Eid Mubarak!

PRAYER FOR PEACE

Taken from Islamic Religious Council of Singapore, MUIS

Oh Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful, grant us peace and Iman, safety and Islam, and guidance to perform all that you please.

Oh Allah, the Generous, the Gracious, grant all goodness to Muslims, and all blessings to the faithful, and all mercies to mankind.

Oh Allah, guide this Ummah to do the best, bless this Ummah to be loving and compassionate, help this Ummah to spread good and peace to all mankind.

Oh Allah, remove all conflicts and hatred that is happening. Grant peace and restore human dignity in this world. Safe this earth from destruction due to human ignorance, grant our country and the entire world with safety, peace, calmness, tranquillity, progress and development.

Oh Allah, may this day of ours be better than yesterday. May our tomorrow be better than today. Please grant us positive outcomes in all our endeavours. Save us from disappointment both in this world and in the hereafter.

Oh Allah, the Gentle, the Sustainer, may peace and calmness prevail in this world. Guide mankind to uphold justice and equality. Protect our young from misguidance. Give us the strength to spread your true message. Strengthen us to be a blessing to all mankind - Ameen.

I would like to wish Muslims all over the world happiness, prosperity and all things good; now and forever

Eid Mubarak everyone!

Eid-ul-Adha Prayer Times 2010

The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia announced that 1 Dhul-Hijjah will be on Sunday 7 November 2010, and the Muslims performing Hajj will be in 'Arafah on Monday 15 November 2010.

According to Fiqh Council of North America (FCNA), Eid-al-Adha in North America would be on the day after Hajj; so Eid-al-Adha is on Tuesday, November 16, 2010. - Source Moonsighting.com

The Coordination Committee of Major Islamic Centres and Mosques of London have agreed that Eid ul-Adha will be on Tuesday 16 November 2010. - Source: East London Mosque
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EID MUBARAK!

Here are the prayer times for London and rest of UK... (Note: Unless stated all the mosques listed below will celebrate Eid on Tuesday 16 November 2010 All information here has been collated for you by myself and other kind brothers/ sisters in good faith, please double check with the mosque in case there are any inaccuracies).

LONDON

London Central Mosque (Regents Park Mosque, NW8 7RG)
Eid Prayer times: 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM
Website: http://www.iccuk.org/

East London Mosque (Whitechapel Road, E1 1JX)
Eid Prayer times: 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM
Website: http://www.eastlondonmosque.org.uk/

Brick Lane Jamm Masjid (59 Brick Lane, E1 6QL)
Eid Prayer times: 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM

Shahjalal Masjid (Hale Street, Poplar E14 0BF)
Eid Prayer times: 8:30 AM, 9:30 AM, and 10:30 AM

Website: http://www.poplarsm.org.uk/

Holborn Muslim Community Association (EC1N 7RR)
Eid Prayer times: 8:30 AM and 9:30 AM

Limehouse Mosque & Bangladeshi Cultural Centre (E14 8AE)
Eid Prayer times: 8.30 AM, 9.30 AM and 10.30 AM

Muslim Cultural Heritage Centre (West London, W10 5YG)
Eid Prayer times: 8.00 AM, 9.00 AM and 10.00 AM
Website: http://www.almanaar.org.uk/

AbuBakar Masjid (Southall - Middx, UB1 1LS)
Eid Prayer times: 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM
Website: http://www.abubakrmosque-southall.org.uk/

Hendon Mosque & Islamic Centre (Brent View Road, NW9 7EL)
Eid Prayer times: 7:30 AM, 8:15 AM, 9:00 AM, 9:45 AM
Website: http://www.hendonmosque.co.uk/

Finchley Mosque (Islamic Association of North London, N12 0DA)
Eid Prayers Times: 7.40 AM, 8.30 AM, 9.15 AM, 10.00 AM, and 10.45 AM
Website: http://www.ianl.org.uk/

Muslim Community and Education Centre (Palmers Green, N13 5JL)
Eid prayer Times: 8.00 AM, 9.30 AM and 11.00 AM
Website: http://www.mcec.org.uk/

Masjid E-Quba (North London, Stamford Hill, N16 6AA)
Eid Prayer times: 7.45 AM and 9.15 AM
Website: http://www.masjidequba.org.uk/

Harrow Central Mosque (Station Road, Harrow, HA1 2SQ)
Eid Prayer times: 7:45 AM, 8:30 AM, 9.15 AM, and 10.00 AM
Website: http://www.harrowmosque.org.uk/


REST OF UK

Aberdeen Mosque and Islamic Centre
Eid al-Adha Venue: Beach Leisure Centre, Beach Promenade, AB24 5NR.
Eid Prayer Times: 8:30 AM and 10:15 AM
Website: http://www.aberdeenmosque.org/

Belfast Islamic Centre
Prayers will be at Shaftesbury Leisure Centre, 97 Balfour Avenue, Belfast BT7 2EW
Prayer Times: 9.00 AM (Arrival & Takbeer, followed by Eid prayer around 10:30)
Please double check this with mosque.
Please bring your own prayer mat
Website: http://www.belfastislamiccentre.org.uk/

Birmingham Central Mosque (Highgate, B12 0XS)
Eid prayer Times: 8:00 AM (Arabic), 8:45 AM (Urdu),  9:30 AM English), 10:15 AM (English), 11:00 AM (Urdu)
Website: http://www.centralmosque.org.uk/

Birmingham - Masjid Hamza (Church Road, B13 9AE)
Eid Prayer Times: 8.30 AM (Urdu), 9.45 AM (English)
Websiite: http://www.masjidehamza.co.uk/

Blackburn - Jamme Masjid Islamic Cultural Centre (BB1 1JP)
Eid Prayer Times: Awaiting Conformation
Website: http://www.jaamemasjid.org/

Blackburn - Masjid-e-Anisul Islam (Troy St, BB1 6NY)
Eid Prayer times: Bayan will start at 8.20 AM, Eid prayer time will be around 8.45 AM
Website: http://www.anisulislam.com/

Bolton - Taiyabah Masjid (BL1 8HD)
Bayan starts at 8.30 AM, Eid prayer to start around 9:30 AM
Website: http://www.taiyabahmasjid.org/
Tel: 01204 535997

Cambridge - Abu Bakr Jamia Mosque
Venue: Kelsey Kerridge Sports Hall, Queen Anne Terrace, Cambridge CB1 1NA
Eid Prayer times: 9.30 AM and 10.15 AM
Website: http://www.cambridgemosque.com/

Dundee Central Mosque (DD1 5BZ)
Eid Prayer Times: Awaiting details
Visit Website: http://www.dundeecentralmosque.org.uk/

Edinburgh Central Mosque and Islamic Centre (EH8 9BT)
Eid Prayer times: 8:.15 AM and 9.30 AM
Website: http://www.edmosque.com/ / http://www.edmosquelibrary.com/

Other mosques in Edinburgh (taken from RadioRamadanEdinburgh)
Blackhall: 8.15 AM, 10.30 AM (Date of Eid will be Wednesday 17th November)
Roxburgh: Awaiting Conformation
Annandale Street: Awaiting Conformation
Polwarth: Awaiting 8.15 AM, 10.30 AM (Date of Eid will be Tuesday 16th November)
Portobello: Awaiting Conformation
Niddrie Masala: Awaiting Conformation
Shah Jalal: 9.30 AM and 10.30 AM (Date of Eid will be Tuesday 16th November)

Essex - Al-Ansar Islamic Education Centre (IG3 8TD )
Eid Prayer times: 8.00 AM, 9.00 AM and 10:00 AM
Website: http://www.masjidansar.com/

Exeter Mosque & Cultural Centre (EX4 6PG)
Eid Prayer times: 8.00 AM, and 10:00 AM
Website: http://www.exetermosque.org.uk/

Glasgow - Al-Furqan Mosque (G4 9AJ)
Eid Prayer times: 8.15 AM, and 10:00 AM.
Website: http://www.alfurqanmosque.com/

Glasgow - Central Mosque (G5 9TA)
Eid Prayer times: 8.15 AM, and 10:00 AM.
Website: http://www.centralmosque.co.uk/

Gloucester - Masjid e Noor (GL1 4LY)
Eid Prayer times: Bayan will start at 7.10 AM, Eid Salaah around 7.40 AM
Website: http://www.masjidenoor.org.uk/

Ipswich Mosque (32-36 Bond Street, IP4 1JB)
(also known as Ipswich & Suffolk Bangladeshi Muslim Community Centre and Mosque)
Prayer Times: 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM
Website: http://www.ipswichmosque.org/

Leeds Grand Mosque (LS6 1SN)
Eid Prayer times: 8.15 AM  and 9.15 AM
Website: http://www.leedsgrandmosque.com/

Leeds Makkah Masjid (LS6 1JY)
Note: This mosque will celebrate Eid on Wednesday, 17th November 2010.
The Khutba, sermon, will start before 9.00 AM.
Eid ul-Adha prayer will be held at 9.30 AM.
Website: http://www.makkahmasjid.co.uk/

Leicester Central Mosque and Islamic Centre (LE2 0JN)
Note: This mosque will celebrate Eid on Wednesday, 17th November 2010.
Eid Prayer Times
7:45 AM: Leiceter Mosque (Sutherland St)
9 AM : Leicester Central Mosque (Conduit St)
10 AM: Leiceter Mosque (Sutherland St)
Website: http://www.islamiccentre.org/

Leicester - Masjid Umar (Evington Muslim Centre, LE5 5PF)
Eid Prayer times:
First Jammat: Fajr: 7.00am followed by Bayan. Eid Salaah: 8.00 AM
Second Jamat: Bayan: 8.45 AM, Eid Salaah: 9.30 AM
Website: http://www.masjid-umar.org/

Leicester - Spinney Hill Park
Eid Prayer times: Awaiting Conformation

Leicester - Masjid Ali (LE5)
Eid Prayer times: Awaiting Conformation

Leicester - Masjid ul Imam il Bukhari (LE4 5LR)
Eid Prayer times: Awaiting Conformation

Leicester - Jame Masjid
Eid Prayer times: Awaiting Conformation

Leicester - Madani High School Masjid (LE5 5LL)
Eid Prayer times: Awaiting Conformation

Liverpool - Al Rahma Mosque (Hatherley Street, L8 2TJ)
Eid Prayer times: 8.00 AM and 9.00 AM and 10.00 AM
Website: http://www.alrahma-mosque.com/
Tel: 0151 709 2560

Maidenhead Mosque (SL6 8AW)
Note: This mosque will celebrate Eid on Wednesday, 17th November 2010.
Eid Prayer times:
1st Jamaat: 08:30 (brothers only)
2nd Jamaat: 09:30 (brothers only)
3rd Jamaat: 10:30 (upstairs hall reserved for sisters, brothers downstairs only)
Website: http://www.maidenheadmosque.org/

Manchester Central Mosque (also known as Victoria Park Mosque, M14 5RU)
Note: This mosque will celebrate Eid on Wednesday, 17th November 2010.Eid Prayer times: 8.30 AM, 9.30 AM and 10.30 AM
Website: http://www.manchestermosque.org/

Manchester - Shahjalal Mosque and Islamic Centre (2 Eileen Grove, Rusholme, M14 5WE)
Eid Prayer times: 8:30 AM, 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM.
Facebook: http://en-gb.facebook.com/group.php?gid=269498183944&v=wall

Manchester - Makki Masjid (Beresford Road, M13 OTA)
Eid Prayer times: 8:30 AM (urdu), 9:30 (English), 10:30 (Arabic)
Website: http://www.makkimasjid.org.uk/

Milton Keynes Jamee Masjid (Duncombe Streetm, MK2 2LY)
Eid Prayer times: 8:30 AM, 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM.

Website: http://www.mkjameemasjid.org/
Tel: 01908 367758

Oldham Muslim Centre (Neville Street, OL9 6LD)
Eid Prayer times: Awaiting Conformation
Website: http://www.oldhammuslimcentre.com/
Tel: 0161 633 7586

Newcastle Central Mosque (NE4 6SU)
Note: This mosque will celebrate Eid on Wednesday, 17th November 2010.
Eid Prayer times: 8.30 AM, and 9.30 AM
Website: http://www.newcastlecentralmosque.org.uk/

Nuneaton - Nuneaton Masjid (CV11 5RB)
Eid Prayer times: Awaiting Conformation
Website: http://www.nmsuk.org/

Reading - Central Jamme Mosque (Waylen Street, Reading, RG1 7UR)
Eid Prayer times: 8:30 AM, 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM
Website: http://www.bagr.co.uk/

Sheffield Islamic Centre - Madina Masjid Trust (Wolseley Rd, Sheffield, S8 OZU)
Eid Prayer times: Awaiting Conformation
Website: http://www.madinamasjid.org.uk/

Stoke On Trent - Markaz At-Tawheed (Rectory Road, ST1 4PW)
Eid Prayer times: 8:30 AM - Led by Imam Abdul-Hameed (TBC) inshAllah
Eid prayers will be performed outside on the car park.
Bring your OWN prayer mat
If it rains, the Eid prayer will be performed inside the Masjid
Website: http://www.markaztawheed.co.uk/

Woking: The Shah Jahan Mosque (149 Oriental Road, Woking GU22 7BA)
Note: This mosque will celebrate Eid on Wednesday, 17th November 2010.
Eid Prayer Times: 8:30am and at 10:30am
Website: http://www.shahjahanmosque.org.uk/

Wolverhampton Mosque Trust (197 Waterloo Road, WV1 4RA)
Eid Prayer times: Awaiting Conformation
Website: http://www.jamiamasjid.com/

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If there are any Eid prayer timetables out there please let me know simply by adding a comment below (no registration required) or email me at info@al-islam.co.uk.


Please ensure you also provide the date the Eid prayer will take place (as some mosque will celebrate Eid on Tuesday whilst others on Wednesday). Jazak'Allah Khair
Happy Eid. May ALLAH (swt) grant all of us happiness and forgiveness.
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Fasting on the Day of 'Arafah

Fasting on the Day of 'Arafah
By Tajuddin B. Shu'aib
Da`awah Enterprises International, LA, California. USA
Taken from sunnahonline.com


The ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah (the 12th and final month of the Islamic calendar) is the day of 'Arafah. It is the day when pilgrims stand on the plain of 'Arafah to pray. On this day, Muslims all over the world who do not witness the annual hajj should spend the day in fasting, in preparation for the three days festivity following 'Eid ul-Adha (the celebration marking the end of the hajj commemorating the Prophet Ibrâhîm's willingness of sacrifice).

Abû Hafsah, may Allâh be pleased with him, reported that the Prophet, upon whom be peace, said:
"Fasting on the day of 'Arafah absolves the sins for two years: the previous year and the coming year, and fasting on 'ashûra, (the tenth day of Muharram) atones for the sins of previous years." [Reported by all except al-Bukhârî and Tirmidhî]

In another saying the Prophet's wife Hafsah, may Allâh be pleased with her, said:
"Four things the Messenger of Allâh never neglected: Observing fast on the day of 'ashûra, 'Arafat, three days every month, and offering fajr sunnah prayers early in the morning." [Muslim]

These statements are proof that fasting on the ninth of Dhul-Hijjah, the day before 'Eid ul-Adha was a lifelong practice of the Prophet, peace be upon him, as his wife reported.

There are some reports that fasting is prohibited on the day of 'Arafah. However, it must be understood that this refers to a person performing the hajj. If a person is on the hajj, there is no fast for him or her on the day of 'Arafah. That is undoubtedly a blessing for him because of the hardships of the pilgrimage. In a saying reported by Umm al-Fadl, may Allâh be pleased with her, she said:

"The companions doubted whether the Prophet was fasting on 'Arafah or not. She decided to prove to them that he was not, so she said, 'I sent to him milk, which he drank while he was delivering the khutbah (sermon) on 'Arafah.' " [Recorded by al-Bukhârî]

Prohibiting the pilgrims from fasting on these days is a great mercy for them, for fasting will exert undue hardship on the person performing the hajj, while they are primarily concerned with their pilgrimage. Above all, the pilgrim would not be fasting anyway because he is travelling.

Importance of the first 10 days of Dhul-Hijjah

High Judiciary Council of Saudi Arabia announced that 1 Dhul-Hijjah will be on Sunday 7 November 2010, and the Muslims performing Hajj will be in 'Arafah on Monday 15 November 2010.

According to Fiqh Council of North America (FCNA), Eid-al-Adha in North America would be on the day after Hajj; and Hajj is announced to be on Monday, November 15, 2010, by Saudi Authorities.  - Source: Moonsighting.com.

Please check your local mosque for confirmation of dates.

Importance of the first 10 days of Dhul-Hijjah
Taken from yaseen.org

Thanks to Amin Rahman for forwarding this article

Why do they matter?
Even for those not performing the pilgrimage, Hajj, the first ten days of this month are considered very sacred and a time for increased reflection, seeking Allah's forgiveness, doing good and various other forms of worship.

Prophet Muhammad (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) has said about the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah: There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days." The people asked, "Not even Jihad for the sake of Allah?" He said, "Not even Jihad for the sake of Allah, except in the case of a man who went out to fight giving himself and his wealth up for the cause, and came back with nothing [Sahih al-Bukhar].

So sacred are the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah that Allah swears an oath by them when He says in the Quran: "By the dawn; by the ten nights" [al-Fajr 89:1-2]. Swearing an oath by something indicates its importance and great benefit.

What kinds of worship should be performed?
While any good deed done for the sake of Allah according to the way He approves will be rewarded immensely during the first ten days, InshaAllah, some of the more specific actions mentioned in the traditions of the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) are fasting and verbal Dhikr (remembrance) of Allah.

Fasting
In terms of fasting, it is particularly encouraged to fast on the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah, known in Arabic as Yawm Arafah. The Prophet used to fast on this day [an Nisai and Abu Dawud]. Fasting on this day will expiate a Muslim's sins for two years.

Abu Qatadah reported that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: Fasting the Day of Arafah will be credited with Allah by forgiving one's sins of the previous year and the following year.[Muslim]

One of the wives of the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: Allah’s Messenger used to fast the (first) nine days of Dhul-Hijjah, the day of Ashura, and three days of each month.[Sahih Sunan Abu Dawud #2129]

The day of Arafah is the day when the pilgrims stand in worship on the Mountain of Arafah. It is the best day of the Whole Year.

Fasting the day of Arafah expiates the [minor] sins of two years: a past one and a coming one. And fasting the day of Ashura expiates the sins of the past year. [Muslim]

There is no day on which Allah frees people from the Fire as He does no the day of Arafah. He comes close (to those standing on Arafah) and then revels before His angels, saying: "What are these people seeking?"[Muslim]

Dhikr
The verbal remembrance of Allah is another meritorious act during these first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah. "And mention the name of Allah on the appointed days"[12:28].

The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) encouraged Muslims to recite a lot of Tasbeeh (SubhanAllah), Tahmeed (Alhamdulillah) and Takbeer (Allahu-Akbar) during this time.The Takbeer may include the words "Allahu-Akbar, Allahu-Akbar, la ilaha ill-Allah; wa Allahu akbar wa Lillahil-hamd (Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great, there is no god but Allah; Allah is Most Great and to Allah be praise)," as well as other phrases.Men are encouraged to recite these phrases out loud and women quietly.

Ibn ‘Umar and Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) used to go out in the marketplace during the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah, reciting Takbeer, and the people would recite Takbeer individually when they heard them.

Good Deeds
Generally, all good deeds are rewarded highly at this blessed time. These actions include praying, reading Quran, making Du'a (supplication), giving in charity and being good to our families, and other voluntary (nafl) righteous deeds of worship. These are amongst the deeds that are multiplied in these days.

Seek Allah's Forgiveness and Repentance
In addition, seeking Allah's forgiveness (istighfar) and Tawbah (repentance) at this time is also encouraged. This means more than just a verbal statement of sorrow for past misdeeds. It also requires a firm resolution to avoid making the same mistakes in the future by giving up bad habits, and behavior while sincerely turning to Allah.

Sacrifice
The slaughtering of a sacrificial animal (Adhiyah) is also legislated for the Day of Sacrifice (10th) and the Days of Tashriq (11th, 12th and 13th).

The tenth of Dhul-Hijjah is Eid ul-Adha or the day of an-Nahr (slaughtering). It marks the conclusion of the major rites of Hajj, and commemorates Allah’s bounty on Prophet Ibrahim (alayhis salam), when He gave him a ram to sacrifice as ransom for his son.

It is repoted that Prophet Muhammad (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) slaughtered (sacrificed) two horned rams, black and white in colour, and said Takbeer (Allahu Akbar), and placed his foot on their sides (while slaughtering them). [Sahih al-Bukhari and Muslim]

'The day of al-Fitr [Eid ul-Fitr], the day of an-Nahr, and the days of Tashreeq are Eid days for us Muslims. They are days of eating and drinking.' [Ahmad, an-Nasa'i, sahih al-Jami' #8192]

What is Qurbani?

Eid-ul-Adha is almost here and it's is time to start preparing for Quarbani......

What is Qurbani?
Taken from Hidaya Foundation, USA

Qurbani during Eid-ul Adha is an act to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice as mentioned in the Quraan.

And, when he (his son) was old enough to walk with him, he said: "O my son! I have seen in a dream that I am slaughtering you (offer you in sacrifice to Allah), so look what you think!" He said: "O my father! Do that which you are commanded, Insha' Allah (if Allah will), you shall find me of As-Sabirin (the patient ones, etc.)." Then, when they had both submitted themselves (to the Will of Allah), and he had laid him prostrate on his forehead. And We called out to him: "O Abraham! You have fulfilled the dream (vision)!" Verily! Thus do We reward the Muhsinun (good-doers).Verily, that indeed was a manifest trial. And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice (i.e. a ram). And We left for him (a goodly remembrance) among generations (to come) in later times. (Sura Saffat, verses 102-108.)

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught Muslims the way of remembering the act of Ibrahim. He stayed 10 years in Madina and performed sacrifice at Eid-ul-Adha. (Tirmidhi)

Qurbani in Islamic terms means the slaughtering of an animal with the intention of getting close to Allah (SWT) by giving some or all of the meat to the poor and destitute. Animals that can be sacrificed are goats, cows and camels. They are sacrificed on the day of Eid-ul-Adha and also on the three days after (the 11, 12 and 13th of Dhulhijjah).

Benefits of QurbaniDoing charity to the poor by contributing and distributing the meat to them and the destitute. These acts would spread happiness and cheers amongst them especially during the festival of Eid-ul-Adha where Muslims are in the spirit of festivities.

Who should give Qurbani
Person who possesses Nisab (zakatable asset) should give Qurbani. It is not obligatory (fard) but is highly recommended (wajib)*, according to the Hanafi school of thought. However, Qurbani is a Sunnah act according to the Shafi, Hanbali, Maliki, and Jafari schools of thought.

Requirements of QurbaniThe animals to be slaughtered must be a goat, sheep, cattle (cow, ox, water buffalo), or camel. Goats and sheep have to be at least one year old.For cows the age must be at least two years old. Camels must be at least five years old. Goats and sheep count as one share per animal. Cattle and camels count as seven shares per animal.

They must be free from any form of handicap such as blind, sick, limp and undernourished. It also must be free of any defects such as a cut-off ear, tail, broken teeth,or broken horn. However, the goat/sheep can be used if only a few teeth are broken and most teeth are still intact. In addition, if its horn is broken midway and not from the root, it is persmissible to use such an animal. Injuries sustained during the qurbani do not invalidate the qurbani.

The animals must be slaughtered in the appropriate humane ways. It has to be done by a Muslim adhering to the Islamic way of slaughtering the animal.

Time of Qurbani
The time for Qurbani starts from sunrise after the performance of the Eidul Adha prayers which falls on the 10th of Zhulhijjah till the sunsets on the 12th of Zhulhijjah. The best time is to perform the acts of Qurbani immediately after the completion of the Eid-ul-Adha prayers.

It was reported that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:The first thing that we do on the day of Eid is to perform the prayers. Then we go home and carry out our Qurbani.Thus whoever does those acts has conformed to our sunnah. And for those who slaughtered before it, then the meat is for the family members and not as an act of Qurbani. (Sahih Al-Bukhari Volume 2, Book 15, Number 82)

Distribution of the Qurbani meat It is preferable that the meat from Qurbani be divided in three equal parts: one for the home, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor and needy. The meat from qurbani can be distributed to the poor, rich, Muslim or non-Muslim.

*Wajib, in the Hanafi school, is an obligation which is almost Fard, except that there is some (margin of uncertainty, which may occur in the form of counter-evidence, which suggests non-obligatory nature of the deed), and the scholars have therefore refrained from pronouncing a decisive verdict of "fard" on it. Nevertheless, for purposes of action, a wajib is treated like a fard, in that it should not be deliberately discarded, and it must be made up if it was missed for some reason. For this reason, 'wajib' of the Hanafi school is also known as "fard `amali" (i.e. an 'action fard') as opposed to fard i`tiqadi ('belief fard'), the normal fard, which one is required not only to act upon, but also to believe with full certainty and conviction that it is without doubt a duty.


Additional Information

(1) Concept of Animal Sacrifice in Islam - Islam Online 20/03/2005
My non-Muslim friends try to pick fault in Islam, saying that Muslims are no different to idol worshippers, who also offer sacrifices to their gods. Please clarify this point. Answer: Click Here!

(2) Donate Quarbani online: Muslim Aid

(3) Donate Quarbani online: Muslim Hands

Pics: Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations from around the World 2010

Taken from Daily Mail 11.09.2010

Packed: Muslims offer Eid al-Fitr prayers in front of the Taj Mahal in northern India

Devout: Worshippers in neat rows fill every part of the National Mosque in Dhaka, Bangladesh

In need of shade: Muslims shield their eyes from the sun at the King Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco

Mountain of prayers: Tens of thousands of Muslims attend the Eid al-Fitr prayers in Dashaping, near Lanzhou city, China's Western Gansu Province

For More Pics:

Awe-inspiring images as millions of Muslims across the world gather together to mark end of Ramadan - Daily Mail, 11/09.2010

It's the day of Eidul Fitr

It's the day of Eidul Fitr
Poem extracted from http://www.islam4kids.com/

All blessed and good thanks to Allaah!
That all our fasts are done!
And praised be Allaah Whom we worship
He - Most Great, the One!

So now our Day of ‘Eid is here
A time to have some fun!
With smiles and laughter, visits too
While children play and run!

Now in the morning, eat some dates
Our Prophet taught us how
It’s a Sunnah telling others
We’re not fasting now.

And wear your nicest clothes this day
It’s also Sunnah, see
And show the world that we are Muslims
Which we love to be!

Then time to go out for the Prayer
Please leave the car behind!
It’s better walking to the Prayer
And more reward we find!

So off we head to the Musalla
Gathering to pray
There we’ll see our Muslim brothers
Sisters too that day.

We hear the verses of Qur’aan
And glorify Allaah
What joy for every Muslims’ heart!
All praise is for Allaah!

Then time to hear the khutbah speech
And more reminders here
Advising us to love Allaah
- To hope in Him and fear.

Then off we trek back home again
With family and friends
And taste more good and yummy food
Before the ‘Eid day ends.

So what a blessing from Allaah!
His ‘Eid and guidance too
Without Allaah’s perfect Grace
We’d not know what to do!

But Allaah sent a mercy to us
That’s His Messenger, see
Through him Allaah showed the way
Upon that we must be.

That way is only al-Islaam
Just like our Prophet taught
So let’s be strong upon that way
-The Sunnah that he brought.

And let’s have Taqwaa from our fasts
That’s the goal you see
Obey Allaah just as He loves
You and also me!

So great, big thanks go to Allaah
Who guided us indeed!
And last of all I’d like to say…

Have a lovely EID!

Please check the following Useful links on this site..
* Preperation for Eid-ul-Fitr
* Zakat-ul-Fitr & Zakat
* Note: Above picture was taken from an eCard selected from islamicity

We at Ramadan4u wish Muslims all over the world happiness, prosperity and all things good; now and forever - Eid Mubarak everyone!

Eid-ul-Fitr

Taken from missionislam & islamicity.com

Eid

Anas (ra), a companion of prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) reported that when the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) migrated from Makkah to Madinah, the people of Madinah used to have two festivals. On those two days they had carnivals and festivity. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) asked the Ansaar (the Muslims of Madinah) about it. They replied that before Islam they used to have carnivals on those two joyous days. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) told them: 'Instead of those two days, Allah has appointed two other days which are better, the days of Eid-al-Fitr and Eid-al-Adha.' (Hadith)

EID-UL-FITR is celebrated on the first day of Shaw'waal, at the completion of Ramadan. Shaw'waal is the 10th month of the Islamic calendar. The Eid-al-Fitr is a very joyous day; it is a true Thanksgiving Day for the believing men and women. On this day Muslims show their real joy for the health, strength and the opportunities of life, which Allah has given to them to fulfill their obligation of fasting and other good deeds during the blessed month of Ramadan.

Playing, recreation, and eating on the day of Eid:
These are permissible as log as they stay within the acceptable bounds of Islam. Anas said: When the Prophet, sallaallahu `alayhe wa sallam, came to Madinah, they had two days for amusement. The Prophet, sallaallahu `alayhe wa sallam, has exchanged these days for two better days:the day of breaking the fast and the day of sacrifice. (Related by An-Nasa'e and Ibn Hibban)

Taking women and children to the prayer area:
The Prophet sallaallahu `alayhe wa sallam, used to take his wives and daugthers to the two Eids. Umm Atiyah said: "We were ordered to go out with the single and menstruating women to the two Eids in order to witness the good and the supplications of the Muslims. The menstruating women though would stay away from the prayer area." (Related by al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Going to the prayer area:
The Prophet, sallaallahu `alayhe wa sallam, used to go to the prayer area by walking. Jaber narrated: "On the days of Eid, the Prophet, sallaallahu `alayhe wa sallam, would go to the prayer area by one route and come back by another route." (Related by al-Bukhari)

Eating before going to the prayer area:
Since Eid al-Fitr is the day on which Muslims break their Ramadhan fast, it is preferable to eat before going to the Eid prayer. It is a Sunnah of the Prophet, sallaallahu `alayhe wa sallam, to eat an odd number of dates before going to pray Salat al-Eid. Anas reported: "The Prophet, sallaallahu `alayhe wa sallam, would not go out on the day of Eid al-Fitr without eating an odd number of dates."(Related by al-Bukhari.)

Preparation for Eid prayer:
It is preferred to make Ghusl (take a bath), wear one's best clothes and, for men, to put perfume before going to Salat al-Eid. Ibn Al-Qayyim said: "The Prophet, sallaallahu `alayhe wa sallam, used to wear his best clothes for the Eid prayers and eh had clothes that he reserved for the two Eids and Jumu'ah."

Making Takbeer:
Takbeer starts from the nght of Eid's eve until the Imam comes ot to start the prayer. Allah says (S2 A185): "You should complete the prescribed period and then you should glorify Allah (i.e., say Takbeer) for having guided you so that yo may be grateful to Him." The form of takbeer is related by `Umar and Ibn Mas`ud:
"Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La illaha illallah.
Allahu Akbar. Allahu Akbar wa lillahil-hamd."

Here is an eid_takbeer
(It's so beautiful to recite on eid day)

Structure of Eid prayer:
Eid prayer is wajib (strongly recommended, just short of obligatory). It consists of two Rakaat (units) with six or thirteen additional Takbirs. It must be offered in congregation. The prayer is followed by the Khutbah. The Khutbah is part of the worship and listening to it is Sunnah. During the Khutbah, the Imam must remind the community about its responsibilities and obligations towards Allah, fellow Muslims and the fellow human beings. The Imam must encourage the Muslims to do good and ward off evil. The Muslim community must also be directed to the state of the community and the Ummah at large and the feelings of sacrifice and Jihaad should be aroused in the community. At the conclusion of the prayer the Muslims should convey greetings to each other, give reasonable gifts to the youngsters and visit each other at their homes. Muslims should also take this opportunity to invite their non-Muslims neighbors, co-workers, classmates and business acquaintances to Eid festivities to expose them to Islam and Muslim culture.

Congratulating each other:
It has been narrated that when the Prophet's companions met each other on the Eid day, they would say to each other: "May Allah accept from us and from you." (Related by Ahmad.)



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## Just a reminder: Don't forget to pay Jakat ul Fitre before the Eid Jammat.
More info: Zakat & Zakat Ul Fitr

Eid Mubarak!

Eid ul-Adha

‘EEDUL ADH‘HÃ
By Shaykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat
Taken from idauk.org

First Ten Days of Zul Hijjah
Ibne Abbaas radhiyallahu anhumaa relates that the Prophet sallallahu alayhi wasallam said:

“Good deeds performed on other days are not superior to those performed on these (first ten days of Zul Hijjah).” The companions radhiyallahu anhum inquired: “Not even Jihaad?” He replied: “Not even Jihaad, except for that person who goes out putting himself and his wealth in danger and does not return with anything.” (Bukhaari)

Night of ‘Eed
The nights of both ‘Eeds are described in the hadeeth as amongst the great and sacred nights in the Muslim calendar. To remain awake on the nights of ‘Eed and perform ibaadah is a source of great virtue and reward.

Mu’aaz Ibne Jabal radhiyallahu anhu relates that Rasoolullah sallallahu alayhi wasallam said:
“Jannah is waajib (incumbent) for those who stay awake with the intention of making ibaadah on the following nights: 8th & 9th, the night of ‘Eedul Adh‘haa (10th of Zul Hijjah), the night of ‘Eedul Fitr and the night of the 15th of Sha’baan.” (Targheeb)

Qurbaani
Qurbaani is a practice commanded by Allah:
…so turn in prayer towards your lord and sacrifice (animals). (108:2)

Aa’ishah radhiyallahu anhaa said:
“There is nothing more dearer to Allah during the days of Qurbaani than the sacrificing of animals. The sacrificed animal shall come on the Day of Judgement with its horns, hair and hooves (to be weighed). The sacrifice is accepted by Allah before the blood reaches the ground. Therefore sacrifice with an open heart. (Tirmizi, Ibne Majah)

Sunnahs on the Day of ‘Eed
1. To rise early.
2. To clean the teeth with miswaak.
3. To have a masnoon bath.
4. To dress in one’s best garments in an Islaamic manner.
5. To use ‘Itr
6. To avoid eating before ‘Eed Salaat
7. To go early for ‘Eed Salaat.
8. To go walking for ‘Eed Salaat.
9. To read the Takbiraat of Tashreeq in a loud voice while going for ‘Eed Salaat.
10. To use different routes to and from the place of ‘Eed Salaat.
11. To eat the meat of Qurbaani (sacrifice) of ones own offering, after the ‘Eedul Adh‘haa salaat.

Mas’alah:
It is haraam to fast on the 10th, 11th, 12th, and 13th Zul Hijjah, (i.e. ‘Eed day and three days after) and the day of ‘Eedul Fitr.

The Method of ‘Eed Salaat
1. Make niyyah of performing two raka’at waajib of ‘Eedul Adh‘haa behind the imaam with six waajib takbeer.
2. The first takbeer in the first raka’at is the takbeer-e-tahreemah which is followed by three waajib takbeer. Raise your hands to the ears in all four takbeer (saying the takbeer). However, after the first takbeer fold the hands under the naval and read thanaa (subhaanakallaahumma). Thereafter, in the following two takbeer raise the hands up to the ears and drop them on the sides and after the fourth takbeer fold again.
3. The imaam will recite the soorah Faatihah and another soorah and go into rukoo and sajdah etc. as usual.
4. In the second raka’at, after the recitation and before rukoo another three takbeer will be called. In all three takbeer raise the hands to the ears and drop them on the sides and go into rukoo when the fourth takbeer is called.

NOTE:
Four takbeer are said together in each raka’at; at the beginning of the first raka’at and before going into rukoo in the second raka’at. The easy method of remembering when to drop the hands and when to fold is mentioned hereunder:

(a) Remember the following words: Fold, drop, drop, fold, for the first raka’at; drop, drop, drop, rukoo, for the second raka’at.

(b) Or keep the following general rule in mind: when there is something to be recited after a takbeer, the hands should be folded and when nothing is to be recited the hands are to be dropped to the sides.

Mas’alah:
It is makrooh to offer any Salaat, in the masjid where the ‘Eed Salaat is to be performed, before or after the ‘Eed Salaat. Hence, we should not perform nafl Salaat such as Ishraaq on ‘Eed day.

Mas’alah:
It is also makrooh to perform any Salaat at home before the ‘Eed Salaat, but it is not makrooh after Salaat.

Mas’alah:
If anyone missed the ‘Eed Salaat then he cannot offer it individually.

Mas’alah:
Khutbah after the ‘Eed Salaat is sunnah. However, the listening of the khutbah is waajib.

Mas’alah:
It is waajib to say the takbeer of tashreeq after the ‘Eedul Adh‘haa, according to some ulamaa; therefore one should recite it after the salaat.

Mas’alah:
If anyone joins the ‘Eed salaat after the imaam has said the three takbeer in the first raka’at he should say his three takbeer immediately. If he joins while the imaam is in ruku, then if he feels and has strong hope that he will say three takbeer and join the imaam in ruku’ then he should complete the takbeer before going into ruku. Otherwise he should join the imaam in ruku and say the three takbeer instead of the tasbeeh of ruku.

NOTE:
Whilst saying the takbeer in ruku, he should not raise his hands.

NOTE:
If the imaam rises from ruku; before his takbeer are completed, he should also rise with the imaam and his takbeer will be remitted for him.

Mas’alah:
If anyone missed the first raka’at and joined the imaam in the second raka’at he should say the three takbeer of the the first raka’at after the recitation when he gets up to complete the missed raka’at.

Mas’alah:
If anyone joined the imaam in the second raka’at after ruku, them he should perform two raka’ats as mentioned above.

The Fiqh of the Eid al-Adha Sacrifice (udhiya/qurbani)

Taken from Sunni Path

Please state the The Fiqh of the Eid al-Adha Sacrifice (udhiya/qurbani).
Answered by Shaykh Hamza Karamali, SunniPath Academy Teacher

Q. What is the ruling of the sacrifice?
A. The slaughter of 'Eid al-Adha (in Arabic: udhiya; in Urdu: qurbani) is a confirmed sunna (sunna mu'akkada) and only becomes obligatory if one vows to perform it by saying, for example, 'I hereby owe Allah to perform a sacrifice,' or 'I hereby owe Allah to sacrifice this animal,' or if one says something like, 'This animal is my sacrifice.' Not performing the sacrifice is disliked (makruh), because some scholars (such as the Hanafis) say that it is obligatory. (al-Yaqut al-Nafis fi Madhhab Ibn Idris, 204; Tuhfat al-Muhtaj, 9.346)

Q. What if I can't afford it?
A. The sacrifice is only a confirmed sunna for morally responsible (mukallaf) Muslims who are able to sacrifice. Able to sacrifice means that they own enough to buy a sacrificial animal plus enough to fulfill their own needs and the needs of everyone they are obliged to support on the day of 'Eid and the three days that follow it. It is not required from a Muslim who is not morally responsible, such as a child or someone who is insane. (I'anatu'l-Talibin, 2.330)

Q. Is it a confirmed sunna for everyone in the family?
A. No. The confirmed-ness (ta'akkud) of the sunna is of collective nature ('ala'l-kifaya). If the head of the household performs it, it is no longer a confirmed sunna for everyone he is obliged to support (such as his wife and children), although if they choose to perform it anyway, it is praiseworthy. (I'anatu'l-Talibin, 2.330; al-Yaqut al-Nafis fi Madhhab Ibn Idris, 204)

Q. What kind of animals can be slaughtered?
A. It is only valid to slaughter camels, cattle, sheep, or goats. Camels must be over five years old, cows and goats must be over two years old, and sheep must be over one year old. Sheep can, however, also be slaughtered after six months if their front teeth fall out. It does not matter whether the animals are male or female; both are valid to slaughter.

Camels and cows fulfill the sunna for seven people and can be shared among them. Sheep and goats cannot be shared by multiple people, since they only fulfill the sunna for a single person.
The animals must be free of any defect that diminishes the quality of their meat. For example, it is not valid to slaughter animals that are lame, blind, insane, or sick. See Reliance, j14.2 for a more detailed description of defects that make the animal invalid to slaughter for the 'Eid sacrifice.

(Reliance, 14.2; I'anatu'l-Talibin, 2.331; al-Yaqut al-Nafis fi Madhhab Ibn Idris, 204-205; Mughni'l-Muhtaj, 4.379)

Q. Do I have to slaughter myself?
A. It is sunna for males to slaughter themselves if they can slaughter well, although it is valid to commission (tawkeel) someone else to do it on their behalf. If one cannot slaughter well, or if one is a female, it is sunna to commission someone else to perform it on one's behalf. If one commissions someone else to do it, it is sunna (but not necessary) to be present and witness the actual slaughter.

The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said to the Lady Fatima (Allah be pleased with her), 'Stand up to your sacrificial animal (udhiya) and witness it, for at the first drop of its blood, all your previous sins will be forgiven.' (Hakim)

It is best to commission a Muslim who knows the fiqh of the sacrifice.

If one slaughters oneself, one must intend at the time of slaughtering that this is the sunna sacrifice of 'Eid al-Adha. If one commissions someone else to slaughter, one can intend when one authorizes them to slaughter on one's behalf.
(Mughni'l-Muhtaj, 4.378; Reliance, j14.3-j14.4; I'anatu'l-Talibin, 2.335)

Q. Can I commission a trustworthy Muslim to slaughter on my behalf in another country?
A. It is valid to give someone money and commission him to buy an animal and slaughter it in a country other than where one is living (I'anatu'l-Talibin, 2.335). This is discussed in more detail in a separate answer posted on this list.

Q. When is it valid to slaughter?
A. The time for slaughtering enters after sunrise once enough time has passed to perform two short rak'as (i.e. consisting of only the integrals) and two short khutbas (i.e., consisting of only the integrals). Before this time, it is not valid to slaughter. It remains valid to slaughter until sunset on the 13th of Dhu'l-Hijja. It is disliked to slaughter during the night (al-Yaqut al-Nafis fi Madhhab Ibn Idris, 205; Mughni'l-Muhtaj, 4.383).

Q. What do I do with the meat?
A. If one made the sacrifice obligatory upon oneself by vowing it, one must give away the entire animal in charity (including the hide, horns, and hooves) and it is forbidden (haram) for one to eat from it.

If the sacrifice was a sunna sacrifice (meaning that one did not vow it), it is permissible to eat from the meat of the sacrifice, although some of it (meaning any non-trivial (ghayr tafih) amount) must be given away in charity. It best to give all of the meat away in charity except for a few morsels (not more than three) that one eats oneself; it is sunna that these morsels be from the liver (kabid). It is common practice in many Muslim lands to give one-third of the meat in charity, one-third to wealthy Muslims, and to keep one third for oneself, and this is acceptable.

To give in charity means to give the meat to someone who is poor (faqeer) or short of money (miskeen) as defined in the chapter of zakat (see Reliance, h8.8, h8.11). It is not necessary to give to more than one person. The meat must be given uncooked.

It is invalid to sell any of the animal'even its hide. If the sacrifice was not obligatory, then one may give the hide away in charity or as a gift or use it oneself, but one may not sell it. It is not permissible to destroy it (itlaf) either. It is not permissible to give it to the butcher as payment for his slaughtering, although one may give it to him as a gift (if the sacrifice not obligatory, it is only be permissible to give it to him if he is poor or short of money). It is unlawful (haram) to give or feed any of the sacrificial animal to a non-Muslim.
(al-Yaqut al-Nafis fi Madhhab Ibn Idris, 206; Tuhfat al-Muhtaj + Hashiyat 'Abd al-Hamid, 9.363-365; Hashiyat al-Bajuri 'ala Ibn Qasim al-Ghazzi, 2.324).

Q. Are there any other recommended measures related to the sacrifice?
A. Yes. It is disliked (makruh) for the one who intends to perform the sacrifice to remove any hair or nails from his body from the 1st of Dhu'l-Hijja until he performs the sacrifice. This hair includes all the hair of the body, whether it is from the head, beard, moustache, armpits, private parts or anywhere else. Some of the Shafi'is even said that to remove one's hair or nails during this period is forbidden (haram), although this is not the relied-upon position of the school.
This ruling is taken from the hadith of the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace),
'When you see the moon of Dhu'l-Hijjah, and you intend to perform the sacrifice, then don't remove (lit. 'touch') any of your hair or nails.' (Muslim)

(Mughni'l-Muhtaj, 4.378; al-Minhaj Sharh Sahih Muslim ibn al-Hajjaj, 7.139; Reliance, j14.1)

And Allah knows best.

Hamza Karamali


Further Reading:
SunniPath - The Fiqh of Ritual Slaughter (Udhiya/Qurbani)

Scientists Prove that Islamic slaughter of Animals is healthier

Scientists Prove that Islamic slaughter of Animals is healthier
Taken from Darul Ihsan Islamic Services Centre, South Africa

The following is a summary of research done by Professor Schultz and his colleague Dr.Hazim of the Hanover University, Germany about the methods of animal slaughter and their merits.

The conclusion drawn was that:-Halaal slaughter is the humane method providing hygienic meat to the consumer.

Al Shaddad Bin Aous (Radhiyallaahu Anhu) has quoted this tradition of the Holy Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) "Allah calls for mercy in everything, so be merciful when you kill and when you slaughter".

"Sharpen your blade to relieve its pain." Many allegations have been made that Islamic slaughter is not humane to animals. However, Professor Schultz and his colleague Dr. Hazim of the Hanover University,Germany, proved through an experiment, using an Electroencephalogram (EEG - An instrument that records the electrical activity of the brain) and Electrocardiogram (ECG - An instrument that records the electrical current generated by heartbeat) that:

1. Islamic slaughter is the humane method of slaughter; and,
2. Captive bolt stunning, practised by the western method, causes severe pain to the animal.

Experimental Details
Several electrodes were surgically implanted at various points on the skull of all animals, touching the surface of the brain. The animals were allowed to recover for several weeks. Some animals were slaughtered by making a swift, deep incision with a sharp knife on the neck cutting the jugular veins and carotid arteries of both sides; and also the trachea and oesophagus i.e. the Halaal method. Some animals were stunned using a captive bolt pistol slaughter by the western method. During the experiment, EEG and ECG were used on all animals to record the condition of the brain and heart during the course of slaughter and stunning.

Results and Discussion:

Halaal Method
The first three seconds from the time of Islamic slaughter as recorded on the EEG did not show any change from the graph before slaughter , thus indicating that the animal did not feel any pain during or immediately after the incision. For the following 3 seconds, the EEG recorded a condition of deep sleep -unconsciousness. This is due to a large quantity of blood gushing out from the body. After the above mentioned 6 seconds, the EEG recorded zero level, showing no feeling of pain at all. As the brain message (EEG)dropped to zero level, the heart was still pounding and the body convulsing vigorously (a reflex action of the spinal cord) driving maximum blood from the body, resulting in hygienic meat for the consumer.

Western method by Captive Bolt Stunning
Reference: http://www.grandin.com/humane/captive.bolt.html

The animals were apparently unconscious soon after stunning. EEG showed severe pain immediately after stunning. The hearts of the animal stunned by C.B.P. stopped beating as compared to those of the animals slaughtered according to the Halal method resulting in the retention of more blood in the meat. This in turn is unhygienic for the consumer.


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Useful Reading:

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (UK) - Animal welfare: Qurbani/Udhia

Pic: Day of Eid-ul-Fitr in Makkah 2008

Pictures taken from Daily Mail, 30th September 2008

It's one of the most awe-inspiring sights in religion.

Hundreds of thousands of Muslims circled the Kaaba inside and outside the Grand Mosque in the Saudi Arabian city of Makkah this morning.