(Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh sweeps the streets as part of a cleaning campaign with volunteers in Gaza City)
All praise is due to Allaah, Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon the Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam), his household and companions (ra - may Allah be pleased with them all).
Fellow Muslims! Fear Allaah as He should be feared. Fear of Allaah is a reminder for His devoted servants and it is safety from His punishment.
Dear brethren! A Muslim woman attains prosperity by following the path of the best women who lived in the best generation who were nurtured in the house of Prophethood. They are women of high status and outstanding estimation.
They are blessed and great women. Foremost among them is that intelligent and wise woman, Khadeejah bint Khuwaylid (ra - may Allah be pleased with her), the religious and noble woman. She grew up upon virtuous characters and manners. She was chaste and gracious. She was known among Makkah women as 'the pure woman'. The Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) married her and she supported him with her life, wealth and wisdom. During his sorrowful days, he would seek shelter with her and confide in her.
When the first revelation came to him he went to his wife shaking, and he said, "O Khadeejah, I fear for myself." But Khadeejah (ra) responded to his fear with a firm heart. And she told him, "By Allaah, Allaah will not disgrace you."
Islaam started in her house and she was the first person to embrace it. Ibn al-katheer (rh - may Allah have mercy upon him) said, "Khadeejah (ra) was the first person to embrace Islaam."
At the beginning of the Prophet's (saw - may the peace & blessings of Allah be upon him) mission, he was faced with many tribulations. But she stood by him compassionately and supported him with her outstanding intelligence. Whenever he heard any undesirable words from the people he would go to her, and she would strengthen and console him. The Prophet (saw) said about her, "She believed in me when the people denied me, she trusted me when people belied me; she supported me with her wealth when people refused to support me and I was blessed with children by her when I was denied children by other women." (Ahmad)
Khadeejah (ra) was a dutiful and great wife to her husband and an affectionate mother to her children. She gave birth to all the Prophet's. She was extremely good-mannered. She never argued with her husband and she never bothered him. The Messenger of Allaah (saw) said, "Angel Jibreel (Gabriel) came to me and said: 'Give Khadeejah glad tidings that she will have a palace made of hollowed pearls in Paradise and there will be neither noise nor any trouble in it (hardship & toil).'" (Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim)
As-Suhaylee said, "She was given the glad tiding of a house in Paradise because she never raised her voice over that of the Prophet (saw) and she never bothered him." She was pleased with her Lord and Allaah is pleased with her.
The Prophet (saw) said, "Paradise and there will be neither noise nor any trouble in it.'" (Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim)
Ibn al-Qayyim said, "Khadeejah (ra) was the only woman known to have this honour."
Allaah loved Khadeejah (ra), so did His angels. The Messenger of Allaah (saw) also loved her so much. He said, "I am blessed with her love." (Muslim)
Whenever the Prophet (saw) remembered her, he would mention her in glowing attributes and would show gratitude for her companionship. 'Aaishah (ra) said, "Whenever the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) remembered Khadeejah (ra), he would never tire of praising her and invoking Allaah's forgiveness for her. He appreciated her love and sincerity and he would honour her friends even after her death."
'Aaishah (ra) said, "He would often slaughter a goat, and distribute it to Khadeejah's (ra) friends. And whenever I asked him, 'Are there no other women in the world except Khadeejah (ra)?' He would say, 'She was this and that (he would praise and defend her) and she bore me children.'" (Al-Bukhaaree)
After her death, Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) heard her sister's voice. He them became sad and said, "She reminded me of Khadeejah (ra)."
Khadeejah (ra) was perfect in her religion, wisdom and conduct. The Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) said, "Many men attained perfection, but only three women attained it: Maryam (Mary the mother of Jesus), daughter of 'Imraan, Aasiyah, Pharaoh's wife and Khadeejah bint Khuwaylid (ra - may Allah be pleased with them all." (Ibn Mardooyah)
She preceded the women of this Ummah (Islamic Global community) in righteousness, nobility and splendour. Allaah's Messenger said, "Maryam [Mary, Jesus' mother] was the best woman of her time, and the best woman of this Ummah is Khadeejah (ra)." (Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim)
Khadeejah (ra) was righteous and made her home righteous. She reaped the fruit of her labour and she and her daughter became the best of the women of the worlds in Paradise. The Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) said, "The best from the women of Paradise are: Khadeejah, Faatimah, Maryam [Mary] and 'Aasiyah (may Allah be pleased with them all)." (Ahmad and An-Nasaa'ee)
She occupied a great place in the Prophet's (saw) heart. He did not marry any woman before her neither did he marry any woman while she was still with him until she died. He was extremely distressed with her death. Adh-Dhahabee said, "Khadeejah (ra) was intelligent, gracious, religious, chaste and noble. She is one of the dwellers of Paradise."
Dear brethren! Another great woman of the house of Prophethood is 'Aaishah (ra), daughter of Aboo Bakr (ra - may Allah be pleased with him). She was born in the house of truthfulness and piety and she was nurtured in the house of eemaan (faith). Her mother was a companion and her sister, Asmaa, Lady of the Two Girdles and her brother were also companions. Her father is the truthful man of this Ummah. She grew up in the house of knowledge, for her father was the erudite scholar of Quraysh and the highest authority in genealogy.
Allaah endowed her with outstanding intelligence and a sharp memory. Ibn Katheer (rh - may Allah have mercy upon him) said, "No nation has produced a woman as sharp, knowledgeable, fluent and intelligent as 'Aaishah (ra)." She excelled the women of her race in knowledge and wisdom. She was blessed with understanding of Islaamic jurisprudence and memorisation of poetry. She was in fact, a treasure of Islaamic sciences. Adh-Dhahabee said, "The most knowledgeable woman of this Ummah is 'Aaishah (ra). I do not know any woman from the Ummah of Muhammad (saw) or from any other nation more knowledgeable than her."
She excelled all women with her virtues and beautiful companionship. Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) said, "The superiority of 'Aaishah (ra) over other women is like the superiority of thareed over other kinds of food." (Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim)
The Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) loved her; and he did not love anything but that which is pleasant.
'Amr ibn al-'Aas (ra - may Allah be pleased with him) once asked Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam), "Who is most beloved to you of all people?" The Prophet answered, "'Aaishah (ra)." And he said, "And among men?" And he answered, "Her father." (Al-Bukhaaree)
Al-Qurtubee said, "There are resplendent evidences in Islaam that require women to stay at home and not to go out except when necessary. And when it becomes
necessary for them to go out they should do so with complete covering of themselves and their adornments."
Allaah puts whomever He wills to test, and the test is in accordance with one's eemaan. 'Aaishah (ra) was slandered. She said, narrating her ordeal in this incidence, "I wept and I could not sleep and I just kept weeping until my parents thought that my liver would burst from weeping." She said that the trial was so severe that she would weep but could not find any more tears to shed.
Ibn Katheer said, "Allaah defended her honour, and He revealed ten verses to absolve her. This elevated her status and these verses were recited and they shall continue to be recited till the Day of Resurrection. Allaah testified that she was one of the purest women and promised her forgiveness and a generous provision.
She spent nights caring for the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) in his illness until he died in her apartment, on her day and in her bosom.
Sawdah bint Zam'ah (ra) is another of the Prophet's (saw) noble wives. She was pure-hearted and the first woman he married after the death of Khadeejah (ra). She was gracious and noble, and the purity of her heart manifested when she gave her days with the Prophet to 'Aaishah out of consideration for her husband's feelings and in order to earn reward of her Lord.
Another great woman in the Prophet's (saw) household is Hafsah (ra), daughter of 'Umar (ra). She was given to observing prayers in the night and performing supererogatory fasting. She grew up in a house in which the cause of Islaam was supported and truth was given prominence. Seven members of her family participated in the battle of Badr. 'Aaishah (ra) said of her, "She was my only competitor among the Prophet's wives."
There is also Zaynab bint Khuzaymah al-Hilaaliyyah (ra)who was very generous and hastened to perform righteous deeds. She lived with Allaah's Messenger (saw) for only two months and then sadly passed away.
Another distinguished woman in the house of Prophethood is Umm Habeebah (ra) daughter of Aboo Sufyaan (ra - may Allah be pleased with him), the emigrant and the one who was given to performing meritorious deeds. There was no one among his wives who was more generous than her as far as giving charity is concerned. She migrated to Abyssinia, escaping with her religion from the persecution of quraysh.
Another outstanding wife of the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) was Umm Salamah (ra - may Allah be pleased with her), the patient and noble woman. Her name is Hind bint Abee Umayyah, one of the earliest emigrants. When she wanted to migrate to al-Madeenah with her husband Aboo Salamah (ra), her clan separated her from her husband and son. She said, "Every morning I would go to Abtah [a valley in Makkah] and I would keep weeping until evening. I did so for a whole year or close to a year. They later pitied me and gave my son back to me."
Her faith in Allaah was firm-rooted. When her first husband died, she said the invocation that Allaah's Messenger taught her, so Allaah gave her a better husband in the person of Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam). Umm Salamah (ra) narrated that the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) said, "If any Muslim who suffers some calamity says what Allaah has commanded him," We belong to Allah and to Him shall we return; O Allaah, reward me for my affliction and give me something better than it in exchange for it," Allah will
give him something better than it in exchange." When Abu Salamah (ra) died she said: 'Which Muslim is better than Abu Salamah whose family was the first to emigrate to the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam)?' I
then said those words, and Allaah gave me the Prophet
(sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) in exchange." (Muslim)
Make this supplication your treasure during afflictions, Allaah will provide you with what is better.
Dear brethren! There is a woman among the Prophet's wives known as Mother of the Poor. She is Zaynab bint Jahsh (ra). She enjoyed nobility of birth and character. She was described by Aboo Nu'aym as, 'devoted and contented woman'. Allaah married her to His Prophet through an explicit verse from His Book,
"So when Zaid had accomplished his desire from her (i.e. divorced her), We gave her to you in marriage." (Al-Ahzaab 33:37)
Her marriage to the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) is a blessing to the Muslim women till the day of Resurrection, for it was after her marriage that Allaah ordained hijaab for the women so that it could serve as a symbol of protection for their honour, chastity and purity.
Zaynab (ra) was extremely generous to the poor and the weak. She was highly charitable. In spite of her nobility and high status, she used to work with her hands, tanning
and making beads. And she would spend the proceeds for the poor. 'Aaishah (ra) said, "I have not seen a woman better in her adherence to religion, more pious, kinder to the kith and kin and more generous in giving charity than Zaynab."
Juwayriyyah bint al-Haarith (ra) from the tribe of Banoo al-Mustaliq is another of the Prophet's distinguished wives. Her father was the influential chief of his tribe. She was in herself blessed as she was blessed to her tribe. 'Aaishah (ra) said, "I have not seen a woman who is greater in blessing to her people more than her." She was given to performing much acts of worship for her Lord. She sincerely and devotedly worshiped her Lord. She would sit down in her prayer place remembering her Lord after Fajr until mid-noon. She said, "The Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) came to me one morning while I was glorifying Allaah. He then went out for some of his needs. When he came back just before mid-noon he said, 'Are you still there remembering Allaah?' And I said, 'Yes.'" (Muslim)
Another honourable wife of Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) is the Safiyyah bint Huyayy (ra), a descendant of Prophet Haaroon [Aaron]. She was a noble and intelligent woman. She was highly-placed, religious, deliberate and peace-loving. The Messenger of Allaah
(sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) told her, "Indeed, you are a
daughter of a Prophet [meaning Aaron], your uncle is a Prophet [meaning Moses]; and you are also married to a
Prophet." (At-Tirmidhee)
The feast of her marriage to the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) comprised only of butter, cottage cheese and dates. But the marriage was blessed.
Maymoonah bint al-Haarith al-Hilaaliyyah (ra), the woman who was given to being kind to the kith and kin is another eminent wife of the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa
sallam). She was one the greatest women. Allaah endowed her with pure heart and performance of much acts of worship. 'Aaishah said about her, "She was one of the most pious and most generous to the kith and kin among us."
Fellow Muslims! That is the history of the outstanding women of Islaam, mothers of the faithful. Their virtues are glowing. They had combination of beauties and virtues. It is therefore, incumbent upon Muslims to make them their models in matters of their religion, their submission to Allaah and His Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam), their conduct, their consciousness of Allaah, their performance of acts of worship, their truthfulness in words and their spending for the poor. They need to emulate them in their alleviation of other people's sufferings; and in their efforts to make their children righteous, correct them with patience and in seeking fortification through knowledge and learning from erudite scholars.
They need to emulate them in keeping themselves properly covered, maintaining their chastity and keeping away from doubtful and lustful things. They should emulate them by avoiding pinning their hopes on this world, heedlessness and forgetfulness or being carried away by outward beauties while the inward is corrupt.
Muslims should avoid looking at forbidden things and engaging in amorous conversations with the opposite sex. They should beware of those who are calling to the
removal of hijaab and mixing with the opposite sex.
Muslim woman's greatness and glory lie in her religion and her hijaab. Allaah says,
"O Prophet! Tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks (veils) all over their bodies (i.e. screen themselves completely except the eyes or one eye to see the way). That will be better, that they should be known (as free respectable women) so as not to be annoyed. And Allaah is Ever Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful." (Al-Israa 33:59)
Dear Muslims! The Prophet's (saw) wives lived with him humbly in apartments built of brick and palm leaves, but full of eemaan and piety. They showed patience with the
Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) over poverty and hunger. Sometimes, a month or two would pass with no cooking fire kindled in their homes. They would spend days with nothing to eat but only dates and water. Sometimes they would make do with water only. Yet they lived in contentedness and patience upon
Allaah's promise that,
"The Hereafter is better for you than the present (life of this world)." (Ad-Duhaa 93:4)
And His promise,
"And whosoever of you is obedient to Allaah and His Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) and does righteous good deeds, We shall give her, her reward twice over, and We have prepared for her a noble provision." (Al-Ahzaab 33:31)
Brethren in Islaam! The Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam) married five of his wives with their ages ranging between forty and sixty. By that he was able to lay an example in taking care of the widow and their orphaned children. He married Khadeejah (ra) while she was forty years old, with three children from the previous marriage, while he was unmarried before. He married Zaynab bint Khuzaymah (ra) who was an almost sixty-year-old widow. He married Umm Salamah (ra) who was a widow with six children. He married Sawdah (ra) who was a fifty-five years old widow.
He married some relatives from among his cousins. And he married some women who were not his relatives.
He was a compassionate, dutiful and honourable husband to them all. He lived with them in the most beautiful way. He was always cheerful and kind to them.
Therefore, let those who want to prosper emulate the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam), who is the best of all creatures. Let the Muslim women follow the path of the righteous wives of the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayihi wa sallam). For, there is no success for any woman
except by following the path of these pious ladies in their
righteousness and God-consciousness and in their dutifulness to their husband and children.
By: Shaykh 'Abdul-Muhsin Al-Qaasim
Al-Madeenah Al-Munawwarah (Sermons of the two Holy Mosques)
Monday, April 30, 2007
What is the meaning of the aayah "It is prescribed for you, when death approaches any of you…"
Question:
What is the meaning of the aayah (interpretation of the meaning) "It is prescribed for you, when death approaches any of you…" [al-Baqarah 2:180]?
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
Abu Bakr ibn al-`Arabi said:
Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning) "It is prescribed for you, when death approaches any of you…" [al-Baqarah 2:180].
Our scholars said: This does not mean the approach of death in the literal sense, because that is the time when repentance will no longer be accepted and he no longer has any involement in this world; we cannot make sense of anything that he says, not even a word, so if the aayah were referring to that, that would be something impossible and unimaginable, but it may be interpreted in two ways:
1 _ If the time of death is drawing nigh, the signs of which are: old age or travelling, for there is risk involved in travelling, or one expects something to happen that could lead to death, or one realizes that death is inevitable [because death could come suddenly at any time].
2 _ It may mean when one falls sick, because sickness is a cause of death, and when the cause of something happens, the Arabs mention the result when referring to the cause. For example, the poet said (speaking of sickness):
"Tell them to hasten to apologize and to think about something to say that will free you from any blame, for I am death."
Ahkaam al-Qur'aan, 1/102.
What is the meaning of the aayah (interpretation of the meaning) "It is prescribed for you, when death approaches any of you…" [al-Baqarah 2:180]?
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
Abu Bakr ibn al-`Arabi said:
Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning) "It is prescribed for you, when death approaches any of you…" [al-Baqarah 2:180].
Our scholars said: This does not mean the approach of death in the literal sense, because that is the time when repentance will no longer be accepted and he no longer has any involement in this world; we cannot make sense of anything that he says, not even a word, so if the aayah were referring to that, that would be something impossible and unimaginable, but it may be interpreted in two ways:
1 _ If the time of death is drawing nigh, the signs of which are: old age or travelling, for there is risk involved in travelling, or one expects something to happen that could lead to death, or one realizes that death is inevitable [because death could come suddenly at any time].
2 _ It may mean when one falls sick, because sickness is a cause of death, and when the cause of something happens, the Arabs mention the result when referring to the cause. For example, the poet said (speaking of sickness):
"Tell them to hasten to apologize and to think about something to say that will free you from any blame, for I am death."
Ahkaam al-Qur'aan, 1/102.
How the people will be divided on the Day of Resurrection
Question:
How the people will be divided on the Day of Resurrection
"And you (all) will be in three groups.
So those on the Right Hand (i.e. those who will be given their Records in their right hands) how (fortunate) will be those on the Right Hand! (As a respect for them, because they will enter Paradise).
And those on the Left Hand (i.e. those who will be given their Record in their left hands) how (unfortunate) will be those on the Left Hand! (As a disgrace for them, because they will enter Hell)." [al-Waaqi'ah 56:7-9 _ interpretation of the meaning]
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
Ibn Katheer said: i.e., the people will be divided into three groups on the Day of Resurrection.
Al-Tabari said: thus they will be divided into the three groups mentioned at the end of the soorah at the time when they are dying.
Then Allaah explained the state of the (three) groups. He said "those on the Right Hand" to point out how great is their status and how respected they are.
"And those on the Left Hand (i.e. those who will be given their Record in their left hands) how (unfortunate) will be those on the Left Hand"; their being on the left indicates how terrible their situation will be.
"And those foremost [(in Islamic Faith of Monotheism and in performing righteous deeds) in the life of this world on the very first call for to embrace Islam] will be foremost (in Paradise)"
[al-Waaq'iah 56:10 _ interpretation of the meaning] This means that those who were foremost in doing good deeds in this world will be foremost in the Hereafter and will be the first to enter Paradise. Those who are of this caliber are the ones who will be closest to Allaah in gardens of delight, in the heights of `Illiyeen, in a lofty status above which there are no higher status. We ask Allaah to make us among those who are foremost. And Allaah knows best.
See Tafseer Ibn Sa'di, p. 832
How the people will be divided on the Day of Resurrection
"And you (all) will be in three groups.
So those on the Right Hand (i.e. those who will be given their Records in their right hands) how (fortunate) will be those on the Right Hand! (As a respect for them, because they will enter Paradise).
And those on the Left Hand (i.e. those who will be given their Record in their left hands) how (unfortunate) will be those on the Left Hand! (As a disgrace for them, because they will enter Hell)." [al-Waaqi'ah 56:7-9 _ interpretation of the meaning]
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
Ibn Katheer said: i.e., the people will be divided into three groups on the Day of Resurrection.
Al-Tabari said: thus they will be divided into the three groups mentioned at the end of the soorah at the time when they are dying.
Then Allaah explained the state of the (three) groups. He said "those on the Right Hand" to point out how great is their status and how respected they are.
"And those on the Left Hand (i.e. those who will be given their Record in their left hands) how (unfortunate) will be those on the Left Hand"; their being on the left indicates how terrible their situation will be.
"And those foremost [(in Islamic Faith of Monotheism and in performing righteous deeds) in the life of this world on the very first call for to embrace Islam] will be foremost (in Paradise)"
[al-Waaq'iah 56:10 _ interpretation of the meaning] This means that those who were foremost in doing good deeds in this world will be foremost in the Hereafter and will be the first to enter Paradise. Those who are of this caliber are the ones who will be closest to Allaah in gardens of delight, in the heights of `Illiyeen, in a lofty status above which there are no higher status. We ask Allaah to make us among those who are foremost. And Allaah knows best.
See Tafseer Ibn Sa'di, p. 832
Is the Qur'aan self-sufficient as the source for Islam?
In the Name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful
The Qur'aan says, "... We have neglected nothing in the Book ..." [Verse 6.38]
And yet, there are a number of things that are not mentioned in the Qur'aan, as, for example, the number of rakaat in the ritual Prayers (Salaat) offered at different times of the day .
Mohammad: Masha Allah what a wonderful post, thank you my brother so very much. Now please allow me to put some sharing in your worshderful post. If you did not read my post about are prayers mentioned in Qur'aan, I amswered a lot about this issue, so please read it, it is in the section of: what Is Islam? Now, as for your saying here: many things are missing from Qur'aan, while Allah says: we left out none, then how you make such a statement my beloved brother, anyway, I did not read all of this post, answering it as I go. Let me share one step at the time, as if each part is a message by itself.
Many Muslims, or let us say most of them say: HAdeeth came to complete Qur'aan, as if the perfect Allah my send an imperfect book, which is so sad on the part of those who say so. Let me say this out clearly and out loud: in regard to our relation with Allah, Allah left nothing out, and if by any chance Allah did, then this is not importatn, because if it is important then Allah would mention it in Qur'aan. How about the number of Rakaas, well, first let us ask: did Allah mention Rakaas in Qur'aan?
Yes, Allah metioned Ruku and Sujud in Qur'aan all over the book, and called prayrs by Salah. Let me first take your attention to an Ayah in Qur'aan this I will base my debate over at this time. Ayah 17:12, if you count the number of the words, Allah mentioned word number 19 the word: Math, when speaking about the day and the night, which relates to three planets, Earth, the Sun and the Moon. When Allah brought the word Math to be number 19 when counting from the first word in the Ayah, then recently we discovered how those three planets come on a straight line every 19 years, then Allah says after Math: and every thing we gave you in full extreme details. This is what Qur'aan looks like, not your average book.
Read gain what I just said, do you think it is easy for any average Muslim to understanf this much, no it is not? nother question: since most Muslims do not even understand anything in Qur'aan, do you think any of those are fit to judge if Rakaas are mentioned or not in Qur'aan, not they are the furthest from such? Therefore, before we say Allah did not mention or forgot, we need to count till one thousand and then think before we utter such words. Now as I am not a Genius about Qur'aan, do you know any one who is, Allh says about a man who worked with Solomon who can bring the Throne of Sheba before Solomon blinks with little knowledge from the book of Allah, do you know any one today with this kind of knowledge, then ask yourself, how much from this book we need to know, and how much we really know about such?
At this time I can share with you a little fact, Surh 17 is the Surah that speaks about the trip of our prophet SAW to the Throne of Allah, during which some stories say: Muhmmad received the number of the Rakaa, whether the stories you know are true or false, and this is as I said is Surah 17, what this number signifies at this point? Count the Obligtory Rakaas, 2 morning, 4 Noon, 4 Aser after noon, 3 Maghrib Evening time, and 4 Isha night time, 2+4+4+3+4=17. Is this a coincedance, Surah 17 about Israa and miraaj, when Muhammad SAW received the number of prayers, to match the number of the Rakaas in its number, think about that, it is clear how we have to think about where a word is mentioned, why a number is given?
You see how easy it is on missing the little thing, and how much study we need to do before we say anything about this miraculous book from Allah. Since Allah said: everything we gave you in extreme details, then it is obvious to have the Surah that speaks about the time when Muhammad received the number of Rakaas to be equal to the number of Rakaas, I hope you can clearly see what I am saying here, remember number 19 in the word Math, and the relation that took us 1400 years to discover and understand? Why 1400 yers, first to keep Qur'aan alive till the end of time, second because there is no rush about this issue, not like the number of Rakaas.
You also sid: In the circumstances, how does one interpret the Verse quoted above, and similar other Verses telling mankind that the divine Book contains explanations on everything? There are many Verses in the Qur'aan, like Verse 6.38, that are strongly indicative of the divine Book being self-sufficient on all matters concerning Islam, the Allah-approved and perfect Religion for the entire mankind. Some such Verses are as follows:
12.111 - ... It is not a concocted hadeeth, but a confirmation of what preceded it and details of every thing and a guidance and a mercy for people who believe.
17.89 - And We have certainly explained, in this Qur'aan, every kind of example ...
18.54 - And We have certainly explained, in this Qur'aan, every kind of example for mankind ...
39.27 - And We have certainly given for mankind, in this Qur'aan, every kind of example for them to remember.
When the Almighty Creator of everything, Himself categorically declares that He has explained everything in His Book, and neglected nothing, we cannot but accept the divine declaration. If we do not, we betray our lack of faith in the Qur'an being the divine Book. So, the believers have no option but to accept that the Qur'aan explains everything that needs to be explained to mankind for the right conduct of their lives on this planet. Here one thing needs to be clearly understood, and that is that, besides the Qur'aan, the All-knowing Allah has granted the boon of a high grade Intellect to mankind. And when the Qur'aan tells us that it has not neglected anything, it obviously means anything that is not grasped through the Intellect. To illustrate this point through a simple example, it would be ridiculous to ask, "If the Qur'aan has neglected nothing, where is the guidance therein for driving a car properly?" This question would be ridiculous because Allah has given us the Intellect to acquire the necessary knowledge and expertise to be able to drive a car. Allah guides us, through the Qur'aan, in matters that cannot be dealt with merely through the use of the Intellect. And it is in such matters that Allah's guidance, through the Qur'aan, is thorough and perfect. That is what the divine Verses, quoted above, tell us.
Mohammad: how wonderful this example is, and how wonderful is the way you gave an answer back, and please as usual allow me to share what I have, I sometimes am a pain in the neck, I know that. If we have the proper knowledge about Qur'aan, be not dismaid if you find Allah spoke about the car, but the Question is: since a car has nothing to do with worshiping Allah, then why any non Muslims ask us to show such from a book that is related to our entrnce to Paradise, and exodus from Hell? If any of you ever faced a silly person who ask about a silly issue saying: did not Allah claim to bring from every example, where is the walk of a Worm is explained, we say: how the worm walks does not matter to our escaping Hell, and seeking Paradise. Not knowing what saves us from Hell is more dangerous than not knowing how the Worms moves about the ground. And as you said Mohammad: we can discover this on our own, no need for Allah to trouble Garbiel to carry this all the way across the seven Skies to reach us with, but on the other hand, do not be surprised if you discover some time Allah mentioned even such.
You said next: Now let us consider the case, specified above, wherein the Qur'aan appears to have missed mentioning some important and necessary detail:
Number of Rakaat in Salaat
The number is of course not mentioned in the Qur'aan. Nor is it unanimously specified, to the best of my knowledge and belief, in the ahaadeeth. Authors of books of Salaat appear to have mentioned the number on the basis of the established practice prevalent at the time of writing those books. In any case, let us consider whether the number is absolutely necessary and important in the eyes of Allah Ta'ala in whose worship the prayers are performed. Since He has not mentioned it in His Book, it goes without saying that it is not absolutely necessary and important in the eyes of Allah. What is absolutely important is what is specifically mentioned in the Qur'aan. And what is mentioned in the Qur'aan is, inter alia, that the prayers be performed devotedly for Allah and for none else. Allah may not question us on the number of rakaat we performed, but He may question us regarding the wanderings of our minds during the performance of those rakaat.
But that apart, the Qur'aan does not prevent us from following the practice prevalent as regards the number of rakaat. Herein comes the role for our Allah-given boon of Intellect. Since Allah has directed us to perform our salaat in congregation preferably, we have to perform the same number of rakaat as the Imam does. And for the sake of uniformity, it would be preferable to follow the prevalent practice in this regard. But Allah has purposely not prescribed the number to enable His devotees to make adjustments suitable to any abnormal situation that may arise at the time of the prayer. Far from being a neglect, this is really a Mercy from Him .
To conclude,
the number of rakaat is not an absolutely necessary and importanct aspect of a salaat,
the Qur'aan does not, nevertheless, prevent us from following the prevalent practice in this regard, for the sake of uniformity,
the Qur'aan has not prescribed any number for the rakaat, to enable an adjustment to suit any abnormal situation,
far from being a neglect, this is really a Mercy from Allah, and,
the Qur'aan is the self-sufficient source for Islam.
Mohammad: wonderful ending you did here, thanks. Ok, now comes the trouble maker (me), you and all of others here mong the wonderful memebers do remember the Ayah, however let me bring it for a reminder to all of us. Ayah 16:44 sys:
??????? ???? ????? ????? ????? ?? ??? ????? ?????? ???????
Please notice the words I underlined, now here is the Interpretation of those Noble words: "and we gave you the Qur'aan, so that you will reveal and explain to the people what Allah gave them, and may they reflect about.
What we have here in this Ayah, and which is extremely important, please pay extreme attention to such? Allah is saying: He gave Muhammad the Qur'aan (Called it by Ziker), and said: so that Muhammad may explain what Allah gave us, and perhaps this will make us think about. As An Arab, I noticed something that no Translation, and no none Arab giving Interpreattion to the Qur'aan is capable of giving you such, so please listen up. Allah says: and we gave you the Qur'aan (Zikir), so that you will explain to the people what was brought for them, makes one like me wonder, does this means how Allah brought in Qur'aan things for others besides mankind?
Notice the words: to explain to people, what was given to them, then this Qur'aan has things not given to mankind, you will ask: who else is there, please listen to this: Do you remember the bird of Solomon, who came explaining to Solomon about the people of Sheba, listen to what this bird said: I found a woman (it knew Gender), ruling over them it knows what rule is all about. The bird spoke a lot, explaining in a manner the best of us fail to explain this situation at hand, knew Allah and worship, please go read Ayahs 27:22-29. Look at how this bird started speaking to the wisest among the wise, Solomon: I know what you do not know, this bird claimed knowledge even the wisest man didnt have . Read the speach of this bird to Solomon, then wonder, is in this Qur'aan something for birds, for the Fish, for the animals, before you answer, please read this Ayah 21:79: which speaks how the mountains and the birds praise Allah, this is why I ask: is there in Qur'aan something for people to be explained, and things only other creatures understand? How?
Look at the Jinn, Ayah 72:2 says: some Jinn listened to Qur'aan from Muhammad SAW and said: we heard marvelous Qur'aan. What Jinn understood, how did they reach this conclusion this fast, took Muhammad 12 yers at Mekka with people and only 40 men and one woman came to Allah, what Jinn saw from little time in the company of the Ayahs of Allah we people till now cannot speak like they spoke saying: Qur'aan Ajaba (which is above any normal, over all expectations), 1400 years and none of us Muslims see Qur'aan as such, we say it is, but can we prove that, yes I know some of us can, but remember those were ordinary Jinn, just happened to pass by according to the wish from Allah.
What I am trying to tell you about all of this, please do not forget, as I started drawing your attention: we know very little about Qur'aan, you know something, I wish, and I dream if Muslims start studying Qur'aan as hard as they criticize it, I wish they start studying Qur'aan as hard as they study silly books that are so much less, and do not compare to the words of Allah, you know why? If we do, I personally promise you: Allah will open from Qur'aan windows that make us see what takes us thousands of years of study, we can see in no time. I know this from personal experiance, I found things others did not, just because I gave Allah some of my time.
Again, what I am trying to say here, and I am sorry I made this post this long? Please do remember how we do not know Qur'aan this well to say: Rakaas are not mentioned, I gave you a hint, simple and easy to understand, but also remember and do not neglict Muhammad was given the knowledge to explain what we need to know, which makes some Hadeeth is true and Genuine, but how we can tell the true Hadeeth from thefalse ones? Those who depend on the books of Hadeeth are so sad, and so ignorant, we all need to make Qur'aan and Allah as our standard. Compare Hadeeth with Qur'aan, when Hadeeth explains Qur'aan, then this is a fulfillment to the order of Allah when He ordered Muhammad SAW to explain Qur'aan to us. This is how we know true Hadeeth from wrong ones, while even the books of Hadeeth can be played dangerous games with, and non Muslims can alter those books as they want, but no one can alter the Noble Qur'aan. This is why Qur'aan is the best refrence in our hands, according to which we can see true hadeeth from none true ones.
Now, and in conclusion I say: prayers were explained fully in Qur'aan, some are clear to all of us to understand, some are little difficult only some of us can, and some we took from our prophet and Imam SAW who was given knowledge from Allah also an order to explain Qur'aan to us, and what Hadeeth about Prayer is given, must be true, when prayer is explained this much, then Muhammad SAW make things clear, then we should accept that Muhammad is doing his Job given to him by an order to explain to us. Now all hadeeth are false if they do not match with Qur'aan, a lot are true and Genuine because they match, let Allah be the Judge through His words and the Noble Qur'aan.
Ayah 39:18 says: those who hear all speaches and follow the best, those who Allah gave guidnce to, and those who have good reflections from the hearts. My Allah makes us among those Insha Allah
The Qur'aan says, "... We have neglected nothing in the Book ..." [Verse 6.38]
And yet, there are a number of things that are not mentioned in the Qur'aan, as, for example, the number of rakaat in the ritual Prayers (Salaat) offered at different times of the day .
Mohammad: Masha Allah what a wonderful post, thank you my brother so very much. Now please allow me to put some sharing in your worshderful post. If you did not read my post about are prayers mentioned in Qur'aan, I amswered a lot about this issue, so please read it, it is in the section of: what Is Islam? Now, as for your saying here: many things are missing from Qur'aan, while Allah says: we left out none, then how you make such a statement my beloved brother, anyway, I did not read all of this post, answering it as I go. Let me share one step at the time, as if each part is a message by itself.
Many Muslims, or let us say most of them say: HAdeeth came to complete Qur'aan, as if the perfect Allah my send an imperfect book, which is so sad on the part of those who say so. Let me say this out clearly and out loud: in regard to our relation with Allah, Allah left nothing out, and if by any chance Allah did, then this is not importatn, because if it is important then Allah would mention it in Qur'aan. How about the number of Rakaas, well, first let us ask: did Allah mention Rakaas in Qur'aan?
Yes, Allah metioned Ruku and Sujud in Qur'aan all over the book, and called prayrs by Salah. Let me first take your attention to an Ayah in Qur'aan this I will base my debate over at this time. Ayah 17:12, if you count the number of the words, Allah mentioned word number 19 the word: Math, when speaking about the day and the night, which relates to three planets, Earth, the Sun and the Moon. When Allah brought the word Math to be number 19 when counting from the first word in the Ayah, then recently we discovered how those three planets come on a straight line every 19 years, then Allah says after Math: and every thing we gave you in full extreme details. This is what Qur'aan looks like, not your average book.
Read gain what I just said, do you think it is easy for any average Muslim to understanf this much, no it is not? nother question: since most Muslims do not even understand anything in Qur'aan, do you think any of those are fit to judge if Rakaas are mentioned or not in Qur'aan, not they are the furthest from such? Therefore, before we say Allah did not mention or forgot, we need to count till one thousand and then think before we utter such words. Now as I am not a Genius about Qur'aan, do you know any one who is, Allh says about a man who worked with Solomon who can bring the Throne of Sheba before Solomon blinks with little knowledge from the book of Allah, do you know any one today with this kind of knowledge, then ask yourself, how much from this book we need to know, and how much we really know about such?
At this time I can share with you a little fact, Surh 17 is the Surah that speaks about the trip of our prophet SAW to the Throne of Allah, during which some stories say: Muhmmad received the number of the Rakaa, whether the stories you know are true or false, and this is as I said is Surah 17, what this number signifies at this point? Count the Obligtory Rakaas, 2 morning, 4 Noon, 4 Aser after noon, 3 Maghrib Evening time, and 4 Isha night time, 2+4+4+3+4=17. Is this a coincedance, Surah 17 about Israa and miraaj, when Muhammad SAW received the number of prayers, to match the number of the Rakaas in its number, think about that, it is clear how we have to think about where a word is mentioned, why a number is given?
You see how easy it is on missing the little thing, and how much study we need to do before we say anything about this miraculous book from Allah. Since Allah said: everything we gave you in extreme details, then it is obvious to have the Surah that speaks about the time when Muhammad received the number of Rakaas to be equal to the number of Rakaas, I hope you can clearly see what I am saying here, remember number 19 in the word Math, and the relation that took us 1400 years to discover and understand? Why 1400 yers, first to keep Qur'aan alive till the end of time, second because there is no rush about this issue, not like the number of Rakaas.
You also sid: In the circumstances, how does one interpret the Verse quoted above, and similar other Verses telling mankind that the divine Book contains explanations on everything? There are many Verses in the Qur'aan, like Verse 6.38, that are strongly indicative of the divine Book being self-sufficient on all matters concerning Islam, the Allah-approved and perfect Religion for the entire mankind. Some such Verses are as follows:
12.111 - ... It is not a concocted hadeeth, but a confirmation of what preceded it and details of every thing and a guidance and a mercy for people who believe.
17.89 - And We have certainly explained, in this Qur'aan, every kind of example ...
18.54 - And We have certainly explained, in this Qur'aan, every kind of example for mankind ...
39.27 - And We have certainly given for mankind, in this Qur'aan, every kind of example for them to remember.
When the Almighty Creator of everything, Himself categorically declares that He has explained everything in His Book, and neglected nothing, we cannot but accept the divine declaration. If we do not, we betray our lack of faith in the Qur'an being the divine Book. So, the believers have no option but to accept that the Qur'aan explains everything that needs to be explained to mankind for the right conduct of their lives on this planet. Here one thing needs to be clearly understood, and that is that, besides the Qur'aan, the All-knowing Allah has granted the boon of a high grade Intellect to mankind. And when the Qur'aan tells us that it has not neglected anything, it obviously means anything that is not grasped through the Intellect. To illustrate this point through a simple example, it would be ridiculous to ask, "If the Qur'aan has neglected nothing, where is the guidance therein for driving a car properly?" This question would be ridiculous because Allah has given us the Intellect to acquire the necessary knowledge and expertise to be able to drive a car. Allah guides us, through the Qur'aan, in matters that cannot be dealt with merely through the use of the Intellect. And it is in such matters that Allah's guidance, through the Qur'aan, is thorough and perfect. That is what the divine Verses, quoted above, tell us.
Mohammad: how wonderful this example is, and how wonderful is the way you gave an answer back, and please as usual allow me to share what I have, I sometimes am a pain in the neck, I know that. If we have the proper knowledge about Qur'aan, be not dismaid if you find Allah spoke about the car, but the Question is: since a car has nothing to do with worshiping Allah, then why any non Muslims ask us to show such from a book that is related to our entrnce to Paradise, and exodus from Hell? If any of you ever faced a silly person who ask about a silly issue saying: did not Allah claim to bring from every example, where is the walk of a Worm is explained, we say: how the worm walks does not matter to our escaping Hell, and seeking Paradise. Not knowing what saves us from Hell is more dangerous than not knowing how the Worms moves about the ground. And as you said Mohammad: we can discover this on our own, no need for Allah to trouble Garbiel to carry this all the way across the seven Skies to reach us with, but on the other hand, do not be surprised if you discover some time Allah mentioned even such.
You said next: Now let us consider the case, specified above, wherein the Qur'aan appears to have missed mentioning some important and necessary detail:
Number of Rakaat in Salaat
The number is of course not mentioned in the Qur'aan. Nor is it unanimously specified, to the best of my knowledge and belief, in the ahaadeeth. Authors of books of Salaat appear to have mentioned the number on the basis of the established practice prevalent at the time of writing those books. In any case, let us consider whether the number is absolutely necessary and important in the eyes of Allah Ta'ala in whose worship the prayers are performed. Since He has not mentioned it in His Book, it goes without saying that it is not absolutely necessary and important in the eyes of Allah. What is absolutely important is what is specifically mentioned in the Qur'aan. And what is mentioned in the Qur'aan is, inter alia, that the prayers be performed devotedly for Allah and for none else. Allah may not question us on the number of rakaat we performed, but He may question us regarding the wanderings of our minds during the performance of those rakaat.
But that apart, the Qur'aan does not prevent us from following the practice prevalent as regards the number of rakaat. Herein comes the role for our Allah-given boon of Intellect. Since Allah has directed us to perform our salaat in congregation preferably, we have to perform the same number of rakaat as the Imam does. And for the sake of uniformity, it would be preferable to follow the prevalent practice in this regard. But Allah has purposely not prescribed the number to enable His devotees to make adjustments suitable to any abnormal situation that may arise at the time of the prayer. Far from being a neglect, this is really a Mercy from Him .
To conclude,
the number of rakaat is not an absolutely necessary and importanct aspect of a salaat,
the Qur'aan does not, nevertheless, prevent us from following the prevalent practice in this regard, for the sake of uniformity,
the Qur'aan has not prescribed any number for the rakaat, to enable an adjustment to suit any abnormal situation,
far from being a neglect, this is really a Mercy from Allah, and,
the Qur'aan is the self-sufficient source for Islam.
Mohammad: wonderful ending you did here, thanks. Ok, now comes the trouble maker (me), you and all of others here mong the wonderful memebers do remember the Ayah, however let me bring it for a reminder to all of us. Ayah 16:44 sys:
??????? ???? ????? ????? ????? ?? ??? ????? ?????? ???????
Please notice the words I underlined, now here is the Interpretation of those Noble words: "and we gave you the Qur'aan, so that you will reveal and explain to the people what Allah gave them, and may they reflect about.
What we have here in this Ayah, and which is extremely important, please pay extreme attention to such? Allah is saying: He gave Muhammad the Qur'aan (Called it by Ziker), and said: so that Muhammad may explain what Allah gave us, and perhaps this will make us think about. As An Arab, I noticed something that no Translation, and no none Arab giving Interpreattion to the Qur'aan is capable of giving you such, so please listen up. Allah says: and we gave you the Qur'aan (Zikir), so that you will explain to the people what was brought for them, makes one like me wonder, does this means how Allah brought in Qur'aan things for others besides mankind?
Notice the words: to explain to people, what was given to them, then this Qur'aan has things not given to mankind, you will ask: who else is there, please listen to this: Do you remember the bird of Solomon, who came explaining to Solomon about the people of Sheba, listen to what this bird said: I found a woman (it knew Gender), ruling over them it knows what rule is all about. The bird spoke a lot, explaining in a manner the best of us fail to explain this situation at hand, knew Allah and worship, please go read Ayahs 27:22-29. Look at how this bird started speaking to the wisest among the wise, Solomon: I know what you do not know, this bird claimed knowledge even the wisest man didnt have . Read the speach of this bird to Solomon, then wonder, is in this Qur'aan something for birds, for the Fish, for the animals, before you answer, please read this Ayah 21:79: which speaks how the mountains and the birds praise Allah, this is why I ask: is there in Qur'aan something for people to be explained, and things only other creatures understand? How?
Look at the Jinn, Ayah 72:2 says: some Jinn listened to Qur'aan from Muhammad SAW and said: we heard marvelous Qur'aan. What Jinn understood, how did they reach this conclusion this fast, took Muhammad 12 yers at Mekka with people and only 40 men and one woman came to Allah, what Jinn saw from little time in the company of the Ayahs of Allah we people till now cannot speak like they spoke saying: Qur'aan Ajaba (which is above any normal, over all expectations), 1400 years and none of us Muslims see Qur'aan as such, we say it is, but can we prove that, yes I know some of us can, but remember those were ordinary Jinn, just happened to pass by according to the wish from Allah.
What I am trying to tell you about all of this, please do not forget, as I started drawing your attention: we know very little about Qur'aan, you know something, I wish, and I dream if Muslims start studying Qur'aan as hard as they criticize it, I wish they start studying Qur'aan as hard as they study silly books that are so much less, and do not compare to the words of Allah, you know why? If we do, I personally promise you: Allah will open from Qur'aan windows that make us see what takes us thousands of years of study, we can see in no time. I know this from personal experiance, I found things others did not, just because I gave Allah some of my time.
Again, what I am trying to say here, and I am sorry I made this post this long? Please do remember how we do not know Qur'aan this well to say: Rakaas are not mentioned, I gave you a hint, simple and easy to understand, but also remember and do not neglict Muhammad was given the knowledge to explain what we need to know, which makes some Hadeeth is true and Genuine, but how we can tell the true Hadeeth from thefalse ones? Those who depend on the books of Hadeeth are so sad, and so ignorant, we all need to make Qur'aan and Allah as our standard. Compare Hadeeth with Qur'aan, when Hadeeth explains Qur'aan, then this is a fulfillment to the order of Allah when He ordered Muhammad SAW to explain Qur'aan to us. This is how we know true Hadeeth from wrong ones, while even the books of Hadeeth can be played dangerous games with, and non Muslims can alter those books as they want, but no one can alter the Noble Qur'aan. This is why Qur'aan is the best refrence in our hands, according to which we can see true hadeeth from none true ones.
Now, and in conclusion I say: prayers were explained fully in Qur'aan, some are clear to all of us to understand, some are little difficult only some of us can, and some we took from our prophet and Imam SAW who was given knowledge from Allah also an order to explain Qur'aan to us, and what Hadeeth about Prayer is given, must be true, when prayer is explained this much, then Muhammad SAW make things clear, then we should accept that Muhammad is doing his Job given to him by an order to explain to us. Now all hadeeth are false if they do not match with Qur'aan, a lot are true and Genuine because they match, let Allah be the Judge through His words and the Noble Qur'aan.
Ayah 39:18 says: those who hear all speaches and follow the best, those who Allah gave guidnce to, and those who have good reflections from the hearts. My Allah makes us among those Insha Allah
When Will Britain and America Apologize for Slavery?
Bismillah, ASA
Likewise when will the man who sleeps in a White House built by Black Slaves, and U.S. legislators who work in a Capitol building built by slaves, bring themselves to make a formal government apology to the world in general and the descendants of those slaves in particular, for their role in slavery? How can they sleep and work without their conscience bothering them daily?
Peace, Curtis Sharif
Houston, Texas
"G.Waleed Kavalec" <kavalec@gmail.com> wrote:
-----
*Why I am saying sorry for London's role in this horror.*
The state failure to issue an apology for a crime as monstrous as the slave
trade diminishes Britain in the eyes of the world.
By Kenneth Robert Livingstone
(Mr. Livingsrone is the Mayor of London)
Wednesday March 21, 2007
Next Sunday marks the bicentenary of the abolition of one of history's
greatest crimes - the transatlantic slave trade. The British government must
formally apologise for it. All attempts to evade this are weasel words.
Delay demeans our country. Recalling the slave trade's dimensions will show
why. Conservative estimates of the numbers transported are 10-15 million;
others range up to 30 million. Deaths started immediately, as many as 5% in
prisons before transportation and more than 10% during the voyage - the
direct murder of some 2 million people.
Conditions imposed on survivors were unimaginable. Virginia made it lawful
"to kill and destroy such negroes" who "absent themselves from ... service".
Branding and rape were commonplace.
A Jamaican planter, Thomas Thistlewood,
in 1756 had a slave "well flogged and pickled, then made Hector shit in his
mouth" for eating sugar cane.
From 1707, punishment for rebellion included
"nailing them to the ground" and "applying fire by degrees from the feet and
hands, burning them gradually up to the head".
When in 1736 Antigua found there was to be a rebellion, five ringleaders
were broken on the wheel, 77 burned to death, six hung in cages to die of
thirst. For "lesser" crimes, castration or chopping off half the foot were
used. A manual noted: "Terror must operate to keep them in subjection."
Barbarism's consequences were clear. More than 1.5 million slaves were taken
to the British Caribbean islands in the 18th century, but by its end there
were only 600,000. By 1820, more than 10 million Africans had been
transported across the Atlantic and 2 million Europeans had moved. But the
European population grew to 12 million while the black slave population
shrank to 6 million.
If the murder of millions, and torture of millions more, is not "a crime
against humanity", these words have no meaning. To justify murder and
torture on an industrial scale, black people had to be declared inferior, or
not human. As historian James Walvin noted, there was a "form of bondage
which, from an early date, was highly racialised. By 1750, to be black in
the Americas (and often in Europe) was to be enslaved." The 1774 History of
Jamaica argued black slaves were a different species, able to work "in a
very bungling and slovenly manner, perhaps not better than an orangutan".
Material being produced today to mark the anniversary of the abolition of
the slave trade makes it appear that white people liberated black - the
assumption being they could not do it themselves. In reality, slaves rose
against the trade from its inception. This broke it.
The first recorded slave revolt was in 1570. There were at least 250
shipboard rebellions. Jamaican slave society faced a serious revolt every
decade, in addition to prolonged guerrilla war. In 1760, 30,000 Jamaican
slaves revolted. The culmination, recorded in CLR James's magisterial The
Black Jacobins, was the 1791 slave revolt in St Domingue. After abolition of
the trade, slavery in British possessions was abolished following revolts in
Barbados in 1816, Demerara in 1823, and Jamaica in 1831, in which 60,000
slaves participated. For this reason Unesco officially marks August 23, the
anniversary of the St Domingue rebellion's outbreak, as slavery's official
remembrance day.
No one denigrates William Wilberforce, but it was black resistance and
economic development that destroyed slavery, not white philanthropy.
Slavery's reality is increasingly acknowledged outside Britain. One of the
few things on which I agree with George Bush is his description of
transatlantic slavery as "one of the greatest crimes of history".
The
Virginia general assembly last month expressed "profound regret" for its
role, stating slavery "ranks as the most horrendous of all depredations of
human rights and violations of our founding ideals".
The French national
assembly declared slavery a "crime against humanity".
n 1999, Liverpool
became the first major British slaving city to formally apologise. The
Church of England Synod followed suit.
The British government's refusal of such an apology is squalid. Until
recently, almost unbelievably, it refused even to recognise the slave trade
as a crime against humanity, on the grounds that it was legal at the time.
It helped block an EU apology for slavery.
Two arguments are brought forward against official apology - not only by the
government but by David Cameron. First, an apology is unnecessary because
this happened a long time ago. This would only apply if there had been a
previously apology - there hasn't been. Slavery was the mass murder of
millions of people. Germany apologised for the Holocaust. We must for the
slave trade.
Second, that apologising is "national self-hate". This is nonsense. Love of
one's country and its achievements is based on reality, not denying it. A
Britain that contributed Shakespeare, Newton and Darwin to human
civilisation need fear comparison with no one. A British state that refuses
to apologise for a crime on such a gigantic scale as the slave trade merely
lowers our country in the opinion of the world.
It is for that reason that I invite all representatives of London society to
join me in following the example of Virginia, France, Liverpool and the
Church of England, by formally apologising for London's role in this
monstrous crime.
UK News paper.
Likewise when will the man who sleeps in a White House built by Black Slaves, and U.S. legislators who work in a Capitol building built by slaves, bring themselves to make a formal government apology to the world in general and the descendants of those slaves in particular, for their role in slavery? How can they sleep and work without their conscience bothering them daily?
Peace, Curtis Sharif
Houston, Texas
"G.Waleed Kavalec" <kavalec@gmail.com> wrote:
-----
*Why I am saying sorry for London's role in this horror.*
The state failure to issue an apology for a crime as monstrous as the slave
trade diminishes Britain in the eyes of the world.
By Kenneth Robert Livingstone
(Mr. Livingsrone is the Mayor of London)
Wednesday March 21, 2007
Next Sunday marks the bicentenary of the abolition of one of history's
greatest crimes - the transatlantic slave trade. The British government must
formally apologise for it. All attempts to evade this are weasel words.
Delay demeans our country. Recalling the slave trade's dimensions will show
why. Conservative estimates of the numbers transported are 10-15 million;
others range up to 30 million. Deaths started immediately, as many as 5% in
prisons before transportation and more than 10% during the voyage - the
direct murder of some 2 million people.
Conditions imposed on survivors were unimaginable. Virginia made it lawful
"to kill and destroy such negroes" who "absent themselves from ... service".
Branding and rape were commonplace.
A Jamaican planter, Thomas Thistlewood,
in 1756 had a slave "well flogged and pickled, then made Hector shit in his
mouth" for eating sugar cane.
From 1707, punishment for rebellion included
"nailing them to the ground" and "applying fire by degrees from the feet and
hands, burning them gradually up to the head".
When in 1736 Antigua found there was to be a rebellion, five ringleaders
were broken on the wheel, 77 burned to death, six hung in cages to die of
thirst. For "lesser" crimes, castration or chopping off half the foot were
used. A manual noted: "Terror must operate to keep them in subjection."
Barbarism's consequences were clear. More than 1.5 million slaves were taken
to the British Caribbean islands in the 18th century, but by its end there
were only 600,000. By 1820, more than 10 million Africans had been
transported across the Atlantic and 2 million Europeans had moved. But the
European population grew to 12 million while the black slave population
shrank to 6 million.
If the murder of millions, and torture of millions more, is not "a crime
against humanity", these words have no meaning. To justify murder and
torture on an industrial scale, black people had to be declared inferior, or
not human. As historian James Walvin noted, there was a "form of bondage
which, from an early date, was highly racialised. By 1750, to be black in
the Americas (and often in Europe) was to be enslaved." The 1774 History of
Jamaica argued black slaves were a different species, able to work "in a
very bungling and slovenly manner, perhaps not better than an orangutan".
Material being produced today to mark the anniversary of the abolition of
the slave trade makes it appear that white people liberated black - the
assumption being they could not do it themselves. In reality, slaves rose
against the trade from its inception. This broke it.
The first recorded slave revolt was in 1570. There were at least 250
shipboard rebellions. Jamaican slave society faced a serious revolt every
decade, in addition to prolonged guerrilla war. In 1760, 30,000 Jamaican
slaves revolted. The culmination, recorded in CLR James's magisterial The
Black Jacobins, was the 1791 slave revolt in St Domingue. After abolition of
the trade, slavery in British possessions was abolished following revolts in
Barbados in 1816, Demerara in 1823, and Jamaica in 1831, in which 60,000
slaves participated. For this reason Unesco officially marks August 23, the
anniversary of the St Domingue rebellion's outbreak, as slavery's official
remembrance day.
No one denigrates William Wilberforce, but it was black resistance and
economic development that destroyed slavery, not white philanthropy.
Slavery's reality is increasingly acknowledged outside Britain. One of the
few things on which I agree with George Bush is his description of
transatlantic slavery as "one of the greatest crimes of history".
The
Virginia general assembly last month expressed "profound regret" for its
role, stating slavery "ranks as the most horrendous of all depredations of
human rights and violations of our founding ideals".
The French national
assembly declared slavery a "crime against humanity".
n 1999, Liverpool
became the first major British slaving city to formally apologise. The
Church of England Synod followed suit.
The British government's refusal of such an apology is squalid. Until
recently, almost unbelievably, it refused even to recognise the slave trade
as a crime against humanity, on the grounds that it was legal at the time.
It helped block an EU apology for slavery.
Two arguments are brought forward against official apology - not only by the
government but by David Cameron. First, an apology is unnecessary because
this happened a long time ago. This would only apply if there had been a
previously apology - there hasn't been. Slavery was the mass murder of
millions of people. Germany apologised for the Holocaust. We must for the
slave trade.
Second, that apologising is "national self-hate". This is nonsense. Love of
one's country and its achievements is based on reality, not denying it. A
Britain that contributed Shakespeare, Newton and Darwin to human
civilisation need fear comparison with no one. A British state that refuses
to apologise for a crime on such a gigantic scale as the slave trade merely
lowers our country in the opinion of the world.
It is for that reason that I invite all representatives of London society to
join me in following the example of Virginia, France, Liverpool and the
Church of England, by formally apologising for London's role in this
monstrous crime.
UK News paper.
Amazing Interview with a 14 years old new Muslimah !
Those whom Allah (in His Plan) willeth to guide He openeth their breast to Islam; those whom He willeth to leave straying He maketh their breast close and constricted as if they had to climb up to the skies: thus doth Allah (heap) the penalty on those who refuse to believe. {Al An'am (06:125}
Allah is the Guide of those who believe to the Straight Way. --- (Al Hajj: 54)
Amazing Interview with a 14 years old new Muslimah!
Islamway.com
The way she speaks is really impressive .. after my conversation with her .. I thought that I must tell her the fact that she is very mature . please read her words .. and distribute it ..
IslamWay.com:
Dear Sister .. As-salamu alaykum wa rahmatu Allah sister , first of all . Congratulations for accepting Islam
Sara:
wa alaikum assalam, thank-you
IslamWay.com:
Can you give us brief information about yourself ?
Sara:
My name is Sara, I am 14 years old and in high school. I live in the U.S.
IslamWay.com:
Welcome sister Sara .. I'm really amazed to see someone in your age searching for the truth .. let me admit that .. Can you tell us .. how did you know about Islam for the first time in your life ?
Sara:
Yes, the first time I heard about Islam was about 3 years ago, I was curious about God and religion and wanted to know what others believed. I started reading different materials and read about Islam. I was amazed by how much sense it made.
IslamWay.com:
Isn't it kind of strange to start reading about religions when you were 11 years old .. is there is any special thing that you have other than other kids around you ?
Sara -smiling-:
I suppose it is strange to read about religion at 11, most my friends didn't understand how I could be so interested in finding God. My family is Christian, and I have been raised in religion, so it seemed only natural for me to study religion thoroughly and decide on my own what the truth was.
IslamWay.com:
Did you read the Quran ?
Sara:
Not at that time, no.
IslamWay.com:
"A Muslim woman is oppressed and needs to be librated like the western women" .. do you have a comment about this ?
Sara:
It saddens me that so many people in the world today believe that Muslim women are oppressed. I believe that we are the most liberated women on earth! To follow the guidelines Allah has given us is the most liberating thing any woman can do.
IslamWay.com:
Well .. from what you see in the west .. are the women there librated ?
Sara:
No, most women in the west are oppressed. We are used as sex symbols. Most women wear outfits that barely cover them, they use their bodies to get attention. We are expected to have 'perfect' bodies by the media's standards, we are supposed to look and act a certain way, and we are expected to do whatever the media tells us to do, and that is to disrespect ourselves and Allah.
IslamWay.com:
So did you wear the hijab ?
Sara:
No I do not. I would like to very much, but my family is unaware that I converted to Islam, and I will wear the hijab after I tell them.
IslamWay.com:
You think that you will have problems with them after telling them ?
Sara:
I'm not sure. I supose I am allowing my fear to keep me from telling them.
IslamWay.com:
I see .. Just ask Allah to give your the power and the patience to take this step .. and I guess all Muslims who are reading this interview now will make du'a for you to ease things in sha Allah ..
IslamWay.com:
What is the thing you liked most in the Muslims community ?
Sara:
I admire the dedication Muslims have to Islam, there is an amazing peace and grace that Allah gives to those who serve him as completely as they can. To many it may seem hard to follow Allah's guidelines, but Allah gives every Muslim an amazing strength to help them. What I liked most about the Muslims I met was how friendly and caring they were.
IslamWay.com:
"Most of Muslims nowadays are not practicing Muslims .. " first of all . what do you feel about that ? And is that why Islam is not spreading too fast ? And what would you say to a none pracitcing Muslim ?
Sara:
1) I firmly believe that the statement "Most Muslims nowadays are not practicing Muslims .. " is false. I do not believe you can truly be Muslim without being a 'practicing Muslim'. Islam isn't just a religion, it's a way of life. That's one of the many things I love about it.
2) Islam is one of the fastest growing religions in the world, I believe the reason for this is that people see the truth in it, and when they decide to live to serve Allah, they are given an amazing happiness and grace that others see and admire, that is what draws people to Islam.
3) Trust Allah, serve him completely, and he will give you the grace, peace, and happiness you need to be a 'practicing Muslim'.
IslamWay.com:
What is your future plans ? Your dreams ?
Sara:
I've always had a dream: To become a leader in our world and once again help establish peace and good relations between different people.
IslamWay.com:
Do you have any plans for learning arabic ?
Sara:
Yes. i LOVE languages. It's something that i enjoy very much, and my parents support my Arabic education, I will hopefully begin taking a language course this Fall. My dad lived in an Arabic speaking country for years, and so he would help me study.
IslamWay.com:
oh i see .. which country ?
Sara:
Sudan (in Africa)
IslamWay.com:
Can you tell us in details how did you revert to Islam ?
Sara:
I had originally heard about Islam about 3 years ago, my parents found out that I was reading about it and discouraged me from doing so, studying it much further. Then last Fall I started highschool at a new school that has a lot of Muslim students.
When I first started going there I remembered my studying and was curious about how they would act. My parents had told me Muslims were horrible mean, militant, abusive people. So I kind of expected them to be that way, I was wrong! The first couple of friends I made there were Muslims.
They were nice, friendly, caring people. I remember them talking about their God, and I was amazed by how much they loved Islam. I began very quickly began respect them, and quickly became very curious about their beliefs. A friend of mine asked them about Islam one day, and it turned into a several hour long conversation about Allah, and Islam, and daily life. I was suprised by how much sense it all made, and how happy they were. I began reading the Qur'an and looking for more information on the internet, and soon after I said the shahadah and converted to Islam. I'm still amazed by how happy and peacefull my life is. Allah has given me much strength in every day life. Inshallah my parents will see this.
IslamWay.com:
In sha Allah .. May Allah reward you sister for your time .. and may Allah keep you in the right path .. Amen .. As-salamu alaykum
Sara:
wa alaikum assalam, thank-you
Courtesy: Sister Nazia Shaheen Ahmed, E G Y P T
With Kind Regards
Mohammad Usman
Jeddah
SAUDI ARABIA
Allah is the Guide of those who believe to the Straight Way. --- (Al Hajj: 54)
Amazing Interview with a 14 years old new Muslimah!
Islamway.com
The way she speaks is really impressive .. after my conversation with her .. I thought that I must tell her the fact that she is very mature . please read her words .. and distribute it ..
IslamWay.com:
Dear Sister .. As-salamu alaykum wa rahmatu Allah sister , first of all . Congratulations for accepting Islam
Sara:
wa alaikum assalam, thank-you
IslamWay.com:
Can you give us brief information about yourself ?
Sara:
My name is Sara, I am 14 years old and in high school. I live in the U.S.
IslamWay.com:
Welcome sister Sara .. I'm really amazed to see someone in your age searching for the truth .. let me admit that .. Can you tell us .. how did you know about Islam for the first time in your life ?
Sara:
Yes, the first time I heard about Islam was about 3 years ago, I was curious about God and religion and wanted to know what others believed. I started reading different materials and read about Islam. I was amazed by how much sense it made.
IslamWay.com:
Isn't it kind of strange to start reading about religions when you were 11 years old .. is there is any special thing that you have other than other kids around you ?
Sara -smiling-:
I suppose it is strange to read about religion at 11, most my friends didn't understand how I could be so interested in finding God. My family is Christian, and I have been raised in religion, so it seemed only natural for me to study religion thoroughly and decide on my own what the truth was.
IslamWay.com:
Did you read the Quran ?
Sara:
Not at that time, no.
IslamWay.com:
"A Muslim woman is oppressed and needs to be librated like the western women" .. do you have a comment about this ?
Sara:
It saddens me that so many people in the world today believe that Muslim women are oppressed. I believe that we are the most liberated women on earth! To follow the guidelines Allah has given us is the most liberating thing any woman can do.
IslamWay.com:
Well .. from what you see in the west .. are the women there librated ?
Sara:
No, most women in the west are oppressed. We are used as sex symbols. Most women wear outfits that barely cover them, they use their bodies to get attention. We are expected to have 'perfect' bodies by the media's standards, we are supposed to look and act a certain way, and we are expected to do whatever the media tells us to do, and that is to disrespect ourselves and Allah.
IslamWay.com:
So did you wear the hijab ?
Sara:
No I do not. I would like to very much, but my family is unaware that I converted to Islam, and I will wear the hijab after I tell them.
IslamWay.com:
You think that you will have problems with them after telling them ?
Sara:
I'm not sure. I supose I am allowing my fear to keep me from telling them.
IslamWay.com:
I see .. Just ask Allah to give your the power and the patience to take this step .. and I guess all Muslims who are reading this interview now will make du'a for you to ease things in sha Allah ..
IslamWay.com:
What is the thing you liked most in the Muslims community ?
Sara:
I admire the dedication Muslims have to Islam, there is an amazing peace and grace that Allah gives to those who serve him as completely as they can. To many it may seem hard to follow Allah's guidelines, but Allah gives every Muslim an amazing strength to help them. What I liked most about the Muslims I met was how friendly and caring they were.
IslamWay.com:
"Most of Muslims nowadays are not practicing Muslims .. " first of all . what do you feel about that ? And is that why Islam is not spreading too fast ? And what would you say to a none pracitcing Muslim ?
Sara:
1) I firmly believe that the statement "Most Muslims nowadays are not practicing Muslims .. " is false. I do not believe you can truly be Muslim without being a 'practicing Muslim'. Islam isn't just a religion, it's a way of life. That's one of the many things I love about it.
2) Islam is one of the fastest growing religions in the world, I believe the reason for this is that people see the truth in it, and when they decide to live to serve Allah, they are given an amazing happiness and grace that others see and admire, that is what draws people to Islam.
3) Trust Allah, serve him completely, and he will give you the grace, peace, and happiness you need to be a 'practicing Muslim'.
IslamWay.com:
What is your future plans ? Your dreams ?
Sara:
I've always had a dream: To become a leader in our world and once again help establish peace and good relations between different people.
IslamWay.com:
Do you have any plans for learning arabic ?
Sara:
Yes. i LOVE languages. It's something that i enjoy very much, and my parents support my Arabic education, I will hopefully begin taking a language course this Fall. My dad lived in an Arabic speaking country for years, and so he would help me study.
IslamWay.com:
oh i see .. which country ?
Sara:
Sudan (in Africa)
IslamWay.com:
Can you tell us in details how did you revert to Islam ?
Sara:
I had originally heard about Islam about 3 years ago, my parents found out that I was reading about it and discouraged me from doing so, studying it much further. Then last Fall I started highschool at a new school that has a lot of Muslim students.
When I first started going there I remembered my studying and was curious about how they would act. My parents had told me Muslims were horrible mean, militant, abusive people. So I kind of expected them to be that way, I was wrong! The first couple of friends I made there were Muslims.
They were nice, friendly, caring people. I remember them talking about their God, and I was amazed by how much they loved Islam. I began very quickly began respect them, and quickly became very curious about their beliefs. A friend of mine asked them about Islam one day, and it turned into a several hour long conversation about Allah, and Islam, and daily life. I was suprised by how much sense it all made, and how happy they were. I began reading the Qur'an and looking for more information on the internet, and soon after I said the shahadah and converted to Islam. I'm still amazed by how happy and peacefull my life is. Allah has given me much strength in every day life. Inshallah my parents will see this.
IslamWay.com:
In sha Allah .. May Allah reward you sister for your time .. and may Allah keep you in the right path .. Amen .. As-salamu alaykum
Sara:
wa alaikum assalam, thank-you
Courtesy: Sister Nazia Shaheen Ahmed, E G Y P T
With Kind Regards
Mohammad Usman
Jeddah
SAUDI ARABIA
Sunday, April 29, 2007
How the Shaytaan has a share in people's wealth
Question:
What is the share that the Shaytaan has in people's wealth, as mentioned in the aayah (interpretation of the meaning): "share with them wealth and children (by tempting them to earn money by illegal ways usury, or by committing illegal sexual intercourse),"[al-Israa' 17:64]?
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
The share that he has in their wealth is when they spend it in disobeying Allaah. This was the view of al-Hasan. And it was said that it is that which is acquired from sources which are not halaal. This was the view of Mujaahid.
Ibn `Abbaas said: (it means) the things they used to forbid such as al-baheerah (a she-camel whose milk was spared for the idols and nobody was allowed to milk it), al-saa'ibah (a she-camel let loose for free pasture for their false gods, and nothing was allowed to be carried on it), al-waseelah (a she-camel set free for idols because it had given birth to a she-camel at its first delivery and then again gave birth to a she-camel at its second delivery) and al-haam (a stallion-camel freed freed from work for their idols after it had finished a number of copulations assigned for it). This was the view of Qutaadah. Al-Dahhaak said: (it means) what they used to sacrifice to their gods.
It was narrated from Ibn `Abbaas and Mujaahid: this is what he (the Shaytaan) commands them to do of spending their wealth in disobeying Allaah. `Ataa' said: this means riba (usury, interest). Al-Hasan said: this means acquiring it (wealth) from evil sources and spending it in haraam ways. This was also the view of Qutaadah. Al-`Awfi said, narrating from Ibn `Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with them both): with regard to his sharing in their wealth, this means that which he forbade them of their an'aam (livestock such as camels, cattle, etc.), i.e., the baheerah, saa'ibah, etc. This was also the view of al-Dahhaak and Qutaadah.
Al-Tabari said:
The view which is most likely to be correct is the view of those who said that what this meant was every kind of wealth which involved disobeying Allaah, whether it was spent on haraam things, earned from haraam sources, sacrificed to their gods, instituted as a saa'ibah or baheerah for the Shaytaan, or other ways by means of which it was spent in disobedience (towards Allaah). That is because Allaah said (interpretation of the meaning): "share with them wealth". So every kind of wealth by means of which the Shaytaan is obeyed and Allaah is disobeyed, the one who does that has given Iblees a share in it; there is no reason why one specific meaning should be intended to the exclusion of others (i.e., the meaning is general).
With regard to the Shaytaan sharing in food and drink _ to which his sharing in staying overnight in people's houses, which are also a form of wealth, is also added _ in the case of those who do not mention the name of Allaah, this is mentioned in the hadeeth of Jaabir ibn `Abd-Allaah, who said that he heard the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say: "When a man enters his house and remembers Allaah [i.e., says Bismillaah] when he enters and when he eats, the Shaytaan says, `You have no place to stay and no dinner.' If he enters and does not remember Allaah when entering, the Shaytaan says, `You have found a place to stay.' If he does not remember Allaah when he eats, [the Shaytaan] says, `You have found a place to stay and dinner.'"
(Narrated by Muslim, 2018).
It was narrated that Hudhayfah said: When we ate with the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), we would not stretch forth our hands until the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) stretched forth his hand first. We were going to eat with him one time, when a young girl came rushing as if she were being pushed. She went to stretch forth her hand to the food, but the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) took hold of her hand. Then a Bedouin came rushing as if he were being pushed, and he took hold of his hand. Then the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "The Shaytaan regards food as permissible (for himself) if the name of Allaah is not mentioned over it. He brought this girl so that the food might become permissible for him through her, but I took her hand. Then he brought this Bedouin so that the food might become permissible for him through him, but I took his hand. By the One in Whose hand is my soul, his hand is in mine along with her hand." This was narrated by Muslim, 2017.
Al-Nawawi said:
The correct view, which is that of the majority of scholars of the earlier and later generations, scholars of hadeeth, fiqh and kalaam, is that this hadeeth and similar ahaadeeth which were narrated concerning the Shaytaan eating are to be interpreted according to their apparent meaning. The Shaytaan eats in a real sense, because rationally this is not impossible and sharee'ah does not deny it, rather it confirms it. So we must accept it and believe in it. And Allaah knows best.
Sharh Muslim, 13/190.
What is the share that the Shaytaan has in people's wealth, as mentioned in the aayah (interpretation of the meaning): "share with them wealth and children (by tempting them to earn money by illegal ways usury, or by committing illegal sexual intercourse),"[al-Israa' 17:64]?
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
The share that he has in their wealth is when they spend it in disobeying Allaah. This was the view of al-Hasan. And it was said that it is that which is acquired from sources which are not halaal. This was the view of Mujaahid.
Ibn `Abbaas said: (it means) the things they used to forbid such as al-baheerah (a she-camel whose milk was spared for the idols and nobody was allowed to milk it), al-saa'ibah (a she-camel let loose for free pasture for their false gods, and nothing was allowed to be carried on it), al-waseelah (a she-camel set free for idols because it had given birth to a she-camel at its first delivery and then again gave birth to a she-camel at its second delivery) and al-haam (a stallion-camel freed freed from work for their idols after it had finished a number of copulations assigned for it). This was the view of Qutaadah. Al-Dahhaak said: (it means) what they used to sacrifice to their gods.
It was narrated from Ibn `Abbaas and Mujaahid: this is what he (the Shaytaan) commands them to do of spending their wealth in disobeying Allaah. `Ataa' said: this means riba (usury, interest). Al-Hasan said: this means acquiring it (wealth) from evil sources and spending it in haraam ways. This was also the view of Qutaadah. Al-`Awfi said, narrating from Ibn `Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with them both): with regard to his sharing in their wealth, this means that which he forbade them of their an'aam (livestock such as camels, cattle, etc.), i.e., the baheerah, saa'ibah, etc. This was also the view of al-Dahhaak and Qutaadah.
Al-Tabari said:
The view which is most likely to be correct is the view of those who said that what this meant was every kind of wealth which involved disobeying Allaah, whether it was spent on haraam things, earned from haraam sources, sacrificed to their gods, instituted as a saa'ibah or baheerah for the Shaytaan, or other ways by means of which it was spent in disobedience (towards Allaah). That is because Allaah said (interpretation of the meaning): "share with them wealth". So every kind of wealth by means of which the Shaytaan is obeyed and Allaah is disobeyed, the one who does that has given Iblees a share in it; there is no reason why one specific meaning should be intended to the exclusion of others (i.e., the meaning is general).
With regard to the Shaytaan sharing in food and drink _ to which his sharing in staying overnight in people's houses, which are also a form of wealth, is also added _ in the case of those who do not mention the name of Allaah, this is mentioned in the hadeeth of Jaabir ibn `Abd-Allaah, who said that he heard the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say: "When a man enters his house and remembers Allaah [i.e., says Bismillaah] when he enters and when he eats, the Shaytaan says, `You have no place to stay and no dinner.' If he enters and does not remember Allaah when entering, the Shaytaan says, `You have found a place to stay.' If he does not remember Allaah when he eats, [the Shaytaan] says, `You have found a place to stay and dinner.'"
(Narrated by Muslim, 2018).
It was narrated that Hudhayfah said: When we ate with the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), we would not stretch forth our hands until the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) stretched forth his hand first. We were going to eat with him one time, when a young girl came rushing as if she were being pushed. She went to stretch forth her hand to the food, but the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) took hold of her hand. Then a Bedouin came rushing as if he were being pushed, and he took hold of his hand. Then the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "The Shaytaan regards food as permissible (for himself) if the name of Allaah is not mentioned over it. He brought this girl so that the food might become permissible for him through her, but I took her hand. Then he brought this Bedouin so that the food might become permissible for him through him, but I took his hand. By the One in Whose hand is my soul, his hand is in mine along with her hand." This was narrated by Muslim, 2017.
Al-Nawawi said:
The correct view, which is that of the majority of scholars of the earlier and later generations, scholars of hadeeth, fiqh and kalaam, is that this hadeeth and similar ahaadeeth which were narrated concerning the Shaytaan eating are to be interpreted according to their apparent meaning. The Shaytaan eats in a real sense, because rationally this is not impossible and sharee'ah does not deny it, rather it confirms it. So we must accept it and believe in it. And Allaah knows best.
Sharh Muslim, 13/190.
The last call (humor)
A man dashes into the Pope's office, panting, gasping, and trying to speak all at once.
"What's the matter?" the Pope asks, offering the man a seat.
"Oh your Grace!" the man exclaims, flopping on the chair.
"I have good news and I have bad news. Which would you like to hear first?"
"Give me the good news," the Pope says.
"Oh your Grace! JESUS is on the phone and he wants to speak to you!" the panting man exclaims.
"Praise the Lord!" the jublilant Pope replies,
"What could the bad news "possibly be?"
"Your Grace, he's calling form Mecca!"
"What's the matter?" the Pope asks, offering the man a seat.
"Oh your Grace!" the man exclaims, flopping on the chair.
"I have good news and I have bad news. Which would you like to hear first?"
"Give me the good news," the Pope says.
"Oh your Grace! JESUS is on the phone and he wants to speak to you!" the panting man exclaims.
"Praise the Lord!" the jublilant Pope replies,
"What could the bad news "possibly be?"
"Your Grace, he's calling form Mecca!"
How the Shaytaan has a share in people's children
Question:
Is it true that if a person does not say "Bismillaah" before having intercourse, the Shaytaan shares with him in that?
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
With regard to the Shaytaan having a share when one does not say Bismillaah, Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
"share with them wealth and children (by tempting them to earn money by illegal ways usury, or by committing illegal sexual intercourse),"
[al-Israa' 17:64]
Al-Qurtubi said: i.e., give yourself a share in that…
"children": it was said that this means the children of zina (fornication, adultery). This was the view of Mujaahid, al-Dahhaak and `Abd-Allaah ibn `Abbaas. It was also narrated that he said, this refers to the children whom they killed and against whom they committed other crimes. It was also narrated that he said, this refers to when they call them by names such as `Abd al-Haarith, `Abd al-`Uzza, `Abd al-Laat, `Abd al-Shams [i.e., names meaning "slave of…" referring to their false gods]. And it was said that this refers to their initiating their children into kufr so that they make them into Jews or Christians, as the Christians do with their children when they baptize them with water. This was the view of Qutaadah.
The fifth view was narrated from Mujaahid who said: If a man has intercourse and does not mention the name of Allaah, the jinn wraps himself around his penis and has intercourse along with him. This is what is referred to in the aayah (interpretation of the meaning):
"with whom no man or jinni has had Tamth [sexual intercourse] before them"
[al-Rahmaan 55:56]
Tafseer al-Qurtubi, 10/289
Ibn Katheer said:
" `share with them wealth and children (by tempting them to earn money by illegal ways usury, or by committing illegal sexual intercourse)'
[al-Israa' 17:64 _ interpretation of the meaning]
`children': al-`Awfi said, narrating from Ibn `Abbaas, Mujaahid and al-Dahhaak: this means the children of zina. `Ali ibn Abi Talhah said, narrating from Ibn `Abbaas: this refers to their children whom they used to kill from folly, without knowledge. Qutaadah said, narrating from al-Hasan al-Basri: by Allaah, he had a share with them in their children by making them Magians, Jews and Christians, so that they followed a religion other than the religion of Allaah and gave a share of their wealth to the Shaytaan. This was also the view of Qutaadah. Abu Saalih said, narrating from Ibn `Abbaas: this refers to when they give their children names such as `Abd al-Haarith, `Abd al-Shams and so on.
Ibn Jareer said: The most correct view is that every child who is born of a woman concerning whom a sin is committed by giving him a name which Allaah dislikes, or by initiating him into a religion other than that with which Allaah is pleased, or by committing adultery with his mother, or by killing him, or by burying him or her alive, or other actions which involve sin and disobedience towards Allaah, all come under the heading of the Shaytaan having a share in that with the one to whom the child is born, because in the aayah `share with them wealth and children' Allaah did not specify one meaning to the exclusion of any other. Every case where Allaah is disobeyed and the Shaytaan is obeyed is a form of his sharing in that.
What he said is sound. Each of the salaf pointed out some aspect in which the Shaytaan has a share. It was proven in Saheeh Muslim (2865) from `Iyaad ibn Himaar that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "Allaah said, `I created My slaves as pure monotheists (haneefs), then the shayaateen (devils) came to them and diverted them from their religion and forbade them that which I had permitted to them.'"
In al-Saheehayn (al-Bukhaari, 3271; Muslim, 1434) it is narrated that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "When any one of you want to have intercourse with his wife, let him say, `Bismillaah, jannibnaa al-shaytaan wa jannib al-Shaytaan ma razaqtana (In the name of Allaah. Keep the Shaytaan away from us and from what You bestow upon us).' Then if it is decreed that they should have a child, the Shaytaan will never be able to harm him."
(Tafseer Ibn Katheer, 3/50-51)
al-Tabari said:
The most correct view is that every child who is born of a woman concerning whom a sin is committed by giving him a name which Allaah dislikes, or by initiating him into a religion other than that with which Allaah is pleased, or by committing adultery with his mother, or by killing him, or by burying him or her alive, or other actions which involve sin and disobedience towards Allaah, all come under the heading of the Shaytaan having a share in that with the one to whom the child is born, because in the aayah `are with them wealth and children' Allaah did not specify one meaning to the exclusion of any other. Every case where Allaah is disobeyed and the Shaytaan is obeyed is a form of his sharing in that is giving Iblees a share in that
(Tafseer al-Tabari, 15/120, 121)
Shaykh `Abd al-Rahmaan al-Sa'di said:
"share with them wealth and children". This includes all kinds of sins that have to do with their wealth and children, such as withholding zakaah, failing to give kafaaraat (expiation) and to give people their dues, not disciplining and training children to do good and give up evil, taking wealth unlawfully or spending it unlawfully, or using earnings gained from haraam sources.
Indeed, many of the mufassireen said that also included in the Shaytaan's share of wealth and children is neglecting to say Bismillaah when eating, drinking or having intercourse; if one does not say Bismillaah when doing those things, the Shaytaan has a share in them, as was mentioned in the hadeeth.
Tayseer al-Kareem al-Rahmaan, p. 414
I say: with regard to the Shaytaan sharing in intercourse when a person fails to say Bismillaah, we have mentioned above the hadeeth narrated by Ibn Katheer (may Allaah have mercy on him) and the comment of Mujaahid (may Allaah have mercy on him).
Conclusion:
The correct view on the meaning of this aayah is that it should be interpreted in the ways mentioned above, for there is no contradiction between these meanings. Each of the salaf mentioned one aspect of its meanings, and there is no contradiction between them. The basic principle in such a case is that the aayah should be interpreted according to all its meanings.
Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah said:
The differences among the salaf concerning tafseer are very small. Their differences concerning rulings are greater than their differences concerning tafseer. Most of the differences narrated from them in saheeh reports have to do with variations, not contradictions. These are of two types:
The first is that each of them expresses the meaning that he has in mind using words that differ from the words used by others, each referring to a different aspect of the same thing… This is similar to the case where different words are used to refer to a sword: al-saarim (that which parts or cuts off) and al-muhannad (made from Indian iron). And it is like the names of Allaah, the names of His Messenger, and the names of the Qur'aan. All of the names of Allaah refer to One; calling upon Him by one of His Most Beautiful Names does not contradict calling upon Him by one of His other Names. Rather it is as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
"Say (O Muhammad): `Invoke Allaah or invoke the Most Gracious (Allaah), by whatever name you invoke Him (it is the same), for to Him belong the Best Names'"
[al-Israa' 17:110]
Each of His names refers to the same Essence and to the attribute referred to in that name. So al-`Aleem (the All-Knowing) refers to His Essence and His knowledge; al-Qadeer (the All-Powerful) refers to His Essence and His power; al-Raheem (the Most Merciful) refers to His Essence and His mercy…
The second kind is when each of them refers to a specific meaning by way of giving an example or drawing the attention of the listener to an example, not in a precise and exclusive sense. This is like when a non-Arab asks what the word khubz (bread) means, and someone shows him a loaf of bread. He is referring to a type, not this specific loaf.
Majmoo' al-Fataawa, 13/333-337
Is it true that if a person does not say "Bismillaah" before having intercourse, the Shaytaan shares with him in that?
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
With regard to the Shaytaan having a share when one does not say Bismillaah, Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
"share with them wealth and children (by tempting them to earn money by illegal ways usury, or by committing illegal sexual intercourse),"
[al-Israa' 17:64]
Al-Qurtubi said: i.e., give yourself a share in that…
"children": it was said that this means the children of zina (fornication, adultery). This was the view of Mujaahid, al-Dahhaak and `Abd-Allaah ibn `Abbaas. It was also narrated that he said, this refers to the children whom they killed and against whom they committed other crimes. It was also narrated that he said, this refers to when they call them by names such as `Abd al-Haarith, `Abd al-`Uzza, `Abd al-Laat, `Abd al-Shams [i.e., names meaning "slave of…" referring to their false gods]. And it was said that this refers to their initiating their children into kufr so that they make them into Jews or Christians, as the Christians do with their children when they baptize them with water. This was the view of Qutaadah.
The fifth view was narrated from Mujaahid who said: If a man has intercourse and does not mention the name of Allaah, the jinn wraps himself around his penis and has intercourse along with him. This is what is referred to in the aayah (interpretation of the meaning):
"with whom no man or jinni has had Tamth [sexual intercourse] before them"
[al-Rahmaan 55:56]
Tafseer al-Qurtubi, 10/289
Ibn Katheer said:
" `share with them wealth and children (by tempting them to earn money by illegal ways usury, or by committing illegal sexual intercourse)'
[al-Israa' 17:64 _ interpretation of the meaning]
`children': al-`Awfi said, narrating from Ibn `Abbaas, Mujaahid and al-Dahhaak: this means the children of zina. `Ali ibn Abi Talhah said, narrating from Ibn `Abbaas: this refers to their children whom they used to kill from folly, without knowledge. Qutaadah said, narrating from al-Hasan al-Basri: by Allaah, he had a share with them in their children by making them Magians, Jews and Christians, so that they followed a religion other than the religion of Allaah and gave a share of their wealth to the Shaytaan. This was also the view of Qutaadah. Abu Saalih said, narrating from Ibn `Abbaas: this refers to when they give their children names such as `Abd al-Haarith, `Abd al-Shams and so on.
Ibn Jareer said: The most correct view is that every child who is born of a woman concerning whom a sin is committed by giving him a name which Allaah dislikes, or by initiating him into a religion other than that with which Allaah is pleased, or by committing adultery with his mother, or by killing him, or by burying him or her alive, or other actions which involve sin and disobedience towards Allaah, all come under the heading of the Shaytaan having a share in that with the one to whom the child is born, because in the aayah `share with them wealth and children' Allaah did not specify one meaning to the exclusion of any other. Every case where Allaah is disobeyed and the Shaytaan is obeyed is a form of his sharing in that.
What he said is sound. Each of the salaf pointed out some aspect in which the Shaytaan has a share. It was proven in Saheeh Muslim (2865) from `Iyaad ibn Himaar that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "Allaah said, `I created My slaves as pure monotheists (haneefs), then the shayaateen (devils) came to them and diverted them from their religion and forbade them that which I had permitted to them.'"
In al-Saheehayn (al-Bukhaari, 3271; Muslim, 1434) it is narrated that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "When any one of you want to have intercourse with his wife, let him say, `Bismillaah, jannibnaa al-shaytaan wa jannib al-Shaytaan ma razaqtana (In the name of Allaah. Keep the Shaytaan away from us and from what You bestow upon us).' Then if it is decreed that they should have a child, the Shaytaan will never be able to harm him."
(Tafseer Ibn Katheer, 3/50-51)
al-Tabari said:
The most correct view is that every child who is born of a woman concerning whom a sin is committed by giving him a name which Allaah dislikes, or by initiating him into a religion other than that with which Allaah is pleased, or by committing adultery with his mother, or by killing him, or by burying him or her alive, or other actions which involve sin and disobedience towards Allaah, all come under the heading of the Shaytaan having a share in that with the one to whom the child is born, because in the aayah `are with them wealth and children' Allaah did not specify one meaning to the exclusion of any other. Every case where Allaah is disobeyed and the Shaytaan is obeyed is a form of his sharing in that is giving Iblees a share in that
(Tafseer al-Tabari, 15/120, 121)
Shaykh `Abd al-Rahmaan al-Sa'di said:
"share with them wealth and children". This includes all kinds of sins that have to do with their wealth and children, such as withholding zakaah, failing to give kafaaraat (expiation) and to give people their dues, not disciplining and training children to do good and give up evil, taking wealth unlawfully or spending it unlawfully, or using earnings gained from haraam sources.
Indeed, many of the mufassireen said that also included in the Shaytaan's share of wealth and children is neglecting to say Bismillaah when eating, drinking or having intercourse; if one does not say Bismillaah when doing those things, the Shaytaan has a share in them, as was mentioned in the hadeeth.
Tayseer al-Kareem al-Rahmaan, p. 414
I say: with regard to the Shaytaan sharing in intercourse when a person fails to say Bismillaah, we have mentioned above the hadeeth narrated by Ibn Katheer (may Allaah have mercy on him) and the comment of Mujaahid (may Allaah have mercy on him).
Conclusion:
The correct view on the meaning of this aayah is that it should be interpreted in the ways mentioned above, for there is no contradiction between these meanings. Each of the salaf mentioned one aspect of its meanings, and there is no contradiction between them. The basic principle in such a case is that the aayah should be interpreted according to all its meanings.
Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah said:
The differences among the salaf concerning tafseer are very small. Their differences concerning rulings are greater than their differences concerning tafseer. Most of the differences narrated from them in saheeh reports have to do with variations, not contradictions. These are of two types:
The first is that each of them expresses the meaning that he has in mind using words that differ from the words used by others, each referring to a different aspect of the same thing… This is similar to the case where different words are used to refer to a sword: al-saarim (that which parts or cuts off) and al-muhannad (made from Indian iron). And it is like the names of Allaah, the names of His Messenger, and the names of the Qur'aan. All of the names of Allaah refer to One; calling upon Him by one of His Most Beautiful Names does not contradict calling upon Him by one of His other Names. Rather it is as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
"Say (O Muhammad): `Invoke Allaah or invoke the Most Gracious (Allaah), by whatever name you invoke Him (it is the same), for to Him belong the Best Names'"
[al-Israa' 17:110]
Each of His names refers to the same Essence and to the attribute referred to in that name. So al-`Aleem (the All-Knowing) refers to His Essence and His knowledge; al-Qadeer (the All-Powerful) refers to His Essence and His power; al-Raheem (the Most Merciful) refers to His Essence and His mercy…
The second kind is when each of them refers to a specific meaning by way of giving an example or drawing the attention of the listener to an example, not in a precise and exclusive sense. This is like when a non-Arab asks what the word khubz (bread) means, and someone shows him a loaf of bread. He is referring to a type, not this specific loaf.
Majmoo' al-Fataawa, 13/333-337
What is the correct way to love and adore the Almighty?
The greatest way to attain the love of Allah has been suggested by the Qur'an itself in the following words:
Tell them [ O Prophet ]: 'If you do love Allah, follow me; God will love you and forgive your sins.' (3:31)
In other words, following the religion brought by the Prophet (saw - may the peace & blessings of Allah be upon him) is the greatest means to achieve the love of Allah. The stress in the verse indicated by the words 'follow me' is very, very meaningful. It implies that it is only the guidance brought down by the Prophet (saw) which must be followed by Muslims. All concepts and beliefs which are contrary to the Qur'an and Sunnah must be shunned by them.
Based, on the guidance brought by the Prophet (saw), the celebrated scholar Ibn Qayyim (rh - may Allah have mercy upon him) has presented a ten point program to attain the love of Allah in his famous book Madariju'l Salikin. Here is a summary of those points:
1. Study the Qur'an (preferably with a scholar) while deeply pondering over its verses to obtain guidance from it.
2. Besides offering the obligatory Rak'ats (unit of prayer) of prayer, offer additional ones (sunnah/nafl) to attain nearness of Allah.
3. Always remain busy with Allah's Dhikr (rememberance)through your tongue as well as your deeds.
4. When worldly desires overcome you, leave them and adopt ways to please Allah.
5. Acquaint yourself with Allah's Attributes and keep them in your remembrance.
6. Always keep your eyes on the favours and blessings of Allah.
7. Be humble right from your heart.
8. Pray and worship Allah especially during the time He descends on the heavens of this world.
Narrated by Abu Hurairah (ra - may Allah be pleased with him); Allah’s Apostle said, “Every night when it is the last third of the night, our Lord, the Superior, the Blessed, descends to the nearest heaven and says: Is there anyone to invoke Me that I may respond to his invocation? Is there anyone to ask Me so that I may grant him his request? Is there anyone asking My forgiveness so that I may forgive him?. ”
9. Spend time with pious and noble people.
10. Refrain from all those things which come between you and your Allah.
Tell them [ O Prophet ]: 'If you do love Allah, follow me; God will love you and forgive your sins.' (3:31)
In other words, following the religion brought by the Prophet (saw - may the peace & blessings of Allah be upon him) is the greatest means to achieve the love of Allah. The stress in the verse indicated by the words 'follow me' is very, very meaningful. It implies that it is only the guidance brought down by the Prophet (saw) which must be followed by Muslims. All concepts and beliefs which are contrary to the Qur'an and Sunnah must be shunned by them.
Based, on the guidance brought by the Prophet (saw), the celebrated scholar Ibn Qayyim (rh - may Allah have mercy upon him) has presented a ten point program to attain the love of Allah in his famous book Madariju'l Salikin. Here is a summary of those points:
1. Study the Qur'an (preferably with a scholar) while deeply pondering over its verses to obtain guidance from it.
2. Besides offering the obligatory Rak'ats (unit of prayer) of prayer, offer additional ones (sunnah/nafl) to attain nearness of Allah.
3. Always remain busy with Allah's Dhikr (rememberance)through your tongue as well as your deeds.
4. When worldly desires overcome you, leave them and adopt ways to please Allah.
5. Acquaint yourself with Allah's Attributes and keep them in your remembrance.
6. Always keep your eyes on the favours and blessings of Allah.
7. Be humble right from your heart.
8. Pray and worship Allah especially during the time He descends on the heavens of this world.
Narrated by Abu Hurairah (ra - may Allah be pleased with him); Allah’s Apostle said, “Every night when it is the last third of the night, our Lord, the Superior, the Blessed, descends to the nearest heaven and says: Is there anyone to invoke Me that I may respond to his invocation? Is there anyone to ask Me so that I may grant him his request? Is there anyone asking My forgiveness so that I may forgive him?. ”
9. Spend time with pious and noble people.
10. Refrain from all those things which come between you and your Allah.
Solomon & the languages of animals
In the Name of God, the Merciful, the Beneficent
He inspected the birds and said: “Why is it that I do not see the hoopoe? Is he among the absentees? I will certainly punish him severely, or I will kill him, unless He brings me a clear warrant” (for his absence). But the hoopoe did not take long in coming. He said: “I have just learned things that are unknown to you, and I come to you from Sheba with accurate information. I found there a woman ruling over them; and she has been given of all good things, and hers is a magnificent throne. I found her and her people prostrating themselves to the sun instead of God; and Satan has made their deeds seem goodly to them, thus turning them away from the path (of God), so that they cannot find the right way.” (The Ants; Al-Naml: 27: 20-24)
So far the surah has given details about the knowledge God had chosen to give to His prophet, Solomon (as - peace be upon him). It relates Solomon’s (as) own words as he expressed gratitude for the special privileges God granted him, such as understanding the speech of birds, and favors of all sorts. The surah (chapter) also mentions that Solomon (as) had armies from among the jinn and the birds, in addition to his human army. It tells us how he understood the language of ants when he heard one of them warning its community of ants to hide before they could be crushed by Solomon and his hosts.
All this was a prelude to Solomon’s (as) story with the Queen of Sheba in which the hoopoe plays an important role. The story is told in six scenes with certain gaps deliberately left out, but we can easily understand them. Indeed these gaps serve to enhance the artistic beauty of the story. We also have comments on some of the scenes to alert us to their spiritual significance and enhance the moral we gather from the story. The comments are in perfect harmony, artistically and religiously, with the scenes and the gaps left between them.
Since the reference to Solomon (as) started with mentioning the jinn, humans and birds, as well as highlighting the importance of knowledge, the story gives roles to all three and shows the value of knowledge. It is as if the opening verses were meant to point out the key actors in the story. This is one of the finer artistic features of story telling in the Qur’an.
As told in the surah, the story paints the personal and distinctive features of the main characters: Solomon (as), the queen, the hoopoe and the queen’s courtiers. It portrays different reactions of these characters in different situations.
The first scene begins in the military parade, after the procession has passed the valley of the ants: “He inspected the birds and said: Why is it that I do not see the hoopoe? Is he among the absentees? I will certainly punish him severely, or I will kill him, unless He brings me a clear warrant (for his absence).” (Verses 20-21)
We see Solomon (as), a prophet and a king, marshalling his troops, and inspecting the birds to discover the absence of the hoopoe. We understand that it is a special hoopoe, with a position assigned to it in the procession. It was not just one of thousands or millions of hoopoes on the face of the earth. We note that Solomon (as) was alert and firm to miss a mere soldier in the great multitude composed of jinn, men and birds. His inquiry is of the type that befits a commander: it is flexible, looking at different possibilities: “Why is it that I do not see the hoopoe? Is he among the absentees?” (Verse 20)
It soon becomes clear to all that he is absent without prior permission. Hence, the matter should be firmly dealt with in order to keep matters under control. With the king’s inquiry, the hoopoe’s absence is no longer a secret. Unless firmness applied, it could become a precedent leading to worse consequences. Hence, Solomon (as) threatens the absent hoopoe: “I will certainly punish him severely, or I will kill him.” (Verse 21) But Solomon (as) is not a tyrant; he is a prophet. He must not issue a final judgment on the hoopoe before listening to what it had to say in its own defense. Therefore, we immediately see him as a just ruler: “Unless He brings me a clear warrant,” to justify his absence.
The curtains are drawn here, or may be the scene continues as the hoopoe arrives. He carries a great piece of news that represents a great surprise for Solomon (as) and for us who are observing events as they unfold: “But the hoopoe did not take long in coming. He said: ‘I have just learned things that are unknown to you, and I come to you from Sheba with accurate information. I found there a woman ruling over them; and she has been given of all good things, and hers is a magnificent throne. I found her and her people prostrating themselves to the sun instead of God; and Satan has made their deeds seem goodly to them, thus turning them away from the path (of God), so that they cannot find the right way. That they should not prostrate themselves in worship of God who brings forth all that is hidden in the heavens and the earth, and knows what you conceal and what you reveal. God, other than whom there is no deity, the Lord of the (truly) magnificent Throne.” (Verses 22-26)
The hoopoe is fully aware of the king’s firmness and serious approach. Therefore, he begins his report with a surprise that overshadows the fault of his absence and ensures that the king will listen to him: “I have just learned things that are unknown to you.” What king would not listen when one of his subjects tells him that he has learned something unknown to him?
Commentary by Sheik Sayyid Qutb
He inspected the birds and said: “Why is it that I do not see the hoopoe? Is he among the absentees? I will certainly punish him severely, or I will kill him, unless He brings me a clear warrant” (for his absence). But the hoopoe did not take long in coming. He said: “I have just learned things that are unknown to you, and I come to you from Sheba with accurate information. I found there a woman ruling over them; and she has been given of all good things, and hers is a magnificent throne. I found her and her people prostrating themselves to the sun instead of God; and Satan has made their deeds seem goodly to them, thus turning them away from the path (of God), so that they cannot find the right way.” (The Ants; Al-Naml: 27: 20-24)
So far the surah has given details about the knowledge God had chosen to give to His prophet, Solomon (as - peace be upon him). It relates Solomon’s (as) own words as he expressed gratitude for the special privileges God granted him, such as understanding the speech of birds, and favors of all sorts. The surah (chapter) also mentions that Solomon (as) had armies from among the jinn and the birds, in addition to his human army. It tells us how he understood the language of ants when he heard one of them warning its community of ants to hide before they could be crushed by Solomon and his hosts.
All this was a prelude to Solomon’s (as) story with the Queen of Sheba in which the hoopoe plays an important role. The story is told in six scenes with certain gaps deliberately left out, but we can easily understand them. Indeed these gaps serve to enhance the artistic beauty of the story. We also have comments on some of the scenes to alert us to their spiritual significance and enhance the moral we gather from the story. The comments are in perfect harmony, artistically and religiously, with the scenes and the gaps left between them.
Since the reference to Solomon (as) started with mentioning the jinn, humans and birds, as well as highlighting the importance of knowledge, the story gives roles to all three and shows the value of knowledge. It is as if the opening verses were meant to point out the key actors in the story. This is one of the finer artistic features of story telling in the Qur’an.
As told in the surah, the story paints the personal and distinctive features of the main characters: Solomon (as), the queen, the hoopoe and the queen’s courtiers. It portrays different reactions of these characters in different situations.
The first scene begins in the military parade, after the procession has passed the valley of the ants: “He inspected the birds and said: Why is it that I do not see the hoopoe? Is he among the absentees? I will certainly punish him severely, or I will kill him, unless He brings me a clear warrant (for his absence).” (Verses 20-21)
We see Solomon (as), a prophet and a king, marshalling his troops, and inspecting the birds to discover the absence of the hoopoe. We understand that it is a special hoopoe, with a position assigned to it in the procession. It was not just one of thousands or millions of hoopoes on the face of the earth. We note that Solomon (as) was alert and firm to miss a mere soldier in the great multitude composed of jinn, men and birds. His inquiry is of the type that befits a commander: it is flexible, looking at different possibilities: “Why is it that I do not see the hoopoe? Is he among the absentees?” (Verse 20)
It soon becomes clear to all that he is absent without prior permission. Hence, the matter should be firmly dealt with in order to keep matters under control. With the king’s inquiry, the hoopoe’s absence is no longer a secret. Unless firmness applied, it could become a precedent leading to worse consequences. Hence, Solomon (as) threatens the absent hoopoe: “I will certainly punish him severely, or I will kill him.” (Verse 21) But Solomon (as) is not a tyrant; he is a prophet. He must not issue a final judgment on the hoopoe before listening to what it had to say in its own defense. Therefore, we immediately see him as a just ruler: “Unless He brings me a clear warrant,” to justify his absence.
The curtains are drawn here, or may be the scene continues as the hoopoe arrives. He carries a great piece of news that represents a great surprise for Solomon (as) and for us who are observing events as they unfold: “But the hoopoe did not take long in coming. He said: ‘I have just learned things that are unknown to you, and I come to you from Sheba with accurate information. I found there a woman ruling over them; and she has been given of all good things, and hers is a magnificent throne. I found her and her people prostrating themselves to the sun instead of God; and Satan has made their deeds seem goodly to them, thus turning them away from the path (of God), so that they cannot find the right way. That they should not prostrate themselves in worship of God who brings forth all that is hidden in the heavens and the earth, and knows what you conceal and what you reveal. God, other than whom there is no deity, the Lord of the (truly) magnificent Throne.” (Verses 22-26)
The hoopoe is fully aware of the king’s firmness and serious approach. Therefore, he begins his report with a surprise that overshadows the fault of his absence and ensures that the king will listen to him: “I have just learned things that are unknown to you.” What king would not listen when one of his subjects tells him that he has learned something unknown to him?
Commentary by Sheik Sayyid Qutb
The Secret of How Spiders Walk on Ceilings
A team led by biomechanics expert Andrew Martin from the Institute for Technical Zoology and Bionics in Bremen, Germany, examined the feet of a small jumping spider (Evarcha arcuata) under an electron microscope. The images they obtained revealed sequences of long hairs (setae) under its feet, as in other spiders. The underside of each of these hairs was covered by even finer hairs (setules) with triangular tips.
In order to determine what kind of adhesion forces were involved, the scientists measured the adhesive force between the spider's foot and a small probe, using a method more frequently employed in materials science. The researchers' calculations showed that a spider hanging from the ceiling by contact through approximately 600,000 setules sets up an adhesive force capable of supporting 173 times its own body weight.
Interpreting these results, Martin concluded that the spider adhered to surfaces through van der Waals forces (the electrostatic attraction that emerges between molecules 1/1,000,000 of a millimeter apart). Van der Waals forces are concerned solely with the distance between two bodies and are unaffected by environmental factors. Therefore, the method by which the spider adheres to the wall can be replicated in the production of materials such as paper notes that can stick when wet and spacesuits that can adhere to surfaces in space. (These hairs are not only found on spiders. It emerged from one study performed in 2002 that geckoes also adhere to surfaces using van der Waals forces.)
For a spider to walk on the ceiling is as much a great ability as it is astonishing. Even more surprising is the way this ability depends on 600,000 fine hairs. There are an average of 100,000 hairs on the human head, yet there are six times this number on the sole of the spider's foot, so many times smaller than the human head. The fact that so many minute hairs have been located in such a small area reveals the existence of a marvel of micro-design. It is also striking the way that these hairs are not just anywhere on the spider's body, but on the soles of its feet. The genetic information for the structure of these hairs is in the spider's DNA and the cells in the sole produce the hairs in accordance with this design plan.
It is of course impossible for a spider to have come up with this design itself. No spider can think of applying the van der Waals forces by performing electrostatic measurements in order to walk on ceilings. Neither can it produce hairs on its feet itself. It is clear that all this has been specially designed in the light of a specific purpose. Indeed, the name of the journal in which the study in question was published is an excellent indication of this: Smart Materials and Structures, 19 April, 2004.
The concept of "smart materials" is one by which scientists aiming to resolve difficulties encountered in the industrial arena under inspiration from the design in nature describe the materials they use in the search to develop products with as few problems as possible.[*] The way that scientists setting out with that intent analyze and make use of the spider foot in their research is a clear sign that it contains an intelligent design. Therefore, the spider's ability to walk on ceilings also emerges as the product of a special creation. There is no doubt that it is God, the Lord of the worlds, Who created the spider and bestowed the ability to walk on ceilings on it. God reveals in one verse from the Qur'an:
Allâh has created every moving (living) creature from water. Of them there are some that creep on their bellies, some that walk on two legs, and some that walk on four. Allâh creates what He wills. Verily! Allâh is Able to do all things. (Qur'an, 24:45)
In order to determine what kind of adhesion forces were involved, the scientists measured the adhesive force between the spider's foot and a small probe, using a method more frequently employed in materials science. The researchers' calculations showed that a spider hanging from the ceiling by contact through approximately 600,000 setules sets up an adhesive force capable of supporting 173 times its own body weight.
Interpreting these results, Martin concluded that the spider adhered to surfaces through van der Waals forces (the electrostatic attraction that emerges between molecules 1/1,000,000 of a millimeter apart). Van der Waals forces are concerned solely with the distance between two bodies and are unaffected by environmental factors. Therefore, the method by which the spider adheres to the wall can be replicated in the production of materials such as paper notes that can stick when wet and spacesuits that can adhere to surfaces in space. (These hairs are not only found on spiders. It emerged from one study performed in 2002 that geckoes also adhere to surfaces using van der Waals forces.)
For a spider to walk on the ceiling is as much a great ability as it is astonishing. Even more surprising is the way this ability depends on 600,000 fine hairs. There are an average of 100,000 hairs on the human head, yet there are six times this number on the sole of the spider's foot, so many times smaller than the human head. The fact that so many minute hairs have been located in such a small area reveals the existence of a marvel of micro-design. It is also striking the way that these hairs are not just anywhere on the spider's body, but on the soles of its feet. The genetic information for the structure of these hairs is in the spider's DNA and the cells in the sole produce the hairs in accordance with this design plan.
It is of course impossible for a spider to have come up with this design itself. No spider can think of applying the van der Waals forces by performing electrostatic measurements in order to walk on ceilings. Neither can it produce hairs on its feet itself. It is clear that all this has been specially designed in the light of a specific purpose. Indeed, the name of the journal in which the study in question was published is an excellent indication of this: Smart Materials and Structures, 19 April, 2004.
The concept of "smart materials" is one by which scientists aiming to resolve difficulties encountered in the industrial arena under inspiration from the design in nature describe the materials they use in the search to develop products with as few problems as possible.[*] The way that scientists setting out with that intent analyze and make use of the spider foot in their research is a clear sign that it contains an intelligent design. Therefore, the spider's ability to walk on ceilings also emerges as the product of a special creation. There is no doubt that it is God, the Lord of the worlds, Who created the spider and bestowed the ability to walk on ceilings on it. God reveals in one verse from the Qur'an:
Allâh has created every moving (living) creature from water. Of them there are some that creep on their bellies, some that walk on two legs, and some that walk on four. Allâh creates what He wills. Verily! Allâh is Able to do all things. (Qur'an, 24:45)
The Prophet's Medicine - Vinegar
Vinegar
Prophet Muhammad (saw - may the peace & blessings of Allah be upon him) liked vinegar. Modern medicine also acknowledge its anti-cough, anti-inflammation and digestive properties
Jabir (ra - may Allah be pleased with him) narrated, “The Messenger of Allah (saw), peace be upon him, took me one day with him to his house. He was served some bread. He asked: `Is there any dip?’ They replied ‘No, only some vinegar.’ He said, ‘Vinegar is a good dip.'
Jabir (ra) used to say, “I have loved vinegar since I heard it from Allah’s Prophet (saw)”. And Talhah ibn Naf’a (ra) said, “I have loved vinegar since I heard it from Jabir.” (Muslim, Abu Dawud, Nasaa’i)
What is Vinegar and Why is it a Good Dip?
Vinegar is made by fermenting the juice of sweet fruits and grains such as barley, apple and grape. The process of creating vinegar entails fermenting in an aerobic environment (in the presence of oxygen) as opposed to alcoholic fermentation, which is done in an anaerobic environment (in the absence of oxygen). The alcohol in these liquids is oxidized to acetic acid. Vinegar contains 4 per cent or more acetic acid. Its colour and tastes differ depending on its base.
Vinegar contains small amounts of protein and starch. 100g of vinegar has only 16 calories. It also contains sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, iron, zinc and chlorine but it has no vitamins.
Ibn Seena (died 1037 CE) wrote in his famous book Al-Qanoon fit Tibb (the Law of Medicine), that vinegar is a powerful clotting agent. If poured on an external wound, it will stop the bleeding and prevent swelling. It aids digestion and is an expectorant. It helps with felons (inflammation of the tissues of a finger or toe) and carbuncles (a kind of skin inflammation). It acts quickly on burns. When mixed with old and applied to the head, it helps with headaches caused by heat. It strengthens gums. It is an appetizer and aids digestion.
Vinegar is treating External Injuries
The Martin-Dale Encyclopaedia of Pharmaceuticals 1989 indicated that vinegar has many beneficial uses. Some are :
To treat poisoning by alkaline (non-acidic) substances.
To help reduce fevers by applying a cold pad to the forehead which is soaked with vinegar and water.
To cure ‘black hairy tongue.’ a disease caused due to intake of antibiotics like penicillin, tetracycline by using vinegar once or twice daily for a week.
To soothe pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis by applying a pad soaked with vinegar and water to painful joints.
To treat bee and jellyfish stings by applying a mixture of equal amounts of salt and vinegar to the sting, relieving the pain and preventing inflammation.
Cider Vinegar
Professor John B.Yudkin wrote in the 1986 edition of the Penguin Encyclopaedia of Nutrition that Cider vinegar is known for its ability to cure several diseases. It helps in treating joint pain, rhinitis (inflammation of the nose), asthma and gastric disorders and is helps in losing weight.”
Slight cases of diarrhoea are a way by which the body gets rid of harmful substances that enter the digestive system. The 1989 edition of Dr. Micheal Sharon’s book, Complete Nutrition, stated that vinegar aids in treating diarrhoea. It should be taken as one to two tea spoons of vinegar in a glass of boiled or mineral water several times a day.
Anti-Microbial
Complete Nutrition also states. “Vinegar performs the role of disinfectant for the intestines. Some people advise it to be used for gargle for the mouth and throat. It disinfects the inside of the mouth from germs. The usual dosage for gargle is to mix one to three tea spoons of cider vinegar in a glass of water, in morning and at night.”
Dr. Sharon ends his argument about cider vinegar by saying: “We always have to remember that cider vinegar will not have the same effect on everyone. Some may benefit from it and some may not. Very few people may be allergic to vinegar. Nevertheless vinegar is beneficial for the majority of people.
Didn't the Prophet (saws) say, “Vinegar is a good dip".
By Dr. Hassan Shamsi Basha
Prophet Muhammad (saw - may the peace & blessings of Allah be upon him) liked vinegar. Modern medicine also acknowledge its anti-cough, anti-inflammation and digestive properties
Jabir (ra - may Allah be pleased with him) narrated, “The Messenger of Allah (saw), peace be upon him, took me one day with him to his house. He was served some bread. He asked: `Is there any dip?’ They replied ‘No, only some vinegar.’ He said, ‘Vinegar is a good dip.'
Jabir (ra) used to say, “I have loved vinegar since I heard it from Allah’s Prophet (saw)”. And Talhah ibn Naf’a (ra) said, “I have loved vinegar since I heard it from Jabir.” (Muslim, Abu Dawud, Nasaa’i)
What is Vinegar and Why is it a Good Dip?
Vinegar is made by fermenting the juice of sweet fruits and grains such as barley, apple and grape. The process of creating vinegar entails fermenting in an aerobic environment (in the presence of oxygen) as opposed to alcoholic fermentation, which is done in an anaerobic environment (in the absence of oxygen). The alcohol in these liquids is oxidized to acetic acid. Vinegar contains 4 per cent or more acetic acid. Its colour and tastes differ depending on its base.
Vinegar contains small amounts of protein and starch. 100g of vinegar has only 16 calories. It also contains sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, iron, zinc and chlorine but it has no vitamins.
Ibn Seena (died 1037 CE) wrote in his famous book Al-Qanoon fit Tibb (the Law of Medicine), that vinegar is a powerful clotting agent. If poured on an external wound, it will stop the bleeding and prevent swelling. It aids digestion and is an expectorant. It helps with felons (inflammation of the tissues of a finger or toe) and carbuncles (a kind of skin inflammation). It acts quickly on burns. When mixed with old and applied to the head, it helps with headaches caused by heat. It strengthens gums. It is an appetizer and aids digestion.
Vinegar is treating External Injuries
The Martin-Dale Encyclopaedia of Pharmaceuticals 1989 indicated that vinegar has many beneficial uses. Some are :
To treat poisoning by alkaline (non-acidic) substances.
To help reduce fevers by applying a cold pad to the forehead which is soaked with vinegar and water.
To cure ‘black hairy tongue.’ a disease caused due to intake of antibiotics like penicillin, tetracycline by using vinegar once or twice daily for a week.
To soothe pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis by applying a pad soaked with vinegar and water to painful joints.
To treat bee and jellyfish stings by applying a mixture of equal amounts of salt and vinegar to the sting, relieving the pain and preventing inflammation.
Cider Vinegar
Professor John B.Yudkin wrote in the 1986 edition of the Penguin Encyclopaedia of Nutrition that Cider vinegar is known for its ability to cure several diseases. It helps in treating joint pain, rhinitis (inflammation of the nose), asthma and gastric disorders and is helps in losing weight.”
Slight cases of diarrhoea are a way by which the body gets rid of harmful substances that enter the digestive system. The 1989 edition of Dr. Micheal Sharon’s book, Complete Nutrition, stated that vinegar aids in treating diarrhoea. It should be taken as one to two tea spoons of vinegar in a glass of boiled or mineral water several times a day.
Anti-Microbial
Complete Nutrition also states. “Vinegar performs the role of disinfectant for the intestines. Some people advise it to be used for gargle for the mouth and throat. It disinfects the inside of the mouth from germs. The usual dosage for gargle is to mix one to three tea spoons of cider vinegar in a glass of water, in morning and at night.”
Dr. Sharon ends his argument about cider vinegar by saying: “We always have to remember that cider vinegar will not have the same effect on everyone. Some may benefit from it and some may not. Very few people may be allergic to vinegar. Nevertheless vinegar is beneficial for the majority of people.
Didn't the Prophet (saws) say, “Vinegar is a good dip".
By Dr. Hassan Shamsi Basha
CASTE SYSTEM IN ISLAM / Holy Quran - Sunnah - Seerah Confirm Equality
Excerpts:
“You are empty (i.e. you have no moral leg tostand on.) ...Bilal.... on the other hand, ....is better and more honourable than any of you.”
“O mankind, We have created you from a male and afemale and made you into races and tribes, so that you
may identify each other. Surely the noblest of you,in Allah’s sight, is the one who is most pious of you.
Surely Allah is All-Knowing, all-Aware.”
"The underlying Divine wisdom in such a division is mutual identification."
" The current verse of Surah Hujurat proceeds to set down the basis of an all-comprehensive and all-pervading principle of human equality. It has firmly laid the axe at the false and foolish notions of superiority...,"
".. all people are the descendants of Adam and Hawwa Alayhis salaam and have been declared equal in the sight of Allah."
" The entire human race is but one family. "
"This verse was revealed on the occasion of the conquest of Makkah. When it was time for prayer, the
Holy Prophet..Bilal ... call the adhan."
“You are empty (i.e. you have no moral leg to stand on.) ... Bilal .. on the other hand, ...is better and more honourable than any of you.”
"Taqwa of Allah is the basis of Honour"
" This verse made it plain that human beings can earn honour on account of their faith and righteousness."
" “O people! Allah has removed from you the pride of Jahiliyyah and its arrogance."
"Therefore, no one should be given preference just because of sub caste. Respect should be given because
of ilm and taqwa."
CASTE SYSTEM IN ISLAM
Posted by: "Saba Khan" kuchkhawaab@yahoo.com kuchkhawaab
Tue Apr 17, 2007 7:34 am (PST)
QUESTION
1)There are different subcastes in islam like
KHAN,PATHAN, SHAIK etc.so now what i want to know is
who made these castes or who divided the people in
these castes.since people says with proud that they
belong to highest subcastes?
2)our prophet muhammad(saw) belongs to which
subcastes?
Allah Hafiz
Answer
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful
Assalaamu `alaykum waRahmatullahi Wabarakatoh
1) Allah states in the Holy Quran:
“O mankind, We have created you from a male and a
female and made you into races and tribes, so that you
may identify each other. Surely the noblest of you,
in Allah’s sight, is the one who is most pious of you.
Surely Allah is All-Knowing, all-Aware.”
[Surahtul Hujurat ]
The Quran in this verse has made it clear that Allah
has created all mankind from a single mother and a
single father, and made them into a single
brotherhood. But He has divided them into different
tribes, nations, races, lineage and
language-speakers/ linguistic groups. The underlying
Divine wisdom in such a division is mutual
identification.
For example:
If there are two people bearing the same name, they
could be differentiated by family name.
It can also show the near and remote relations. Their
Shar’i rights can be fulfilled on the basis of near
and distant lineage. It is incumbent to determine the
near and remote agnate heirs when applying the law of
succession or dividing the estate of a deceased.
In short, reference to one’s lineage for the purpose
of identification is not deemed to be pride and
conceit.
The current verse of Surah Hujurat proceeds to set
down the basis of an all-comprehensive and
all-pervading principle of human equality. It has
firmly laid the axe at the false and foolish notions
of superiority, born of racial arrogance or national
conceit. All men have been created from a single male
Adam Alayhis salaam and a single female Hawwa Alayhis
salaam as human beings. Therefore all people are the
descendants of Adam and Hawwa Alayhis salaam and have
been declared equal in the sight of Allah.
No one is allowed to take pride or degrade others on
the basis of his skin, wealth, rank, social status,
descent or pedigree, but by his moral uprightness and
the way he discharges his obligations to Allah and
man. The entire human race is but one family.
Division into nations, tribes and sub-tribes of all
sizes, and races is meant only to give a better
identification of one another.
Cause of Revelation (Shaani Nuzul)
This verse was revealed on the occasion of the
conquest of Makkah. When it was time for prayer, the
Holy Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wasallam asked Sayyidna
Bilal Radiyallhu anhu to call the adhan. One of the
pagan Quraish cynically remarked: Thank God my father
died before this happened, and he did not have to see
this bad day. Harith Ibn Hisham remarked: could
Muhammad not find anyone better than this black crow
to sound the adhan in the Sacred Masjid! Abu Sufyan
said: I do not wish to utter anything for fear that
the master of the heavens will inform him. Thus
Jibrail Alayhis salaam came down and informed the Holy
Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wasallam about this
conversation. The Holy Prophet Sallallahu alayhi
wasallam called them and asked them about it. They
admitted. At this, the current verse was revealed.
Taqwa of Allah is the basis of Honour
This verse made it plain that human beings can earn
honour on account of their faith and righteousness.
The immediate application of the verse was to
Sayyidina Bilal Radiyallahu anhu, and therefore the
Holy Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wasallam said to those
people: “You are empty (i.e. you have no moral leg to
stand on.) Sayyidina Bilal Radiyallahu anhu, on the
other hand, is equipped (with high moral qualities);
and he is better and more honourable than any of you.”
Sayyidna Abudullah Ibn Umar Radiyallahu anhu reports
that on the day when Makkah was conquered, the Holy
Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wasallam performed tawaf
(circumambulation of Ka’bah) in the state of riding on
his she-camel, [so that all the people could see him].
Then having completed his tawaf, he delivered a
sermon in which he said:
“O people! Allah has removed from you the pride of
Jahiliyyah and its arrogance. People are of two
types: a man who is righteous, fearful of Allah and he
is honourable to Allah; or a man who is sinful,
wretched, and he is disgraced and little to Allah.”
[Tirmidhi and Baghawi]
Then he recited the current verse.
Sayyidina Ibn Abbas Radiyallahu anhu says: For people
“honour” lies in wealth, whilst in the sight of Allah
it lies in righteousness.
Overall, people needed a way to introduce and
recognize each other all along in the history of
mankind.
Looking back in history, we can see how mankind
divided into subcastes:
Nuh Alayhis Salaam had three sons- Sam, Ham, and
Yafith. The children of Ham are ‘Haamiyun Nasl’- e.g. mostly
the Middle Eastern tribes. The children of Sam are ‘Saamiyun Nasl’- e.g. the
tribes of ‘aad and thamud, etc. The children of Yafith are the ya’jooj ma’jooj (Gog
Magog).
We can also see how certain tribes are popular with
certain qualities.
For example:
A tribe that consists of pious people who practice
good akhlaaq and deeds will become known as “a good
tribe.”
Moreover, knowing reference to a tribe can help us
draw some conclusions.
For example:
A family may be known for good hospitality and one can
expect it from them. Another family may be known for
bravery, and so on.
I.e. Knowing the tribe can help us get a clue about
what a person may be like.
However, it is clear from the Quran that the
underlying Divine Wisdom of the lineal, national and
linguistic division of mankind is identification.
Therefore, no one should be given preference just
because of sub caste. Respect should be given because
of ilm and taqwa.
2) Our Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wasallam was from the
respected tribe of Quraysh, and from the most honoured
family of Banu Hashim.
And Allah knows best
Wassalam
A Female Alima from US
Student Darul Iftaa
Checked and Approved by:
Mufti Ebrahim Desai
Darul Iftaa, Madrassah In'aamiyyah
Bismillah, FYI
Peace,Curtis Sharif
Houston, Texas
“You are empty (i.e. you have no moral leg tostand on.) ...Bilal.... on the other hand, ....is better and more honourable than any of you.”
“O mankind, We have created you from a male and afemale and made you into races and tribes, so that you
may identify each other. Surely the noblest of you,in Allah’s sight, is the one who is most pious of you.
Surely Allah is All-Knowing, all-Aware.”
"The underlying Divine wisdom in such a division is mutual identification."
" The current verse of Surah Hujurat proceeds to set down the basis of an all-comprehensive and all-pervading principle of human equality. It has firmly laid the axe at the false and foolish notions of superiority...,"
".. all people are the descendants of Adam and Hawwa Alayhis salaam and have been declared equal in the sight of Allah."
" The entire human race is but one family. "
"This verse was revealed on the occasion of the conquest of Makkah. When it was time for prayer, the
Holy Prophet..Bilal ... call the adhan."
“You are empty (i.e. you have no moral leg to stand on.) ... Bilal .. on the other hand, ...is better and more honourable than any of you.”
"Taqwa of Allah is the basis of Honour"
" This verse made it plain that human beings can earn honour on account of their faith and righteousness."
" “O people! Allah has removed from you the pride of Jahiliyyah and its arrogance."
"Therefore, no one should be given preference just because of sub caste. Respect should be given because
of ilm and taqwa."
CASTE SYSTEM IN ISLAM
Posted by: "Saba Khan" kuchkhawaab@yahoo.com kuchkhawaab
Tue Apr 17, 2007 7:34 am (PST)
QUESTION
1)There are different subcastes in islam like
KHAN,PATHAN, SHAIK etc.so now what i want to know is
who made these castes or who divided the people in
these castes.since people says with proud that they
belong to highest subcastes?
2)our prophet muhammad(saw) belongs to which
subcastes?
Allah Hafiz
Answer
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful
Assalaamu `alaykum waRahmatullahi Wabarakatoh
1) Allah states in the Holy Quran:
“O mankind, We have created you from a male and a
female and made you into races and tribes, so that you
may identify each other. Surely the noblest of you,
in Allah’s sight, is the one who is most pious of you.
Surely Allah is All-Knowing, all-Aware.”
[Surahtul Hujurat ]
The Quran in this verse has made it clear that Allah
has created all mankind from a single mother and a
single father, and made them into a single
brotherhood. But He has divided them into different
tribes, nations, races, lineage and
language-speakers/ linguistic groups. The underlying
Divine wisdom in such a division is mutual
identification.
For example:
If there are two people bearing the same name, they
could be differentiated by family name.
It can also show the near and remote relations. Their
Shar’i rights can be fulfilled on the basis of near
and distant lineage. It is incumbent to determine the
near and remote agnate heirs when applying the law of
succession or dividing the estate of a deceased.
In short, reference to one’s lineage for the purpose
of identification is not deemed to be pride and
conceit.
The current verse of Surah Hujurat proceeds to set
down the basis of an all-comprehensive and
all-pervading principle of human equality. It has
firmly laid the axe at the false and foolish notions
of superiority, born of racial arrogance or national
conceit. All men have been created from a single male
Adam Alayhis salaam and a single female Hawwa Alayhis
salaam as human beings. Therefore all people are the
descendants of Adam and Hawwa Alayhis salaam and have
been declared equal in the sight of Allah.
No one is allowed to take pride or degrade others on
the basis of his skin, wealth, rank, social status,
descent or pedigree, but by his moral uprightness and
the way he discharges his obligations to Allah and
man. The entire human race is but one family.
Division into nations, tribes and sub-tribes of all
sizes, and races is meant only to give a better
identification of one another.
Cause of Revelation (Shaani Nuzul)
This verse was revealed on the occasion of the
conquest of Makkah. When it was time for prayer, the
Holy Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wasallam asked Sayyidna
Bilal Radiyallhu anhu to call the adhan. One of the
pagan Quraish cynically remarked: Thank God my father
died before this happened, and he did not have to see
this bad day. Harith Ibn Hisham remarked: could
Muhammad not find anyone better than this black crow
to sound the adhan in the Sacred Masjid! Abu Sufyan
said: I do not wish to utter anything for fear that
the master of the heavens will inform him. Thus
Jibrail Alayhis salaam came down and informed the Holy
Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wasallam about this
conversation. The Holy Prophet Sallallahu alayhi
wasallam called them and asked them about it. They
admitted. At this, the current verse was revealed.
Taqwa of Allah is the basis of Honour
This verse made it plain that human beings can earn
honour on account of their faith and righteousness.
The immediate application of the verse was to
Sayyidina Bilal Radiyallahu anhu, and therefore the
Holy Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wasallam said to those
people: “You are empty (i.e. you have no moral leg to
stand on.) Sayyidina Bilal Radiyallahu anhu, on the
other hand, is equipped (with high moral qualities);
and he is better and more honourable than any of you.”
Sayyidna Abudullah Ibn Umar Radiyallahu anhu reports
that on the day when Makkah was conquered, the Holy
Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wasallam performed tawaf
(circumambulation of Ka’bah) in the state of riding on
his she-camel, [so that all the people could see him].
Then having completed his tawaf, he delivered a
sermon in which he said:
“O people! Allah has removed from you the pride of
Jahiliyyah and its arrogance. People are of two
types: a man who is righteous, fearful of Allah and he
is honourable to Allah; or a man who is sinful,
wretched, and he is disgraced and little to Allah.”
[Tirmidhi and Baghawi]
Then he recited the current verse.
Sayyidina Ibn Abbas Radiyallahu anhu says: For people
“honour” lies in wealth, whilst in the sight of Allah
it lies in righteousness.
Overall, people needed a way to introduce and
recognize each other all along in the history of
mankind.
Looking back in history, we can see how mankind
divided into subcastes:
Nuh Alayhis Salaam had three sons- Sam, Ham, and
Yafith. The children of Ham are ‘Haamiyun Nasl’- e.g. mostly
the Middle Eastern tribes. The children of Sam are ‘Saamiyun Nasl’- e.g. the
tribes of ‘aad and thamud, etc. The children of Yafith are the ya’jooj ma’jooj (Gog
Magog).
We can also see how certain tribes are popular with
certain qualities.
For example:
A tribe that consists of pious people who practice
good akhlaaq and deeds will become known as “a good
tribe.”
Moreover, knowing reference to a tribe can help us
draw some conclusions.
For example:
A family may be known for good hospitality and one can
expect it from them. Another family may be known for
bravery, and so on.
I.e. Knowing the tribe can help us get a clue about
what a person may be like.
However, it is clear from the Quran that the
underlying Divine Wisdom of the lineal, national and
linguistic division of mankind is identification.
Therefore, no one should be given preference just
because of sub caste. Respect should be given because
of ilm and taqwa.
2) Our Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wasallam was from the
respected tribe of Quraysh, and from the most honoured
family of Banu Hashim.
And Allah knows best
Wassalam
A Female Alima from US
Student Darul Iftaa
Checked and Approved by:
Mufti Ebrahim Desai
Darul Iftaa, Madrassah In'aamiyyah
Bismillah, FYI
Peace,Curtis Sharif
Houston, Texas
Friday, April 27, 2007
MCB SUPPORTS CALL FOR INQUIRY INTO LEAKS AND RELATED MATTERS
T H E M U S L I M C O U N C I L O F B R I T A I N
27 April 2007
Press Release
MCB SUPPORTS CALL FOR INQUIRY INTO LEAKS AND RELATED MATTERS
The Muslim Council of Britain welcomes and fully supports the calls by senior politicians across the political divide for an inquiry into the alleged leaks of information to the media prior to the arrests of Muslim suspects.
MCB Secretary-General Dr Muhammad Abdul Bari said, “We have always maintained that no-one regardless of their faith or crime should be tried by the media. We have a distinguished legal tradition whose integrity should not be sacrificed for cheap political gains.”
“This latest episode concerning Muslim suspects in Birmingham raises the unpleasant and disturbing spectre of the impartiality and independence of the law enforcement agencies. If law enforcement policies are developed and enforced in concert with sections of the media, it is inevitable that many in the community would seriously question the motivation of such policies,” added Dr Abdul Bari.
Following the arrest of nine Muslims in Birmingham in February 2007 the MCB wrote to the Attorney General urging him to consider the publication of a protocol reminding all concerned of their duty not to undermine, prejudice or compromise the right of the accused to a fair trial.
The MCB reiterates its call for a comprehensive inquiry into the alleged leaks and all other related matters to the policing of the Muslim community. Such an inquiry would help immeasurably to restore public confidence in the integrity of our law enforcement agencies, a factor which is indispensable to their success.
[ENDS]
Notes to Editors:
The Muslim Council of Britain is the UK's largest Muslim umbrella body with around 500 affiliated national, regional and local organisations, mosques, charities and schools.
Media enquiries should be addressed to the MCB Media Office on 0845 26 26 786 or 07956 353 738. Email: media@mcb.org.uk.
Non-media enquiries should be addressed to the MCB Office at The Muslim Council of Britain, PO Box 57330, London E1 2WJ. Tel: 0845 26 26 786 Fax: 0207 247 7079
This press release and other MCB publications and information are available on the MCB website at www.mcb.org.uk.
27 April 2007
Press Release
MCB SUPPORTS CALL FOR INQUIRY INTO LEAKS AND RELATED MATTERS
The Muslim Council of Britain welcomes and fully supports the calls by senior politicians across the political divide for an inquiry into the alleged leaks of information to the media prior to the arrests of Muslim suspects.
MCB Secretary-General Dr Muhammad Abdul Bari said, “We have always maintained that no-one regardless of their faith or crime should be tried by the media. We have a distinguished legal tradition whose integrity should not be sacrificed for cheap political gains.”
“This latest episode concerning Muslim suspects in Birmingham raises the unpleasant and disturbing spectre of the impartiality and independence of the law enforcement agencies. If law enforcement policies are developed and enforced in concert with sections of the media, it is inevitable that many in the community would seriously question the motivation of such policies,” added Dr Abdul Bari.
Following the arrest of nine Muslims in Birmingham in February 2007 the MCB wrote to the Attorney General urging him to consider the publication of a protocol reminding all concerned of their duty not to undermine, prejudice or compromise the right of the accused to a fair trial.
The MCB reiterates its call for a comprehensive inquiry into the alleged leaks and all other related matters to the policing of the Muslim community. Such an inquiry would help immeasurably to restore public confidence in the integrity of our law enforcement agencies, a factor which is indispensable to their success.
[ENDS]
Notes to Editors:
The Muslim Council of Britain is the UK's largest Muslim umbrella body with around 500 affiliated national, regional and local organisations, mosques, charities and schools.
Media enquiries should be addressed to the MCB Media Office on 0845 26 26 786 or 07956 353 738. Email: media@mcb.org.uk.
Non-media enquiries should be addressed to the MCB Office at The Muslim Council of Britain, PO Box 57330, London E1 2WJ. Tel: 0845 26 26 786 Fax: 0207 247 7079
This press release and other MCB publications and information are available on the MCB website at www.mcb.org.uk.
Food as "Medicine"
HEADACHE? EAT FISH!
Eat plenty of fish -- fish oil helps prevent headaches.
So does ginger, which reduces inflammation and pain.
HAVE FEVER? EAT YOGURT!
Eat lots of yogurt before pollen season.
Also-eat honey from your area (local region) daily.
TO PREVENT STROKE DRINK TEA!
Prevent buildup of fatty deposits on artery walls with regular doses of tea. (actually, tea suppresses my appetite and keeps the pounds from invading....Green tea is great for our immune system)!
INSOMNIA (CAN'T SLEEP?) HONEY!
Use honey as a tranquilizer and sedative.
ASTHMA? EAT ONIONS!!!!
Eating onions helps ease constriction of bronchial tubes. (when I was young, my mother would make onion packs to place on our chest, helped the respiratory ailments and actually made us breathe better).
ARTHRITIS? EAT FISH, TOO!!
Salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines actually prevent arthritis. (fish has omega oils, good for our immune system)
UPSET STOMACH? BANANAS - GINGER!!!!!
Bananas will settle an upset stomach.
Ginger will cure morning sickness and nausea.
BLADDER INFECTION? DRINK CRANBERRY JUICE!!!!
High-acid cranberry juice controls harmful bacteria.
BONE PROBLEMS? EAT PINEAPPLE!!!
Bone fractures and osteoporosis can be prevented by the manganese in pineapple.
PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME? EAT CORNFLAKES!!!!
Women can ward off the effects of PMS with cornflakes, which help reduce depression, anxiety and fatigue.
MEMORY PROBLEMS? EAT OYSTERS!
Oysters help improve your mental functioning by supplying much-needed zinc.
COLDS? EAT GARLIC!
Clear up that stuffy head with garlic. (remember, garlic lowers cholesterol, too.)
COUGHING? USE RED PEPPERS!!
A substance similar to that found in the cough syrups is found in hot red pepper. Use red (cayenne) pepper with caution-it can irritate your tummy.
BREAST CANCER? EAT Wheat, bran and cabbage
Helps to maintain estrogen at healthy levels.
LUNG CANCER? EAT DARK GREEN ANDORANGE
A good antidote is beta carotene, a form of Vitamin A found in dark green and orange vegetables.
ULCERS? EAT CABBAGE ALSO!!!
Cabbage contains chemicals that help heal both gastric and duodenal ulcers.
DIARRHEA? EAT APPLES!
Grate an apple with its skin, let it turn brown and eat it to cure this condition. (Bananas are good for this ailment)
CLOGGED ARTERIES? EAT AVOCADO!
Mono unsaturated fat in avocados lowers cholesterol.
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE? EAT CELERY AND OLIVE OIL!!!
Olive oil has been shown to lower blood pressure.
Celery contains a chemical that lowers pressure too.
BLOOD SUGAR IMBALANCE? EAT BROCCOLI AND PEANUTS!!!
The chromium in broccoli and peanuts helps regulate insulin and blood sugar.
Kiwi: Tiny but mighty. This is a good source of potassium, magnesium, Vitamin E &fiber. It's Vitamin C content is twice that of an orange.
Apple: An apple a day keeps the doctor away? Although an apple has a low Vitamin C content, it has antioxidants &flavonoids which enhances the activity of Vitamin C thereby helping to lower the risks of colon cancer, heart attack & stroke.
Strawberry: Protective fruit. Strawberries have the highest total antioxidant power among major fruits &protects the body from cancer causing, blood vessels clogging free radicals. (Actually, any berry is good for you..they're high in anti-oxidants and they actually keep us young.........blueberries are the best and very versatile in the health field........they get rid of all the free-radicals that invade our bodies)
Orange: Sweetest medicine. Taking 2 - 4 oranges a day may help keep colds away, lower cholesterol, prevent & dissolve kidney stones as well as lessen the risk of colon cancer.
Watermelon: Coolest Thirst Quencher. Composed of 92% water, it is also packed with a giant dose of glutathione which helps boost our immune system. They are also a key source of lycopene - the cancer fighting oxidant. Other nutrients found in watermelon are Vitamin C &Potassium. (watermelon also has natural substances [natural SPF sources] that keep our skin healthy, protecting our skin from those darn suv rays)
Guava & Papaya: Top awards for Vitamin C. They are the clear winners for their high Vitamin C content. Guava is also rich in fiber which helps prevent constipation.
Papaya is rich in carotene, this is good for your eyes. (also good for gas and indigestion)
Eat plenty of fish -- fish oil helps prevent headaches.
So does ginger, which reduces inflammation and pain.
HAVE FEVER? EAT YOGURT!
Eat lots of yogurt before pollen season.
Also-eat honey from your area (local region) daily.
TO PREVENT STROKE DRINK TEA!
Prevent buildup of fatty deposits on artery walls with regular doses of tea. (actually, tea suppresses my appetite and keeps the pounds from invading....
INSOMNIA (CAN'T SLEEP?) HONEY!
Use honey as a tranquilizer and sedative.
ASTHMA? EAT ONIONS!!!!
Eating onions helps ease constriction of bronchial tubes. (when I was young, my mother would make onion packs to place on our chest, helped the respiratory ailments and actually made us breathe better).
ARTHRITIS? EAT FISH, TOO!!
Salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines actually prevent arthritis. (fish has omega oils, good for our immune system)
UPSET STOMACH? BANANAS - GINGER!!!!!
Bananas will settle an upset stomach.
Ginger will cure morning sickness and nausea.
BLADDER INFECTION? DRINK CRANBERRY JUICE!!!!
High-acid cranberry juice controls harmful bacteria.
BONE PROBLEMS? EAT PINEAPPLE!!!
Bone fractures and osteoporosis can be prevented by the manganese in pineapple.
PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME? EAT CORNFLAKES!!
Women can ward off the effects of PMS with cornflakes, which help reduce depression, anxiety and fatigue.
MEMORY PROBLEMS? EAT OYSTERS!
Oysters help improve your mental functioning by supplying much-needed zinc.
COLDS? EAT GARLIC!
Clear up that stuffy head with garlic. (remember, garlic lowers cholesterol, too.)
COUGHING? USE RED PEPPERS!!
A substance similar to that found in the cough syrups is found in hot red pepper. Use red (cayenne) pepper with caution-it can irritate your tummy.
BREAST CANCER? EAT Wheat, bran and cabbage
Helps to maintain estrogen at healthy levels.
LUNG CANCER? EAT DARK GREEN AND
A good antidote is beta carotene, a form of Vitamin A found in dark green and orange vegetables.
ULCERS? EAT CABBAGE ALSO!!!
Cabbage contains chemicals that help heal both gastric and duodenal ulcers.
DIARRHEA? EAT APPLES!
Grate an apple with its skin, let it turn brown and eat it to cure this condition. (Bananas are good for this ailment)
CLOGGED ARTERIES? EAT AVOCADO!
Mono unsaturated fat in avocados lowers cholesterol.
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE? EAT CELERY AND OLIVE OIL!!!
Olive oil has been shown to lower blood pressure.
Celery contains a chemical that lowers pressure too.
BLOOD SUGAR IMBALANCE? EAT BROCCOLI AND PEANUTS!!!
The chromium in broccoli and peanuts helps regulate insulin and blood sugar.
Kiwi: Tiny but mighty. This is a good source of potassium, magnesium, Vitamin E &fiber. It's Vitamin C content is twice that of an orange.
Apple: An apple a day keeps the doctor away? Although an apple has a low Vitamin C content, it has antioxidants &flavonoids which enhances the activity of Vitamin C thereby helping to lower the risks of colon cancer, heart attack & stroke.
Strawberry: Protective fruit. Strawberries have the highest total antioxidant power among major fruits &protects the body from cancer causing, blood vessels clogging free radicals. (Actually, any berry is good for you..they're high in anti-oxidants and they actually keep us young.......
Orange: Sweetest medicine. Taking 2 - 4 oranges a day may help keep colds away, lower cholesterol, prevent & dissolve kidney stones as well as lessen the risk of colon cancer.
Watermelon: Coolest Thirst Quencher. Composed of 92% water, it is also packed with a giant dose of glutathione which helps boost our immune system. They are also a key source of lycopene - the cancer fighting oxidant. Other nutrients found in watermelon are Vitamin C &Potassium. (watermelon also has natural substances [natural SPF sources] that keep our skin healthy, protecting our skin from those darn suv rays)
Guava & Papaya: Top awards for Vitamin C. They are the clear winners for their high Vitamin C content. Guava is also rich in fiber which helps prevent constipation.
Papaya is rich in carotene, this is good for your eyes. (also good for gas and indigestion)
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