Various sightings from members of Moonsighting.com UK have stated that the month of Muharram 1432 AH will start from Tuesday 7 December 2010 (i.e. sunset of the previous day), which means Ashura (10 Muharram) will be on Thursday 16 December 2010), Insha-Allah.
The Ninth and Tenth day of Muharram… a Blessed Fast
Taken from islamonline.net
Q: What is so important about 9th and 10th of Muharram, known to be Tasu`ah and `Ashura'? Why do Muslims fast on these days?
Answered by Shahul Hameed
Thank you for your question.
Muharram is the first month in the Muslim lunar calendar, known as the Hijrah calendar. This month is marked by the fasting recommended for Muslims on the 9th (Tasu`ah) and 10th (`Ashura').
These fasts are not obligatory like the fast of Ramadan. Yet, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) has laid great emphasis on them, as his hadith shows.
For example, upon his arrival in Madinah, he found the Jews observing fast on the day of `Ashura' When asked about this, they said:
"On this day Allah saved the Children of Israel from their enemy (in Egypt) and so Prophet Musa [Moses] fasted on this day giving thanks to Allah."
Prophet Muhammad responded:
"We have more right and closer connection with Musa (peace be upon him) than you have." So, God’s messenger observed fast on the day of `Ashura' and taught us to observe it. (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
The Prophet also said:
"If I survive till next year, I will definitely observe fast on the 9th of Muharram [as well].” (Reported by Muslim.)
As it is evident from the above hadiths, the two days are important to us. This is because we Muslims are the real inheritors of the tradition of Moses, a great prophet of Islam. In fact, the Qur'an narrates the story in details, as to how Allah delivered Prophet Moses and the Children of Israel from the tyranny of the Pharaoh and his hordes.
Moses is one of five great prophets known to be Ulul-`Azm (The Resolute Ones). These are Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus and Muhammad (peace be upon them all), as mentioned in the Qur'an. So there is no wonder that the day of `Ashura' that commemorates the liberation of the Children of Israel, is important for the followers of the final Prophet too.
Thus, fasting on the day of `Ashura' is a sunnah of Prophet Muhammad. A believer who follows the Prophet (peace be upon him) in this regard gets a great reward, as in following him in other aspects of sunnah. Fasting day of `Ashura', expiates for the sins of the past year.
The Prophet said,
"Fasting the day of `Ashura' (is of great merits), I hope that Allah will accept it as an expiation for (the sins committed in) the previous year" (Muslim).
It is noteworthy in this connection that there are some unfounded ideas about `Ashura', prevailing among some Muslims. For example, this is like the belief that the Judgment Day will take place on the Day of `Ashura'. Such fanciful beliefs have no basis in authentic Islamic sources.
There is also the idea that the importance of `Ashura' is due to the martyrdom of the Prophet’s grandson Al-Husain (may Allah be pleased with him) at Karbala. This was a real tragic episode in the history of Islam.
Yet, to attribute the sanctity of `Ashura' to the martyrdom of Al-Husain is wrong. This, as it was the Prophet himself who established its significance for Muslims, long before the birth of his grandson.
The same idea is associated also with the belief that the month of Muharram is an unlucky month! So, some people avoid holding marriage ceremonies throughout this month. This is definitely a superstition opposed to the teachings of Islam.
We may notice on these days, people organizing elaborate lamentation and mourning ceremonies in memory of the martyrdom at Karbala. There is no doubt that the martyrdom of Karbala was one of the most tragic events in our history, as mentioned before. Yet, the processions and pageants held in that connection are far from Islamic; rather they are redolent of the jahiliyya (mental ignorance of truth) customs.
The Qur'an and Prophetic Sunnah teach us that in the event of a person’s death, we should be patiently forbearing and say: *{to Allah we belong and to Him is our return).}* (Al Baqarah 2:156).
So, there is no question of “celebrating” such an occasion. In fact, it is a practice that crept into the community after the time of Prophet Muhammad and has no basis in the Qur'an and Sunnah.
We as Muslims are enjoined to follow the explicit commands and prohibitions of the Qur'an and Sunnah in our life. Let us pray to Allah Almighty to help us all and guide us to be His sincerely obedient servants.
Showing posts with label Fasting. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Fasting. Show all posts
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Sunday, November 14, 2010
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.
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.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
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]
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]
Friday, September 10, 2010
Fasting Six Days of the Month of Shawwal
Taken from islamonline.net
Q: What is the significance of fasting in the month of Shawwal?
Answered by Mufti: Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi,
President of the Fiqh Council of North America (29/Oct/2006)
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.
Fasting six days of the month of Shawwal is mentioned in a Prophetic hadith. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is reported to have said:
"Whosoever fasted in Ramadan and then followed up with six fasting days of Shawwal, it is like fasting every day." (Muslim)
The meaning is that the reward is like the reward of a person who is always in fast every day of his/her life. [Note: some scholars may interpret this as like fasting for the whole year rather than whole lifetime]
It is highly recommended to fast six days of the month of Shawwal, but it is not obligatory.
Those who want to fast can fast after `Eid Al-Fitr any six days during Shawwal.
It is not required to fast six days continuously without any interruption. One can fast according to convenience any time during the month.
-------------------------------------
In additon to the above - just to let you know that you can use normal prayer timestables to indicate the start of fasting (make it ten minutes before Fajr) and when to break the fast (when it is time for Magrib).
Further reading:
The Six Days of Shawwal: Click Here!
Taken from Stand For Islam Newsletter, Sept 2010
Q: What is the significance of fasting in the month of Shawwal?
Answered by Mufti: Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi,
President of the Fiqh Council of North America (29/Oct/2006)
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.
Fasting six days of the month of Shawwal is mentioned in a Prophetic hadith. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is reported to have said:
"Whosoever fasted in Ramadan and then followed up with six fasting days of Shawwal, it is like fasting every day." (Muslim)
The meaning is that the reward is like the reward of a person who is always in fast every day of his/her life. [Note: some scholars may interpret this as like fasting for the whole year rather than whole lifetime]
It is highly recommended to fast six days of the month of Shawwal, but it is not obligatory.
Those who want to fast can fast after `Eid Al-Fitr any six days during Shawwal.
It is not required to fast six days continuously without any interruption. One can fast according to convenience any time during the month.
-------------------------------------
In additon to the above - just to let you know that you can use normal prayer timestables to indicate the start of fasting (make it ten minutes before Fajr) and when to break the fast (when it is time for Magrib).
Further reading:
The Six Days of Shawwal: Click Here!
Taken from Stand For Islam Newsletter, Sept 2010
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Power of Dua at the time of Iftaar
Taken from yanabi.com, posted by ayaz_cool
Once Moosa ( alayhis 'salam) asked Allah Taala: O Allah! You have granted me the honor and privilege of talking to you directly, Have you given this privilege to any other person?
Allah Taala replied, O Moosa during the last period I am going to send an ummat, who will be the Ummat of Mohammed ( Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) with dry lips, parched tongues, emaciated body with eyes sunken deep into their sockets, with livers dry and stomachs suffering the pangs of hunger- will call out to me (in dua) they will be much much closer to me than you O Moosa! while you speak to me there are 70000 veils between you and me but at the time of iftaar there will not be a single veil between me and the fasting Ummati of Mohammed ( Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam)
O Moosa I have taken upon myself the responsibility that at the time of iftaar I will never refuse the dua of a fasting person!
KEEP YOURSELF OCCUPIED WITH DUA BEFORE BREAKING YOUR FAST... Never underestimate the power of Dua!
Once Moosa ( alayhis 'salam) asked Allah Taala: O Allah! You have granted me the honor and privilege of talking to you directly, Have you given this privilege to any other person?
Allah Taala replied, O Moosa during the last period I am going to send an ummat, who will be the Ummat of Mohammed ( Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) with dry lips, parched tongues, emaciated body with eyes sunken deep into their sockets, with livers dry and stomachs suffering the pangs of hunger- will call out to me (in dua) they will be much much closer to me than you O Moosa! while you speak to me there are 70000 veils between you and me but at the time of iftaar there will not be a single veil between me and the fasting Ummati of Mohammed ( Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam)
O Moosa I have taken upon myself the responsibility that at the time of iftaar I will never refuse the dua of a fasting person!
KEEP YOURSELF OCCUPIED WITH DUA BEFORE BREAKING YOUR FAST... Never underestimate the power of Dua!
Monday, August 2, 2010
What type of dates are you breaking your fast with?
With the exception of Ajwa dates (those favoured by the Prophet Muhammad - P.B.U.H), Medjool dates are probably the most expensive but also the most delicious dates in the world. They stand out compared to other dates mainly because of their size.
Last Ramadan I ventured to a halal grocery store (in a predominantly Muslim area) and was about to purchase some of these delicious dates until I saw the sign "produce of Israel" on the box – I was really angered and left the store immediately. Again a couple of days ago I ventured to a local supermarket and noticed the same dates – this time labelled produce of West Bank - again I did not purchase these dates.
The reason for this is mainly due to the fact that produce from Israel (fruit and vegetables) such as dates are mainly produced in occupied Palestinian land such as the West Bank (these are some of the most beautiful and fertile lands in the Arab world) – but most of these lands are run by illegal settlers who employ Palestinians with some of the harshest working conditions. Investigative reporting by Israeli newspapers such as Haaretz had exposed these findings.
The European Union and some of our largest supermarkets in Europe turn a blind eye towards this. An even greater worry is the ignorance set by owners of halal grocery chains who in one way during the month of Ramadan might have a collection box from charities to help oppressed Palestinians yet at the same time will be financing their oppressors by selling profitable crops such as dates from Israel and occupied Palestine in their shops!
It’s time for an ethical campaign – a campaign on the type of food we buy. Innovative Minds and the Islamic Human Rights Commission are calling on campaigners to create awareness in their communities about the boycott of Israeli goods, and in particular Israeli dates, this Ramadan.
BOYCOTT ISRAELI DATES
Most of the Israeli date crop – up to 80%, is exported, mainly to Europe where it has around 10% market share. In 2005, dates were Israel’s leading fruit export. The two major Israeli companies involved are Agrexco and Hadi-klaim.
Agrexco, half owned by the Israeli government, handles 60-70% of all goods produced in the illegal Settlements. Its dates have brand names Carmel, Jordan Plains and Jordan Valley.
Hadiklaim sells 65 percent of the all dates produced in Israel. Its dates have brand names King Solomon and Jordan River. They also supply Israeli dates to supermarkets and retail chains who market them under their own brand names. These include Marks & Spencer's, Sainsbury's, Tesco's, and Waitrose.
In order to educate our communities on this issue two videos had been produced by Innovative Minds (see below). There are also leaflets and posters available from their website. Click here http://inminds.co.uk/boycott-israeli-dates.php
Boycott Israeli Dates 1 of 2
Boycott Israeli Dates 2 of 2
If you find this information useful please pass this to other brothers and sisters. It’s time to start campaigning with our wallets – its time we stopped trading with these oppressors. Make sure you look before you buy. If you find a halal grocery store that sells dates from Israel then notify them of their error and if they don’t change then find alternative places to shop.
If you want to break your fast with delicious dates from Palestine as well as sample other produce then there are various shops listed on the Zaytoun.org website. Zaytoun is an ethical business established to support marginalized farming communities in Palestine. Zaytoun helps Palestinion farmers access the UK market and ensures that the money made from sales goes back to the right people.
Last Ramadan I ventured to a halal grocery store (in a predominantly Muslim area) and was about to purchase some of these delicious dates until I saw the sign "produce of Israel" on the box – I was really angered and left the store immediately. Again a couple of days ago I ventured to a local supermarket and noticed the same dates – this time labelled produce of West Bank - again I did not purchase these dates.
The reason for this is mainly due to the fact that produce from Israel (fruit and vegetables) such as dates are mainly produced in occupied Palestinian land such as the West Bank (these are some of the most beautiful and fertile lands in the Arab world) – but most of these lands are run by illegal settlers who employ Palestinians with some of the harshest working conditions. Investigative reporting by Israeli newspapers such as Haaretz had exposed these findings.
The European Union and some of our largest supermarkets in Europe turn a blind eye towards this. An even greater worry is the ignorance set by owners of halal grocery chains who in one way during the month of Ramadan might have a collection box from charities to help oppressed Palestinians yet at the same time will be financing their oppressors by selling profitable crops such as dates from Israel and occupied Palestine in their shops!
It’s time for an ethical campaign – a campaign on the type of food we buy. Innovative Minds and the Islamic Human Rights Commission are calling on campaigners to create awareness in their communities about the boycott of Israeli goods, and in particular Israeli dates, this Ramadan.
BOYCOTT ISRAELI DATES
Most of the Israeli date crop – up to 80%, is exported, mainly to Europe where it has around 10% market share. In 2005, dates were Israel’s leading fruit export. The two major Israeli companies involved are Agrexco and Hadi-klaim.
Agrexco, half owned by the Israeli government, handles 60-70% of all goods produced in the illegal Settlements. Its dates have brand names Carmel, Jordan Plains and Jordan Valley.
Hadiklaim sells 65 percent of the all dates produced in Israel. Its dates have brand names King Solomon and Jordan River. They also supply Israeli dates to supermarkets and retail chains who market them under their own brand names. These include Marks & Spencer's, Sainsbury's, Tesco's, and Waitrose.
In order to educate our communities on this issue two videos had been produced by Innovative Minds (see below). There are also leaflets and posters available from their website. Click here http://inminds.co.uk/boycott-israeli-dates.php
Boycott Israeli Dates 1 of 2
Boycott Israeli Dates 2 of 2
If you find this information useful please pass this to other brothers and sisters. It’s time to start campaigning with our wallets – its time we stopped trading with these oppressors. Make sure you look before you buy. If you find a halal grocery store that sells dates from Israel then notify them of their error and if they don’t change then find alternative places to shop.
If you want to break your fast with delicious dates from Palestine as well as sample other produce then there are various shops listed on the Zaytoun.org website. Zaytoun is an ethical business established to support marginalized farming communities in Palestine. Zaytoun helps Palestinion farmers access the UK market and ensures that the money made from sales goes back to the right people.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
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.
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.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Things that break (and do not break) the fast
SAWM (Fasting)
by Shaykh Muhammed Saleem Dhorat
Taken from idauk.org
O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you,as it was prescribed to those before you,that you may (learn) self-restraint (Holy Qur'aan 2 : 183)
Sawm (fasting) means to refrain from eating, drinking and cohabiting from subha sadiq (early dawn) to sunset with a niyyah (intention) of observing fast.
Fasting in the month of Ramadhaan is one of the five pillars of Islaam and is fardh (compulsory) upon every muslim who is sane and mature. Fasting has many physical, moral, and social benefits. However, Allah has made fasting compulsory so that we become pious and God-fearing.
Fasting will not be valid without niyyah. It is not necessary to express the niyyah in words. However it is preferable to recite Allahumma asoomu laka ghadan (O Allah tomorrow I shall be fasting for you only). In the case of Ramadhaan, it is better to make niyyah in the night. However, should a person fail to do so, then it is permitted to make the niyyah during the day before zawaal (midday).
MUSTAHAB (DESIRABLE) ACTS IN FASTING
1. To eat sehri (the meal before subha sadiq).
2. To delay the sehri up to a little before subha sadiq (early dawn).
3. To break the fast immediately after sunset.
4. To break the fast with dates. If dates are not available then with water.
5. To recite this du'a at the time of breaking the fast :-
Allahumma laka sumtu wa bika aamantu wa ala rizqika aftartu
O Allah! I fasted for You and in You do I believe and with Your provision (food) do I break my fast.
THINGS MAKROOH (DETESTABLE) WHILE FASTING
1. To chew items such as rubber, plastic etc.
2. To taste food or drink and spit it out.
3. To collect one's saliva in the mouth and then swallow it.
4. To clean teeth or mouth with tooth powder or toothpaste.
5. To complain of hunger or thirst.
6. To quarrel, argue with filthy words.
THINGS THAT BREAK THE FAST
1. To eat, drink or indulge in cohabitation intentionally.
2. To burn agarbatti (incense) and inhale its smoke.
3. If water goes down the throat while gargling.
4. To vomit mouthful intentionally.
5. To swallow vomit intentionally.
6. To swallow something edible, equal to or bigger than a grain of gram, which was stuck between the teeth. However, if it is first taken out of the mouth and then swallowed, it will break the fast whether it is smaller or bigger than the size of the grain.
7. To drop oil or medicine into ear or nose.
8. To swallow the blood from gums with saliva. However, if the blood is less than the saliva and its taste is not felt then the fast will not break.
9. Snuffing.
10. To eat and drink forgetting one is fasting and thereafter, thinking that the fast is broken to eat and drink again
11. Smoking.
12. To apply medicine to the anus.
13. For women to apply medicine to the urinary organs.
14. To swallow intentionally a pebble, piece of paper or any item that is not used as food or medicine.
In all the above circumstances, only a single fast will become qadha except in the case of number one (1), where qadha and kaffarah both will become obligatory. (Consult an aalim regarding the rules of kaffarah).
THINGS THAT DO NOT BREAK THE FAST
1. To eat, drink or indulge in cohabitation in forgetfulness.
2. To vomit without intention.
3. To vomit intentionally less than mouthful.
4. To have a wet dream.
5. To oil the hair.
6. To use surma (collyrium) in the eyes.
7. To drop water or medicine in the eyes.
8. To clean teeth with wet or dry miswaak (a stick used for cleaning teeth).
9. To apply or smell attar (perfume).
10. To swallow a fly, mosquito, smoke or dust unintentionally.
11. To swallow one's saliva or phlegm.
12. Water entering the ears.
13. To take an injection.
SUNNAHS IN THE MONTH OF RAMADHAAN
1. To observe taraweeh.
2. To increase the recitation of the Holy Qur'aan.
3. To observe i'atikaaf during the last ten days of Ramadhaan.
Sawm (Fasting)
Sawm is a shield, as long as he (the fasting person) does not tear it up. (Nasa'ee)
Fasting is a protection from Shaytãn or from Allah's punishment in the Hereafter. One who indulges in sins whilst fasting such as lying, backbiting etc., they become the cause of the fast becoming wasted.
All good deeds are for the one who renders them, but Fasting. Fasting is exclusively for me (Allah). (Bukhãri)
Fasting is a shield and a powerful fortress. (Ahmad, Bayhaqi)
I swear by that being in whose possession is the life of Muhammad! The odour of the mouth of a fasting person is sweeter to Allah than the fragrance of musk.(Bukhãri)
Fasting is exclusively for Allah, the reward of it (being limitless) no one knows besides Allah. (Tabrãni)
Suhoor
Verily, Allah and His angels send mercy upon those who eat suhoor. (Tabrãni)
Eat suhoor because in suhoor lies barakah. (Mishkãt)
Iftãr
Whosoever gives something to a fasting person in order to break the fast, for him there shall be forgiveness for his sins and emancipation from the fire of Jahannam; and for him (the one who gives) shall be the same reward as for him (whom he fed), without that person's (the one who was fed) reward being diminished in the least. (Ibne Khuzaymah, Bayhaqi)
Whoever gave a person, who fasted, water to drink, Allah shall give him a drink from my fountain where after he shall never again feel thirsty until he enters Jannah. (Ibne Khuzaymah)
The fasting person experiences two (ocassions) of delight: at the time of iftãr and at the time he will meet his Rabb.(Bukhãri)Not a single prayer made by a fasting person at the time of breaking fast is rejected. (Ibne Mãjah)
Note:
If you didn't find what you were looking for please also try the General questions and answers
by Shaykh Muhammed Saleem Dhorat
Taken from idauk.org
O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you,as it was prescribed to those before you,that you may (learn) self-restraint (Holy Qur'aan 2 : 183)
Sawm (fasting) means to refrain from eating, drinking and cohabiting from subha sadiq (early dawn) to sunset with a niyyah (intention) of observing fast.
Fasting in the month of Ramadhaan is one of the five pillars of Islaam and is fardh (compulsory) upon every muslim who is sane and mature. Fasting has many physical, moral, and social benefits. However, Allah has made fasting compulsory so that we become pious and God-fearing.
Fasting will not be valid without niyyah. It is not necessary to express the niyyah in words. However it is preferable to recite Allahumma asoomu laka ghadan (O Allah tomorrow I shall be fasting for you only). In the case of Ramadhaan, it is better to make niyyah in the night. However, should a person fail to do so, then it is permitted to make the niyyah during the day before zawaal (midday).
MUSTAHAB (DESIRABLE) ACTS IN FASTING
1. To eat sehri (the meal before subha sadiq).
2. To delay the sehri up to a little before subha sadiq (early dawn).
3. To break the fast immediately after sunset.
4. To break the fast with dates. If dates are not available then with water.
5. To recite this du'a at the time of breaking the fast :-
Allahumma laka sumtu wa bika aamantu wa ala rizqika aftartu
O Allah! I fasted for You and in You do I believe and with Your provision (food) do I break my fast.
THINGS MAKROOH (DETESTABLE) WHILE FASTING
1. To chew items such as rubber, plastic etc.
2. To taste food or drink and spit it out.
3. To collect one's saliva in the mouth and then swallow it.
4. To clean teeth or mouth with tooth powder or toothpaste.
5. To complain of hunger or thirst.
6. To quarrel, argue with filthy words.
THINGS THAT BREAK THE FAST
1. To eat, drink or indulge in cohabitation intentionally.
2. To burn agarbatti (incense) and inhale its smoke.
3. If water goes down the throat while gargling.
4. To vomit mouthful intentionally.
5. To swallow vomit intentionally.
6. To swallow something edible, equal to or bigger than a grain of gram, which was stuck between the teeth. However, if it is first taken out of the mouth and then swallowed, it will break the fast whether it is smaller or bigger than the size of the grain.
7. To drop oil or medicine into ear or nose.
8. To swallow the blood from gums with saliva. However, if the blood is less than the saliva and its taste is not felt then the fast will not break.
9. Snuffing.
10. To eat and drink forgetting one is fasting and thereafter, thinking that the fast is broken to eat and drink again
11. Smoking.
12. To apply medicine to the anus.
13. For women to apply medicine to the urinary organs.
14. To swallow intentionally a pebble, piece of paper or any item that is not used as food or medicine.
In all the above circumstances, only a single fast will become qadha except in the case of number one (1), where qadha and kaffarah both will become obligatory. (Consult an aalim regarding the rules of kaffarah).
THINGS THAT DO NOT BREAK THE FAST
1. To eat, drink or indulge in cohabitation in forgetfulness.
2. To vomit without intention.
3. To vomit intentionally less than mouthful.
4. To have a wet dream.
5. To oil the hair.
6. To use surma (collyrium) in the eyes.
7. To drop water or medicine in the eyes.
8. To clean teeth with wet or dry miswaak (a stick used for cleaning teeth).
9. To apply or smell attar (perfume).
10. To swallow a fly, mosquito, smoke or dust unintentionally.
11. To swallow one's saliva or phlegm.
12. Water entering the ears.
13. To take an injection.
SUNNAHS IN THE MONTH OF RAMADHAAN
1. To observe taraweeh.
2. To increase the recitation of the Holy Qur'aan.
3. To observe i'atikaaf during the last ten days of Ramadhaan.
Sawm (Fasting)
Sawm is a shield, as long as he (the fasting person) does not tear it up. (Nasa'ee)
Fasting is a protection from Shaytãn or from Allah's punishment in the Hereafter. One who indulges in sins whilst fasting such as lying, backbiting etc., they become the cause of the fast becoming wasted.
All good deeds are for the one who renders them, but Fasting. Fasting is exclusively for me (Allah). (Bukhãri)
Fasting is a shield and a powerful fortress. (Ahmad, Bayhaqi)
I swear by that being in whose possession is the life of Muhammad! The odour of the mouth of a fasting person is sweeter to Allah than the fragrance of musk.(Bukhãri)
Fasting is exclusively for Allah, the reward of it (being limitless) no one knows besides Allah. (Tabrãni)
Suhoor
Verily, Allah and His angels send mercy upon those who eat suhoor. (Tabrãni)
Eat suhoor because in suhoor lies barakah. (Mishkãt)
Iftãr
Whosoever gives something to a fasting person in order to break the fast, for him there shall be forgiveness for his sins and emancipation from the fire of Jahannam; and for him (the one who gives) shall be the same reward as for him (whom he fed), without that person's (the one who was fed) reward being diminished in the least. (Ibne Khuzaymah, Bayhaqi)
Whoever gave a person, who fasted, water to drink, Allah shall give him a drink from my fountain where after he shall never again feel thirsty until he enters Jannah. (Ibne Khuzaymah)
The fasting person experiences two (ocassions) of delight: at the time of iftãr and at the time he will meet his Rabb.(Bukhãri)Not a single prayer made by a fasting person at the time of breaking fast is rejected. (Ibne Mãjah)
Note:
If you didn't find what you were looking for please also try the General questions and answers
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Fasting: The Moral and Spiritual Characteristics
THE FASTING (SAWM)
Taken from "Islam in Focus" by Hammudah AbDa-Lati
Thanks to Nazrul Islam for forwarding this material.
Another unique moral and spiritual characteristic of Islam is the prescribed institution of Fasting. Literally defined, fasting means to abstain "completely" from foods, drinks, intimate intercourse and smoking, before the break of the dawn till sunset, during the entire month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic year. But if we restrict the meaning of the Islamic Fasting to this literal sense, we would be sadly mistaken.
When Islam introduced this matchless institution, it planted an evergrowing tree of infinite virtue and invaluable products. Here is an explanation of the spiritual meaning of the Islamic Fasting:
1. It teaches man the principle of sincere Love; because when he observes the Fasting he, does it out of deep love for God. And the man who loves God truly is a man who really knows what love is.
2. It equips man with a creative sense of Hope and an optimistic outlook on life; because when he fasts he is hoping to please God and is seeking His Grace.
3. It imbues man with a genuine virtue of effective Devotion, honest Dedication and closeness to God; because when he fasts he does so for God and for His sake alone.
4. It cultivates in man a vigilant and sound Conscience; because the fasting person keeps his Fast in secret as well as in public. In Fasting, especially, there is no mundane authority to check man's behavior or compel him to observe the Fasting. He keeps it to please God and satisfy his own conscience by being faithful in secret and in public. There is no better way to cultivate a sound conscience in man.
5. It indoctrinates man in Patience and Unselfishness; because when he fasts he feels the pains of deprivation but endures patiently. Truly this deprivation may be only temporary, yet there is no doubt that the experience makes him realize the severe effects of such pains on others, who might be deprived of essential commodities for days or weeks or probably months together. The meaning of this experience in a social and humanitarian sense is that such a person is much quicker than anybody else in sympathizing with his fellow men and responding to their needs. And that is an eloquent expression of unselfishness and genuine sympathy.
6. It is an effective lesson in applied Moderation and Willpower. The person who observes his Fasting properly is certainly a man who can discipline his passionate desires and place his self above physical temptations. Such is the man of personality and character, the man of willpower and determination.
7. It provides man with. a Transparent Soul to transcend, a Clear Mind to think and a Light Body to move and act. All this is the never- failing result of carrying a light stomach. Medical instructions, biological rules and intellectual experience attest to this fact.
8. It shows man a new way of Wise Savings and Sound Budgeting; because normally when he eats less quantities or less meals he spends less money and effort. And this is a spiritual semester of home economics and budgeting.
9. It enables man to master the art of Mature Adaptability. We can easily understand the point once we realize that Fasting makes man change the entire course of his daily life. When he makes the change, he naturally adapts himself to a new system and moves along to satisfy the new rules. This, in the long run, develops in him a wise sense of adaptability and a self-created power to overcome the unpredictable hardships of life. A man who values constructive adaptability and courage will readily appreciate the effects of Fasting in this respect.
10. It grounds man in Discipline and Healthy Survival. When a person, observes the regular course of Fasting in consecutive days of the Holy Month and in the Holy Months of the consecutive years, he is certainly applying himself to a high form of discipline and a superb sense of order. Similarly, when he relieves his stomach and relaxes his digestive system, he is indeed insuring his body, not to mention the soul, against all harm that results from stomach overcharge. In this manner of relaxation he may be sure that his body will survive free from the usual disorder and break, and that his soul will continue to shine purely and peacefully.
11. It originates in man the real Spirit of Social Belonging, of Unity and Brotherhood, of Equality before God as well as before the Law. This spirit is the natural product of the fact that when man fasts, he feels that he is joining the whole Muslim society in observing the same duty in the same manner at the same time for the same motives to the same end. No sociologist can say that there has been at any period of history anything comparable to this fine institution of Islam. People have been crying throughout the ages for acceptable belonging, for unity, for brotherhood, for equality, but how echoless their voice has been, and how very little success they have met! Where can they find their goals without the guiding light of Islam?
12. It is a Godly prescription for self-reassurance and self-control, for maintenance of human dignity and freedom, for victory and peace. These results never fail to manifest themselves as a lively reality in the heart of the person who knows how to keep the Fasting. When he fasts in the proper manner, he is in control of himself, exercises full command over his passions, disciplines his desires and resists all evil temptations. By this course, he is in a position to reassure himself, to restore his dignity and integrity and to attain freedom from- the captivity of evil. Once he obtains all this, he has established inner peace, which is the source of permanent peace with God and, consequently, with the entire universe.
Taken from "Islam in Focus" by Hammudah AbDa-Lati
Thanks to Nazrul Islam for forwarding this material.
Another unique moral and spiritual characteristic of Islam is the prescribed institution of Fasting. Literally defined, fasting means to abstain "completely" from foods, drinks, intimate intercourse and smoking, before the break of the dawn till sunset, during the entire month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic year. But if we restrict the meaning of the Islamic Fasting to this literal sense, we would be sadly mistaken.
When Islam introduced this matchless institution, it planted an evergrowing tree of infinite virtue and invaluable products. Here is an explanation of the spiritual meaning of the Islamic Fasting:
1. It teaches man the principle of sincere Love; because when he observes the Fasting he, does it out of deep love for God. And the man who loves God truly is a man who really knows what love is.
2. It equips man with a creative sense of Hope and an optimistic outlook on life; because when he fasts he is hoping to please God and is seeking His Grace.
3. It imbues man with a genuine virtue of effective Devotion, honest Dedication and closeness to God; because when he fasts he does so for God and for His sake alone.
4. It cultivates in man a vigilant and sound Conscience; because the fasting person keeps his Fast in secret as well as in public. In Fasting, especially, there is no mundane authority to check man's behavior or compel him to observe the Fasting. He keeps it to please God and satisfy his own conscience by being faithful in secret and in public. There is no better way to cultivate a sound conscience in man.
5. It indoctrinates man in Patience and Unselfishness; because when he fasts he feels the pains of deprivation but endures patiently. Truly this deprivation may be only temporary, yet there is no doubt that the experience makes him realize the severe effects of such pains on others, who might be deprived of essential commodities for days or weeks or probably months together. The meaning of this experience in a social and humanitarian sense is that such a person is much quicker than anybody else in sympathizing with his fellow men and responding to their needs. And that is an eloquent expression of unselfishness and genuine sympathy.
6. It is an effective lesson in applied Moderation and Willpower. The person who observes his Fasting properly is certainly a man who can discipline his passionate desires and place his self above physical temptations. Such is the man of personality and character, the man of willpower and determination.
7. It provides man with. a Transparent Soul to transcend, a Clear Mind to think and a Light Body to move and act. All this is the never- failing result of carrying a light stomach. Medical instructions, biological rules and intellectual experience attest to this fact.
8. It shows man a new way of Wise Savings and Sound Budgeting; because normally when he eats less quantities or less meals he spends less money and effort. And this is a spiritual semester of home economics and budgeting.
9. It enables man to master the art of Mature Adaptability. We can easily understand the point once we realize that Fasting makes man change the entire course of his daily life. When he makes the change, he naturally adapts himself to a new system and moves along to satisfy the new rules. This, in the long run, develops in him a wise sense of adaptability and a self-created power to overcome the unpredictable hardships of life. A man who values constructive adaptability and courage will readily appreciate the effects of Fasting in this respect.
10. It grounds man in Discipline and Healthy Survival. When a person, observes the regular course of Fasting in consecutive days of the Holy Month and in the Holy Months of the consecutive years, he is certainly applying himself to a high form of discipline and a superb sense of order. Similarly, when he relieves his stomach and relaxes his digestive system, he is indeed insuring his body, not to mention the soul, against all harm that results from stomach overcharge. In this manner of relaxation he may be sure that his body will survive free from the usual disorder and break, and that his soul will continue to shine purely and peacefully.
11. It originates in man the real Spirit of Social Belonging, of Unity and Brotherhood, of Equality before God as well as before the Law. This spirit is the natural product of the fact that when man fasts, he feels that he is joining the whole Muslim society in observing the same duty in the same manner at the same time for the same motives to the same end. No sociologist can say that there has been at any period of history anything comparable to this fine institution of Islam. People have been crying throughout the ages for acceptable belonging, for unity, for brotherhood, for equality, but how echoless their voice has been, and how very little success they have met! Where can they find their goals without the guiding light of Islam?
12. It is a Godly prescription for self-reassurance and self-control, for maintenance of human dignity and freedom, for victory and peace. These results never fail to manifest themselves as a lively reality in the heart of the person who knows how to keep the Fasting. When he fasts in the proper manner, he is in control of himself, exercises full command over his passions, disciplines his desires and resists all evil temptations. By this course, he is in a position to reassure himself, to restore his dignity and integrity and to attain freedom from- the captivity of evil. Once he obtains all this, he has established inner peace, which is the source of permanent peace with God and, consequently, with the entire universe.
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