,:j
"Verily, those who have turned back (have apostatized) as
disbelievers after the guidance has been manifested to them ­
Shaitán (Satan) has beautified for them (their false hopes), and
(Alláh) prolonged their term (age). This is because they said to
those who hate what Alláh has sent down: 'We will obey you in
part of the matter.' But Alláh knows their secrets. Then how
(will it be) when the angels will take their souls at death, smiting
their faces and their backs? That is because they followed that
which angered Alláh and hated that which pleased Him. So He
made their deeds fruitless." (47 :25-28)

May Alláh direct us and you to the blessings of the Glorious Qurán
and benefit us and you in whatever is in it ofthe Áyat and Wise Dhikr.
1 say this and ask Alláh the Great, and the Most Honored for
forgiveness for me, you and al! MusJims for every sin. Invoke Him for
1
forgiveness, for He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

1 AI-Khutab Al-Minboriyyah, by Shaikh Salih Al-Fazan, vol. 1, p. 21

Invoking Alláh for Muslim Leaders 126

Invoking Alláh for Muslim Leaders

AII praises and thanks are due to Alláh, the Most Gracious, Most
Merciful, Owner of the Day of Resurrection. A 11 praise and thanks are
due to Alláh, Who created creation so that they worship Hirn. He rnade
His Signs clear and plain to thern, so that they know Hirn, and He
rnade the path to Him easy, so that they reach Hirn.
I bear witness that non e has the right to be worshipped except Alláh
Alone without partners. His is the kingdom and He is Worthy of all
praise, and He is Able to do all things. I testify that our Prophet, Imam
and exarnple, Muharnrnad, is Alláhs slave and Messenger. Alláh has
sent Muharnrnad with the guidance and the religion of truth to be a
Warner for mankind and the jinn. May Alláhs peace and blessings be
on the Prophet and on his progeny, Companions and those who
followed hirn with excellence.

Dear Muslimsl Remember Alláh always and praise Hirn in the

rnorning and evening. Know, may Alláh grant you His Merey, that
Dhikr (Alláhs rernembrance) is the best speech to Alláh. Abu Dhar
«s- 11 ~) narrated a Hadith in which he said that the Messenger of
Alláh ~ said to him:
...- "" "" o -; .-- --...- ,/" ..... ~" ,,{ ~
,. .1l1 0~ :/...1l1 Jl ¡"YSJI ~I ¿'1 ~/...1l1 Ji ¡"YSJI ~L,~ ~'-:-":'1 :i\lI
/ '

"Should I tell you about the most beloved speech to Alláh? The
most beloved speech to Alláh is, 'Subhan alláhi wa bi­
Hamdahi,' (1 exalt Alláh aboye allunsuitable things ascribed to
Him, and all the praises are for Him).'"
Muslim collected this Hadith. Dhikr (remembering Alláh) brings life
to the hearts, enlightens and purifies them and fills them with
happiness. Therefore, remember Alláh always, humble yourselves
before Him and invoke Him in Du 'a, for
~Q -~ e ;';.,.... ~
. ((¡;.)~\ Y. .. l.Y1ll))
Invoking Alláh for Muslim Leaders 127

"Du 'á (invocation) is the Ebadah (worship)," where Ebadah pertains

to acts of worship. Invoke Alláh for all your needs, minor and major,
the necessary ones and those you can wait to attain. Await Alláh ' s
relief (and it will surely come). Alláh said:
""'~ /-./0 / /~ /-:; -~~./l./o ." }..
"t:" ~.J \&.pa.> r--;:.
J '.Y.)\ r

"Invoke your Lord with humility and in secret." (7:55)

Know, dear Muslims, that when a Muslim says Du 'á for the benefit of
his Muslim brother or sister, he or she eams Alláhs rewards. Alláh
said:
(~/;. ~
~~~
jí t;.P:·~r
/J>"vJ
t:::J ~.J
- . ~í C/ ";"';"'>YY:
~.1 ~/. ~ ~ ";1: »: ~í/)..
~/ .~.J . ~/ ~1'

~~..¡~
_ "es. .-­

"And those who carne after them say: Our Lord! Forgive us and
our brethren who have precededus in Faith." (59: 10)
Further, Abu Ad-Dardá' and 'Uwaimir bin Zaid ~ 1\ c?J said that
they heard the Messenger of Alláh ~ say:
~;.J~
~ í :~íj\ J~ ~\• ~I
. - '.t:.. ~~ .Y.r;---
~;.;
".x; .t:..:' ~ ~ ~»
,. ~
'" " . . , "" ;JI

.«~
, ;

"Every Muslim slave who invokes Alláh for the benefit of his
absent brother (in Islam), then the angel will reply, 'Amin, and
for you the same. '"
This Hadith was collected by Muslim. Abu Ad-Dardá' =- 1, c?J also
narrated that the Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
'J5"s,..
yo
.1Jí:. ; J;J J.l.y; ,'b;:>:.
4••
.'
~\
."
'.t:.. ~~ - \'d~ I1 ..'; ' 1 ;; ';))
~;.; r - ; r - ' .Y
'" "" "" '" ,
. «~ ~J ~í :~ JS~I ~í JI J~ ~;~~ ~; LJS
" '" '" " ,
"The invocation of Alláh by a Muslim person for the benefit of
his absent brother (in Islam) is accepted. There will be an angel
right next to his head who is entrusted with the job of replying,
'Amín, and for you the same,' every time he invokes Alláh for
his brother to eam all that is good and righteous. lO'
Invoking Alláh for Muslim Leaders 128

Also, Muslim collected this Hadith. It was reported that Abu Ad­
Dardá' es- 1\ ¿..) used to invoke Alláh for seventy of his companions by
name when they were not present with him, thus testifying that his
heart was pure towards his brethren.
Therefore, since invoking A1Hih for other Muslims carries a reward for
the Muslim, then there is no doubt that invoking Alláh for Muslim
Leaders to lead Muslims righteously and honestly carries greater
reward and bounties from Alláh. Also, invoking Alláh for other
Muslims is a part of the sincere advice that Muslims must deliver to
their brethren. Tamim bin Aus Ad-Darri =- 1\ ¿..) narrated:
~::
~
qjj á;___~\ c.r.
~ jj\))
.....
: J~ ~
_o
ó
~
:'11 ~t l.?J
............
~ liJI ¡J'.)
ft1
't·'
-:.r. ~~:(//
..........

• ((' .ó~/ ~ d'lI ~{~r .J ~ / \/ . . . ~y .&1I : J~

. \
~ .) u::;;--- / / .) / "Y ..J:') / ~ / /.) /
"The Prophet ~ said, 'The religion is sincerity.' We said, 'To
whom?' He said, 'To Alláh, His Book, His Messenger and to
Muslim Leaders and their common folk."
Invoking Alláh for Muslim Leaders becomes more important if they
refer to what Alláh has revealed for judgment, call to His Path and
warn against defying Him. Therefore, the believing slave should draw
closer to Alláh by invoking Him for Muslim Leaders, because when
they are righteous, the Ummah (Muslim Nation) in general benefits
from their righteousness, and the vice versa. We should warn against
the practice of those who do not have knowledge and whose habit is to
defame their leaders and curse them, thus earning sin because of their
ill-mannerism. There is a big difference between advising, and cursing
and defaming. Muslims should offer sincere advice to their leaders, but
should refrain from cursing them for fear that this might shatter the
unity of the Ummah, causing a larger evil than the one they seek to
remove. This, if it happens, will only please the enemies of Islam and
bring comfort to their hearts.
Know that when Muslim Leaders are righteous, the Muslim Nation
will benefit as a whole. Abu Umamah ~ 1\ ~) narrated that the
Prophet ~ said:
Invoking Alláh lar Muslim Leaders 129

.11C5G r-SJ r-P 5G ~~ C)Q~

, '
~'.&\ ;;\j ~\¡IIF '1))
"Do not curse your leaders and invoke Alláh to make them
righteous, for their righteousness brings about your well-being
as well."¡
This Hadith asserts the requirement from Muslims to advise their
leaders and invoke Alláh to make them righteous and fair. Also,
implementing this Hadith serves to unite the Ummah, just as the
*
Prophet commanded.
Umm AI-Husain Al-Ahmasiyyah l.p .1\ -?) said that she heard the
Messenger of Alláh ~ say in a Khutbah he delivered at Arafat:
. II~~ Lj' 'j I ' / ~ .&1 ,-,8:, ,~~~ ~/ ~ '_ <'í;:. '1-:'- '.\
e í'))
~ J ~ / " '~I y.¿ . 1':"""""" ~ -!J
"Even if a slave is appointed your commander, leading you
according to Alláhs Book, then hear him and obey."
Abdullah, son of Imam Ahmad, commented:
"1 heard my father say, '1 beIieve that the Leader has the right on
me that 1 hear and obey him in times of ease and times of
hardship, whether 1 feel vitality or relaxation.' (Muslim, Ahmad
and lbn Mdjah collected this Hadithi.
Imam Ahmad bin Hanbal, who is known as the Imam of the Ahlus­
Sunnah wal-Jama 'ah, used to say:

"If 1 have an accepted supplication, 1will invoke Alláh on behalf

ofthe Muslim Leader."
This statement from lmam Ahmad indicates his knowIedge and
understanding in the religion. If the Muslim Leader is righteous and
just, the entire country will benefit, righteousness will flourish, Alláhs
blessings will descend on them, the righteous believers will become
dominant and the eviI ones will be humiliated. Invoking Alláh for

AI-Haithami said, "This Hadith was collected by At-Tabarani in his

books, Al-Ausat and Al-Kabir, from his teacher, whom r did not recognize.
The rest ofhis chain ofnarration is reliable."
Invoking Alldh for Muslim Leaders 130

Muslim Leaders is a way of helping one another in righteousness and

fear from Alláh it unites the word of the Ummah, brings their hearts
together and makes their Leader feel kind towards his nation.

Imam Ahmad and Muslim narrated that 'Auf bin Malik AI-Ashja'i
said:
Yt.>-I) : j ~, ~ .wl J y , ~ : J~' ".\1\ ¿U~ .' .s '.'
Jo, y.: .", .Y-"J, ~" ':! ,Y':/
j"''' """ j''''­

~\~j .~ ~pj ~ ~):a;j ¡S;~j ~~:; ~i

QJ "J OJO..... j j '" j j -::; J -;
.ú..;
. ((~<o\~' ~ ~J r ~J ~ ~ ;J!.,
r- ~J 'Y~<o\:' ,/, o.'Y' ,Y. ~jJ\ j.<o:~1
. r-:::-:­ 0"-

'1Í .~~\ (JJ \;~1 ~ . '11) : J~ ~~~ ~ ~\~ )lj1 ,.wl J;'j~
~
~ --~ ~
<..f'-'(:; , - ,4Íl\ ~
'-, ~ ~ <..f'-.
~ o .r,JI-, ~~1ili ~tJ f.~
-t:; ~T': J ,­ __
//
J

. ((~ú, ~, I~ ~;:,.
,
'1j ,.wl ~~ 'a:~
"1 heard the Messenger of Alláh say, 'The best of your Imams
(Leaders) are those who you lave and they lave you, for whom
you invoke Alláh for merey and blessings and they invoke Alláh
for you for merey and blessings. The worst of your lmarns are
those whom you hate and they hate you, whom you curse and
they curse you.' We asked, 'o Alláhs Messenger! Should we
fight them in the latter case?' He said, 'No, as long as they
establish the prayer for you. Verily, if a commander is appointed
over one of you and he witnessed his commander committing
Alláh's disobedience, let him hate the disobedience of Alláh that
he is comm itting, but refrain fram rising against him. '"

Therefore, O Alláh's slaves, fear Alláh and feel His Watch as if He is

right in frant of your eyes. Invoke Alláh to grant righteousness to us
all, and our leaders, and to make our Leaders among those who fear
Him, seek refuge with Him, follow His Commandments and seek His
Pleasure.
¡$:J ~~ ~ ¡.5:J ~ O K;. :1; LJ)'; ~í r;ií ~(~Jí C:~ ,
~\~ _~~ c; j~ jjj fI?.J'; ~í ~ .;.; ~J~
Invoking Allóh for Muslim L¿aders 131

"O you who believe! Keep your duty to Alláh and fear Him, and
speak (always) the truth. He will direct you to do righteous good
deeds and will forgive you your sins. And whosoever obeys
Alláh and His Messenger (~), he has indeed achieved a great
achievement (i.e., he will be saved from the Hell-fire and will be
admitted to Paradise)." (33:70,71)
Rights and Duties o/ Muslim Leaders 132

Rights and Duties of Muslim Leaders

All praises and thanks are due to Alláh Whose Favor directed the
believers to guidance, and because of His justice, the wicked were
misguided. He is never asked about what He does, while they all will
be asked. I thank and praise Him and testify that there is no deity
worthy of worship except Alláh Alone, without partners, and that
Muhammad *' is His slave and Messenger. May Alláhs peace and
blessings be on Muhammad, his progeny, Companions and all those
who followed him.
o Alláh's slaves! Islam carne to honor mankind and as a merey for
them. Islam carne to organize mankind's affairs in life, whether
material or spiritual, and establish thern on firm grounds of reform and
on strong foundations. Islam carne to explain to people the causes of
wickedness and evil, so that they avoid them and the causes of safety,
so that they embrace them.
Among the aspects that Islam explained, is one's relationship with his
Lord, Prophet, Leaders and Commanders. Alláh said:

~~ Y;::'¡í ~t j;.)í ~iJ~~ i;;\:Zr.Jí (f~ );

"O you who believe! Obey Alláh and obey the Messenger
(Muhammad *'), and those of you (Muslims) who are in
authority." (4:59)
Those in authority, is in reference to those who are responsible for
public duty, whether a Grand Imam, scholar of the religion,
commander, president ofthe people and so forth.
Alláh, Owner of the Mighty Power, has ordained great rights for those
Muslims who are in authority, in this Áyah. Fulfilling these rights
ensures tranquillity, peace and harmony for the Muslim Ummah
(Nation). Alláh, Who has ordained these rights, is the AII-Knower of
the secrets of this universe and the nature of mankind, that require the
presence of leaders and the absence of disputes and uprisings.
Tranquillity ensures a stable social life and protects the nation from
Rights and Duties ofMuslim Leaders 133

disarray that is stirred by the ignorant and the foolishness of the

wicked. Alláh ordained these rights for Muslim Leaders and made
them a part of His worship that should be fulfilled in times of hardship
and times of ease, in times of activity and times of relaxation, and even
under the rule oftyranny. This is always the case, unless one is ordered
to do what he cannot bear or to disobey Alláh, in which case, there is
no hearing or obedience in the disobedience of Alláh. The Messenger
of Alláh ~ said:

~: ;'::~) 1~1 '11 "~jj ~i ~ ~lkJlj ~I pi ~rJI fij))

.((;;L1 ':1j ~ )\j
"A Muslim person is required to hear and obey with regards to
what he likes or dislikes, unless he is ordered to commit Alláh's
disobedience, then there is no hearing or obeying."
A decision that Alláh has ordained and from which He brings great
benefits in this life and tremendous rewards in the Hereafter is worthy
for the Muslim to embrace and adhere by.
Referring to what Alláh has revealed for judgment, establishing
Alláhs Law, directing people to worship Alláh Alone and abandoning
all other deities are sorne of the best and most significant duties,
ordained on Muslim Leaders. Fulfilling these duties will bring about
all that is good and righteous, so that Alláhs blessings will descend on
the Muslim Ummah at large.
Fear Alláh, O Alláhs slaves, and seek the means of approach to Him
by fulfilling His Commandments. Obey your Muslim Leaders, invoke
Alláh for them, help them in Birr (righteousness) and Taqwa (piety)
and practice patience with them, as long as they obey Alláh and His
Messenger and establish Alláhs religion. Know that whenever an
uprising against leaders starts, the devil shakes the hand that started it,
and thus, that person will be exposed to various trials and lures in life
and religion. In this case, one will die in a state of Jahiliyyah (the term
that described the pre-Islamic era of ignorance). In contrast, wise
persons are aware of the danger of disobeying Muslim Leaders and the
Rights and Duties o/Muslim Leaders 134

mischief caused by rising and rebelling against them. Only Alláh

knows the extent of evil that uprisings cause, and this is why the
Prophet, who was sent as a guide for mankind, said the following
Hadith, so that Muslims avoid this evil and protect themselves against
it.
•
."
((~~ ~F~
....- 'V'.... "jo...-'/ ..-- ""

,';"w ~~\ J'J\jJ

"...-'" ...- ~
,~lb..l\ ~ C? ~))
...­

"Whoever reneges regarding obedience (to Muslim Leaders) and

abandons the Jama'ah (the community of the believers) then
died, then his death is one of Jahiliyyah (ignorance)."
In addition, the Prophet :!i said:
'V',/ ~ ,;;......¡;./ jo'/ .....
¡;...... " ,/

.(G·~...:::..r ¡)15~·/ ~'-(~\:;"~l;¡)I' 1~ '-Í' I ~/O\))

._~J J ~. Y.r-::s.: J ~ r-=-.r
"Hear and obey, even if an Ethiopian slave whose face looks
like a raisin was appointed your commander."
Further, Al-Bukhári and Muslim narrated that 'Ubadah bin As-Samit
es- 11 ~J said:

re; ,~ J ~,2'.' (6:\ . ~LbJI' .::'~¡I í;. ~ .&1 J ~, G:;\:

,.T""'J, t..I-, J s=- ~ -", Y"'J -.
~:J\))_.&\J~' .'- -J'~ :J.;.r,,)'\,·~'fI' ,¡:'í:;'Ó'4¡' ,~,
e;~J
~,Y"'J~ .r tJ J - • .rJ

. ((~~,~ w.&1 ~ ,~~~ L:.r' 1- ~< l' <:

..r. '-" ~ r ' y..r- J.r
"We gave our pledge of allegiance to the Messenger of Alláh to
hear and obey in times of vitality and times of relaxation, times
of hardship and times of ease, even if we were not preferred
with things as others are, and to refrain from disputing with
lawfulleaders." The Messenger of Alláh continued, "Unless you
witness clear, unequivocal Kufr (from the leader) for which you
have evidence from Alláh."

O Alláh's slaves, those who have any type of authority or

responsibility! Know that Alláh, the Just Ruler of al! that exists, has
ordained for you rights on those under your responsibility and
commanded that these rights be respected. Likewise, Alláh has
ordained duties on you for those who are under your authority and
Rights and Duties 01Muslim Leaders 135

responsibility. Alláh has made you aware of the seriousness and

importance ofyour job by the words ofHis Messenger ss:
s :»
(I¿;- ~
. //./J(f
"" "
J~"
jot,J.
/ '- <1</
J)---"I-J~JI-
<\()) r '-
"Each one ofyou is responsible and each will be asked about his -
(or her) responsibility."
Fear Alláh with regards to the responsibility that Alláh has entrusted
you. Fulfill your duties towards your subjects and those whom Alláh
allowed you to be responsible for. This way, you will be among the
best Imam (Leaders), just as Alláh's Messenger ~ said:
,.., t.,... /',.... /' .: . . . Jo Jo a,.... Jo Jo ..:; Jo -;:
¡J .\_~/
y-.'"'-'..J
'.. ,'\;" ¡JI_< '<C: t s >
~ r---' J
»Ó>',

r-.r:>;'.J r-+'J7';'
•• ~ .Ll\
-:r. / ...
I~
<.:~\ /J.t.>/ .;:;
¡J\))
~
~ /

.((~
"Your best Imams are those whom you love and they love you,
for whom you invoke Alláh (for merey and pardon), and they
invoke Alláh for you (for merey and pardon)."
AIso, this way you will avoid those, whom the Prophet ~ described in
his statement:
J O , . . , s.: 0,....
<~:~\' \/ ./))
J J Jo ,.... Jo Jo -:; Jo -;
((' <C: .:::.I~/ ,~.~:\~/ '<C: .. '~/ ,~ . . • '. ~
. r-~J r-+'~J r-~J r-+'~ -:r./.Ll1~-I~ J r: J

"The worst of your Imams are those whom you hate and they
hate you and you curse them and they curse you."
Know that ruling Muslims with justice and being compassionate and
lenient with them, are among the duties Muslim Leaders have towards
their subjects. Alláh the Exalted said:

~ J ~8í ~ ~ \~~ ~ ~l.;/:i'~í i1:,~ J ?~\ :&í 0~. t

"'Jx.ít
"'l::/ ..
"Verily, Alláh commands that you should render back the trusts
to those, to whom they are due; and that when you judge
between men, youjudge withjustice." (4:58)
L ,.... ·~í/ J.iJt >·'t/~í~, ~ :l..
"'l::~.. '-' / ;..r".4.ll u..V r
Rights and Duties ofMuslim Leaders 136

"Verily, Alláh enjoins Al- 'Adl (i.e., justice and worshipping

none but Alláh Alone - Islámic Monotheism) and Al-Ihsán
[i.e., to be patient in performing your duties to Alláh, totally for
Alláh's sake and in accordance with the Sunnah (legal ways) of
the Prophet ~ in a perfect manner]." (16:90)
And:
,,(...--:-~ .. :>ií~... ~ ..... \~G.. : ·:í" ."~
"t.~-~-""' v" . ~ . ~'J

"And be kind and humble to the believers who follow you."

(26:215)
Know that those whom you are responsible for also have the right on
you to be sincere with them, to advise them with their benefits and to
fend off harm from them. Beware of all actions and statements that
might enrage the subjects or cause division and enviousness between
them, including preferring yourselves with the delights of ruling, while
treating them with harshness and heavy-handedness. Do not require
them to perform what is beyond their capabilities and what they cannot
bear, for all this will lead them to dislike your rule and dispute with
you in this life, thus exposing themselves to painful torment in the
Hereafter. The Prophet ~ said:
"""''11 ,:;, I-::.\i. ' , L / o / ' ''''-:'''''''1 L:,))
i? !:- '~.r...(,.)""' rJur-:iy-ur-:~J.w ~~~~

.((¿j\~'4\
. ...­
"Any slave whom Alláh has entrusted with responsibility and
authority and dies, when it is time for him to die, while
deceiving his subjects, then Alláh will forbid Paradise for him."
In another narration, the Prophet ~ said:
Q

I...:.j:; ._ I ,1
jo ""
~ \,
J
/........., --t ;.
1 ~.:.~ :¡-- ,.J ,~\"
o
I¡'" , {.\ \~
-¡
\'. L:,))

u- - í !:- ~J ~..,..-;-:. r-' ~ JY '--V- ~ ~

.((w\~
"Every Amir (Leader, Commander) who is entrusted with
authority over Muslims and refrains from giving them his best
Rights and Duties 01 Muslim Leaders 137

efforts and from being honest with them, will not enter Paradise
with them."
It was reported that 'Á'idh bin 'Amr, -= 1\ c?J, went to 'Ubaidullah bin
Ziyad and said to him, "Son! 1 heard Alláh's Messenger ~ say:

•
jo"

((~:J~
,... .J,." --: -" j."""
:Jí ;)~1J •~I ~~:.Jl r- ~k)J
,... ..­

"The worst leaders are the harsh, hardhearted. Do not be among

them!"
This type of leaders, who are hard and lack compassion and kindness,
should be aware that he whose supplication to Alláh is accepted said:
~, JJ
.' ~J ,..:J;
/ . ~~ ¡;:-
'-- .'í~ -.;r-
.~~ ~ •
·~r ~~.J
'-:f.:'"!' 'r
~ '1' (.)'"~' ¡,.¡1l\»
0)1,... .> ",?,. {.-:

((....,:j'Ü' ""l:;:..,;, ·~I 'í

. ,~\.T) ~~ ~.T • '-:r:"!'
"O Alláh! He who assumes a type of leadership over my
Ummah (Muslim s) and becomes hard with them, then be hard
with him. He who assumes a type of leadership over my Ummah
and is kind with them, then be kind with him."
1 say these words and ask Alláh to direct Muslim Leaders, who are
supposed to be protectors of Islam and Muslims, to succeed in bringing
about their own religious benefit, as well as the religious benefit of
their subjects. Verily, He is the best of those who are sought, Oft­
Forgiving, the Most Merciful. 1

1 Ahadith Al-Jumu 'ah, p. 39-41

The Danger Disunity Poses to Muslims 138

Tbe Danger Disunity Poses to Muslims

AI\ thanks are due to AI\<1h Lord of the Worlds. We thank and praise
Him for guiding us to the religion of Islam, and we wou1d not have
been directed to it if AIHih did not guide uso Tbear witness that there is
no deity worthy of worship except Alláh Alone, without partners,
Worthy of all praise in the Hereafter and this life. His is the Decision
and to Him shall be our retum.
I bear witness that our master and Prophet Muhammad is Alláh's slave
and Messenger whom He sent as a merey to the Worlds:
"'( ..L :/( ;:/.. /( ,-.:;)..
,,~/ !J~J ~"T

"As a witness, as a bearer of glad tidings, and as a warner."

(48:8)
~0'~~~~~h~íj~~\~~ "
"And as one who invites to AI\<1h [Islámic Monotheism, i.e. to
worship none but Alláh (Alone)] by His Leave, and as a lamp
spreading light (through your instructions from the Qur'án and
the Sunnah-the legal ways ofthe Prophet :i)." (33:46)
May Alláh's peace and blessings be on Muhammad, his progeny,
Companions and all those who followed his guidance and spread his
cal1 (of Islamic Monotheism).
Alláh the Exalted created mankind and endowed them with the ability
to comprehend and distinguish between things. Alláh gave mankind
the power of mind and understanding, so that they know what benefits
them and what harms them, what is good and pure and what is evil and
impure, and which path to take. Meanwhile, Alláh's path is straight,
plainly clear and filled with light, leading to the Lord of aI\ that exists.
Other than this Straight Path, there are wicked and crooked ways that
lead to various paths, all of which are paths of misguidance and loss.
Everyone among mankind chooses the path that he or she wants to go
on in this life and they will all end up doing what Alláh has decided
they would be doing.
The Danger Disunity Poses to Muslims 139
....;.
((.0 ~·1':'- w.,.-;~
~ ~.r-,:4
. U'"
--1 -'.... ;
"1(' •• \ Y;.\»
.r-r:
"Work, for each one wil1 be helped to acquire what he (or she)
was created fOr."l
Therefore, mankind has only two paths to take: the path of goodness
and righteousness, which is Straight, or the path of evil, which is
crooked and has many parts and ways all leading astray and to
misguidance. Mankind is able to distinguish between these conflicting
paths, especially if they analyze various statements and acts to help
them identify various creed s and methodologies.
There is a very active, yet secretive international movement in the
present time, started and steered by Jews and communists, who are
working tirelessly to destroy religions and morals, especial1y and
foremost, Tauhid. It is the secular movement called, Almaniyyah, in
Arabic. This movement instigates trouble, disputes and disunity
between Muslims, in particular, and between father and son, families,
and employees and employers. They stir disputes regarding dealings,
acts of worship, creeds, traditions and trends. They seek to deviate
Muslim governments and peoples from Alláh's Straight Path to the
various sects and methodologies of misguidance, so that the Muslim
Nation's strength departs them and their unity shatters. If and when
this occurs and the secularists succeed (Alláh forbids), Muslims wil1 no
longer be able to defend themselves against their enemies. For their
strength will be spent in disputing with each other, with all the evil
consequences such disputes bring forth.
When troubles are addressed at the onset, it wil1 be easier to solve
them before they become rooted in the ground and have many
branches. Otherwise, they will beco me much harder to deal with. It is a
blessing from Alláh that He grants the Muslims unity and purifies their
'Aqeedah (beliefs) with the help of righteous rulers. The result of this
is that the Muslims will live in case, safety, tranquillity and security.

1 Al-Bukhári, H.7551 and Fath Al-Bari Sharh Sahih Al-Bukhdri, vol. 13, p.
521 and Muslim 6, 7, and 8
The Danger Disunity Poses to Muslims 140

The Muslim nation will be blessed with solidarity, honor and might.
Worship will be directed towards Alláh Alone, and the Sunnah of our
Prophet Muhammad ~ will be followed in the manner in which he
brought it. This is a blessing upon the Muslim nation that the enemies
of Islam envy. We long to enjoy this peace, tranquillity and unity
around Imán, the Islamic Creed and the Sunnah of our Prophet ~. We
ask Alláh to make this peace and unity prevalent in all Muslim areas.
Because of this prevalent tranquillity, the enemies of Islam work hard
and use various deviant and wicked methods to stir disputes between
Muslims and resurrect old conflicts so that secularists, masons, Jews
and communists are able to assume the leadership of the Muslim
Nation at large. It is asad fact that Muslim nations do not refer to
Alláh's Law and the Sunnah of His Messenger ~ for judgment. Let all
Muslim Leaders be certain that the only One Able to grant them
victory is Alláh. They will regain their might only through Alláhs help
and aid. Let them know that only Muslims will support them, those
who fol1ow their Faith and practice their religion.
Another aspect of the war against Islam, is that there are elements
living among Muslims and enjoying the peace and tranquillity that the
Muslim Society offers them. Yet, because they follow various
misguided sects and groups, they try their best to resurrect the methods
of their groups that cause division and shake the foundation of the
society that offered them safe refuge. They try to discredit the correct
faith and ann ul the true belief in Alláh and in the Messenger of Merey
and Guidance, Muhammad ~. Consequently, it is incumbent on alJ
Muslims, especially the scholars and those in authority among them, to
protect the fabric of the Muslim Society and its faith, which is the
resource that provides it with victory and dominance by Alláhs help.
Fear Alláh a Muslims, a Muslim Leaders, a defenders oflslam!
We ask Alláh to give triumph to Bis religion and raise high Bis Word
and the flag of the Islamic Faith, and make it mighty, victorious and
apparent over the whole world. We invoke Alláh to protect our area
and the entire Muslim Nation, as wel1 as its creed, from the evil plots
ofthe envious enemies oflslam. We invoke Alláh to protect for us our
Second Khutbah 143

progeny and those who followed them with exeellenee until the Day of
Resurreetion. O Alláh' Grant us Your pleasure, with Your Compassion
and Kindness, O You Who is the Most Mereiful among those who have
merey.
O Alláh! Give vietory and aid to Islam and Muslims. Unite their word,
gather their ranks, guide them to the ways of peaee and take them out
of darkness to the brightness of light. O Alláh! Grant triumph to the
Muslim armies. Make their feet firm, their hearts strong and aid them
against the disbelieving people.
O Alláh! Humiliate Shirk and its people and destroy the enemies of
Islam. O Alláh! Make the efforts of the Jews and all those who help
them fruitless. O Alláhl Send fear to their hearts, dissipate their ranks,
disunite their gatherings and make them taste the evil end, as well as
defeat. Verily, You are the Most Powerful, Able to do all things.
O Alláhl Forgive all Muslims, male and female, those among them
who died and those who are still alive. O Alláh! Remove the sadness
of the depressed and send relief to the distressed. O Alláh! Help those
indebted to repay their debts and heal Muslims who are ill, O slaves of
Alláh, always be in remembranee of Alláh and thank Him for His
graees and Favors:
;~í if ~~ ~;:Jí \5~ ~~h~ ~ ," :.it ~.iJ~ ~t ~í ~l $ ~
,*-¿J}:;; r~dCí~~t~t
"Verily, Alláh enjoins Al- 'Adl and Al-Ihsán, and giving (help) to
kith and kin, and forbids Al-Fahshá', and Al-Munkar, and
Al-Baghy. He admonishes you, that you may take heed." (16:90)

,*-5;:' ,¿,~ ~~t;bt;tí ~;JJ ~

"And the remembering (praising) of AlIfih is greater indeed. And
Alláh knows what you do." (29:45)1

1 Kitab AI-Jumu 'ati wal-A 'yad, by Shaikh Abdullah bin Zahim, p. 355-360
Enjoining Righteousness and Forbidding Evil 144

Enjoining Rigbteousness
and Forbidding Evil
All thanks are to Alláh, Who directed His Auliyá' (loyal friends) to
perform the actions that He likes and prefers. His just destiny delivered
to the people of disobedience their just fate He gives aid and support to
those who obey and fear Him, and feel anger for His Anger and I
pleasure for His Pleasure. 1 thank and praise Him for the tremendous
bounties and guidance He granted His slaves and for His favors,
kindness and compassion. 1 bear witness that there is no deity worthy
of worship except Alláh Alone, without partners, a testimony from he
who knows Alláh and serves none else. 1 also bear witness that
Muhamrnad ~ is Alláhs slave and Messenger, whom He has chosen,
sent as a Messenger and ordered to obey and fear Him and shun the
obedience ofthe disbelievers and hypocrites. O Alláhl grant Your best
blessings and merey on Your slave and Messenger, Muhammad, and
on his progeny, Companions and all those who followed him and
dedicated their support and loyalty to him.
O people! Fear Alláh and know that He keeps perfect watch over you.
Revere His commands and never disobey Him. Know that enjoining
good and forbidding evil is one of the greatest duties and tasks
entrusted to Muslims. Why is it that we witness a general trend of
ignoring and abandoning the duty of enjoining righteousness and
forbidding evil, which AI1<lh has ordained and commanded? Why do so
many Muslims ignore this duty and abandon it? Is it because of their
feebleness and weakness, or because they dare disobey Alláh? Is it
because they feel safe from Alláh's plan, torment, anger and painful
punishment? Do they not know that fulfilling the honorable duty of
enjoining good and forbidding evil ensures their happiness and safety
and ~rns them immunity from Alláh's punishment and torment?
Hence, what is the reason behind this laziness and ignoring of this
duty, while satisfying lusts and desires, and thus, daring to commit
what angers the Creator of the heavens and earth? Know that this evil
 Enjoining Righteousness and Forbidding Evil 145

behavior warrants removing Alláh's blessings and receiving torments

and disasters. Have they not heard Alláh ' s statement:
~;.; .~/ //-'". ;'// "" .. """r ~)// / ..-:~~,,~
>;-'.rA y-:'\ ~J .)~\.) ~~ ~ ~&~ ~ ~ Ij~ .¿~\ ~ r
~;. G~(·~~ 1i}lb O ~J~: .~ ijlbj ¡~ ~ ~G
-: J'í ---:"'>YJ-:
~"
..-:--.:'\~::~ . "'~- ~~;::5 O G)"": i~lb 1.: ...-;, :l~
~ -" • lJl ~ ~
"-
~ '1'll/jí ~.J -=--t1; ~í ~ j ~ ~ ¿:~ L: ~ Ifjb
I ~S~
"Those among the Children of Israel who disbelieved were
cursed by the tongue of Dawüd (David) and 'Esa (Jesus), sen of
Maryam (Mary). That was because they disobeyed (Alláh and
the Messengers) and were ever transgressing beyond
bounds. They used not to forbid one another from Al-Munkar
(wrong, evildoing, sins, polytheism, disbelief) which they
committed. Vile indeed was what they used to do. You see many
of them taking the disbelievers as their Auliyá' (protectors and
helpers). Evil indeed is that which their own selves have sent
forward befo re them; for that (reason) Alláh's Wrath fell upon
them, and in torment they will abide." (5:78-80)
The Prophet ~ said:
'Pi if- ~Jg:"~J '~J~0~ ~~''(j !~.f;~ ~ ~ ,-?~IJ))
JoY. , "" ~ "" -¡. ~ ~ '" " "" "" "" """,,/ "" "" ::J Y. Jo""...../
,-,\~.Y.wl~~ ;.~\'I,\-L\-·:t¡ \;"Y..?LL::.r,~\..G \;"¡J.J.:,:.C:J~
~ . ..r-""'~ 0"'.¿:-::' J .r" <..r-' es:" .r: J ~.~ ~. es:" J
'((r~ ~jL:.5,,-<;,:I~"{ .'~ í;,_<;,::
r-----:: r-' ~ cr-: r~
"By He in Whose Hand is Muhammad's life! You will enjoin
righteousness, forbid evil, restrain the hands of the fools and
compel them to adhere by the truth, or Alláh will divide your
hearts from each other and then curse you as He cursed them
(Jews and Christians)."
In addition, the Prophet ~ said:
~ pi if- I~\J ~J~~ \J~ : J~ J~~.JJ\ ~1 ~8\ ~i ~))
Enjoining Righteousness and Forbidding Evil 146

jo ,,{

.((~I

"O people! Verily, Alláh the Exalted said, 'Enjoin righteousness

and forbid evil, before a time comes when you will invoke Me,
but I will not respond to your invocation, seek My help, but I
will not help you, and ask Me, but I will not give you. '"
In another Hadith, the Prophet ~ said:

~~r ~; ~ '11 pi :; ~\j ~J~~ :;~I f~ Zl;' ~j»

.((~j~~~~j
"No people abandoned enjoining good and forbidding evil,
except that their (good) deeds will not be ascended (to Alláh)
and their supplications will not be accepted (by Him)."
In a Mursal Hadith from Al-Hasan Al-Basri, where the name of the
Companionis missing, it was reported that the Prophet ~ said;'
0,~\;t 0,jl) ~.)~ ~ ~ ~ ...};j /.:lJI ~J .:::...;.; ~t'1\ ~~ JI; '111
jo/....-..... ..... ..... ' /;.~ .....
\I::'~ \~\j .~l::.>-l);'\/' ~ ~ ._\ ~/ d.;'/L;,j 0,~.~ !.j/.-' 0_\ ~/
Y'""'"' f; J_/ J..r::'~í J J. J J-í J

(J ~\ljl;.? ~;G ~~~ l--fí~ jj /. (J r~:¿ ~~~.:lJI~) ~~

.( ~:I\/ jWL, . »<: /.
J""'"' J / . ~.r-"
"This Ummah (Muslim nation) will be in¿luded in Alláhs
merey and care, until, and unless, its Qurrá (readers of the
Qur'án and scholars) compromise (in religion) with its leaders,
its righteous recommend its evil doers, and its evil members
humiliate its righteous members. When they do this, Alláhs

1 Editor Note: A Mursal Hadith is actually considered an unauthentic Hadith

that is not confmned to be a statement of the Prophet by itself. This is because
the narrator of the Hadith (in this case Al-Hasan) néver met the Prophet and
therefore could not have related anything directly from him. Scholars use
these narrations to support their arguments if there are similar authentic
narrations with the same meaning. However, the Mursal narrations, in general,
are not to be considered prophetic statements.
Enjoining Righteousness and Forbidding Evil 147

Hand will no longer bestow His care on them, He will allow the
tyrants to inflict them with severe torment and He will
encompass them all with poverty and meekness."
In another Mursal Hadith from Al-Hasan, the Prophet js was reported
to have said:
uí~IL \ ~. ~ tS/ . ~ I~)'L \ t~/ /1<1\ \ ~~ /. / -: \JI ~ Ól -: t~ \~I))
/ . ..Y"'"'~~.)~ ~y. )u- ~)í7 r.Y' ~ ~
~.&I r+:j pi ; ~I) ~)~~ ::;'~)'I \;}) r~J~)'1 l;1lZ)
/' /' /' /' \
.((·~/~i' ·i/·~~/t!cll~~
r J . ~)~ / /
"If people declare their knowledge (to show off), abandon
performing good deeds, love each other by words but hate each
other in heart, sever their ties of kinship and abandon enjoining
righteousness and forbidding evil, then Alláh will curse them
and bring deafness to their ears and blindness to their eyes."
Ibn Mas'ud L...y .1\ -?) narrated that the Prophet ~ said:

"Worst are they the people who do not enjoin righteousness and
forbid eviL Worst are they, the people who shun those who
enjoin righteousness and forbid evil. Worst are they the people
who do not establish justice. Worst are they the people with
whom the believer fears danger from them and has to hide his
Faith."
Fear Alláh, O Alláh's slaves. Those who are heedless should wake up
from their sleep and heedlessness. Mend the shortcoming you fell into
and your ignoring Alláh's command. Establish Alláh's Law in action,
statements and knowledge. Fulfill what you were commanded to do
and refrain from all that you were prohibited. Do not fear any blame
when you do this. Be sincere and purify your hearts. Beware ofthe evil
Enjoining Righteousness and Forbidding Evil 148

ways that direct to other than the good conduct 1 am advising you to
adhere by. Otherwise, you will succumb to the evil plots of Satan, his
whispers and deceit, and you will say, what you do not do. Fill the rest
ofyour life with seeking Alláhs forgiveness, repenting and going back
to Him. Feel sorrow and grief and refrain from your errors. Dedicate
your energy and vitality to obeying the King, the All-Knower of all
that exists, before a time comes when a terrible fate might befall you,
that will be beyond your ability to withstand. Surely, you will
remember and be rerninded of what 1 am now saying to you, and 1
relate all of my affairs to Alláh, and He has full knowledge of the
slaves:
~~ u::;..¡tJ-:6 lí Zr; ~ I'{¡; ~~t ~\: z>~í ~ DjÍ~ ~
8;. ~~ ~t J ~)ií j.:j;;;ut O ~~ ij~ L; ~.:2~ \;.26
-: V'" .>" ~ ~ ~t;- »> -t ., "l'."~íí 1:'f ~ ~ /1 -: > t·>"
l..l~ ~-' ~ ~_
• (.>.r-'
l..l ¡Jo'"~ -' O ~-'
l..l-""'t

~5~ír;¡Jí -I~J¡í ~::;.t ~~~ ~t] O

"And ifthe people ofthe towns had believed and had the Taqwá
(piety), certainly, We should have opened for them blessings
from the heaven and the earth, but they belied. So We took them
(with punishment) for what they used to earn. Did the people of
the towns then feel secure against the coming ofOur punishment
by night while they were asleep? Or, did the people ofthe towns
then feel secure against the coming of Our punishment in the
forenoon while they were playing? Did they then feel secure
against the Plan of Alláh? None feels secure from the Plan of
Alláh except the people who are the losers." (7:96-99)
May Alláh direct all of us to the blessings of the Glorious Qur' án and
benefit us all, with whatever is in it of the Áycu and Wise Dhikr. 1 say
this and ask Alláh the Great, and the Most Honored for forgiveness for
me, you and all Muslims for every sin. Invoke Him for forgiveness, for
He is the Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.'

1 Al-Khutab Al-Minbariyyah, Shaikh Muhammad bin Abdul-Latif AI­

Shaikh, p. 51
Warning Against Bid 'ah (Invovation in the Religion) 149

Warning Against Bid'ah

(Innovation in tbe Religion)
AII praises and thanks are due to Alláh, Who ordered us to follow the
revelation and avoid innovating in the religion. 1 bear witness that
there is no deity worthy of worship except Alláh Alone without
partners in the worship, just as He has no partners in creating the
creation. 1 also bear witness that Muhammad is Alláhs slave and
Messenger, whom He sent to be followed and obeyed. May Alláhs
peace and blessings be on Muhammad, his progeny and Companions
and all those who followed him with excellence.
o people! Fear Alláh and know that He has completed this religion for
us and commanded us to follow and hold to it. Alláh said:

"And verily, this is My straight path, so follow it, and follow not
(other) paths, for they will separate you away from His path."
(6:153)
Therefore, every act of worship that does not have a basis in the religion
and has no proof to support it, specifically in the Qur' án and Sunnah, is
indeed an act invented by the wicked and a part of the 'other paths' that
deviate away from Alláh's Straight Path. The Prophet ~ said:
.((~"J~8J'r~ / 'í~?IA;;'~/))
) ~ J" /' u-::' crt: o"
"Whoever performs a deed that does not conform to our matter
(religion), then it is rejected."
In another narration, the Prophet ~ said:
. ((~) ~ J~ ~ l; \:u. 8;r J ::.,b-t :;))
"Whoever invents in our matter (religion) what is not a part of it,
then it (the innovation) is rejected."
O Alláhs slaves! Know that Bidah (innovation in the religion)
Warning Against Bid 'ah (Invovation in the Religion) 150

destroys the true religion and takes the place of the Sunnah. Imam
Ahmad narrated that the Prophet :i said:
.((li1"~ ~\ ~ I·+:~~.&I U '11 ~~ r~ E~' t;)
"Whenever people invent a Bid 'ah, AIHlh removes fram them a
Sunnah in its place."
There are many evil consequences for inventing a Bid'ah, such as
replacing the Sunnah as we stated. For every time a Bid 'ah is invented,
it replaces a Sunnah, until the religion fades away completely. This is
why we find the innovators dedicating more effort to their Bid'ah than
they dedicate their effort to the Sunnah, since the devil makes the path
of Bid 'ah seem appealing in their eyes and hearts.
Furthermore, the innovator invents Bid'ah because he thinks that the
religion is incomplete and thus seeks to complete it with his
innovation! Otherwise, if he thought that the religion was complete,
why would he invent any Bid'ah at all? AIso, the innovators in the
religion shy away from the Sunnah and do not feel the strength to
practice it, even though they are active in practicing the Bid'ah. They
might spend their wealth and energy and waste their time resurrecting
all types of Bid 'ah. Moreover, innovating in the religion resurrects the
practices of Jahiliyyah (the pre-Islamic era of ignorance) in people's
lives and surely directs to division and disputes. Each group feels that
what they have is better than what the others have, just as Alláh
described them.
~0;"j,;;:J
... \ ,:,... t:;y~J"
...r/"­
"Each group rejoicing in what is with it (as its beliefs)." (23:53)

"And follow not (other) paths, for they will separate you away
from His path." (6:153)
The Sunnah, in contrast, unites people, gathers their hearts and makes
them brethren who love each other, follow one path and embrace one
Warning Against Bid 'ah (Invovation in the Religion) 151

religion.
ÁI'-~~~1"t:.....;..&í IP-:" ~ -:;-°í" }..
í
,,\~~.J _"',, ~:-~~ y

"And hold fast, all of you together, to the Rope of Alláh (i.e.,
this Qur'án), and be not divided among yourselves." (3: 103)
Moreover, among the evil consequences of Bid 'ah is that it directs to
denying the truth, especially when the innovator is called to it. When
called to the truth, he would insist on the Bid'ah and even defend it!
Further, Bid'ah spoils the correct religion, just as the devils among
mankind and jinn wish and hope for, especially the disbelievers and
hypocrites. Enemies of Islam try their best to corrupt it using all means
at their disposal, especially and foremost the weapon of Bid'ah and
superstitious beliefs. They do this in order to distort the image ofIslam
and cover the true essence of the correct religion. By doing so, those
who do not have knowledge ofthe true essence ofIslam will think that
it is a collection of superstitious, empty practices and thus shy away
from embracing it. Adding to this evil, is the fact that those who
propagate Bid'ah earn material benefits or acquire fame because of
their Bid 'ah. This is how they satisfy their lusts and desires and co1lect
the enormous wealth that is paid for these Bid'ah. Sometimes, illegal
sexual activities occur in the process of practicing Bid 'ah, as we1l as,
shameless mingling between men and women.
There is no doubt that various media outlets, such as the newspapers,
radio, TV, and so forth, playa primary role in spreading all types of
Bid 'ah and transmitting them to various parts of the world. Those who
read, hear of or watch such evil broadcasts think that these Bid'át are a
part of Islam. Moreover, we should not forget the role that wicked
scholars play in resurrecting Bid 'ah, propagating thern and portraying
them in the shape of legal Islamic practices. Consequently, a1l
Muslims, especia1ly scholars and those who deliver Jumu 'ah speeches,
are required to warn people against the evils of Bid 'ah.
O Alláh ' s slaves! Celebrating the Prophet' s birthday, the night of Isrá '
and other 'religious' celebrations are also a type of invented Bid'ah in
the religion. The Messenger of Alláh ~, his Companions and the best
generations of Islam did not celebrate these occasions--even though
Warning Against Bid 'ah (Innovation in the Religion) 152

they knew about them! Rather, these celebrations were invented in the
latter, less righteous generations as an act of imitating the Christians in
contradiction to the Prophet's guidance. This is exactly what the
Prophet js foretold would happen, when he said:
<';, ~ 1);.; :,J ~ ~Jll~ ~Jll\ j1;. ~ ~l5 ¿;. :;:.. :; ::'j))
~ ~-:1.:':<;
.((.~...u

"You will follow the practices of those who were before you
(Jews and Christians), step by step, that even if they enter a
lizard's den, you will enter it after them!"
It is amazing to witness the energy and dedication of those who
resurrect the Bid'ah of celebrating the night of Isrá' and Mi 'raj (when
the Prophet ~ was transferred from Makkah to Jerusalem and then to
heaven, then back to Makah, ovemight). Yet, they do not show much
dedication to the five compulsory daily prayers during that very night,
for they do not attend it in Jama 'ah (congregation), ifthey pray that is!
The devil beautifies this Bid'ah in their eyes and makes the Sunnah
hateful to them. It is therefore not strange to realize that the innovators
are not religious in general, since the religion that they know is the one
that they invented for themselves.
O Alláh's slaves! The Prophet ~ wamed against the Bid'ah and used
to say these words in his Khutbah:
~'" ~ ~ ~ ~ ',,:'i¡ ~ ':' .tI 08 ...:-.,.b..ll ,,': ~~:1.;.,; ~i))
r.J ~'" • í.? í.?~ y.;>.J, ." -, y.;>; .
.,v" ~~~, t
. ((;¡j')l,¿, ~1~J5j • L¡;~~ !';''il
"Amma Ba 'du (Then)! The best speech is Alláh's Book, the best
guidance is that sent with Muhammad ~, the worst matters are
matters of innovation, and every Bid 'ah is a heresy."
The Prophet's Companions were firm in their rejection of all types of
Bid 'ah and wamed stemly against them. For instance, Ibn Mas'ud <.?J
es- 1\ was told that Amr bin 'Utbah and his friends had built amosque

on the outskirts of Kufah (in Iraq). Therefore, Ibn Mas'ud es- 1\ <.?J
commanded that it be tom down. Then he (Ibn Mas'ud ...,...11 <'?J) was
told that a group of people were gathering in a comer in the mosque at
Warning Against Bid 'ah (Innovation in the Religion) 153

Kufah around Amr bin 'Utbah and were praising Alláh together and
mentioning His Oneness.' Ibn Mas'ud 1\ ~) wore a veil over his
"CS­

face and went to that group, sat with them and made sure they were
doing what he was told they did. He then unveiled his face and said, "1
am Abu Abdur-Rahman (and he was the commander of Kufah during
that time)." He then said, "You either have acquired more know1edge
than the Companions of Muhammad ~, or have invented a Bid'ah in
injustice and transgression." Amr bin 'Utbah replied, "We seek
forgiveness from Alláh," thrice. Aman from Bani Tamim said, "By
Alláh! We neither collected better know1edge than the Companions of
Muhammad ~, nor did we invent a Bid 'ah in transgression. Rather, we
are a people who were remembering Alláh." Ibn Mas'ud 11 ~) "CS­

replied, "Rather (you have invented a Bid 'ah). By He in Whose Hand

is Ibn Mas'ud's life! If you follow the practices of the people
(Muhammad ~ and his Companions), you will indeed achieve a great
achievement. Otherwise, ifyou deviate to the right and left, you will be
led astray in a tremendous way."
O Alláh! Show us the truth as such and grant us the favor of following
it, and expose to us evil as such and grant us the favor of avoiding it.
~ d>~~~t~j~jJ ~J~r~ ~~~~í5Jd.J% LJlji ~
-: "?~":;
"" lJ';t"""
"\ .~' .q~í0'i·t5
J ,.LJ'~..,..."~\r
• '.J" J ' '-' ~íi" \~ l~
~ ¡J O
"Say (O Muharnmad ~): 'If you love Alláh, then follow me, Alláh
willlove you and forgive you your sins. And Alláh is Oft-Forgiving,
Most Merciful.' Say: 'Obey Alláh and the Messenger.' But if they
turn away, then Alláh does not like the disbelievers."(3:31 ,32)2

They collected small rocks and one of them would say, "Praise Alláh a
hundred times," and they would do that, and so forth.
Al-Khutab Al-Minbariyyah, by Shaikh Salih AI-Foazan, vol. 1, p. 171
Necessity ofObeying lhe Messenger ~& Adhering lo lhe Qur'an 154

Necessity of Obeying the Messenger ii

and Adhering to the Qur'an
AH thanks and praises are due to Alláh, Who grants refuge, but none
grants refuge from Hirn. Re Alone govems all affairs and none is like
or similar to Hirn, I thank and praise Him, just as a slave who admits
his slavery and submissiveness would praise his Lord. I bear witness
that none has the right to be worshipped exeept Alláh Alone without
partners, just as a slave would testi:fy while admitting to Alláh's
Oneness and Riehness. I bear witness that Muhammad is Alláhs slave
and Messenger whom Re sent with guidanee and the religion of truth
to prevail aboye all other religions. Certainly, the Prophet ~ eonveyed
the Message and delivered what he was entrusted with until he fulfilled
all of what he was eommanded to fulfill. O Alláh! Grant Your best
blessings and merey on our Prophet Muhammad, Your slave and
Messenger, and on his Companions and family members who adhered
by his guidanee until they died.
O Muslims! Fear Alláh as Re should be feared and hold on to Islam by
its firm handholds. Thank and praise your Lord Who bestowed on you
this honorable, eompassionate, mereiful Messenger.

Á. ~
-.¡:~
"Indeed, Alláh conferred a great favour on the believers when
Re sent among them a Messenger (Muhammad ~) from among
themselves, reciting unto them His Verses (the Qur'án), and
puri:fying them (from sins by their fol1owing him), and
instructing them (in) the Book (the Qur'án) and Al-Hikmah,
while before that they had been in manifest error." (3: 164)
In this Áyah, Alláh states that He has granted a tremendous favor on
the believers when Re sent to them a Messenger from among
themselves, revealed to him a clear Book and ordered them to follow
Necessity ofObeying (he Messenger iff& Adhering (o (he Qur'án 155

him and obey his Sunnah.

1.~\' »:« Jo-/ ....("';"'~I// Jo ~ ~.-: j ;'-;;I'\;'t';-;\;1'// ~
"'\ ~19 ~ ~ \,,6.J~.>.-..-.9 iy"J' ~ .. Lo.J:,,"

"And whatsoever the Messenger (Muhammad ~) gives you,

take it; and whatsoever he forbids you, abstain (from it)." (59:7)

Also, the Prophet ~ said:

«cllt,;. ~\ I-::~;' ./ '1 t,;. 1-:~<-I.¡J°í ~\ /,.;·/i\~. ~~/:))
í;.. ~
/ ~ ~ t!:.J} !'-J(r' "/ .. / / /'\ ..r- .r
o

"1 have left you on the white (clear) path, its night is as bright as
its day. None except the destroyed one will deviate away from it."
He was reported to have said, "1 have left with you what, if you adhere
by, you will never be led astray: the Book of Alláh. In it, there is the
news of those who were before you and the news of those who will
come after you. It is Alláh's Thick Rope, the wonders of which never
cease to come, nor does it become old, no matter how repeatedly it is
recited. He who uses it in his speech will have said the truth, he who
adheres by it will attain guidance, he who judges by it will be just and
he who holds to it will be directed to the Straight Path."l
O Alláhs slaves! Know, may Alláh grant you His Merey, that obeying
the Messenger ~ is an obligation on every Muslim, while contradicting
him might cause one's Islam to vanish. The Messenger of Alláh ~ was
reported to have said:

. «~ ~ t.:¿ 0~\;' 0~ J;;. rS~l ~~ '1))

"One of you will not attain Faith until his desire conforms to
what I was sent with.,,2

1 Editor's Note: This is taken from a lengthy Hadith reported by At-Tirmidhi

in his Sunan, chapter: The Virtues of the Noble Qur'án, 2908. However, this
narration is not authentic (Da 'eej).
2 Editor's Note: This Hadith has been graded unauthentic (Da 'eej) by Shaikh

Muharnmad Nasir ud-Deen Al-Albaaní, Shaikh Muqbil bin Haadi Al-Waadi'I,

'Ali Al-Halabi and Al-Hafiz Ibn Rajab AI-Hanbali, of our Sala!
Necessity of Obeying lhe Messenger !f!i & Adhering lo lhe Qur 'án 156

~_.JV>
uo~
_~ ~15_->-.~1··;~.,
uo~
~
V J
." ~ 1.:ili I..f';.t;;..1
~
~ ~ ~ .t;;..1.:ili .f~ t;;..1 '. ~))
- - rJ" J I..f';- - ~ - rJ"
. ((~t:¡j\ ~,~ i;j¡ .
~ .~ iY.~, r./;
"Whoever resurrects my Sunnah, will have resurrected me, and
whoever resurrects me will have loved me, and whoever loves
me will be with me in Paradise on the Day of Resurrection.'"
The Sunnah that we refer to here is that practiced and conveyed to us
by the righteous geoerations ofIslam, such as the Prophet's generation,
the Four Rightly Guided Caliphs, the next and third generations. After
them, the Ummah divided. Therefore, whatever carne afterwards that
defies the way and method ofthe Salafis indeed a type of Bid 'ah and,
as such, a heresy.
O Alláhs slaves! Thank and praise Alláh for the great favor and
tremendous bounty He has endowed His believing slaves with, by
sending this honorable Prophet ~ with whom He has completed the
religion. Surely, the Qur'án and Sunnah complete the religion for the
Muslim Ummah, provide them with knowledge in the major and minor
aspects of the religion and brings guidance and correctness to all
mankind. What a grace and what a good favor that can only be
appreciated by the thankful believers.
~r~
I ; .~ .-' r: ~ -
d ~ .; :1::-,. ~9'J :.. ~./o/ .::'"~{,-.i]~
.r.l¡!'\ ,. ~ 'Y"'.J l~' T
Á~ ~ ~ ,J.~""-; ..
"'\~J-'J':)~~ :-f'
~:'~ :-'ít
--o
"Verily, there has come unto you a Messenger (Muhammad ~)
from amongst yourselves (i.e. whom you know well). It grieves
him that you should receive any injury or difficulty. He
(Muhammad ~) is anxious over you (to be rightly guided, to
repent to Alláh, and beg Him to pardon and forgive your sins in
order that you may enter Paradise and be saved from the
punishment of the Hell-fire); for the believers (he ~ is) full of
pity, kind, and merciful." (9: 128)

1 Editor's Note: This Hadith was graded weak (Da 'eef¡ by Shaikh Al­

Albaani in Silsilah Ad-Da 'eefah, and Da 'eef ul-Jami?

Necessity ofObeying the Messenger:#& Adhering to the Qur'an 157

Indeed, the Praphet ~ was kind and easy going with people, accepted
invitations from them, helped those who sought him for help, was kind
with those who asked him anything and never retumed any request
away empty handed. He used to accept the good deeds from those who
did good and forget and forgive those who did wrong, His tremendous
and exalted standard of character cannot be duly explained here, so
may Alláhs peace and blessings be on Him. The Praphet ~ has
directed us all to what benefits us, when he said:
dj ~8J ,;4 pI ~~1 :¿:; ~i; ~í~ ~
'" , j# ,
'Í ~5ú»
, , ;;; • ~ ro •
~; .k..,;...;·'--·~;)lL~ _\"I¡~~
0-" "; t+'Y t ~; . -?.\_.& ";~' ~l;
. fJJ"J ~\"I\
~

. ((¡";~\JJ
"Three qualities will not cause the heart of a Muslim to be
deceived: having sincerity with Alláh in actions, being sincere
and advising to Muslim Leaders and adhering by their Jama 'ah
(Le., Jama 'atul Muslimin) for their supplication benefits all
those who are with them."
Therefore, those who perform good deeds with sincerity to Alláh, are
honest with Alláh's slaves, hold to the Jama 'ah by avoiding division
and adhering by unity, and whose hearts are purified and cleansed,
then each one of them becomes a Wali (a loyal friend) of Alláh,
Contradicting these good qualities will fill one's heart with every type
of evil and wickedness.
°
Therefore, Muharnmad's Nation! Fear Alláh, follow in the footsteps of
your Prophet ~, obey the orders of your Lord, remove all types of division
and hatred fram amongst yourselves and never be deceived by this life
and its delights. 0, Alláh's slaves! Alláh has bestowed on us many great
favors that can only be counted and appreciated fully by Him, and none
can duly thank Alláh for them: peace and tranquility, health, wealth and
many other bounties and favors frorn the Most Beneficent.
¡,. /
,i"" //
~"\'..c.l
//~
l..k¡)\ ~0l-'J.
.,#// •. ---- .í~
'Í/~;';/ 'í·~~·/
'J"j~~ '~j"
-,. ~!-{- !; -... t­

"If you give thanks (by accepting Faith and worshipping none
but Alláh), I will give you more (of My Blessings); but ifyou
Necessity ofObeying the Messenger & Adhering to the Qur'an 158

are thankless (i.e., disbelievers), verily, My punishment IS

indeed severe." (14:7)
Repent to Alláh, all of you, O believers, so that you might attain
success. Know, O Alláh's slaves, that each one of us shall meet his
actions and will not leave this Jife until, and unless, he sees the
goodness or evilness of what he has done. Verily, the actions are
connected to the goodness or evil of the last among them (just befare
death), while the day and the night are the vessels in which one spends
this life. Therefore, travel well in these two vessels to the Last Life and
beware of delaying and having prolonged hope.
Surely, death comes all of a sudden, and this is why non e of you
should ever be deceived by Alláhs patience with him or her. The Fire
and Paradise are closer to one of you than the top of his own slippers.
Know that your Prophet ~ said to 'Áishah, lp 11 ..?h that whenever
Alláh knows of a slave's sorrow in his heart for a sin, He forgives him
for it, even before he seeks His forgiveness for it.
Alliih said:
H:l~\ ~"~~ j;G;' ~ ~ ,,~~~ J~ ¡f..::\: ~J' G.h~í C~"
¿,( .;. . .I¡.;'''' /,).!!......~,./ ".A/
"(0~·:V~\\ ~~ji~\~~~t
"Only those are the believers who have believed in Alláh and
His Messenger, and afterward doubt not but strive with their
wealth and their lives for the Cause of Alláh, Those! They are
the truthful." (49: 15)
May Alláh direct all of us, and yo u, to the blessings of the Glorious
Qur'án and benefit us and you in whatever it contains of the Áyat and
Wise Dhikr. J say this and ask Alláh the Great, Most Honored for
forgiveness for me, you and all Muslims for every sin, so invoke Him
1
for forgiveness, for He is Oft- Forgiving, Most Merciful.

t Al-Khutab AI-Minbariyyah, by Shaikh Ibrahim AI-Yusuf, p. 197

Legal Manners 01 Visiting Graves 159

Legal Manners of Visiting Graves

All praises and thanks are due to Alláh, the All-Rich, Worthy of all
praise. He starts the creation and resurrects them. He is the Owner of
the Glorious Throne, Who does what He wills, Whose knowledge
encompasses all things and He is the Witness over all things. I thank,
praise and invoke Him for more of His bounties and favors. I bear
witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except Alláh Alone,
without partners, rivals or equals. I bear witness that our Prophet
Muhammad ~ is His slave, Messenger and intimate friend, and the
best caller to Imán and Tauhid. May Alláh's peace and blessings be on
Muhammad, his progeny, Companions and all those who followed
them with excellence until the Day of Judgment.
Alláh the Exalted and Most Honored said:
s» 1: »~-: '~~\""~~H .tí· ·...... '~í'~. :!.. , 1:r" ~'\"""-'
"t'~.J.../P'oUl!J.P":'YJ~..&!J oUl ~~,,-¡¡¡ I.J~~
·-!.r I.J¿Ji.~ "~
"Say (O Muhammad ~ to mankind): "Ifyou (really) love Alláh,
then follow me (i.e., accept Islámic Monotheism, follow the
Qurán and the Sunnah) , Alláh will love you and forgive you
your sins. And Alláh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful." (3:31)
Also, Abdullah bin Mas'ud =- 1\ ..?) narrated that the Messenger of
Alláh ~ said:
4 ~ill
_ '-!':.- Jj;;~
.r I-:"~
~~
4 "~'I\ \.JJ.JjJ
J.r,""
' ~-: 4
" ¡; j~j
J;AJI ;~';
¿';' -:;.~)) , "
; ; ;

- ~ /"
. «¡;:r: ':JI ::,sXJ
/

"1 had disallowed you from visiting graves. Now, visit graves,
for they discourage you from (excessively) indulging in this life
and remind ofthe Hereafter."
Dear Muslims! The Messenger of Alláh ~ had disallowed men and
women from visiting graves in the beginning of Islam, because they
were not far away from the time of Shirk, during which they used to
revere graves and the dead buried in them. During the time of
Jahiliyyah, the Arabs used to revere stones, trees, the graves of
Legal Manners 01 Visiting Graves 160

Prophets and righteous people, and so forth. Those who were new to
Islam and not far from the time of Shirk with all its evil practices that
resided in their hearts and that they were raised performing, feared that
a residue of the practices of Jahiliyyah might have remained in their
hearts. It was proper then that enough time was given so that Imán and
Tauhid became firmly established in their hearts and the time and
practices of Shirk faded away gradually. To support this, we should
state that sorne new Muslims, who were not far from the time of Shirk,
requested the Prophet :i to appoint a tree for them to revere and hang
their weapons on for blessings, just because they saw sorne Mushrik do
so. They thought that this practice was allowed in Islam and that it
would benefit them and bring them closer to Alláh, Truth and
falsehood were confused for them because practices of Jahiliyyah were
still fresh in their minds.
The Messenger ~ was most eager to dissipate the remains of Shirk, rid
the hearts of its practices and close all doors that lead to it. He forbade
visiting graves in the beginning of Islam for fear of Fitnah for new
Muslims (subjecting them to trials in religion and life) and to draw
them away from Shirk and its practices. When Islam became
prominent and Tauhid firmly resided in their hearts, he allowed
visiting graves because there are various benefits from visiting them.
For instan ce, among the wisdom of visiting graves, is that the Prophet
~ said:

,~iJl J; ~; 45~ 'J~I IJ~J) 'J~\ ~J~j Y ~ /- :5))

"1 had disallowed you from visiting graves. Now, visit graves,
for they discourage you from (excessively) indulging in this life
and remind of the Hereafter."
Therefore, visiting graves reminds one of death and the Hereafter,
belittles the significance of this life and entails invoking Alláh for
forgiveness and merey for the dead. The Messenger ~ used to visit
graves, invoke Alláh for the benefit of dead Mus1ims and greet them
with the Salam (greeting of piece). He wou1d cry and causing those
Legal Manners of Visiting Graves 161

around him to cry. He also taught us how we should visit the graves of
our Muslim brethren and what to say when we do. For instance, he
used to recite this Du 'á' when he visited graves:
'-<.'4Íl\~G¿\GI/ ,~\dtl/ ~. 'l/i¡~ LJ.JI /1~t'_<'í~<¡"'1))
'-;' ~ u ~ J~.r-' ~! - o: ,-=-- i.J'\-J
.(( ~ WI r-S:J J Lí /4Íl \ YL.:.:; ,0~~
"Peace be upon you, O believing and Muslim residents of these
graves., We, Alláh willing, will soon follow you. We ask Alláh
for the well-being of us and you."
The Prophet ~ did not travel for the purpose of visiting graves, nor did
he allow us to do so. Instead, he disallowed this practice when he said:

, \~ l?~J 'rl:;.J¡ ~\ :~G ~~ J1 -11 JG-:J\ ~ ~))

/ '1' '
.((~':1\~\J
"Travelling is only allowed for three Mosques: Al-Masjid Al­
Haram (at Makkah), this Mosque of mine (in Al-Madinah) and
Al-Masjod Al-Aqsa (in Jerusalem)."
Hence, those who wish to visit the Prophet's mosque in Al-Madinah
should intend to visit the mosque and not the grave, so that this act is
acceptable with Alláh and Islamically legislated. When one visits the
Prophet's mosque, he could visit the Prophet's grave, greet him with
the Salam and observe respect, quiet and good manners during this
visit. He should then greet his two Companions in this life and the
Hereafter: Abu Bakr As-Siddiq and 'Umar Al-Faruq, ~ 11\ <.?.;. One
should then depart from the Prophet's gravesite.
There are no preferred times, days or months to visit graves or any of
the three Mosques. Rather, Muslims are allowed to visit them any time
they wish, for this is the guidance ofthe Messenger of Alláh ~ and this
is the Sunnah he taught uso Yet, ignorance and abandoning the Sunnah
have become so rampant, that many people fall into misguidance
regarding visiting graves of righteous people. They turn visiting graves
into sessions of invoking the dead and seeking their help! They do not
distinguish between what the Prophet ~ allowed for his Ummah and
Legal Manners oi Visiting Graves 162

what he disallowed for them. But, Alláh has ordained on us to obey

His Prophet ~ and follow his Sunnah. The Prophet ~ showed us, in
statement and practice, the manners of visiting graves and explained
the wisdom behind legislating it. Therefore, let our visiting graves be
what it should be: a reminder and good advice for uso Let us invoke
Alláh for forgiveness and merey for our deceased Muslim brothers and
sisters, for surely, the grave is where they will be needing Du 'á' to
Alláh from us, for their benefit. In the grave, one's chances to collect
more good deeds will come to an abrupt end, and they will be in dire
need for the Du 'á' of their living brethren to Alláh to grant them His
Pardon and Merey,
As for women, they are not allowed to visit graves or follow funeral
processions. The Prophet ~ emphasized this ruling when he cursed
those women, whose habit was to visit graves,
~,. W J.>.L::.JI
. .:C.r-'.J ~
4;í~ ~ 1;2.k.J!
"¡J. / /
,~~il ~ ::í»)
úl/·e.&\ .r­
Y:""' / .1- J
"May Alláh curse those (women) who visit graves and those
who build Mosques and erect lamps (lights) around them."
The Prophet ~ disallowed women from visiting graves because of their
emotional weakness and impatience. He did this fearing Fitnah (trials
in religion) for them and because they panic easily. In these respects,
they are surely weaker than meno The Prophet ~ said to sorne women
whom he saw going to visit graves:
; ; úIJ.J~~ ~ JI)) : .r.~1
~ ", //
)1 ~~11 ~íJ ~~ ~ Jtj
" -' "o/ ~ ~", -'o¡:.

. (¡/<~ 11 ~~ YJ <?JI ~
/ "
0-Nk-9
/
,~IJy::--L:.
"Go back, eaming a sin rather than a reward, for verily, you
cause Fitnah to the living and bother the dead."
It was also reported that he (~) said to his daughter Fatimah 4.:>- .1\ c?):

«~\ I~~ r'_í - ~::;~'1I

. ~ . 1-cili\ ~
'f.... / .Y ~\»)
\" d'í / t
"If you reached with them the graveyard, you would not enter
Paradise."
Legal Manners 01 Visiting Graves 163

Therefore, fear Alláh, O Alláh's slaves, follow the guidanee of His

Messenger :1 and obey Him and His Messenger so that you eam His
Merey. May Alláh direet us all, and you, to the blessings of the
Glorious Qur' án and benefit us all, and you, in whatever is in it of the
Áyat and Wise Dhikr. 1 say this and ask Alláh the Great, the Most
Honored for forgiveness for me, you and all Muslims for every sin, so
invoke Him for forgiveness, for He is the Most Forgiving, the Most
Merciful.'

Ahadith Al-Minbar, by Shaikh Abdul-Aziz bin Abdullah bin Hasan Al­

Shaikh, p. 161
Celebrating the Prophet's Birthday is a Despicable ... 164

Celebrating the Prophet's Birthday is a

Despicable Bid'ah (Innovation in the Religion)

All praises and thanks are due to Alláh, Who granted His Favor to the
believers by sending to them a Messenger from among them, reciting
to them His Áyat, purifying them and teaching them the Book and Al­
Hikmah (his Sunnahs, even though they were in manifest error
beforehand. 1 bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship
except Alláh Alone, without partners in the worship, just as He has no
partners in His creation and Kingship. Alláh is Free from all that they
ascribe to Him of partners and Shirk. 1 bear witness that Muhammad ~
is Alláhs slave and Messenger, who was entrusted to deliver His
revelation, and he is the best of Alláh's creation. He was sent with the
right religion as a merey to all mankind, as a leader for the righteous
and as a proof against mankind and the jinn. May Alláhs peace and
blessings be on Muhammad, his progeny, his Companions and all
those who followed them with excellence until the Day of
Resurrection.
Dear Muslims! Fear Alláh and know that the best of His bounties on
you and the people of the earth is that He sent to them Muhammad ~
as the Last and Final Prophet and Messenger, after a prolonged time in
which He did not send a Prophet. Alláh guided mankind by His
sending Muhammad ~ with the straight path and the clearest way and
required them to follow and obey him. The Prophet ~ was the fruit of
the supplication that Prophet Ibrahim r')l.JI ~ invoked Alláh with,
when he said:
~í', ' .~í
J . , .:;~~1::'
,.J ,;l-(,\~ .g-.q
¡t; i 1:-: ~ ~..J
, _ 1; ,"....,...-: )o'"
~
• ~í' C' k
.J ...J T

~~~)í ¿tili\ 4. x:-"

"" ..,. .~~J
"Our Lord! Send amongst them a Messenger of their own, who
shall recite unto them Your Verses and instruct them in the
Book (this Qur'án) and Al-Hikmah (full knowledge of the
Islámic laws and jurisprudence or wisdom or Prophethood), and
Celebrating the Prophet's Birthday is a Despicable ... 165

purify them. Verily, You are the All-Mighty, the All-Wise."

(2: 129)
Muhammad ~ was also the glad tidings that Jesus, son of Mary,
delivered:
<>~(.. Jt J Jo; {~; ;;.c,~;'tí -: ~:C~:: l:.Í ~ ~ -:.~ Jo; ~>\ -¡ -{.\ .r: ).,
7.í¡.&í JJoIY.J ,"?V:!l-.r.~ r
; . '-'; ;- jYJ,..F;C;~ ;:!)j"' ~ - '-'-~ / ~~. -
.. ;

~:c;.¡;¿;í
"O Children of Israel! I am the Messenger of Alláh unto you,
confirming the Taurát [(Torah) which carne] before me, and
giving glad tidings of a Messenger to come after me, whose
name shall be Ahmad." (61:6)
And when the Prophet's mother was pregnant with him, she saw a
vision in which a light started out of her and lighted the palaces of
. 1
Syna.
These three qualities carne true in the Messenger of Alláh ~, for he
was the fruit of Prophet Ibrahim' s supplication, the glad tidings that
Jesus foretold and delivered and the true explanation of his mother's
visiono Alláh has made Muhammad ~ the light that enlightened the
entire earth, after it had been engulfed with darkness, and a guide for
mankind, after they fell prey to utter confusion. He is the great bounty
and the tremendous gift that Alláh has granted to His creation. He was
boro in the sacred city of Makkah on the Year of the Elephant -570
CE- in the lunar month of Rabi' Al-Awwal. It was the year that the
king of Abyssinia (Abrahah) attacked Makkah with his army (and
several elephants) seeking to demolish the Ka'bah. Alláh repelled this
attack and sent down a great punishment on Abrahah and his army, just
as He mentioned in His Glorious Book (chapter 105). Alláh protected
the Sacred House in Makkah in preparation for sending Muhammad ~.

1 Editors Note: Differing statements have been issued by Hadith scholars

conceming the authenticity of this narration. It is recorded in Ibn Sa'd's
Tabaqat, Ahmad's Musnad and the Sunan of Ad-Darmi, Yet its veracity is
questionable.
Celebrating the Prophet's Birthday is a Despicable Bid 'ah 166

The Prophet ~ was reared to have the best types of conduct and
behavior. Later on, when he reached forty years of age, Alláh sent him
His Messages. The Prophet ~ indeed conveyed the Message, fulfilled
the trust, gave sincere advice to the Ummah and performed true Jihád
in Alláhs Cause, until Alláh sent down this Áyah to him:

~ ~(. . . ""'L
I:,.,~ ...
r--~
íJ~~".Jo
,¡ \ "" "• •~"".Jo~!J.
~.J-,.::......,j.
.......
·":"i"A.Jo". ~ ~~" ..:..w
~;-;;.. ..
~ i"?"¡"··J
... ~-"I\ ~
\~

"This day, 1 have perfected your religion for you, completed My

Favor upon yo u, and have chosen for you Islam as your
religion." (5:3)
AIso, the Prophet ~ said:
. (( ..\ 'ó"l\ ~I í:::.· ~~'::I)
, -. " c...r- ~ .r

"1 have left you on the clear path ... "

The Prophet ~ brought back the purity and magnificence of the easy
Hanifiyyah (to worship none except Alláh), the religion of Prophet
Ibrahim r)LJI ~. He cleansed Al-Hanifiyyah from all practices of
Jahiliyyah, and its deviant practices, that were added to it. Alláh
gathered this Ummah around him after it was utterly divided, and when
he finished his mission, Alláh joined him with the utmost company (in
heaven).
O Alláh ' s slaves! We are req uired to appreciate Alláh for this
tremendous bounty by striving hard to protect and preserve it. This can
only be performed by obeying the Messenger of Alláh and imitating
His Sunnah, while adhering to what he has commanded and refraining
from what he has forbidden. We are required to love Muhammad ~
more than we love our own selves, children, fathers and mothers.
Indeed, all that is good and righteous is earned through obeying the
Prophet ~ and imitating him. Alláh said:

~~í lLlJ.ili J;..jí ~ Jo ~

"He who obeys the Messenger (Muhammad ~), has indeed
obeyed Allah." (4:80)
.• .Jo ':í::
~~
•~/~~
. . ~~
..
.'Y~
•
~.J
'':J~...Jo
" •
'. 4.Il\, .
. ,. .~
" :'\" ~ .JoJZ.Jo
OlÍ 4.Il'
'"'~
' . .~ • I .~l•
1
'"'.v­ ~
Celebrating the Prophet's Birthday is a Despicable ... 167

"Say (O Muharnmad ~ to mankind): "Ifyou (really) love Alláh,

then follow me (Le., accept Islárnic Monotheism, follow the
Qur'án and the Sunnah), Alláh will love you and forgive you
your sins." (3:31)
And:

"'f!.-::~\ /'. .r ~
"'\~ ~4.S~

"But if they answer you not, then know that they only follow
their own lusts. And who is more astray than one who follows
his own lusts, without guidance from Alláh?" (28:50)
Loving the Prophet i'5 requires obeying him, fol1owing in his footsteps
and avoiding what he has forbidden. Therefore, every act of worship
must and should conform to the guidance that this Messenger ;i has
legislated. Moreover, every act ofworship that does not conform to the
Prophet's legislation is a rejected Bid'ah, just as the Prophet ~ said:
«~//~~ ~~'L~
J -* f /-
/ 'í~ if:-
-.r::'
/L;' ~/))
(J"

"Whoever performs an act that does not conform to our matter

(religion) then it is rejected."
And:
~
...o"" "" ""
(¡J')l,,:, ~...l>
.
"" <1
~
J5 0\j~!Y'~ ~I u~~/
:::.Jo::: ""
/
""""
~l:W»
.J 1" -b.J
.Jo

"Beware of matters of innovation, for every Bid'ah is a heresy."

O Alláh's slaves! There are numerous Bid'ah that the ignorant and
deviant persons have invented, One ofthese Bid'ah is repeated every
year, in the lunar month of Rabi' AI-Awwal, when the Prophet's
birthday is celebrated. We should assert that celebrating Al-Maulid, or
the Prophet's birthday, is an evil Bid'ah that Alláh neither allowed nor
legislated; those who invented it did so following their whims and
desires. It is a Bid'ah because the Prophet ;i did not practice it in his
Sunnah, nor did the Companions celebrate it, even though they are the
best generation of this Muslim Ummah who sought all that is good and
Celebrating the Prophet's Birthday is a Despicable Bid 'ah 168

beneficia!. To the contrary, the Bid 'ah of Al-Maulid was started in the
sixth century after the Hijrah to imitate the Christians who used to
celebrate Jesus' c1aimed birthday. The Prophet sternly prohibited us*
from imitating the Christians in specific, when he said:
.... .... a -;.... a J ,­

. ((~~ :;1 ($~WI ,?:,hl W <-f.-/Ja:; ':1))

"Do not unduly praise me like the Christians unduly praised

Jesus."
In addition to the Maulid being a Bid 'ah, there are many evil practices
that occur during these celebration, such as invoking the Prophet for *
help, for various needs and to relieve hardships and calamities. Many
poems that contain Shirk are being recited during AI-Maulid, as well as
objectionable mingling between men and women, which lures them
into committing illegal sexual activities.
Another aspect of celebrating Al-Maulid is the extravagance in
spending on its activities, paid by some people who might not pay the
due Zakát on their wealth, even though paying the Zakát is a pillar of
Islam. It is amazing that those who celebrate the Maulid do not
practice the Sunnah ofthe Prophet *,
nor refer to his law for judgment.
They might not even pray, even though praying is the biggest practical
pillar ofIslam.
O Alláh's slaves! Alláh did not mention the Prophet's birthday in the
Qurán, but mentioned sending him as a Prophet js, when He said:
"'- .q ~--1 >...... ,-;::;,~\
"\~ ~ ,,"".J~
-:,. ;>ií . .1::~í7 . . ~ ~
. ~~...,...... es: V" 7'
"Indeed, Alláh conferred a great favour on the believers when
He sent among them a Messenger (Muhammad ~) from among
themselves." (3:164)
And:

"">~-'1>'-:"L';Yí ·¿:;l.dí'>
"\~ '.J""....>.r-.t, ~
~
. , y. 7'
"He it is Who sent among the unlettered ones a Messenger
(Muhammad js) from among themselves." (62:2)
Celebrating the Prophet's Birthday is a Despicable ... 169

This is because through Muhammad's Prophethood, Alláhs favor

became apparent and complete. Ever since then, from the time
Muhammad :i was sent until he died, every minute of his life was a
blessing for mankind. After his Prophethood started, the Prophet's
entire life was spent in Jihád, worshipping Alláh and benefiting
Muslims. These blessings encompassed all his time as a Prophet :i, not
on any particular day or stance. Muslims should therefore imitate the
Prophet :i and implement his law on all days, hours and minutes of
their life, not just in one day that falls in a certain month!
If the reason behind celebrating the Maulid was to resurrect the
Prophet's guidance, commemorate his honor and qualities and recite
his life story, as sorne people c1aim, then let them know that this is
legislated all year long, but according to what Alláh has allowed. For
instance, Alláh has legislated mentioning His Prophet ~ during certain
acts of worship that are repeated every night and day, such as the
Adhan (call to prayer), the Iqamah and during Friday speeches.
Whenever one mentions Alláh during these acts of worship, he also
mentions His Prophet afterwards. These acts are practiced throughout
one's lifetime, not only one day ayear. We should also assert that the
prayer does not become complete and accepted, except by invoking
Alláh for His blessing and Merey for the Prophet ~ during the
Tashahud. These are but a few of the instance during which Alláh has
legislated mentioning the Prophet ;i, and this is the Sunnah that we
should resurrect and implement, while shunning whatever Bid'ah
people invent.
O Alláh's slaves! We have exposed the Bid'ah of celebrating the
Maulid, in particular, so that we emphasize its eviiness and invalidity.
Also, it is a fact that the Maulid is celebrated in many countries and is
usually mentioned in newspapers and other mas s media outlets. This
fact lures sorne ignorant Muslims towards liking and preferring this
Bid'ah and encourages them to try to participate in it.
Let all Muslims know that celebrating the Maulid is an evil Bid'ah,
even though many people practice and propagate it, so do not be
deceived by their large numbers. We ask Alláh to guide us to adhere to
Celebrating the Prophet's Birthday is a Despicable ... 170

Alláh's Book and the Sunnah of His Prophet ~, even if most people
abandon this better path:
» ~»~-:>~~"-~b~~ !c''Í •.• ..-..->,,~~ .... ~í::..-~':'~~ '~_r .~ ~
~.J ..J.P 4.Il\., ~yJ /-..J ~.J 4.IlI .:- _~" 4Il\ -.l~ ~ .J¡ Ji "
"":'. ·.,{"~'::;'~~íf'í·1"-~
",0'~ . »»
.,~ j 'Y"'J''-J
-.lo. 'J'Y -.lo.
"'-::\í"'''-::'íi'>
4Il ~ ¡J'
\~ 'l~ O
"Say (O Muhammad ~ to mankind): 'Ifyou (really) love Alláh,
then follow me (i.e. accept Islámic Monotheism, follow the
Qur'án and the Sunnah), Alláh will love you and forgive you
your sins. And Alláh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.' Say (O
Muharnmad :i): 'Obey Alláh and the Messenger (Muhammad
;i).' But if they tum away, then Alláh does not like the
disbelievers." (3:31,32)1

1 Al-Khutab Al-Minbariyyah, by Shaikh Salih Al- Fozan, vol. 1, p. 124

Disallowing Celebrating the Prophet 's Hijrah 171

Disallowing Celebrating tbe Propbet's Hijrah

All thanks are to Alláh, Lord of all that exists, Who legislated Hijrah
(migration from the land of disbelief to the land of Islam) and
promised those who perform it with great rewards:
-: ~ Ji ~í i;.n~1 ~-::~ ~-::-: !·~ií~-.J:;'{ Al .J~~ ~íJ/.\ (I-:~ .~ r ~.J~/ / / Jo.
u .J;.ll is: fJ":" ~.J J.Jl.9 -..;--"'" ',J~ r' ~~~..).J ;.11 !> ~"t'" ~~ ~ c:;i': (JO.J T

""'~{~-:'
"\ .~:.)~p
~í

"And whosoever leaves his home as an emigrant unto Alláh and

His Messenger, and death overtakes him, his reward is then
surely, incumbent upon Alláh, And Alláh is Ever Oft-Forgiving,
Most Merciful." (4: 100)
1 bear witness that none has the right to be worshipped except Alláh
Alone without partners and that Muhammad ~ is His slave and
Messenger, who said:
~
~
o ~'I¡ ~ cr":
':.~ ~'~I¡ t ~ '1~.J ,~'~I¡
..J-' bá::¡ ..J-'
é:bá::¡
~
':.~ ~< .1\ tbá::¡
~~ ~
'1)
:~ ~
«1':.
. ~~~
"Performing Hijrah will not end until the chance to repent ends,
and the chance to repent will not end until the sun rises from
where it sets."
May Alláhs peace and blessings be on Muhammad, his progeny and
Companions.
i!JJ~\::''..L.:Jí~ ..1í i . / . . - ~l' -ol:-t i .J/\/~ i.J/~~ i~~( -:' ~íJo.
J~ ~~~J--""'t";YO)o!J~J'.J~ ~~.~~ T

~¡;~j
" ... who believed, and emigrated and strove hard and fought with
their property and their lives in the Cause of Alláh as well as
those who gave (them) asylum and help." (8:72)
O people! Fear Alláh the Exalted and study the life story of your
Prophet ~ so that you imitate him, just as Alláh commanded you in
His statement:
4tí~J*~í~t::&ír;.;';f sJ)-:·~.~~~í y~~~¡.S:j5f ~ ~
Disallowing Celebrating the Prophet's Hijrah 172

~~
"Indeed in the Messenger of Alláh (Muhammad ~) you have a
good example to follow for him who hopes for Alláh and the
Last Day, and remembers Alláh much." (33:21)
The Hijrah (ofthe Prophet ~ from Makkah to AI-Madinah around 623
CE) is certainly among the greatest incidents that occurred in the
Prophet's lifetime. When the Mushrikeen of Makkah increased their
opposition and harm to the Messenger ~, he started calling the various
tribes, during Hajj season, to protect and aid him until he delivered the
Message of his Lord. The Prophet ~ did not receive a positive
response, until sorne people from the tribe of Khazraj went to Hajj
from AI-Madinah. The Jews of AI-Madinah used to relate to its Arab
residents that a new Messenger was about to be sent. The Jews
threatened them that they would follow that Prophet ~ and fight them
under his leadership, just as Alláh described of them:

1;::/~.~::...:l ~.~. i~~ .P~ t::.í ~ i-:;'~ jí..Le- ~. /)'~5"'~;'" I,;"í~ :l..
lT_ , _~~...T~~ ~'-', ,,~~. ~I' ".\.o.JJ:i'"

~~~í~;J;í¡:'::~~ifj.k¡;'~~~:~~~~Jf
"And when there carne to them (the Jews), a Book (this Qur'án)
from Alláh confirming what is with them, although aforetime
they had invoked Alláh (for coming of Muhammad ~) in order
to gain victory over those who disbelieved, then when there
carne to them that which they had recognized, they disbelieved
in it. So let the Curse of Alláh be on the disbelievers." (2:89)
Hence, before the Prophet ~ was sent, the Jews used to invoke Alláh
for his coming so that they gain victory against their enemies, saying:
"O Alláh! Aid us with the Prophet who will be sentjust before the
end oftime and whose description we find in the Torah."
When the Prophet ~ carne to the camp area of the various tribes, as he
usually did during the Hajj season, he met sorne pilgrims from the tribe
of Khazraj, who were delighted and said that this is the Prophet ~
Disallowing Celebrating the Prophet 's Hijrah 173

whom the Jews threatened them with. Therefore, they said, "Do not
allow the Jews to follow him before you." They believed in the
Prophet :i, gave their pledge of allegiance to him, then went back to
their people in AI-Madinah and conveyed the good news to them.
Many people in AI-Madinah believed in the Prophet :i and came the
following year during the Ha}} season, gave their pledge of allegiance,
in Al-' Aqabah area, to believe in him and support him if he emigrates
to them in AI-Madinah. The Prophet :i gave permission to his
Companions to start emigrating to AI-Madinah. When he intended to
emigrate himself, Mushrik feared that he might become more powerful
and that his religion might gain strength and thus be difficult to defeat.
They gathered and plotted against the Prophet :i, deciding to
assassinate him and waited by his door, so that they would kill him
when he left his house. Alláh told His Prophet :i about their plot and
he commanded Ali to sleep in his bed that night. Meanwhile, the
Prophet ~ left his house, walking between the people who were
waiting to kill him, but they did not see him departing!
The Prophet ~ then headed towards Abu Bakr's house and found that
he had prepared two camels to travel on and hired a guide to show
them the way. They left Makkah unnoticed and went to Thaur Cave,
where they hid, giving the two camels to the guide so that he brings
them at a certain time later on. When the Mushrikeen realized that the
Messenger ~ had left Makkah, they became furious and gathered their
forces to search for the Prophet ~, offering a hefty reward for those
who captured him. Alláh said:

YL ll7 &:Jí 4~~~~ ~

.be....... jo jo t:.,/ ,/

·:.tí:;·~~~0~~.!í;'~ji.!í)~~Jj;-
.i.:, e:-(ií"-;
'J~J.:-
"And (remember) when the disbelievers plotted against you (O
Muhammad ~) to imprison yo u, or to kilI you, or to get you out
(from your home, i.e., Makkah); they were plotting and Alláh
too was plotting; and Alláh is the Best ofthose who plot." (8:30)
When the Mushrikeen arrived at the cave's entrance, Abu Bakr ~I..?J
said:
«:s-
Disallowing Celebrating the Prophet 's Hijrah 174

"O Alláh's Messenger ~! If any of them looked down at his

feet, he would see us." The Prophet ~ replied, "O Abu Bakr!
What do you think about two persons, who have Alláh as their
third?" Alláh said about this incident:
~~lJ-3k::)GG~'i'é =~~í;';:~Sl~í:~~:--,'; ';'~'h ~
~b:J¡":::GLZú-~~ ,~j~~l.,¿úií~
"If you help him (Muhammad ~) not (it does not matter), for
Alláh did indeed help him when the disbelievers drove him out,
the second of the two; when they were in the cave, he (~) said to
his Companion: "Be not sad, surely, Alláh is with us." (9:40)
By the leave of Alláh the Mushrik did not notice them and they went
back with failure and humiliation. The Prophet ~ and Abu Bakr 1\ ~.J
-= remained in the cave for a few days, while Abdullah bin Abu Bakr
'-+>- 11 ~.J brought them the news of the Mushrik from Makkah.
Meanwhile, 'Amir bin Fahirah, Abu Bakr's servant, used to tend a
flock of sheepand pass by them so they could drink from the sheep's
milk. Asma' bint Abu Bakr ~ 1\ ~.J used to bring food to them
during the night. They remained in the cave for three days, until the
Mushrikeen were no longer looking for them. Then, the guide brought
back the two camels as they agreed before, and the Prophet ~ and Abu
Bakr -= 1\~.J rode the camels headed towards AI-Madinah.
In Al-Madinah, the Muhajirin (Migrants) and Ansar (residents of AI­
Madinah who aided the Prophet ~) were impatient1y awaiting the
Prophet's arrival every day, until Alláh brought the Prophet ~ and his
Companion safely to them. Ever since then, the Islamic State was
established and soon after, Alláh ordained Jihád on His Prophet ~ to
raise Alláh's Word high and to make His religion prominent. The
Messenger ~ performed continuous Jihád, and Alláh aided him with
victory and made his religion dominant, until he entered Makkah
victorious surrounded by the Muhajirin and Ansar. The Prophet ~
smashed all the idols in and around the Ka'bah, entered it and
pronounced Alláh's Greatness in it. He then went out to the Qurasih
pagans who were gathered around Al-Mosque AI-Haram awaiting their
Disallowing Celebrating the Prophet's Hijrah 175

just punishment. He asked them, "O people of Quraish! What do you

think I will do to you?" They said, "Only that which is good, for verily,
you are an honorable brother and an honorable nephew." He replied, "1
say to you what (Prophet) Joseph ¡JUI ....,J.<. said to his brothers:
.c •-t:
"<:~J' r--,/ :¡ JÁ-'r
~\í . .
J
/.. /~Z''''t ~í ~i-':'
.... ~. . ~·"'ií"'~.:í:::.::::..., :::..q J..
~. _-/'-' r
"No reproach on you this day; may Alláh forgive you, and He is
the Most Merciful ofthose who show merey!" (12:92)
Go you way, for you are At-Tulaqaa, " meaning, 'Those set free.'
This is how the Prophet :'i migrated for the purpose of raising Alláh' s
religion and His Word high. It was not meant for comfort and luxury
of the body. This is how Hijrah will remain until the sun rises from
where it sets. It is for those who are unable to practice Islam in the area
of Kufr, including the ability to call to Islam and explaining the error
ofthe disbelieving religions. It is not enough (not to perform Hijrah) to
just be able to pray and fast while refraining calling to Alláh and
criticizing and admonishing Shirk and Kufr. Otherwise, the Prophet ~
would have remained in Makkah, since the Mushrik did not prevent
him from praying and worshipping his Lord. However, they prevented
him from calling to Alláh and exposing the evil beliefs that the pagans
and disbelievers hado
O Alláh's slaves, sorne people in the present time do not have the least
knowledge about the Prophet's Hijrah, except that it is an anniversary
that comes every year and for which lectures and celebrations are
conducted for days. Then, this occasion passes by and its memory does
not show any effect on people's conduct and behavior. This is why so
many among them do not migrate from the area of Kufr to the area of
Islam, as the Prophet ~ did. Rather, they migrate from Muslim areas to
Kufr countries to live free.
The Hijrah should be always in the thoughts of Muslims all year long,
not only for a few days every year. Surely, it is a Bid 'ah to designate
certain days to celebrate the Hijrah:
Disallowing Celebrating the Prophet's Hijrah 176

" ... And every Bid 'ah is a heresy."

The Prophet ~, his Companions after him and the best generations of
Islam never eelebrated this oecasion. Rather, the Salaf, (our righteous
predecessors) and those who followed their righteous lead, studied the
Prophet's life story, so that they imitated his practices all year long.
Know that there are two types of Hijrah. One is performed by the heart
to AIJ¡ih by worshipping Him Alone without partners, and to His
Messenger ~ by obeying him, fulfilling his orders and avoiding his
prohibitions. The Prophet ~ said:
. ((~~41 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~L?JI.J)) D
"The Muhajir is he who performs Hijrah from what Alláh has
prohibited."
This Hijrah is required from every Muslim throughout his or her life
and none among them can or is allowed to abandon it.
The second type of Hijrah pertains to m igrating from the area of Shirk
to the area of Islam, when necessity arises and when Muslims are
unable to announce Islam in Kafir dominated areas.
Fear Alláh, O Alláh's slaves, and study the Sunnah ofyour Prcphet ss,
so that you earn benefit from it.

~~~j~j;.Jí;~í~lJ ~
"And obey Alláh and the Messenger (Muhammad ~) that you
may obtain merey." (3:132)
May Alláh direct us all to the blessings of the Glorious Qur 'án and
benefit us aH in whatever is in it of the Áyat and Wise Dhikr. 1 say this
and ask Alláh the Great, Most Honored for forgiveness for me, you
and all Muslims for every. Invoke Him for forgiveness, for He is the
Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.'

1 Al-Khutab Al-Minbariyyah, by Shaikh Salih AI-Fozan, vol. 1, p. 268

 Forbidding the Various Bid 'ah during the month oiRajab 177

Forbidding the Various Bid'ah

during the month of Rajab
All praises and thanks are due to Alláh, Who cornrnanded that His
Messenger ~ be followed and obeyed and forbade us frorn innovating
(adding to or deleting from) his religion, when He said:

"Follow what has been sent down unto you from your Lord (the
Qur'án and Prophet Muhamrnad's Sunnah), and follow not any
I Auliyá' (protectors and helpers who order you to associate
partners in worship with Alláh), besides Him (Alláh)." (7:3)
1 bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except Alláh
Alone, Who only accepts the good deeds that conform to what He has
legislated and that were performed in sincerity for His Face. 1 bear
witness that Muharnrnad ~ is Alláhs slave and Messenger who
warned against all Bid'ah, when he said,

"Beware ofmatters ofinnovation, for every Bid 'ah is a heresy."

May Alláhs peace and blessings be on Muharnrnad, his progeny,
companions and all those who adhere to his Sunnah and do not invent
in the religion what is not a part of it.
O Muslims, fear Alláh and know that innovating in the religion is the
source of all kinds of trials and Fitnah. The devil strives hard to hinder
people from embracing the correct Faith. When he finds sorne ofthem
who are disinterested in the religion, he encourages this attitude and
lures them to satisfy their lusts and desires. As for those who are
interested in the religion, Satan lures them to commit various types of
Bid'ah, so that he spoils their religion.
Therefore, dear Muslims, beware of this danger and know that the
religion is complete and does not need or accept any addition or
deletion. Alláh said:
Forbidding the Various Bid 'ah during the month 01Rajab 178

~~~ ~ illtr;.ií ~
"This day, I have perfected your religion for you." (5:3)
Therefore, there is no place in the religion for Bid'ah, just as Imam
Malik asserted when he said, "Whoever invents a Bid'ah in Islam,
thinking that it is a 'good Bid'ah', will have accused Muhammad ss of
not delivering the Message faithfully, because Alláh said:
~~~~illtr;.ií ~
"This day, I have perfected your religion for you." (5:3)
Surely, what was not a part ofthe religion then (in Muhammad's) time,
when this Áyah was revealed), is not a part ofthe religion today!"
The Mubtadi', who invents in the religion, contradicts Alláh since He
Alone decides the ways and means to acquire goodness. The Mubtadi'
seeks to deduct from or add to Alláh's religion, thus elevating himself
to the rank of partner with Alláh in legislating in the religion, and
sufficient is this as an evil and misguidance. Alláh ordained that what
He legislated be obeyed and implemented, but the Mubtadi' refuses
and follows his lusts without guidance from Alláh!
O Alláh's slaves! In this part of the world, Arabia, we were immune
from many types of Bid'ah by Alláh's help. However, through the
availability of mass media, sorne Bid'ah was able to enter our land by
those who were raised to love and invent Bid 'ah and who practice it
while living among uso This might lure many common Muslims to
follow suit, compelling us to wam Muslims in this area and the rest of
the world against Bid 'ah, especially during the times and occasions
that these Bid'ah are practiced. We must do this so that Muslim are
able to protect their religion. For instance, there are several Bid 'ah that
are practiced during the lunar month of Rajab by those who claim that
this month has special not found in than other months.
First, we should assert that Rajab is one of the sacred months. The
Prophet ~ was reported to have recited this supplication with regards
to Rajab:
Forbidding the Various Bid 'ah during the month 01 Rajab 179

. «~~) ~J ~\~: "'J~) .:¿:+i J; 8lJ¿~ r.¡!l!))

"O Alláh! Bless for us the montbs of Rajab and Sba'ban, and
allow us to live until Ramadhán."
Other than tbis Hadith that was reported from tbe Propbet ~, there is
not a Hadith about Rajab in specific. Ratber, the various Ahadith tbat
people mention about tbe special qualities of Rajab are lies and fake,
just as Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyab asserted. People bave invented
rnany types of Bid'ah for this rnonth that neither Alláh, nor His
Messenger ~ legislated. For instance, people honor the first Thursday
in Rajab and the night that proceeds the first Friday. This practice was
invented after tbe year four hundred of Hijrah calendar. The Hadith,
mentioned by people about this special quality, is fabricated, according
to the consensus of the scholars. Therefore, Muslirns are not allowed to
honor this particular day or night in Rajab, because they are just like
any other day or night ofthe year. Al-Hafiz bin Rajab said, "Pertaining
to praying, there is no special type of prayer legislated in the month of
Rajab. Further, the Ahadith that were reported about the benefit of the
type of prayer called, Ar-Raghaib, during the night that precedes the
first Friday in the rnonth of Rajab are all lies and invalido This
particular type of prayer is a Bid'ah according to the rnajority of
scholars. As for fasting, there are no authentic statements frorn the
Prophet ~ or his Companions about the special quality of fasting
during Rajab."
It was reported that 'Umar ~ .11 c?J used to force the hands of sorne
meo who fasted during Rajab to be placed on food and to eat, saying,
"What is it about Rajab? Rajab was revered by the people of
Jahiliyyah, but when Islam carne this practice was annulled." In
another narration, 'Umar ~ 11 ~J disliked that one takes the habit of
fasting in Rajab, so that it would not become a Sunnah. As for
performing Umrah during Rajab, it was not reported that the Prophet :i
ever performed Umrah during this rnonth. Therefore, Umrah in Rajab
is not particularly better than Umrah in other months of the year.
Celebra[ing [he Nigh[ 01Al-lsra' wal-Mi 'raj ([he Prophe[ 's... 180

Celebrating the Night of Al-Isrii' wal-Mi'raj

(the Prophet's overnight Journey from

Makkah to Jerusalem, then to Heaven

then back to Makkah)

Celebrating the night of Isrá' or Mi 'raj on the twenty-seventh night of

Rajab is yet another Bid 'ah that pertains to this month. They designate
special acts of worship during that night and recite specific types of
Du 'a " remembering of Alláh and prayer. All these acts are being
practiced without authority from Alláh,
There are several reasons why it is Bid'ah to designate the twenty­
seventh night of Rajab to celebrate the night of Isrá ' or Mi 'raj.
l. There is no proof that Isrá' occurred in the month of Rajab or the
twenty-seventh night of that month, for the scholars have
conflicting opinions regarding when it actualiy occurred. Therefore,
designating a specific night to celebrate Al-Isrá' wal-Mi 'raj does
not rely on valid evidence.
2. Even if the night of Isrá' was known using valid evidence, we are
not allowed to invent an act of worship that Alláh and His
Messenger ~ did not allow. The Prophet ~ was not reported to
have ever celebrated the night of Isrá' or designated certain acts of
worship during it, nor did the Rightly Guided Caliphs, the rest of
the Companions or those who followed their way and path ceIebrate
it. Therefore, no one who carne after them is aIlowed to invent an
act of worship that they did not practice.
3. There are many types of evil that are being practiced during the
night of Isrá " as evident by the foIlowing part of a book about the
harmful effects of Bid 'ah. The author of Al-Ibdá' for Madharri Al­
Ibtida' wrote, "People have become creative in the types of evils
and Bid 'ah that they practice during the celebration of the night of
Isrá '. They have invented many acts of worship such as gathering
Celebrating the Night ofAl-Isrá' wal-Mi 'raj ... 181

in the mosques, lighting candles and lamps in them and around the
minarets and spending in extravagance on these festivities." He
next wrote, "How good it is the way and method that the Righteous
Salaf practiced, for they were active and energetic concerning
imitating the Sunnah of the Messenger of Alláh ~ and refraining
from the smallest contradiction of his practices. They believed that
contradicting the Prophet's Sunnah was a heresy; this better way
(against Bid'ah) was especially prevalent during the time of the
Companions and those who came after them among the first three
generations whose righteousness was asserted (by the Messenger),
may Alláh be pleased with them all."

It is amazing to see those who might not perform the five daily prayers
attend the celebration for the night of Isrá', or if they pray, they do not
attend the prayer in congregation in the mosque. They are active when
the Bid'ah is practiced and lazy when it is time to perform the
obligations and Sunnah!

O Alláh's slaves! Bid'ah is to invent novelties in the religion and

constitutes a modification that adds to it regulations and restraints 011
which time, effort and great wealth are being spent. However, all that
the Bid'ah does, is bring one closer to the Fire and far from Paradise,
in addition to earning him or her Alláhs anger and punishment. Yet,
people of ignorance and misguidance do not seem to understand, for
they are still wandering blindly in their misguidance. Their efforts only
take them farther from Alláh and their striving (in resurrecting Bid 'ah)
brings them more of His Anger.

Á "" ..". """"')- ., -: "" ~,. // ,.,:'

~~ü:~'j~~':1 O~-!,",~)t~i\.J,P.
"Some faces, that Day will be humiliated (in the
Hell-fire). Laboring (hard in the worldly life by worshipping
others besides Alláh), weary (in the Hereafter with humility and
disgrace). They will enter in the hot blazing Fire. They will be
given to drink from a boiling spring. No food will there be for
them but a poisonous thorny plant. Which will neither nourish
Celebrating the Night 01Al-Isrá' wal-Mi 'raj oo. 182

nor avail against hunger." (88:2-7)

May Alláh direct us all to the blessings of the Glorious Qur'án and
benefit us all in whatever is in it of the Áyat and Wise Dhikr. 1 say this
and ask Alláh the Great, Most Honored for forgiveness for me, you
and all Muslims for every sin. Invoke Him for forgiveness, for He is
1
the Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.

1 Al-Khutab AI-Minbariyyah, by Shaikh Salih AI-Fozan, vol. 2, p. 62

Encauraging Visiting [he Praphe[ 's Masque in AI-Madinah 183

Encouraging Visiting tbe

Propbet's Mosque in AI-Madinab

All thanks are to Alláh, Who created the heavens and earth. 1 thank and
praise Him, as He is Worthy of all praise, and He is Able to do all
things. 1 bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except
Alláh Alone, without partners, and that Muhammad :i is His slave and
Messenger whom Alláh sent with truth as Bringer of glad tidings and
Wamer. O Alláh! Send Your best merey and blessings on Your slave
and Messenger Muhammad and on his progeny and Companions.
Many pilgrims feel eager to travel to Al-Madinah for the purpose of
visiting the Prophet's Mosque, encouraged by the Prophet's statement:
:~\
•/
'1\ ,~r~
!:
W.o)G,
"/.
wJl ~
/
'. 'r" -; ,\:J, ~
~/ ~
. ~o)G,))
~ ,
. ((¡':;;JI
"One prayer in this mosque of mine is better than a thousand
prayers in any other mosque, except for AI-Masjid Al-Haram (in
Makkah)."
Therefore, visiting the Prophet's Mosque to pray in it is encouraged
and legislated. We should assert that it is allowed to travel to visit the
Prophet's Mosque in Al-Madinah for the purpose of praying in it, but
not for the purpose of visiting the Prophet's grave. The Prophet ~
forbade us from travelling to visit any grave, just as he forbade us from
making his grave a place for celebrations (Le., visiting it at special
designated times). The Prophet ~ said:
,\1;, ~~J 'r1y;J\ ~\ : i.: G ~5ú Ji '11 j~~1 E; 'h
-" Q~ el

. (( ~"\11 J->...':_:W
<.. .J
"Travelling is not allowed to other than the three Mosques: AI­
Masjid Al-Hararn (in Makkah), this Mosque of mine and AI­
Masjid Al-Aqsa (in Jerusalem)."
Further, 'AIi bin Al-Husain ~ 1\ ~,) saw aman go towards a small
opening in the room where the Prophet ~ was buried, try to enter it and
Encauraging Visiting the Praphet's Masque in Al-Madinah 184

supplicate to Alláh next to the Prophet's grave. 'Ali es- 1\ ~)

discouraged him saying, "1 will narrate to you a Hadith that my father
narrated frorn my grandfather ('Ali es- 1\ ~)) from the Messenger of
*
Alláh that he said:
~ 8 '" " '"
¡..s:.;'>G 0p
-' -- '" -- '"

-~ I~J d~;; r~ 'i J _\~ ~? \jj~

'" j. " j. // '"

'i))

j. "j. j.,... » » ,...

. 11'--::" ~ .:\':
r-- . ~

"Do not make my gravesite a place of celebration, nor turn your

homes into graves (by not performing voJuntary prayers in
them) and recite the Saldt (prayer for Alláh blessings) on me.
Verily, your reciting Salát on me is conveyed to me no matter
where you."
*
In this Hadith, the Praphet forbade us frorn turning his gravesite into
a holiday Festival by visiting it in certain times, such as during Rajab.
Also, Alláh has granted a special quaJity for saying the Salát on His
Prophet ñ, for He will deliver the Saldt to him no matter where the one
who said it is, whether close to his grave or in his own area:
j. "j.s » '" " 8"" '" ~ '"
j. '" '" '" ~ ,. .
.((¡.-:.:s ~ ~ r~ 0p - ~ 1)'.pJ))
" ..and recite the Salát on me. Verily, your saying Salát on me is
conveyed to me no matter where you are."
Visiting the Prophet's grave is not a necessary act of worship, nor a
pillar or an obligatory act of Hajj as sorne people think. Furthermore,
we should assert that there are many Ahadith that were invented about
the virtue of visiting the Praphet's grave, and these Ahadith have
become common knowledge to many people! Some of them heard
these Ahadith so often that they began to think that they are authentic,
when in fact they are fake and utter Iies. This is why many people
endure hardships to visit the Prophet's grave and also think that
visiting AI-Madinah is a requirement of Hajj. For instance, among the
fake Ahadith that are falsely attributed to the Prophet is that they *
claim that he said, "Whoever visits me (my grave) after I die, will be
as if he visited me in my life. Whoever visits my grave earns my
Shifá 'ah. And whoever performs Hajj, but does not visit me (my
Encauraging Visiting the Praphet 's Masque in Al-Madinah 185

Ahadith that are plain lies, according to the scholars of Islam.

Whoever intended to visit the Prophet's mosque should do so and try to
perform as many prayers in the mosque as Alláh allows him. Then, one
is allowed to visit the Prophet's grave and recite the Saldm (salutation of
peace) on him, observing quietness and extreme politeness, for raising
one's voice is not good behavior in the presence of the Prophet já. One
then recites the Salam on the Prophet's two Companions buried next to
him, Abu Bakr and 'Umar, ~ 1\ ~ j . One should then leave the
gravesite and should not supplicate to Alláh while facing the grave.
Those who could not visit the Prophet's mosque, even during their Hajj,
then their Hajj is complete and there is no sin on them. In this case,
one's Hajj is adequate and he or she should feel assured that they have
fulfilled the duties of Hajj, for AIHih and His Messenger ~ only required
Hajj to Al-Masjid Al-Haram in Makkah.
Whoever visits Al-Madinah and prays at the mosque ofthe Messenger
~ of Alláh is recommended to pray at Mosque Qubá' and visit the
graveyard of Al-Baqi'. However, it is not from the Sunnah to visit all
the Mosques in that area. 'Umar = 11 ~ j once saw sorne people head
towards a certain area and he asked, "Where are these people headed
to?" They said, "To a place where they say the Messenger of Alláh ~
prayed at." 'Umar-» 1\ ~ j said,
"Even if it was a place where the Messenger of Alláh ~ prayed
at! Do you want to make the footsteps ofyour Prophets as places
ofworship? Indeed, this is how earlier nations were destroyed."
1 invoke Alláh to direct us all to perform righteous good deeds and to
make all our actions beneficial and accepted. 1 say this and seek Alláh's
forgiveness for me, you and all other MusJims from every error and sin.
Seek His forgiveness, for He is the All Forgiving, Most MercifuJ.l

Ahadith Al-Minbar, by Shaikh Abdul-Aziz bin Abdullah bin Hasan Al­

Shaikh, p. 167
Seeking the Shifá 'ah (Intercession) 186

Seeking tbe Shifíi 'ah (Intercession)

All praises and thanks are to Alláh, Who Alone created the heavens
and the earth, and originated the darkness and the light; yet those who
disbelieve hold others as equal with their Lord. 1 thank and praise
Him. None can count His blessings except Him, the One Worthy ofall
praise, just as He praised Himself. 1 bear witness that there is no deity
worthy of worship except Alláh Alone without partners, the Lord of
those in the heavens and those on the earth. 1 bear witness that
Muhammad ~ is Alláh's slave and Messenger and the best of
mankind. O Alláh! Bestow Your best blessings and peace on Your
slave and Messenger Muhammad and on his progeny and
Companions.
Each one of us seeks what benefits him or her and likes to perform
righteous deeds, so that he or she collects Alláh's rewards and favors:

•• "~j\~:A__ t- ---:-. n 0;-- /('. ..ó"~Jl'-"~:.j-::

"'/ ,,; ¿'/ ,­

"':;;:'::\'"
",\, __ !J-'""
/~ ~.:.ro.J ,~~ ~ __ :~."J
_¡ j ' ~
7'
"So whosoever does good equal to the weight of an atom (or a
small ant) shall see it. And whosoever does evil equal to the
weight ofan atom (or a small ant) shall see it." (99:7,8)
y et, all statements and actions will neither avail one, nor bear their
intended fruits, unless they were performed in sincerity to Alláh Alone
and following the Sunnah ofthe Messenger of Alláh i:i.
O Muslims! Who among us does not believe in or like to earn the
Prophet's Shifá'ah on the Day ofResurrection, when Alláh will grant
him this right, as well as bestow on him the Al-Maqam Al-Mahmud,
the praised position that will be celebrated by the earlier and latter
generations of mankind. On that Day, our Prophet i:i will be granted
the Grand Shifá 'ah (on behalf of creation) that even the mighty
Prophets ¡')LJI ~ will decline to seek and assume. But when creation
comes to our Prophet ~, he will declare, "1 am worthy of seeking it."
On that Day, the creations will seek the Shifá 'ah of the Prophets ~
Seeking the Shifá 'ah (Intercession) 187

rJU1 with Alláh on their behalf, so that He relieves them from the
hardships of the Day of Gathering. However, the mighty Messengers
wi11 decline to take up that job, as we stated, and this is when they will
come to the best and most honorable of creation to Alláh, Muharnmad
~. The Prophet ~ will go to his Lord and prostrate before Him first,
before asking for the right to conduct the Shifá 'ah. Then he will be
commanded, "Raise your head and speak, for you will be heard, ask
and you wi11 be given, and seek the right of the Shifá 'ah and it will be
granted to you." This Shifá 'ah, the Grand Shifá 'ah, is exclusively for
the Messenger of Alláh and none else shall share it with him.
The Prophet ~ has many other types of Shifá 'ah, all of which will
occur on the Day of Resurrection and onJy by Alláhs Permission.
Alláh only grants Shifá 'ah to those whom He is pleased with on behalf
of those whom He is pleased with, exclusiveJy from among the
followers of Tauhid and sincerity.
~41;'~~.Ií~j~
"Say: 'To Alláh beJongs all intercession.'" (39:44)
"'."A:.;l,
"'I!\ //
-I1,:i:.&. e':; -.>J\ \;:,:; ).r
1::-;''' "'" .. / V

"Who is he that can intercede with Him except with His

Perrnission?" (2:255)

"On that day no intercession shall avail, except the one for
whom the Most Gracious (Alláh) has given permission and
whose word is acceptable to Him." (20:109)
And:

~.qJ;J~~í~~~.;:·h¡:':~Jí~-1);-; "
"And they cannot intercede except for him with whom He is
pleased." (21 :28)
Alláh is pleased only with Tauhid and only accepts the statements and
actions performed inwardly and outwardly for His sake Alone. Since
Seeking the Shifá 'ah (Intercession) 188

the Shifá 'ah is in Alláh's Hands Alone and He grants it exclusively to

sincere believers, only with His Leave and Permission, then it is not
allowed for anyone to seek the Shifd 'ah, except from Alláh, Owner of
al1 Shifá 'ah. On the Day of Judgment, Alláh wil1 grant permission for
the Shifá 'ah (by the Prophet ~ and righteous people) for those who
worshipped Him in Tauhid, performed righteous deeds in sincerity
with Him, followed the Sunnah of Alláh's Messenger ~ and died
while on this righteous path. It is for those whom the Shifá 'ah of the
Prophet ~ will be granted, and it is they who are worthy of receiving it.
Abu Huraira 'W- .1\ c>"') asked the Messenger of Alláh ~:
JY'-") • ¿;.~~
J /\:;
/ . <J" / /
~ / : Jw ~
8\:k..:.l 0-" ~~.&I .r.. f' Yo1 Jt.::.,
/ JY'-") ;/0/' J /

. ((~ ~ ~~J.&I ~r.Jl"¡ J~~» : J~ ~;&I

"O Alláhs Messenger! Who will be the happiest person, who
will gain your intercession on the Day of Resurrection?"
Alláhs Messenger ~ said, "The one who said sincerely from
the bottom of his heart 'None has the right to be worshipped but
Alláh. '"
Hence, Alláh only grants the people of sincerity His Favors and
forgives them through the supplication of those whom He allows to
intercede on their behalf with Him.
As we stated, there are two conditions regarding earning the Shifá 'ah:
when Alláh is pleased with the person on whose behalf the Shifd 'ah is
conducted and when He allows the person who is taking the task of
Shifá 'ah, to do so. Alláh will only grant this permission when He
intends to grant His merey to His slave who sinned, but was upon
Tauhid. He thus allows sorne of the sincere believers to interceded
with Him on his behalf. Again, the Prophet *
c1early stated that the
reasons behind earning the Shifá 'ah are: Tauhid, sincerity in worship
and avoiding major and minor Shirk (Polytheism).
The Prophet * said:
Seeking the Shifá 'ah (Intercession) 189

~~ J~;
..
¿,'t;:j.l) .'2;-; ~
.. ,....
J5 ~ .~L;': ~y; ~.. ~)) '" .....
$$ ,.,- y. e ..... .....".".........." 1
. ((~ .&L ~
-/ ~ r .' 'lI ::.,~ 0-"
~ , _''&I:L;. .:.>I_;JJI,';' .• ;;;,t:.¡J!
~
/u
/.¿f / -/ iY-'-:f:"
-~ 'J

"Every Prophet ~ has an accepted Du 'a (encornpassing

supplication), and every Prophet ij has used his Du 'a in this
life. 1 kept rny Du 'a as Shifá 'ah for rny Ummah (Muslim
nation) on the Day of Resurrection. Alláh willing, it will reach
those who die while associating none with Alláh in worship."
Therefore, dear Muslirns, perforrn righteous deeds, obey Alláh and
His Messenger :1, fulfill Alliih' s Comrnandments, avoid what He has
prohibited and shun all ways and means of Shirk, so that you eam the
Prophet's Shifá 'ah on your behalf. Only seek the Shifá 'ah from Alláh
and invoke Hirn to allow your Prophet to offer Shifá 'ah with Him for
you.
O AIJ¡ih! We invoke you to allow Your Prophet Muhammad ~ to
intercede with Y ou for us and never deprive us of his Shifá 'ah. 1 say
these words and seek Alláh's forgiveness from every error for you, me
and all Muslirns. Seek Alláh's forgiveness, for verily, He is Oft­
Forgiving, the Most Mercifu1. 1

I Ahadith Al-Minbar, by Shaikh Abdul-Aziz bin Abdullah bin Hasan Al­

Shaikh, p. 47 .
Contradicting Disbelievers is a Requirement ofIslam 190

Contradicting Disbelievers is a

Requirement of Islam

All thanks to Alláh, Who ordered us to imitate the master and chief of
all righteous people, Muhammad, and forbade us from imitating
Mushrik (polytheists) and Kuffar (disbelievers, non- Muslims). 1 thank
and praise Him for the bounties He bestowed on us and for the evils
he saved us from. 1 bear witness that there is no deity worthy of
worship except Alláh Alone, without partners, and that Muhammad is
His slave and Messenger. May Alláh's peace and blessings be on
Muhammad, his progeny and his Companions.
O people! Fear Alláh and feel pride in your religion. O Alláh's slaves!
Alláh the Exalted has enriched Muslims and favored them with a
perfect religion that is suitable for every religious and material benefit.
Alláh has connected happiness in this life and the Hereafter to
adhering to this religion and holding to it firmly.
--rL ",.", /',/ ~ /' // ... /'J. //-:::.Jl // ~
~c:.P..~j ~)l9 -s\.u él ~ 7"
"Then whoever follows My Guidance he shall neither go astray,
nor shall be distressed." (20: 123)
And:
",,/y./."".)~/ -:; .l ..... /"'" /.J.,/"'''''::k..
~.:.>j>~r' Jjl:¡)c¡j~)Ü-S\..l.Alti~7"

"And whoever follows My Guidance, there shall be no fear on

them, nor shall they grieve." (2:38)
Islam is the Straight Path taken by the Prophets, Siddiqun (truthful
ones), martyrs and righteous believers; whatever contradicts this
Straight Path, is on the path of those who earned Alláh' s anger and are
led astray: the Jews, Christians and Mushrik.
Dear Muslims! Whenever you recite Surat Al-Fátihah in the prayer,
which is a pillar in every Rak 'ah, you invoke Alláh to guide you to the
Straight Path and to steer you away from the path of those who
Contradicting Disbelievers is a Requirement 01 Islam 191

incurred His anger and those who were led astray. Contemplate this
Du 'a you are making and the fruits it will bear for you. The first
meaning that this Du delivers, is that you are required to imitate the
'á

Sunnah and Law of the Prophet ~ and the way he conducted the acts
ofworship, dealings, public and private conduct, and so forth. Another
meaning is that you are required to defy and contradict the
disbelievers in whatever acts of worship, dealings, traditions and
behavior that they engage in. Since imitating the disbelievers leads to
loving them, then the Book of Alláh and the Sunnah of His Messenger
~ have ordained defying them and forbade imitating them in any way
or form, so as to save Muslims from what might bring them harm (and
ultimately Alláhs Anger). Surely, all the efforts and deeds of the
disbelievers are in vain, and this is why any act they indulge in is
never free from useless parts. Alláh said:
,\////("/ ~/;i o\:~L-"- ;:;"',/ í..
»» / oÍ >/¡/\-:\ _~/ ií/ ~(. h(\ >.1' /./ - / .
.-'{:;'j"~ ')~~"\Aú· ~~;.~J-J \ 'J~~~!J T

~I{:~,
"As for those who disbelieved, their deeds are like a mirage in a
deserto The thirsty one thinks it to be water, until he comes up to
it, he finds it to be nothing." (24:39)
And:
L':""~ ./. > .JI Á¡ ¿ -::¿E,,'LGY' ~í ::~r·
~ ;" / ;t'-Y.'-!t.. /" ~ '.r
./ ¡J-"
í > -:(/ - : jn-;:-:"
~~'Jy-4-l ~/
"The parable ofthose who disbelieved in their Lord is that their
works are as ashes, on which the wind blows furiously on a
stormy day." (14:18)

O Muslims! Even though Alláh has ordained on us to defy the

disbelievers, He has decided with His Perfect Knowledge and revealed
this knowledge to His Prophet ~ that sorne Muslims would imitate
disbelievers. The Prophet ~ said in a Hadith that Al-Bukhdri and
Muslim collected from Abu Sa'id Al-Khudri -= 1 1 .$") .
,~ ~ ~ \~; :,J J;. ~j]~ ~j]\ JJ;. ~ ~L5 ~ ~ ~ ;::j»
Contradicting Disbelievers is a Requirement ofIslam 192

i ~1 • ~((~)) : J~ \S~\ /o:'llj ~~í /.&1 J"":'~~ : I)~

((~;~l';':lí
. ~-¡~
~H)JI
"You will follow the traditions of those who were before you,

step by step, even if they enter a Dhab (Iizard) den, you will

enter it as well." They said, "O Alláhs Messenger, the Jews and

Christians?" He said, "Who else?"

Further, Al-Bukhári narrated in the Sahih from Abu Huraira es- 1\ c?J
that the Prophet ~ said:
.......... o" {. . . . } 0"..... .........} . . . }............... . . . . ..- .... J. ~ .....

t.:J I} -. '1)) : J \j
»Ó>
J.:,:.. C; _" I J.:,:.. \.; ':.
...p" ~
~
i~ :.r ó/'y!./,/ Lf'~\ ~
.J¡~ ~
~ '-!':'
:'1\. ~
D
: J~ ~i/,Jlj Ú"'¿W' /.&1 J"":'~~ : ~ ((t!~~~ ~I~~j 2 \~ ~J~\
/ .
..... ..... {...... ....
. ((~J\ '1~ ;/81 ~J))

"The Hour will not start until my Ummah imitates the earlier

nations, a hand-span for a hand-span and a yard for a yard." He

was asked, "Like Persia and Rome, O Alláhs Messenger ~?"

He said, "And who are the people other than they?"

Therefore, the Prophet ~ stated that sorne members of his Ummah will
imitate the traditions and ways of the Jews and Christians, Persia and
Rome (or Byzantine), whom he used to prohibit imitating in
particular. We should assert that when the Prophet ~ said this, he did
not state that all of his Ummah would fall into imitating disbelievers.
Rather, a Mutawatir Hadith (which is collected from numerous
authentic chains of narration) stated that the Prophet ~ said:
J..........
. ((~L:JI r..,z J.....;;;:.....
~ :;;JI
~ o

J." ó~l1 ~\ ~ ~l1 JI) '1))

.......... ' ..... ......; ."......"'" -' /" ...­

"There wi II always be a group of my Ummah that will be

manifestly on the truth until the Last Hour starts."

Also, the Prophet ~ stated that AIHih will never allow all Muslims to
agree to evil, for He will always plant seeds in this Ummah, whom He
will direct to His obedience. It is a fact, therefore, that sorne members
of the Muslim Ummah will always adhere by the Prophet' s guidance,
which is pure Islam. Furthermore, there will always be those who
Contradicting Disbelievers is a Requirement o/Islam 193

deviate from this religion, to a path contained by the Jewish or

Christian religions. This type of deviation will be made tempting by
the devil, and this is why the slave is required to invoke Alláh often to
guide him or her to the correct path containing no part of the
deviations of Judaism or Christianity.
There is wisdom behind forbidding imitating the disbelievers and
requiring Muslims to contradict them. It is that imitating disbelievers
outwardly leads to imitating them inwardly, with the result being
agreeing with their traditions and deeds. In contrast, contradicting the
disbelievers outwardly leads to contradicting them inwardly.
Consequently, Muslims will in the latter case stay away from all
means and ways that might earn them Alláhs anger or being led
astray, all the while being directed to the path of people of the right
religion and Alláhs Pleasure.
Many Muslims in the present times imitate disbelievers in the way
they speak, dress and behave. This evil has become manifested in so
many aspects that cannot be counted in this short speech. Por instance,
large crowds of Muslim men shave their beards and grow their
mustaches and hair to imitate the latest models and actors put forth by
the disbelievers. In contrast, the Prophet ~ commanded trimming the
mustache, growing the beard and contradicting the disbelievers, who
shave their beards and sometimes grow the mustache!
Trímming the mustache and growing the beard are acts and traditions
of the Fitrah (natural way that Alláh created) and a part of the
guidance ofthe Prophets that contradicts the enemies of Alláh and Bis
Messengers. Also, these acts are beneficial, for trimming the mustache
ensures the mouth is clean from whatever falls from the nose. This
insures that the mustache hairs do not mix with whatever food or drink
one is taking. Also, refraining from trimming the mustache does not
add beauty to the face, but rather the opposite. This is true, even
though sorne people, whose opinions are unimportant to us Muslims,
might think otherwise. As for the beard, it adds grace and beauty to a
man's face, especially in old age. Those who disobey the Prophet ~
and shave their beard lose the beauty and charm the beard adds to their
Contradicting Disbelievers is a Requirement ofIslam 194

faces. But, this is the result offoolishly imitating the traditions ofnon­
Muslims, thus preferring what is ugly in essence and disliking what is
beautiful in essence. All that we can say to such people is that we
invoke Alláh to guide us, and them to the Straight Path. We advise
them to repent from this error and revert to correctness, for re­
embracing truth is surely better than persisting in evil. The Sunnah of
the Messenger of Alláh has been explained to you, and you are
commanded to follow him and imitate his practices, no matter how
many are those who defy him:

~j~..:~t:.l~í y~~~$J0f jjj ~

"Indeed in the Messenger of Alláh (Muhammad ~) you have a
good example to follow." (33:21)
Another example of imitating disbelievers is that Muslims speak to
each other in other languages without necessity, even Arabs who live
in Arabia! The more a Muslim speaks the languages of the
disbelievers, his Arabic will become weaker, even though Arabic is
the symbol and language of Islam. It is a fact that language is one of
the greatest symbols that distinguish a nation from other nations. This
is why scholars of Islam disliked that Alláh is called in Du 'á in the
prayer using any other language than Arabic.
Alláh has chosen Arabic to be the language of His Book and to be the
mother tongue of the Last and Final Prophet and Messenger. Speaking
ofien in a language other than Arabic, which as we stated is the
symbol of Islam and the language of the Qur 'án, directs to imitating
non-Muslims and ignoring Arabic. We should also assert that learning
Arabic is required in our religion, since it is the language of the
Qur'án and Sunnah. Proper understanding of these resources ofIslam
requires knowledge in Arabic, for the means and ways to perform an
obligation in the religion are obligations themselves.
Furthermore, Muslims can speak languages other than Arabic when
there is a need to do so. Otherwise, they should converse with each
other using the language of the Qur' ano It is a cause for sadness and
sorrow that in many lands and official departments in the Muslim
Contradicting Disbelievers is a Requirement ofIslam 195

world, you would find the official language used to be other than
Arabic, as ifyou were living in Europe!
Another example is that Muslims imitate sorne acts of worship of
disbelievers that contain Shirk, such as erecting monuments on graves
and building around them. The Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
~ J- J-",,- ,... ," /", J"­
. ((~G ~t;\ Jj;; 1).1.>.;\ 0JWIJ :..*1 1JS- ,...tI 8J))

"May Alláli's curse descend on the Jews and Christians, they

turned the gravesites of their Prophets to mosques (places of
worship)."
The Prophet ~ stated that whenever righteous men died, they used to
build places of worship around their graves and made pictures in their
images. He stated that they are the worst among Alláh' s creation! Yet,
this particular type of Shirk has occurred in this Ummah, because of
going to the extreme regarding graves and the dead; an evil that has
become so widespread and a common practice, because of imitating
Jews and Christians.
Another example occurs when Muslims imitate the evil religious
practices ofnon-Muslims, such as the acts of Shirk and innovation that
occur while celebrating the Prophet's birthday and the birthdays of
leaders and noted chiefs. These celebrations or 'holidays' inelude
National Days, Mother's Day, Cleanliness Week, and so forth among
the holidays and anniversaries that Muslims imported from
disbe1ievers. In Islam we have only two holidays, 'Eidul-Fitr and
'Eidul Adhha. Celebrating on other than these two days, IS an
innovation and an act of imitating disbelievers.
Therefore, Muslims ought to be aware of these facts and not be
deceived by the large number of Muslims who are truly ignorant in
Islam and thus fall iota these and other evil acts due to their
heedlessness and foolishness. Or they might not be ignorant, but still
intend to commit these acts knowingly, thus making the disaster even
more enormous.
Contradicting Disbelievers is a Requirement ofIslam 196

"Indeed in the Messenger of Alláh (Muhammad j@) you have a

good example to follow for him who hopes for (the Meeting
with) Alláh and the Last Day, and remembers Alláh much."
(33:21i

1 Al-Khutab al-Minbariyyah, by Shaikh Salih Al-Fozan, vol. 1, p. 128

Lawful Healing Methods as Compared to false Superstition 197

Lawful Healing Methods as Compared to

False Superstition

AH the praises and thanks are for Alláh, to Whom belongs al! that is in
the heavens and all that is in the earth. His is all the praises and thanks
in the Hereafter, and He is the All- Wise, the All-Aware. 1 thank and
praise Him, for He is Worthy of all praise, and He is Able to do all
things. 1 bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except
Alláh Alone, without partners, and that Muhammad is His slave and
Messenger. O Alláh! Bestow Your best blessings and rnercy on Your
Prophet Muhammad, his progeny and Companions.
Alláh the Exalted said:
l[ .,- .....- ..... / ; .,; .... ,,)0 ;~...... -:: ~""',;' ",.. ",,,,. .1> ,J:".6" .....'
·A 0 91~\.;)Ü~;-.!.b.j_-....:...JJJyb YL:;41~~)\;~¡Ü\ ~.Jl.J ~

"And if Alláh touches you with harm, there is none who can
remove it but He; and if He intends any good for you, there is
none who can repel His Favour which He causes it to reach
whomsoever of His slaves He wills. And He is the Oft­
Forgiving, the Most Merciful." (10:107)
O Alláh's slaves! Bringing harm or benefit is only in the Hands of
Alláh and therefore, none among the crcation can avert any type of
harm that Alláh has intended for him or her. This, and all other matters
are Alláhs Domain Alone. Consequently, there is neíther need, nor
justification for anyone to seek anything other than Alláh to remove an
aft1iction, avert it before it strikes, or bring a type of good or cause it
to continue. Alláh Alone has power over such aspects, and thus, none
e1se is worthy of being invoked or sought for help in this regard, or
begged to remove hardships, or asked to repel afflictions.
O Muslims! Mankind is prone to fall il!, and in this case, Alláh has
commanded them to seek healing for illnesses that might touch them,
using only the lawful means and ways to remove the disease or relieve
Lawful Healing Methods as Compared to false Superstition 198

its severity. We were forbidden to use unlawful means and ways that
Alláh has disallowed for us; such unlawful ways wíll never avaíl, but
instead bring harm.
For instance, hanging lucky charms and beads around the necks of
children or animals, for the claimed purpose of repelling the evil eye
or to fend off an illness, are acts of Shirk (Polytheism) and reliance on
others beside Alláh. The Messenger :i forbade these superstitious acts
and stated that lucky charms and like methods, will only intensify the
disease and magnify the presence of evil!
What benefit would tying knots, collecting beads on a string, wearing
an iron ring on the hand or foot, magic spells or writing unintelligible
words bring? None. Rather, they will only bring harm, misguidance
and spoil the minds and pure nature:
((~\l;, \.:.)) : -
./ ,...-
r ~ ~ ~~
'"
.
el
..¿ ~?
..".
-
!.Si)
.".
lij -
,
~ J.?~( J(;
,..-" //

'1 ~b! ~)I)) : ~ Jli - ,-:",;J\ ~ JJ~ ~;. - ~I~I ~ : Jli

- - /

.((\~~m\.:. ,~~j~jJ~~
"
,G)'hil~) / /

"The Messenger of Alláh ~ once saw aman wearing an iron

ring around his hand and asked him, "What is this?" The man
said, "To repel Al-Wahinah," which was a common disease
among Arabs during that time. The Prophet ~ said, "Take it off
of your hand, for verily, it will only increase your weakness! If
you die while wearing it, you will never attain success."
The Messenger of Alláh ~ stated in this Hadith that wearing a ring or
a lucky charm will not prevent illness. On the contrary, it will
intensify the disease along with the weakness it brings to the body. He
also told that man that if he died while wearing that ring, he would
never attain success.
The Prophet ~ also said:
. (('.Y41 ~j 5Jj : ;;~J ~ ¿.;j ,'.:]'41 r)ú :~~"~~ Jk ¿';ll
Lawful Healing Methods as Compared to false Superstition 199

"Whoever hangs a Tamimah (lucky charm), then rnay Alláh

never complete his aim, and whoever wears a Wada 'ah (beads),
then may Alláh never allow him to rest."
In another narration the Prophet ~ said:
,... el -; "".../ ., ,...,... -;;;,.../ el ...­

. (d-..;.\..lO
J
~
• _
"\:'~'
¡y-'" ¿r ))
"Whoever wears a Tamimah, will have committed Shirk."
In these Ahadith, the Prophet ~ invoked Alláh against those who wear
beads and lucky charms for the purpose of bringing benefit or averting
harm. Therefore, they will never attain success in their aims, nor
acquire what they wished, nor taste calmness or comfort, but will
instead suffer from worry and depression, beca use they rely on other
than Alláh and defy the Messenger's command and way.
Once, a group of people carne to the Messenger ~ to swear their
allegiance to embrace Islam and he accepted their Bai'ah (oath of
allegiance) except for one mano When they asked the Messenger of
Alláh why he accepted the Bai'ah from them all except that man, he
said that he did so because that man was wearing a Tamimah (Iucky
charm). So the man inserted his hand inside his clothing, took the
lucky charm and tore it off. The Messenger accepted the Bai 'ah from
him, saying, "Whoever wears a Tamimah will have committed Shirk."
Further, when Hudhaifah «s- 1J¡1 ~/ visited an ill person and touched his
arm, he found a knot tied around it. He asked him, "What is this?" The
ill man said, "A Ruqyah (healer, or lucky charm) that was prescribed
to me." Hudhaifah «ss: 11~) tore the knot and said to him, "Ifyou died
whiJe wearing this, I would not have prayed the funeral prayer for
you."

Hudhaifah = 11 ~) admonished that ill man because he tied a piece of

rope around his arm believing that it is a cause and a method to repel
the illness, not that it actually heals just by wearing it. What about
those who wear lucky charms and beads believing that they
themselves avail?
Lawful Healing Mefhods as Compared fofalse Superstifion 200

As, Muslims, we are required to rely on Alláh Alone and before

anything else, then seek the lawful means and ways to repel harm or
heal illnesses. Every action, statement and creed that was not allowed
for us to indulge in, we are required to abandon and shun it. We are
required to raise our children to be righteous and to steer them away
from all types of superstitions and whims. We are required to rear
them to rely only on Alláh Alone and to nurture the pure nature that
Alláh created in them. This way, they will trust in Alláh Alone for
each and every thing, invoke Him Alone in times of affliction and
hardship and stay away from liars and sorcerers. If we apply this good
method, we will dissipate all types of evil creeds and statements and
erase them from our society, while preserving our good nature from
misguidance and superstitious whims.
We should also assert that wearing a Tamimah that neither contains a
part of the Qurán, nor mentions Alláhs Name, is an act of Shirk.
Wearing a lucky charm that contains the Qur'án or Alláhs Names, is
a disallowed act because the Prophet ~ forbade wearing the Tamimah,
regard less of what is written inside it. Moreover, the habit of wearing
the latter type of Tamimah might direct to Shirk and writing
something other than the Qur'án in it later on. Also, when the Qur'án
is hung around one's neck, it will be taken into the bathroom and dirty
places, along with the person who is wearing it.
Surely, the Qur'án was not revealed for the purpose of being hung
around one's neck, but as a healer for the iIIs ofthe hearts. The Qur'án
was not revealed so that one makes Tamimah out of it, or sell
Tamimah that contains parts of it for money, thus acquiring a little
miserable sum for selling Alláh's Words.
I say this and invoke Alláh to forgive us all. Seek His forgiveness, for
verily, He is Oft-Forgiving, the Most MercifuI.!

I Ahadith Al-Minbar, by Shaikh Abdul-Aziz bin Abdullah bin Hasan Al­

Shaikh, p. 59
Chapter 3

The Acts

ofWorship

The Danger Disunity Poses fa Muslims 141

religion that ensures immunity from error, our life, in which is our
livelihood, and matters of our Hereafter, to which is our final retum.
Verily, Alláh is Most Generous, Most Compassionate. Seek His help,
O believers, and invoke Him for His forgiveness, for He is the Most
Forgiving, the Most Merciful.
The Impor(ance oi(he Prayer and (he reasoning behind... 203

The Importance of tbe Prayer and

tbe reasoning behind its Legislation
AII praise is for Alláh ~ who prescribed the prayers for his slaves with
great wisdom and solemn secrets. Furthermore, he made them be
amends for the minor sins that are committed in between them. 1 bear
witness that there is no God worthy of worship save Alláh Alone,
having no partners and endowed with greatness, might, and power. 1
also bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger, the
leader of the pure and pious, may peace and prayer be upon him, his
family, and his Companions.
O people! 1 exhort you to fear Alláh ~ and to learn about His great
wisdom behind the commandments by which He prescribed these
forms of worship and prohibited you from drawing close to the causes
of sin and wrongdoing. Alláh ~ did not command you to worship Him
beca use He needed you. He does not stand in need of anything in
existence. He commanded you to do so because you need Him! Your
life's affairs will not be straight, nor will your earthly and spiritual
matters, without relying on Him. Furthermore, the forms of worship
that Alláh ~ prescribed for you will make your bodies become
healthier and your hearts and souls to become more righteous. These
prayers benefit the individuals as well as the groups and nations. As
the hearts and souls become righteous, the bodies shall grow healthy
and good. In this regard the Prophet ~ said:
~', ~/"
:w ¿,:w Ij1J '.J.5 J..::.;J\ é:G ~ \j1 ~ 4\ '-:Í- 0tJ :Ji>l
./ .... ;' ",. J..- " .... ;:

.((< l~\ ~J:1t ~lli W\

"Indeed in the body, there is an organ; if it is well, the whole
body shall be we 11. Yet if it is diseased, the who le body shaIl be
diseased. Verily, it is the heart."
O people! You certainly are in need of your Lord, and are compelled
to be near to him! You cannot possibly do without Him! You could
never manage your life without Him, even for as short a time as the
The Impar/ance al/he Prayer and /he reasaning behind... 204

blink of the eye. So worship Him, thank Him and keep mention of
Him. He prescribed the forms of worship that would protect you and
draw you closer and closer to Him and for which you would deserve
the reward. He made the five prayers incumbent upon you in order to
purify and cleanse your heart from all wrongdoings. These prayers are
the links between the person and his Creator. They are also the
cleansing and purification ofthe person inwardly and outwardly.
When a person intends to pray, he purifies himself inwardly and
outwardly and stands in front of his Lord with peace and humility. He
shall not turn his head or his face away. His heart shall be connected
with Alláh and he shall be facing the house of AIHih. Thus, he is
directed towards his Lord physically and spiritually. At the same time,
he is reciting with contemplation what his Lord says of
commandments and prohibitions, as well as the best of stories that
carry within them lessons and admon ishment. Should a verse of merey
be recited, he would look forward to the favors and rewards of AIHih.
This would lead him to ask Him to bestow His merey and favors upon
him. Ifthen a verse ofwarning is recited, he becomes fearful oftorture
and seeks refuge with His Lord from punishment. After that he bows,
bending his back and lowering his head in glorification for AIHih ~.
He says and again repeats Subhana Rabbiyal Azeem: Far is my Lord,
the Almighty, from all imperfection. He says so while contemplating
the might of the one against which no difficulty can stand, the one to
whose glory all the foreheads are bowing and submitting. Thus, in the
process of prayer, the person glorifies Alláh 'E in his heart, with his
tongue and in the movements of his body. He glorifies his Lord with
his body and soul, adhering to His commandments and the
commandments of His Messenger ss.

,*b~~~~íj;"::\:6Jí~~ ,
"O you who have believed! Bow down, and prostrate
yourselves." (22:77)
And after this Áyah:
The Impor{ance 01 {he Prayer and {he reasoning behind... 205

"So glorify the Name ofyour Lord, the Most Great." (69:52)
The Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
" ,
. ((~..,5~ J lÁ~I))

"Say it in your Ruku' (while in the position of bowing)."

The worshiper then rises and stands erect. While standing, he praises
Alláh ~ and thanks him for His abundant favors and magnificent
attributes. Alláh ~ is indeed praiseworthy for every state man is in,
whether good or bad. Every creature in every tongue praises Alláh ~.
Thereafter, the worshiper prostrates putting his highest and most
regarded part of his body, his forehead, on the ground. His limbs,
hands, feet, and knees are all at one level on the ground-none is higher
than the other. On ly then does he remember and think of the one who
is always high and who is far away from being low, Alláh ~. He shall
then cal1 upon the name of Al- 'Alaa (the Most High). Alláh ~ is the
Most High in Himself and in His attributes. Alláh ~ is aboye
everything, His attributes are aboye all attributes; they are the most
perfecto For this, and for being so humble in front of Alláh ~, the
person shall be the closest to his Lord while prostrating. Therefore, it is
advised that he ask Alláh ~ for anything he wants. Explaining this, the
Prophet ~ said:
/' .,.. '" o'" ,/ /'

~~ 0i - c¿f ~i - ~ ~~iJI ~ ~ IJ~t; ~;¿JI ~iJ))

"
.((~
"In your sujud (while prostrating), increase your invocation to
Alláh, as it is worthy to be answered."
After this prostration and what it implicates of humility in front of
Alláh ~, the worshiper sits in a submissive manner, puts his palms on
his legs, and asks his Lord for forgiveness, merey and health. The
worshiper then continues to do the same deeds in his prayer, moving
from one position to another in a systemic manner until the end of the
prayer, thereupon he concludes his prayer by praising and glorifying
Alláh ~ with what befits him saying: "Greetings, prayers and purity
are all for Alláh." Then he offers Salam (peace) to the Prophet of
The Importance o/the Prayer and the reasoning behind... 206

Alláh and himself as well as to every pious slave of Alláh ~ who ever
existed in Heaven and Earth. After this, he recites the prayers and
blessings upon the Messenger of Alláh ~ and towards the end he asks
Alláh to give him refuge from harm in this world and in the hereafter.
He says: "1 seek refuge with Alláh from the punishment of Hell, the
torture of the grave, the temptation of this world, the trial of death and
the temptation and trial of the False Messiah." Thereafter, he is free to
ask Alláh ~ for anything he wishes.
When a Muslim prays, he travels through the gardens of worship. He
moves along from one position to another, be it standing, bowing,
sitting, or prostrating and says his prayers in these different positions.
He recites the word of Alláh ~ keeps mention of his names and asks
Him for everything he needs and wishes. Throughout all of this, his
heart is connected with his Lord. What could possibly be better than
this bounty? What state of being could be more solemn and pleasant?
For this, the prayer has become a joy for all of the believers and their
meadow of delight, For those who constantly keep remembrance of
their Lord, the prayer keeps their hearts alive! The prayer is thus
fruitful, for the great influence it has on the life of a Muslim. Thus, the
person will come out with a different heart from that which he entered
the prayer with. His heart will be full of light and happiness, delighted
and full of joyo His heart will also be open to Islam and inclined to the
good and, on the other hand, despising the evil. In this regard, Alláh ~
says:
~pr;~í--:;~~j~lí¿~~
"Verily, As-Saldt (the prayer) prevents from Al-Fahshá' (i.e.
great sins of every kind, unlawful sexual intercourse) and
Al-Munkar (Le. disbelief, polytheism, and every kind of evil
wicked deed)." (29:45)
With such consequences and deeds of this kind, worship is worth
making great efforts to accomplish, and should become the aim of our
sight and the issue of our thoughts.
We ask Alláh ~ to help us all keep remembering Hirn, praising Him,
The Importance oithe Prayer and the reasoning behind... 207

and worshipping Him correctly, and to give us refuge frorn the devil's
whisperings and to help us reject him. We finally ask Him to make us
fulfill the meaning of this verse:
4; ..... ~' .... ~ . . . ~4.,1 "'./"1,,.. ... "..../,,1 / / . . . . . .
~~.ul \ ,.g ')''1 ;~, ..:.,' 1......·.'11:.. i -\. " ... "

..;; ;;~...T'J ',y ... ~;~4J*"'~

"Guard strictly (five obligatory) As-Salawát (the prayers)

especially the middle Salát (i.e., the best prayer - 'Asr)." (2:238)
Humility in (he Prayer 208

Humility in the Prayer

All praise is for Alláh ~, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessing of
Alláh be on the Finality of the Prophets, his family, his Companions
and those who followed in their footsteps until the Day of
Recompense. 1 bear witness that there is no God worthy of worship
save Alláh ~ Alone, having no partners. 1 also bear witness that
Muhammad is His slave and Messenger, the Imam of all the
Messengers, the Seal of the Prophets, and the leader of the humble
ones. May peace and prayers be upon him, his family, Companions,
and those who follow his message and call to it until the Day of D
Recompense.
Oh believers! Many people inquire about humility in the prayer and
how to achieve it. On this 1 wilI relate to you one ofthe saying of sorne
early Muslim scholars. Anyone who contemplates it, and tries to
practice it wilI, Alláh wilIing, be among those who atta in humility and
peace in prayer.
Ibn Al-Qayyiml ás <r J had said:
The pleasure which a person whose heart is filIed with love for Alláh
~, fear from Him, and glorification of Him, can feel in his prayer, is
certainly not like that which a person whose heart is empty and ruined
feels. When the first person stands in the prayer, he does so with a
tranquil and humble heart, an intact heart that is free of the evil's
discrepancies. He wilI witness with every part of his body the awe of
the situation as the light offaith penetrates him, which will remove the
barriers of his soul and the smoke of his whims. This wilI prepare him
to enjoy the meanings of the Qur'án. His heart wilI be mingled with
the happiness caused by the belief in the facts of Alláh's ~ beautiful
names and attribute. His heart wilI feel their sublimity, perfection,
beauty and greatness and the faith in Alláh ~ who with his perfect
attributes, is unrivaled. This person gathered all of his thoughts and

1 Kitab us-Salah, by Ibn Al-Qayyim,

 Humility in the Prayer 209

attention to only think of Alliih~, thereby he felt the pleasure ofbeing

close to Him. Such nearness shall have no equal; the heart entirely
resorts to Him. The Lord ~ has drawn close to His servant at first,
upon which the servant is pulled with his heart to his Lord. Then the
Lord ~ again draws nearer and nearer which makes his servant feel
the completeness of his happiness.
Here we point out a marvel of Alláh's beautiful Names and Attributes
that only occurs to the one whose heart is indulged in understanding
and thus experiencing the meanings of the Qur'án, This marvel is for
the heart that is mingled with the belief in these names and attributes.
The heart shall then observe a position for those names and attributes
in the prayer, when standing in front of Alláh ~. The heart shall
I observe Alláh's eternity and when saying "Alláhu Akbar" (Alláh is the
Greatest) the heart shall witness Alláh 's Majesty.
When he says: "You are Glorified, O Alláh, and praised; Your Name is
blessed; Your Majesty is exalted, and none has the right to be
worshipped save You", he witnesses with his heart that his Lord ~ is
free of deficiency, intact of all imperfection and praised with every
praise. Praising Him includes ascribing for Him all perfection and also
entails His being free of imperfection. His Name is blessed, so the
mention thereof makes the small amount increase, the good increase
and be blessed, the harm shrink and vanish, Satan be an outcast and
humiliated. The perfection of the name stems from the perfection of
the named. Moreover, if the name is so perfect that when mentioned by
anyone, nothing on earth or in the heavens can harm him, what about
the one who has that name?
"Your Majesty is exalted" is the literal meaning of Ta 'ala Jadduka.
Alláh's Majesty is exalted. His Greatness and Stature are high aboye
all powers and statures. His Sovereignty overpowered all other
sovereignties. His Majesty is Exalted, so He shall have no partners to
share with Him in His domination, Lordship, Godship, actions, or
attributes. In this regard, Alláh ~ says (relating what a believer from
the jinn said):
Humility in the Prayer 210

"And He, exalted be the Majesty of our Lord, has taken neither a
wife nor a son (or offspring or children)." (72:3)
How effective these words are on the heart of the one who understands
them, and never denies their reality and truth regarding Alláhs Names
and attributes.

When a worshipper says: "1 seek refuge with Alláh from Satan the
outcast", he resorts to Alláh ~, seeking His protection and fortified
shield against the enemy whose sole goal is to sever his bond with
Alláh and keep him away from his Lord's path. His enemy wants him
to end up in the worst position he could ever be.
When a worshipper recites:
/' ./ ...... .., .. ./ ./ j.. /'-'"

~~\'::'J~~\~
"All the praises and thanks be to Alláh, the Lord ofthe 'Aalamin
(mankind, jinn and all that exists)." (1 :2)
He shall pause for a moment. Then Alláh says:
((l>~ .~»)
• • »Ó» ~ /

"My slave has praised Me."

When the worshipper recites:

~~_~í ¡.;!)í ~
"The Most Gracious, the Most Merciful ." (1 :3)
Alláh ~ replies:
• ((l:?~ ~ .)1))
"My slave commended Me."
When he recites:
~4~í~;~~
"The Only Owner (and the Only Ruling Judge) of the Day of
Recompense (i.e., the Day of Resurrection)." (1:4)
Humility in the Prayer 211

Alláh says:
'((LS~~~))
. ­
"My slave has glorified and exalted Me."
What a pleasure of the heart, delight of the eye and joy of the soul to
know that Alláh calls you "my slave" three times. By Alláh! If the
hearts were not covered with the smoke of desires, they would be
carried away with joy when they realize that Alláh answers the prayer
of every man directly saying: "My slave has praised Me", "My slave
has commended me" and "My slave has glorified Me".
Thus the heart will witness within the impact of these three Names of
Alláh ~: Alláh, Ar-Rab (The Lord), and Ar-Rahman (The Gracious).
The heart shall witness the truth about the God who is the only one that
deserves to be worshipped, feared and adored. AH creatures have
submitted and surrendered to Him. AH of them have worshipped Him
with humility in every tongue and language. AH the seven heavens and
earth along with everything they carry within and in between glorifies
Alláh ~ and praises Him. In this regard Alláh ~ says:
""-./,' -; >~>~L 1.<. '\i-\'(\/~(, . / -r- ).
~ uy? ,"-1 ~ '-t'..J J .') y~ -J 0'","'!J r
"To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and the earth. AH
are obedient to Him." (30:26)
Alláh ~ created the heavens and earth as well as everything in
existence between them. He created man, jinn, the birds, the animals,
Paradise and Hellfire. He sent the Messengers and revealed the books
down to the Messengers. Hence, He established the religion and the
laws of this life. He further made it obligatory upon His servants to
abide by His commandments and keep away from His prohibitions.
The worshipper shall realize the meaning of Alláhs beautiful Name,
(AI-Qayyoum) the Eternal and the Self-Existent, when he mentions the
Name of Alláh, Rabbil- 'Alamin (The Lord of man, jinn, and the whole
universe). Man should realize and witness through his heart that Alláh
was the only one in existence before anything had ever been created.
He looks after every creature and soul regardless of being good or
Humility in the Prayer 212

wicked. Alláh Alone Istawa (raised) over the Throne, manages the
affairs of the whole universe and more. He decrees what happens in
this world and in other worlds. He decides whom to give and whom to
deprive, whom to elevate and whom to put down, whom to give life to
and whom to take life from, whom to accept and whom to expel,
whom to relieve and whom to afflict. Moreover He is the One that
answers the prayer and cry of the afflicted, and accepts the penance of
the penitent. He decrees all ofthat and the angels execute.
dÍ t-:' .>» .... .:;~ ~ ~ ....... ,......... ... Yo......
~
"'(~":'¡.}~1~,y ~)tGY~\~.J4 ,~_ r
"Whosoever is in the heavens and on earth begs of Him (its
needs from Him). Every day He is (engaged) in sorne affair
(such as giving honor or disgrace to sorne, life or death to
sorne." (55:29)
None can prevent what he has willed to bestow and none can bestow
what he has willed to prevent. None can follow up on His Judgement,
none can hinder His Decree and none can change His Words. The
angels along with the Archangel, Jibreel, rise to Him submitting the
deeds of His servants in the moming and the evening. Thus he sets the
pre-ordainments and the times thereof, then matches those pre­
ordainments with their times. He manages all these matters and
safeguards them as well.
Upon mentioning the Name of Alláh ~, Ar-Rahman, the worshipper
bears witness that Alláh [Ar-Rahman] is the Gracious Lord, who is
benevolent with His creatures man, jinn, and others. He ~ is the
Compassionate, Whose Merey and Knowledge comprehend
everything. His favors and bounties reach every living creature. His
Merey and Compassion reach as far as His Knowledge does. With
merey and compassion, Alláh created the creation, revealed down His
Books, sent His Messengers, established His laws and rules and
created Paradise. Even the Pire of Hell was created upon Alláh's
Merey and Compassion. It is His lash by which He drives His servants
amongst the believers to Paradise, cleanses His servants amongst the
wrongdoers from their filthy sins and in it He imprisons His enemies
who defy Him.
Humility in the Prayer 213

One must eontemplate the eneompassing merey and perfeet favor

eontained in Alláh's eommandments, prohibitions, ordainment and
adviee. Merey is the bond that originates from Alláh ~ and reaehes
His slaves, while slavery originates from them and reaehes Alláh ~.
Therefore, from them originates slavery and from Him originates
merey.
1 seek refuge with Alláh ~ from Satan, the outeast. Alláh ~ says:

{4íWi'T)i~;\G\:)íí~»~~ ~
"Do they not then think deeply in the Qurán, or are their hearts
loeked up (from understanding it)7" (47 :24)
May Alláh ~ bless us all with His Book and benefit us with its Ayat
and wisdom. By this, 1 eonclude my speeeh and ask Alláh ~ to forgive
all of our wrongdoing. Seek His forgiveness as He is the All­
Forgiving, Most Mereifu1.
Issues and Rulings Related to the Prayer 214

Issues and Rulings Related to the Prayer

All praise is for Alláh ~ Who promised those who are steadfast in
their prayers a great reward, and prepared for them the gardens of
Paradise-an everlasting bounty.
1 bear witness that there is no God worthy of worship save Alláh ~
Alone, having no partners. So praise your Lord, the Most Generous,
the Most Merciful. 1 also testify that Muhammad ~ is the Messenger
and servant of Alláh ~, and the best man that ever prayed, and he is
the leader of all the righteous ones.
O people! Fear Alláh ~, and be steadfast in your prayers, observe
them on Fridays and in congregation. Do not abandon or neglect them.
If you do, you will be exposing yourselves to destruction. Alláh ~
says:
-r r
...i...'//·.. . ·//.//.6I:,t· ..... :(·>/-;,~////~O> . . . iJ.·/
~ ,,uN'''

",L;-'-uAJy-!y~\~~ OP\IrL.,..I~·~~~uJi.r
"Then, there has succeeded them a posterity who have given up
As-Saldt (the prayers) [i.e. made their Salát (prayers) to be lost,
either by not offering them or by not offering them perfectly or
by not offering them in their proper fixed times] and have
followed lusts. So they will be thrown in Hell." (19:59)
Whoever abandons the prayer and does not repent will be thrown into
Ghaii in this life and the Hereafter. Ghaii is the plain loss. Ibn Masud
~ further explained the meaning of Ghaii by saying:

"Al-Ghaii is a very deep valley in Hell that has an offensive taste."

Whoever is steadfast in the prayer shall thank Alláh ~ for this favor
and ask Him to keep him firm on it. On the other hand, those who are
negligent of their prayers should repent immediately and return to
Alláh ~ before it is too late. That is when their hearts are misguided
and are leading them to their destruction.
You keep the prayer by rightly fulfilling its prerequisites, establ ishing
its pillars, and performing both the obligatory and optional actions.
Issues and Rulings Related to the Prayer 215

When one intends to pray, one must perform the Wudu (ablution)
correctly and face the Qibla (the direction of the Ka'bah). Facing the
Qibla is mandatory. Alláh ~ said:
..} ;' » »
~~J!yj9~
r"( ..
"~r ~~ ~ (~i\ ~\ ,(,.. -;\-:~ J"'-:- ¿;..-r
• :J~!f'J,;- ~-r:'"J)~.:r
¿:;;'
_ ~j
.. ~
T
"

~J~
"And from wherever you start forth (for prayers), tum your face
in the direction of Al-Masjid Al-Harám (at Makkah), and
wherever you are, tum your faces towards it (when you pray)."
(2: ISO)
In a standing position, the worshiper starts the prayer by saying: Alláhu
Akbar (Alláh is Greatest). Then he recites the opening supplication,
which could be any one of a few narrations that were authentically
transmitted from the Prophet ~. Thereafter, he recites Al-Fatiha (the
first chapter of the Qur'án.) Reciting Al-Fatiha is also mandatory;
without it the prayer is invalido It is obligatory upon the Imam (the
leader of the people in prayer) and upon the persons who follow him,
as well as anyone praying alone. The Hadith that was narrated
regarding this has a general meaning to the effect that reciting Al­
Fatiha (The Opening Chapter) is obligatory upon every person
whether the Imam, the follower, or when praying alone. Other Ahadith
(recorded traditions or sayings of the Prophet ~) that excIude the
followers from the obligation were narrated, but were proven to be
unauthentic. The Imam should, therefore, pay attention to this and
recite Al-Fdtihah slowly so that the followers may be able to recite it
after them.
After reciting Al-Fátihah, the Muslim may recite sorne verses of the
Qur'án. For instance, he may read from the short detailed chapters at
the evening prayer (Maghrib), though he may also read other than the
short chapters sometimes. It was reported that the Prophet ~ had read
Al-Araf, Muhammad, Al-Toar, and Al-Mursalaat at the evening prayer.
The Imam leading the prayers must not deliberately intend to make the
prayer difficult on his followers by making it long. At the moming
(Fajr) prayer, the Imam may read from long detailed chapters. At the
Issues and Rulings Related to the Prayer 216

noon prayer and the aftemoon prayer, and the night prayers he may
read medium chapters; however, the noon prayer could be a little
longer than the aftemoon prayer. After the recitation, he bows and
while in this position he says: "Subhana Rabbiyal Azeem" (far is our
Almighty Lord from imperfection.) He should say this once, but it is
better to repeat it at least three times. Thereafter, he rises while saying:
"Sami' Alláhu Liman Hamidah" (AIHih listens to those who praise
him.) At the standing position, both the Imam and his followers say:
"Rabbana wa Lakal-Hamd" (O our Lord! For You is all praise.) The
follower shall not repeat Sami' Alláhu Liman Hamidah as the Prophet
J3 said:
-W J/ 8)/ : lí ~ ~~ ~ / \~4ÍlI ~ _ ;L;~I\ . .;;:; - J~ I~~)) : ~ J~
. ..Y.r- '" ~ \...../ \ f< f...?---" !:
~ e
.((~I

" ... and when he (Le., the Imam) says: "Sami' Alláhu Liman
Hamidah, " you say: "Rabbanna wa Lakal-Hamd. "
After that, the worshiper prostrates laying seven of his body parts and
limbs on the ground: the forehead and the nose together, the palms, the
knees, and the toes. He should not lift his feet from the ground, nor his
nose, nor any other body parto Moreover, he should not lay his
forehead on his palm on the ground. However, it is permissible to have
a rug or a cloth between the forehead and the ground, so long as such
is not connected to him, such as, for example, his garment or scarf.
This is not preferred or allowed except if necessary. In the prostration
position, he should say: "Subhana Rabbiyal Al-Aa 'la (far is our Lord
the Most High from any imperfection.) He should not recite Qur'án
while bowing or prostrating, as Ibn Abbas l...p 1\ ~) said:
~~~..,.:JJJ):.:JI ~ ~I ,/ .;:s- - \~+:~
.......
4Íl1:r"J -
.. .....
'-'""~ ~I J~
f/I

u'l~ \~ 1\)) : JW .T".

¿.~ If.i.::.J;..:J.y-p
",.......
~ ~ cr
~ L~WJ /w'::"'L;
_/
.DI ~// .
....... / ..... .r d.......

-S
W~I L:;"~ 11 '11 t/~II •.::.k ";./~ ~
/ _J'y ~ /r.-' / .r-:-" ~ ~
/.'/
r'.í ~¿I~ _ •.,.r
::..'¡'/ ~5ú _/- :1;.
. (l\~L:..:,t ~I) ~í~1 r:-ir 0r /- _~; J.G '11 .~J -s7:,t ~I t,;,\:i.
"The Prophet ~ had lifted the curtain and his head was wrapped
Issues and Rulings Related to the Prayer 217

during the sickness he died from, while the people were standing
in rows behind Abu Bakr .es- }J¡\ "";'.J. Thereupon he said: 'o Alláh,
have 1 conveyed (the message)?' He repeated this three times
and then said: 'Verily, nothing ofthe prophecy has remained but
a good dream seen by a Muslim or seen about him. Verily, 1
have been forbidden to recite Qur' án while bowing or
prostrating.' "
'Ali .es- }J¡\ "";'.J also said:
"The Messenger of Alláh ~ has forbidden me to recite Qur' án
while bowing or prostrating."
However, if he reads a Verse of the Qur'án that is also a supplication
in his prostration as a Duá', but not for the purpose of reciting Qur'án,
then this will be permitted. For instance one may read:
Á
'-:.
8í.:::',~(j~tS;~u
• /J
~ ~~~t:t\.-GI.. í/.:'
..7....r-;:-
• ~.J r
~

"Our Lord! We have indeed believed, so forgive us our sins and

save us from the punishment of the Fire."
This can be recited as an invocation but not as if he is reciting Qur'án,
After prostration he sits and says: "Oh Alláh, forgive me, have merey
on me, guide me, give me health and provide for me." Then he
prostrates again and does all that throughout his prayer.
There is also another very important aspect of the prayer; that is
tranquility. A Muslim must perform all the acts, movements, and
sayings of the prayer with the feeling of tranquility and peace at every
position. The prayer is invalid if performed quickly without peace and
tranquility. I
1 seek refuge with Alláh from Satan, the outcast:

~0;;'.Jr~lj j~í~);~íL$(~~í ~lí~l;,

"And perform As-Salát (lqámat-as-Salát), and give Zakát and
obey the Messenger (Muhammad ~) that you may receive

Ad-Diya Al-Lami, by Shaikh Muharnrnad Al-Uthayrnin, p. 141

Issues and Rulings Related to the Prayer 218

merey (from AWih ~)." (24:56)

May AIHih give us blessing in the great Qur'án and benefit us with its
verses and wisdom. With this 1 eonclude my speeeh and ask Alláh to
forgive you, all the Muslims, and me for our sins. Ask Him for
forgiveness, for He is indeed the All-Forgiving and All-Merciful.
The Prostration offorgetfulness 219

Tbe Prostration of Forgetfulness

All praise is for Alláh; we praise Him, seek His help, ask for His
forgiveness and repent to Him. We also seek refuge with Him from the
wickedness of ourselves and the evil of our actions and deeds.
Whomsoever Alláh ~ guides, none can mislead and whomsoever
Alláh ~ misguides, none can guide.
1 testify that there is no God worthy of worship save Alláh ~ Alone,
having no partners. 1 also testify that Muhammad ~ is His Messenger
and slave. May peace and prayers be upon Him, his family, his
Companions and those who follow his guidance. 1 proceed, O people:
Fear Alláh ~, the Most High, and learn your religion! Know the
boundaries of what Alláh ~ has revealed to His Messenger ;i! As the
Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
" ... when Alláh wishes good for anyone, He instructs him in the
understanding of religion."
y ou must know that sorne of the most important things to learn are the
issues and rulings related to the prayer, the second pillar of Islam and
the core of the religion. Many Muslims know little about Sujud as­
Sahw (the prostration for forgetfulness) so they tend to make too many
errors in their prayers in this regard. There are cases and certain non­
deliberate errors in the prayer that call for the prostration for
forgetfulness. These can be categorized in three situations: adding
something to the prayer, subtracting something from it, or having
doubt regarding a part ofthe prayer. When a Muslim adds to any ofthe
positions of the prayer, be it bowing, prostrating, standing, or even a
whole Rak'ah (unit ofprayer), then it becomes incumbent upon him to
perform the prostration for forgetfulness after the Salam (completion
of the prayer); one is to prostrate twice after the Salam. This occurred
at the time of the Prophet ~ as Ibn Masood <.:.<-1\ ~.J narrated:
~) :~J ~ ~ ~\ ~ &!JI J.:, :~~.&I ~~ :~ ~I J¡j
"" .::;; J ...­
~~ ~~ ~ • ~.::..;.G : I)¡j ~ dE ~J : J¡j ~;;~\ ¡)
.... "", ; ""
The Prostration offorgetfulness 220
.,
.(-L
"The Messenger of Alláh ~ [once] prayed the Noon prayer five
[Rak'at]. Upon that he was asked whether another Rak'ah was
added to the prayer. The Prophet replied: "What happened?"
They said: "You have prayed five Rak'át. " Then the Prophet ~
prostrated twice after the Salam. "
It is important to note that when a Muslim realizes that he has added a
Rak 'ah to the prayer forgetful1y while he is still praying, he must stop
and return back to his last position before this addition. He must stil1
perform Sujud as-Sahw [prostration for forgetfulness].
If the Musalli (the Muslim who is praying) performs Salám
unintentional1y and forgetful1y before the prayer is completed and after
a short time he remembers what he did wrong, then it wil1 be
incumbent upon him to complete his prayer and perform Sujud as­
Sahw after Salám. Abu Hurraira ~ narrated that:
;"'" ~ .....s.-' ~ JO" -¡;: J '"' ..... ,.,­
'...3L, ~ ," . L; .: 1:'" ." . <':(' "~:I\ \ ,o.(:t¡ ,
~' rr":
I'~ ~ .,
r- r-' ~ J .;----' ~ .ft""-' ~....r-- ~J I...f':;
JI ~1
,)
'..: J ..... ..... ..... J -;; jo "" -;; ",,"­

·(-L~-?~~~~~~~~0~~)r~
,(¿}
"The Prophet ~ had prayed the Noon prayer, or the Afternoon
prayer, two Rak 'át then performed Salám. The people then
informed him, upon which he ~ proceeded and completed his
prayer and then prostrated twice after Salam. He also said Salam
after completing the two prostrations."
However, if a long time has passed, or the person has lost his purity
(meaning he needs another ablution) before remembering what he did
wrong, then he will have to repeat his prayer as ifhe did not pray. This
is because he should not base the last part ofthe prayer on the first part
being separated by a long time or by null ification of purity.
As for the lacking of a part of the prayer, the Musalli must make up for
that part by performing Sujud as-Sahw before he ends it. If he forgets
the first Tashahhud (the sitting position after the completion of the
second Rak'ahi, and stands up after completing the second Rak'ah, he
must proceed in his prayer then perform Sujud as-Sahw before Salám.
The Prostration offorgetfulness 221

"Abdullah bin Buheinah ~ 1\ ~ J narrated that the Messenger of

Alláh ~ [once] rose up standing after the second Rak 'ah without
sitting for the recitation of the Tashahhud. The people tried to
call his attention by saying (Subhán Alláh), yet he ~ proceeded
in his prayer, and prostrated twice before concluding the prayer
with Salám" (Agreed upon)
The same may be applied if a person forgets to say 'Subhana Rabbiya
al- 'Azeem' while bowing, 'Subhana Rabiyyal-A 'la while prostrating,
or any ofthe Takbir (saying Alláhu Akbar) save the opening Takbir.
If a person doubts how many Rak'át he has completed-three or four­
and cannot determine the correct number, he must consider the lesser
number and complete his prayer accordingly. Then perform the
prostration for forgetfulness before ending his prayer. The Prophet ~
said:
IJ 0,..- .......... "'.......... .;;;;..... ..... 1> .......... ..... ,.... J ~ ,.... -; .;;;;"'" ,....

,_/,kJj~'i'i~~ \_~ ...G'~l. ¡~~ • ~..l.>-\ct.;,\~.I))

(,_~ - .J i ~ I ! -\ // '-1:- I /

u:L5 '-:)~• ¡íJ/~_uq i..J7

/
/1'; .'-::::b...::., ~ ~{ ¡~-::<' I ~
r:.r-'. . • r-' ~
/
í;: .'+ á~l\
!J"'" (.)'7::'.)
/

~,-:: 8L5 ~J
/,\) ~~\ 1/- ~L5 ~\/ ~¡;~~J ~,-:/. ~ 1/­
-/..1 ~ ~ kJ ~ ~
-
"If one of you becomes uncertain while praying as to how many
[Rak'át] he has completed, three or four, he should cast aside his
doubt and base his prayer on what he is certain of, then perform
two Sajdah [for forgetfulness] before he concludes his prayer
with Salám. If he has prayed five Rak'át, this will complete his
prayer, and if he has prayed exactly four, it will be humiliation
for the devil."
However, if he positively determines the correct number, he may
complete his prayer according to this decision and then perform Sujud
The Prostration offorgetfulness 222

as-Sahw after the Salám. Ibn Masood ~ narrated that the Prophet ~
said:
. - t' ;{ i¿,-
~l'~":; ; { íJ..:-~ ~ 1j ,.::..1' ;-11 ; .> \~.(j~ . ~.b-1lG l~ \»
- t' ,- ..J'+""' ~" -i \ ~
((.o::~
. rJ;:' .

"If anyone of you is uncertain about his prayer (how much he

has prayed), he should strive to achieve certainty, then complete
his prayer accordingly and prostrate twice after Salam."
By this, we may conclude that Sujud as-Sahw can be performed before
the end of the prayer or after. There are three cases for which Sujud as­
Sahw is done after the Salam.
The first, is when something is added to the prayer;
The second, is when a person ends the prayer before it is completed,
which may also be considered an addition; and the third is when a
person has doubt about how much has been completed ofthe prayer. In
all other cases, Sujud as-Sahw must be done before ending the prayer.
Unfortunately, many people disapprove performing Sujud as-Sahw
after Saláms and consider it weird, because they are not acquainted
with the correct teachings about it. Sorne scholars regard both practices
to be mandatory where one cannot substitute for the other. The
responsibility lies with the Imams to teach the people the true teachings
of Islam and the Sunnah of the Prophet ~. It would be more pathetic if
the Imams themselves know nothing about this ruling, thinking that all
forms and cases of forgetfulness can be amended by performing the
Sujud as-Sahw before Salam. To our surprise, sorne Imams know the
ruling and the correct teaching in this regard, but they choose not to
apply such because they do not want to cause confusion amongst their
followers, so they sayo This is not a genuine excuse for which one
abandons a prophetic order and decree. The right thing to do here is to
teach and practice the Sunnah of the Prophet :1, which in this case,
implies performing Sujud as-Sahw after the Salám if the case calls for
it, so that people may have the opportunity to leam the Sunnah and
understand its application. Ibis will definitely remove all kinds of
The Prostration offorgetfulness 223

confusion and cause the people to be rewarded for practicing the

Sunnah.
?(",:í-: .... ~,.,,., '>4=:a...l..1. &lí «-:> :>~.i~'" /("'1 ~ ~í i../:k
(""-::"'" Y -'"7.J r " ~ -,., ...r-" ¡---;;--..J r--' ".' .". !/'-"
5~
» -:,/ 6iíí:u J/
, . ' "

" .;!.J I
:b:~
_
~~'
. .r'..
l.;
,:Ji .L"
.Yo ~í'"J O ~
"
~ _,
,\~ ~í'"J
"

»>. "J ; ' »> ;~.-:: -; -:-:,;. t "-:í.Jo,.,. \$ t ..... ? .... 1l.J. -: "f :"''."1('
~;j\ ~J r'~~.J1 4.ll ~j.. O~ ~ ~ 0\ y~\

~\~- ::.
"AIHlh wishes to make clear (what is lawful and what is
unlawful) to you, and to show you the ways ofthose before you,
and accept your repentance and Alláh is All-Knower, All-Wise.
Alláh wishes to accept your repentance, but those who follow
their lusts, wish that you (believers) should deviate
tremendously away (from the Right Path). Alláh wishes to
lighten (the burden) for you; and man was created weak (cannot
be patient to leave sexual intercourse with woman)." (4:26-28)
O Alláh! Gather the hearts of the Muslims and cause them to cling to
Your Book and the Sunnah of Your Prophet :i! Unite them in
obedience to You! Give them the blessing of Your Book and the
understanding ofYour Prophet's Sunnah. Verily You are Most capable
to do whatever You will.
Alláh commands justice, the doing of good, and giving to kith and kin,
and He forbids all indecent behavior, evil and aggression. He instructs
you, so that you may be admonished. So keep remembrance of Alláh
the Almighty, the Most High and Exalted, and He shall remember you.
Thank Him for His endless favors and He shall provide you with more.
Verily, remembering Him is the greatest (thing) Alláh ~ is well
acquainted with all that you do.
Friday Prayer: The Wisdom behind it and... 224

Friday Prayer: The Wisdom behind it and

the exhortation for the people to Attend it

AH praise is due to AH<1h ~ Who has guided us to Islam. Had He not

guided us, we would never have been guided. I praise Him thank Him
~ for His sweet favors and hard afflictions. I further repent to Him
and seek His forgiveness. I bear witness that there is no god worthy of
worship exeept Alláh Alone having no partners. I also bear witness
that Muhammad ~ is His servant and Messenger, may the peaee and
blessings, of Alláh ~ be upon him, his family, his Companions, and
everyone that follows His guidanee until the Day ofReekoning.
O servants of Alláh! Fear Alláh ~ and be aware ofthe faet that Islam D
has elarified and explained every matter in this life and the Hereafter
by showing us their basies and details. One of the many advantages of
Islam is that it made the Friday eongregational prayer obligatory upon
every Muslim exeept women, ehildren, slaves, travelers, and siek
people. This noble day and solemn oeeasion is said to be the best day
of the week. Adam ~\ was ereated, plaeed in Paradise, and expelled
from Paradise on a Friday. Judgement Day will begin on a Friday as
well. AIso, on Friday there is an hour during whieh if any Muslim asks
Alláh ~ for something while praying, his prayer will be answered. The
nations before us were given the ehanee to ehoose this day as their
saered day - yet the Muslims were guided to ehoose it. So praise your
Lord and fulfill on that Day what He has eommanded you to fulfill. In
regard to this, Alláh ~ says:

~~ííV~~~íI~j~J;':~ ~
"Come to the remembranee of Alláh [Jumu 'ah religious talk

(Khutbah) and Salát (prayer)] and leave off business (and every

other thing)."(62:9)

The meaning of aspiring for the remembranee of Alláh ~ here is to be

eoneerned about the Friday prayer and what it entails as well as to
approaeh it with humility and tranquillity. Do not ignore it or be lazy
 Friday Prayer: The Wisdom behind it and... 225

in perfonning it lest it cause your hearts to be sealed after which you

will never be happy. In this regard, the Prophet ~ said:
J J;...... ..... ..... o .......­

~ ,~}j .fi- '.&1 ~ ji ~~\ ~;J ¿;. r\:";í :"={J))

.....o J J .....
. ((~ \~WI ~ :: .C"/\
~ ~ ,y.Y"::"
"Sorne people should stop neglecting Friday prayers, or Alláh
will seal their hearts, and they will thus be among the heedless
ones."
He ~ also wamed:
((0 ~'.&I ¿ G-!~ r ~-)ú~;~))
"Alláh will seal the heart of the man, who does not pray three
Friday prayers out of negligence."
1
O servants of Alláh! On this blessed day, Alláh ~ has prescribed
forms of worship that train and purify the soul, refine the faith, erase
the sins, and strengthen the ties amongst you. The Messenger of Alláh
~ said:

~ // '1 ~
~ J ~J:;J '~~
Ó// '.e. '. /e1[;>.\ ~ ~gí:-~/.J ;;:~\
/
"I~/ ~.::.;.~ '1))
. i Yo u; J / •
/0/

/"C'~
jo ~
\/_~Ó,
J1 o ,r
1/':~L~\'··\~'/."~·'~
/J ,.......... ..... J "
"/Ó',¿J~
J

'-:-':;-' ~ ~ • ~.'~ .' ~ ¡J::: i.Jfi

Cj"'-!. ~ //". i : / ~
11 /"\i\~\~'//'¿-~'J/'~
. ¡'s..r / . ¡J:::J..
'Í\'~':J\--:\~\~\~ó{
~ ~ i • ¡- ~ /" r-' ,'J
"lf a person takes a bath on Friday, purifies himself completely,
applies oil or puts perfume if available at his home, and sets out
for the Mosque, refrains from separating between two persons
without their permission, prays what is prescribed for him and
listens to the Imam attentively, his sins between that time and
the next Friday will be forgiven." (Al-Bukhári) A different
narration states: "and also for three more days."
The Messenger of Alláh ~ also said:

((~~\~~,;J'\\~~J .Il\y:"J~J5
,
~~\P))
"Taking a bath on Friday is mandatory upon every adult
Muslim, so is using the Siwak (tooth stick). As for perfume, he
Friday Prayer: The Wisdom behind it and... 226

puts it on if available."
During the speech do not let anything divert your attention. Do not
spoil the opportunity to learn sornething that will benefit you. Part of
the benefit is that the Muslirns are rnaintaining the practice of
reminding and thus correcting one another so as to achieve the
happiness of this life and the Hereafter. So listen carefully with your
ears and hearts. Beware of talking while the Imam is delivering his
speech.
The Prophet ~ said:
jJ ~J ,jJ ~ ~\:r:. Ji <b;"~ r~~\J ~:~I ry. ~ .>
.((J;:~~

"Whoever talks or plays with rocks on Friday while the Imam is

delivering his speech has played frivolously and whoever plays
frivolously shall have no Friday prayer."
This, of course, nullifies the reward but not the action. The Prophet ~
also said:
J
J.'
J
.ur
Y-:¡¿,J
o;;

"Whoever speaks while the Imam is delivering his speech is like

a donkey carrying books, and whoever tells hirn to listen, shall
have no Friday prayer."
Beware of forcing your way between two people, as when the Prophet
~ saw sorne one doing so he told hirn:

'. '~-I .........

(( '. '--:'1'J~;)
. '-::"
',::
~ ' I~I»

"Sit down! You have come late and also harrned others."
The harm stated in the Hadith is the violation of the Muslirns' dignity
by forcing one's way through the crowd and stepping over the
shoulders ofthe Muslirns. Anah-~ says:
Friday Prayer: The Wisdom behind it and... 227

iV~.J .~\ I~ Jll;..:~ ~::~ ~\ -t; ~ ~jí -;,~ 6~j I~l \;;\; &~\ (~ ~
u<:~'¡í~ \ ~t~jí
..._) ~!J .... ~\..:.~
.... .. :9\~~O<';j:~
..; .. W ~ w.
. \ :('f:.:.:.:('
~ .. ~ ~
IS :~í
""5~
"\ ~ ./ ~íI"{-'~\'"
\0.t:f:j r;$' 'J-r' 'J .&í
/
~.
...
r-:T
~~'J
"O you who believe (Muslims)! When the ca11 is proc1aimed for
the Salát (prayer) on Jumu 'ah (the Friday prayer), come to the
remembrance of Alláh [Jumu 'ah religious talk (Khutbah) and
Salát (prayer)] and leave off business (and every other thing).
That is better for you if you did but know! Then when the
(Jumu 'ah) Salát (prayer) is ended, you may disperse through the
land, and seek the Bounty of Alláh (by working), and remember
Alláh much, that you may be successful." (62:9,10)
With this 1 conclude my speech and ask the Almighty Alláh ~ to
forgive a11 of our sins. So ask Him for forgiveness. Verily, He is the
A11-Forgiving, the A11 Merciful.
The month ofRamadhdn, obligation and comfort 228

The month of Ramadhán, obligation and comfort

All praise is due to Alláh ~ who prescribed fasting for the believers in
a certain noble month, therein He designated a night that is better than
a thousand months. 1 bear witness that there is no god worthy of
worship except Alláh 00 Alone, having no partners. All praise is for
Him and the dominion belongs to Him. To Him belong the creation,
the Commandment, the might and the power. 1 bear witness that
*'
Muhammad is His slave and Messenger. Alláh 00 says:
:~_.."J.~. -: ji i: ~w
~~~o" ¡S""'o"
-,,/
'lí -'/:¿o"¡; ~ í~o"\; :' .1í \/~~-f 1.
i~ r=.-.o" '.J-" ~:!J --+.:I:Y:! "!'
o,~~ -: -:/;í-;:: oo"¡, ":. o;; t. / V «>: C_,o" -' ·0;;1;'1--::"'¡ 0"~-;;'0"¡.>:IJ"'-;;'''''''
~ .~../'-" (,;- J
f
~v' ~ ....:....;t:l
/
.:rs 7' .)J..LA.A \.O~ O.:.>~ o

,,(c"':'i
"Z..,r -t •
6f
"O you who believe! Observing As-Saum (the fasting) is
prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that
you may become Al-Muttaqún (pious, god fearing). Observing
Saum (fasts) is for a fixed number of days, but if any ofyou is ill
or on a journey, the same number (should be made up) from
other days." (2:183,184)
O servants of AII<1h! Fasting for the sake of Alláh ~ is such a virtuous
form of worship. No one but Alláh ~ wholly realizes its reward.
Fasting the month of Ramadhán is one of the pillars ofIslam. Alláh ~
has prescribed it for the believers to become a shield, merey,
benevolence and a cause of good health for them. It is to be performed
in a manner that shall revive and awaken the feeling of Taqwa (fearing
Alláh ~) in their hearts and repress the fervor oftheir lusts and whims.
Consequently, they shall attain the benefits and advantages of this
spiritual experience in all fields: social, moral and health. For this
reason Alláh ~ concluded the aforementioned verse with:

~5~¡.tLí'
" ... So that you may have Taqwa." (2: 183)
Alláh ~ being the AII-Merciful, All-Kind, has made it easy for the
The month ofRamadhán, obligation and comfort 229

Muslims to fast the month of Ramadhán. Firstly, He pointed out that

fasting, being a form ofworship, was not decreed as an obligatory duty
upon man for the first time; Alláh ~ had prescribed it before for other
nations. In regard to this Alláh ~ said:
~~ ~~;" .~·Yí:L (~. -<' •
,W~~~~-....:....-./
.:Jí v
-¡;:-.::.k~:l>.
./ j"

" ... as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may
beco me Al-Muttaqún" (2: 183)

Having known that, the Muslim shall feel more comfortable in

accepting this obligation and be encouraged and strive to practice
fasting at its best. Secondly, Alláh ~ referred to the month of
Ramadhán as

"a fixed number of days." (2: 184)

That are fasted consecutively and finish quickly. Think about this
month that a Muslim only fasts its days compared to the whole year
with its days and nights spent through indulging in the permissible
desires and joys which are granted to us by Alláh ~, the All Generous,
the All-Merciful, What shall the ratio be? Thirdly, Alláh ~ has made it
permissible for old people who are unable to fast to break their fast and
feed a needy person in atonement for each day, that is if they find a
needy persono Alláh ~ says:

Á.~/. "aL~~~~
'""'C~i ~ /~
l:.~..:Jí -¡;:;:l>.
~ t.r Y
->»

"And as for those who can fast with difficulty (e.g. an old man),
they have (a choice either to fast or) to feed a Miskin (poor
person) (for every day)." (2: 184)
Ibn Abbas ~ 1\ ~) commented on this verse saying:
"It (i.e. the verse) is not abrogated; it is for the old who cannot
fast." (Al-Bukhárñ
The same is applied to the terminally ill people. The pregnant and
nursing women, if they fear that harm will befall the baby or fetus
The month 01 Ramadhán, obligation and comfort 230

when they fast, or, if they are afraid for themselves, they may break
their fast and make up for the days they miss later.
Fourthly, Alláh ~ has made the month of Ramadhán a month of
worship in which all forms of worship are being practiced. It is then a
time for the believer to increase his reward by doing every form of
worship permissible such as recitation of Qurán, Dhiker (supplication,
making mention of Alláh), prayer, Duá (invocation to the Lord), and
so forth. All Muslims worldwide, from many different origins,
nationalities, poor and rich, come together to worship Alláh ~
intensively in this month. In the villages, in the cities, in the country, in
every house and every tent, Ramadhán is being lived. There shall be no
differences, no chaos and no pride in one's opinion. Everyone is
fasting in this month of Ramadhán, in which the sacred book of Alláh
~ (Al-Qurán) was revealed to the Messenger Muhammad ~. Fifthly,
Alláh ~ has made it permissible for husbands and wives to resume
their sexuallife after sunset, as well as to eat and drink. People can still
enjoy their food and their spouses whether they have slept before that
or not. In the beginning, people were not allowed to eat; drink, or have
sexual intercourse if they had slept before breaking fast after sunset.
This caused a lot of hardship for sorne of them, so Alláh ~ made it
easier for them and allowed them to satisfy their hunger thirst and
desire thraughout the whole night in Ramadhán. Alláh ~ said:
~[;_ "~~1 ~U" .q" ·t"'f ~Ú 7-' ~('.-~ ,í\ ci~lí Wí¡U :~í 1-i:l<.
F 0-t"' V" \00 ("'"":J r '-'" .,,(,Ib f"'. "v~ 'J ~ - " - r - - ' sr: T
» -' /J!J/í~ ..~/
c.~.~.\.",' . 1Jl.."':J'~//
,-:""," • /,-::': '~/~:i
'-'~.=;;;¡
/ ~I-:::: '~~\:b':i-'-:í
Al...;.,)Y~~ 4ll
l..T~. • • \

1"'--:'''/ ~ ... "" "''''':''t'' .~1"'''''''';'; -s> g\,} ... ·'\"'r'~ ;-t,,-:,,\ /""''''' \.. . . "\,) . . . . \.. .

~\ ~ ";";.:11 ~I ~ ~ ~ ~.r.!J ~j ¡.-- 4ll ~ \.4 ~!J

L ¿ ,..&.- .........

..(O:,~ííJ...:\;'/·\íi·q-:· .:/,ií:' ,)".~\

"\~ ~ r~ ~ .>' -?"" 4:t;~
"It is made lawful for you to have sexual relations with your
wives on the night of As-Saum (the fasts). They are Libas [i.e.
body-cover, or screen, or Sakan (i.e. you enjoy the pleasure of
living with them - as in Verse 7: 189) Tajsir Al-Tabari] for you
and you are the same for them. Alláh knows that you used to
deceive yourselves, so He tumed to you (accepted your
The month ofRamadhán, obligation and comfort 231

repentance) and forgave you. So now have sexual relations with

them and seek that which Alláh has ordained for you (offspring),
and eat and drink until the white thread (light) of dawn appears
to you distinct from the black thread (darkness of night), then
complete your Saum (fast) till the nightfall." (2: 187)
This and other issues demonstrate that Alláh ~ has made this
obligation easy to fulfill. Alláh ~ said:
íj;f=~(~Liíil,W~
,. ~J ...!J ~
"'-"rí~,L"~~ S-::ií
~..r-"" ¡-:; .~ J
~~":;'í" ":lo.
• r--> 4U ...I.::'.j.. l'

~GJj:;..3rLWJ~J.¡~J~í
"Alláh intends for you ease, and He does not want to make
things difficult for you. (He wants that you) must complete the
same number (of days), and that you must magnify Alláh [i.e. to
say Takbir (Alláhu Akbar: Alláh is the Most Great)] for having
guided you so that you may be grateful to Him." (2: 185)
Fasting is to abstain from eating, drinking, sexual intercourse, and
whatever they entail, with apure intention for the sake of Alláh ~
from the break of the dawn until sunset. Moreover, fasting becomes
more perfect and complete if the prohibitions in general and sins are
also averted. In this regard the Prophet ~ said:
}~W: t~ ~1 .j ~~ /JJ :.r :tj ::. p I } !J5J 1 J~ t.~ rJ ~»)
(c,cl/ /. /
. ..r'J
"Alláh does not need someone to abstain from eating and
drinking while, at the same time, he is involved in lying and
carrying out falsehood."
Fasting was first decreed as a mandatory form ofworship in the second
year ofthe Hijra. When the Prophet ~ passed away, he had fasted nine
months of Ramadhán, The beginning of Ramadhán can be observed
with two things:
The sighting ofthe crescent ofthe month of Ramadhán. Alláh ~ says:

~r: :~'--:~~í~ ~!"~ t

The month ofRamadhdn, obligation and comfort 232

"So whoever ofyou sights (the crescent on the first night of) the
month (of Ramadhán i.e., is present at his home), he must
observe Saum (fasts) that month." (2: 185)
The completion of 30 days of the previous month of Sha'ban which is
the eighth month in the Hijri calendar. In this regard the Prophet ::i
said:
,....,....,.... ,.............. J o~/ J..... J o /

.((L::.'~~ ·')U0Wo~I·I·('ü·_C~\~ó' 0ÜJl

.J- ~ . / ~ r-::-- ~ ~

If the weather is cloudy [i.e., as you try to sight the moon],

oo•••

then complete the month of Sha'ban at thirty days."

lo this respect, the phases of the moon, its height, or the crescent size
shall not be considered in the beginning of the month or its end. The
occident and the onsets of the moon alternate and both depend on the
planets travelling in the galaxy. It is noteworthy to say that the Prophet
~ never relied on the phases of the moon or the size of the crescent in
his ruling regarding starting or ending Rarnadhán. He did not even
consider them in this issue. He, instead, focused on sighting the
crescent. He ~ said:
,....,....,.... .....,.... ..... J 0-;...... J..... J <) ..... Q -;. J
~ ·')U0Wo~II.('ü'.C'\~ó' ¡Jü ,"':::;'·J\I Jl.~\/ ...:::;'.J\\ J
~ . / ~ r-::-- ~ ~ //-.)~.)~.) //_.J~ Y.J-P
JI

"Observe fast on sighting the moon [of Rarnadhán] and

terminate it on sighting the moon [of Shawwal]. However, if it is
cloudy then complete the month of Sha'ban at thirty days."
The Muslim must receive this great month happily and gratefully,
while praising and thanking Alláh ~ and with full readiness and apure
intention to practice all forms of worship in this month. He must look
forward to spending the days of this month fasting and reciting Qur' án
and the nights praying, supplicating, and invoking Alláh ~. The
Prophet :i used to give the great tidings of the advent of Ramadhán to
his Companions saying:
"The month of Ramadhán has come about. It is a month of
blessings that Alláh ~ has decreed to be mandatory upon you to
The month ofRamadhán, obligation and comfort 233

fast its days. In it, the gates ofHeavens are opened, the gates of
Hell are c1osed; and the devils are ehained. In it, there is a night
that is better than a thousand months. Whoever is deprived from
its goodness is indisputably deprived."
We ask Alláh ~ not to deprive us from this goodness and to bestow
upon us the virtues ofthis blessed night.
With this I eonc1ude my speeeh and ask Alláh ~, the Almighty, to
forgive all of our sins. So seek His forgiveness, for He is the All­
Forgiving, the All- Mere iful.
The Virtues o/Lailat-ul-Qadr... 234

The Virtues of Lailat-ul-Qadr (the night of

decree) and the night prayer
All praise is for Alláh who granted His servants these seasons offavors
and bounties. He guided whomever He willed to avail themselves of
these opportunities to increase their good deeds and actions. Yet, He ~
forsakes others who turn away from taking advantage of these seasons
and lose the goodness thereof. I bear witness that there is no god
worthy of worship except Alláh ~ Alone, having no partners, the Lord
of the earth and the heavens. I also bear witness that Muhammad ~ is
His Messenger and slave, the best man ever created. May the peace
and blessings of Alláh ~ be upon him, his family, his Companions and
those who rightly followed their guidance throughout the passage of
time.
o people! Fear Alláh ~ and take advantage of the seasons of goodness
and Alláhs ~ favors by building up what draws you nearer to your
Lord, and beware of wasting and giving up these opportunities. If you
do so, you will regret every moment you waste.
O brothers! If you do not profit in this great month, then when do you
plan to profit? If one does not revert to his Lord in this month, when
does he intend to revert? He who is still inactive in gaining the favors
and goodness of this month, when does he think he will be righteous
and successful?
My brothers! Take advantage of the opportunities in this month before
it is too late! Keep your souls away from its destruction and ruin. Your
great month has started to diminish. The count down has begun on its
precious nights and days. So make up for what you have missed and
take advantage of what is left before it is too late. Hurry to Alláh, the
Almighty! Repent for your sins, and know that actions are but by
conclusion, so conclude your actions with gooddeeds. Two thirds of
this great month have passed. What is left of it, is only one-third, but it
is the last ten days of Ramadhán, [which are the most virtuous and
precious days]. Avail yourselves of these days with honest intentions,
The Virtues 01Lailat-ul-Qadr-. 235

doing all what is righteous and being benevolent. Take advantage of

these very last nights by praying to Alláh ~ with submission and
humility and with hope for his favors and benevolence. While praying
to Him in these nights, seek His refuge from His tortures and
punishments. Verily, He is the All Generous and the All Merciful. He
is the One Who says:

s
~'-.:..JJ">"';".J.
i
> .Jo{ '~I~í""j ~~-":'J
~ ':"í~Ji'"
,!.J'. ~';
:: '~i(
~~
"And when My slaves ask you (O Muhammad :i) conceming
Me, then answer them, 1 am indeed near (to them by My
Knowledge). 1 respond to the invocations ofthe supplicant when
he calls on Me (without any mediator or intercessor). So let
them obey Me and believe in Me, so that they may be led
aright." (2:186)
Alláh ~ descends to the first heaven in the last third of every night to
offer His generosity and forgiveness to His servants saying:

"Who is saying a prayer to Me? So 1 shall answer it. Who is

asking for something from Me? So 1 shall give it to him. Who
asks Me for forgiveness? So 1 shall forgive him."
One of these last ten blessed nights is Lailatul-Qadr (The Night of
Decree) in which is decreed every matter of ordainment as well as
everything to take place within the next year upon Alláhs Will. In this
night, the angels descend from the heavens, the bounties, the goodness,
and the benefits increase. Whoever spends this night praying and
worshipping Alláh ~ with pure intentions shall have all of his sins
forgiven, yet whoever wastes and neglects it shall be truly deprived
and shall only have himself to blame. Alláh ~ has made this night
unknown to the people. They only know that it is one of the last ten
nights of Ramadhán every year. This is to promote them to increase
their worship throughout the whole ten days, so they may pray more,
The Virtues Di Lailat-ul-Qadr ... 236

recite more ofthe Qur 'án and be kinder and more helpful to the people
during that periodo It is then a test, thereupon the striving and active
Muslim is distinguished from the lazy one. Had the exact date of
Laitatul-Qadr been revealed, this test would have been of no tangible
avail and the Muslim would not have striven to reach the utmost of
nearness to Alláh ~. May Alláh ~ have merey on you! Pursue this
nearness with eagerness and sincerity! Ask Alláh in this night to let
you gain more of goodness and bounties in this life and the Hereafter.
Then ask Him to protect you from being among the losers. While you
pray or recite the Qur'án. Be sure to pray to Alliih~, to have merey on
you, and provide for you when you come across a verse of merey, and
to protect you from his chastisement when you come across a verse of
torture and punishment. In your bowing, glorify your Lord, The
Almighty and in your prostration, be eager in your mentioning of His
Great and Beautiful Names and be importunate in asking Him for what
you like and wish for. A worshipper is nearest to Alláh when he is in
the position of prostration in the prayer, so your prayer is worthy to be
answered while in Sujud.
The person may make Duá' for himself, his parents, his children, his
relatives and any Muslim he wishes. It is preferable to make the pil1ars
and positions ofthe prayer have the same amount oftime. The positio n
of standing after bowing should be as long as that of the bowing itself
and the sitting position between the two Sajdah should also be as long
as the Sujud itself.
The standing position after the bowing should be dedicated for praising
Alláh ~, so praise Him lengthily (using what was authentical1y
transmitted from the Prophet :1). On the other hand, the sitting position
between the two Sajdah is designated for begging Alláh ~ for
forgiveness, so one should ask Alláh ~ for his merey and forgiveness
while in that position.
One must begin his Tahajjud (night prayer) with two short Rak 'át
because Satan ties three knots on the backside of a person's neck
during the night. When he wakes up, one knot will be untied only if he
mentions Alláh ~. Another will be untied when he performs Wudu
The Virtues ofLailat-ul-Qadr ... 237

(ablution); and the third will be untied when he prays. However, if a

person enters the mosque while the Imam is praying, he should join
him even though he has not prayed the two short Rak 'át, because it is
more important to follow the Imam than to pray these two Rak 'át
alone. 1 seek refuge with Alláh ~ from Satan, the outcast. Bismillahir­
Rahmánir-Rahim ...
-~ ...iir
-r-" ~. »-~ .:iiií ~í·í
~ ~-P.--d ~
o..!.iJí
~
lli• ~ ~~~
l)
i:J ~. ~~:F·1
t:'J~ O ~,.i:Jí •• .r:
TI.7
I í.­

AL ~-:ií j e ,:~ ~.o:. ',í~ O -t

"J-' .' -r , ~~ , " : . "
" ? e: <!.s>tJ;.>-'-" s: '! ~rr:! ":!~~;.~(V· J
hrk .f¡:ií S~~
lo lJ'.l
O

"Verily, We have sent it (this Qur'án) down in the Night of

Al-Qadr (Decree). And what will make you know what the
Night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is? The Night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is
better than a thousand months (i.e. worshipping Alláh in that
night is better than worshipping Him a thousand months, i.e. 83
years and 4 months). Therein descend the angels and the Rüh
[Jibril (Gabriel)] by Alláhs Permission with all Decrees, all that
night), there is peace (and goodness from Alláh to His believing
slaves) until the appearance of dawn." (97: 1-5)
May Alláh ~ bestow upon us the blessings of the Noble Qur 'án, and
guide you and me to (understand and practice) its verses and wisdom.
With this 1 conclude my speech and ask Alláh to forgive all of our sins.
Seek Alláh's forgiveness, for verily He is All-Forgiving, and All­
Merciful.
Alms giving and its Status 238

Alms givillg and its Status

All praise is for Alláh, We praise Alláh ~ in the way He deserves to

be praised and thanked. May the peace and prayer of AIHih ~ be upon
the Prophet ~ after whom there will come no other prophets, and upon
his family, his Companions and every one that follows in their
footsteps until the Day of Resurrection.
O servants of AIHih! Fear Alláh m; and know that one cannot be a true
believer until he submits to the commandments of Alláh ~. AIHih has
prescribed for you certain duties and made them mandatory; the
implementation thereof is your source of happiness. One of these
duties is Zakát (alms giving) or charity. Every Muslim possessing the
liable amount of money or property must pay an annual percentage of
that amount as charity.
This charity has great and obvious advantages in the Islamic society. It
makes the rich reconcile with the pOOL It fulfils sorne of the poor
people's needs and alleviates sorne of their suffering. It protects the
needy from going astray in terms of criminal behavior such as:
robbery, violating other people's property, and even committing
suicide.
Zakát is purification. It purifies both the wealth and the wealthy. It also
purifies the needy that receive it, and the whole society in which the
wealthy look after the needy by giving them the dues oftheir money.
How does it purify the wealth, the wealthy, and the needy? Zakát
makes the money increase both in purity and blessing. It purifies the
wealthy and those who give their dues to the needy from stinginess. It
further prevents them from adoring their money which is a form of
Shirk (taking partners with Alláh ~). Zakát purifies the soul of the
needy from envy, hatred and animosity. Moreover, it c1eanses them
from coveting other people' s money and property and prevents them
from falling prey to the plots of Satan who will attempt to corrupt them
and incite them to commit crimes. At the end, it is the purification for
the whole society.
Alms gívíng and its Status 239

To those who have money, we say: "Do not be stingy, for He who
granted you this money, if He wills, is able to take it away from you.
Alláh, who is the Rieh, free of all needs, and worthy of all praise has
bestowed His blessings upon you and made your hand the upper one
and another hand the lower one. Be grateful to Him and appreeiate His
favors upon you, so that this wealth of yours may last and your hand
may remain higher! Spend your money for the sake of Alláh ~! Do
not be afraid that the Lord of the Throne will make you lose; Alláh ~
has promised the eharity giver to inerease his wealth. Alláh's promises
shall never be reneged on."
Besides, wealth is Alláh's favor upon you. If you appreciate it
gratefully, it will inerease and if you are ungrateful, it will perish and
vanish. Alláh's merey is near to those who are benevolent, so
safeguard your wealth by giving the needy their right to sorne of it.
The needy, if deprived from his rights, will rush to do evil. The soeiety
that is eorrupted, erime infested, and inseeure shall have no
opportunity for the wealth to grow, provision to inerease, or a deeent
life to be established. This same soeiety will be moving from one
misery to another."
Alláh has established a methodology in dealing with people regarding
this very issue. That is when they give to the poor, He gives them
more. But when they abstain and refuse to give their dues, He punishes
them by withholding the rain and increasing the prices of their life's
needs. You who are wealthy, ask Alláh ~ to bestow His merey upon
His servants and to give them rain by your being generous and giving
eharity. Alláh is indeed the All-Generous and loves those who are
generous.
The Sunnah of the Prophet ~ wams those who do not pay their Zakát
from Alláh's exerueiating punishment and ehastisement. For instanee,
the Prophet ~ said:
. ((il15jJ1
/
•/
~
./ ·í J',-!­
'1\ir:> s: . J~ ,/ oí: ~»)

"Wealth shall not be destroyed whether on land or sea exeept by

withholding the Zakát dues."
Alms giving and its Status 240

Those who do not give their Zakát dues shall be in the Fire of Hell in
the Hereafter. They will be tortured with the very money whose dues
they withheld. Al-Bukhari and Muslim narrated that the Messenger of
Alláh ~ had said:
~-.~·í \";>'i)\,\
Y- r ~.J .,.J
.,/'
-1 G il~// ~
,
s>
.rU.r-:. u-:-) ~
I~/ ~ ~ !o..G
//_.,... ~ -.~ Jk))
.. ,... i.S.. J ,....

,...

~%L~~\.h;
o"~ .-;.// "'''''-

J>
,....

.~~IJ
-; "

0§i
,...

~ ~\ ~~\
0-;'''
ry. 0~L:;- '11 L¡it5j
,. .- ,. .- ,. .­

,... ;. '" ,... ,...­

ili~~~\/-·10~WS. 8\~-/ .~~ :/I-::~~~~/
/- .r / <J"
/
~ ~ o:" ~~.;A-! /
J
,.... ,.... -:
. llL".:tJI
"By Him in Whose Hand is my soul! No one dies and leaves
sheep, camels, and cattle behind without paying their Zakát
dues, but that they will come on the Day of Resurrection in the
best state of health they had ever been in before, and would
tread him with their feet, and butt him with their horns until
Alláh ~ judges among the people. [They would continue doing
that taking turns on him]. When the last of them gets tired the
first will take the turn again."
The one who withholds the Zakát due on his wealth will be shown his
wealth as a huge snake, which will encircle him as said in a Hadith:
:;~ Vi ~\~. ~~\ ry'~J ~ 'Íl'~~ ~tS'j l:?~y. -¡~ ~~))

"The one that refuses to pay his Zakát dues on his wealth will
have it come to him as a huge snake on the Day of Judgement,
which will wrap around his neck."
Alláh ~ said:

~~
-;­
"And let not those who covetously withhold of that which Alláh
has bestowed on them of His Bounty (wealth) think that it is
Alms giving and its Status 241

good for them (and so they do not pay the obligatory Zakát).
Nay, it will be worse for them; the things that they covetously
withheld shall be tied to their necks like a collar on the Day of
Resurrection. And to Alláh belongs the heritage of the heavens
and the earth; and Alláh is Well-Acquainted with all that you
do." (3:180)
Those who do not pay their Zakát that is due on their wealth shall have
their money changed into heated plates of metal on the Day of
Resurrection with which they will be burned. Alláh ~ says:
.J..~"'-:' -::'í l .> ·1"'~.e·:'''r¡1.;,W / ~.y", ~'"
"''''lIí -....:.,;.J~ / jí"'J¡.
~~ ~ ~ ~ """f~.J '" 'J ~ 'J 'T

.N~.J.", • s » t'-I-:'. ,:y~-:: "'-::// Gj4:"'~ <:.~<.:; O..-Jt.... \~

r-r-~'J ~ ." ~-:.s.J""'-'-"~~ '" - <.s-::i-T.. ... -",J> s­

~0;JF:::.-F~~;~:t",~f~~]b.~\h?5~J
"And those who hoard up gold and silver (Al-Kanz: the money,
the Zakát of which has not been paid) and spend them not in the
way of Alláh, announce unto them a painful torment. On the
Day 'when that (Al-Kanz: money, gold and silver, the Zakát of
which has not been paid) will be heated in the fire of Hell and
with it will be branded on their foreheads, their flanks, and their
backs, "This is the treasure which you hoarded for yourselves.
Now taste ofwhat you used to hoard." (9:34-35)
He who does not pay his Zakát dues shall be amongst the hypocrites.
Al-Bazzar reported:
~ ~) \~).{~ ~L5) ~ ,'-:~;'.J ~).jj ~~I ~ ~~»
. ((~~e.J\
"The prayer was c1ear and manifest (performed openly) for them
so they accepted it. The Zakát was made hidden for them (not a
deed performed openly) so they ate it. Those are the hypocrites
indeed."
He is cursed who does not pay his Zakát dues for what AI-Asbahani
Alms giving and its Status 242

reported:
~:~.~I)\J /~15J ~~GJ '~;J ~~I ~ ~ /41 J';"-:" ~;J»
.«'J JkjIJ JkjIJ ~~\ 2~J .¡~·S' ~'I\J
"The Messenger of Alláh ~ has cursed the Riba eater (the one
who deals with usury), the witness of [a usury contract] and its
writer, the woman who performs tattoos as well as the one who
demands it, and the one who withholds charity... "
He who withholds his Zakát money is not a true Muslim, meaning that
he does not fulfil what Alláh ~ requires him to do, even if he claims to
be a Muslim. Imam Muslim reported in his book:
',....
.F
,..-,.... ,.... ,.... /. ,.... ,....,.... /. ,....

. (('~'4~';:l
/
~ o15JI s-'Y. ~J o~\ r~i 2;»
"He who observes the prayer, but does not pay his Zakát dues is
not a Muslim that is benefited with his deeds."
He who withholds his Zakát dues should be afraid of being amongst
the disbelievers and being afflicted with what they are. Alláh ~ said:

~5J~~~~~~J~~í5j~~~Jí O~l::~j;~ ~
"And woe to Al-Mushrikún (the polytheists, idolaters,
disbelievers in the Oneness of Alláh). Those who give not the
Zakát and they are disbelievers in the Hereafter." (41:6,7)

On Judgement Day, the Prophet Muhammad ~ will not intercede for

him who does not pay his Zakát dues, for what Al-Bukhári and Muslim
reported in their books. In this regard the Prophet ~ said:
:J' ..roZ.· •~V.J 'J ..~/ /¿j/ í;
/ . .J <J""'"
~tAl\
/ •/ i/'/; / '--~~ or:
Yo '-F:'- r
~/~'\1 '1»)
-: t' : ~ o,.... ,.... ",.....,.........,. ,,"'" }- h/ "-;.,,....

.((~i~ d:;'';'¿IJ~I'l' :J}19 .~I/.wIJ';"-:"~

"1 do not want anyone of you to come to me on the Day of

Resurrection carrying over his neck a camel that is growling,
(calling upon me to intercede for him) saying, 'O Messenger of
Alláh help me!' 1 will then say to him: '1 cannot help you with
Alms giving and its Status 243

anything (now), for 1 did convey the Message to you. '"

Alláh ~ says:
.:.1SS O¿~::·,t"j¿~tiJ o.iA~:r-:'o¿::i.'~j%J o~t~&:é~ ~
"'.... ~............... -: ,;' /.J-- / / / -:. -;"'-:: -: J..fl,./.Jo..... ." ,/.... :' .....j, J.> ......»>-: .-:·... it

,-*'S\ll:.J w¡'" 0~-4ll ~wl O~y b~TdJ ~~I.A'" o~~~ 04.r-~

4.~~ o.1;;':'jS .;~í O :¡::~í ;hí~:¡,'~-j oJ.tG~53~~t oJ}¡t

~~ ~;Q ~l o"i'¿ .t:;.; ~:h;;'~ ~J oS): ~~ J~ .;Jí O :J.t,¡í
....3:"" "",.:.J ......... r..r;- f ,.. .....1 ". ~ .... ...1 ..........

~~¿';J~ o~~í
"As for him who gives (in charity) and keeps his duty to Alláh
and fears Him. And believes in Al-Husná. We will make smooth
for him the path of ease (goodness). But he who is greedy miser
and thinks himself self-sufficient. And belies Al-Husná. We will
make smooth for him the path for evi1. And what will his wealth
avail him when he goes down (in destruction?). Truly, on Us is
(to give) guidance. And truly, unto Us (belong) the last
(Hereafter) and the first (this world). Therefore 1 have wamed
you of a blazing Pire (Hell). None shall enter it save the most
wretched. Who denies and tums away. And Al-Muttaqún (the
pious) will be far removed from it (Hell). He who spends his
wealth for increase in self-purification. And who has (in mind)
no favor from anyone to be paid back. Except to seek the Pace
of his Lord, the Most High. He surely, will be pleased (when he
will enter Paradise)." (92:5-21)
I~~ / / t""'. i'¡ -'_G ~~ oÍ" :';~J'
':"=J O ~ ~éÜ;'." O'.,
~I:";¡ '\",1: " ' . ~~ r- ':l>..
I ~~) ~Ii O~~)-.=..L...L.1'
/'

.L;::".¡,'~lí
~ -........

"What has caused you to enter Hell? They will say: 'We were
not of those who used to offer the Salát (prayers). Nor we used
to feed Al-Miskin (the poor); and we used to talk falsehood (all
that which Alláh hated) with vain talkers. And we used to belie
the Day ofRecompense, until there carne to us (the death) that is
Alms giving and its Status 244

certain. So no intercession of intercessors will be of any use to

them.'" (74:42-48)
With this 1 conclude my speech and ask Alláh ~ to forgive all of our
sins. Seek His forgiveness for He is the All-Forgiving, the Most
Merciful.
Pilgrimage - Ha)) 245

Pilgrimage - Hajj
AH praise is for Alláh ~ who completed for this nation the laws and
rulings of Islam, and made it obligatory upon those who are able
financially and physically to perform Hajj (pilgrimage), for which He
prescribed a high reward. He promised the Muslim who performs Hajj
without erring or violating to have all of his past sins erased so that he
becomes as innocent as a newborn baby. That is Al-Hajj Al-Mabrur
(the Pilgrimage that is accepted by the grace of Alláh ~) for which
Alláh ~ rewards the garden.
I praise Alláh ~ and thank Him and bear witness that there is no god
worthy of worship except Alliih ~, Al-Malik (The King), Al-Quddus
(The Holy) and As-Salám (The Peace). I also bear witness that
Muhammad is His slave and Messenger, the best man that ever prayed,
fasted, performed Hajj, and paid Zakát. May the peace and blessings of
Alláh ~ be upon him, his family, his benevolent Companions and
those who follow their guidance throughout the passage oftime.
O believers! Fear Alláh ~ and praise Him for perfecting your religion
and completing his favors upon you. One of these favors is that He
ordered you to perform Hajj and also made it easy for you to do.
In the early ages, pilgrimage was a hard obligation to fulfill in terms of
difficulties and cost, which few people would be able to afford. The
person would be encountering many dangers during this journey.
Whereas in these days, many things have changed and Alláh ~ has
made it easier for us to perform this form of worship. It has become an
easy matter and a pleasant journey in terms of travelling. One can
choose any means oftransportation to take; an airplane, a bus, a car, or
even an ocean liner, whatever is more convenient for uso AH of these
means are part of Alláh's favors on the people. So they should to be
grateful for this and much more. While it is easy for them to take this
journey, they should take advantage of the opportunity to increase their
obedience and worship and to gain more Taqwa and piety.
Pilgrimage is obligatory upon every Muslim who has fulfilled the
Pilgrimage - Hajj 246

following prerequisites:
lo Puberty
20 Sanity
3. Physica1 and financial ability
Hajj is not required from a child who has not yet reached puberty, a
mentally insane person, or a physically or financially incapable persono
Alliih ~ said:
L~/ ,/ ¡JI "Ú:.~ '-Í .-- - .;/fí ~
"\~ ,,- Ji> t:
\Sí t::. .J¡" 1­
I.t' __ -' ~ ~ ..r" "J r
"Ha}} (pilgrimage to Makkah) to the House (Ka'bah) is a duty
that mankind owes to Alláh, those who can afford the expenses
(for one's conveyance, provision and residence)." (3:180)
The one who is in debt and does not have money should pay his debts
first, then perform Hajj because to be acquitted first from these
responsibilities is more important. If a person becomes weak to the
point that he cannot travel but has money, he may send someone to
perform Hajj on his behalf. The sick person whose sickness is terminal
may also perform Hajj through proxy (i.e. to send someone to do it on
his behalf.) This also applies to old people who are so weak that they
become unable to trave1. For women another requirement may be
added. That is every woman should have a Mahram (a male relative
who is Islamically forbidden from ever marrying her) to accompany
her on her journey until she returns to her home. In this regard, the
Prophet ~ said:
--- J.;" sÓ> J --- -;. "j. -;; j.

L?~ ~ '11 ol:;J\ ¿G~) 'i~)~ L¡;:) '11 ~\;'L~ ~J 0~ ~))

Il (1 '"

.. p "" '" ",'/ -;. "-¡;; ,'" "" ",,/ "j. //

T ,¡;'l.:>- ~/ -1/ 0101.&1
J ~/t; :JI,jjI':': /I,jj ((
'-I~)'
o

.?~J'" s > YJ. .r> : /0/

r~

~ ~ ~IJ) : ~ /.&1 j"'::J J~ ,liS) liS ~); ~ /- ::-5\

o((~i:~\
"A man shall not be alone with a woman in private without her
Mahram. A woman shall not travel without a Mahram
[accompanying her.]", Upon this, aman stood up and said: "O
Pilgrimage - Ha)) 247

Messenger of Alláh, my wife set out for Hajj, and 1 am here

preparing for Jihád" The Prophet js said: "Go and perform Hajj
with your wife,
A Mahram is any man that a woman is Islamically forbidden to ever
marry due to family, nursing, or marriage relationships, such as a
father, son, grandfather, brother, uncle, or nephew (in the family or
from nursing relationship), A Mahram may also be the father-in-law,
the stepson, the son-in-law, and the step-father (from the marriage
relationships). All of the aforementioned are qualified to be Mahram
for the woman. Of course, there is reasoning behind this ruling. It is to
protect, safeguard and look after the woman while she is travellíng.
However, whoever cannot find a Mahram is excluded from the
obligation due to inability to fulfill the prerequisites,
As for the performance of Hajj and Umrah, a Muslim must leam how
to do that, so as to be able to perform them correctly. The first thing for
a Muslim to know is that he is about to do one ofthe main obligations
and píllars of Islam. He must abstain from indulging in any prohibited
matter or sin. He must purify his heart as well as his body. The money
he intends to use for this joumey must come from a lawful, Halaal
(Islamically permissible) and pure source that has not mixed with
Haram (Islamically impermissible matters). He should further pay
specíal care to his prayers by performing them as perfectly as possible,
in congregation and in the mosques if available. In addítion to that, he
must behave with good qualities such as generosity, cheerfulness, and
patience upon suffering the pains and hardships of the joumey and
should not harm anyone.
When one reaches his prescribed Miqat (a place designated for people
to assume Ihram based on their originating city) one should take Ghusl
(a ritual purifying bath in which the whole body is washed), use
perfume on his body, hair, and beard, then perform the act of Ihram
(puts on the two-piece traditional garment and utters the intention to
perform Umrah) He then sets out for Makkah pronouncing the Talbiya
(saying aloud these words):
dí ~~:k.) ~\ 0\. ,~J
..~
dí .!.Lt.r:~.
,
~ ~J
.. ,~J
.. I~\ ,~J'~í))
Pilgrimage - Hajj 248

/. -¡ ¿Ll~k.)
(( ¿D cl. ..7'"
"Here 1 am at Your service, O Lord, Here 1 aml Here 1 amo No
partner do You have. Here 1 am! AH praise be to You, and all
favors and bounties are due to You. No partner do You have."
When he reaches Al-Bayt Al-Haram (the House of Alláh), he
circumambulates the Ka 'bah seven times as part ofthe Umrah. He can
do so regardless of his distance from the Ka 'bah, within the mosque,
yet to be closer is more preferable if this does not cause any harm to
anyone, inc1uding himself. After completing this Tawaj
(circumambulating the Ka 'bah), he goes behind Maqam Ibrahim (the
station ofIbrahim) and prays two Rak'át ifpossible, otherwise he may
pray at any place within the sacred Mosque. After that, he heads
towards the two hills to perform As-Sa 'i (walking and hurrying
between the two hills of As-Saja and Marwa starting from As-Saja),
seven times. After he completes these seven turns, he should cut his
hair equally, Cutting only part of the hair is not acceptable. Even
though many people do so, it is not correcto
A person performing Hajj shall keep his heart, limbs and thoughts
from all sins or violations that might cause a defect in his Hajj. On the
eighth of Dhul-Hijja, he prepares himself for Hajj by taking a Ghusl,
using perfume and wearing Ihram. He shall do such at the place he is
staying at in Makkah. He shall then head for Mina. He prays the noon
prayer, the afternoon prayer, the evening prayer, the night prayer and
the next morning prayer at Mina shortened but not combined. This is
because the Prophet ~ prayed these prayers at Mina and in all the areas
ofMakkah shortening the prayers but not combining them.
On the night of Dhul Hijja (the Day of 'A raja), he sets out for Mount
'Araja immediately after sunrise, uttering his Talbiya and humbling
himself to his Lord. On this day he prays the noon prayer and the
afternoon prayer shortened and combined in the time of the noon
prayer so as to dedicate the rest of the day for supplication and Du 'a '.
He must keep his Wudu (status of purity) and face the Qiblah (the
direction of the Ka 'bah) with the hill at his back, as this is the Sunnah
of the Prophet ~. He must further stay within the boundaries of 'Arafa
Pilgrimage - Ha}} 249

and its signs. Unfortunately, many people stand far beyond these
boundaries or even farther away not knowing that standing beyond
these boundaries definitely nullifies the Hajj entirely, as the Prophet ~
said:

"Hajj [Pilgrimage] is (rnainly) 'Arafa (Le. standing at 'Arafa)."

Once you are at 'Arafa, you may stand any where you want within the
boundaries. The bottom of the valley, which is called Urana Valley is
not a part of 'Arafa. The Prophet ~ said:
.... t Jo j-""',.... ,....),....}.,
. ((~Y L¡..lS ¡J:}-:' l;j, u. ~:,))
"1 stood over here and the entirety of 'Arafa is acceptable to
stand on."
After a Muslim has confirmed that the sun has set, he may proceed to
Muzdalifah in a peaceful and dignified manner, humbling himself
while reciting his Talbiyyah, as was advised by the Messenger of Alláh
~ when He said:

.(( ts:.=J\ts:.=J\)<J'1.J I I~
., -:>
-:f¡))
"O people: Peace, Peace!"
When he arrives at Muzdalifah, he has to pray the evening prayer and
the nighttime prayer in combination, shortening the nighttirne prayer to
two Rak 'át. Thereafter he shall stay at Muzdalifah until dawn.
The Prophet ~ had permitted only the weak people to depart
Muzdalifah any time after midnight and before dawn. Having prayed in
Muzdalifah, a Haji (a person who is performing Ha}}) is advised to
face the Ka 'bah and say Takbeer and Tahmeed (exalting Alláh ~ by
saying Alláhu Akbar, and praising Him by saying Al-Hamdulillah) as
well as saying the supplications and prayers. He shall do so until the
brightness of the morning is widespread. Before sunrise, he should
proceed for Mina and on the way he should pick up seven pebbles. He
should then go towards the stone pillar of 'Aqabah,which is the last
one next to Makkah. Upon arriving there and after sunrise, he should
Pilgrimage - Haj] 250

throw the pebbles towards the stone pillar of 'Aqaba one after the other
while saying Alláhu Akbar with each throw. This whole practice must
be done with humility and submission, because the purpose behind it is
to glorify Alláh ~ and make mention of Him. Each pebble must be
thrown towards the 'Aqaba pillar, yet throwing the pebbles at the post
erected in the middle is not required. After completing this deed, he
may slaughter his sacrificial animal if it is required from him. The
animal must fulfill the requirements needed in a sacrificial animal. It is
permissible to appoint a proxy to do the slaughter. After that, a Haji is
allowed to shave his entire head or shorten his hair equally. He is not
allowed to cut or shave part of it and leave parto As for women, they
are required to cut a fingertip-long length of their hair. With this, a
Haji is free of most prohibitions of Ihram except having sexual
intercourse with hislher spouse. That is called the first Tahallul (i.e.,
returning to one's normal state.) A Haji may therefore put on his
clothes, clip his nails and wear perfume, but shall not have relations
with his wife.
When a Haji proceeds to Makkah before noon, he shal1 perform Tawaf
al-ljadah (being an essential part of Hajj), perform Sa 'i (walking
between the two aforementioned hills seven turns) and return to Mina.
Having done all that, he is in the state of complete and final Tahallul
when every Hajj prohibition is lifted including having intercourse with
one's spouse.
o servants of Alláh, on Eid (the tenth of Dhul-Hijja), a Haji performs
four of the Hajj practices: throwing at the stone pillar, slaughtering the
sacrificial animal, shaving then Tawaf and Sa 'i. This is the correct
order; however doing these actions in a different order from this shall
not constitute a defect in the Hajj. For example: shaving before
slaughter, doing Tawaf and Sa 'i after proceeding from Mina, or
slaughtering the animal on the 13th will not do any harm especial1y
when such is being done to the advantage of the Haji. A Haji is
required to stay the night of the 11th of Dhul 'Hijja at Mina.
Immediately after noon a Haji should throw at the three stone pil1ars
with seven pebbles every day for three days in a row starting with the
Pilgrimage - Hajj 251

first pillar, then the middle, then the lasto He shall always remember to
say Takbir with every pebble he throws.
The time of throwing the pebbles on the day of Eid is after sunrise
until sunset for the healthy and strong people and after midnight for the
weak ones. After the day of Eid the time of throwing the pebbles starts
after noon but not before, though sorne scholars deemed such to be
permissible. It is also permissible to throw the pebbles at night if the
place is very crowded during the day. If one is not able to perform this
act by himself because of sickness, old age, or because very young,
one can appoint a proxy to do it for him. A proxy can throw the
pebbles of the one he represents after he has thrown his own. There is
no need to go and come back again. Once a Haji completes the
Jamara! (the throwing ofthe pebbles at the pillars), he is free to leave,
or stay for the night of the 13th. It is advised that the performance of
throwing the pebbles be after the noon prayer as it was reported that
the Prophet ~ had done so.
When a Haji thereafter intends to depart Makkah, he shall have to do
the Tawaf Al-Wida' (the farewell circumambulation). No one shall be
pardoned from this practice except the women who are menstruating or
in the period of discharge following childbirth. These women should
not even come close to the mosque's gates or stand by them.
This is the description of the performance of the Pilgrimage. So fear
Alláh the best you can and obey His commandments. Alláh ~ said:

;¿ '.7 ~0~
\.!.... '-? ... .. ~Jf:=~~1~2j~:;i~~Óíj0riJ~
. . . . -1-/..... ... ce . . . . . .

[; ~~~) :~ -1 8-'
¡ f .. • ~L,JlI/·íi:""L-1":~í"·'-:-"i~~';J
r--'" ~.~ r-r l7-' .!J -/
o-~/
~.:,:"j~"
I .' • /c-:-¡~\ /í/i~I'~'''¡;/'
'---" \ \~. ~""/"/''t¡-\
\ . . ~ • " / ¡ , .. "n
'.
_,.-.J O~_" ...,..-lo.' ,,2J~ ~ ~~¡0+9...v

Á - -/iÍr..:.~/jt i~~/ t: ... / ~i ~."

'~ / _ .".~ • ~~-lJ !.J.JJ-:-'J~
r-
-.» ~--:-::

"And proclaim to mankind the Hajj (pilgrimage). They will

come to you on foot and on every lean camel, they will come
from every deep and distant (wide) mountain highway (to
Pilgrimage - Ha}} 252

perform Ha}}). That they may witness things that are of benefit
to them (i.e., reward of Hajj in the Hereafter, and also sorne
worldly gain from trade), and mention the Name of Alláh on
appointed days (i.e., 10th, 11th, 12th, and 13th day of
Dhul-Hijjah), over the beast of cattle that He has provided for
them (for sacrifice), [at the time of their slaughtering by saying:
(Bismilláh, Walláhu-Akbar, Alldhumma Minka wa llaik)]. Then
eat thereof and feed therewith the poor having a hard time. Then
let them complete their prescribed duties (Mandsik of Ha}}) and
perform their vows, and circumambulate the Ancient House (the
Ka'bah at Makkah)." (22:27-29)
May Alláh bless you and me with the verses of the Noble Qurán, and
benefit us with its signs, proofs and wisdom.
Bidding Farewell to the year 253

Bidding Farewell to the Year

All praise is for Alláh ~ Who made the sun a shining glory and the
moon as a light and measured out for it stages that you might know the
number of years and the count of time. All praise is for Alláh ~ Who
made the day and the night alternate in succession for any one that
wishes to remember or presents his gratitude. 1 bear witness that there
is no god worthy ofworship except Alláh Alone having no partner. To
Him belongs the dominion of the universe. From Him was the
beginning and to Him will be the end and return. 1 bear witness that
Muhammad ~ is His slave and Messenger, who was the best man to
worship Alláh ~ and surrender to Him. May the peace, and blessings
of Alláh ~ be upon him, his family, his Companions and upon any one
that follows in their footsteps until the Day of Recompense.
O servants of Alláh, fear Alláh and contemplate these days and nights,
for they are but phases (of time) that you pass through to the life of the
Hereafter until you reach your 'final destination'. Every passing day
draws you closer to the Hereafter and away from this life. He who
takes advantage of the opportunities of these days and nights avails by
doing what gets him closer to his Lord and he will be successful.
Blessed is he who is preoccupied in these days obeying his Lord and
avoiding sins. Blessed is he who learns from their lessons and the
changes that occur on their passage. Blessed is he who realizes the
effects of Alláb 's Might in causing the alterations of life and what they
entail ofwisdom and secrets. Alláh ~ says:

~P;\iíJN~~~~-!Ll~QG-kJí~í.~l~ ~
"Alláh causes the night and the day to succeed each other (i.e., if
the day is gone, the night comes, and if the night is gone, the day
comes, and so on). Truly, in this is indeed a lesson for those who
have insight." (24:44)
O my brothers, have you not observed the sun rising every morning in
the East and setting every evening in the West? Have you not
contemplated this phenomenon? How the days are fluctuating between
Bidding Farewell to the year 254

sunrise and sunset until the end when everything vanishes. Have you
not noticed the phases of the moon throughout the month? The moon
first appears at the beginning ofthe lunar month as a tiny crescent and
it starts growing like bodies do until it reaches a stage in which it
beco mes a full moon. Then it starts shrinking and diminishing.
Likewise, is the human life. So be admonished, if you have reasoning.
Have you not witnessed these years, renewing year after year? Once a
new year starts, man would perceive the end of the year as being far
away. Then the days proceed rapidly, one after another until the year
ends as quickly as a blink of the eye. Likewise, one may perceive
human life as long whereas in reality it passes quickly and death comes
and takes the soul by surprise:
-1Í.J. .,:J. /?-'¡/":"'I-:'-:'ií .·/rl~/r/· í//~
~~~~ \,A~')~~Y~ ~.J~_•••q"':.,)~~J r

"And the stupor of death will come in truth. This is what you
have been avoiding." (50: 19)
Man would perhaps hope for a long life and comfort himselfwith such
hopes. But the reality is different when these hopes mean nothing and
what man has based on them will be destroyed.
O people, in these days you are bidding farewell to ayear that has
passed and is kept as witness of everything you have done. You are
also receiving a new year. If only I could know what you have
deposited in this last year and how you may receive this New Year.
For this, one should hold himself accountable for everything he has
done and thus inspect his actions. If he finds that he has neglected his
duties, he shall have to repent to Alláh ~ and make amends. But if he
finds that he has been a sinner and that he has wronged himself, he
must then stop sinning and violating the prohibitions immediately
befo re his set term is due or then it will be too late. If he finds that he
has been a well-doer and a righteous person, then he ought to praise
Alláh ~, his Lord, and ask Him to keep him firm on the straight path
until his death, for Alláh ~ is the one who bestowed His rnercy upon
him.
My brothers' Faith is not by wishes or beautification. Repentance is
Bidding Farewell fa the year 255

not only by words without being translated into action, which should
entail quitting the sin repented for. Faith is the belief in the heart,
which should also translate into actions. Repentance is the feeling of
regret for what was committed ofwrongdoings and sins. It is further to
retum to Alláh ~ and to correct the deeds as well as to fear Him and
realize that He is watching you whenever you do any deed. Thus, you
achieve true Iman and penance before it is too late, when you become
helpless and unable to do anything in this regard.
The Prophet ~ admonished aman and advised him this important
advice:
/1'; ~t:.::.:
<..r."' ••
/1'; ~ , ::: 1»
crr": <..r."' r~
,. .-
p
'-: ,
: Jw ~
.J
~ t ;I¡ ~/
_~ c...s-:-'
.. , .J
... ~, ... ... ................ . . o/""'''''''''' . . . ... II ....- ......... ,......... ....- .....

,~
/ or
1'. ,,~J.i:Y /
.r.J ,.:l.' 1'• .:Il;j./
~<..r."' /.J
,~
/
1'. ~ /
r..r.-' /.J
,¿V
//>
. ((~' / /1'; ~t;;./
~ <..r."' • .J
"Take advantage of five (i.e., by doing good deeds and making
amends for the bad ones) before another five befall you. Take
advantage of your youth before you grow old, your health before
you become ill, your wealth before you become poor, your free
time before you become busy, and your life before it is time for
you to die."
Young people have more power and strength than old people. When
man grows weaker his strength will deteriorate. When man is healthy
he is active and capable of doing many things. However, when he is
sick he becomes weak and incapable of doing what he used to do when
healthy. A rich person has the luxury of doing things, travelling and
achieving many of his goals. Yet when he becomes poor, he becomes
busy with trying to provide sustenance for himself, his children and his
family. In life, man has the opportunity to do a lot of good deeds. The
doors of repentance and accomplishments are wide open, but only for
as long as he is alive. However, when he dies he is no longer able to
make amends and do more good deeds. A dead person is a helpless
person compared to the one who still has the chance in this life.
Bidding Farewell to the year 256

o servants of Alláh! Take the benefits of this admonishment and do

not waste what is left of your life as you have done up until now.
Death is inevitable, everyone of us shall taste its bittemess. AH of us
are departing this life for the hereafter. Yet, are we going to leam this
lesson and make up for what we have lost by making amends and
doing the good deeds before it is too late? It is a matter of appreciating
the moments that we live. AIHih ~ says:

"Surely, your Lord is AIHih Who created the heavens and the
earth in six Days and then rose over (Istawa) the Throne (in a
manner that suits His Majesty), disposing the affair of aH things.
No intercessor (can plead with Him) except after His Leave.
That is AIHih, your Lord; so worship Him (Alone). Then, will
you not remember? To Him is the return of all of you. The
Promise óf AIHih is true. It is He Who begins the creation and
then will repeat it, that He may reward with justice those who
believed (in the Oneness of AIHih - Islámic Monotheism) and
did deeds of righteousness. But those who disbelieved will have
a drink of boiling fluids and painful torment because they used
to disbelieve. It is He Who made the sun a shining thing and the
moon as a light and measured out for it stages that you might
know the number of years and the reckoning. AIHih did not
create this but in truth. He explains the Ayát (proofs, evidences,
verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) in detail for people who
Bidding Farewell lo the year 257

have knowledge. Verily, in the alternation of the night and the

day and in all that Alláh has created in the heavens and the earth
are Aydt (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations,
etc.) for those people who keep their duty to Alláh, and fear Him
much." (10:3-6)
May Alláh ~ bless us all with His Book and benefit us with its Áyat
and wisdom. By this, 1 conclude my speech and ask Alláh ~ to forgive
all our wrongdoings. Seek His forgiveness as He is the AH Forgiving,
Most Merciful.
Chapter 4

Behavior and

Good Manners

Countering bad deeds with good deeds and love ... 261

Countering bad deeds with good

deeds and love among the Muslims
AH praise is for Alláh ~ who promised a great reward for those who
retum bad behavior with goodness. 1 praise and thank Him ~ for the
good days and for the bad days. 1 testify that there is no god worthy of
worship except Alláh Alone, having no partners and 1 testify that
Muhammad is His slave and Messenger, the finality of all the
Messengers and the best of all of the Prophets. May the peace and
blessings of Alláh be upon him, his family and Companions.
1 thus proceed: O servants of Alláh! Good conduct has a very
important role in countering the influence and outcome of misconduct.
It erases its bad impact and heals every wound and hard feeling it may
have spawned. For this reason Alláh ~ directs His servants to retum
every bad deed with a good one. He says:
,,(~~, ~Jí~ /~\j~J~~:í"
'" ::- ~ .... .... . . . L
"Repel evil with that which is better." (23:96)
He also says:
A ~~ ; ~\ -'~!"v~/ //
"'\......~¿:;jf'1:> o.J~i':-:{J
johO x.¡;_.i.S~.:1~\ \-:'1-:'
J.
.Jo.;·f ; .ií·<·~)..
.).\9W--I~&~1Ú..l\r
.... ... ..... .... -L.

"Repel (the evil) with that which is better (Le., Alláh orders the
faithful believers to be patient at the time of anger, and to excuse
those who treat them badly) then verily he, between whom and
you there was enmity, (will become) as though he was a close
friend." (41 :34)
The interpretation of this Áyah suggests that when you extend a hand
of good gesture to the person who has wronged and insulted you, this
attitude will push him to reconcile and thus build an awe of respect and
passion in his heart towards you. Then he may become a close friend
that cares about you and sympathizes with you. Requiting misconduct
with good conduct, or action, is a great virtue that only special people
can attain. They are the true servants of Alláh ~, who took upon
Countering bad deeds with good deeds and love ... 262

themselves to control their ego and thus their anger. It takes a lot of
self-constraint for a person to force himself to not retaliate and take
revenge for himself. Consequently, this exertion of such an attitude
will lead the person to alife of happiness, satisfaction, piety and
felicity in this life and the Hereafter. This willlead to the establishment
of a pious and healthy society.
The desire for revenge is naturally instilled in mankind. However, if
man goes against this instinct and desire and follows the
commandments of his Lord by repaying abad deed or conduct with a
good one, he shall be among those whom Alláh ~ raises in status. In
this regard, Alláh ~ says praising and hailing them:
.,q '", -' &.:Jí ~14
"'t:~., _ \~t• ~-'~ }..
T
"But none is granted it (the aboye quality) except those who are
patient." (41: 35)
No one shall achieve this high status except those who persevere in
dealing with ill-mannered people and in withstanding their mischief.
Alláh ~ says:

"And none is granted it except the ownerof the great portion (of
happiness in the Hereafter, i.e., Paradise and of a high moral
character) in this world." (41:35)
Their happíness in this life will be the love, consideration, and
attention they get from people. You could hardly find an enemy
conspiring against them. This happiness is truly the dream of every
living creature on the face of the planet throughout his or its course of
life.
As for happiness in the Hereafter, sorne of the Sala! (our pious
predecessors) interpreted the meaning of ~ .k.- Hazin Azeem (The
Great Fortune) as Paradise. Then the meaning of the aforementioned
verse will be that no one shall rise to the level of this great virtue
except he who deserves to be in Paradise in the Hereafter.
 Countering bad deeds with good deeds and love ... 263

o servants of Alláh! Paradise is sufficient to be your ultimate goal and

happiness. Alláh ~ described it after listing the qualities of the
benevolent believers and their great virtues. He says:
~"":'/.I,< .-';"~\ií4.-':¿' p-:).~,1np P-;; '''! •..P:').~-:''''',;I-(í1 ~
~(.:.¿'~..rt'" / ~-'>~~.Jr+;.J~ b~t.J'? ~.J'"

_//
.d:~í
~
.-'p1 . .
r:- ~.J
P .....

"Por such, the reward is forgiveness from their Lord, and

Gardens with rivers flowing underneath (Paradise), wherein they
shall abide forever. How excellent is this reward for the doers
(who do righteous deeds according to Alláh' s Orders)." (3: 136)
On the contrary, the obscene and indecent person whom people avoid
because of his obscenity, lack of restraint in his language, slanderous
and repugnant behavior shall have nothing of the matters of his life
straight. He deserves no pass ion and no one shall love him, look after
him, defend him, or pay attention to his interests. Consequently, he
will be among the losers, being ostracized and alienated in the society,
besides his loss in the Hereafter.
This type of person is the one referred to in the great warning given by
the Prophet ~ in a Hadith that says:

.(9 :~\ ;:"'(1)...s:; ~ ~~\ ry';J-f

;',.,-r;; /.'" ,.,
r\ :IJ-:?
" t J S / , , " .. "
~ 01))
"

"Verily, of the worst positions on Judgement Day are those

designated for the ones whom people avoid because of their
obscenity (or wickedness)."
The warning in the Hadith applies to this person regardless of his
position in this life, whether he is an important person or otherwise. He
will still be avoided for his obscenity. Another narration says:
~ /. 'lZl))
. «~.r <­

" ... to protect themselves from his evil."

In another Hadith it states:
jJ\: DI • w\ ..ov.&\ 01))
;''' ..... ,., ::í ",., /";' "
.« ·~;\L). \C'..-;
~~r-:~, ~/. cr": ~ "
"Verily Alláh detests the person who is vulgar and obscene, and
Countering bad deeds with good deeds and love ... 264

who speaks with obscenity."

In another Hadith, the Messenger of AWih~ explains the situation of
Al-Muflis saying:
Ib</~ -"VólS"'/ó~¡::;tiJ¡/O/:G-"/
r '-I- ..J.).J. ~ / -/ ¡Y-. cr" l.p" ~ ~ '1~'-'1)) A-·
~ \J;, ~~j ,\J;, ~~) \J;, r; ¿j~ /') ¡J;, J~ jSt) ¡J;, ..=.;jj)
"'" {. /' <Óo 0'-;,.. /' J) /'" -" /

~ l.,,:..\~~ ··'011'O'4,j"L.::.::..;..\--'·;0l..9,4,j"L.::.::..;..~ \..u./4,j"L.::.::..;..

~ / /- ~ tJ7 -/ ~ // ~ .J //

((/-JI J cf ~ ~ ::.;.~ ~~~

"The bankrupted person of my nation is he who comes on
Judgement Day with prayer and charity. But he a1so comes, after
having cursed this person accused this person falsely, usurped
the property of this person, shed the blood of this person and
assaulted this persono Then this person will be given from his
good deeds and that person will also be given from his good
deeds, until he has no more good deeds in his book (so as to pay
back al! his debtors). He will then be given from their sins, and
finally will be thrown into the Fire of Hel!."
O servant of Alláh! It isa sufficient loss that will not be atoned for. So
fear Alláh ~ and never accuse or slander anyone in any way or
method, for it will indeed lead you to the ruin ofyour life on this earth
and the Hereafter. Return every bad deed or insult with a good one
looking forward to achieving the virtue of such an attitude, which
Alláh ~~ prompts us to have and attain. He, the Most High, says:

"And verily, whosoever shows patience and forgives, that would

truly be from the things recommended by Alláh." (42:43)
May Alláh ~ benefit you and me with the guidance of His Book. By
this 1 conclude my speech and ask Alláh ~ to forgive me, you and a1\
Muslims. So seek His forgiveness, He is the All-Forgiving, the AII­
Merciful.
Safeguarding the Trust 265

Safeguarding the Trust

All praise is for Alláh ~ who put the Trust in the hearts of men after
the heavens, earth and mountains had declined to bear it. He put the
trust in the hearts of the children of Adam, males and females because
he had created within them intellects and reasoning, with which they
understood, and hearts and souls, with which they were guided. For
this they endured the trust with all the risks it entailed. They did so to
attain the level ofthe righteous believers as they safeguard and convey
this trust. Yet, if they waste it and neglect it, they shall fall to the
lowest ofthe low.
1 bear witness that there is no god worthy of worship except Alláh
Alone, having no partners. He the God of the first of the people and the
last ofthe people. He created and perfected His creation. Verily, He is
the Judge and the All- Wise. 1 bear witness that Muhammad is His
slave and Messenger who conveyed the message, fulfilled his trust in
the most perfect manner, and worshipped his Lord until the time of his
death. May the peace and blessings of Alláh ~ be upon him, his
family, his Companions and every one who follows on their footsteps
until the Day of Recompense.
O servants of Alláh! Fear Alláh, the Most High, and fulfill the trust
you were entrusted with. Alláh ~ had offered the Amanah (the trust)
to the heavens, the earth, and the mountains, but they declined to bear
it and were afraid of it. Yet, man agreed to bear it; he was indeed
unjust and ignorant.
O servants of Alláh! Fulfill the trust that you agreed to bear by doing
what Alláh ~ ordered you to do. Worship Him and fulfill His rights
over you. Do not betray Alláh ~ and His Messenger, nor betray
knowingly the trusts that were entrusted to you. Exceeding the proper
bounds of this trust, as well as neglecting it, lead to betraying it.
Betrayal of trust is a defect in the faith and a cause for loss and
deprivation. The Prophet ~ said:

.((~J~~~ ~0~l~))
Safeguarding the Trust 266

"He has no faith who cannot keep a trust."

He also said:
,Z)~ ¿Jjl 111J ,~ J;:J 111J ,";'J5 ::.,1;. \11 : ~51} ~eJl ~í))
.((~ ~tt ~j:; r~:; )..;, ~1J
"The signs of a hypocrite are three: when he speaks, he lies;
when he promises, he reneges; and when he is entrusted (with
something), he betrays (it). Even if he prays, fasts, and claims to
be a Muslim (he still is a hypocrite)."
The Prophet ~ also said:
:J~.~ ':.\/,: )~Li. ~I(-: -:,.j.~ ¡;,wJl /./ ~
.r; • / ~ 1..... J. / • / ¡Y-
-:'W ~ \~~\~.&\ / / /
0"'-? J ~J ~!:
11\))
. ... '
• ((.:.> ')\.; 0') JS. o..u.
Jo c'­

/ /

"When Alláh gathers the first of the people and the last of the
people on the Day of Resurrection, he will raise a flag for every
betrayer; then it will be said: this is the betrayal of such and such
a person."
To his regret and disgrace, this flag will be raised for the betrayer to
expose him in front of all the people.
O Muslims, trust is in worship, transactions and behavior. Keeping the
trust in worship is by obeying Alláh ~ with pure intention, following
His Messenger ~, abiding by His orders, avoiding His prohibitions,
and fearing Him openly and secretly. You should fear Alláh ~
regardless of whether people can see you or noto So do not be one of
those who fear Him in the open, but when you are alone you disobey
Him. That is indeed Ar-Riyaa' (being dishonest in your intention by
showing off). Do you not know that Alláh ~ knows the fraud of the
eyes and all that the breasts conceal? Do you not know that Alláh ~
disapproved of those who behave that way? He ~ says:
"'" ~{;---/. 'J'~~/;\~ ~~\/.--:/ .~-: ~"--:;jGt-:, ~/'/'¡:l..
"'<:: u~ rr- '.JJ <f. ~ftJ ~..r: ~ u.r.--S: i J"

"Or do they think that We hear not their secrets and their private

counsel? Yes, and Our messengers are by them, to record." (43:80)

Safeguarding the Trust 267

~5~C:J0~C:~~í~~;:í:_ ~jf"
"Know they (Jews) not that Alláh knows what they conceal and
what they reveal?" (2:77)
,
~2s"'J. .llUlU~';>~~~.J~ ~u~ :i.J~\.:.J ~u~
,t.. '-: "\""
--:'/.jl ..... --:~"'/"?"I ",Jo,;'","'> ... -::'T/ -:~:-::~ . . ,,:,~::;:.-/ ~
7

.LL1J5;l-;
"'\_/
:-;~
_,..
-,.a;í 0~.J J '~rí
/"""'

"They may hide (their crimes) from men, but they cannot hide
(them) from Alláh; for He is with them (by His Knowledge),
when they plot by night in words that He does not approve. And
Alláh ever encompasses what they do." (4:108)
In behavior, to keep the trust is to treat people the way you like them to
treat you, being sincere to you, as you would do. It is also to safeguard
their rights, whether related to money or other things, which you are
being entrusted with. Between a husband and a wife, keeping the trust
is that each one of them should safeguard the other' s property and
secrets. Every husband and every wife must keep what occurs between
them in terms of the intimate relations secret. No one else should know
about it. In an authentic Hadith, the Prophet ~ was reported saying:
. '.:, d,' \J'\ . '.~ ~l~~ I¡ ~t:.;J1 .&1 ~ ~ /'1: 0\))
..:JI
,-t~J//J" ~~u-:-J' / -, ¡Y-,
/o,

''!' 8\ .r: ~ t
"" .J, ..... -¡. o .J

,>..r: w...l..>l 0 «:» r-',

. (("->-l...<o ~ ~ ~

"One of the worst people on the Day of Judgement is the man

who would have intimate relations with his wife and she would
have the same with him, then both of them or one of them would
disclose the secrets of his partner. (Meaning: what had occurred
between them)."
The husband and wife would trust one another not to disclose their
private and intimate relationship between them, yet one ofthem would
betray this trust. Or one of the two would confide something that he or
she would not like anyone else to know, to the other, however the other
spouse would disclose it to other people. This is not only applied to
couples, it also applies to friends in terms of one confiding something
to another. In this regard, a narration states that:
Safeguarding the Trust 268

.((t0 ~ ,/. -;'j¡ rJ ~~.~) y..~\ ¿,i;. \~l))

"If aman tells another something and turos his (face) around,
then (this thing) is a trust."
As he would not turo his face around if this talk was not a secret that
he wanted no one to hear.
Trust is also involved in transactions and commercial exchange, which
include buying, selling and renting, The seller should not betray the
buyer in terms of increasing the price, covering the defects of the
commodity, cheating on describing the commodity or reducing the
weight or measure. On the other hand the buyer must not betray the
seller by taking sorne of the price off, defaulting on the debt, or
procrastinating in paying his dues while he is able to payo The renter
must not betray the rentor by taking away sorne of the utilities or
facilities that were agreed on to be provided in the rent contract.
Likewise, the tenant should not cheat the renter by reducing the rent
amount, declining to pay it or destroying something in the rented item
whether a house, a shop, a machine, or a vehicle.
In proxies, the trustee must keep the trust by taking on all the
responsibilities involved in this proxy. He should do everything that
benefits his client. For instance, a trustee should not sell the
commodity (the object of the proxy) for a lower price than its real
value for the purpose of pleasing the buyer. If the proxy involves
buying something, the trustee must not buy it for a price that is higher
than its real value just to please the seller. Every person in charge of
any department or holding any responsibility is a trustee. He, therefore;
must safeguard this trust. A judge is a trustee, a governor is a trustee,
the directors and managers of any departments are also trustees. They
all must take on the responsibilities that are involved in these trusts and
manage them in a manner that will benefit and safeguard these trusts
all according to their utmost abilities, The guardians of orphans, the
trustees of Waqf(administrators ofIslamic endowments), and the legal
guardians that implement the wills are all trustees who must attend to
the responsibilities oftheir trusts to the best of their abilities.
Safeguarding the Trust 269

Trust is also involved in the education process at schools. Those who

are in charge, whether they are directors, supervisors, or principals,
should keep in mind the issue of fulfilling their trusts and duties. This
may be done by selecting useful textbooks and hiring the pious and
righteous teachers who care about teaching the students every useful
material, be it religious studies, science, and other subjects and looking
after them in terms of behavior, discipline, conduct and Islamic duties.
Another trust should also be kept in this regard; that is how to protect
the school exams from being tampered with and to insure the fair
preparation of these exams. For example, the level of understanding
and learning of the students must be taken into consideration by those
who prepare the exams, so that the exams will suit the students'
intellectual and learning abilities. Two kinds of exams might harm and
cause more detriment than good. First, the exam that is beyond the
students' level of learning and understanding and second is the exam,
which is less than their leve!. The first may make many students fail
and thus waste a whole year and the second may hurt the general level
of education for the whole country. During the exam, the supervisors
must be alert regarding any attempt at cheating among the students.
Keeping the trust in education also means that no student shall receive
preferential treatment for any reason, because if this happens, the
student himself will be the one getting hurto All of the students in the
exam hall are the responsibility and the trust of the supervisor.
According to him, all the students are equal. No special attention
should be given to any of them on the expense of the other students.
In the process of correcting these exams, the correctors must be
accurate and the correcting process must be done according to the
standards of the system, so that no one will be oppressed or mistreated
at the expense of others. By this each student will get the result he
earned.
If we keep this trust at al! three of its levels, this will benefit the whole
nation. This will also benefit every person involved in the process: the
supervisors in charge as they fulfill their duties and the students who
will thereby reach the high level of education and knowledge and not
Safeguarding the Trust 270

just receive a certificate or a title. Keeping the trust in the end will
benefit the knowledge itself in that it will be strengthened and
increased.
The number of students who pass the exams shall not be that important
because the main concem should be quality not quantity. If there are
fewer students that pass this year, next year there will be more,
because the students will take the matter more seriously.
May Alláh ~ guide us to fulfill the trust and successfully bear the
responsibility we have upon uso May He prevent us frorn falling into
betraying the trust or neglecting it. With this, I conclude and ask Alláh
~ to forgive our sins. Seek his forgiveness, for He is the All­
Forgiving, the All-Merciful.
Modesty (1) 271

Modesty (1)

All praise is for Alláh who adomed his Awliyd' (friends) with Taqwa
and granted them the best of qualities and virtues. Alláh ~ had
disciplined the Prophet ~ and made him the most modest and humble
of all people. I bear witness that there is no god worthy of worship
save Alláh Alone, having no partners, and that Muhammad is His
slave and Messenger. May peace and blessings be upon him, his
family, his Companions and those who follow on their footsteps until
Day ofRecompense.
O servants of Alláh ~! Islam is a religion of superb morality, which
calls to the virtuous manners and instills in the soul the values of
modesty and virtue. The Prophet ~ made it clear to everyone that he
was sent to complete the virtuous manners when he said:
/ ,~ / ./t ~,~ /
. ((~Jl>. 'ji r!~ ~'j 0 ~l))
"1 was sent for the sole purpose of completing the virtuous
manners."
Islam has come to fight vice and all reprehensible actions, prohibiting
aH sins inwardly and outwardly. The purpose ofIslam is to establish a
clean and virtuous society in which sin, crime and motives for
obscenity and evil do not existo The society that is based on the
Islamic teachings shall be a clean society that is free of lewdness,
rudeness and immorality. Islam has long struggled to establish such a
clean society, which is based on modesty being its core quality and
virtue. Modesty is at the head of all virtuous manners and at the core
of the branches of faith. With modesty, religion is complete, life is
appropriate, virtue is dominant and vice is abolished.
Al-Haya' (modesty) is the title of Islam, the proof for the faith, and the
guide for man to attain goodness and guidance. The Prophet ~ said:
• (1
r~
e ~ '1\;'-:f'.-.
.'t:; ':I ~t;jl))
•
"Modesty brings nothing but good."
Modesty (1) 272

He also said:
.... ........ .....,.; ..,.;. o

. (('J ~l;> 'i ~ .:JL::l 'i J ~L::~I ~ ;;~: " ~t;JI))

"Modesty is a branch of Faith. He who has no modesty, has no
Faith."
If a person is endowed with modesty, it will be a sign of his good
conduct and behavior, his righteousness, the purity ofhis intuition and
the completeness of his faith. On the other hand, when a person lacks
modesty, he is indeed deprived of a lot of good and is suffering a great
loss.
Modesty is the feeling of rejection for every disgraceful matter. It is a
quality instilled in man to deter him frorn indulging in everything his
soul desires, so as not to become like an animal. Therefore, modesty is
a deterrent from committing sinful deeds. It prevents man frorn doing
anything disgraceful no matter how minor it is. It is the base for every
virtue and goodness. It is also immunity against every vice and evil.
Referring to this, the Praphet ~ said:
o..... .J.J .J ",.J .J ~ J ,;

. «~t;;J\ i JL:,~ \ ~J .lA.G:- -:T-: ~ .:J lli

,
"Verily, every religion has a nature and the nature of Islam is
­
modesty."
, ...-/ 1) .J '" ....J ,...-.... .....J .....
: l\lO
y .~t;J¡
_ ~J.:.s;. '<.1.; ~.&I
, .r: _o , J, .r:y,. J
J.:.s;.
,
G : JL; cr L:;I·· ;;'..9 (~~
-~ -..r. J
~.1
- '
J

J')) :~,.&\ J.?j Jli; ~-!-lJ\ ~ ~t:;J\ ,.&\ J.?j~

a .J"" o O ,...­

. (r.]s ~lJ\ y.
It was narrated on the authority of Qurrah bin Iyas ~ that he
said: "We were with the Prophet ~ when he mentioned Al­
Haya '." The Companions said, 'O Messenger of Alláh ~ is
modesty a part of religion?' The Prophet ~ replied: "Rather, it
is the whole religion."
Modesty is the whole religion because it leads to the perfect morals
and to the virtuous deeds. The Prophet ~ used to be more shy than a
virgin in her private rooms, He was so shy that one could tel1 if the
Praphet ~ had seen something that he hated from the look on his face.
He had the most sensitive nature of al1 people, the noblest life and the
 Modesty (1) 273

deepest feelings of responsibility. He was also the farthest frorn all

vices and disgraceful matters. This sensitivity is illustrated in the
following Hadith:
.';l':':~l\ . ~ ~ ~ <.' <&101- '5\.:J¡ ~ - 'l.' .// ','t))
\: p t./:. . -/ - _. d;. ~ i /- J7.¿7:; '-f!.~
..... ......... el el -¡.,. . . . 4 ..... __ -¡
..... ~..... o-¡'

((()\..:..~\ J; ~L.;. ~y ~~ 0\ i;:J\ ~ J\j\'~~ 0\

"It was narrated on the authority of Ibn 'Umar ~ that he called
on the Prophet ~ and found him crying. He asked him: "Why are
you crying, O Messenger of Alláh?" The Prophet ~ said: "1 was
told by Jibreel that Alláh feels shy to punish a slave (a Muslim)
whose hair tumed white while in Islam; so shouldn't this (person)
feel shy to sin after his hair tumed white while in Islam?"
Unfortunately, this Hadith applies to many of those whose hair has
tumed gray and are at the brink of their graves. Yet they are still
heedless. They still look forward to this life and to collecting as much
money as they can. They still do not pray, do not give their Zakát
1 dues, do not perform Hajj, or even remember Alláh ~. Moreover,
.they do not try to avoid sinning. How disgraceful, arrogant and
heedless can they be?
O servants of Alláhl If we look around us these days, we could notice
that modesty does not exist in this world except with those upon
whom Alláh ~ has bestowed His merey. The impact of modesty has
been taken away frorn the faces of men and women altogether. Hence,
the earth is filled with evil, vice, sins and immorality. Disgraceful acts
are being committed without restraint and without any feeling of
shyness or fear frorn Alláh ~.
One sees women going out of their homes half-naked everyday,
leaving no satanic method of seduction and temptation except that
they follow it. They have rushed to the streets, the public gatherings
and parties as if they were brides on their wedding night.
As for those who claim to be men, they have reached the highest
levels of immorality, rudeness, dishonor, and lack of jealousy so much
so that they have become like the worst kinds of animals. There is no
Modesty (1) 274

doubt that their hearts and souls have been transfonned into monkeys'
and pigs', even though they appear as humans.
If modesty goes, the whole religion will follow. And if both go, people
will burst out like wild and lost animals, not caring about anything but
their lusts and desires. For the sake of their desires and whims they
would regard as pennissible every prohibition. Without restraint, they
would indulge in fulfilling their lusts by any means without considering
any virtue, ethics, principies, or religion. It was narrated that Ibn Masud
~ said: The Messenger of Allflh:ji carne out one day, and said:
.f'
..'...t
, D

:4;J\/ -'; o ~ lJS

.J~ /
...tI Jy-"J.~ 8;
J /
o, o
,(~t;J1
/.
,...­
-. / ...tI
~/
~
~ ~
l' <. 1»
o

' . J·J\~01
~ ....
:~WI·;';"...tI~u,........ :~~I·<:lJ
,.... .. .. ,. . ~
,dl~
r"..;r,.... ,. -
/
~
Oí)) :J~
,.... -'.... ,..... CI , , ' o,.... " e

o:~ 'i\ ~\JÍ ~J • ~\J ¿, rJI JSliJ ,¡sy;.. ~J ¿,b:;JI J 'd-J ~J

. «~t;J\ J;. /...t\ ~ ~\ ~ ~~ ~ ¿;.; ,t;iJ\ ~t;J\ t;j ~j
"Be shy from Alláh as you should be!" We said: "O Messenger
of Alláhl We all are shy from Alláh, praise be to Him." The
Messenger :ji said: "That is not what 1 meant. Being shy frorn
Alláh is to preserve the head and what it contains, the stomach
and what it contains, and to remember death and disintegration.
Whoever looks forward to the Hereafter shall abandon the
garnish ofthis life, and he who does that is shy from Alláh in its
proper rnanner."
With this 1 conclude and ask Alláh ~ lo forgive all of our sins.
Therefore, seek His forgiveness, for He is the All Forgiving, the All
Merciful.
Modesty in the Jslamic Society (JI) 275

Modesty in the Islamic Society (11)

Al! praise is for Alláh ~, the Lord of the worlds, and peace and
blessings be upon the most honored ofthe Prophets and Messengers. I
testify that there is no god worthy of worship except Alláh ~ Alone
having no partners and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.

o servants of Alláh! The Messenger of Alláh ~ said:

;. "", ,;.;. p" ;. :::-;.-;;
. ( ~ t;;J\ ¡,>\..::y \~) ,w;.:. 0::: Js:¿ .:> P
/ ­
"Verily, every religion has a nature and the nature of Islam is
Modesty."
Islam is a religion based on ethics, virtues and modesty. It calls for
purity, chastity, and to raise oneself from obscenity and lewdness.
Modesty is a branch of faith and he who has no modesty, has no
religion.
In order to make modesty the nature of every Muslim man and
woman, and make purity and chastity the qualities of every believing
man and woman, Islam has exhorted the Muslims to be endowed with
virtuous and good manners and to cease indulging in sins and vices.
Moreover, Islam has forbidden women to be uncovered or indecent
and has protested all forms of lewdness, evil, and immorality in order
to make the Islamic society becorne an example for cleanliness,
chastity, modesty, virtue, honor and purity ofthe heart and soul.
O Muslims! To build its social life on the bases of modesty, virtue,
purity, and chastity, Islam has made it impermissible for women to
unveil or go out indecently. Furthermore, it shielded them with
modesty and honor to avert temptation, corruption, and to cut off all
causes of immorality, lewdness and deviation. Alláh ~ said:
.... &.lE.... ~ ..

~\:J ti ;álí ~~ j;'lí ~~~~';ií (0 $;;' ~J ~~ ~ z;.iJ ~

~~4tí~~~~í
Modesty in the Islamic Society (Il) 276

"And stay in your houses, and do not display yourselves Jike

that of the times of ignorance, and perform As-Salát
tIqamát-as-Saiáts, and give Zakát and obey AIHih and His
Messenger." (33:33)
This is Alláhs commandment regarding women. They should stay in
their homes and never allow a non-Mahram man (a stranger, not
elated to her) to see their bodies, or their adornments. If a woman has
to go out to the marketplace, she must appear modest, decent and with
reverence. In her home, a woman does her housework, fulfills her
marriage obligations, and religious obligations such as her prayers,
paying her Zakát and obeying AIHih ~ and His Messenger ~. Islam
realizes the great corruption that stems from men and women mixing.
Therefore, it forbade it and further prohibited men and women from
meeting or speaking without a screen or curtain between them. In this
regard, Alláh ~ said:

p;.
..~/
~~"\ "~i:i~" /, 1/- -1//
~ > yUf; ~C)J ~ ~
.r:
-:; ... :'i-:< \-":::/ ~ ... "~it/ \-:'\/ :l...
~ ~ ~~\..... ~~, j"
,
d.-:; ..../
","~~J
"And when you ask them (Prophet's wives, ladies) for anything
you want, ask them from behind a screen, that is purer for your
hearts and for their hearts." (33:53)
Moreover, Islam made obligatory upon women to wear Hijab (Islamic
clothing for women) and to cover their faces because the face is the
most beautiful part of a woman. Hence, it is a source of Fitna
(temptation) and seduction. Alláh ~ says:
( ~, ~/

~4))~~ ~4~ Z&j:1í ;~~ 4G'J' ~jS~Ji ~í C;.~,

"O Prophet! Tell your wives and your daughters and the women
ofthe believers to draw their cloaks (veils) all over their bodies
(i.e., screen themselves completely except the eyes or one eye
to see the way)." (33:59)
He also said:
Modesty in the Islamic Society (l/) 277

"And to draw their veils all over Juyúbihinna (i.e., their bodies,
faces, necks and bosoms)." (24:31)
In view of the aboye, one may wonder about the situation of the
Islamic society today. Anywhere a person goes, he will see women
unveiling and women dressed in a way as if they were undressed
except those upon whom Alláh ~ bestowed His merey. He will see
women displaying themselves for the purpose of temptation and for
showing off their beauty and charms. Such exposure of any woman
proves her lack of religion and modesty. It corrupts her, and thereby
the whole generation becomes corrupted and eventually the whole
nation. This problem has brought us disgrace, crime, tragedy and great
calamity, so much so that our life has turned into misery, suffering,
inferiority and lowness.
Cursed be a life in which honor is demeaned, jealousy and manhood
are abolished, and dignity and chastíty are annihilated. Where is honor
in such alife? Where is virtue? Where is modesty? Where is the
dignity of Muslim men and the integrity of the Muslims? Where are
jealousy and anger for the sake of Alláh? It is a great disgrace to see a
Muslim man in public with his wife or sister unveiled, displaying her
chest and neck and permitting other men (who are sick of heart) to
enjoy her beauty and ornaments.
Abu Usaid AI-Ansari es- 11 ~) said that he heard the Messenger of
Alláh (~) say when he was coming out of the mosque, and men and
women were mingling in the street:
"Withdraw, for you (women) must not walk in the middle ofthe
road (with the men). Keep to the sides ofthe road."
Then after that, the women used to keep so close to the wall that their
garments were ribbing against it. (Abu Ddwud)
O Alláh, we pray to You to keep us firm upon Your religion, thankful
for Your bounties and righteous worshippers of You. O Alláh, keep us
away from sins, evil and disgraceful manners. O Alláh, guide our
Modesty in the Islamic Society (11) 278

youth and make good our conclusion in all matters of this life. Protect
us from the disgrace of this life and the chastisement of the Hereafter.
Amin!
o servants of Alláh! Alláh commands justice, the doing of good, and
giving ro kith and kin, and He forbids all indecent behavior, and evil
and aggression. He instructs you, so that you may be admonished. So
keep remembrance of Alláh the Almighty, the Most High and Exalted,
and He will remember you. Thank Him for His endless favors and He
will provide you with more. Verily, remembering Him is the greatest
(thing). Alláh ~ is well acquainted with all that you do.
Merey 279

Merey
AII praise is for Alláh ~, the Lord of the worlds, the Most Graeious,
and the Most Mereiful. I bear witness that there is no god worthy of
worship exeept Alláh Alone having no partners, and I bear witness that
Muhammad is His slave and Messenger who was sent as a merey for
mankind and j inn. May the peaee and blessings of Alláh be upon him,
his family, his Companions, and those who follow his Sunnah, and eall
for his Shariah and who are mereiful among eaeh other until the Day
of Recompense.
O servants of Alláh! One of the virtues that the Messenger of Alláh ~
was endowed with and that Islam ealled for is the virtue of merey.
Merey is a gentle feeling in the heart of man that translates into
kindness in his behavior. It is a superb quality and nature that prompts
the emotion of man to be good and benevolent. Alláh ~ praised the
Messenger ~ who was sent with the virtuous manners, for having this
quality. He says:
~rL,/./
• • ..e ,...,. """"1'. 1"': I~::"'" {--- ",,,".Jo"'/ "r/f/IJ "'''''''.:A..
~~~~J'~\~~~j!Jr+J2.4;Ú ~}-..JY T
"And by the Merey of Alláh, you dealt with them gently. And
had you been severe and harsh-hearted, they would have broken
away from about you." (3: 159)
So he was the one who was sent as a merey to all the worlds; he was
sorry and sad to see anyone deprived of the light of Islam and the
tranquillity of faith. Alláh ~ said:
,.
~-r ~
"'.~ -- 1....
I.A
.-.... ~ ..... ~
~ .r.(f' \' ~ '" PI
-q.. »-I~"" ~~.:í'"
o: ~.r'..J {~ ..~
~-:í:'"
..ulJ ,.

s » 1: ».
»> »:" '. :~ít /L...-",.:l;:
~.Jo-'!';"..J-JJ"..J~jW ;.¡----::­

"Verily, there has come unto you a Messenger (Muhammad ~)

from amongst yourselves (Le., whom you know well). It grieves
him that you should reeeive any injury or diffieulty. He
(Muhammad ~) is anxious over you (to be rightly guided, to
repent to Alláh, and beg Him to pardon and forgive your sins in
Merey 280

order that you may enter Paradise and be saved from the
punishment of the Hell-fire); for the believers (he ~ is) full of
pity, kind, and mereiful." (9:128)
The eomprehensive and complete merey is the merey of Alláh, the
Most Merciful, and the All-Mighty. His merey has eneompassed all
ereatures. Nothing exists exeept due to the merey of Alláh ~. Alláh ~
says:

"And My Merey embraces all things." (7: 156)

He also says:

"Our Lord! You eneompass all things in merey and knowledge."

(40:7)
Alláh ~ ereated us from no exístenee and made it easy for us to live in
this life, on His earth and under His heavens. He eaused the rivers to
flow, the plants and trees to grow and give fruits, and he eaused day
and night to alternate. He furthermore provided us with ample favors
and bounties of whieh if one íntends to eount, he will attempt to do so
in vain because Alláh ' s favors and bounties are eountless. Alláh S~
says:
~.
'; "(\ :> 1 ....--:1\· • \ í'-
"'" ... /' lo:: ... 1.
~"./' '"iÍ °l:"."":k..
~-'""" ~ ~> 0~ -i-.Y' ..La: .f..J.J -.f. ~ ;úl\ ~..J -1'1.. ~l ~ 1..9 J"
o, ' o / '.:;..,'\ o, / o'

~~~;~¡ &;.~
"Look then at the effeets (results) of Alláh's Merey, how He
revives the earth after íts death. Verily, that (Alláh) (Who
revived the earth after its death) shall indeed raise the dead (on
the Day of Resurreetion), and He is Able to do all things."
(30:50)
1./ //
~,. J;l">>J"/ '// ...... /
. """
4

~
o'"' '''/ /
'J
«:
~.
L"
¡'· ........-t "",
".J.,
~ ~J
4....9
,_,
.~>
\. o·"'",..J"+""'.J
...........
I.:q' , \
_
l/_~.c-:
o-r-r L" : ) ~J

~~~
Merey 281

"It is out of His Merey that He has made for you the night and
the day that you may rest therein (i.e., during the night) and that
you may seek of His Bounty (i.e., during the day) - and in
order that you may be grateful." (28:73)

~ ..c,;:;. ..:r..
L;' F-- ( • ~~ -- .,~-- ~ ... f{/~- ¡J'.. L;:tíJ:.
_.Jr--~. ~ :J'
¿g:JL::~Jt.:;
~ .
"
s > /'( .-::.¿.~ • .!~--::·icr""'~
",,\..;:.;..I~ "~"'~-J..J~r---1".Z.) "­
"And your Lord is Rich (Free of all needs), full of merey; if He
wills, He can destroy you, and in your place make whom He
wills as your successors, as He raised you frorn the seed of other
people." (6: 133)
The Messenger of Alláh ~ carried the torches of guidance and the light
of faith. He showed the people the way of life and the methodology by
which they would have a righteous life and by which their hopes
would come true. It is the methodology that would make them
successful and happy in the Hereafter and ensure their future in it. This
guidance was but another favor of Alláhs many favors upon them. It
was also a merey that would protect them from being ruined and
misguided. In an address to Maryam ¡')LJI ~ regarding her son Isa ~
¡')Ui, Alláh ~ said:

~~t.:__
';";';:J ::.u ~ óí__ ~\:!~--~."
t;..N .'
.
~> A"
.~..J ~ ~í~. ~ .'..> j~~iirj~
(J" ... __
__ "
nf.\~ ,ni;
""\. (1
__ .7'"
"He said: 'So (it will be), your Lord said: That is easy for Me
(Alláh), And (We wish) to appoint him as a sign to mankind and
a merey frorn Us (Alláh), and it is a matter (already) decreed (by
AI1iih).'" (19:21)
When Alláh ~ decided to conc1ude and sea1 Bis messages to mankind,
perfect Bis religion for them, and complete His favor upon them; he
sent the seal of the Messengers, Muhammad ~, who is the Imam of the
guided ones. Be was sent as merey for those who were guided, and for
all mankind. Alláh ~ said:
nf./. í,/¡i-:--·--j ./.'Í »r /;. ..., ,)..
""\~.u-.JJ~~-I\ Lo..> 7'
Merey 282

"And We have sent you (O Muhammad ~) not but as a merey

for the 'Alamín (mankind, jinn and all that exists)." (21: 107)
Likewise, the Noble Qur'án, whieh is Alláh's great sign, and Islam's
eternal miracle, eame as eure, guidanee and merey for what is in the
heart. In this regard, Alláh ~ says:

"And We have sent down to you the Book (the Qur'án) as an

exposition of everything, a guidanee, a merey, and glad tidings
for those who have submitted themselves (to Alláh as
Muslims)." (16:89)
The mission of the eallers to Alláh ~, though rt 1S a dangerous
mission, requires an ample reserve of merey, kindness, and patienee.
For this reason, the master of the eallers to Alláh ~, Muhammad was
eharaeterized with a heart full of merey and affeetion. He was a
Messenger who had wished guidanee and goodness for all humanity.
He treated mereifully every human being, whether a ehild, an old man,
a believer, or even a disbeliever. His life story earried within its days,
nights, and moments great examp1es of good eonduet, kind behavior,
gentleness and passion towards everyone who happened to see him.
There was a story about a nomad who ealled on the Prophet and *
said: "O Muhammad, give me a eamelload ofwhat Alláh ~ has given
you, as indeed you do not give me of your own money, or your father' s
money." Upon this, he pulled the Prophet ~ by his clothes so hard that
it left a mark on the Prophet's neek. The Prophet ~ said:

- ~ 2.l::.. ~~~:;
.((&1;.'
/ /
,~~ Gi:; ',.&i j~ jWi))
"The wealth is Alláh's wealth, and 1 am His slave. However,
you will be eharged, o nomad!"
The man replied: "You will not do that." The Prophet ~ asked:
"Why?" He said: "Beeause you do not retum abad deed with another,
but you retum abad deed with a good one." Upon this, the Prophet ~
pardoned him and ordered him to be given what he wanted.
Merey 283

The Messenger of Alláh ~ also treated the youngsters and ehildren

with merey and kindness. He often played with them and put them near
to him. Imam Ahmad narrated on the authority ofYousefbin Abdullah
bin Sallam that he said:
"The Messenger of Alláh ~ named me Yousef, and seated me
on his lap, then wiped over my head ... "
With his opponents and enemies, the Prophet ~ was also patient. He
often tolerated their harm against him. He hoped and strove for their
guidanee and righteousness, while he was always able to invoke Alláh
~ against them, whieh wou Id resu lt in their ruin and destruetion. Yet,
when they beeame harsher and more hostile towards him, he would
only say:
. {{0>í:~.q
~
o >~~ o-;:..LP.I ~1I))
~~ ~jJ /
"O Alláh, guide my people, for they do not know."
Islam has ealled upon its followers to be endowed with this noble
virtue in order for people to be stable in their life, and for every
member of the soeiety t<? find his appropriate position in life and thus
his dignity. At-Tabarani narrated that the Prophet ~ said:
1(\ »
o/ /
o l'>~->01/ ))
l/o ~/
. ~f~~Y'

"Verily you wil1 not believe until you have merey among you."
They said: "O Messenger of Alláhl We all are mereiful." He replied:
o " .-' .-' ,,--; .-' ..­
. ((~WI ~ I-::'CY >.G-G '--"~I ~/ / 0\>"::1))
/ .J~.J'/ \/ / f:.v-::-' ~

"It is not your merey upon one of your friends, but it is the
merey upon the whole populaee."
Islam also stresses upon extending the eoneept of merey to inelude
animals. Animals should not be harrned, beaten, or left hungry or
thirsty. Abu Ddwud narrated on the authority of Abdur-Rahman bin
Abdullah <:.S- .11 ..? J, that he reported that his father said:
"We were travell ing with the Prophet ~, when he proeeeded
away for sorne private affair (to answer the eal1 of nature);
Merey 284

meanwhile we saw a Hummara (a bird) with two of her baby

birds, so we took them from her, upon whieh she started
flapping her wings. The Prophet ~ carne and said: "Who did this
with her baby bird? Give her baby baek to her." He then saw an
anthill, whieh we had burned down and asked: "Who burned
this?" We answered: "We did." Then he said: "No one shall
torture with tire exeept the Lord ofthe Fire (meaning Alláh)."
Al-Bukhári and Muslim reported on the authority of Ibn 'Urnar zss, that
the Messenger of Alláh ~ had said:
~:I \J8\ ~ ¿j;.Jj \ ~;. ¿i~ ~ ~ ~~ J; ~t:;1 ~j;))
'" jo j-~f""" '" __ '" o '"

~~ ~ J5L; ~:; ~ '1j 'Li/~;' ~ ~1 l¡.~',j ~i

o
(( 0
~Jl
0
\ 11
"A woman was tortured for a eat that she eonfined until it died
from hunger. She therefore entered Hellfire for what she did to
the cat. She did not feed it or let it drink, nor did she set the eat
free to eat the small animals (bugs, rodents, etc.,) ofthe earth."
O servants of Alláh! Alláh ~ says:
A~í
"l: _~~
~- ¿,
<:»: -:: J;í</;':~\:l>.
o_~~ ::>U~)'"'

"Surely, Alláhs Merey is (ever) near unto the good-doers."

(7:56)
As was also stated in an authentic Hadith:
o ((.&\Y~J ':I ;:,r8\ r:f-:I :;))
"May Alláh have no merey on him who has no merey on
people."
The cruelty ofthe heart and the coldness ofthe emotions are considered
sorne of the causes for the misery of this life and the Hereafter. As was
narrated by Abu Hurairah ~ that the Prophet ~ said:
o (( ~
~~
­ '.: '11~ L;.'J I¡ tr~:: '1))
y

"Merey is not taken away exeept frorn a wretehed persono"

Merey 285

We are thus obligated to take the example ofthe Messenger of Alláh ~

and hold onto the teaehings of our religion. Every Muslim must have
merey on himself by not exposing himself to the wrath of Alláh ~ or
involving himself in disobeying Him.
O brother in Islam! Would not you like it when Alláh greets you with
Salam (peaee) through His Messenger ~, the best man ever ereated
and treats you with His merey and favors in this life and the Hereafter?
Alláh t~ says:
~-:' ,1:: .t'~."" /,::y- .t':¡;: ~"".. i~~ ~~ -; ~ ¿ -: jí~{'- \Sl~ )..
~ cr: ¡--:'J ~ r::- ¡Jo'""..... s- wn.Y.. ~/ . 9 r
.b.
,;.~~ -'~t~:\-:i/ '''''r /1":'-;;' /// .1<".. ",. . /" ";,)~/i-::; '~(\
Ir.. . ,. . .,.,
.J~ ,<u\Í L-- IJ L~'¿"'¡ ~ y~"":' ~ ..-""" ~ ~ ¡)A ,A..:. ~J'

"When those who believe in Our Ayát (proofs, evidenees,

verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) come to you, say:
'Salámun 'Alaikum' (peaee be on you); your Lord has written
(preseribed) Merey for Himself, so that if any ofyou does evil in
ignorance, and thereafter repents and does righteous good deeds
(by obeying Alláh), then surely, He is Oft-Forgiving, Most
Mereiful." (6:54)
He ~ says, deseribing the believers who treat one another with merey
and kindness and whose hearts are filled with faith in Alláh ~ and His
Messenger ~:
~>ií .............., ......... ~;:if .....- >Alt ''''''':-t:l~ .. ~ ..... > .... v-Tí........ > :>Tí.. . )..

-F if'0*.-JY ~"-.:..-'.Jv~~ .. o~\~~";"''J¡)..hr'J r

lt >. lt ....
'í /.
..--1> » .........'" :í (t.t ·...í > r-:: > I!:.... -: ,~\í ~:."'''''::') ~lí
¿JI\~..fi.-." ~J\ J"4J-""".JJ A.ll -"';';~J .y'y "';"";">Y~.J·
/ .J.
'-.:.,.)~.J
....... o".. .

Á» t"'/ ~ ./ J~ ~ \
"'C~ J"'::'i? w!>
"The believers, men and women, are Auliyá' (helpers,
supporters, friends, protectors) of one another; they enjoin (on
the people) Al-Ma 'rúf (i.e., Islámic Monotheism and all that
Islám orders one to do), and forbid (people) from Al-Munkar
(Le. polytheism and disbelief of all kinds, and all that Islám has
forbidden); they perform As-Salát (Iqámat-as-Saláú, and give
the Zakát. and obey Alláh and His Messenger. Alláh will have
Merey 286

His Merey on them. Surely, Alláh is All-Mighty, All- Wise."

(9:71)
o AIHl.h! Help us repent and surrender to You! Answer our prayers! O
Alláhl Make us feel the eoolness ofYour pardon, and the sweetness of
Your forgiveness! Save our hearts from being attaehed to other than
Youl Join us to those whom You love and who love You! Proteet us in
this life and the Hereafter from all tribulations and temptations! Make
us pious inwardly and outwardly and make us amongst the righteous
ones! O Alláh! Have merey on all Muslims! O Alláhl Answer our
prayer!
With this 1 eonelude my speeeh and ask Alláh ~ to forgive all of our
sins and wrongdoings. So seek His forgiveness; verily He is Oft­
Forgiving All-Mereiful.
Honoring the ties 01Kinship 287

Honoring tite ties of Kinship

AH praise is for Alláh who created man frorn water (meaning the
sperm mixed in semen), and fram man emerged the blood and
marriage relationships. Alláh ~, thus, made honoring the ties of
kinship obligatory and prescribed a great reward for those who fulfill
this obligation.
I bear witness that there is no god worthy of worship except Alláh ~
Alone having no partners. This is a testimony that I save for Judgement
Day. I also bear witness that Muhammad ~ is Alláh's Messenger and
slave, who of all people attained the greatest reverence and the most
superb reputation. May the peace and of Alláh be upon him, his family,
his Companions who undertook righteousness as their way of life and
those who follow on their footsteps.
O people, fear Alláh ~ and safeguard what He ordered you to
safeguard. Keep and safeguard His rights and the rights of His people
and creations. Keep and honor the ties of kinship (Arhaam). Sorne
people understand the meaning of Arhaam incorrectly. Arhaam are the
people related to you thraugh blood bond. They are also called Al­
Ansaab. So they are not the relatives ofthe husband or wife, as sorne
people understand mistakenly. The husband or wife's relatives are
called Al-Ashár, who are the people related to you by bond of
marriage.
Ar-Rahm (blood relatives) and Al-Ansaab are the parents, children and
every one related to the person thraugh them by blood bond (e.g. the
grandfather, the grandmother, the uncle, the aunt, and the
grandchildren).
A Muslim ought to keep contact with his Arhaam by visiting them,
offering them gifts and money if they need it, being compassionate
with them and showing them cheerfulness and the respect that they
deserve. In brief, a Muslim must offer them anything recognized as a
way of keeping ties with them. By doing so, a Muslim shall gain a
good reputation and achieve a great reward. It is his way to heaven and
Honoring the ties ofKinship 288

to qualify for Alláh's attention in this life and the Hereafter. Alláh ~
said:

t' 5k~JIJo~í 0-> :~:'~1~;J ,'¡~0;;ú.Jí o~)ií ~j:>~ al ~

./ -/ ",4~"'",/ ,/ ~,¿I"", / .. ; ~> /> //"" ..,.-:"" ~/.,.// ""./.J t . . :::; //
~-> ~~\ ~ l.t~L, o,,:;:,L.:::.,f\ ~-""" ¡J""~.Jrt'--'
-ó?"J J-->: ¡JI z~ 4.ll\ f\
á:D)
~
i~:~-:: lí";C:Ü
"''>-
-::::::;J;~~~ L~~ (:. \~;j; ~. . . i:..r-
............1...-
~iJ -;~...J
,í --:Jí ¡~~~ 1;...;~
;.""
.J

~ \~í
..] ",:;,-4
~r

"But it is only the men of understanding that pay heed. Those

who fulfil the Covenant of Alláh and break not the Mitháq
(bond, treaty, covenant). And those who join that which Alláh
has commanded to be joined (i.e., they are good to their relatives
and do not sever the bond of kinship), and fear their Lord, and
dread the terrible reckoning (Le. abstain from all kinds of sins
and evil deeds which Alláh has forbidden and perform all kinds
of good deeds which Alláh has ordained). And those who
remain patient, seeking their Lord's Countenance, perform
As-Salát iIqdmat-as-Saldn, and spend out of that which We
have bestowed upon them, secretly and openly, and defend evil
with good, for such there is a good end." (13:19-22)
Al-Bukhári and Muslim narrated on the authority of Abu Ayub AI­
Ansari ~ that he reported that aman had asked the Messenger ~
saying: "O Messenger of Alláh ~! Tell me about what (qualifies me
to) enter Paradise and draws me away from Hellfire." The Prophet ~
replied:
: ~ ~\ JW J;-]\ ;~tj ((e:.] ,'á~5 C?~ Jij)) : J~ )1 <~~ Jij))
((~' \~ '1 ,,~' ~L5~1¡
"J u-::-J J
-.~, ~~\' -~' ~
,-?,YJ ~J -
.... ~ ..r''.~ '1'J '...tI
/~
~))
.

.... '~"h:..,~ ~~ ~~ ~\))

. u'1::'; ,~J"
. ((Q\ ~
~~ '-!:;'
:~ ~ :1\ J~ .J.
'~;hili
"He has been granted success", or he ~ said: "He has been
guided." Then he asked the man: "what did you say?" The man
then repeated his question. Thereupon the Prophet ~ answered:
"Y ou worship Alláh without taking partners with Him, establish
the prayer, pay your Zakát dues, and keep the ties of your
Honoring the líes 01Kinship 289

kinship." After that the man left. Then the Prophet ~ said: "If he
holds fast to what I commanded him, he will enter Paradise."
tAl-Bukhdris
Keeping ties with one's relatives is a cause for lengthening his lifetime
and increasing his provision. The Prophet js said:
» '1 ~/\: ¿\ .,ít,:, ~'-\/ .'. .'j 1n~~!¡',</ './»)
(( -.....:-)
>

,....
/
~
......
Q..r
.....,....
~ '\.H.~ ¡J
.......
.J :-'))
..... ,....
~
.
., '-' or" :.r
"He who desires to be granted more provision and that his
lifetime to be prolonged, should treat his kith and kin well."
(Agreed upon)
The Messenger of Alláh :i also said:
\~ :-::JW ~:.JI ~~ ¡..+:~ O I~l ~ J.1;J1 JJ;. j~/.J¡I 0l))
~~
¡JI -:
~..r
,...
~I
-;:.
.: /~
r-'" : JW/J''':;~
.....

.
,...
.J¡¡ J(j
jo..... .....
. /~I
-/
.....0

-: & liGJI'~
~ ;'/ i
..... " .....

.({~~\jj :J~,~ :.::J~ .~~~¿;h~j~~t

"Al1áh, the Most High, created the creation. After He finished
that, Ar-Rahm (the ties of kinship) rose up and said: 'At this
place 1 seek refuge with You from al1 those who sever me.'
Alláh said: 'Yeso Are you not satisfied that I keep the ties with
him who keeps you and sever the ties with him who severs you.'
Ar-Rahm then said: '1 am satisfied.' Alláh said: 'You are to be
given what you asked foro '"
The Messenger of Alláh :i also said:
jo..... ,..." ~ ..... :1t / /

'~ ~ ~j.&\ '.u.::,j?j ~ :J~ ~/JL;. ~ ~:.JI))

'" .... ... ... ,,;' ..... j.

J4\
"Ar-Rahm (the ties of kinship) is holding onto the Throne and
saying: He who keeps me, may Alláh tm keep ties with him, yet
whosoever severs me, may Alláh sever the ties with him."
(Agreed upon)
The Messenger of Alláh :i had showed that taking care of Ar-Rahm
and keeping ties with them is to be more rewarded than the freeing of
Honoring the ties 01Kinship 290

slaves. Al-Bukhári and Muslim narrated on the authority of

Maymounah ly 1\ ~), the Mother of the believers that she said:
::J\J «~ c;.. ¡~)II : J\J . -iJ.¿j /- ;.~r -AL:.J~r /.J¡\ J;.;)~
.((~;-~~ ~r 0lS ~\J;-h~::b~ :,J 41 d)) :J\J . ~
"O Messenger of Alláh ~! Have you noticed that I freed my
slave-girl?" He j\ said: "Yo u did?" she said: "Yes" He said: "If
you had given her to your maternal uncles, it would have been
of a greater reward for you."
O people, sorne people do not visit their relatives or keep contact with
them except when the relatives visit first. This is not how a Muslim
should keep the ties of kinship. This is rather called; returning a visit;
since it is normal for an intact human nature to give rewards for good
behavior and benevolence whether they were done by a relative or
otherwise. The Prophet j\ said:
((~J J~) ,', ~; \~l J.:.1)i ~j '~J~~ / /
J.:.\)i ~))
"He who rewards for a good deed being done to him by a relative
(mainly by returning a visit), is not the one who upholds the ties
of relationships. It is he who keeps the ties with those relatives
even when they sever the ties ofkinship with him." (Al-Bukhári)
I exhort you to keep this tie with your relatives uncut, even ifthey boycott
and abandon you. The great reward will certainly be yours, not theirs.
'.~L.,r ¡,X~
¡r--;- . .r
J«-: ~\.J¡\
,,/
J.r-:)
J/ t. :J~.j~ ~;I\
~ '-:f::'
'\~.:)
J/\"u; :G.­.
'" /J
'~\;:-0 1/'// '~/
cs"" ~ J .
-"
(.b-'¡/J
J/
,'11
J
~. J/~' I ~
LS'..r::-:.J
'"
'¡/, <J~-:1_~-:/
, • ~ J .r--""-J
J ....

.. '" _/ '" '" /' '" ­

J/'O ....- -;. '" o " J ; : ... ... oJ '" J o //

::...;.s 0~1I : Jw
JI). ,)fj _ ~);Ji .'l~:,.JIl:?\ _ ~I ~ ~ ~ / ; ~K; .::.J.; ~

. ((~~ ~ ~~ ~ _¡.fí~ ~ ~r -¡.fí~ ~ /.J¡\ ~ 2.1::

Aman called on the Prophet j\ and said: "O Messenger of
Alláh, I have relatives with whom I keep ties with, but they
sever relations with me. I treat them kindly, yet they are bad
towards me, and I am patient with them, whereas they treat me
badly and roughly." Upon hearing that the Prophet j\ said: "If
Honoring the ties 01Kinship 291

you are as you say, it is as ifyou are applying hot ashes to them
and you will always have a supporter frorn Alláh against them
so long as you keep doing what you are doing."
O believers, beware of abandoning your relatives (especially your
female relatives), as it is a reason for Alláh's curse and punishment.
Alláh ~ says:
&Jí ~j o~0 \;b~t ~;~í ~ L,'~ /:1. J (0J ~;;!~/~ ~ ~
~~~<;~~1J~t; ~ ~;j
"Would you then, ifyou were given the authority, do mischief in
the land, and sever your ties of kinship? Such are they whom
Alláh has cursed, so that He has made them deaf and blinded
their sight." (47:22,23)
Alláh ~ also says:
--: -" ':'..Jo ..... / / . J . i Y-;J\ /':ií//~1a;"'" ....... •;,r -:J,"'''// . . . ~ ... / "f,.. . ~
uJ~Jj..;.:.-y'wl:;:~4ll J' -...-.:.,¡ .CJ~~~.~¿"'¡~jll ~':>~_<J..~G l'

{)\~í:--~·..~tLjí>!¡áiJi:;"S~í
..... J r ~ ,.,. j ,.,.
"And those ' who break the Covenant of Alláh, after its
ratification, and sever that which Alláh has commanded to be
joined, and work mischief in the land, on them is the curse, and
for them is the unhappy (evil) home (Le., Hell)." (13:25)
Alláh ~ has insured Ar-Rahm (the ties of kinship) to sever and
abandon everyone that severs and abandons them. Alláh ~ has insured
Ar-Rahm to withhold his favors from him who severs their ties, Ar­
Rahm becomes contented announcing while holding onto the Throne:
"He who severs my ties shall be severed."
Jubayer bin Mutim ~ narrated that The Praphet ~ had said:
. ((~t,; i-WI ~~ '1))
"He who severs the tie of kinship, shall not enter Paradise."
(Agreed upon)
The worst severance of ties is when one severs the ties with one's
Honoring the ties o/Kinship 292

parents. Then comes the severance of ties with the closest relatives.
For this, the Prophet ~ said:
~ /\:; í~: lill
J.J-"J.¡J'-'; . .::...I
V
.. .r"
¿.o)IJ (( ~. /<L' é',,1 'ÍI» :~~
.t:Sj\ -r~~ ~'~ ~ :1\ J¡;
..... G j.;';' , ;. o ........,

. u0ill)\ jp':; /.w~ !.\\:;';~I» : Jl9 ,/.wl

"Should 1 not tell you the greatest of the major sins?" repeating
three times; the Companions said: "Yes, indeed O Messenger of
Alláh." He said: "Taking partners with Alláh ~ and being
defiant and ungrateful towards your parents."
It is such a great sin that it is ranked next to Shirk (taking partners with
Alláh in worship). You are ungrateful to your parents when you cease
to treat them kindly or honor them. Worse than that is when you do not
only stop being kind and benevolent with them, but also become
rebellious towards them. You moreover, become aggressive and
oppressive with them whether directly or indirectly. Both Al-Bukhári
and Muslim narrated on the authority of Abdullah bin amar ~ that the
Prophet ~ said:
\~-~ I¡ ~ _:/ '1;'/ 4\ J ~ / G' : \í¡; . ((~::UI/ I~~ 1\ ~ :/. .t:Sj\ ~ )
c..r:.r ~u.J/ .J-"J_ y /- /.J~.r r----'~. ~
;. ....;. -; , j. ...., j:. ........ "" "" .....

.I(~L~ ~~.~~L~:..Ú'~~\~~\\~ '~'~~\~I\~:~,¡....u»:Jl9~ ~:.u\}

"It is from the major sins when one curses his parents." The
Companions said: "Is it possible that a man curses his parents?"
He ~ answered, "Yes, it is. A man curses another man's father,
so the latter curses the first man's father and mother."
The Companions could not fathom the possibility of someone cursing
his parents directly. It is indeed unfathomable because it goes against
all the norms of decency. Therefore, the Prophet ~ explained that this
might occur directly or indirectly when someone causes another to
curse his parents, simply by cursing their parents. 'Ali ~ narrated that
the Prophet ~ had taught him four words (statements):
íS.:;í ¿; ~4\ ¿,j '~::U\J
/
¿,j ¿; ~4\ ¿,j ,/4\ ~
/
~~ ¿; ~4\ ¿,j))
L'
t: .... G .... "*
(("!"'~ ')1\ ~8 ~ ¿;/4\:;J d~~

"Alláh curses him who slaughters (cattle, sheep, livestock) in the

Honoring the fíes 01Kinship 293

name of something other than Alláh, Alláh curses him who curses
his parents. Alláh curses him who gives sanctuary and shelter for
an innovator in Islam (the one who starts a Bid'ahy. Alláh curses
him who changes the ownership ofland (tyrannically)."
O servants of Alláh! You, who believe in Alláh ~ and His Messenger
:i, examine your situation! Have you done what is required of you
regarding your relatives? Are you honoring the ties of kinship? Are
you kind to them? Do you smile at them? Do you show them the best
ofyou when you meet them? Do you pay them what they deserve from
you in love, reverence and honor? Do you visit them when they are
healthy or ill to show them that you care? Do you help them financially
when they are in need?
Sorne people do not perceive their parents who reared them and too k
care ofthem except disrespectfully. Sorne would honor their wives and
dishonor their mothers, be cIose to their friends and far from their
fathers. When they have to visit their parents, they feel like they are
sitting on live coals. They will feel so uncomfortable and their stay
there will seem to last forever. The moment will be like a whole hour
or even longer. lf he has to talk to them, he will do so but forcibly. He
would never confide to them any secret or even speak to them about
any important matter. By doing so, those people deprive themselves of
the pleasure and reward they could have attained had they been
benevolent and righteous children for their parents.
Furthermore, sorne people do not see their relatives as relatives and do
not treat them the way they deserve to be treated. They would start a
fight with them over any little thing and fall out with them over trivial
matters. As for fulfilling their commitments towards their relatives,
this may never happen which means they would never keep the ties of
kinship with them, never speak to them, and definitely never help them
financially when they need it. Even if these people were wealthy and
their relatives were poor and unable to help themselves. The scholars
say that if a person can inherit from a relative of his, then he is
obligated to help his relative ifhe is in need. Conceming this, Alláh ~
says:
Honoring the ties ofKinship 294

f~IJ:S~';'-;19í~ ,
"And on the (father's) heir is incumbent the like of that (which
was incumbent on the father)." (2:233)
This means a share similar to the father's obligation regarding spending
on the needy dependant. If, after that the person becomes stingy and
does not fulfill his obligation, he will regret it on the Day of Judgement
whether the dependant asks for his right or feels shy to do so.
O servants of Alláhl Fear Alláh and preserve your ties with your
relatives! Do not terminate your relationships with them and always
remember what Alláh ~ has prepared for those who strive to keep the
ties of kinship! Likewise, remember what Alláh ~ has also prepared
for those who sever these tieso
With this, I conclude my speech and ask Alláh ~ to forgive all of our
sins. Seek His forgiveness for He is the All-Forgiving, the Most
Merciful.
The Neighbor S Rights 295

The Neighbor's Rights

All praise is for Alláh ~ Who ordered us to keep the ties of kinship
intact and forbade us from being ungrateful. He further confinned the
right of a Muslim over another Muslim. The neighbor has a right over
his neighbor even if he is not a Muslim or is a sinner.
We praise Alláh ~ and put our trust in Him. 1 bear witness that there is
no god worthy of worship except Alláh ~ Alone having no partners
with Him. He is the Creator who created everything other than Himself.
May peace and prayers be upon our Master Muhammad ~ who spoke
the best of speech. May peace and blessings be upon him, his family,
his Companions who fulfilled all of the people's rights required from
them and upon every one that follows their guidance.
o servants of Alláh, the neighbor's right is proven in many Verses of
the Qur'án and Ahadith. It was even said that the angel Jibreel kept
emphasizing upon Muhammad :!JI5 the importance of the neighbor's
rights until the Prophet ~ developed an impression that Jibreel was
going to prescribe a share in the inheritance for the neighbor. No one
harms his neighbor except an ill-rnannered person who is wicked and
evil. The Prophet ~ said:
llí /4\ J';:j~ : ~ ( •0-:y. '1 /41) '0-:y. '1 /41) '0-:y. '1 /41))
nJ~ »:
1 ".Áj\/ / \;./ : \
» »
\L; (l".Ájr / ~~ l>-/• eY'.
"".
~ /~
/
~ ~ /)) : J~ ~~ ¿; .y..;.) w~
/y. ) Y /y. j o" / .
«~ t -:)1 • J/I ~
. °r . '"
"By Alláh, he does not believe. By Alláh, he does not believe. By
Alláh, he does not believe." It was said: "O Messenger of Alláh!
Verily, he lost and failed. Who is he?" He said: "It is he whose
neighbor does not feel safe from his Bawaaiq" They asked:
"What is his Bawaaiq?" He said: "His evil." (Agreed upon)
The Arabs before and after Islam were proud of being kind to their
neighbors. They even priced their houses according to how valuable
their neighbor was. Furthermore, Islam has made it incumbent upon
The Neighbor S Rights 296

Muslims to be kind and benevolent to their neighbors regardless of

their neighbors' religion. It was even ruled that the wicked person is he
whom people avoid for his ill-manners, terrible behavior and his
harrnful actions. The most disgusting and revolting neighbors are those
who search for people's (and also their neighbor's) faults and
deficiencies. They would not mind looking into people's privacy. Thus
they cannot be entrusted with people's lives, religion, money, or
property. The Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
(,;JI) ~~ ~y. ~l5 ¿;J ,~')~ r# ?'11 rJ;Jl) ~~ ~y. ~l5 ¿;»
'11"-: JHj ''11 0"11/ "L, ~ ,,~ :l5 :..ro
'/ J ~-:, /. ,¿.~;~ .,'
J y:?- • ? r.J::" J /4.U ~ ~y. u '~ i~ ? l \

. (( 1'· ~ ~a:í
"He who believes in Alláh and the Last Day should show
hospitality to his neighbor; he who believes in Alláh and the
Last Day should show hospitality to his guest; and he who
believes in Alláh and the Last Day should speak good or remain
silent." (Agreed upon)
.,G/ 'U ~ :. ~ I ' ~ ti -:. \'. " ~. l'~ 11' ~ I h\ ~ //'¡ '/ ~ "~tl
' ~,.J:: ,,-~ u ~ r:-:..ro r;-- J 'V" w ..:.... o" j-~.r- ))

~'~ :I ¿; t;J\ ~~ :I ~~ ~ ,-:?~I) '~pl ~ ¿; ~L¡.jl)

.((~IY·~~~
"The believer is he who the people feel safe with. The Muslim is
he who the Muslims are protected from his tongue and hand.
The Emigrant is he who abandons evil. By Him in Whose Hand
is my soul, he will not enter Paradise whose neighbor is not
secure from his evil."
o Muslims, it is reaIly shameful to go to sleep with a fuIl stomach
while your neighbor is hungry. It is shameful to always wear new
clothes, yet be so stingy that you would not even give your neighbor
your used clothes to cover his nudity. It is shameful to enjoy aIl the
good things you have - food, clothes, perfume, and much more ­
while your neighbors long for bones and dry bread. Are you aware of
what the Prophet ~ said regarding giving things away to your
neighbors even if it were a little thing? He ~ said:
 - ­

The Neighbor S Rights 297

..... ,...-,.... -)1- "" .......... ~

. (eL; ~):,.J~ ~~ O'jL; 5~ 'j 'JI))

r:J'..... '" .....

"Certainly, a woman should not belittle what her neighbor gives

her, even if it is a sheep' s intestines."
He ~ addressed Abu Dhar o:.s- 1\ ¿,. J, saying:
. (¿X;I/ ~~~/ ~~~ ··;!Ú ;j./ ~ I~I~~ (¡ t))
~ .J j
.;::-' J" . t · •

"O Abu Dhar! When you cook, add more water (i.e., to make
enough soup) and take care of your neighbors (by sending them
sorne of it)."
O brothers in Islam, your neighbor has rights upon you, which you
must fulfill! These rights are easy to fulfill; I shall mention them as a
reminder. When you meet with him or run into him accidentally, you
should greet him by saying Saldm (Assalamo Alaikum). When he falls
sick, you should visit him. When he dies, you should attend his funeral
and look after his children after his death as if it were their father
looking after them. You must stand by him in happiness, grief,
hardship and ease. The Prophet ~ said:
.&1 ~ .JI/ - il
'" , '" ~
y. -: /
-r::>.J
,<\...;>\..:J :...~,Y' -:
<: '" "" 1- -r::>
J/ ~ '".&1 ~
'" -:
wt>....:"\tI Y' -:))
~
. ((./! W
.....

. / :...
J

,- ",Y'
J?•
.....
Jl.ü
""',/

"The best of companions with Alláh is the one who is good to

his companion, and the best of neighbors with Alláh is the one
who is good to his neighbor."
O Muslims! It is prohibited for you to peek into your neighbor's house,
especially while he is not paying attention. It is prohibited for you to
cheat him (by having relations) with his wife. You should know that
he, who looks into his neighbor's house without his permission, would
have his eyes filled from Hellfire. It is forbidden upon you to try to
listen to what your neighbor says in his house like spies do, which
would make him insecure with you being his neighbor and never trust
you with what he says or does.
If you are not able to be good and kind with your neighbor or
acknowledge his favor upon you, then do not harm him and keep your
The Neighbor S Rights 298

evil away from him. Let him relax in his home and visit him when he
invites you. When he consults you, advise him. Ifhe is oppressed, give
him your help, support and defense. Yet if he is the oppressor, help
him by stopping him from oppression. If he does well, hail and
compliment him and if he does wrong, pardon hirn. If he corrupts, do
not approve of his corruption and remember that on Judgement Day
many will be grabbing their neighbors, each one saying: "O Lord! This
is my neighbor who closed his door in my face and deprived me of his
good advice while witnessing my evil."
~í? ,~~j ~~ ~;5 ~ j:G i;~ 01 ';41 J~J~ : ~J J~
. . . 0;.,..../,....",,;/,.... /.......... //,.........."

~ ~.l:; ¡;')\.! 0p ;41 J~J~ : JL; ((/JI .j~)) : JL; ,L¡;I~ l:?:Y
,L;If.;:-l5~~"¡j
..
,....
.bj\'1 ~ ))\r~ ~:I :;;.: Ltu ,~~j ~~ ~
,.... ,....,.... ,....,.... ,....

((?;JI .j ~») : J~ o

"A man asked the Prophet ~ about a woman who made many
prayers and fasted mucho Yet she would hurt her neighbors, The
Prophet ~ answered: 'She is in the fire of Hell.' The man asked
again about another woman who only did her obligations in
terms of praying and fasting, yet she gave charity with big
pieces of Aqit (yogurt or cheese) and never harmed her
neighbors. The Prophet ~ said: 'She is in Paradise, '"
The Prophet ~ said:
'8L:aJ' ~L;i\j 'el)! p l j ,~L:aJ1 ~írJI : ~;~I ~ ~:)))
~;JI ~í:.Jlj ,~;.JI ~L;il : ~j~1 ~ ~)j ,~~I ~rJI)
o ((J~ ~¿'l\ p i ) ~;.JI ~rJI)
"Four are from happiness: a good wife, a spacious residence, a
good neighbor and a comfortable vehicle. And four are from
misery: abad neighbor, abad wife, abad vehicle, and a small
(stifling) residence.'
Alláh ~ likes the neighbor who is patient upon his neighbor's harms
until one day Alláh ~ will help him, either by moving him away from
that neighbor or by that neighbor's death. It is idiocy and stupidity for
The Neighbor S Rights 299
people to file complaints with the authorities against their neighbors
for the bickering and quarrels that occur among the women or children.
The Prophet ~ also forbade building walls or raising the houses so
high that such would cause harm for the neighbor and might block the
wind from reaching the neighbor's property or expose of the
neighbor's privacy. The Prophet ~ used to say:

~~t)\ J~ 0~ ,~~I :1; -i. ~.?J\ !~I ~ ~ ;;1 Jl t+U 1 »)

~ /

.((J'~

"O Alláh, 1 seek refuge with you from the bad neighbor in a
permanent residence, as the neighbor in the nomadic residence is
always moving (i.e., he does not stay in one place)."
The Prophet ~ said:
,U"'ÓI ~
..-
~ ¿D~.j¡\ rJ ~ :"':'JIJ
, /
'U"'Ó\
, /
~ ~ r)L;..j¡ JI»
, / ,/ --­

~ ¿I>;l 0 ~ U"'LJ¿ ~b ,~y ~ il)~ Jl ~J

/ /

. (¡/ bl\ U"/ ~\ ~/o.< 0Ú ~\ ..% '1/ ,~

. / .r!: ~.) /
"Beware of the prohibitions then you are the best of
worshippers. Be satisfied with which Alláh has given you, then
you are the richest of people. Be kind to your neighbor, then you
are a believer. Love for the people what you love for yourself,
then you are a Muslim. And do not laugh too much, for laughing
too much kills the heart."
Somepeople do not care about others if they themselves are
comfortable. They would not mind if all the people were annoyed by
them and angry with them. They would not mind even if their
reputation was hurt so long as they satisfy their lusts and joys. Their
lusts and desires are fulfilled and their needs are met, so it does not
matter if all these were satisfied at the expense of their honor, dignity,
or reputation. For that reason, these people are despised by others,
hated by their neighbors and have a disgusting reputation among their
peers. The Prophet ~ said:
. (((" :~ ~ ~Ú ~~ \;p
The Neighbor S Rights 300

"Ifyou feel no shame, then do whatever you wish."

He ~ also said:
J~ '.&1 ~bJ 'r-G1jj' ~ rJ ~ r-G~ ~ rJ '.&1 ~p
~
: ,: ,d .
:' '1\ ~ ll\ ~
0'" ~ r..T-
l.:~ '1' ,U '1 : -- U : 'tiiJl l.:~
J . ,- 0'"J. ,- 0'" - ~

'¿ij Q..G '.~ ik ,'¿j Jjj ~ III ~~

-:. L·..~ ~'::c; . . \.'.~ '1 ! ,'-;..Cc.¿,
. í,~~ . ~ J. u:.
. «(~I~~~~ ~.~ J;. ~~ '1J'¿~J
"Alláh has divided your manners among you as he has divided
your provisions. Verily Alláh gives (the pleasures of this) life to
whom He loves and whom He does not. Yet, He does not give
the faith except to whom He loves. He who is given the faith,
verily AI1<lh has loved him. By Him in Whose Hand is my soul,
a person does not become a Muslim until his heart and tongue
submit and surrender (to Alláh), and does not believe until his
neighbor is safe from his evil."
May Alláh make you and me among the best of his creatures, and may
He bless us all with the good favors and provisions that he bestows
upon uso May He protect you and me from harming the neighbor and
from ignoring his rights upon uso
Alláh ~ says:
~·T\"~·~i'\ . "(/:..l··-:t:'ít"\f ... .:" i:{/~...i"'~íi )0)0.'\" JÁt.:lo­
\ • J~J-"'"' ->:f;J' _Y-'~Y.J'. '~'Y? JJ.ul ~~~ v "
I _
~
··í~ ~t
q..J.:-
<-->-~í"
';.:- ~
~í dí" {'. ~íí ~ Llí" ."C",/"íf"
~;"..J. J ~J-"U ->~ ~ . .J ~ 'J

.i\"~ '-:-§~:'I-;"
"\~~
/' '" "'..:í ~'\~\~-:..:, ·r/'~\/'" I ....-:"\
u-=0'"<~ J4.\l 0~· " . ~\..AJ~
"Worship Alláh and join none with Him (in worship); and do
good to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, Al-Masákin (the poor), the
neighbor who is near of kin, the neighbor who is a stranger, the
companion by your side, the wayfarer (you meet), and those
(slaves) whom your right hands possess. Verily, Alláh does not
like such as are proud and boastful." (4:36)
The danger offalse Testimony 301

The danger of false Testimony

AlI praise is for Alláh, the Omnipotent Who is well acquainted with
everything; nothing shall be hidden or concealed from Him. He even
knows what one might think to himself, what may be whispered within
his soul, what he conceals and what he utters.
1 praise Alláh. He commanded us to keep our tongues away from
giving false testimony or speaking vulgarities. 1 ask Him to guide us to
always speak the truth in ease and difficulty. 1 bear witness that there is
no god worthy of worship except Alláh Alone, having no partners. I
also bear witness that Muhammad ~ is His slave and Messenger, who
gave the truthful ones the great tiding of the Gardens that under which
rivers flow and warned the liars of a gloomy destructive destination­
the Fire. May peace, and blessings of Alláh be upon Him, his family,
and Companions who were truthful in speech and action and in staying
away from deviation and going astray.
O Muslims, fear Alláh ~ and listen carefully to His Words, with
hearts that are open to receive the truth and righteousness and hence
follow them. Alláh ~ says:
ú.Jj:íí .J1
,,- ,,'Y
rt "
~~ :fí;:'- -t- .;t (ln{ Dt
~ Y.J"" ~" " .... ~~ IYJ-' """"
-;' ilí (~lL
-: ;-;-: i~ -(- i ~"\: ~" .$ ~
'1': _ v 7

Á~ _ j1~~( .-:' ·t\~ ·1 :-'c/. \ 4:- ":t.¡í"~

~--r;. '"' ~.J _" ~u!> lJ':::';/
"O you who believe! Stand out firrnly for justice, as witnesses to
Alláh, even though it be against yourselves, or your parents, or
your kin, be he rich or poor, Alláh is a Better Protector to both
(than you)." (4:135)
O servants of Alláh, Alláh ~ commands you to adhere to Al-Qist
(justice) and that your testimony should be in favor of the truth and
justice whether for a person or against him. Your testimony should be
offered for the sake of Alláh ~ who wants you to testify according to
the truth without altering or tampering with it. May Alláh ~ have
merey on you. In your testimony as well as in your sayings, seek the
The danger oJJalse Testimony 302

truth-the pure truth. If you do so, you cement the foundation of

security. Do not make yourselves vulnerable to emotions; do not make
your testimony be affected by your awe towards your family relations.
Do not be biased towards a rich person for his wealth or a needy one
because you sympathize with him. You must know that Alláh is more
entitled in looking after His servants than you are. Oon't you ever
think that a truthful testimony leads to mischief. No, it is always a
blessing even though it may appear otherwise.
O servants of Alláh, a truthful testimony in not offered except by those
who are highly honored, endowed with dignity and faithfulness that
makes them refrain frorn testifying for the purpose of gaining an
interest in this Dunya (life or vanities of this world) which will
eventually vanish. Those are the honored ones who look forward to
Paradise, to the sealed nectar whose seal is musk. For this, may Alláh
~ have merey on you, you must endure any difficulty you may
encounter when offering your testimony regardless of what difficulty it
may be, such as when you have to wait in the court room or when you
make someone angry with you. You must also know that failing to
offer this testimony when you can offer it truthfully is a great sin
(which Alláh ~ described as a sin ofthe heart). Alláh says:

"And conceal not the evidence, for he who hides it, surely, his
heart is sinful." (2:283)
O servants of Alláh ~! The heart is the source of piety or corruption.
Thus if the heart is sinful, what is left of man to be righteous? So do
not conceal the testimony because concealing the testimony and th_e
evidence it entails will bring about evil to all mankind, whom you are
obligated to bring goodness for and protect frorn evil.
O servants of Alláh! If ceasing to offer the truthful testimony is
deemed harmful for the humanity and destructive to its balance, there
is something that may be considered even more harmful and
destructive. Do you know what that is? It is a terrible crime and a great
catastrophe! It is the false testimony, which is almost tantamount to
The Neighbor S Rights 303

Shirk (taking partners with Alláh ~). It is the false testimony that is a
threat to our wealth, security and well-being. It indeed destroys homes,
kills dear and innocent ones and violates obvious rights. Once it
spreads within a nation, it spreads chaos and causes people's whims to
control their lives. This and many other dangers are the outcome ofthe
false testimony. The Messenger of Alláh ~ has wamed us of it when
he said:
0~1)i 0~} ,4~ il\;~\ ~ ¿t;5:Ji ; \ ~i 'Í\)) : ~ ~I J~
..--; j.;' / ..--; /"-;' /',... -"

'ji ))jJI o.)~) 'j\1I : JIj ~ , \-:-~ ~ ~ t ft¡ 0lS' .(( ';fl¡ y;,
, \ ~ , -~ ~ ) ~ c..r-)
~. s ;.
. (()).J.II J.."i)
"Shall 1 not tell of the most major sins? Taking partners with
Alláh, being rebellious towards your parents, and murder." The
narrator ofthe Hadith said: 'The Prophet ~ was reclining, but he
sat up and said: "Indeed, the false testimony, verily the false
testimony." The narrator proceeded saying the Prophet ~ kept
repeating the last statement until they (i.e., the Companions)
wished he would stop."

So 1 wam you O Muslims! 1 wam you against the giving of false

testimony! It is an insult for the Muslim judges because it deceives
them and keeps them away from finding the truth. It is also a leading
astray for the one who is favored in this testimony because it will help
him pursue sinning and aggression. It is an oppression against the one
who is a victim ofthis testimony, because he has lost his right by being
cheated by the one who falsely testified against him when he was
bad Iy in need of his support.
We admonish the witnesses who testify falsely to fear Alláh ~ and to
repent for their wrong doings and tum to Alláh ~ for forgiveness.
They should realize that they would be brought to stand befare Alláh
~, the Most Just. Alláh will even return the right of the victimized
sheep from the aggressor one. They should repent to Alláh ~ before
they are dragged into Hellfire along with the other criminals. 1 swear
by Alláh that if they had known what Alláh had prepared for them in
the Hellfire of torture and disgrace, they would have wished that their
The Neighbor S Rights 304

tongues had been cut out before they ever spoke a word of their false
testimony. So fear AlHih~' O Muslims!

~1~ ~5!?sÍ fl) ~~~t~ÍJ ?í~~~ L~ dí;;J ~.Jir 1J ,

"And follow not (O man, i.e., say not, or do not, or witness not)
that of which you have no knowledge. Verily, the hearing, and
the sight, and the heart of each of those ones will be questioned
(by AlHih)." (17:36)
May Alláh ~ benefit all of us with the guidance of His Book. With
this 1 conclude my speech and ask Alláh ~ to forgive all of our sins.
Seek His forgiveness, for verily, He is the All-Forgiving and the All­
Merciful.
Bribery 305

Bribery
All praise is for Alláh. We praise Him, seek His aid and forgiveness.
We further repent to Him and seek refuge with Him from the evil of
ourselves and from our wrongdoings. Whomever Alláh guides none
can lead astray, and whoever Alláh misguides none can guide him. 1
bear witness that there is no god worthy of worship except Alláh
Alone, having no partner with him. 1 also bear witness that Muhammad
~ is His slave and Messenger. May the blessing and peace of Alláh be
upon him, his family, his Companions and any one that foJlows in their
footsteps until Judgement Day.
O people, fear Alláh and fulfill what he entrusted you with in aJl
matters. Carry out these trusts with apure intention and sincerity for
Alláh ~, submitting to Him and foJlowing His Commandments, and
intending to remit yourselves from responsibility and correct your
society. AIW.h ~ says:
~);,.L~ ~;¡; K:.:.í 1;;'¿~ J;')t ~í ¡;;¿ ..q ¡}.;I: &»í ~~"
1./ ~·t J / '0 !(~:í:i/ ~L1/""ií/-::/1'\-)o/"/
J
,,(JJ ,-:'\ d/ ! /
"\~J':"I :r'~ dJl -.:;i.J ~ r-'~J 'J r---""yo W O ~ I.J
"O you who believe! Betray not Alláh and His Messenger, nor
betray knowingly your Amánát (things entrusted to you, and aJl
the duties which Alláh has ordained for you). And know that
your possessions and your children are but a trial and that surely,
with AIHih is a mighty reward." (8:27,28)
O you who believe! The trust you are entrusted with is not an easy
matter. It is the religion, the responsibility of safeguarding it, the
methodology and the way. It is a heavy burden and a great
responsibility. It was offered to the heavens, the earth and the
mountains, yet, despite their high strength and durability, they declined
to bear it and were afraid of its consequences. lnstead you, man, have
bore it for the reasoning and understanding that Alláh ~ has created in
you, and the knowledge, revelation and guidance He has made
available to you. With the reasoning and understanding you may
Bribery 306

recognize things and with the revelation and knowledge you may be
guided and shown the right way. For this you were qualified to endure
and fulfill the responsibilities of this trust. Therefore you must attend
to the responsibilities of the 'trust' you bore completely and perfectly,
so as to please your Lord and achieve the piety of your society.
However, if you fail to keep it, the whole society shall suffer a great
destruction in its body and disintegration in its tieso
O Muslims! In order to protect and safeguard this trust, Alláh ~ has
prohibited every cause leading to its ruin or even its partial loss. He
therefore, prohibited the practice of bribery, which is to give money to
someone or forgive him from his dues for the purpose of
accomplishing an unlawful gain. Alláh ~ says:
: -C¡/
~ .'../
~b~ ..pW,í
~
JI" t-: .I)~~
"-t't
J.b4t t::~ ~í:'1 i~t:.·yJ ,
~ ~ •. ;. r-:: r Y
"'~';j';, ..-..~~
"'{u
'q~ .. ·--¡t ~~
ÓíY"
~:.Y'

"And eat up not one another's property unjustly (in any illegal
way, e.g. stealing, robbing, deceiving), nor give bribery to the
rulers (judges before presenting your cases) that you may
knowingly eat up a part of the property of others sinfully."
(2:188)
Condemning the Jews, Alláh ~ says:
"'~5~,Lt_,~ ~
"'{ • / ~ s-Ó>
-,,-;"/)..
/......:...'~l'

"(They like to) listen to falsehood, to devour anything

forbidden." (5:42)
Bribery is a form of Suhut (possessing something by a forbidden way)
as was explained by Ibn Masud ~ and others. Ibn Umar I..+Y j¡\ c?)
narrated that the Messenger of Alláh ~ had cursed the briber and the
one bribed. In different wording the Hadith says that the Messenger of
Alláh ~ said:

. (~~IJ ~I:.J\ fi .-1\

~))
"The curse of Alláh shall be upon briber and the bribed.'

Bribery 307

This Hadith could be a statement by the Prophet ~ (as stated directly

in this translation) or an invocation against them to be expelled from
the merey of Alláh ~ as Satan was cursed, hence expelled from the
merey of Alláh ~. (To convey this meaning, the translation may be
changed into: "May Alláh curse the briber and the bribed.")
O Muslims! The curse of Alláh and His Messenger is only deserved
for doing a great evil and a detestable matter. Certainly bribery is one
of the most corrupting practices on earth, for it is a form of changing
Alláhs verdict, neglecting people 's rights, establishing fraud and
ruining what is right. Bribery is a great cause of corruption in the
society and a betrayal of the 'trust'. By practicing bribery, the briber
wrongs himself, for he spends his money to gain an illegal
achievement. On the other hand, the bribed wrongs himself by yielding
to injustice and oppression against the commandments of Alláh ~.
Both of them usurp other peoples rights and take the possession of
prohibited property. This shall not benefit them; it shall rather harm
them and thus ruin their wealth or the blessing therein.
Judges and rulers can be the target of bribery, when they tend to favor
the briber in their judgement and decisions against the truth. They do
so at the expense of other people 's rights, for the sake of benefiting
themselves through bribes. The executive officials may also be targets
for bribery, when they neglect carrying out orders, or even worse than
that, when they deliberately ceas e to execute verdicts, especially a
court verdict against a criminal, al! because of being bribed.
In ernployrnent, bribery has an impact in hiring someone at the
expense of another who may be more entitled. For being bribed, the
one in charge may pass the answers of the test, by which the employer
decides who is to be hired, to the person who is only favored by
bribery. A Hadith states something to that effect as the Messenger of
Alláh ~ said:
~ 4 \ /., r/} ~ ~ú, . r_¡:~ ~ ~ /1: :;:'..\ . /»
/ ~) .Y' o" r-t-:J
<Ó» • / _

, / ¡¿ " / ~ .) U-- e¡o

. ((02~\J}.J.?))'4\ 0~
"He who gives authority to aman from amongst a group, while
Bribery 308

another from the same group is more pleasing to Alláh, has

indeed betrayed Alláh, Bis Messenger and the believers."
(Narrated by Al Hakim with a sound chain ofnarrators)
Bribery can also be involved in implementing projects. In this regard, a
tender for a projeet is published, and one of the bidders may bribe the
ones in charge, so he takes the project, despite that other bidders may
be more honest and more proficient. Bribery can also be influential
during conducting criminal investigations, as the investigators can be
bribed to be lenient or even negligent in their investigations in favor of
the culprits.

*
The Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
J.} '" '" '" '"
fi ~~\ -:;))
"',p .......,. '" e

.IIJ# ¿m'" ~ ~í w ~~) ~L:.()} ~

/' ~ ,,­

"Whoever amongst you is appointed by us to a position of

authority for a certain salary, anything he takes beyond that shall
be deemed misappropriation." (Abu DdWUd)
Al-Ghalul (misappropriation, stealing through abuse of authority) is a
great sin. A man carne to the Prophet ~ to tell him that someone had
died a martyr, but the Prophet ~ said: "Nay! Be is being dragged into
the Fire for a garment he stole from the spoils of war."(Ahmed, with a
sound chain of narrators)
It is worth a moment of thinking to fathom how bribery can effect the
decisions of the people in charge of educating our children. With
bribery, a lazy student may be given or hinted the answers for the
final s, or be allowed to cheat during the exam, then pass and take the
place of another student who may be better and hardworking. This
occurs because the people in charge are vulnerable to the temptation of
the bribe.
O servants of Alláh! You now know the punishment ofthe briber and
the bribed in the Hereafter, which is to be ousted from the merey of
Alláh, the Merciful. You also leamed how corrupting bribery can be in
the society. Should not this be a deterrent to every God-fearing and
faithful believer who is also fearful of Alláhs punishment and caring
Bribery 309

about his religion and society, to not practice this evil? How could a
man with reason strive to destroy and ruin his society? O Muslims!
Actions can easily be taught and passed on frorn one group to another.
If bribery spreads in one area of this society, it will spread quickly to
all the other areas, and the one starting it will be the example for every
one untiJ the Day of Resurrection.
Fear Alláh, O servants of Alláh, and safeguard your religion and the
trust you are shouldering the responsibility thereof. Think for a
moment of which is better for you: to please Alláh by establishing His
justice and protecting yourselves from falling in the mud of your lusts,
or to be oppressors reclining to the deception of this earthly life and
subsequently being subjected to the wrath of Alláh,

,
~:J\
'
~16: ".1/ ~ ,.,t~, ~;-r
-> 1/" ¿¡'/i-t>/
r"" ~J
-t'~, '//!'é-;."'-::'Z'~
~\ r-"" ~ O ~~ )~ l,.l.}J4111 ~\ l,.:... .. ~~\ 'f:~
~~'\}o~~'J-/\/ /:¡~í>'L':k..
7
/",,,,,, /" / / / " ..~ ,/ ,.// -:; ;:. "'" ;:'." »> . / / "."" Jo"'" /". ~ '/~é",:.Jo,Jo
y~\Jt>J.¡L.~\ L:.,;;f' q O~b.)j\!...w ,ÁJy.JJ 4ú\ E"" 0"'J ~jl~
-1~ }o" ~ Yíc -:' ~ ~\ ~ ,/. :lVí/~/ e. :,:-:' :1/ \(L;' .~ /·;'t J t~W .'-;:lí/
~0 ,~~~ ~J"f":;~.') / . 0 ~ / .;. '.J~J '.J

// .Jo.:,,,pl -: ,
J.// ~ :.:.:r.. . /' _,,;:'T"""" ,/ />.\~/,/ />"" ;.:;,., yA
,/ .,.-"".Jo'"
~ 4ll yy"J sD;· \., ~r!J ':-'¡'~".-!J u:y.J\ o .;.U\

""t....-,:
"'t:
( ~ ~ }o~í -:' ~". \-:'~}oir -:' . ~'>ií
./:J ~jLP 4iJ 0:J y.:-"",.-'.') ~Y'"'

1 seek refuge with Alláh frorn Satan, the outcast.

"O you who believe! Keep your duty to Alláh and fear Him, and
speak (always) the truth. He will direct you to do righteous good
deeds and wilI forgive you your sins. And whosoever obeys
Alláh and His Messenger (~), he has indeed achieved a great
achievement (i.e., he will be saved from the Hell-fire and wilI be
admitted to Paradise). Truly, We did offer Al-Amánah (the trust
or moral responsibility or honesty and all the duties which Alláh
has ordained) to the heavens and the earth, and the mountains,
but they declined to bear it and were afraid of it (i.e. afraid of
Alláh's Torment). But man bore it. Verily, he was unjust (to
himself) and ignorant (of its results). So that Alláh will punish
the hypocrites, men and women, and the men and women who
Bribery 310

are Al-Mushrikún (polytheists, idolaters, pagans, disbelievers, in

the Oneness of Alláh, and His Messenger Muhammad ~). And
Alláh will pardon (accept the repentance of) the true believers of
the Islárnic Monotheism, men and women. And Alláh is Ever
Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful." (33:70-73)
O Alláh! Guide us and protect us from the causes of ignorance and
destruction! Save us from the defects of ourselves! Cause the last of
our deeds to be the best and most righteous! And forgive all ofus.
With this 1 conclude my speech and ask AIHih, the Almighty and the
Sublime, to forgive all of our sins. So seek his forgiveness. He is All
Forgiving Most Merciful.
The Detriments ofKhamr (Intoxicants) 311

The Detriments of Khamr (Intoxicants)

We praise Alláh that made permissible for his servants all the good and
pure things, and impermissible all impure and harmful things. 1 bear
witness that there is no god worthy of worship except Alláh Alone,
having no partner with Him. He has bestowed his great favors and
comprehensive bounties on His creatures. 1 bear witness that
Muhammad ~ is Alláhs slave and elected and noble Messenger. May
the peace and blessings of Alláh be upon him, his family, his
Companions and everyone following in their footsteps.
O people! Fear Alláh and take delight in the good and pure things that
Alláh has made permissible for you. Thank Him for this by fulfilling
His rights upon you. With gratitude these bounties and favors shall
continue and increase. Beware of what Alláh has prohibited you to eat
or drink, for if they were any good for you, He would not prohibit
them. He only prohibits what is harmful for you in your life and
religion to have merey on you, as He is the Generous One, the
Merciful and the Compas~ionate. For this Alláh ~ had prohibited all
the alcoholic and intoxicating beverages. This prohibition was relayed
to us through the Book (the Qurán}, the Messenger and the consensus
*'
of the Muslim Nation at large. The Messenger of Alláh called these
beverages the mother of all vices. He said:
. ((~r . J5 e~/ '-;?/

,... 'j,

/J>II
jo Jo /1:1

"1t is the key for all evi l."

Alliih ~ says:

~y'b:;:!í~~~~ "

"An abomination of Shaitdn's (Satan's) handiwork." (5:90)

Furthermore, many Ahadith have been narrated stating the prohibition

of a1J alcoholic drinks and warning of their dangers. These narrations
also threaten those who drink them. One of these Ahadith is what Anas
Ibn Malik I.....y 11 ~.J narrated saying:
The Detriments ofKhamr (Intoxicants) 312

~~:; ~)G:; ~~:; ~f:'~ :~? ~\

/' /' ...-"
~~~t41 Jr-J;;J
(¡,.J ~\:i :~J\/ 1":' / j/'~JI/ 4-0~~ /I<í/ I/.:>G'/ \":/;l:'/ ..::íl n,y..' /1\/
-' '"'6-' ..¿ / -' / ~ -' '+":. 0-' ~ -' / _; .r---'-'
o

"The Messenger of Alláh ~ had cursed ten people who have

contact with Khamr (Intoxicants). He cursed the one who
extracts it, the one for whom it is extracted, the one who drinks
it;the one who carries it, the one to whom it is served, the butler,
its seller, the one who benefits from its proceeds, its purchaser,
and the one for whom it is purchased."
AH these people are cursed by the Prophet ~, who also said:
jo o __ e..­
/ , .:- \\ 0/ ./ '}))
~

I":~/
.
((':
~y
.. y /
r -' ~y-J.../ 0::-':"
/ -:
~ . y-J..

"He who drinks alcohol is not a believer at the time of drinking

it."
It was also reported that the Messenger of Alláh ~ had said:
o ((J:; ~GS/41 ~::.,~
"...... .."'"
01~\ ~L)I
/' .....

"He who dies addicted to the intoxicants will meet Alláh (i.e. on
Judgement Day) as an idol worshipper."
He will also be forbidden from drinking the Khamr of the Hereafter as
reported in a Hadith:
_ } e J ..... .s oJl / 0 ' ­

":"::;'.IHt..;JJ\
'-'6"" r .-
.((%')\
/.T: <./-01":": 1": •.
~ í t' - <./-0/'.:-11"'::'"
~ 0.("" 0'"
.:/))

"He who drinks the intoxicants in this life will be deprived from
drinking the Khamr ofthe Hereafter."
The Alcoholic will not enter Paradise, as reported in another Hadith
saymg:
.(( '-: ~ LQ¡ YI~.:G"¡))
r~ o u-
"He who is addicted to the intoxicants shall not enter Paradise."
The Messenger of Alláh ~ also said:
u:-' u::
/1. ((JWI
/ o
01 ~
¡;:j,:
/ - / ~ ~
y~
/c' y'\¡ 0/ > : / I \~ .tI J..:.-;. ~I))
-/ - o y-J.. / / >

¿;:; ,fJJ\:; ~\ ¿lJ\ ~ ~J~ )1 /~l\ ~1 ~;)) :J~ ~ ~~I 4,

The Detriments 01Khamr (Intoxicants) 313
~ -va"" ",. o,}" ",
ú
. .¿­•
1) 1) ",

~
• (L:.o //0 \ 0')\..,o~.J l/~~'_ \ / o .; t¡
Y.~) u:-r~

"Alláh has vowed to make the drinker of intoxicants drink from

Tinat al Khabaal." It was asked: "what is Tinat al Khabaal?" He
~ said: "It is the sweat of the dwellers of the Fire or their puss
mixed with blood. He who drinks the intoxicants will have his
prayer rejected for forty days."
Khamr is a name for every thing that intoxicates and dulls or excites
the mind and faculties of man, regardless of its type or given name.
The scholars of Sharia, the physicians, the psychologists, and the
scientists attributed many disadvantages, harms and detriments to
drinking intoxicants. The first and most important one is that it averts
man from remembering AIJ¡lh ~ and performing his prayers. Being
addictive, it makes man c1ing to it and not do anything else except that.
Even when he is not drinking at that moment, yet his heart is attached
and occupied by its awe. The second harrnful matter attributed to
intoxicants is the harsh punishment and warning that Alláh ~ has
threatened the drinker with. Medically, a lot of harmful things could
happen to drinkers, such as stomach problems, fitness problems­
especially when they develop metabolic problems that are related to
the body's chemistry. That is why you see a lot ofthe drinkers with big
stomachs. Many drinkers get old early and sorne of them develop
cirrhosis and intestinal u!Cers. Moreover, sorne of them become sterile.
These are sorne of the physical harms that may occur to those who
indulge in intoxicants. As for the psychological adverse effects of
drinking, they can be summed up in the following: weakening of the
intellectual ability, depression and terrible thoughts, insanity, paranoia
and the desire for committing suicide. Drinkers do not behave
normally amongst each other. They often fight and sometimes become
dangerous psychopaths with the urge to hurt others regardless of their
situation, whether they are under the influence or sober. Many ofthem
fall into sinning easily, which means that drinking makes them lose
their morality and self-control. That is why many of them have fallen
into al! kinds of sinning such as: fornication, sodomy and other major
sins. Prophet ~ who called the intoxicants the mother of all sins, and
The Detriments of Khamr (Intoxicants) 314

"the key of all evil." Intoxicants hurt the drinker financial1y as wel1 as
because he spends every penny he earns on nurturing this detrimental
habit. Thus, when he runs out of money, he becomes willing to do
anything and sell any of his possessions, even his honor if he must, just
to quench his thirst for this poison. The modern non-Islamic countries
realized the dangers of the intoxicants and raged a war against them.
They have established many special agencies to enlighten their people
about the dangers of drinking and indulging in any intoxicating
materials and then impress upon them to quit and keep away from
these substances for the harmful moral, social and financial effects
they have. However, Islam has warned against these substances for a
long time. It even prescribed certain punishment in this life and the
Hereafter for indulging in them. AII Muslims are now aware of this
punishment as stated in a Hadith that the Prophet ~ had said:

;~ ~~ '~J~Ú ~ ~k(J '~J~Ú -s: ~k P'~J~Ú ~ I~p

.((~fi~ ~I~I
"If he gets drunk, lash him; if he gets drunk again, lash him; and
if he gets drunk (a third time), lash him. Then if he gets drunk a
fourth time, kill him."
When the intoxicants were first forbidden, the Messenger of Alláh ~
ordered all the containers and barreIs of wine to be broken and poured
on the streets of AI-Medina. 'Umar =-1\ ..?) also burned the house of a
man whose name was Ruwayshid (Iittle pious one), who used to sell
wine from his home. 'Urnar =- 11 ..?) called him and said to him: "You
are not Ruwayshid. Rather you are Fuwaysiq (Iittle criminal) Hashish
is one of the intoxicants. It is even worse in terms of adulterating the
intellect, and the morality of the abuser. He will display signs of
femininity and lack of jealousy. Thus aman, who is addicted to
hashish, loses his masculinity, jealousy and even his sexual prowess.
May Alláh save us all from perversion in our behavior and ethics, and
from the wickedness of our deeds and desires. May Alláh protect us
from the defects and diseases of our hearts. O Alláh! Guide us a\l to
repent and regret our sins, and to return to You!
The Detriments 01 Khamr (Intoxicants) 315
s » .... ·í'=" ¡JÍ,"'~( ".. ......." »> , . . 1.;,...- > 1 _.t,J...¡!.o" ". 7.. . r,l.......:;-- . . .-: ._} . . . . . . . .~ . . . .. . t...:' ~

'_~\Í ~.' _ • \ J...c-~~"!

~ r'-'b)\" y J'J~Ij~1 L.:.ll..,:...\.. .¿~\ lilJí. r
..-._~ u". _/'~.N"""~""'-b7.~ .J. '.J1'-;;(.J. .J.w"~\ /,j.J1.~1:í
&l"r\~;~\J.J'-l.Al\~cly.01·'_. \4.¡.. ' .. OcJ ~.- ¡:..­
e " ' . 1 0 ........ .. ...

iJ~:i:'"~ J~í ~1; j¡í ~i; O 0~ fi ~ i,i;Jí if~ ;tí A.;.¡4;

~~ígííQ;.~~d\;J~t~j.,~
"O you who believel Intoxicants (all kinds of alcoholic drinks),
and gambling, and Al-Ansáb, and Al-Azldm (arrows for seeking
luck or decision) are an abomination of Shaitán's (Satan's)
handiwork. So avoid (strictly all) that (abomination) in order
that you may be successful. Shaitán (Satan) wants only to excite
enmity and hatred between you with intoxicants (alcoholic
drinks) and gambling, and hinder you from the remembrance of
AJ1l1h and from As-Salát (the prayer). So, will you not then
abstain? And obey Alláh and the Messenger (Muhammad :!),
and beware (of even coming near to drinking or gambling or
Al-Ansdb, or Al-Azlám) and fear AIHih. Then if you turn away,
you should know that it is Our Messenger's duty to convey (the
Message) in the clearest way." (5:90-92)
May Alláh ~ bies s us all with His Book and benefit us with its Áyat
and wisdom. By this, 1conclude my speech and ask Alláh ~ to forgive
all our wrongdoings. So seek His forgiveness as He is the All
Forgiving Most Merciful.
The Punishmentfor Fornication and Sodomy 316

The Punishment for Fornication and Sodomy

AH praise is due to Alláh ~ for prescribing punishments for the
sinners and aggressors, so as to be a deterrent to other sinners and
aggressors. I testify that there is no god worthy of worship except
Alláh Alone, having no partner with Him. Verily, He is the King, and
the Absolute Truth. I also testify that Muhammad ~ is His slave and
Messcnger. Verily, he is the best of prophets and the leader of
reforrners. May the peace and blessings of Alláh be upon him, his
family, his Companions and every one that folJows in their footsteps
until the Day of Recompense.
O people! Fear Alláh, the Most High, and acknowledge Alláhs favor
upon you when He chose for you this great religion that combines
merey with wisdom. The merey is in rectifying people and the wisdom
is in following the straight path that leads to the solemn goal.
O people! It is human nature to have tendencies and inclinations that
differ from one person to another. Sorne would have inclination to
goodness and righteousness, and sorne to evil and falsehood. In this
regard.
AlJiih says:

"Certainly, your efforts and deeds are diverse (different in aims

and purposes)." (92:4)
In order to curb the wickedness of the soul, its perverted propensities,
and the evil actions that result therefrom, Alláh ~, the Judge, the
Merciful, the All-Acquainted and the Compassionate has prescribed
several punishments as penalties for committing certain crimes. These
penalties deter the aggressors, rectify the corrupted and straighten up
the crooked. They are also prescribed to make amends for the crimes
and the sins committed, as Alláh ~ does not gather two punishments
against a sinner. His punishment in this life will make amends for the
The Punishmentfor Fornication and Sodomy 317

sin he committed and thus not be punished in the Hereafter. For almost
every crime there is a penalty. A thief shall have his hand amputated,
because he mostly uses his hands to steal with. The highway robbers
shall be killed if a murder is involved in their operation. But if they
only steal, their hands and feet shall be amputated in a way that the
right hand and the left foot are cut. It is noteworthy to say that the
punishment is connected to the limbs that are mostly used in the crime.
In the case of the highway robbers, the feet and hands are the most
used in the crime so the punishment involves their amputation. The
penalty for slander and accusing someone in his honor is eighty lashes,
so that the accuser will be deterred and the honor of people will be
kept intact. The punishment for drinking wine (Khamr) that The
Messenger of Alláh ~ described as "the mother of all sins" and "the
key of all evil," shall be a great deterrent to the drinker that he wants to
drink it. The two gruesome crimes that are destructive to the morality,
hence to the society itself, are fornication and sodomy. Being very
revolting and ugly, Alláh ~ has prescribed great penalties for both.
The penalty for fornication is stoning to death if the perpetrator is
Muhsan. A Muhsan is aman or a woman who is married by a legal
marriage contract and has already had a sexual intercourse through that
marriage. After being stoned to death, the Muslim perpetrator is to be
given a complete Islamic burial. On the other hand, a non-muhsan
(who was not married at the time of the crime), should be lashed a
hundred lashes and expelled out ofthe country for a whole year.
The aboye mentioned penalty is for fornication that involves
penetration of the man's member into the woman's vagina. However,
there are other types of fornication or adultery that is sinfuI and
punishable in the Hereafter. Those types may also lead to the major
one. They are the adultery ofthe limbs, and organs. That was indicated
in a Hadith in which the Messenger of Alláh :1 says:

,~'5\.Sj1
\
~~j,. . 0L.1JI J ,~~~I
L"'"
G~j,..,,....0(;~I)lIJ ,Jt.:1¡
.rr: GGj,., 02.J\))
,. . .
"Q
r->> , , ' , ¿J..i ll' , LL 1\ lA\.;' l..: 'J I¡ , • vI¡ lA\:; . ,x:.w
/. ,.... e ....o , . . . . ,," ,....,.... JI ~ o .... "" , o
. «,~.)¡,S~ • .) ~ J~.T.) ~ J .. ')
The Punishment for Fornica/ion and Sodomy 318

"The adultery of the eyes is to look (at what is forbidden). The

adultery ofthe ears is the listening. The adultery of the tongue is
the speech. The adultery ofthe hand is the striking. The adultery
of the foot is the walking and the heart desires and wishes."
Sodorny is the anal intercourse between two males. It is an obscene,
disgusting and detested crime. It is destructive to both morality and
manhood. It corrupts the society and kills its morale. It is the cause for
the demise of goodness and blessings on the one hand. On the other
hand it brings about evil, calamities and catastrophes. It is the tool with
which destruction, ruin, disgrace, and humiliation are being cemented.
The reason rejects it. The intact human nature despises it. The laws of
the heavenly religions prohibit it and warn against it. Sodomy is indeed
a great detrirnent and oppression against the two parties of this crime
and against the society itself. It is oppression against the dominant
party, who is taking the rnasculine role, for the disgrace he brought to
himself, and that led to his death and ruin. It is oppression against the
inferior party, who is taking the feminine role, as he degraded himself
and consented to put himself down and destroy his honor by ruining
his manhood. He agreed to be perceived as a woman amongst men, so
he has been and will be humiliated and disgraced until the day he dies.
It is again oppression against the society at large, for the catastrophes
and calamities this ugly crime brings to it. Alláh ~ mentioned what
happened to the people of Lut in the Qurán. Their torment was sent
down to them from the sky, as AIIah ~ turned their town upside down
and rained on them stones of baked clay, thereafter, He said (referring
to their torment, and how it is not far from befalling any people that do
what they did):
.c"\~~
~ ~í-' -' 1,;-'),.
. ,_ ~" Lr-~ IJ'?

and they are not ever far from the aggressors (and the
ce•..

wrongdoers)." (11 :83)

O Muslims! When the society in which sodomy has spread goes
unpunished, it means that Alláh ~ is preparing a greater punishment
than just being destroyed and demolished. This new punishment
involves the deterioration of the hearts, the blindness of the insights,
The Punishment for Fomication and Sodomy 319

and the aduIteration of the intellects, thereafter, each member of the

society will see evil and obscenity as good and purity, and vice versa.
However, if Alláh ~ appoints strong, trustworthy, and just govemors
and rulers for this society, they shall say the truth and abide by it; they
shaIl also practice what Alláh has entrusted them with, without fearing
any power or giving in to any special interest groups. Only then wiII
the society be pious and well guided.
O Muslims! As sodomy is one of the most gruesome and detested
crimes, the punishment for doing it, is also one of the harshest
penalties; it is the capital punishment. The Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
~':/'tl' /1._)':'111 í-:;\~ tí ,-:: /I~;:" ~I~:~J ~:~/
. ({~
/
J/ ~.) r..r:::\..ll..l y::...""..r; y i, jJ u- ~ o~ • J
'/))
(jo"

"If you ever see anyone doing what the People of Lut used to do,
then kill the two parties of sodomy."
The companions of the Prophet had unanimously agreed on
implementing this Hadith, as the scholar of Islam, Ibn Taymiyyah, had
reported. He said that the Companions of the Messenger of Alláh :ll
had never differed with each other on the ruling about the sodomites,
which is to kili both parties. However, they only differed on how to kili
them. Sorne of them said the two must be stoned with rocks, others
said the two must be taken to the highest place in town and thrown
down from there, or to be burnt to death. Nonetheless, both ofthem are
to be executed if they did what they did willingly, regardless of being
Muhsan (married) or not. The punishment is obviously hard, but the
crime is of a harder effect on the society if the culprits are let go
unpunished. They should not be let live in the society, for the epidemic
they could spread is overwhelming. Imagine a society with a bunch of
homosexuals and sodomites living in it. It will be a society without
chastity, morality, or virtue, because these values will be executed and
killed. Certainly, executing those sick and dangerous sodomites is
much better and safer for the society than executing morality, chastity
and virtue.
O Muslims! As members of an Islamic society, which is based on
religious and moral values (Praise be to Alláh), we must strive to hold
The Punishmentfor Fornication and Sodomy 320

fast to our religion and to be endowed with the virtuous morals, All of
us, whether citizens, authorities, or rulers, must strive to stop the
corrupted people to safeguard the society from their corruption. We
must take al! precautions and purge the society from the places of
corruption, where the corrupted meet and pollute. Every parent should
watch out for his/her children, where they go and spend their time, and
who their friends are. Every head of a family must prevent the women
of his household from going out in indecent or ornamented clothes, or
with perfume on, which attracts people to look at them. He should look
after the members of his household not to socíalize with people who
have bad reputation regarding their behavior, for they might be
influenced by it. Every neighborhood should make sure not to let any
corrupted people live in it, and frequently check for the sources of
corruption. All citizens must cooperate in preventing obscenity and
corruption from dwelling in their society. Once every father safeguards
his household, every neighborhood watches out to prevent corruption
in it, every governor protects his country, then when all of this
cooperation takes place, goodness and righteousness will prevail and
happiness will settle. Yet, if they all neglect their duties and their trust,
they will lack happiness and goodness as much as they neglect their B
duties. Alláh ~ says:
.c: ¡ ·...ií"·X... ~"'1~\~,í-:\íi . . ~/ ~t~.t',~¿;'jÍ'" J..
'""\~...r:-~ ".~~!J::,..,~ , ... _"l.JJP

"And as to those who hold fast to the Book (i.e, act on its

teachings) and perform As-Salát tIqámat-as-Saldts, certainly We

shal! never waste the reward of those who do righteous

deeds."(7: J 70)

May Alláh ~ bless us all with His Book and benefit us with its Ayat
and wisdom. By this, 1 conclude my speech and ask Alláh ~ to forgive
all of our wrongdoings. So seek His forgiveness, as He is the All­
Forgiving, Most Merciful.
 The danger 01Backbiting and Slander 321

The Danger of Backbiting and Slander

All praise is for Alláh, the All-Acquainted of what we conceal and
what we reveal. Nothing on the earth or in the heaven is concealed
from Alláh. 1 praise Alláh the way the one whose defects preoccupy
him so much so that he can not look at other people's defects. 1 thank
Him and seek his forgiveness. 1 testify that there is no God worthy of
worship save Alláh alone having no partner with Him, and 1 testify that
Muhammad is His slave and Messenger. May the peace and blessings
be upon him, his family and his Companions, who listened to the
lessons and admonishment and followed the best of them. If they
passed by sorne evil talk, they passed by with dignity. May the same
blessings be upon anyone following on their footsteps, who keeps his
soul and tongue away from harming any Muslim.
O Muslims! Fear Alláh and do not throw yourselves into backbiting
and slander. These two qualities are so dangerous that they destroy the
brotherly relationships and the Islamic bonds among Muslims. It only
takes one of the two qualities to divide a nation, separate between the
hearts of its people, and disclose its weakness to its enemy so that it
JI becomes vulnerable to any of the enemy's attacks. Al-Namimah is to
tell someone what another has said about him for the sake of setting
the two ofthem against each other. This gossip has brought misfortune
to humanity, and been the cause of too many disasters. How many a
time did gossip sow dissention between the man and his brother, the
man and his wife and the man and his friend? Upon which, love turns
to hatred and serenity turns to distress. Knowing that gossip is the
enemy of peace, harmony, and agreement, and the cause for hatred and
feud, how could someone not imagine what it does among friends,
brothers and family members? Many scholars have considered it from
the types of magic. Ibn Abdul-Barr reported from Yahya Bin Kathir
that he said: "The slanderer and liar ruin in one hour what a magician
can not ruin in a whole year." So you who possess superb souls, save
your souls from falling into these low manners. Slander and gossip are
two of the lowest and most repulsive behaviors. They are indeed the
The danger 01Backbiting and Slander 322

qualities of the mean and contemptible people, who violate other

people's privacy and spread their secrets. Too many intact houses were
destroyed, too many families were disunited, and too many innocent
souls were dissipated, all because of gossip and slander.
For this people must verify any information and allegations that come
across, especially when the transmitter is one of those talebearers. In
this regard Alláh ~ says:
~ ,1;: ¡.lo .~:' -,í ,":-'.-.
l.r~~ ~~(.) ~.},>~
e:: ¡.lo ~.1 t~/-:-: G i~ GY-'T.: (.)~'r"
/
.\1~"· -'(-:
....
Jí (~h: A
.. ~_ "f: .7"
»t../ ,/ "..,j""",/

~~*';;W
"O you who believe! If a Fásiq (liar - evil person) comes to
you with any news, verify it, lest you should harm people in
ignorance, and afterwards you become regretful for what you
have done." (49:6)
So do not be deceived by informants and talebearers, for if they are
telling you about sorneone, next time they will tell about you. A
talebearer is also a traitor even when honest. He is negligent of al! the
divine teachings, which condemned his behavior, and threatened those
who slander and walk about with calumnies. He does not fear being
prevented from entering Paradise. The Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
Ilr~ ~\ ~~ :)))
"He who spreads calumnies shall not enter Paradise."
He also said:
.... .... ::; ~;. , g {. ...¡.
((~L,.J
_ -_ ~
'·L:.;JI ~'.<
JJ r ! 1-~ r Y(". \ :J\I)
• '-<~

"Shall I not tell you who the most evil among you are? Those
who walk about with calumnies." (Ahmed)
Backbiting is your mentioning ofyour Muslim brother behind his back
something that he hates, whether this thing is related to his appearance
or behavior, and whether it is true or a lie. The Messenger of Alláh ~
was once asked about backbiting, upon which he replied:

: J~ ~J)r ~ ~ ..¡ ~l5 ~l ~)) Y--J J~ ((~~ ~ iJ~ iJj~))

The danger 01Backbiting and Slander 323
'" .Jo -' 0..­

. (r'~ ~ ~ ~ (.J ~lJ ,~~I ~ j); ~ ~ 0lS élp))

" ... It is your mentioning your brother with what he hates." A
man then asked: "What about if what 1 said about him is true?"
The Prophet said: "If he is like what you said, then you have
backbitten him. Yet, ifhe is not, then you have slandered him."
Fear Alláh! O servants of Alláhl Do not stain your manners and
behavior with backbiting, for Alláh iim has indeed forbidden you to do
so as He said:

"And do not backbite one another." (49: 12)

He then depicted the backbiter in a very ugly scene that provokes
disgust: aman eating from the flesh ofhis dead brother. Alláh ~ said:
Á; -'~ ~ t::.:;.....J.::::t ~t J;bjJ ~
"'C~, • ~.~ r~-. . ~ ~- j"

"Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? You
would hate it (so hate backbiting)." (49:12)
O servants of Alláh! Can a normal person who has dignity and faith
tolerate eating from meat that is a hurnans flesh which belongs to a
dead person and this person is his brother? (That is precisely how ugly
the depiction of backbiting is.)
O Muslims! Stay away from al! these vices. Purify your speech from
saying anything that may be classified as slander or backbiting,
regardless of how trivial it may sound. The Prophet ~ once heard
'Áishah ~ 1\ c.? ~ say something about Safia I..p 1\ c.?~. She said: "It is
sufficient for you that she is such and such (meaning short)." Upon that
the Prophet ~ said:
(r'''';;'~'í ."i\
·.r-'r~~
.u, ::...;..~ ·í¡~
r
. > ~~ l' ¡; Jií))
"You said a word that ifwere mixed with the sea water, it would
spoil it. "
O Muslims! Fear the torture ofthe grave and be aware that slander and
backbiting are sorne of the sins that lead to the torture of the grave. Do
The danger 01Backbiting and Slander 324

not perform the actions that may lead to the torment of Hellfire. In this
respect the Prophct ~ said:
~ :/ ~
¿~'I' ~
~)
"w;t ¡-rCY:.
'- ~í : .::./)/'/
// .. L:.:J\ J'I~Lj~\.:...:
;.. J- ~))

0;S-'~ ~~\ :Jw ~~:Jy. ¿; J:~:' \~ '~).J~3 ~';'J

~
J 0~j '1'81 f?J
o -- J --- ,. ;.
. ((~I:J-\

"When I ascended up through the heavens, on the way I passed

by some people who had nails from copper scratching their own
faces and chests. 1 asked Jibreel: 'who are these people?' He
answered: "They are those who eat the flesh of people and hurt
their honor."
o Muslims! Fear Alláh ~ and have great regard for your brothers'
honor, as it is indeed regarded and preserved according to the
teachings of Islam. The Messenger of Alláh had called for *
prohibiting the degradation of the honor of any Muslim. He said:
J \J.;, I-~y. ~~~ r\;' ~ ¡J:.:.\~j rlJ1;.tj r-5:~: ~lll
'" J __ ...- )/
. ((\~ :. S' "
\~<-I
. \», \/­
:. ~.lli
"It is prohibited upon you to shed the blood of one another, to
claim (unlawfully) the property of one another, to degrade the
honor of one another. They are as prohibited as this day, in a
place like this sacred place, in a month like this Haram (sacred)
month."
These are the teachings of Islam that state clearly the terrible fate of
slanderers and backbiters for the disgraces they spread, and the
shortcomings, defects and errors of the people that they pursue. Their
example in that is like the example of the fly that does not land except
on foul-smelling trash. They further state the adverse effects of
backbiting and slander on the society. Islam has prohibited its
followers from pursuing the defects and errors of one another, as the
Prophet ~ said:

.
((
~
,/ ., /
'-!y
. ' / ", './
~ ~
~ / ' ¿ , / "~'\ / "':. ~
J->- ..... )Y...", ~ ~ ~).r 0"'"' (.;A
r
\ d 1\ . ',~ /~:;. /))
The danger Di Backbiting and Slander 325

"Alláh pursues the errors of hirn, who pursues the errors of the
Muslirns, until he is exposed even in the very rniddle of his
horne."
Alláh ~ says:
,...'.;,.

CJí ~ ?] ~\~ ? };.:I: 6~í,., ~ ~í ~ üT 0~ ~~í ,.1;1 ~

/ ' ­

~~;:r,;,1 ;:;};~%~~~1)
"Verily, those who like that (the crirne of) illegal sexual
intercourse should be propagated arnong those who believe, they
will have a painful torrnent in this world and in the Hereafter.
And Alláh knows and you know not." (24: 19)
May Alláh ~ bless us all with His Book and benefit us with its Áyat
and wisdorn. By this, 1 conclude rny speech and ask Alláh ~ to forgive
all of our wrongdoings. So seek His forgiveness, as He is the All­
Forgiving, Most Merciful.
Chapter 5

AL-RIQAQ

(Talks that Soften

the Heart)

Repentance 329

Repentance

All praise is for Alláh, the Bestower, the Most Merciful and the
Acceptor ofRepentance. Who created man from dirt and equipped him
with the ability to fulfill his obligations, by providing him with the
necessary intellectual abilities. 1 testify with no doubt whatsoever, that
there is no god worthy of worship except Alláh Alone, having no
partner with Him. 1 testify that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger
to whom the Book of Alláh was revealed as a guide and reminder for
those who have reasoning. May peace and blessings be upon him, his
family, his Companions and everyone that follows their guidance and
in their footsteps until the Day of Returning.
O people, fear Alláh ~ and repent to Him, for He indeed loves those
who repent. Seek His forgiveness for your sins, as He is the Oft­
Forgiving. Do so with pure intentions, stopping your sins immediately,
regretting them, and determining to never go back to them again. This
is the penance that Alláh ~ ordered you to perform; He said:
-:ñ ·1'~ -,~, > ~ L'-:: Jí J-\ 1-~~ í ~-(6jí (~b:;lo
r-"C"r;:--::
; . .(--.-:.
~ ~ u ("""'~ <.>- :ra> . ~ " ~ ~"" 'r" '. 'r: . r
'" >::'l¡'\
",..r+> .J • ~..sr ~
4':¿ . ,-: . ,~- ['-
~..J.;.J
.~~ -»>

"O you who believe! Tum to AIIáh with sincere repentance! It

may be that your Lord will expiate from you your sins, and
admit you into Gardens under which rivers tlow (Paradise)."
(66:8)
Thus, repentance is not one's saying: "1 repent to Alláh," or "O Alláh
~, forgive me!" while at the same time one insists on sinning, being
careless about the sin he has committed or intends again to go against
AIIáh' s commandments.
O people, repent to Alláh before it is too late-when the doors of
Repentance are shut before you. Alláh keeps the doors of repentance
open for man until the time of his death when his soul reaches his
throat (upon separation from the body), after which his penance will
not be accepted. Alláh ~ says:
Repentance 330

,;l-f! ;~ ...... ::. /,' )'~" ~{ ~l\-:::" "..-~ lí~;i:;;;

1o.J F~ f.r.. ~Y.Y"...JO-' ~ :,-
/.'"
• ..::.:.J.; "
.ili jí i~ i::;'!lí
Ij" :.r'.
WI.. i.Y
~ lJ~·~\í.·:~í;0~~)l.&í6~~;í;'~í.:j~"
5J;;;.~" .~,.~ ~ .' " 'j;" .

0 / -.;r.r-;.
)';/ ;:¡í~"'5Gl""~\
...~ .....-..l\.j-lJ
.. ,.
J
lA .,. -.:....u. 1
-"-?
)' ;.J';'~\)')'
.....~ ~lJ"'\~,,-::-. ;;.,: ;:'; \~l--¿'
~-I.>I ~.) ",.-.;.,.
lw...lr----.,lt",.:J'
\'·....-::f\
"':;'
~

.(\::jh~\~ ·-'ilrí-::~t~1-.í:¡j~~;
~ -". r .. .J ) r .J
"Alláh accepts only the repentance of those who do evil in
ignorance and foolishness and repent soon afterwards; it is they
whom Alláh wil! forgive and Alláh is Ever AlI-Knower,
All- Wise. And of no effect is the repentance of those who
continue to do evil deeds until death faces one of them and he
says: 'Now J repent;' nor of those who die while they are
disbelievers. For them We have prepared a painful torment."
(4: 17,18)
o Muslims! Rush to repentance, for you do not know when you will be
surprised by death or the chastisement of Almighty Alláh! Alláh ~
says:

u1r/{rí
'J""
-: 1.J"105)'
jif ~ t·)', 6::l::::.t ~
~ r"".J
p.i; ..>ot'(:'~rí
'0
1:1 -: ..~ i.Y
~.r' l.J"" ~
• •

~l -:í;L.:'.~ ... t-)í¡~-:í"'L..-/i~ üi --:';:1..)';'" ~ L::..:..t """'.Í'

..~ .r---V". ~ ~ ~ O..> .~.J~ o .~.

~5~ír;iií
"Did the people of the towns then feel secure against the coming
of Our punishment by night while they were asleep? Or, did the
people of the towns then feel secure against the coming of Our
punishment in the forenoon while they were playing? Did they
then feel secure against the Plan of Alláh? None feels secure from
the Plan of Alláh except the people who are the losers." (7:97-99)
O servants of Alláhl Do you feel that you can escape the Plan of Alláh
~? While He bestows his favors upon you, you continue to be
rebellious and disobedient. Do you not notice the world around you
and what happened to those who kept sinning untiJ Alláh S~ afflicted
them with hardship and tribulations in their life. Many parts of the
world have been afflicted with famine, floods, and Jack of crops and
Repentance 331

rain; yet the thinkers and intellectuals of the world are trying to study
the options of food provision for the world's population. Does this not
deter you? Certainly Alláh ~ respites the oppressor until, when it is
time, He seizes him with a firm grip. Alláh says:

~~~~:'J:i~~~~Jl;~í)i..~í~~~~:1:t~!.:Jj"
"Such is the Seizure of your Lord when He seizes the
(population of) towns while they are doing wrong. Verily, His
Seizure is painful (and) severe." (11: 102)
The worst punishment in this life is hardness ofthe heart. Many people
have hard hearts these days. They hear the admonishing advice and
read the admonishing and impressive Ayat from the Book of Alláh ~
and the Sunnah ofthe Prophet ss, yet they do not listen and their hearts
are not even touched. The best among them would only be touched just
at the moment of listening and understanding such admonishment, but
after a while the impact recedes, and heedlessness prevails again. Then
they are back again to business as usual. For instance, they hear the
warning regarding those who do not pray or if they pray, they are
careless about their prayers. Alláh ~ says:
.;'" ':11
-:: aL:&:.·' -;.1. ".//.w~//"'\'\-"":;:;"'\~~~~/I\·\""l--:'f
,,,,,,,.,---,, • '.;j'.
¡.."
. . , . ~"""I~'}l..l..l·
·"r ,.. .;
. [."
()A ~ • u~<J~ ~ ~'J í':~ .~

~yt
"Then, there has succeeded them a posterity who have given up
As-Salát (the prayers) [i.e., made their Salát (prayers) to be lost,
either by not offering them or by not offering them perfectly or
by not offering them in their proper fixed times] and have
followed lusts. So they will be thrown in Hel!. Except those who
repent." (19:59,60)
y et they do not repent, just as they had never heard anything to that
effect. They would hear the Áyat warning those who fail to pay their
Zakát dues or ifthey do pay it, they pay with the worst oftheir money.
They hear about their punishment, but even then, they do not respondo
Alliih ~ says:
Repentance 332

"And woe to Al-Mushrikún (the polytheists, idolaters,

disbelievers in the Oneness of Alláh), Those who give not the
Zakát" (41:6,7)

They do not perform the Zakát of the soul which is intended to purify
it from Shirk (taking partners with AIW.h in worship). They also do not
perform the Zakdt ofthe wealth and they follow their whims instead of
obeying Alláh in giving away charity from the part of their wealth that
is dear to them. Alláh ~ says:
~ .. ~t ¡__.J./.~\/ ~ • -' . " . , -.:f . / / .y , Jo ..... ~ -: f' ( j. ~,,/ "'" ~
¡¡¡I¡JI ···\~-,u'~¡J\ ,¡I Al»~ • -,0~A:.A~\'~')I.
'.r-' /_"JT"'""'"~- ........ " .... :.. ~-", M;' ~-...- J

.,(J /~.~
"Z.;..¿..-~
" ... and do not aim at that which is bad to spend from, (though)
you would not accept it save ifyou close your eyes and tolerate
therein. And know that Alláh is Rich (Free of all needs), and
Worthy of aH praise." (2:267)
They hear all that and yet they insist on not paying their Zakát dues.
By this, they deprive themselves from the blessings oftheir wealth and
save it for others (i.e., their heirs). One Hadith states that when people
spread sins and corruption in their society, they will be afflicted with
diseases and illnesses, which were unknown to their predecessors.
When they tamper with the scale used in weighing goods for people,
they will be subjected to famine, loss of provisions and the oppression
of their rulers. When they cease to pay their ZaM! dues they will be
afflicted with lack of rain, and if it were not for the sake of the animals,
they would never receive any rain. When they breach their pledges to
Alláh and His Messenger, Alláh will cause an enemy that is not from
them to overpower them and take sorne of what is in their possession.
When their rulers and Imam cease to govern by the Book of Alláh ~,
He will cause thern to use their strength against each other. Yes,
although they hear the commandment of Alláh regarding the False
Testimony, they still practice it as if they had not heard or understood
what Alláh ruled concerning it. In this regard, Alláh ~ says:
Repentance 333

"O you who believe! Obey Alláh and His Messenger, and turn
not away from him (Le., Messenger Muhammad ii) while you
are hearing. " (8:20)
O people, there shalI be no penance accepted if the one repenting still
insists on doing the same sins. How could someone repent for cheating
in his business transactions, when he is at the same time willing to
cheat again? How could someone repent for backbiting while still
involved in it and wilIing to do it every chance he or she has? How
could he repent for usurping people's money and property while at the
same time still doing so; either by claiming what is not his, denying
people's rights to their own property, Iying in his bargains with them,
staying on someone's property without his consent, or by using Riba
(usury) in his dealing with the people? In regard to this, the Prophet ~
said:
-¡ 01 :P f;..i\ J~ ~f; j1 ~~ ~ ~0.iu ~~ ~\j 0L5 ~))
•

. «,?l~~ IIJ ,?L:::..;jl 'Íl(..Á J: j1 )~: 0~

"He who owes his brother something or has wronged him should
reconcile with him and pay his debt today, before there is no
Dirham or Dinar (on the Day of Judgement). Paying will only
be with the good deeds and taking the bad deeds."
O Muslims, as repentance entails renouncing and regretting the sin and
determining to never come back to it again, it also entails intending to
do the obligations as much as possible. By this, the persa n becomes
truly penitent and deserving of the love of Alláh ~, for He says:

"Truly, Alláh loves those who turn unto Him in repentance and
laves those who purify themselves (by taking a bath and
cleaning and washing thoroughly their private parts and bodies
for their prayers)." (2:222)
O Muslims, repent to Alláh '1m, and beg Him to forgive you by seeking
His forgiveness with your speech as well as from your hearts. Alláh,
the Most High says:
Repentance 334

""-.'-: 0~jí ~J"

~'---""'~........ . ... ""
¿"";-:~tí ¿; :&í"?'c...l;., Y

...:.~ ....._
~

"And all of you beg AIHih to forgive you all, O believers, that
you may be successful." (24:31)
Rush to repentance before you reach your set time to die. Thereafter,
you will never be given another chance to repent, and you will
therefore die as a sinner. Sorne people are deceived by their hopes or
by Satan and hence keep putting off repentance until their hearts
become hard as rocks because of the sins they insist on, until the doors
of repentance are no longer open, or until death surprises them. Then it
will be too late to repent or make amends.
O Alláh, make it easy for us to always hurry and repent for our sins
and go back to what p1eases you. O AIHih! Cleanse our hearts from
hatred, hypocrisy, seeking status by our actions and Riyá' (doing a
good deed for showing off). O Alláh! Keep our Muslim brethren and
us away frorn Iying, cheating and giving false testimony! Help us to be
honest and sincere in our dealings with people. Keep us away from all
the forbidden things and frorn all sins. O Alláh, answer our prayer,
Amen! And praise be to Alláh, the Lord of all creation.
Fearing Alldh 's Punishment 335

Fearing Alláb 's Punishment

AJI praise is for Alláh Who has merey on whomever He wishes, and
punishes whomever He wishes, and to Him you will retum. 1 bear
witness that there is no god worthy ofworship except Alláh and 1 bear
witness that Muhammad is the slave and Messenger of Alláh Who sent
him with the guidance and true religion; may peace and blessings be
upon him, his family and Companions. Alláh, the Most High, said:
,,( 1~.!1:;" ~ e: ~.\ :k
~ ...... ..:-~~-i.r

"Verily, (O Muhammad ~) the Seizure (punishment) of your

Lord is severe and painful." (85:12)
And said:
"'" '" • -:: j.,/ "'" Jo/.~-; .-.; /. ,.,. /,Jo.~///..-'/ ",.,A,/. /" .-:~~
0.J:~ I..! 0~ O..l:~ ~¡ ,•.1;..¡ 0~ 4ili ~J ~~\ ~¡ \~~ 4--' ~¡ ~.j.).J r
/ ..

l::~ O~J~ ~~ r;' S1lj~~LJí ~ P /.".. lE.,/

r~ ~3~~1L;:I\~ ~,¿;.p.~~
'" .. /;

~~~ -: j~~ F
"11~ ~
(, ,. " ' . .... / .J.
~~-~ ,~~\., ~.:X
CJ::'" ~ _,,~,. " - ¡Y.. O ....)1) ~
n/ l~~ ~\ :'J.~~.
~ _ ¡.. 'J'::y
,Á..JJo //
"'l::~.J
"Such is the Seizure of your Lord when He seizes the
(population of) towns while they are doing wrong. Verily, His
Seizure is painful (and) severe. Indeed in that (there) is asure
lesson for those who fear the torment of the Hereafter. That is a
Day whereon mankind will be gathered together, and that is a
Day when all (the dwel1ers ofthe heavens and the earth) will be
present. And We delay it only for a term (already) fixed. On the
Day when it comes, no person shall speak except by His
(Alláh's) Leave. Sorne among them will be wretched and
(others) blessed." (11:102-105)
Anas ~ narrated that the Messenger of Alláh ~ had delivered a speech
to them in which he said:
. (ti" .~ 0_~_02+ 5W '..~(_';,í ~_ í ~ L;; 0y :J :-: oí))
..r.::-' r : - 7 ) _. ,-.~ \ Jo'
Fearing Alláh 's Punishment 336

"If you only knew what 1 know, you would laugh little, yet weep
alot."
Thereupon, the Companions ofthe Praphet ~ covered their faces and a
sound of sobbing was heard. (Agreed upon)
Another narration states that the Messenger of Alláh ~ was told
something about his Companions upon which he delivered a speech
and said:
~ ~jj:éJJ <1.11) ~\ J rj:)L5) ¡J.;~81) iW\ j; ~;))
-- ,,--- ? ,0 /-" "'0;'
. ((\".r.:-'
"< '.'-'CT
¡7'":"J
)Lü \--:-~ '_1~1
'.'<-;,\ ¡ ­ r >

"1 was shown the Heavens and the Fire of Hell, thus I have not
seen a day like this day in evil and in good. If you only knew
what 1 know, you would laugh a little and weep a lot"
There had not been a day harder on the Companions of the Praphet ~
than that day. They then covered their heads and a sound of Khaneen
(the sound of catching the breath while sobbing) was heard frorn them.
Al-Miqdad ~ narrated that he heard the Messenger of Alláh ~ say:
~
J~ _ rJ=':-.J
l . 1:i.W' '.'
_, ~
, "
~.~ ~' J..WI ~ ~WJI -" , '-'1\ ~l;))
..Y" cr": ~, -, i Yo u---' ¡J
" / j

- / '
¡jGl.',L,
~ ~
.'-~ -¿!;i~4Í!I'~
~ _ y :~\:Gi..JI·-
_ , ~ C?~ ~ 1"11
J' -(-
~~"_'í'"
<J. ¡::-­
'" // //J'" "JO "",o;' ~
'.~,\~í .l.; 1::' 81.) ("'~ _ ~ <1\ ""
!...r- 0'" Y"::" or: _~ ~
'I'::'("~
-¿ -U1.l. '1
(J':::; r\ ~.J
.' 'J\
'.' ,'.' ' 6..J
0-" ~J _.
"
' JI.)C
-"J J

, Y". 0'" ~J , ..
'" ""J J
~ - ,'.' ' .....::.:.s JI .)("~ ~ -, s : . -<1\ .
,..Y"- 0'" ~ '-? r ~
"'''

,- '0.1'J ~c;j\
¡ -.i1Jii;4Í!1 j ..r").J '-<II'~ ~-,~J'.' - ~'~' J'I S .~~
J' ~~, " ~r " _0'" ,-~ , Y".
. ((-..j

"On the Day of Resurrection, the sun draws so near to the

creatures (íncluding people) that there would be left only a
distance of a mile." Suleim bin Aamir, the one who transmitted
this Hadith frorn Al-Miqdad, said: "Well, 1 do not know what
was meant by Al-meel; whether it was the mile of distance on
land, or the small stick women use to apply kohl on their
eyelids." The Prophet continued, " ... thus peop le will be covered
 Fearing Alláh's Punishment 337

with their sweat according to their actions: sorne wilI be covered

in sweat until their ankles; sorne will be covered up until their
knees; sorne wíll be covered up to their waists; and sorne will be
bridled with their sweat." Then The Messenger of Alláh ~
pointed at his rnouth. (Muslim)
Abu Hureirah ~ narrated that the Messenger of Alláh ji; had said:
.~ Jt 4:í ~J ~~I sJ,1 ~~ '1l; ~lJ ~~,j '1l; ¿) ;1»
,..tI'
J • J'~ "..t IJ>L:..
,.
>'>'"
~ L, ~'1'J .1JL'J'11'
., "'-;' ~) "1>L~__ yo 1:~~ l;
~ G;¡ ;..: -ÓeÓ>:

fi ~ú~ ~1J1 L;..ÍJ \~ ~J ~ ~ ~ l; ~;j:~)

.(J~J >¡;~ ,..tI J~ ~J~~ '?\:\ ~ ~\ J1 ~;JJ · .;~\
"Verily,I see what you do not see. The heaven moaned (from
being so loaded with angels), and it has the right to moan;
there is not in it as rnuch as the space of four-finger span but
there is an angel prostrating before Alláh ~. By Alláh if you
only knew what 1 know, you would laugh little, yet cry a lot;
you would never enjoy your wives in bed; and you would go
out to the open roadseagerly asking Alláh ~ to help you." (At­
Tirmidhi)
I Abu Baraza Fadhlah Bin Ubeid AI-Aslarni ~ said that the Messenger
of Alláh ~ had said:
~ ~"
",(fJ
.~~h~ o
-"r(f
~~ '.' J~
'~'"
:' ¡;,t:..J\ ", ~ l;~ J ~ '1»
iY-,. s.r
W" '~
,
:~' .~ ;..,jJ'
• L.r J I "
.~.'<51
.
~ '1: .Jl; :~'J .w
I.f.. ~" L.r
'1:: W"
" , u--

. «~~¡
"A person (slave of Alláh) will rernain standing on the Day of
Resurrection until he is questioned about his lifetirne and how he
passed it, his knowledge and what he did with it, his wealth and
how he acquired it and in what way he spent it, and his body and
how he wore it out." (At- Tirmidhi)
'Áishah ~ 11~.J said she heard the Messenger of Alláh ~ say:
Fearing Alláh 's Punishment 338

"The people would be gathered on the Day of Resurrection

barefooted, nude, and uncircumcised." 1 said: "O Alláh's
Messenger! Will the men and women be looking at one
another?" Thereupon, the Messenger of Alláh ~ said: "O
'Áishah! The matter would then be too serious for them to look
at one another." (Agreed upon)
Abu Hurairah ~ narrated that the Messenger of Alláh ~ had said:
01 ~í ,J pi d j1 ..j~ ~))
-;;;,.,,: .". '" /0 ..... / 0"'/ -Ó: -Ó>

01 ~í ,~~ /.tul ~ ~ d;¡ ~J

u....
}...- o '" o
. ((&JI.tu1
. /

"He who is afraid (ofthe enemy) shal! set out in the early part of
the night, and he who sets out early arrives at his destination.
Verily, Alláhs commodity (reward) is precious. Verily, Alláh's
commodity is Paradíse."
Abu Hurairah ~ also narrated that the Messenger of Alláh ~ recited:
e 'G' ct~.>.:J
,,\'.J.
~./ ).
//~y.r

"That Day it (the earth) will declare its information (about al!
that happened over it of good or evil)." (99:4)
And then said:
/1+'·: 0t G!.)t;.t)) :J~ .0-t~j;':J/.&1 :I)~ ((G!.)t;.t ~ 0J.)~h
./ . 1iS"/ liS" ~
ry--/..) / : Jy.;~: /1- ~ ~
l:. í;,
LÁ> "
~~~~•
;:.;t .),t ~ "I( í ~
•. u~
..... '" ..... ..... ..... ...­

. .~ ,L.i.S"J 115
. ((G!).::';"¡ / /

"Do you know what its news is?" They said: "Alláh and His
Messenger know best." He said: "(lts news is that it shall testify
against every roan and woman regarding that which they did on
its back, saying: You did this and this on such and such day.
That will be its information." (At-Tirmidhi)
Fearing Alláhs Punishment 339

Adi bin Hatim 4'0 narrated that the Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
,..- " ...... iI' ,..-:::;...... ,r -; "
Y¿~"i~\;:', ,0~'~Y¿'Y¿' '\Y.sy~ '_C.~))
1)

::¡I..b-\',
• ..r-:" . J' .. J .. ...r-::'.J " ~. ~ r-::::
F- <l;: JI. ,r "" ,. ­
jo

._ "~..;---..J ('
/. .....
.:,::t; ~ e Yl:.:~' ,'J..; ~
.....

~ 0J.
'1\ .'
..... ......
,:>\!y¿ .~\ YI:.:~'
• (' ..;---..J
,'J..;
('
,..- '"
~ ~I
~ -SJ'.
// ':>\!

. ((ó~ ~ ):, j8\ I;;~ '~J ;~ j8\ '11-S].. ~

" "',... ....­

"None of you will be resurrected but that his Lord will speak to
him without an interpreter between them. He would look at his
right and see nothing but the deeds he had set forward. He
would look at his left and see nothing but again the deeds he had
set forward. He would further look in front of him, yet see
nothing but the Fire of Hell in his face. So protect yourselves
from the Fire, even by (giving in charity) half a date." (Agreed
upon)
Samurah Bin Jundub ~ said that the Messenger of Alláh ~ had said:
O~......
~. e y: •
cr" ~J ••~ <S~
-.j~'
jo ,...-
1\
y. jo
~..b:-l; ~.
r:.r , y:
~J ."'
'....::.:..s <S~\1 yJ 81 ~..b:-¡; r:.r
,...-"
~. , Y.' »
jo jo"

~
",.... ..... y. jo o~/

,((9:; J1~J.:,:.L;
"There will be sorne to whose ankle the tire will reach, sorne to
whose knees it will reach, sorne to whose waist the fire will
reach, and sorne to whose coIlarbone the fire will reach."
Nu'rnan bin Bashir 4'0 narrated that the the Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
~ii
." y'. ,'·r·
"I~·í ¡:;~I
~ '-1: (::PY- u:.r . ". ('Y-,
~I~ 81 l:.r ~"r ~II)
!
y
lJ'" uJA u~
do.

~~\r Y~lJ ~\~ Y~ ~r I:b-r 01 -s]. ~ /¿~: \~+:~ ~ ~G~

. (( ~\..;.;
"The inhabitant of Hell who wil1 have the lightest punishment
will be he who has two sanda! straps offire from which his brain
will bubble like a pot, and he will think that no one is having a
more severe punishment than he, although his is the lightest
punishment." (Agreed upon)
Ibn Umar ~ narrated that the Messenger of Alláh ~ had said:
Fearing Al/ah 's Punishment 340

"The people would stand before Alláh, the Lord of the worlds,
while each of them would be submerged in his sweat up to the
middle ofhis ears."
Alláh ~ says:

r;,~ '1~:jI ~ J] ~~ ~í j;=:A~)i~J r;~I: &~ ,X ~\. t

.c-: >. -: '~'-Jf-_t';:::N1~ '/é-:- ~~t~~ "''''J'''(í< ~'é '" "'/~n~"i'" .-:í?
'-...:..J~~~j¡t'-"",~...\...~Irf.b \..W~~~\i;j ~~b

"Has not the time come for the hearts of those who believe (in
the Oneness of Alláh - Islámic Monotheism) to be affected by
Alláhs Reminder (this Qur'án), and that which has been
revealed of the truth, lest they become as those who received the
Scripture [the Taurát (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel)] before
(i.e. Jews and Christians), and the term was prolonged for them
and so their hearts were hardened? And many of them were
Fdsiqún (the rebellious, the disobedient to Alláh)." (57: 16)
May Alláh ~ bless us all with His Book and benefit us with its Áyat
and wisdom. By this, 1 conclude my speech and ask Alláh ~ to forgive
aH of our wrongdoing. So seek His forgiveness as He is the All­
Forgiving Most Merciful.
The Signs o/the Hour 341

Tbe Signs of tbe Hour

AH praise is for Alláh Alone, and may peace and prayer be upon the
Finality of the Messengers. I bear witness that there is no god worthy
of worship except Alláh Alone, having no partners. I also bear witness
that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.
o Muslims! The Hour has preludes and signs. Sorne of the signs are
what the Messenger of Alláh mentioned:
~<'I\ ...:/',~~ ',:.::J\ ~~ ~~\.I\ <,~ ~ ,~L:J\ .b\~ "1 ~
~ . .r-'-J ~ ..J ¡-;- c:
f- r:»: ~ 0\))~
.«~)i~j
"Verily it is from the signs of the Hour that knowledge will be
lifted, ígnorance will settle, Khamr (intoxicating beverages) will
be drunk and Zina (fomication: to have sex out of wedlock) will
spread."
The aforementioned Hadith states four signs of the Hour, which are
deemed as sorne of the Hour' s most important and apparent signs.
These signs are the prelude to the ruin of the world, the end of this life
and the demise of all living things. The Hour shall not emerge except
after the earth is overwhelmed with evil and disbelief There shall be
no good left on it. Ignorance, misery, evil and infidelity will again
prevail. People will no longer believe in the messages sent by Alláh ~
to them, so complete aberration shall rule over their life. The
Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
. 1I>.w\~.w\ : J~ ¿.;. ~:/~\::~ J;j ~L:JI f'; :]»
"The Hour wíll emerge while there is no one on earth saying
Alláh, Alláh."
The Hour has minor signs that have already appeared and other major
sígns that have yet to appear. These major signs will begin wíth the
appearance of Al-Mahdi, who will fill the land with justice as it had
been fil1ed with injustice and oppression before. After that the Dajjal
(false messiah) wil1 appear, then follows the descent of Isa ~\. The
The Signs o/the Hour 342

emergence of Gog and Magog people will come after the descent of
Isa ;%§JI, then the rest ofthe major signs shall follow.
The minor signs that have already appeared are many. You may learn
about most of them by observing what the MusJims do and have these
days; likc; obscenity, lack of modesty and disobeying Alláh in public,
refusing to pay the Zakát dues, betraying the trust and competing in
committing sins. The minor signs of the Hour also inelude affluence
and materialistic life, such as the life ofthe barefooted, and naked ones
who once before were herdsmen and dwelled in the desolate desert and
that are now competing in constructing high and lofty buildings, and
bouncing from one Juxury to another. Thus they have mansions, luxury
vehieles, furniture, furs and feathers.
The four signs mentioned earlier in the Hadith constitute the most
obvious signs in this category. The first and the second signs are stated
in the part saying: "knowledge will be lifted and ignorance will settJe,"
so what does that mean? Alláh ~ does not lift knowledge by removing
it from the hearts of the scholars or tearing it out of their hearts, but by
their death, thereupon, their knowledge dies with them. The Messenger
of Alláh ~ said:
,,/ j. j. ,...:1 .. ""./ <JI,....." /'}r'I J. J.. o. j. ...... -i >, ~

\o~;";;~ os-~ ~-' ~\.J\ ~l.Ml !-,J-t> ~ ~I t.;f. '1 .¡J¡I 0P)
'" t
. ((¡jl ;.'/0'" tI "'''}'' '"
:'/~0 -;~. 0o-._o~JI~~"
[,;\ _o/' ,O_'A\.,~~I "",,, "ll /.} .....{ '" /' .. "... ..

~-' ~
.P-::' ~ -e-r U" ~ ¡;;-"7'~ /
"Alláh does not take away the knowledge by taking it from (the
hearts oí) the scholars, but takes it away by the death of the
scholars until when none of them remains, people will rely on
ignorant leaders who when consulted will give their verdict
without knowledge. So they will go astray and will lead others
astray." (Al-Bukhárii
The scholars are the light of this life, the torches of righteousness and
the lanterns of guidance. Thus when they die and leave no one to take
their place and fill the void they have left behind, the light will
diminish, and life will turn dark, ignorance wiIl prevail and people will
go astray in the midst of darkness. The Messenger of Alláh said: *
..¡:. ~ -S~ ,~~\ ~ i~\ /
"W
/
~}j\ ~ ~~\ ~ 0P
The Signs 01 the Hour 343

.((~\~\ ~ ~r .!J'~) r;¿JI ': / ~b';\ \~~ ¡ pl):;J1 ~l~í~

"The example of the scholars is like the stars in the sky, by
which people are shown their way in the darkness of land and
sea. Yet when the stars fade they wiII probable go astray."
The Messenger of AIIah ~ also said:
. lIó' . '}I ~ G.:;.'
LlJl ~ ~ ~ ,~,,~ ~LJ.;j1 \ ~ ~\})
¡
,f: 0':- Cr \*,,,
J .Y-:
"Follow the scholars. Verily they are the lights of this Jife and
the lantems ofthe Hereafier."
We watch eminent and noble scholars die, yet there is no one to
succeed them in their knowledge and favors. Their lights die down
with them, yet no one lights them afierward. If this is to continue that
ofien, we shall not wait long before we go out searching for a scholar
or even a seeker of knowledge or a student of a scholar, but to no avail.
Thereafier, ignorance in the religion wil! prevail so much so that we
wiII never understand its truth and guidance.
1 see the people of knowledge passing away one afier the other, leaving
us with a tremendous void, yet no one can truly fill it. Their successors
are far less in knowledge than they, though no one can take their place
except their students. It is true that we began to suffer from the lack of
scholars, because the Muslims had turned away from the religion and
the Muslim educated youth had abstained from learning the knowledge
of the religion, perceiving it as the cause for humiliation and
infcriority. Thus, the Muslim countries are badly lacking the Islamic
schools that teach this knowledge (the Shariah knowledge). So what
are the consequences of these dangerous developments? Ignorance,
ignorance and ignorance are the consequences. Ignorance will settle
and prevail and the ignorant people wiII be the imams and leaders,
which must definitely lead to manifest aberration. What is really heart
breaking is that the general population of Muslims has become so
ignorant in their religion, that they fail to distinguish between good and
bad, righteousness and evil, or the permissible and the impermissible.
This, of course, has led them to indulge in sinning. The Messenger of
AII<1h ~ said:
The Signs 01 the Hour 344
",-' ,.... ~.... ,.... (1" (1 ...

. 11~J5~~)~I~))
. '

"Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim."

What have the Muslims done regarding this obligation? They have
suspended it and become content with being ignorant. Moreover, they
yielded to ignorance and turned away from knowledge. They have
forsaken learning their religion, surrendered to their lusts and yielded
to their whims. For that reason, they have become lost and astray.
O Muslims, the third and fourth signs mentioned in the same Hadith are
drinking Khamr (intoxicating beverages), the mother of al1 sins, and
fornication, the head of vice, which shall not spread in a nation, except
when this nation have reached the utmost of corruption and vice.
The Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
.... ,......-..... ........ ,.,

~jj ¡;')\..ÁJI ~:; ;...>JI ..;-.; .; • !~I ;Slj ~\yJl

6..... .... \) o~ .... (1

Pr;JI))
, / (1

, ~ /

. «dG-' ~'':'¡ \~.

" J '/ J , ¡J""'"
"Al-Khamr (intoxicating beverages) is the mother of all sins.
The most major sin is that aman drinks Khamr, does not pray,
and rapes his (paternal) mother, his aunt, and his mother's
sister. "
The Messenger of Alláh ~ also said:
.11.&1 úlí;.· ~(L ¡tí '11 ,¡;.~ . vt¡ í ~~t¡ ,-;G. 1,;,11
, . ~~.r-- .r'-f'- ...7' ~ ..7' ft"""'
f; ••

"Fornication and usury would never appear in a nation, except

that it will be exposed to Alláhs chastisement."
.IICt¡JJ'· . ·-;l:.~·.íl,;, ,~~·L~l:.. L2·~ -"tj\-:'''¡J)
..7' -'~~í r r~..r
"My nation shall still be well and adhering to its command
(Islam) up until the illegitimate children become widespread
within its people."
There is no doubt that thc Hour will come, and that Alláh ~ will
resurrect the dwellers of the graves. When the world is coming to an
end and the signs ofthe Hour have started to appear one after the other,
we must keep remembering that terrifying day and prepare ourselves
The Signs 01 the Hour 345

for death and whatever comes after it. Moreover, we must strive to
depart this life with pure souls that have not been stained with sins and
wrongdoings, and with intact hearts that have not been overwhelmed
with the love for this world. Alláh ~ says:
L" /".> Y-:: -:> /" '-:N:í •.> 1// :lo.­
"'t~-:?w~Á&-l:..l\j.J~-:?~~J r
"What do you know? It may be that the Hour is near!" (33 :63)
O Alláh! Give us in this world that which is good and in the Hereafter
that which is good, and save us from the torment of the Fire! O Alláh!
Better our conclusions in al! matters, and save us from the torment of
Fire and disgrace on ludgement Day! O Alláh! Fill us with patience and
make us die as Muslims! AH praise is for Alláh the Lord of all worlds.
1 seek refuge with Alláh from Satan the outcast. Alláh ~ says:

~ f*:(Jo' rt'
o.}
,
.jO -/" /" 0p,' -:f-:" ~~/" \
oÍ
. '~~\.i\,",\9
~ U'
' >/Ot -/ 0//7/0/
',\~~..wÁ:AJ
~. .
F f~ i / /11'\' ....f /~.>, . / / ~
('T."/'\:iw\~ú\ J\l.> ,,_ \.~
'. U't""

"Do they then await (anything) other than the Hour that it should
come upon them suddenly? But some of its portents (indications
and signs) have already come; and when it (actually) is on them,
how can they benefit then by their rem inder?" (47: 18)
May Alláh ~ bless us all with His Book and benefit us with its Áyat
and wisdom. By this, 1 conclude my speech and ask Alláh ~ to forgive
all of our wrongdoings. Seek His forgiveness, as He is the AH
Forgiving, Most Merciful.
Patience 346

Patience

All praise is for Alláh, He is the Lord, the Merciful and the Judge. We
praise Him for what He decrees in every age. He is the Gracious and
Kind to His slaves, especially when they are inflicted with grief and
worries. He has promised those who are patient to receive their full
reward without reckoning. 1 testify that there is no god worthy of
worship except Alláh Alone, having no partners. 1 testify that
Muhammad is His slave and Messenger, the one who was patient with
what Alláh had afflicted him with, on obeying Alláh's commandments,
and on the harassment by the people. May the peace and blessings of
Alláh be upon him, his family, his Companions and any one who
follows in their footsteps until the Day of Judgement.
O people! Fear Alláh, the Most High, and know that the status of
patience compared to the religion is like the head to the body. He who
has no patience has no faith, and he who tries to be patient, Alláh ~
will help him to be patient. No one has been given a grace better than
the grace of patience. Patience is the quality by which one can
distinguish between strong and courageous people and weak and
cowardly people. It is the quality of all the Messengers, and the
ornament of the pious and righteous people. Describing the slaves of
the Most Gracious, Alláh ~ said:

~wC:~~~¿'~~~~¿~í¿,~.~j ~
"Those will be rewarded with the highest place (in Paradise)
because of their patience. Therein they shall be met with
greetings and the word of peace and respect." (25:75)
About the dwellers of Paradise, He ~ said:
s. <.e >»:» .... ,,/~>,,/// ?"':í-:"""/ /,;~ ///»P/-'k'1:T.. . . . ~
"{-!W\~~(J.40~~~O'j;'~-t ':¿~0J.>..l:· -: 1.,7
"And angels shall enter unto them from every gate (saying):
"Salámun 'Alaikum (peace be upon yo u) for you persevered in
patience! Excellent índeed is the final home!" (13:23,24)
Patíence ís of three types. The first is patience under adversity
Patience 347

encountered when obeying the commandments of Alláh ~. The

second is patience upon resisting the temptation of succumbing to the
forbidden deeds, and the third is patience with the afflictions that AIHih
~ tests His servants with, whether by their being harassed by people
or being exposed to pain and sicknesses.
Aman is patient upon obeying Alláh's commandments when he
devotes himself entirely to worship AIIah ~ in the exact way the
Messenger of Alláh ~ instructed to fol!ow, without complaining,
neglecting or failing to do any of the worship practices. Ceasing to do
so willlead to his ruin and misery. On the other hand, once he realizes
the great reward he can have for worshipping Alláh ~ sincerely, al!
the practices of worship will become easy to perform even with
pleasure. If he does one good deed in good faith and out of pure
intention, he shall be rewarded as if he has done ten good deeds. That
will also multiply to seven hundred times as many, and to even a
multitude of times as many. Alláh ~ multiplies the reward for
whomever He wills, and His favors and graces have no limits.
Patience upon resisting the temptation of sin is refraining from falling
into doing what Alláh ~ has prohibited, whether it is related to Alláhs
rights or to people's rights. However, once the Muslim realizes the
punishment in this Jife and the Hereafter for disobeying Alláh ~ and
defying his orders and prohibitions, he will refrain from being defiant
and sinning, and will be willing to be patient and resist the temptation.
A Muslim should also realize that sorne of the punishments in this
world do not only befall the sinner himself, they may also be collective
punishments that befall the entire society, like catastrophes. Therefore,
the sinners may be few, but the consequences of their sins may
encompass the whole community. Yet, when they all die in a collective
punishment, each one of them will be resurrected and dealt with
according to his intention.
Patience upon the afflictions that Alláh ~ has decreed upon a Muslim
is to surrender to these afflictions whether they are sicknesses, grief, or
any other tribulations, without displaying discontent, anger, or any of
the practices of Jahiliyya (the pre-Islamic ignorance). Furthermore, a
Patience 348

Muslim should know that there is wisdom behind such tribulations,

which only Alláh ;g knows, A Muslim must leam that there is one way
out of these afflictions, and that is to resort to Alláh praying to him, in
total submission and humility, to a1leviate these pains and tribulations.
A1Iah decrees these afflictions upon his servants to elevate their
position in the Hereafter, if they are patient, to erase their sins and
disobedient behavior off of their records, and finally to induce them to
return to Him in submission and content. We should say: "O Alláh!
We have no objection to your decrees, We acknowledge that You do
with Your creatures whatever You will. To You belongs al! the
dom inion and for You shal! be al! praise. You are the Creator, and up
to You are a1l the matters. In Your hand is all good, and You are able
to do al! things."
Alláh ~ says:
L .?' /.~.n!("""" \'~/-rl"'-
~R .:r~J~.f1 -.
,-/ ~ - J',...- //"í0 } .
~~~('~.\""I\..<lJ'1'

"And whatever of misfortune befal!s you, it is because of what

your hands have earned. And He pardons much." (42:30)
He also says:

~:J:. ~ ~t)ji ~ ~\ ~~.;~ ~ y~~;. ..j~ ~ ~~ ,9: ~;,L::.j t t

~~ -!?
"No calamity befalls, but by the Leave [i.e. Decision and Qadar
(Divine Preordainments)] of A1Iáh, and whosoever believes in
Alláh, He guides his heart [to the true Faith with certainty, i.e.
what has befa1len him was already written for him by A1Iáh
from the Qadar (Divine Preordainments)]. And A1Iah is the
All-Knower of everything." (64: 11).
Man could be afflicted in himself, in his family, in his friends, or in
other related departments of life. Yet, if he responds to these afflictions
with patience, while waiting for Alláh's merey for his relief, these
afflictions will become a mean s of atonement for his sins, thus an
elevation of his position in the Hereafter. Many verses from the Qur' án
and Hadíth have stressed this fact. Alláh ~ says:
Patience 349

~j o5~:;4l~ÚJJA~l'Ij~! ~~~~~~'(';¡í~~~~í 06&í'¿J ~

.c-: '1'" -i~ií ~
"l::UJ'
»» ::[.l.:lÍ ·i/ ~ / .//. .-: d ' (í /-1~ /íe.
.' J'.J~Jrlt.J~,:,y...,.., /_

"But give glad tidings to As-Sábiriin (the patient). Who, when

afflieted with ealamity, say: 'Truly, to Alláh we belong and
truly, to Him we shall return.' They are those on whom are the
Salawdt (i.e. who are blessed and will be forgiven) from their
Lord, and (they are those who) reeeive His Merey, and it is they
who are the guided ones."(2: 155-157)
The Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
~..;~ ~ '.J¡I 1;. -J\~ ~I/~ tJ ~y"~~
.// ~ ~1'~ _1':: l;»)
//- o: "/'r-~
,. . } ~ t ,­
. ((l¡.;:JJ .~I ~
"Alláh drops the sins and bad deeds of the Muslim that is
afflicted with pain of sickness, or any other calamity, like the
tree dropping its leaves."
The Prophet js also addressed one ofthe women from the Companions
saying:
::..;;. ~8\ ~jj ~ ~~l1; ~ '.J¡I ~~ pi ~; ~~ ~A1n
/ /

.u;;;'Q·W ..\.¡~\
/ / J /"/
"Receive the great tiding! Alláh removes the sins of a Muslim
who is sick, like the fire that removes the impurities from the
iron and silver."
>~ ~/
_, J 0~/
.)~ \'~: >.j ..:.J-
./ -JI• \':;,
'T'y~ tJ .s' /. i.I~_F>
• .r-: / ~ ~
l;ll
'" '" '" it'

. u1~ .......6';;' e
~

"Whenever a Muslim is pricked by a thorn or anything bigger,

Alláh will forgivc sorne of his sins and elevate his status."
" / ,... -;. , / ..J/ ,.... 1) ,

~t.ill '.J.¡I '~o/ 4.J~'\.> --;. o • o \ \':<'~ ¡so s ,,> '1 > IJ..,."ll
\ Y- '+'~ J-' J ~..r-' ~
> •

'-:!'"'
/0/ \':

/ _/ J'- /' /Y- J "T' "

.. , "'..... <JI

.((~;~'~ ~A) ~.J~

"A headache that a believer may get, a thorn that may prick
him, or any other thing that may harm him, will be a cause for
Patience 350

Alláh to raise his status on the Day of Judgement and remove

sorne of his sins."
,'/ < ~ ~:-'_.
~ ,- ._~ ~ i..? /'
1'<1 \~\~ : J(j ~
'I';J J~ /.&1 ~1J), :~ ~
~ .~\I J(j
0'0" , ~;"111''.:_'"''
.((-~-4..r..-~ ~~"y
, '
The Messenger of Alláh ~ said: "Alláh said, if I afflict one of
my servants with the loss of his two dearest friends (his eyes)
and he is patient with that, I shall compensate him with
Paradise."

.- ''&1 ~Ii'> r.:; ~h.- ~ ¡j·.'/'\i.&1

..r.. ~ , r..r--: ~JJ ~2:~ ·I~"\\ ~\))
.....f::;
,-, . , ­ .r"- , , Y"'- ~ .r ~

. ((~131~ -:.- ~,2~ ~

-s .- cr" T'-'. ~
"Alláh would prepare a certain status for aman and yet that man
would not be able to reach that status with only his deeds. So
Alláh would afflict him with what he hates in order to enable
him to achieve that status."
~\'.&I 'J;j 'lb ~11;í:~ ~ ;'1)1 ~~'J ~~ ~ ~ ~»)
-' ~ o ....
. ((' 131~. I ;,~.
r-~" J~~
"If a Muslim dies and leaves three children behind that had not
reached puberty, Alláh will let him enter Paradise for being
merciful to his children."
sJ~ (()]\
,
~ ~~ ~ \)l5 'lb ~)\ ~ ~~ rJZ 0;1 ~ /
h ~))
~
.-\' \
,J'J "., ... / .,,;
((.0.'\-)) 'JI~: ~.".\'
'~J''''''''~J'O~
"Any woman that loses three children, will have them as a shield
for her from the Hellfire." A woman said: "How about two."
And He answered: "And two."
All the aforementioned Hadith give the great tidings of great rewards
to the believer who is patient on handling the afflictions that befall him
as being a test from Alláh ~, looking forward to the rewards he will
have. Moreover, while being afflicted, a believer must realize that he is
only afflicted for what he has done or erred in, as stated in the
following Verse:
Patience 351

.c Á''--
"'<:"'0/
i~9'--/ .-Gt:~/-ru¡~ ,a! ' • ~~(""t/ ~
.:.>"'~..J?,-:/.,
:.---
;.. / '. / ~\ . ' '.J r

"And whatever of misfortune béfalls you, it is because of what

your hands have earned. And He pardons much." (42:30)
O Alláh! Help us be patient when afflicted, be grateful when favored,
and seek Your forgiveness when sinfu1. Forgive our sins and
wrongdoings and have merey on uso You are indeed the Merciful and
the Oft-Forgiving. With this 1 conclude my speech and ask Alláh to
forgive my errors.
 The Advantages ofTaqwa 352

The Advantages of Taqwa

All praise is to Alláh. Be cherishes those who obey Hirn and fear Him,

and degrades and humiliates those who defy Bis orders, and disobey

Him. 1 praise Him and thank Him for both Bis favors and afflictions. 1

. bear witness that there is no god worthy of worship save Alláh

~
Alone, having no partners. 1 also bear witness that Muhammad ~ is

Bis slave and Messenger. Verily, he is the best of the Prophets and the

most noble of those who fear Alláh ~. May the peace and blessings of

Alláh ~ be upon him and upon every one who fears Alláh righteously.

O servants of Alláh ~! Fear Alláh and have Taqwa, as you were

created for it. Al! the favors and bounties that Alláh ~ has granted you

and done for you are to help you achieve Taqwa. Taqwa is to train

yourselves to stay away from everything that may lead you to Alláh's

wrath, and hence His tonnent. This is to be achieved by abiding by

Alláh's commandments, and staying away from His prohibitions. You

must prepare yourselves to only do what Alláh ~ likes you to do. It

was reported that Ali Bin Abi Talib 4> said: "Taqwa is to fear Alláh,

the Magnificent, to abide by the revelation, to be content with the little

(ofprovision), and to be ready for the departure (death)."

O Muslims! We really need Taqwa more than we need water and air,

f
even if all what it brings for us is the love of Alláh ~, it wil1 certainly

be sufficient. He who has gained the love of the Alláh has indeed

gained the love of people. Alláh ~ says:

ÁI-! .... '·.:(\ ~"i 1'::: //

"'1: ;)J~J' r~";-'~;;.
"\ ~ ,,\~\L_~"
',a' '\ ~ "\'..~~
y.,..... /' ,'1'\ ú~
-q\ },..
l'

"Verily, those who believe [in the Oneness of Alláh and in Bis

Messenger (Muhammad ;i)] and work deeds of righteousness,

the Most Gracious (Alláh) will bestow love for them (in the

hearts of the believers)."(19:96)

Also He says:
The Advantages 01 Taqwa 353

"Verily, Alláh loves Al-Muttaqún (those who have Taqwa)."

(9:7)
There is a Hadith that states when Alláh ~ loves someone, He will set
acceptance for him on earth. So fear Alláh, O people, and be aware
that Alláh and His Messenger have recommended that all the people
fear Him. A Muslim must cling to His Lord's advice and
recommendation. Alláh ~ says:
~ :: ' 1 -"- '-':-'\ '\"¡(SI::'
~ 4JJ\ ~ 1.:. ' ú\
/,"" '" /:r"';'\·'~"'i"··:f'\I':"-:/~-::í/t
':-·~I.· ~
-bJ ~ ~. ,. ~.J." i.Jj,J _ ~ ..ÚJ.J
~

"And verily, We have recommended to the people of the

Scripture before you, and to you (O Muslims) that you (all) fear
Alláh." (4:131)
The Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
,.. o"' } """,., -;
. 11.::....s ~ 41 ~\»

"Fear AIHih wherever you are."

By fearing Alláh ~, man is protected from troubles, impediments are
removed from his way, and doubts are no longer lingering in his heart.
By Taqwa, Alláh turns man's grief and hardship into happiness and
comfort, and will help him find a way out ofhis misery and destitution.
Alláh will further provide for him from sources that he could never
have considered or imagined. In this regard Alláh ~ says:
,d:) ~"'""",,.,., >:-t." I/"~" Jo.f (-:;;"::'\ e> /"2<.
"t~ J ~~ .u~.J O\>.,r, 4J ~ 4.\l .:p.J".J '1'

"And whosoever fears Alláh and keeps his duty to Him, He will
make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty). And He
will provide him from (sources) he never could imagine."
(65:2,3)
.<l('.J.~. -T~ Jo~ l/-;;
"t~ ,"" ~f"'~-
41í ~0"J
:'''./''2<.
'1'

"And whosoever fears Alláh and keeps his duty to Hirn, He will
make his matter easy for him." (65:4)
By fearing Alláh ~, man matures intellectually and becomes more
brilliant. Re gains the ability to distinguish between truth and
The Advantages 01 Taqwa 354

falsehood, both the beneficial matters and the harmful ones. By fearing
Alláh ~, man's sins and wrongdoings are expiated and hence
forgiven. Alláh ~ says:
k'-l~·/. :L·';:, .~(/~,- Ú::'t '~1 1/''; ir i ~~~ .\ r~ /\: ---; ~í (~b'; :i.­
Jl'-:- '" r----- ~J ~ ["""""" ~ ~ '"'.. IJ-A ~,- 'r:. - r
~~~i •. ~n
r"'~.)

"O you who believe! If you obey and fear Alláh, He will grant
you Furqán [(a criterion to judge between right and wrong), or
(Makhraj, i.e. a way for you to get out from every difficulty)],
and will expiate for you your sins, and forgive you." (8:29)
~~ ,0 ~ ~ ~~ ,4~ IhI:J ~ ~ ~\: ~~í c;:~ ~
",'1é1 «, :.0 -; ~.~ (~ r~
"Z r~.J L~,",.r=--'.!).Y
"O you who believe! Fear Alláh, and believe in His Messenger
(Muhammad ~), He will give you a double portion of His
Merey, and He will give you a light by which you shall walk
(straight). And He will forgive you." (57:28)
By fearing Alláh ~, man shall be seeure and protected, while other
people are frightened. He will be happy while al! others are sad, and
optimistic while others are pessimistie.
6""",; ,....,~.. / J . / ... /.> ""... -i> Jj../ .... ,,:.. '-/ -:' ~ -"''''''i:i.­
\j.AI .. ~~\ O ~~~ ~ ':/J ~ ~~ ':J ;Jl\ "~)I -....:;...l ':J r
"'~/ . .tí~1 ·'-I/~~\~-J'·::.r\· ':''1:í'\~''.i / ~-~'-'\~I'/ ,­
"Z.9~.:I --?JI..:'..v\ 9-. ~IS~ ~ O~~'Y~j
"No doubt! Verily, the Auliyá' of Alláh [i.e. those who believe
in the Oneness of Alláh and fear Alláh much (abstain from all
kinds of sins and evil deeds which he has forbidden), and love
Alláh much (perform all kinds of good deeds which He has
ordained)], no fear shall come upon them nor shall they grieve.
Those who believed (in the Oneness of Alláh ~ Islámic
Monotheism), and used to fear Alláh much (by abstaining from
evil deeds and sins and by doing righteous deeds). For them are
glad tidings, in the life of the present world (i.e. through a
righteous dream seen by the person himself or shown to others),
and in the Hereafter." (10:62-64)
The Advantages ofTaqwa 355

By fearing Alláh ~, man becomes nearer to his Lord, thereupon he

gains happiness and felicity in this life and the Hereafter:
¿~ ~ V~';~ ~. ~í ~~ 1;t-: :t ~ ~ ¡}..;\: 6Jí 4J.:r; t
..-;- ~ .....:·{;..",.=u-:;'W.al'
"',;{-.....;...; ~ r­
"O you who believe! Do your duty to Alláh and fear Him. And
seek the means of approach to Him, and strive hard in His Cause
(as much as you can), so that you may be successful." (5:35)
By fearing Alláh ~, man shall have the peace of mind that his
children, especially the weak ones, will be looked after and taken care
of. Alláh ~ says:
~í l;i~ -:U
. 7. 6" :¡~ I~
y ~ ~, ~.~ ~.;,le"~
_'-] ~ ir.:'..J'..::.:.J.,
j1 -: jí ~' • r~ .J

,;{1~..L:..1·-::
'" _,
i"
~'Y.Y'"'::'.J
'n-­
"And let those (executors and guardians) have the same fear in
their minds as they would have for their own, if they had left
weak offspring behind. So let them fear Alláh and speak right
words." (4:9)
O servants of Alláh! You are definitely departing this life. The
travelers take provision to sustain their journey. Your journey to the
Hereafter needs only one kind of provision. That is the fear from
Alláh, Taqwa. It is the provision that guarantees for you eternal
happiness, tranquillity, and a joyful life in the Garden of Paradise that
is as wide as the heavens and earth together. These Gardens were made
for those who fear Alláh ~. For this and for other reasons, man knows
that he cannot succeed without fearing Alláh ~. Taqwa is his way out
of the troubles in this life and the Hereafter, particularly when he is to
pass over the Fire at one of the stages of the Day of Judgement. Only
those who fear Alláh ~ can pass that stage intact. With Taqwa Alláh
~ will be with you,helping you, and Alláh only honors you if you
have Taqwa. Alláh ~ says:

~~~;Uí~>;~~~t
"Verily, the most honourable ofyou with Alláh is that (believer)
The Advantages 01 Taqwa 356

who has At-Taqwá [i.e., he is one ofthe Muttaqún (the pious.j]."

(49:13)
The Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
.((-.s~4'11~fi~~~ :10
,.., '" _ R ,...

"There is no preference of an Arab over a non-Arab except by

virtues of Taqwa,"
Sorne of the early people said: "If aman gets out ofthe humiliation of
wrongdoing to the honor of Taqwa, Alláh ~ will make him rich
without wealth, strong and dignified without a tribe, and entertained
without company"
Fear Alláh, O servants of Alláh! Fearing Him is a cure from ail your
illnesses. Be certain to always remain in a state of Taqwa, for no one
will be happy except those who keep themselves in that state. Al!
others shall be sad and miserable. Fear Alláh ~! Taqwa, is what you
equip yourselves with to encounter your enemy, and thereby defeat
him.
Fear Alláh ~ with yourselves, your families and wealth. Fear Alláh
upon dealing with children, your Arham (relatives), your dependants
and upon fulfilling trusts that Alláh has entrusted you with. In other
words you should keep Taqwa before your eyes in every aspect ofyour
life.
May Alláh ~ bless us all with His Book and benefit us with its Ayat
and wisdom. By this, I conclude my speech and ask Alláh ~ to forgive
all of our wrongdoings. Seek His forgiveness, as He is the All­
Forgiving, Most Merciful.
The Virtue 01Remembrance 01Alldh 357

The Virtue of Remembrance of Allah ~

A\l praise is for Alláh ~ Whose Name is mentioned by every tongue,
and remembered by every creature. He is the One praised for every
bounty and favor. He created man to worship Him. He showed His
signs and proofs so that man may know Him. He has facilitated for
man the way to reach Him, so that he may follow it. He is indeed the
Bestower of great bounties and goodness. I bear witness that there is
no god worthy of worship except Alláh Alone having no partners, and
I bear witness that Muhammad ~ is His slave and Messenger. May the
peace and blessings of Alláh be upon him, his family, his Companions
and anyone that follows in their footsteps until the Day of
Recompense.
O servants of Alláh ~! Remember Alláh with much remembrance, and
glorify Him moming and evening. Be among those people of
understanding who remember Alláh ~ at every state of being and in
every position: standing, sitting or Iying down on their sides. Be
among those who believe and whose hearts find satisfaction in the
remembrance of Alláh '~. In the remembrance of Alláh hearts find
satisfaction and agonies are driven away. With the remembrance of
Alláh, victory is achieved and Alláh strengthens the hearts of the
believers upon encountering fear. For this, Alláh ~ commanded the
believers to remembcr His Name when they confront their enemy at
war. He ~ said:
'~11
~ .~
~ ~ i~...--
:'L~r:J i~
~...: , ~/ J _~oí \~\,,~
r~/(. ,.-; ~í I/~.b::
~:.- ~.
:l>.
'Y

~¿;#
"O you who believe! When you meet (an enemy) force, take a
firm stand against them and remember the Name of Alláh much
(both with tongue and mind), so that you may be successful."
(8:45)
Remembering Alláh ~ fills the heart with pleasure and happiness and
makes the face look brighter. Alláh ~ remembers those who
remember Him. He says:
The Virtue ofRemembrance ofAl/ah 358

~9J~1JJ.\"~t¡tJ~~~~
"Therefore remember Me (by praying, glorifying). 1 will
remember you, and be grateful to Me (for My countless Favars
on you) and never he ungrateful to Me." (2: 152)
I~;'~ dJ '-f '-?4 01 ~ ~ Gí : J~J '~~ '.j¡\ JLi: ~ JLi
;.JJ. .......... // o ~ jo // o '........­

~ ..:;:s~ ~ ~ ";JS~ 0p ,~~ '..:;:s~ ~ ~ .jJS~ 0p '.jj~

« '.' .-: ~
.~~~
"The Messenger of Alláh ~ said that Alláh ~ said: '1 am as My
servant thinks of Me. 1 am with him when he makes mention of
Me. If he makes mention of Me to himself, 1 make mention of
him to Myself; and if he makes mention of Me in a gathering, 1
make mention of him in a better gathering than his. '"
The Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
"The Al-Mufarridún have preceded." They said: "Who are Al­
Mufarridún, O Messneger of Alláh?" He said: "(They are) those
men and women who make mention of Alláh a 101."
He ~ also said:
"The example of the one who remembers Alláh and the one who does
not, is like that ofthe living and the dead."
The Messenger of Alláh ~ was once asked: "Who will he the happiest
to qualify for your Shifa 'ah (intercession), O Messenger of Alláh?" He
said: "It is he who says La iláha illalldh (there is no god worthy of
worship hut Alláh) with pure faith (meaning it) from his heart." The
Messenger of Alláh ~ also said:
. «(Q\ /~;~.j¡1 -JI/JI
. u t ~
'i .... 9$'.>-Í ~15:";;))
// J..... u
"He whose last words (before he died) were La iláha illalláh
will enter Paradise."
Man should remember to say the testimony La ildha illalláh when he
constantIy keeps mention of it throughout his life. It will then become
a habit to keep saying the testimony. In this regard the Messenger of
The Virtue oiRemembrance ofAlláh 359

Alláh ~ said:
. ((~/ '_é;'~ J~. ¿j¡ r..)"':"'
··.Jr-::-:
/I·;~.&\ 'ÍI/.J\"¡
~~
¡Ji /o~~ ~.Jr
~ \ ~.<í»
"Keep saying the testimony that there is no god worthy of
worship except Alláh, La iláha illalláh before you are prevented
from saying it (i.e., before the time of death)."
The Messenger of Alláh ~ also said:

"He who says: 'there is no god worthy of worship except Alláh

Alone having no partner with Him, His is the Sovereignty, all
praise is for Him, and He has power over everything' ten times
will be like the one who frees four slaves from the progeny of
Ismail."
He ~ also said:
j;;'j ,J.:,;j\~.Jj .i1\~·I\~.J /.J~; '1 ~:b.:/&\ /
'Ír.Jl"¡ J~~))
/ /

Jo ..... Jo ,..." Jo ,... ,... // ,...."" '" Jo

.:GLo~.J.:::.,:.;s/
/
'-....J1j
./.J,. ¿ r • / J~~.J ..::J\S o~/;jjLo
,.r
Jo,...
,
•/ ."..L9 .... J5/
/ ¡Yo<./; J',. /
.. o......"
''-?'
.. .. ,....,...
,p
,... ,... .. ,... ,...- p .. "",.... ,.... ,....
.!lb /~y. ~~\ ~ \j~~.J '::";\Sj ,~ ;jj~ ~~ ~j
lO' ,.... ,... '" ~ ""-",... ,...

~ ]si ~ J;.i '1l ~~ ~~ ~ J-a.;~. J;.i '?~ ¡.Jj •~ / ~l -?­

.((~~
"He who says a hundred times in one day: 'there is no god
worthy of worship except Alláh alone having no partner with
Him, His is the Sovereignty, all praise is for Him, and He has
power over everything' will be rewarded as if he freed ten
slaves, a hundred good deeds will be registered for him, a
hundred wrongdoings will be removed from his record, and it
will be a protection for him from the devil throughout the day
until the evening. None would have done better than he has
except one who said the same and more."
The Virtue ofRemembrance ofAlláh 360

The Messeger of Alláh ~ also said:

. ' ' ~I JI~".~
:~ -:>G::....;. - -:>\~I . -:>r-í "~ -:>LlJI
,', '-!'-' , j;. -:>(-~
, Q';' -:>(.~)) r > , ,

. L~:'1\
~ ,
..tI 0~ . "o~' ..J,..tI 0~
.
, '
"Two words are light for the tongue but heavy in the scale and
are dear to the Ar-Rahman (The Gracious]: Glorified and
Praised be Alláh, Glorified be Alláh, The All-Mighty."

. J19 ¿;.))
J ,....,.... ,..-,..- ,....
'¿j~ '..j .;.,p
,...."'" a ,,"""

::"";\5 -:>[J / ' . ;'

.~ ~\.. ~y.
~ ,... ~
..)
.. o~:J
/ //
..tI
.:-"'"
-:>~
g /'" /g

. (( r:
.." l\ J..,'
,.Ju;
1'.

"He who says 'Glorified and Praised be Alláh" a hundred times

in one day, he will be forgiven all of his sins even if they were
as much as the foam of the sea."
The Prophet ~ also said:
Jl ~ ;S1'..t\:J -'..tI :1r~l ~:J _,..t ~I:J _,..tI 0~ J)10\)))
.((~\~c::.:U,~
"Verily, that 1 say: 'Glorified be Alláh, all praise is for Alláh,
there is no god worthy of worship except Alláh and Alláh is the
Greatest' is dearer to me than all what the sun rises upon."
He j§ said:
:-0L:.J;..
",~v..-
'. "1~L::.. 'SLj ((~2:,;..::..Ji
, "~I< ~ 0r ¡.s' ~ ~
~y.U.,
~ '1))
~,.... ,....

'J ~
. ~ i'i\..'..t\ ~
,-:
''''')) :J~
,
~2:,;..:...Jr ~~ ~.::..;:5
. ,- ­
. ((~.:.J1
,
"Are any of you capable of gaining a thousand good deeds
everyday?" Upon this one of the attendants asked: "How can
one of us gain a thousand good deeds?" He j§ said: "If one
glorifies Alláh a hundred times (saying Subhan Alláh), then one
thousand good deeds will be registered for him."
O servants of Alláh! Fear Alláh and increase your good deeds, you will
thereby increase your gains and benefits in the Hereafter. Remember
The Virtue ofRemembrance ofAlláh 361

Alláh much and constantly in your hearts and make mention of Him
with your tongues. Let the remembrance of Alláh ~ settle in your
hearts and while standing, sitting, or lying down on your side. Keep
remembering Alláh's Might, Glory, Majesty, Perfect Names,
Attributes, and Actions. Everything around you reminds you of His
Might, Greatness, and Perfect Attributes. Moreover, everything stands
in proof of His Oneness, Greatness and Power. The impact of His
Merey and Wisdom is clear and manifest in every aspect of the
universe. Mention Alláh with your tongues by uttering the Shahadah,
(testimony) Tasbeeh, Tahmeed, and Takbeer (saying Subhan Alldh,
Alhamdulillah, Alláhu Akbar). Furtherrnore, every good thing you say
for the sake of Alláh ~ is a part of the remembrance of Alláh. In your
actions, you remember Alláh ~ by obeying his commandments, and
abstaining from committing the prohibitions. Every action you do or
do not do in compliance to Alláh's commandments shall be deemed as
part of the remembrance of Alláh, Keep remembering Alláh ~ and do
not be among those whose hearts were made heedless of the
remembrance of Alláh and who follow their own desires. They are the
ones whose affairs and purpose in life have been lost. Make mention of
Alláh ~ frequently before the time of death is due, because then you
will never be able to do so. Remember Alláh before you become
incapable of it for sorne other reason, or as punishment for being
heedless. Do not let any of life's matters and businesses take you away
or avert your attention from the remembrance of Alláh. Alláh ~ said:
~.,' {\'~ :1'" ;'.' ~ ,-:- ¡,--: (\ ! ,'":i~' "'n~l' t!~.r~'
~J 1,l'Y~.J ~ ~ ~ ~~ ~JJ\ j _ \~.¿ ¡)J-J~
'}"" >
JWI r
'-':lo.

~1:'
"Wealth and children are the adornment of the life of this world.
But the good righteous deeds that last, are better with your Lord
for rewards and better in respect of hope." (18:46)
O servants of Alláh! Remembrance of Alláh ~ is a cause for profit and
for real benefit and success. Heedlessness, on the other hand, is a mere
loss. Abu Hurairah ~ narrated that the Prophet ~ said:
~ ~ ,. t ""
,J ,-,
;'0" ,. '"
~ l5 '11' ~ ~ \; 1\ '-} '. \' w'.&1 \}<j:; .~ \ ~ -.". , \~ ~)
u ; ~ o-: .r--:. J.r - , .:>iY ~
The Virtue 01 Remembrance 01Alláh 362

. ((~ ~ ~G 01J ~j;. ~G 0~ ¡:; ~ ~:í é

"Whenever sorne people sit in a gathering in whieh they faiI to
remember Alláh and say the prayer upon the Prophet ~, they
ineur a loss upon themselves. It is then up to Alláh to punish
them or forgive them."
O Alláh! Help us to make mention of You, thank You, and worship
You in the best manner.
O Alláh! Make us, men and women, amongst those who make mention
ofYou mueh and all the time.
O Alláh! Make us be amongst those who spend their time in
mentioning Your Names.
O Alláh! Save us from being heedless of your remembranee and from
being preoeeupied with what does not draw us closer to You.
O Alláh! Let not our hearts deviate after You have guided us and grant
us merey from You. VeriIy, You are the Bestower.
O Alláh! Forgive us and have merey on uso Verily, You are the Oft­
Forgiving the AH Mereiful.
Chapter 6

Battles and

Virtues of tbe

Propbet ~

The Qualities 01the Messenger 01Alldh :Jff 365

The Qualities of the Messenger of AIHih ~

All praise is for Alláh who clothed the righteous Muslims in the robes
of Taqwa, and decorated them with the adornment of the faith. Alláh
said:
"-~\; ,;{¡; í:-l~~, ~·1.>'" .. -í: n ~\ c.. :-'ií 'i;:)l:''''\ ~o' ~-:í~
o'o' - s> ~ r"'- ~ 1>"'.) ~ ~ ,. ~-'"""' u-.ul ¡J"..J.AJ T
J.'í~ ~í 1·~. í~? 0'\
~;:.2...",.~.W ("".'-:'s:Jí r~~1-;,o' ':"_:2......;.)1,;
~ ~ y '"""J~ J n~~J
0 /

/ <..J-';"' J o / ....

/ ~
~~
"Indeed, Alláh conferred a great favor on the believers when He
sent among them a Messenger (Muhammad ~) from among
themselves, reciting unto them His Verses (the Qur'án), and
purifying them (from sins by their following him), and
instructing them (in) the Book (the Qur'án) and AI-Hikmah [the
wisdom and the Sunnah of the Prophet ~ (i.e., his legal ways,
statements and acts of worship)], while before that they had
been in manifest error." (3:164)
My brothers in Islam, the Book of Alláh ~ is the most authentic and
reliable book ever. It recorded the history of the nations that carne
before it and told us of the people in the era preceding the message of
Muhammad ~ who were living in the darkness of ignorance and
following terrible traditions. They buried many of their daughters
alive, ate the flesh of dead animals (that didn't die by slaughtering),
worshipped idols, and severed the ties of kinship. They often fought
each other in tribal disputes and ofien usurped each other's property.
This led them to shed each other's blood unjustly. Prior to the message
of Muhammad, when there was no Messenger receiving revelation
frOID Alláh ~, people lived alife of darkness upon darkness. However,
there were sorne pious men who were waiting for this situation of total
misery to change to a better situation. Therefore, Alláh ~ responded to
their plight and sent to them His Messenger, a Messenger of peace, the
best of men among all people, Muhammad :l. This Messenger used
every effort to bring guidance to his people and to save them from
The Qualities ofthe Messenger ofAlláh ji 366

going astray. He led them with knowledge from darkness to light and
taught them to work and eam their money rather than steal other
people's property through their usual incursions. He exhorted them to
uphold virtuous morals, so as to live a noble and worthwhile life. Alláh
~ says:
.l.:tJJ~;" lJ;'l..J'":'~
"'\"';' .;
~t1.;.. i'Y ~ i" ()~
. \' ¡ ~ ~í'" <'~Gí
... ..J.... r-+:' -¡.... :l..
.- • ..J T

"And (the Prophet is) instructing them (in) the Book (the
Qur'án) and Al-Hikmah [the wisdom and the Sunnah of the
Prophet ~ (i.e., his legal ways, statements and acts ofworship)],
while befare that they had been in manifest error." (3:164)
Alláh ~ also said:

~r ~
/. .... ~ .' ~ d
,. ~
~~
.... \;k....:r-
~-:t ~. --3"" .:'L{'-.Dí:l..
~.J r - . T
.l No ~ ».~ .............. ="'ít _"'~-í;;
"'\~.J--JJ"..J~"""'" :-r----=­
"Verily, there has come unto you a Messenger (Muhammad ~)
from amongst yourselves (i.e., whom you know well). It grieves
him that you should receive any injury or difficulty. He
(Muhammad ji¡¡) is ánxious over you (to be rightly guided, to
repent to Alláh, and beg Him to pardon and forgive your sins in
order that you may enter Paradise and be saved from the
punishment of the HeJl-fire); for the believers (he ji¡¡ is) full of
pity, kind, and merciful." (9: 128)

--.:.r... ~-:;í
.ul eS ~
•.- O -'"
~
-e» '-::4--'
,
"'~ -:;'\ .-' • .!~:í"""'" .-;; ::l...
-=-,..J ..J'y 411 ~ r--"\.>.' ~ T
'1 1"\
..)y-.J ~~
A.

~ ,:.<1~lí ~
-;'. -:-,.~
"7
~,. . . .J>'1:'í
~~..J ,
y;, "'./.( ~ . . . ~í
. ,A:.-J~~ ~
.i. ¡,;:"
"'\~.,
'1.1,'" :t\.]. ;-;' L.u~\..
.; ~c,;j~~'7T,;..J .......s­

"O people ofthe Scripture (Jews and Christians)! Now has come
to you Our Messenger (Muhammad ~) explaining to you much
of that which you used to hide from the Scripture and pass over
(i.e., leaving out without explaining) mucho Indeed, there has
come to you from Alláh a light (Prophet Muhammad ~) and a
plain Book (this Qur'án). Wherewith Alláh guides all those who
seek His Good Pleasure to ways of peace, and He brings them
The Qualities Di the Messenger DiAlláh ?Jf 367

out of darkness by His Will unto light and guides them to the
Straight Way (Islámic Monotheism)." (5:15,16)
CoA
v....
G'{,~G l,1;¿J ~~'í
.... 'J
~~_·-tí~
0;.... ~..J ; <:..r'r-""' ::-.- d~~!<'r~~,.
.r:. r- . . \-:~í §~ ~
..i.»-"
.¡¡
.......~ ....... ,-:"'''» ........ }Jo .... 't-; ,.. . . Jd .... /.... ....

"'(J..~ :~'-? ~ 04.UG~.}jJ8r-"4-...w).~~J~

"Q people ofthe Scripture (Jews and Christians)! Now has come
to you Our Messenger (Muhammad ;ii) making (things) clear
unto you, after a break in (the series of) Messengers, lest you
say: 'There carne unto us no bringer of glad tidings and no
wamer.' But now has come unto you a bringer of glad tidings
and a wamer. And Alláh is Able to do all things." (5: 19)
Many verses in the Qur'án have focused on the Messenger's elevated
status. Therefore, we, as Muslims should appreciate this status rightly
by doing the following:
1. Leaming about his sublime qualities and great deeds and actions.
2. Obeying his teachings, following his guidance, and his
commandments-particularly the- ones regarding abiding by the
qualities of good conducto
We must adhere to his teachings and obey his commandments if we
claim to be believers and to love him. By doing so, we prove our love
to him, since there is no value for a love that isn't reflected in action.
Thereby the goal for which he was sent is achieved.
I, therefore, find myself obligated to mention sorne ofthe Messenger's
manners and qualities. He certainly is the perfect example for mankind
in terms ofbehavior and good conduct. Al-Tirmidhi narrated in his book
Al-Shma'il Al-Muhammadiyya (The Muhammadan characteristics) on
the authority of Al-Hassan bin 'Ali ~ .1\ ~-! that Al-Hussein ~ had
said that his my father was asked about the way Muhammad ~
behaved with his Companions and those who sat with him, so he said,
"The Messenger of Alláh ~ had always been cheerful, easy-going and
docile. He was never rough, harsh, or blatant and never used obscene
language. He never was a faultfinder and never argued (for the sake of
arguing). He never paid attention to anything that was not his concem.
The Qualities 01 the Messenger 01Al/ah ¿f¡f 368

He never disappointed anyone that sought his help and never dismissed
anyone that wanted anything from him empty-handed. He abstained
from three things: arguing, being extravagant, and anything that did
not concern him. He further refrained from doing three things towards
people: he never belittled anyone, never criticized anyone and never
searched for anyone's faults. He never spoke except when he
anticipated a benefit from speaking. When he spoke, his Companions
listened attentively. They talked only when he finished talking, and
they would not talk over him or argue in his presence. They listened to
anyone speaking in his presence until they finished. Their talk with
him is only one, and that is the talk of the first one starting (the
discussion). He would laugh about what they laughed about, and
wonder about what they wondered about. He was always patient with
the strangers that approached with roughness. Therefore, his
Companions would bring the strangers to his presence so as to benefit
from his answers to their questions. He instructed his Companions that
if they ever saw a needy person, they were to bring him to the Prophet
~. He would never accept compliments except from someone who
was returning a favor done by the Prophet ~ [(Le., by saying Jazak
Alláhu khayran (may Alláh reward you with good)]. He would never
be interrupted while talking. His Companions would wait until he had
finished or rose to leave."
Furthermore, the Messenger of Alláh :Ji was the most knowledgeable,
the most pious, the most abstinent (from worldly luxuries), the most
just, the most tolerant and the chestiest of all people. He never touched
the hand of a woman that did not belong to his household (Le., one of
his wives or slave-girls), or who was not one of his Mahram (those
who are relatives that cannot be married) women. He never addressed
any one with abad thing. Whenever he wanted to admonish or remind
the Muslims regarding something wrong they did or one of them did,
he would not mention anyone in specific. Instead, his address would be
delivered in general terms. He had approached every one of his
Companions so dearly, that every one ofthem would think the Prophet
:Ji liked him the most.
He was the most modest of all people and never stared at anyone. He
The Qualities ofthe Messenger ofAlláh ji 369

answered the invitation of the free man as well as the slave, and
accepted any gift offered to him, even if it were a sip of milk or a thigh
of a rabbit. Moreover, he would pray for the one who gave the gift and
would eat from it. However, he never accepted charity and would not
eat from charity. He always visited the sick, particularly the sick
among the poor people whom nobody would look after or pay attention
too He was always polite with his Companions and always missed the
ones that had been absent for a while. How many a time would he tell
a person: "You may have found something with us you do not like"(so
forgive us)? He always loved good fragrances and always despised
offensive odors. He honored the well doers among the people and
always treated the people of honor with kindness. He always looked
after his relatives and Arhaam (kinfolk), without giving them any
preferential treatment over anyone who might have been considered
better. He never shunned anyone regardless of what he had done. He
had slaves and maids, yet never gave himself any preferences over
them in terms of food or clothes. He never passed time for other than
the sake of Alláh ~, or for sorne important personal matters. He was
the last person to get angry and the quickest to be pleasant and
forgiving. He was the kindest, gentlest and most beneficial of the
people for the people. This should be sufficient for anyone who wants
to take the Messenger of Alláh ;i as his example and role model. His
morals are more than what one can mention in one speech. Only AIHih
~ can list this honorable Prophet's virtuous characteristics. Alláh ~
says:

"And verily, you (O Muhammad ~) are on an exalted (standard

oí) character." (68:4)
Finally I exhort you, my brothers in Islam to take the Messenger of
Alláh ~ as our example and as a role model in all aspects of life. With
this I conclude my speech and ask Alláh ~ to forgive all of our sins.
So seek his forgiveness. for verily Alláh is the Oft-Forgiving, the Most
Merciful.
The Virtues 01 the Companions 01the Prophet Ji 370

The Virtues of the Companions of the Prophet ~

All praise is for Alláh, and may peace and blessings be upon the
Messenger of Alláh, the Finality ofthe Prophets, and upon his family,
Companions and anyone that follows in their footsteps until the Day of
Judgement. My brothers in Islam, Alláh &t says:
.-/.--; .,0 ~
~..J ~
~
l' ...
-:'Y":'-'
• » 1" -
/..;.~
~/ 1) ~,
-:' Jr \:a\W~.
') J
/~
-(.. ií:
~ ~
-:,.~~;::)Íí""'-:.) '--:.Ií<).,
1,)-".> ........:.-;.~ .> r

~~~JI~~~;~í
"And the foremost to embrace Islám of the Muhájirün (those
who migrated from Makkah to Al-Madinah) and the Ansdr (the
citizens of AI-Madinah who helped and gave aid to the
Muhdjirúnv and also those who followed them exactly (in Faith).
Alláh is well-pleased with them as they are well-pleased with
Him." (9:100)

"Muhammad ~ is the Messenger of Alláh, And those who are

with him are severe against disbelievers, and merciful among
themselves. You see them bowing and falling down prostrate (in
prayer), seeking Bounty from Alláh and (His) Good Pleasure.
The mark of them (i.e., of their Faith) is on their faces
(foreheads) from the traces of prostration (during prayers). This
is their description in the Taurát (Torah). But their description in
the Injeel (Gospel) is like a (sown) seed which sends forth its
shoot, then makes it strong, and becomes thick and it stands
straight on its stem, delighting the sowers, that He may enrage
the disbelievers with them. Alláh has promised those among
The Virtues 01 the Companions 01 the Prophet J¡ff 371

them who believe (i.e., all those who follow Islámic

Monotheism, the religion of Prophet Muhammad :i till the Day
of Resurrection) and do righteous good deeds, forgiveness and a
mighty reward (i.e., Paradise)." (48:29)
These verses and many others have one common theme. That is the
excellence of the Companions of the Messenger of Alláh jJ$. The
Companions of the Prophet :i were the first people that carried the
Message of Islam to the world. They were the defenders of Islam.
They were the ones that fought and struggled for the sake of raising the
Word of Alláh ~ and propagating His Message. Through them, Alláh
~ delivered His religion and made it victorious. Therefore, they were
the group who if Alláh ~ had not made them victorious at that time of
history, He would never have been worshipped again. At that time the
Prophet :i looked at them and rose his hands praying to Alláh ~
saying:
, // J / ~ / ~ --" ::;

. I(~ ~ ,~~\ ~~ ~ °1 ¡.+lJI»

"O Alláhl Should this group be defeated (on this day) you will
no longer be worshipped."

Many verses and Ahadith focus on the excellence of the Companions.

They were the ones that believed in Alláh ~ and His Messenger ~.
They supported the Messenger jJ$, protected him and fol1owed the
guidance he brought. They certainly were the best people and the most
honored by Alláh ~ after the Prophets. The Book of Alláh ~ and the
Sunnah of the Messenger ~ have emphasized their piety, honesty,
credibility and devotion to Qur'án and Sunnah. For this the Messenger
of Alláh :i pointed out their excellence and wamed us against denying
them their proper status which they deserve, or even forgetting this
status with the passage of time. He further recommended that they be
considered and regarded as long as life goes on just like his own
family. He said:

~~t ~ ~ ~ ,~~ ~ ~ rS~ ~t :,J

The Virtues 01 the Companions 01 the Prophet ¿Jf 372

"Fear Alláh in anything regarding my Companions. If any one

of you offered as much as (mount) Uhud in charity, he would
not achieve the reward equal to a (Mudd) half bushel weight of
theirs, nor half of that."
Furthermore, the Messenger of Alláh ti advised that they be loved,
revered and perceived respectful1y. One day, the Messenger of Alláh ti
heard Khalid bin AI-Waleed ~ bickering with Abdur-Rahman Bin
Awf~. You al1 know that Khalid was one ofthe Companions, but he
was one of the late ones, whereas Abdur- Rahman was one of the early
Companionsof the Messenger of Alláh ~. When the Messenger of
Alláh ~ heard Khalid raising his voice over Abdur-Rahman's voice he
said:
~J;.t ~l:) ,..tI) '-f~l \F 'i \~~d J 0';¿G ~l ~))
. «}~ 'i'j ~~i 1: '~í~ G \ G.~ ~r
.. '" 1- '" '" 0 . U; p
'('"
"Would you not leave my Companions (alone)? Do not insult
them. By Alláh ifyou offered as much charity as [mount] Uhud,
it would not be equal to a (Mudd) half bushel weight of theirs,
nor half of that."
Thus a Companion of the later days did not have the same excellence
that an early Companion hado A behavior like raising the voice was
considered an insult to the early Companion. If this behavior coming
from a late Companion like Khalid .11 uP) deserved the anger of
4,;,Y

Alláh ~ and His Messenger ti, what would you say about those who
criticize, accuse and even slander the Companions of the Prophet ~?
Don't they realize that by doing so they hurt the Messenger ~ himself?
The Companions of the Prophet ~ relayed the book of Alláh ~ to the
people. They also conveyed the path and Sunnah of Muhammad ii.
Therefore, if anyone discredits them or accuses them of being such and
such; he not only denies their excel1ence over and favor upon all the
people after the Prophet ~, but also challenges the authenticity of the
message conveyed. It is therefore, a challenge to the origin of Islam. In
other words, by discrediting and putting down the Companions of
The Virtues 01 the Companions 01 the Prophet jjff 373

Muharnmad ~, one is questioning the credibility of the Messenger of

Alláh ~, and tuming away from the Book of Alláh and the Sunnah of the
Prophet ~. Discrediting the Companions is discrediting the trustworthy
narrators that transmitted the Book of Alláh ~ to us and the Sunnah of the
Messenger ~. This will lead those who accuse the Companions and
discredit them to doubt the authenticity of the Qur' án and Sunnah, which
inevitably willlead them to reject the Message itself, which is Islam.
To acknowledge the trustworthiness of all the Companions and abstain
from cursing them, criticizing them, or disparaging them, are parts of
safeguarding the Book of Alláh ~ and the Sunnah of the Messenger ~,
as well as Islam itself. On the other hand, Committing any of the
aboye, or getting oneself involved in any ofthe Companions' disputes
among each other, or putting sorne of them down in order to honor
others, shall only lead to disqualifying Islam and its bearers. The
trustworthiness of the Companions of the Prophet ~ was established by
the Qur'án and confirmed by the Messenger of Allah~. The accusations
made by sorne people against the Companions, will eventually reach the
Messenger of Alláh ~ whether they know it or not. It is also a fact that
whenever someone assails the companions of the Prophet of Alláh ~,
he starts trespassing the limits that Alláh ~ has set, against which no
one should trespass. By doing so, he will eventually start rejecting the
teachings of Islam.
My brothers in Islam, preserve the reverence for the Messenger ~, his
Companions and his family in your heart and demonstrate it by your
actions. Alláh ~ and His Messenger ~ loved the Companions. For that
reason, we should also love them. Refrain from involvement in anything
that might lead to questioning them or belittling their achievements.
Beware of the people who discredit them, object to their opinions or
mock their achievements. Those sick-hearted people's only intention is
to doubt the authenticity ofthe Qur'án and the Sunnah ofthe Prophet js.
Beware of them if you want to protect your faith and safeguard the
Message of your Prophet ~. They are cursed ones for whom Alláh ~
has prepared a great torment for their attacks on the integrity of the
Messenger of Alláh ~ and the doubts they raised against Islam. By this,
I conclude my speech and therefore ask Alláh ~ for forgiveness.
The Virtue o/Jihad in the Path o/Alláh 374

The Virtue of Jihüd in the Path of Alláh

All praise is for Alláh, Who ordered the Muslims to perform Jihdd
(fighting for the sake of Alláh) to purge the earth of infidelity,
disbelief, and aberration. I bear witness that there is no god worthy of
worship save Alláh Alone having no partners, and that Muhammad is
His slave and Messenger, who fought and struggled rightly and piously
with all means of struggle. He performed Jihád at every level
throughout his life and called the people to Islam using the signs and
proofs given to him by Alláh ~. He further fought, abiding by the
commandments of Alláh ~, to establish the religion ofIslam on earth.
His entire life was dedicated to that cause. His days, hours, and
minutes were committed to achieveing that goal. May peace and
prayers be upon him, his family and his Companions who dedicated
their lives and their wealth for Jihád in the path of Alláh ~ in order to
please Alláh ~ and be rewarded by Him.
O servants of Alláh! Fear Alláh and be aware ofthe fact that Alláh ~
with His great wisdom 'tests the believers. He tests them with the
existence of the disbelievers and hypocrites. The truthfulness of the
believers is tested in this way and they thereby eam their rank and
status in the Hereafter. Indeed Alláh ~ is able to ruin and destroy the
disbelievers completely, but He wants to test the believers through
their confrontation with them. Alláh ~ says:
./~.&í cr-;.-~~
1,/ . i~'~úJí/ .k;;;;ri·/
oIi• •/ í ·~t .,,;/ //-:.~~í(G.jí-'
.. .
~

~3 ~
¡,p/ ./~~\ .~/~ ~.,rA-'

..\-~/\/-;
""b.. ·1~(~t,... o:1.'-:;;""/-::-::/iír~t'''/o1l¡;~~/'
H.:r.~\'t:U!. \~~-""~ /~j
-l~~ O~
r·~j("f-71"--
"í,!.
r- ~
/. /. /."- "?"''''''' /. -~ /,/ /.
""""""~"»» /
/~,
~;¡í(;'i~1J?é:::j1~ &JIJ O~Llii~~r~_~\~
"But if it had been Alláh's Will, He Himself could certainly
have punished them (without you). But (He lets you fight) in
order to test sorne ofyou with others. But those who are killed in
the way of Alláh, He will never let their deeds be lost. He will
guide them and set right their state. And admit them to Paradise
which He has made known to them (i.e., they will know their
The Virtue 01Jihad in the Path 01Alldh 375

plaees in Paradise better than they used to know their homes in

the world). O you who believe! If you help (in the eause of)
Alláh, He will help you, and make your foothold firm. But those
who disbelieve (in the Oneness of Alláh - Islámic
Monotheism), for them is destruetion, and (Alláh) will make
their deeds vain." (47:4-8)
O believers! Jihád is the peak of Islam, and those who perform Jihád
oeeupy the highest ranks in Paradise as well as in this life. Alláh ~
said:
~;;\ J¡í ~ ~ 5J~t; d~í Jj\ ~ ~;1í ~ 5J~í .sR .,¡,
~ ~í ~ ~~; ~;~:-Jí ~ \=! },:t.; ~~\ &~í ~í ~ ;! ;-:t
¡¡
\.r~~-'-;~\-:¡/-''''"!'''.''/!/.:'''';'..J •• "'''''''0'..1' i./("'-:'" :::tri-;:~:"',¡.~~'\}:'\ ~~~;
~p.ul ¡jI)J "'-'".JJ ~J ~~.JJ ~'ft.:t~ 1.Tu..~ ~ ~J

,,",." - .:;
'~.J
"Not equal are those ofthe believers who sit (at home), exeept
those who are disabled (by injury or are blind or lame), and
those who strive hard and fight in the Cause of Alláh with their
wealth and their lives. Alláh has preferred in grades those who
strive hard and fight with their wealth and their lives aboye
those who sit (at home). Unto eaeh, Alláh has promised good
(Paradise), but Alláh has preferred those who strive hard and
fight, aboye those who sit (at home) by a huge reward. Degrees
of (higher) grades from Him, and forgiveness and merey. And
Alláh is Ever Oft-Forgiving, Most Mereifu1." (4:95,96)
Alláh ~ ordered the believers to perform Jihád against the
disbelievers and hypoerites. This is to be aeeomplished in four ways:
with the heart, with the spoken word, with money and with their
bodies. Fighting the disbelievers is to be aeeomplished with money and
weapons, whereas performing Jihád against the hypoerites is to be
aceomplished with proofs and reasoning. Alláh ~ has deereed Jihád to
make Alláh's word superior and to establish the worship of Alláh ~
alone, without partners. In this regard Alláh ~ says:
The Virtues ofthe Companions ofthe Prophet Ji 376

,i.~::' .1'~.1' ¡.. ~t'\".1' . . "~" «, /?""-:.:í~" • .1',). ;" l..

"t:;.Il)..~0:'::'l Ll~J~-';"':">""""':'~~~ ,,' ~ r
"And fight them until there is no more Fitnah (disbelief and
polytheism, Le., worshipping others besides Alláh), and the
religion (worship) will all be for Alláh Alone [in the whole of
the world]." (8:39)
Alláh has further decreed this obligation to defeat the disbelievers and
the Mushrikeen (those who take partners with Alláh ~) to protect the
believers from their harm. Alláh ~ said:
,,..,,,. " .... '" .J. -::~ ,;' .... .Jo .....J.'.)o~~ .... -:~ .... "'~~ /' .... >. .... Jf.J.// .... -:~~
~ y~\ ~ ~ ~J\~\'ijl \,..,.Ju ~~\-, ~\ ~ ~ ~}~\~ Ij..ol. ~~\ r
, "

"Those who believe, fight in the Cause of Alláh, and those who
disbelieve, fight in the cause of Tághút (Satan). So fight you
against the friends of Shaitán (Satan); ever feeble indeed is the
plot of Shaitán (Satan)." (4:76)
Ibn Al-Qayyim said: "The fact of the matter is that Jihád in general is
an obligation upon every Muslim. It can be established at different
levels by different means. These means are the heart, the speech, the
wealth and the body. It is incumbent upon every Muslim to establish
Jihád by one of these means." Imam Ahmad narrated a Hadith in
which aman asked the Prophet ~ to advise him, upon which he said:
"1 advise you to fear Alláh, for fearing Alláh is everything. Establish
Jihád, for it is the monasticism of Islam. Keep mentioning Alláh and
reciting the Qur'án for they are your soul in the heavens and your fame
on earth." In this regard the Prophet ~ said:

«~~\ ri.:.. ~\ r2w

iJJ~))
"Jihád is the utmost part ofIslam."

~f. '-?~\ ~K:J\J '".&\ J:i" J; ~~\ : ~~ ~.&\ J;. ;:;;. ~513))
.«Jlt.\1 ~; '-?~\ e\!HJ ,~\~~\
"Alláh vowed to help three persons: the one who fights in the
path of Alláh, the slave who wants to pay for his freedom, and
The Virtue ofJihad in the Path ofAl/ah 377

the man who wants to get married to keep himself away from
the temptation ofwomen."
""',0,...

r IJ fi r'o IJ ..:..,\.:: ':;11

,... ,,... Cl '"

. ((JL.i; ~ t..:....; \;:...:..,\.::.'~ <U ¿,~ 'o

¡ti /' ",,,. ~ / : " "

"He who dies without having fought for the sake of Alláh or
having intended to do so, will die with one of the characteristics
of hypocrisy."
J.&\ J.cG>1 • ,; .J.),t .
. r~// ~ -.)
t:;.~ ~
- J
'1 \:;.~ :;/J'1 ~:/
. .) ~ J fU.. í
'oí (Y
:/))
. «¡;;wJ\ ,/ /1'; ~ l1 J¿~
/ -,... ¡Y..
,... u:-- ,; .J.,... .
,....

"He who neither takes part in fighting, nor equips a fighter, nor
looks after a fighter's family will be afflicted by severe disaster
before the Day ofResurrection."
He ~ also said:
", ~ / / _ dl" I J/~/ _ \í.:< ' L 81 ~ /. \~\II
U..¡':J »Ó» ~ yu.,. J ¡;".J iwJ ! Slll"
/,

- ~ .r-';"". i.? <...J" ("rR ~

J

, J.&\ J~~1.&\ l /.. . ~I-:- 't¡ \ .</:> ~/'t¡ ú8~ \ J/:\/ _ VII ~
~~ .T / I..f:::;- ~ ~ r . .Y-';J J .J' ~
.Y.T J

. ((~: \A-\:;' J;- r~.'~ J~:Í- r-1 ·~~

"If people become stingy in giving charity, deal with Ina (a form
of business based on usury), follow the tails of cows (to resort
totally to life activities like farming), and ceas e to establish
Jihád in the cause of Alláh, soon Alláh ~ will afflict them with
a great tribulation which will never be alleviated until they
return to their religion."
Ibn Májah narrated that the Messenger of Alláh ~ said:
. «'i.JL"j//.&\ /~í.&\ l /. . . ,,~J.j / 'í/ \:./ ~//.&I /~í :/11
/ . /J '-:f'::' / I..f:::;- ~ .T ...r-::' J U' J f '-:f'::' (Y

"He who meets Alláh ~ without having showed a sign that he

fought on the path of Alláh ~ will meet Him with a deficiency."
O servants of Alláh, Jihád in the cause of Alláh can be fighting in the
path of Alláh or offering money in support of those who fight.
However, establishing Jihád through offering money has been
mentioned in the Qurán before establishing Jihád physically, as Alláh
The Virtue ofJihad in the Path ofAlldh 378

~ said:

J'::- !'c('t;~
».-: r~ , ~í ~
1 • -: j !é ~.~~ ''L-.I::'t í ~ ~\_:~f '\i;.1" "í"
~~!J r----:-Y ,.!J ~. :J ;J ~!J~

~G~~~0l¡SJ
"March forth, whether you are light (being healthy, young and
wea1thy) or heavy (being ill, old and poor), and strive hard with
your wealth_and your lives in the Cause of Alláh. This is better
foryou, ifyou butknew."(9:41)
Furthermore, Alláh made forgiveness, deliverance from the torment of
the Fire and entering Paradise conditional upon performing Jihád
physically and financially. In this regard Alláh ;g said:

"O you who believe! Shall 1 guide you to a trade that will save
you from a painful torment? That you believe in Alláh and His
Messenger (Muhammad ~), and that you strive hard and fight in
the Cause of Alláh with your wealth and your lives, that will be
better for you, if you but know! (If you do so) He will forgive
you your sins, and admit you into Gardens under which rivers
flow, and pleasant dwellings in 'Adn (Eden) Paradise; that is
indeed the great success." (61: 10-12)
Alláh ~ also said that He bought from the believers their souls and
money in return for Paradise. The Messenger of Alláh tJ;§; said:

~ -s1.. :*''-7"'~ ~;. J5 t;.J\ t;. ~~; :.tl ~

,,;./
~ ¡;;'-;j ~ :;11
.. ,,;
..~
.((¡...u.
"He who spends a pair of things out of the things in the way of
Alláh, will be called from the gates of Paradise: O servant of
Alláh! This gate is better for you."
The Virtue ofJihad in the Path ofAlláh 379

,«:G~ 4\ 1 ~.• '~~ ~ /.~~, ~ /»

'/' / '-F::-~ / ~J'

"He who makes a contribution (frorn his surplus wealth) for the
sake of Alláh, will have his reward multiplied seven hundred
times,"

.((~~:
"He who contributes from his wealth for the sake of Alláh, and
stays at his home will have the reward of seven hundred dirhams
for each dirham he spends."
~J1r¿/
//' .J
'LSK:.'l<\.4':
~.
'~li.'r4\
.J / / f ~ ! .J /
1 /.. '\:u.~~LJ~/))
'-F::- ~ J'
-Ó:

t ,. . , /. ..­
.(cJj;
/
'1\~¡f; ¡Y­
"Il:. '1
/, /~4\
"He who helps a Mujahid in the path of Alláh, helps pay the
debts of someone in debt, or contributes to the freedom of a
slave, will be in the shade of Alláh at the time when there is no
shade except the Shade of Alláh."
O servants of Alláh, establishing Jihád by offering money is to provide
the Mujahidoon with the money they need for their own expenses
during their incursions for the sake of Alláh ~, and for their family's
living expenses, and for buying weapons. For that reason, Alláh ~
mentioned participating in Jihád with money prior to participating in it
physically. This is a vital reason to have all the Muslims integrated like
one body so that if one organ suffers the whole body will empathize
with this organ by means of fever and lack of sleep.
~-~
:,.J
~ :" r..S"Jí \~ iJ'
4Lí ~-r: ,~ O ~ J " ití
-/ C3!'
0f l;::I.;í"'J /.;tí ~
,,_;-
, í;i-;¡" ~
~ / ~
~ .!.r: • ,... S- "f"" ".
"-/ ""--0\.:11"- ~~--;/
"\.;.;....>~J" -tJ
-! :/~í/ .~\!~i:.J":' ,-:"":'(::::
,_J~ ~ _/ J~

"And fight in the way of Alláh and know that Alláh is AlI­
Hearer, AlI-Knower. Who is he that willlend to Alláh a goodly
loan so that He may multiply it to him many times? And it is
The Virtue 01Jihad in the Path 01Alldh 380

Alláh that decreases or increases (your provisions), and unto

Him you shall retum." (2:244,245)
By this 1 conclude my speech and ask Alláh ~ to forgive all of our
sins and wrongdoings.
The Battle ofBadr 381

The Battle of Badr

All praise is for AIHl.h ~, the Most Strong, the Most Able, the
Almighty, and the Judge. 1 praise Him, thank Him, repent to Him and
seek His forgiveness. 1 bear witness that there is no god worthy of
worship except Alláh Alone, having no partners with Him. He grants
the believers victory, He supports them and sends His angels to fight
beside them provided that they established the religion and purified
their intentions. 1 bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and
Messenger, the leader of the courageous Mujahideen. May the peace
and blessings of Alláh be upon Him, his family, his Companions who
sacrificed their souls and wealth for the sake of pleasing Alláh,
defending his religion, and supporting the message.

"And Alláh has already made you victorious at Badr, when you
were a weak little force. So fear Alláh much that you may be
grateful. (Remember) when you (Muhammad ;i) said to the
believers, 'Is it not enough for you that your Lord (Alláh) should
help you with three thousand angels sent down?' 'Yes, if you
hold on to patience and piety, and the enemy comes rushing at
you; your Lord will help you with five thousand angels having
marks (of distinction).' Alláh made it not but as a message of
good news for you and as an assurance to your hearts. And there
is no victory except from Alláh, the All-Mighty, the All- Wise."
(3:123-126)
O Muslims, the great Battle of Badr was the first major battle the
The Battle ofBadr 382

Muslims fought under the command of the Messenger of Alláh ~.

Other minor incursions and military operations had preceded this battle
of which the objective was to train the Cornpanions, examine their
reactions and investigate the situation in different places in the Arabian
peninsula, particularly around the Al-Madinah. However, the Battle of
Badr was the actual beginning of Jihád in the form of war that involved
confrontation between the Muslims and the enemies of Islam. In this
speech 1 will not relate to you the events ofthis battle, as you know them
in general. Sorne of you are even aware of sorne of the details, as it was
an irnportant part ofthe great history ofIslam and its faith.
The story of this battle is too lengthy to be narrated in one speech.
However, what we are concerned about here are the important parts of
this great event. These are the milestones and lessons of the struggle
that we rnust understand, and learn and plan our future by. The first
lesson we must learn can be contemplated in the meaning of the
following Áyah:

"And Alléh has already made you victorious at Badr, when you
were a weak little force." (3: 123)
Alláh is reminding the Prophet and his Companions of His favor upon
them. They were weak and were not ready for this encounter, yet Alláh
bestowed His Merey upon thern and granted them victory over their
enerny. Many ofthern did not wish to go to war with the enemy. Sorne
even hated to gol AIl that they wanted was to capture the caravan.
After aH, .that was their objective in the first place when they left Al­
Madinah. This was clearly stated in the following Áyat:
. -:1~1 /J. --; > .2""í/ :>ií/'r~: --;-':1/ ~:'it ;í_vr -;-I~" ;íN~'f¡'''r'~
~¿"y~Ou~-f""'~j.-~Ul¡l";¡)".J-.r';.~~~.J~.rlw .."

->J:~~ 1l; ~lJ O;).J~ ~~ -;>;Jí j~S;,~ G'6 ~ c:~ ~í

j ~í ~;~ t:J ~t:s ~;ilí y\~ ft tí 6},;S rtJ y ~~í
~ ? oÍ' /
~ yJ
"
Jl:?:l,--°í ~)
íl.">' -':.:jí ~->\ 0-; ... ,?'íí "\~ /~":" ,~ ~:'íí ~ >
~~" ¿r.~.f;.
""
.J "" " » lY" ~
Á / > .>.~
"\<:»ya..¡:.::J ¡
The Battle ofBadr 383

"As your Lord caused you (O Muhammad ~) to go out from

your home with the truth; and verily, a party among the
believers disliked it. Disputing with you conceming the truth
after it was made manifest, as ifthey were being driven to death,
while they were looking (at it). And (remember) when Alláh
promised you (Muslims) one of the two parties (of the enemy,
i.e. either the army or the caravan) that it should be yours; you
wished that the one not armed (the caravan) should be yours, but
Alláh willed to justify the truth by His Words and to cut off the
roots of the disbelievers (i.e., in the battle of Badr). That He
might cause the truth to triumph and bring falsehood to nothing,
even though the Mujrimún (disbelievers, polytheists, sinners,
criminals) hate it." (8:5-8)
The situation of the Muslims before the battle was that they were not
prepared to fight. Their hearts were not united on one goal. Their
intentions were not clear about fighting the enemy at this point.
Moreover, they were not appropriately equipped for a confrontation
with the enemy. The weapons they had were only sufficient for a little
incursion in order to capture a caravan. Now they found themselves
compelled to fight a well-equipped army that greatly outnumbered
them! In other words, the Muslims were weak and anxious.
Thus the situation became very grave when they realized that the
caravan they wanted to capture was no longer within reach. Instead,
they were to fight a war with their historical and strategic enemy. They
had in mind the benefits of the caravan, but instead they were now
caIled upon to sacrifice.
The situation was again a difficult one when they saw their enemy's
army well equipped and triple their number. AIl the constituents of
victory were with their enemy. This would have been true if we
overlooked the decisive element of victory - the true faith. On the
other hand, the Muslim army had the least material preparation that
could qualify it for victory.
This situation compelled the commander of the Muslim army, the
Prophet ~, to tackle the weaknesses in his soldiers individualIy, and in
The Battle 01Badr 384

the army at large before the battle broke out. The first task he faced in
addressing the weaknesses of his soldiers was to change the objective
of their mission from attacking a caravan for financial and material
benefits, to fighting the inescapable war ahead. The commander ~ did
not face any difficulty in changing the objective. Both the Muhajirin
and the Ansar (the Immigrants and the Helpers) responded to the
Messenger's appeal positively and submitted to his command. The
epic of their readiness to surrender to the Messenger's commandment
was greatly manifested by Saad bin Mu'adh's reply to the Prophet ~.
He said:
"We believe in you and we bear witness that what you have been
sent with is the truth. We have further given you our pledges of
obedience and sacrifice. So do what you are commanded (by
Alláh to do). You have gone out for one mission, yet perhaps
Alláh wants you to do another. So go ahead, tie the links you
want, and sever the links you want! Be in peace with whomever
you want and be in war with whomever you want! Take from us
the money you like and whatever you take is dearer to us than that
which you leave. By Alláh, Who has sent you with the truth, if
you were to ask us to plunge into the sea, we would do that and
none of us would stay behind. We do not despise the idea that we
will encounter our enemy tomorrow. We have experience in war
upon which we are patient and we are reliable in combat. We
hope Alliih will show you through us that which will please your
eyes. So lead us and may Alláh bless us all."
With these decisive words, Saad bin Mu'adh put the souls of his fellow
Ansar (the Helpers) in the hands of the commander, who mustered the
soldiers, enabled them to concentrate on one goal and strengthened their
front. Alláh guaranteed support to these believers after they
demonstrated their honest intention to fight His enemies. Consequently,
every factor of weakness and humiliation became a source of strength
and victory. As regards the number of soldiers, Alláh ~ chose to
support the few against the many and to put down the bigger arrny.
When confrontation became inevitable, Alliih caused the Makkans to
The Battle 01 Badr 385

perceive the Muslims as a few, so they belittled them and that was the
first cause of the Makkans' defeat. On the other hand, the Muslims,
although they knew that the Makkans outnumbered them, were made
to perceive them as unimportant, weak and trivial. It is the
implementation of what Alláh stated in the Qur'án, that twenty
persevering men from the believers can overpower two hundred men
of the disbelievers, and a hundred persevering men of the believers can
overpower a thousand men from the disbelievers. Thus did the Qurán
point out the solution for the problem of the big difference in number
between the two armies. Alláh ~ says:
~-:~I~"
4.Il . '.~. . "'•.,1-' _
~ ~ q..-
.'" ~"'\·l~~~.(¡
__ Ql ~ • ",."¡.
. , ;J ..\~ ~'"
~..
~.".
:.-' ..
~;:':T\ \
."'~'" ~.\~ ~
,.... ~ ..~ • .1
'"
~~;'¡;6~~
"And (remember) when you met (the army ofthe disbelievers on
the day of the battle of Badr), He showed them to you as few in
your eyes and He made you appear as few in their eyes, so that
Alláh might accomplish a matter already ordained (in His
Knowledge)." (8:44)
As for the problem of the huge difference between the two armies
regarding equipment, weapons and logistic facilities, it was even easier
to handle than the problem of number. It all depended on the genuine
intention of the believer to encounter and defeat the enemy of Alláh
only to please Alláh ~, and not caring about his own Jife. He (the
believer) was willing to sacrifice his life for this sublime goal. He
knew what to expect of war, martyrdom or triumph. Thus the
believers' decisive weapon was their faith and aspiration to please
Alláh and gain victory or die trying. This aspiration was indeed the
most vital factor for victory that overpowered any strength on earth.
For that reason, Alláh reinforced the believers with His undefeatabJe
soldiers, the angels.
~"".JI'ud\; ,...¡:::~>t""~
t-~~ .t'~~
{""'-,..... \J:A, \"~J~''; t~t.J
. . > J v.... r"J .. i~~~
..r--
í.J~
;..
:'-¡-: ;).
01
~a-:""
~ \ '" --::\í ~~ ,~ t'"~~~ &.,.j;~ / --(,,'í \ ~ ~~ ~ \ ~í ~ L:~ O ~ d-> :.S:: -fí:ií
.. ~ 'J ~> ("":'Y"'.. ~.J r""' ->?.. . 'J .~.r ~ ..
~--0.í.r.?ií
,. ~/ .......... .....J¡í ~
,.,. ~..,

The Battle 01Badr 386

"Yes, ifyou hold on to patience and piety, and the enemy comes
rushing at you; your Lord will help you with five thousand
angels having marks (of distinction). Alláh made it not but as a
message of good news for you and as an assurance to your
hearts. And there is no victory except from Alláh, the All­
Mighty, the All-Wise." (3: 125,126)
Perhaps we can learn and understand more about the condition of the
believers at that time by learning how the Messenger of Alláh ~
approached his Lord in prayer. He ~ said:
~ ~" jo /j. 1) 1)" ~
\1\
-.1-.
1)

~ : ~I ~~1\1, ~~ 'j ¡;~\ .i; .511'," ¡J\ ~~ll\))

.r::' ¡"T-
.'
~J " .:G.; ';;; ~ t r­
'I·~~';ti t.~J '(+S~ ~\;J ,~~ ~~ ~~ (*U\ '~~J
0--;. . . . """ ""
. ((dl..,aj ~ • 'l! ¡j~;
"" 1) ""
'
; ~ ('"ff' J

"O Alláhl Should this group be defeated (on this day), You will
no longer be worshipped on earth. O Alláh! Fulfill what you
promised! O Alláhl They are barefooted, so carry them! They
are undressed, so clothe them! They are hungry, so feed them!
They are needy, so suffice them with your favors."
All the Muslims at that time were praying to Alláh ~, with humility
and submission, asking Him for aid and support. This was the
condition of the Prophet ~ and his army. They all surrendered to the
plan of Alláh ~ in the hope that He would help them defeat the enemy
of Islam in its first genuine confrontation. The response carne more
swiftly than they ever expected. It was the Words of Alláh ~ in which
He stated their prayer and His answer:
.c ....
:~ \.:::.c:,.~.-;;/
"'\ r - - - " .
-: { ,:::.-:; ~\ :k..
ji'
(""':'.J ¡,)~ ..

"(Remember) when you sought help of your Lord and He

answered you." (8:9)
Upon that, the whole situation changed. The believers strengthened
their intent to fulfill Alláh' s plan, holding fast to the genuine goal and
insisting on sacrificing their lives for the sake of pleasing Alláh ~ and
defending The Message. On the other hand, the disbelievers relaxed in
The Battle 01 Badr 387

achieving their objective when they underestimated the believers.

Their arrogance and pride had not instilled in them but weakness. In
this regard Alláh says:
"i
""~
óí ~r-"='
-: "'''ií'''Lí~~-qj\{
r--"'"' ." cJ~
·~í''':-'0{1·¡Ií''f.í-:~~:\''},.
_ ~0;..)J~ ')?

"And (remember) when Shaitán (Satan) made their (evil) deeds

seem fair to them and said: "No one of mankind can overcome
you this day (of the battle of Badr)"(8:48)
The Makkans were filled with arrogance, which was nothing but a
certain prelude to their defeat by the hands of the humble ones - the
believers. The Muslims defeated their enemy after they had caused
them many casualties. Many disbelievers were killed, many were
captured and all ofthem tasted the bitterness of defeat and humiliation.
The believers, on the other hand, tasted the sweetness of victory and
experienced first hand the practical outcome of their faithfulness and
trust in Alláh ~ and His Messenger ~.
The second lesson we must contemplate is that the Battle of Badr had
brought belief and disbelief face to face. The believers realized that the
matter could not sustain any more procrastination or bargaining. They
also realized that there would be no peace or coexistence between
Iman and Kufr in the Arabian Peninsula. It was time for Iman to
encounter its first practical test to prove its genuineness and
authenticity. Prior to Badr, the believers' faith was just a theoretical
conviction. They believed in the meanings and values of the unseen
and then carne Badr to prove the facts of the unseen to them. They
witnessed the impact of the unseen on their lives, when they
experienced what the angels, the soldiers of Alláh ~, did first hand.
The unseen was no longer a secret or something you only surrender to
as a belief. It became a phenomenal reality, angels sent clown to earth
to help and support the believers, and a victory that was not
accomplished solely by earthly efforts. Their victory was manipulated
through the plan of Alláh ~, which involved the unseen, that all the
believers believe in. Now, we have come to understand why Alláh ~
addressed the Messenger ~ and his army with the following Áyah after
The Battle 01 Badr 388

~;:"~í
"You killed them not, but Alláh killed them. And you
(Muhammad :i) threw not when you did throw, but Alláh threw,
that He might test the believers by a fair trial from Him. Verily,
Alláh is All-Hearer, All-Knower. This (is the faet) and surely,
Alláh weakens the deeeitful plots ofthe disbelievers." (8: 17,18)
May Alláh ~ bless us all with His Book and benefit us with its Áyat
and wisdom. By this, 1 eonc1ude my speeeh and ask Alláh ~ to forgive
all of our wrongdoings. Therefore, seek His forgiveness as He is the
All Forgiving, Most Mereiful.