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They say, ‘’Busying Oneself with Refutations Is Not Correct!’’ – Shaikh Rabee Responds To This Claim

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Calling To Islam - 'Da'wa', Methodology - 'Manhaj', Refutations, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allaah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy

They say, ‘’Busying Oneself with Refutations Is Not Correct!’’

Shaikh Rabee [may Allaah preserve him] responded to the above as follows:

The people used to read -a lot- the books of deviated views and the libraries were rotting and filled with the books of misguidance and bidah, but they [i.e. those who object when one looks into the books of refutations] did not speak in this manner. However, when the people began to [truly follow] the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah based upon the methodology of the Pious Predecessors and found those books that warned them against Bidah and misguidance, they [i.e. those who object when one looks into the books of refutation] said, “Do not busy yourselves with these affairs; do not abandon knowledge”.

These refutations are from affairs of knowledge. To be acquainted with guidance and [distinguishing it] from misguidance; to be acquainted with good and [distinguishing it] from evil -by Allaah – is from knowledge that will protect [a person], just as Hudhaifah [radiyallaahu-anhu] said, “The people used to ask the Messenger of Allaah about the good, but I used to ask him about the evil out of fear of falling into it”. The books of the people of bidah and misguidance must be known by way of the books that refute them. So unless this happens, then [one should know that] many of the youth were not ruined except when they were deprived of the likes of these books that protect them. There is a means of protection for the youth in these books [i.e. the books written by the scholars to refute errors, misguidance and ahlul bidah etc].

[Abridged & slightly paraphrased. Source: Juhoodul Allaamah Rabee Al-Madkhali Fee Naqdi Shubuhaatil Hizbiyyeen’ page 80-81]

 

The One Who Praises An Innovator Is One of Two People- By Shaikh Saaleh Al-Fawzaan

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Calling To Islam - 'Da'wa', Innovations In Islam (Bidah), Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allaah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy

Shaikh Saaleh Al-Fawzaan [may Allaah preserve him] said:

It is not permissible to exalt and praise the innovators even if they have some truth with them. That is because raising and praising them will spread their bidah and place them amongst the sincere ones-those who are taken as examples amongst distinguished men of this Ummah. The Salaf warned against having trust for the innovators, [warned against] praising them and their gatherings. In this regard, Asad Ibn Musa [rahimahullaah] wrote: ‘’Beware of being a brother of the innovator [by association] or a companion of his, or one whom you sit with; for indeed it has been narrated that ‘Whoever sits with a person of innovation has left the protection of Allaah and is entrusted to himself’.

The innovators must be warned against and shunned even if they have some truth with them. Indeed, the most astray are not devoid of some truth, but as long as they have with them innovation, opposition and sinful views, it is not permissible to praise and exalt them. It is impermissible to not have an objection against their innovation because this spreads bidah, belittles the Sunnah and by way of this the innovator will emerge and become a guide for the Ummah.

As for giving consideration [to the fact] that the innovator has some truth, this does not justify praising him. This is -to a far greater extent- against what is of overriding benefit and it is known- in relation to a principle in the religion- that preventing harm takes precedence over seeking that which is of benefit. And with regards to having hatred for the innovator, the harm that is prevented from the Ummah is weightier than the benefit possessed by the innovator. And had we adhered to this concept [i.e. praising an innovator because he has some truth with him], then no one would have been judged to be misguided and declared an innovator. That is because there is not an innovator except that he has some truth and adherence to the Sunnah. The innovator [may] neither be a disbeliever nor be in opposition to all the Islamic legislation; rather he is either an innovator in some or most of the affairs. [Ref 1] However, if the innovation is particularly related to affairs of Creed and Methodology, then the affair is dangerous indeed because it will become an example [to be followed], innovation will spread and the innovators will become active in spreading their innovation.

So, this person who praises innovators and makes their affair obscure to the people -due to some truth they have – is one of two [people]: He is either one ignorant of the methodology of the pious predecessors and their stance against the innovators, and it is neither permissible for this ignorant one to speak nor is it permissible for the Muslims to listen to him; or he is one who has an objection to the truth because he knows the danger of innovation and the innovators, but he wishes to spread innovations. Nevertheless, this is a dangerous affair and it is not permissible to be lackadaisical with regards to innovation and its people, whatever that may be.

[Source: At-Tabdee Wat-Tafseeq Wat Takfeer. Page: 72-76. Abridged and slightly paraphrased]

Ref 1: Bidah Al-Mukaffirah and Bidah Al-Mufassiqah:

Bidah Al-Mukaffirah: It is the Bidah that is tantamount to disbelief. Al-Allaamah Rabee Bin Haadi Al-Madkhali (may Allaah preserve him) was asked whether there is a difference between Bidah Al-Mukaffirah and Bidah Al-Mufassiqah; so Shaikh said that there is Bidah Mukaffirah, such as rejecting the Ruyah (i.e. denying that the believers will see Allaah in the afterlife); rejecting Allaah’s Uluww [i.e. denying that Allaah is above his creation –Allaah ascended over the Throne in a way that benefits his majesty)]; invoking other than Allaah; offering slaughtered sacrifice (i.e. animals) to other than Allaah etc. These are affairs of Bidah Al-Mukaffirah (the bidah that is tantamount to disbelief).

But we do not make Takfeer of the people who commit this type of Bidah until we establish the proofs against them. That is because some of them (i.e. the people who fall into these affairs) carry doubts and are far away from the era of Prophethood and its light (i.e. guidance). So they fall into the likes these innovations.

Rejecting the Ruyah is disbelief; rejecting Allaah’s Uluww is disbelief; the saying that the Qur’aan is created is disbelief-major disbelief. But this person, -[who testifies that none has the right to be worshipped except Allaah and that Muhammad is the messenger of Allaah, and he prays,  observes fasting, wants paradise and believes in that] -received the doubts of the people of falsehood, so he falls into the likes of these affairs (i.e. these innovations that are tantamount to disbelief). So we say to him: You have fallen into disbelief and the evidence is this and this, and we clarify for him.  So if Allaah grants him Tawfeeq and he returns to the truth, then all praise is due to Allaah. But if not, we declare him a disbeliever after establishing the proofs against him.

As for Bidah Al-Mufassiqah it is other than this (i.e. it is not at the level of that which is tantamount to disbelief)…. [Abridged and paraphrased, see www.rabee.net/ar/questions.php?cat=26&id=484 ]

 

Some Fruits of Taqwah and Sabr In The Story of Yusuf [alayhis-salaam]

Written by Masjid Furqan on . Posted in Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allaah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy

Allaah [The Most High] said in Surah Yusuf Aayah 90 that Yusuf’s [alayhis-salaam] brothers said:

قَالُوا أَإِنَّكَ لَأَنْتَ يُوسُفُ ۖ قَالَ أَنَا يُوسُفُ وَهَٰذَا أَخِي ۖ قَدْ مَنَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْنَا ۖ إِنَّهُ مَنْ يَتَّقِ وَيَصْبِرْ فَإِنَّ اللَّهَ لَا يُضِيعُ أَجْرَ الْمُحْسِنِينَ

They said: “Are you indeed Yusuf (Joseph)? “He said: I am Yusuf (Joseph), and this is my brother (Benjamin). Allah has indeed been gracious to us. Verily, he who fears Allah and is patient, then surely, Allah makes not the reward of the good-doers to be lost.

Few Reminders from the Above Aayah

They knew that the one who addressed them was Yoosuf, so they said: [ أَإِنَّكَ لَأَنْتَ يُوسُف -Are you indeed Yusuf (Joseph)]? Yoosuf said: [أَنَا يُوسُفُ وَهَٰذَا أَخِي ۖ قَدْ مَنَّ اللَّهُ عَلَيْنَا  – I am Yusuf (Joseph), and this is my brother (Benjamin). Allah has indeed been gracious to us]-Meaning: By [granting] us Eemaan, piety and authority in the worldly life, and that is due to patience and piety. [ۖ إِنَّهُ مَنْ يَتَّقِ وَيَصْبِرْ -Verily, he who fears Allah and is patient]- Meaning: keeps away from what Allaah has forbidden, exercises patience in facing pain and calamities, and [exercises patience] in carrying out the commandments [of Allaah];

[فَإِنَّ اللَّهَ لَا يُضِيعُ أَجْرَ الْمُحْسِنِين -then surely, Allah makes not the reward of the good-doers to be lost]- Meaning: Because this is from perfection in worship and Allaah does not allow the reward of the one who perfects his deeds to be lost.

[For further details, see Tayseer Al-kareem Ar-Rahmaan Fee Tafseer Kalaam al-Mannaan]

 

 

O Mukallafoon! Our Deeds Differ Greatly, So Let Us Strive To Excel Each Other

Written by Masjid Furqan on . Posted in Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allaah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy

Allaah [The Most High] said in Surah Al-Layl Aayah 4:

[إِنَّ سَعۡيَكُمۡ لَشَتَّىٰ- Certainly, your efforts and deeds are diverse (different in aims and purposes)]- Meaning: O Mukallafoon [i.e. those who have reached the age of accountability]! Your deeds differ greatly based on the type of deed [being performed], its value and the enthusiasm of [its performer]; and based on the aim and intention [of the performer] ….

[Source: (Tayseer al-Kareem Ar-Rahmaan Fee Tafseer kalaam Al-Mannaan). Abridged and paraphrased]

Reminder: The Khutbah at Masjid Al-Furqan Today [Stoke-On-Trent] Was Based On This Article- [Standing Out Firmly For Justice As Witnesses For The Sake of Allaah, Even Against Oneself, Parents, Close Relatives and Friends]

Written by Masjid Furqan on . Posted in Brotherhood, Calling To Islam - 'Da'wa', Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

Khutbah 24/02/2017

In The Name of Allaah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy

Allaah (The Most High) said:

يَـٰٓأَيُّہَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ كُونُواْ قَوَّٲمِينَ بِٱلۡقِسۡطِ شُہَدَآءَ لِلَّهِ وَلَوۡ عَلَىٰٓ أَنفُسِكُمۡ أَوِ ٱلۡوَٲلِدَيۡنِ وَٱلۡأَقۡرَبِينَ‌ۚ إِن يَكُنۡ غَنِيًّا أَوۡ فَقِيرً۬ا فَٱللَّهُ أَوۡلَىٰ بِہِمَا‌ۖ فَلَا تَتَّبِعُواْ ٱلۡهَوَىٰٓ أَن تَعۡدِلُواْ‌ۚ وَإِن تَلۡوُ ۥۤاْ أَوۡ تُعۡرِضُواْ فَإِنَّ ٱللَّهَ كَانَ بِمَا تَعۡمَلُونَ خَبِيرً۬ا

O you who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah; even though it be against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, be he rich or poor, Allah is a Better Protector to both (than you). So follow not the lusts (of your hearts), lest you may avoid justice, and if you distort your witness or refuse to give it, verily, Allah is Ever Well-Acquainted with what you do. [Surah An-Nisaa’ Ayah 135]

Imaam Ibnul Qayyim [rahimahullaah] said:

Allaah [Glorified be He and Free is He From all Imperfections] command His [servants] to stand out firmly for justice on behalf of everyone – whether an enemy or an ally.  And the affair that is most worthy of being established with justice -by a person- are the [sound and upright] statements, views and methodology related to the commands of Allaah and everything else Allaah has informed [His slaves in the Qur’aan and the Sunnah]. Therefore, to establish these affairs based on desires and disobedience is something contrary to the command of Allaah and a negation of what Allaah’s Messenger [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] was sent with [i.e. the Qur’aan and the Sunnah].

The establishment of justice [based on what Allaah and His Messenger have commanded] is the responsibility of those entrusted with the task to convey Islaam after the death of the Messenger [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam], and this task cannot become a reality unless when one establishes it based on pure justice and sincerity to Allaah; [sincerity] to Allaah’s Book; [sincerity] to Allaah’s Messenger and out of sincere advice to Allaah’s servants. These [people] are the true inheritors [of the knowledge left behind by the Prophets].  [A true inheritor of the Prophet [i.e. a righteous scholar] is not that one who merely makes his companions, sect and school of thought the determinants of truth and the distinction between [truth and falsehood] -by showing enmity towards the one who opposes him and allies with the one who agrees with him, merely based on being opposed or agreed with, [without sound proofs based on the Book and the Sunnah]- for where is that [application of the]  command to stand out firmly for justice on behalf of everyone [in the actions of that person who merely opposes or agrees with others based on other than the sound proofs found in the Qu’aan and the authentic Sunnah], even though standing out firmly for justice [based on the sound proofs in the Qur’aan and the authentic Sunnah] is the greatest command and obligation?!

Then Allaah (The Most High) says: [شُہَدَآءَ لِلَّهِ – As witnesses to Allah]: A witness is that one who presents information about something; therefore if he presents credible information, he is [considered to be] a just witness and his [statement] is accepted; but if he gives false information, he is [considered] a false witness. Allaah [The Most High] command [us] to stand out firmly as just witnesses for His sake, therefore it has to be carried out for the Sake of Allaah and not for other than Allaah.

And in [Surah Al-Maa’idah Ayah 8, Allaah (The Most High) said]: [كُونُواْ قَوَّٲمِينَ لِلَّهِ شُہَدَآءَ بِٱلۡقِسۡطِ‌ۖ – Stand out firmly for Allah and be just witnesses]: This Aayah establishes four affairs: [1] One should stand out firmly for justice and [2] does so for the sake of Allaah; [3]Witness to justice and [4] does so for the Sake of Allaah.

Then Allaah [The Most High) said: [وَلَوۡ عَلَىٰٓ أَنفُسِكُمۡ أَوِ ٱلۡوَٲلِدَيۡنِ وَٱلۡأَقۡرَبِينَ‌ۚ – Even though it be against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin];

Allaah [Glorified Be He and Free is He from all imperfections] commands [us] to stand out firmly for justice and testify [for or against] everyone, even if it were [against] someone who is the most beloved to person to [us]. A person should stand out firmly for justice [whether it is for or against] himself, his two parents, his other close relatives and his best friend amongst the people. If the person’s love for himself, his parents and his relatives prevents him from standing out firmly for the truth against them, especially if the truth is with someone he hates and regards as an enemy due to them, then indeed none will stand out firmly for justice in such circumstances except one whose love for Allaah and His Messenger is more than their love for everyone else. This is a test of one’s Eemaan, so that he becomes acquainted with the level of Eemaan [in relation to this affair] and [its importance] in his heart.

On the other hand a person has to establish justice when dealing with his enemies and [even] that one who deprives him of his rights; for indeed it not permissible that hatred for his enemies leads him to be unjust towards them, just as it is not permissible [to allow] love of himself, his parents and relatives to make him abandon standing firmly for justice against them. Therefore, hatred harboured against someone should not lead him to falsehood and love [of himself, parents and relatives] should not make him fall short in establishing truth, just as some of the Salaf said: ‘’The just person is that one who when angry, his anger does not lead him to falsehood, and when he is pleased, it does not remove him from truth.” The two verses of the Qur’aan [i.e. 4:135 & 5:8] convey two rulings and they are: Standing out firmly for justice and making a truthful testimony to it- on behalf of one’s allies and enemies.

Then Allaah [The Most High] said: [إِن يَكُنۡ غَنِيًّا أَوۡ فَقِيرً۬ا فَٱللَّهُ أَوۡلَىٰ بِہِمَا‌ۖ – Be he rich or poor, Allah is a Better Protector to both (than you)]- Meaning: Allaah is the Lord of both of them and Allaah is their Protector, and they are both His slaves. It may be that you become fearful of standing firmly for justice by testifying against a rich person or a poor person – either fearing that the rich person might lose his wealth or because the poor person has nothing, so your hearts become lackadaisical towards standing out firmly for the truth. Therefore, it should be said to them [i.e. the people]: Allah is a Better Protector to both the rich and poor person [than you]. Allaah knows the affair of the rich person more than you and He is more Merciful to the poor than you, so do not refrain from standing out firmly for the truth and from giving testimony [for or against] the rich or the poor.

Then Allaah said: [فَلَا تَتَّبِعُواْ ٱلۡهَوَىٰٓ أَن تَعۡدِلُواْ‌ۚ – So follow not the lusts (of your hearts), lest you may avoid justice]-Meaning: Allaah forbids [His slaves] from following desires, which will lead them to abandon justice. Then Allaah [The Most High] said:

[وَإِن تَلۡوُ ۥۤاْ أَوۡ تُعۡرِضُواْ فَإِنَّ ٱللَّهَ كَانَ بِمَا تَعۡمَلُونَ خَبِيرً۬ا – and if you distort your witness or refuse to give it, verily, Allah is Ever Well-Acquainted with what you do]- Meaning: Allaah [Glorified Be He and Free is He from all imperfections] mentions two reasons that will inevitably lead to concealment of truth, then He warned against them and threatened [the one who perpetrates this sin]. The first of them is distortion and the second is to turn away from giving truthful witness. That is because when a proof that supports the truth is manifested and the one who wants to repel it finds no way of doing so, he refrains from mentioning it and thus becomes a silent devil, and sometimes he distorts it. Distortion is of two types: Distortion in wording and distortion in meanings. Distortion in wording is when one utters a word in a context in which it does not establish the truth – either adding to the word or omitting something from it, or substituting it with something else- to the extent that the listener is made to believe something, whilst something else is intended by it, just as the Yahood  [i.e. those Yahood who disbelieved in the Prophet & hated him] used to distort words when giving Salaam to the Prophet [i.e. saying As-Saamu Alayka (death be upon you), instead of saying Assalaamu alaykum). This is one type of distortion.

The second type of distortion is related to meanings – distorting the wording; giving it an interpretation that is not intended by the one who uttered it and pretending not to know what is not its intended meaning, or dropping other meanings intended by it etc. Allaah [The Most High] said:

[وَإِن تَلۡوُ ۥۤاْ أَوۡ تُعۡرِضُواْ فَإِنَّ ٱللَّهَ كَانَ بِمَا تَعۡمَلُونَ خَبِيرً۬ا – and if you distort your witness or refuse to give it, verily, Allah is Ever Well-Acquainted with what you do].

And when it is the case that a witness is required to bear witness based on what the affair should be [i.e. the complete truth], therefore neither should he hide nor change it. Turning away from the testimony is tantamount to concealment and distortion is tantamount to alteration and substitution. Therefore, contemplate on this ayah and the treasures of knowledge it contains. The Eemaan of a person cannot be complete, except by way of accepting the texts of the sharee’ah and calling the people to them – neither turning away from them at times nor distorting them at other times.

[Source: Badaa’i At-Tafseer Al-Jaami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imaam Ibnul Qayyim (rahimahullaah). Vol 1. Page 300-303. Abridged & slightly paraphrased]

 

Istighfaar at all Times, Especially When One Reaches the Beginning of the End of His [Or Her] Life

Written by Masjid Furqan on . Posted in Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allaah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy

Allaah (The Most High) said:

إِذَا جَاءَ نَصْرُ اللَّهِ وَالْفَتْحُ وَرَأَيْتَ النَّاسَ يَدْخُلُونَ فِي دِينِ اللَّهِ أَفْوَاجًا فَسَبِّحْ بِحَمْدِ رَبِّكَ وَاسْتَغْفِرْهُ إِنَّهُ كَانَ تَوَّابًا

When comes the Help of Allah (to you, O Muhammad against your enemies) and the conquest (of Makkah); and you see that the people enter Allah’s religion (Islam) in crowds; so glorify the Praises of your Lord, and ask for His Forgiveness. Verily, He is the One Who accepts the repentance and forgives. [Soorah An-Nasr]

Few Beneficial Reminders from Imaam Ibnul Qayyim (rahimahullaah):

This shows that Allaah has legislated Tawbah and Istighfaar at the end of deeds, such as at the end of Hajj and  the night prayer. Whenever the Prophet (sallal laahu alayhi wasallam) finished the prayer (i.e. compulsory prayer), he would say Astaghfirullaah three times. It is also legislated for the one who performs Wudhu- after completing his (or her) Wudhoo- to say: [اللَّهُمَّ اجْعَلْنِي مِنْ التَّوَّابِينَ ، وَاجْعَلْنِي مِنْ الْمُتَطَهِّرِينَ – O Allah! Make me one of those who repent and make me one of those who purify themselves (Ref A)]. Allaah made it known that Tawbah is legislated at the end of righteous deeds, so Allaah commanded His Messenger to make Istighfaar after fulfilling the propagation of the Message of Islaam and Jihaad in the path of Allaah, after the people entered the religion in crowds. Propagating Islaam is an act of worship and he (Messenger) did it perfectly and fulfilled it, so Istighfaar was legislated for him at the end. [Ref 1]

Few Beneficial Reminder from Imaam Sadi (rahimahullaa):

This shows that the lifespan of Allaah’s Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) was coming close to its end and that virtuous deeds, such as prayer, hajj and other deeds are concluded with Istighfaar. Therefore, Allaah commanded his Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) with glorification and Istighfaar in this situation (i.e. after the conquest of Makkah and after people entered into the religion in crowds) as an indication that his life span was coming to an end, so that he prepares himself to meet his Lord and seal his lifespan with best of deeds… [Ref 2]

Few Benefits from Imaam Muhammad Ibn Saaleh al-Uthaymeen (rahimahullaah):

When one contemplates on the wisdom behind this, it means that after the Help of Allaah came to pass and the conquest of Makkah, then indeed the end of your lifespan [i.e. the Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam)] is close and there is nothing left for you except glorifying the praises of your Lord and Istighfaar…[Ref 3] [End of quotes]

We ask Allaah (The Most Merciful) to forgive us our shortcomings and show us mercy, for indeed we can never fulfil what He has commanded in the manner it truly deserves to be fulfilled. We ask Allaah to grant us thabaat, sidq, ikhlaas and husnul khaatimah…Aameen

[Ref A: Hadeeth reported by Imaam at-tirmidhee (rahimahullaah). Number 55 & declared authentic by Imaam Albaani (rahimahullaah) in Saheeh At-tirmidhee number 48]

[Ref 1: Badaa’i At-Tafseer Al-Jaami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imaam Ibnul Qayyim’ Vol 3 page 381-382. Publisher: Daar Ibn Al-Jawziyyah 2nd  Ed. Year 1431AH. Abridged and slightly paraphrased]

[Ref 2: Tayseer Al-Kareem Ar-Rahmaan Fee Tafseer Kalaam Al-Mannaan’ Publisher: Daar Ibn Hazm 1st Ed. 1424AH (Year 2003). Abridged & slightly paraphrased]

[Ref 3: Tafseer Juz Amma’ pages 336- 337. Publisher: Daar Al-Baseerah. ISBN: 2003/11937]

 

The Times During Which Du’aa is Accepted On Yawmul Jumu’ah

Written by Masjid Furqan on . Posted in Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allaah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy

Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz (rahimahullaah) stated that it has been transmitted in some of the narrations by Imaam Muslim (rahimahullaah) that it is the time when the Imaam sits on the Minbar on the Day of Jumu’ah up until the Salaah finishes. This is what has been transmitted in the hadeeth of Abu Moosaa (radiyallaahu-anhu). It has also been transmitted in the hadeeth of Jaabir Bin Abdillaah and Abdullaah Bin Salaam (radiyallaahu-anhumaa) that it is time period after Asr prayer up until sunset. And it has also been transmitted in some Ahaadeeth that it is the last hour on the day of Jumu’ah. All these statements are correct and they do not negate one another. And what is more explicit and more expected is that it is between the time when the Imaam sits on the Minbar up until the end of the prayer and the time between after Asr prayer up until sunset – these two time periods are more expected to be the periods during which supplication is accepted. And throughout the day of Jumu’ah, it is hoped that supplications are answered; but the most expected times are the times between when the Imaam sits on the Minbar until the end of the prayer and after Asr prayer until sunset. So it is befitting that one increases in making supplication on the day of Jum’ah, but it is befitting that one gives more concern in seeking after those three time periods that have been mentioned because the Messenger  (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) stated that they are the times in which supplication is answered.

[Fataawaa Shaikh Ibn Baaz 12/401-402 (Paraphrased & abridged)] http://www.albaidha.net/vb4/showthread.php?t=15141

Never Can a Person Please Everyone Because That is An Unattainable Goal, But Fulfil Rights of The People and Refrain From Oppression!

Written by Masjid Furqan on . Posted in Brotherhood, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allaah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy

Shaikhul Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah (rahimahullaah) said:

What is obligatory to know is that neither is it conceivable to the intellect (i.e. the sound, intellect) nor (plausible) in the religion to seek the pleasure of the creation (i.e. mankind) due to two affairs:

Firstly: (Imaam) Ash-Shaafi’ee said: The people are an unattainable goal. Therefore, it is obligated on you to (pursue) the affair that rectifies your affairs (and) adhere to them; abandon its opposite and do not concern (yourself with) it.

Secondly: Indeed, we have been commanded to (seek) the pleasure of Allaah and His Messenger, as Allaah (The Most High) said: [وَاللَّهُ وَرَسُولُهُ أَحَقُّ أَن يُرْضُوهُ إِن كَانُوا مُؤْمِنِينَ – but it is more fitting that they should please Allah and His Messenger (Muhammad), if they are believers (9:62)]

Therefore, it is incumbent upon us to fear Allaah and not fear anyone except Allaah, as Allaah (The Most High) said: [فَلَا تَخَافُوهُمْ وَخَافُونِ إِن كُنتُم مُّؤْمِنِينَ – so fear them not, but fear Me, if you are (true) believers (3:175)]

Allaah said:

[فَلَا تَخْشَوُا النَّاسَ وَاخْشَوْنِ -Therefore fear not men but fear Me (5:44)]

Allaah said:

[فَإِيَّايَ فَارْهَبُونِ – Then, fear Me (Allaah) much [and Me (Alone), i.e. be away from all kinds of sins and evil deeds that Allah has forbidden and do all that Allah has ordained and worship none but Allah (16:51)]

Allaah said:

[وَإِيَّايَ فَاتَّقُونِ – and fear Me and Me Alone (2:41)]

It is incumbent upon us to fear Allaah – fear Allaah concerning the (rights) of the people; neither harm them with our hearts (i.e. unjustified hatred, envy etc) nor by way of our limbs (i.e. physical harm). Fulfil their rights with our hearts and limbs, but do not fear them and leave what Allaah and His Messenger commanded. The one who adheres to this path, the (good) end results will be his, just as Aa’isha wrote to Mu’aawiyah, (saying), ‘’To proceed: Indeed, whoever seeks the pleasure of the people at the expense of Allaah’s Pleasure will (earn) Allaah’s displeasure and Allah will cause the people to be displeased with him. And the praise of the people will become blame against him. And whoever seeks Allaah’s Pleasure at the expense of people’s pleasure, will (earn) Allaah’s Pleasure and Allah will cause the people to be pleased with him.”

So the believer’s consideration and intention is nothing else but to (seek) the pleasure of his (or her) Lord and to avoid His displeasure, and the (good) end result will be his (or hers) – ولا حول ولا قوة إلا بالله

[Majmoo 3/233…Abridged and slightly paraphrased]

Among The Benefits of Humility and Contentment– By Imaam ash-Shaafi’ee

Written by Masjid Furqan on . Posted in Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

Imaam Shafi’ee (rahimahullaah) said:

Humility is from the manners of the noble ones and pride is from the characteristics of the vile ones.  Humility  brings about the people’s love (for a person) and contentment brings about peace of mind.

[Siyar A’laan An-Nubulaa’ 10/99]

An Introduction to the study of the Sound Islamic Creed

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Belief - 'Aqeedah', Monotheism - Tawheed, Purification of The Soul, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allaah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of mercy

The sources of the (Islamic Creed) can only be established through the Qur’aan and the Sunnah. The Creeds are of two types: (a) the creed revealed by Allaah and the creed fabricated by the people. However, the sound and correct creed can only be from Allaah’s Wahi [the revelation sent down by Allaah (the Qur’aan and the authentic Sunnah)].  Allaah (The Most High) informed us about Yoosuf (alayhis-salaam) and what said to his companions in the prison:

يَا صَاحِبَيِ السِّجْنِ أَأَرْبَابٌ مُتَفَرِّقُونَ خَيْرٌ أَمِ اللَّهُ الْوَاحِدُ الْقَهَّارُ; مَا تَعْبُدُونَ مِنْ دُونِهِ إِلَّا أَسْمَاءً سَمَّيْتُمُوهَا أَنْتُمْ وَآَبَاؤُكُمْ مَا أَنْزَلَ اللَّهُ بِهَا مِنْ سُلْطَانٍ إِنِ الْحُكْمُ إِلَّا لِلَّهِ أَمَرَ أَلَّا تَعْبُدُوا إِلَّا إِيَّاهُ ذَلِكَ الدِّينُ الْقَيِّمُ وَلَكِنَّ أَكْثَرَ النَّاسِ لَا يَعْلَمُونَ

“O two companions of the prison! Are many different lords (gods) better or Allah, the One, the Irresistible? You do not worship besides Him but only names which you have named (forged), you and your fathers, for which Allah has sent down no authority. The command (or the judgement) is for none but Allah. He has commanded that you worship none but Him (i.e. His Monotheism), that is the (true) straight religion, but most men know not.” [Soorah Yoosuf: Ayah: 39-40]

Allaah (The Most High) said:

أَفَرَأَيْتُمُ اللَّاتَ وَالْعُزَّى (19) وَمَنَاةَ الثَّالِثَةَ الْأُخْرَى (20) أَلَكُمُ الذَّكَرُ وَلَهُ الْأُنْثَى (21) تِلْكَ إِذًا قِسْمَةٌ ضِيزَى (22) إِنْ هِيَ إِلَّا أَسْمَاءٌ سَمَّيْتُمُوهَا أَنْتُمْ وَآَبَاؤُكُمْ مَا أَنْزَلَ اللَّهُ بِهَا مِنْ سُلْطَانٍ إِنْ يَتَّبِعُونَ إِلَّا الظَّنَّ وَمَا تَهْوَى الْأَنْفُسُ وَلَقَدْ جَاءَهُمْ مِنْ رَبِّهِمُ الْهُدَى (23)

”Have you then considered Al-Lat, and Al-‘Uzza (two idols of the pagan Arabs) And Manat (another idol of the pagan Arabs), the other third? Is it for you the males and for Him the females? That indeed is a division most unfair! They are but names which you have named, you and your fathers, for which Allah has sent down no authority.’’ [Soorah Najm: 19-23]

Allaah (The Most High) said:

أَمْ لَهُمْ شُرَكَاءُ شَرَعُوا لَهُمْ مِنَ الدِّينِ مَا لَمْ يَأْذَنْ بِهِ اللَّهُ

 ”Or have they partners with Allah (false gods), who have instituted for them a religion which Allah has not allowed.’’ [Soorah Ash-Shoorah: Ayah:21]

Allaah (The Most High) said:

وَكَذَلِكَ أَوْحَيْنَا إِلَيْكَ رُوحًا مِنْ أَمْرِنَا مَا كُنْتَ تَدْرِي مَا الْكِتَابُ وَلَا الْإِيمَانُ وَلَكِنْ جَعَلْنَاهُ نُورًا نَهْدِي بِهِ مَنْ نَشَاءُ مِنْ عِبَادِنَا وَإِنَّكَ لَتَهْدِي إِلَى صِرَاطٍ مُسْتَقِيمٍ (52) صِرَاطِ اللَّهِ الَّذِي لَهُ مَا فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَمَا فِي الْأَرْضِ أَلَا إِلَى اللَّهِ تَصِيرُ الْأُمُورُ

”And thus We have sent to you (O Muhammad) Ruhan (an Inspiration, and a Mercy) of Our Command. You knew not what is the Book, nor what is Faith? But We have made it (this Qur’an) a light wherewith We guide whosoever of Our slaves We will. And verily, you (O Muhammad) are indeed guiding (mankind) to the Straight Path (i.e. Allah’s religion of Islamic Monotheism).” [Soorah Ash-shoorah: ayah:52-53]

All these aayaat demonstrates the fact that sound Islamic creed can only be derived from the revelation (i.e. the Qur’aan and the Sunnah

The Sunnah: The delegation of Abdul Qais:

The delegation said: ”O Messenger of Allah, we come to you from a far-off distance and there lives between you and us a tribe of the kuffaar of Mudar, and it is not possible for us to come to you except in the sacred months. So direct us to a clear command, concerning which we are to inform others and by way of which we may enter paradise. He (Sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) said: I command you to do four things and forbid you from four things, and he added: I command you with Imaan in Allaah, and then he (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) asked them: Do you know what Imaan in Allaah is? They said: Allah and His Messenger know best. The Prophet said: It is the testimony that none has the right to be worshipped except Allaah and that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah….to the end of the Hadeeth [Saheeh Muslim]

These people were Arabs and people of eloquence in their language, however when the Messenger asked them about what Imaan is, they replied: ”Allaah and His Messenger know best.’’  This shows that the affairs of the creed and Eemaan are only established by way of the revelation. As for the people of innovation and desires, some of them derive their creed by way of the intellect, opinions, dreams, fables and what they relish of beliefs. 

Principles We Must Establish In This Affair

The First Principle:

We believe that the Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) has clarified all the affairs of the religion. He has clarified its fundamentals, subsidiary issues, beliefs and prescribed laws. Allaah (The Most High) said:

الْيَوْمَ أَكْمَلْتُ لَكُمْ دِينَكُمْ وَأَتْمَمْتُ عَلَيْكُمْ نِعْمَتِي وَرَضِيتُ لَكُمُ الْإِسْلَامَ دِينًا

”This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.” [Soorah Al-Maa-idah: Ayah:3]

So when it is the case that the Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) has even explained in detail the etiquettes of using the toilet, then it is not possible that he would not have detailed the affairs of the creed, thus giving an allowance for others to come along and make up beliefs based on their intellects, opinions etc. Indeed, the Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) has clarified all the Religion, its creed and laws. 

The Second Principle

The Book of Allaah (The Most High) and the Sunnah of the Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) are the sources of the religion, and every dispute between the Muslims is to be referred back to them. Allaah (The Most High) said:

فَلَا وَرَبِّكَ لَا يُؤْمِنُونَ حَتَّى يُحَكِّمُوكَ فِيمَا شَجَرَ بَيْنَهُمْ ثُمَّ لَا يَجِدُوا فِي أَنْفُسِهِمْ حَرَجًا مِمَّا قَضَيْتَ وَيُسَلِّمُوا تَسْلِيمًا

”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.” [Soorah An-Nisaa: ayah:65]

Allaah (The Most High) said:

وَمَا كَانَ لِمُؤْمِنٍ وَلَا مُؤْمِنَةٍ إِذَا قَضَى اللَّهُ وَرَسُولُهُ أَمْرًا أَنْ يَكُونَ لَهُمُ الْخِيَرَةُ مِنْ أَمْرِهِمْ وَمَنْ يَعْصِ اللَّهَ وَرَسُولَهُ فَقَدْ ضَلَّ ضَلَالًا مُبِينًا

”It is not for a believer, man or woman, when Allah and His Messenger have decreed a matter that they should have any option in their decision. And whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger, he has indeed strayed in a plain error.”[Soorah Al-Ahzaab: Ayah:36]

Allaah (The Most High) said:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آَمَنُوا أَطِيعُوا اللَّهَ وَأَطِيعُوا الرَّسُولَ وَأُولِي الْأَمْرِ مِنْكُمْ فَإِنْ تَنَازَعْتُمْ فِي شَيْءٍ فَرُدُّوهُ إِلَى اللَّهِ وَالرَّسُولِ إِنْ كُنْتُمْ تُؤْمِنُونَ بِاللَّهِ وَالْيَوْمِ الْآَخِرِ ذَلِكَ خَيْرٌ وَأَحْسَنُ تَأْوِيلًا

”O you who believe! Obey Allah and obey the Messenger (Muhammad), and those of you (Muslims) who are in authority. (And) if you differ in anything amongst yourselves, refer it to Allah and His Messenger (), if you believe in Allah and in the Last Day. That is better and more suitable for final determination.’’ [Soorah An-Nisaa: Ayah: 59]

And referring back to Allaah is to refer to His Book (i.e. the Qur’aan), and referring to the Messenger is to refer to his Sunnah. The one who does not do this, then indeed he has deviated from the straight path. Shaikhul Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah (rahimahullaah) used to say often:

مَنْ فَارَقَ الدَّلِيل ضَلَّ السَّبِيل وَلَا دَلِيل إِلَّا بِمَا جَاءَ بِهِ الرَّسُول

Whoever opposes the proofs will be led away from the path, and there is no proof, except that which the Messenger came with.

Ibn Abil Izz Al-Hanafi (rahimahullaah) said:

كَيْفَ يُرَام الْوُصُول إِلَى عِلْمِ الْأُصُولِ بِغيْرِ مَا جَاءَ بِهِ الرَّسُول

How can one aim at reaching knowledge of the fundamental principles of the (religion) with other than what the Messenger brought?!

The Third Principle:

A Muslim is not to put himself forward before Allaah and His Messenger. He is not to speak about the Religion without knowledge from Allaah and His Messenger, because that is from the greatest of sins and crimes. Allaah (The Most High) said:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آَمَنُوا لَا تُقَدِّمُوا بَيْنَ يَدَيِ اللَّهِ وَرَسُولِهِ وَاتَّقُوا اللَّهَ إِنَّ اللَّهَ سَمِيعٌ عَلِيمٌ

 ”O you who believe! Do not put (yourselves) forward before Allah and His Messenger (), and fear Allah. Verily! Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing.” [Soorah Al-Hujuraat: Ayah:1]

This means: Neither speak (about the religion) until Allaah and His Messenger speak, nor act (in the name of the religion) until you are commanded; neither in the affairs of creed and acts of worship nor in the affairs of knowledge.

Allaah (The Most High) said:

 وَلَا تَقْفُ مَا لَيْسَ لَكَ بِهِ عِلْمٌ إِنَّ السَّمْعَ وَالْبَصَرَ وَالْفُؤَادَ كُلُّ أُولَئِكَ كَانَ عَنْهُ مَسْئُولًا

‘’And follow not (O man i.e., say not, or do not or witness not, etc.) that of which you have no knowledge (e.g. one’s saying: “I have seen,” while in fact he has not seen, or “I have heard,” while he has not heard). Verily! The hearing, and the sight, and the heart, of each of those you will be questioned (by Allah).’’ [Soorah Al-Israa: Ayah:36]

The Fourth Principle:

Our understanding of the Book (of Allaah) and the Sunnah of the Messenger has to be in agreement with the understanding of the salaf (i.e. the pious predecessors). They (i.e. the pious predecessors) possessed the most pious of hearts and purest of souls. They were the ones who received the religion directly from the Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) and transmitted it to the Ummah as they heard it, and they fulfilled its requirements. Indeed, Allaah selected them to be the companions of the Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) and carriers of His religion. Allaah was pleased with them and they were pleased with Allaah. Allaah (The Most High) sent down tranquillity upon them and bestowed them with piety. Therefore, it is obligatory to understand the religion the manner in the manner in which they understood it. And it not for a person to come along thereafter and say: ‘’They (i.e. the companions of Muhammad) were men and we are men;’’ and if someone says this, then indeed he is a person of misguidance. And for this reason, Allaah (The Most High) said:

وَمَنْ يُشَاقِقِ الرَّسُولَ مِنْ بَعْدِ مَا تَبَيَّنَ لَهُ الْهُدَى وَيَتَّبِعْ غَيْرَ سَبِيلِ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ نُوَلِّهِ مَا تَوَلَّى وَنُصْلِهِ جَهَنَّمَ وَسَاءَتْ مَصِيرًا

 ”And whoever contradicts and opposes the Messenger (Muhammad ) after the right path has been shown clearly to him, and follows other than the believers’ way. We shall keep him in the path he has chosen, and burn him in Hell – what an evil destination.’’ [Soorah An-Nisaa: Ayah:115]

And Allaah (The Most High) said:

وَالسَّابِقُونَ الْأَوَّلُونَ مِنَ الْمُهَاجِرِينَ وَالْأَنْصَارِ وَالَّذِينَ اتَّبَعُوهُمْ بِإِحْسَانٍ رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُمْ وَرَضُوا عَنْهُ وَأَعَدَّ لَهُمْ جَنَّاتٍ تَجْرِي تَحْتَهَا الْأَنْهَارُ خَالِدِينَ فِيهَا أَبَدًا ذَلِكَ الْفَوْزُ الْعَظِيمُ

”And the first to embrace Islam of the Muhajirun (those who migrated from Makkah to Al-Madinah) and the Ansar (the citizens of Al-Madinah who helped and gave aid to the Muhajirun) and also those who followed them exactly (in Faith). Allah is well-pleased with them as they are well-pleased with Him. He has prepared for them Gardens under which rivers flow (Paradise), to dwell therein forever. That is the supreme success.”[Soorah At-Tawbah: Ayah: 100]

This is the aim: We follow them exactly (in faith) and we follow their path. The closer a person is in following them, then the closer is he to guidance. And in a hadeeth, the Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) said:”the best of people are those living in my generation, then those who come after them, and those after them….’’ 

 The Fifth Principle:

It is obligatory upon the person who has been bestowed with this favour of (holding unto the Book of Allaah, the Sunnah of the Messenger and the understanding of the pious predecessors) to be steadfast upon it. He is to be steadfast upon it by way of knowledge, creed and action until Allaah takes his soul. Allaah said:

فَاسْتَقِمْ كَمَا أُمِرْتَ

”So stand (ask Allah to make) you (Muhammad) firm and straight (on the religion of Islamic Monotheism) as you are commanded.” [Soorah hood: Ayah:112]

Steadfastness can only be through what Allaah has revealed. Allaah (The Most High) said:

إِنَّ الَّذِينَ قَالُوا رَبُّنَا اللَّهُ ثُمَّ اسْتَقَامُوا فَلَا خَوْفٌ عَلَيْهِمْ وَلَا هُمْ يَحْزَنُونَ

”Verily, those who say: “Our Lord is (only) Allah,” and thereafter Istaqamu (i.e. stood firm and straight on the Islamic Faith of Monotheism by abstaining from all kinds of sins and evil deeds which Allah has forbidden and by performing all kinds of good deeds which He has ordained), on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.”[Soorah Al-ahqaah: Ayah:13]

Allaah (The Most High) said:

إِنَّ الَّذِينَ قَالُوا رَبُّنَا اللَّهُ ثُمَّ اسْتَقَامُوا تَتَنَزَّلُ عَلَيْهِمُ الْمَلَائِكَةُ أَلَّا تَخَافُوا وَلَا تَحْزَنُوا وَأَبْشِرُوا بِالْجَنَّةِ الَّتِي كُنْتُمْ تُوعَدُونَ

”Verily, those who say: “Our Lord is Allah (Alone),” and then they Istaqamu , on them the angels will descend (at the time of their death) (saying): “Fear not, nor grieve! But receive the glad tidings of Paradise which you have been promised!” [Soorah Fussilat: Ayah:30]

This steadfastness is sought from a (slave of Allaah); steadfastness upon the (sound) creed, righteous action and deeds that draws him close to Allaah until Allaah takes away his soul. Allaah (The Most High) said:

وَاعْبُدْ رَبَّكَ حَتَّى يَأْتِيَكَ الْيَقِينُ

 And worship your Lord until there comes unto you the certainty (i.e. death). [Soorah al-Hijr: Ayah:99]

And Allaah (The Most High) said:

 يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آَمَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللَّهَ حَقَّ تُقَاتِهِ وَلَا تَمُوتُنَّ إِلَّا وَأَنْتُمْ مُسْلِمُونَ

 ”O you who believe! Fear Allah (by doing all that He has ordered and by abstaining from all that He has forbidden) as He should be feared. [Obey Him, be thankful to Him, and remember Him always], and die not except in a state of Islam (as Muslims) with complete submission to Allah. [Soorah Aala Imraan: Ayah: 102]

And amongst the tremendous supplications is what has been reported by Ibn Abee Shaybah that Abu Dardaa (radiyallaahu-anhu) used to supplicate saying:

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي

أَسْأَلُكَ إيمَانًا دَائِمًا وَعِلْمًا نَافِعًا وَهَدْيًا قَيِّمًا

 ”O Allaah! I ask you for abiding Imaan, beneficial knowledge and upright guidance.”

Mu-aawiyyah Ibn Qurra (rahimahullaah) transmitted this narration from Abu Dardaa and then said: ”Because there is Imaan that is not abiding, knowledge that is not beneficial and guidance that is not upright.”   Therefore, a Muslim must ask Allaah for these (things) and he should employ the means to attainting them, as the Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) said: ‘’be eager for what is of benefit to you, and place your reliance upon Allaah’’

The Sixth Principle:

And after being steadfastness upon the (sound creed, in following the Qur’aan, the Sunnah and the way of the pious predecessors), one must call to it. Allaah (The Most High) said:

وَالْعَصْرِ (1) إِنَّ الْإِنْسَانَ لَفِي خُسْرٍ (2) إِلَّا الَّذِينَ آَمَنُوا وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ وَتَوَاصَوْا بِالْحَقِّ وَتَوَاصَوْا بِالصَّبْرِ (3)

By Al-‘Asr (the time). Verily! Man is in loss, Except those who believe (in Islamic Monotheism) and do righteous good deeds, and recommend one another to the truth (i.e. order one another to perform all kinds of good deeds (Al-Ma’ruf)which Allah has ordained, and abstain from all kinds of sins and evil deeds (Al-Munkar)which Allah has forbidden), and recommend one another to patience (for the sufferings, harms, and injuries which one may encounter in Allah’s Cause during preaching His religion of Islamic Monotheism or Jihad, etc.). [Soorah al-Asr]

Therefore, one has to call to the (path and religion) of Allaah in accordance with what Allaah makes easy for the person in that. The Messenger (sallal-laahu-alahi-wasallam) said to Ali (radiyallaahu-anhu): ”By Allaah, for Allah to guide one man by you is better for you than red camels.” The Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) also said: ”hoever calls to guidance, he will be rewarded, and (also) receive reward equal to those who follow him, without their rewards being reduced in the least.” The Messenger (sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam) also said: ”The one who guides to good is like the doer of that deed itself’’ 

[Source: Madkhal Li-Diraasati Aqeedah Al-Islaamiyyah: lesson:2′ by Shaikh Abdur Razzaaq Al-Badr (may Allaah preserve him)]