The Muslim Has A Sense Of Humour
The Muslim has a sense of humour, which makes people like him. He mixes with them and jokes with them when it is appropriate to do so, without going to extremes or saying anything hurtful. Similarly, when he is serious, he does not go to extremes of harshness and strictness. His humour is within the limits of Islamic tolerance, and does not go beyond the bounds of truth. This is the example of the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) and the Sahabah in their jokes and humour. It is reported that the Sahabah said to the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam): "You are joking with us." He said, "But I never say anything but the truth." (Bukhari)
How The Prophet (Sallallahu `Alayhi Wa Sallam) And The Sahabah Used To Joke..
The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) used to joke, but he never said anything but the truth in his jokes. The Sahabah took the same approach to humour. There are many delightful reports about the jokes exchanged between the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) and the Sahabah. Among the stories related in the books of hadith and sirah is the report that the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) used to joke with the small child of one of the Sahabah, a boy called Abu 'Umayr, who had a small bird he used to play with. One day he saw the child looking sad, so he said, "Why do I see Abu 'Umayr looking sad?" The Sahabah told him, "The nughar [a small bird, like a sparrow - author] which he used to play with has died, O Messenger of Allah." The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) began to gently joke with the child, saying, "O Abu Umayr, what happened to the nughayr?" [Nughayr: diminutive of nughar. - author. In Arabic, this is a play on words, because of the rhyme between the boy's name and that of the bird. - Translator. This story was reported in Hayat al-Sahabah, 3/149]
A man came to the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) to ask him to give him a beast to ride. The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) jokingly told him, I will give you the offspring of a she-camel to ride." He said, "O Messenger of Allah (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam), what will I do with the offspring of a she-camel?" The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said: "Are riding-camels born except from she-camels?" [Reported by Ahmad, Abu Dawud and al-Tirmidhi, with a sahih isnad.]
Imam Ahmad reported from Anas (radhiallahu `anhu) that there was a man from the desert people whose name was Zahir. He used to bring gifts from the desert to the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam), and in return the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) would provide him with whatever he needed when he went out to fight. The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said, "Zahir is our man of the desert, and we are his town-dwellers." The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) loved him very much, and he (Zahir) was an ugly man. One day the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) came to him whilst he was selling some goods. He embraced him from behind. The man could not see him, so he said, "Let me go! Who is this?" Then he turned around and recognized the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam), so he tried to move closer to him once he knew who it was. The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) started to say, "Who will buy this slave?" Zahir said, "O Messenger of Allah (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam), you will find me unsellable." The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said, "But in the sight of Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) you are not unsellable," or he said, "But in the sight of Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) you are valuable."
An old woman came to the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) and said: "O Messenger of Allah, pray to Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) that I will enter Paradise." He said jokingly, "O Mother of So-and-so, no old women will enter Paradise." The old woman went away crying, so the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said, "Tell her that she will not enter Paradise as an old woman, for Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) says: (We have created [their Companions] of special creation, and made them virgin-pure [and undefiled]) (Qur'an 56:35-36)." Reported by al-Tirmidhi, it is hasan because of the existence of corroborating reports.
One of the hadiths that reflects the Prophet's sense of humour and enjoyment of fun is the report that Ahmad gives ftom 'A'ishah who said: "I went out with the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) on a journey. At that time I was a young girl and was quite slender. The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) told the people, 'Go on ahead,' so they went ahead, then he said to me, 'Come, let us have a race.' So I raced with him, and I won. He let the matter rest until I had gained weight. Later, I accompanied him on another journey. He told the people, 'Go on ahead,' so they went ahead. He said to me, 'Come, let us have a race.' So I raced with him, and he won. He began to laugh, and said, 'This is for that."'
The Sahabah saw nothing wrong with joking or having fun, as they saw the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam), their leader and teacher, occasionally doing so. The many delightful stories about their sense of humour reflect the easy-going nature of the first Islamic society, and how far removed it was from narrow-mindedness and gloom.
In al-Adab al-Mufrad, Bukhari reports from Bakr ibn 'Abdillah who said: "The Companions of the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam ) used to throw melon-rinds at one another, but when the matter was serious, they were the only true men."
This is moderate, Islamically acceptable humour, which does not go beyond the bounds of truth, or lessen the gravitas or manhood of a person. Rather, it serves its purpose of refreshing hearts and minds.
An example of the Sahabah's sense of humour, which made the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) laugh, is the report given by Imam Ahmad from Umm. Salamah (radhiallahu `anha). Abil Bakr (radhiallahu `anhu) went to do business in Busra, and with him were Nu'ayman and Suwaybit ibn Harmalah (radhiallahu `anhuma), both of whom had been present at Badr. Suwaybit was in charge of food on the journey, and Nu'ayman said to him, "Feed me!" Suwaybit said, "Not until Abu Bakr (radhiallahu `anhu) comes." Nu'ayman was a fun-loving man with a sense of humour, so he went to some people who had brought livestock with them, and said, "Will you buy a sturdy Arab slave from me?" They said, "Yes." He said, "He has a big mouth, and he may tell you that he is a free man. If that means that you do not want to take him, then forget the matter, and do not cause trouble for me with him." They said, "No problem, we will buy him." So they bought him for ten young she-camels. Nu'ayman brought the animals back, and told the people: "There he is!" Suwaybit said: "I am a free man!" They said, "He has already told us all about you," and put a rope around his neck and led him away. Then Abu Bakr came, and was told what had happened. He and his companions went and returned the animals and took Suwaybit back. They told the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) what had happened, and he and his Sahabah would laugh about the story for a year afterwards.
A Bedouin came to the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam). He entered the mosque and left his camel in the courtyard. Some of his Companions said to Nu'ayman ibn 'Amr al-Ansari, who was known as al-Nu'ayman: "If you slaughter it, we will eat it, because we want to have some meat, and the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) will pay for it." So al-Nu'ayman slaughtered it. Then the Bedouin came out and saw his saddle, so he shouted, "They have slaughtered my camel, O Muhammad!" The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) came out and asked: "Who did this?" They said, "Al-Nu'ayman." So he went looking for him, and found him at the home of Duba'ah bint al-Zubayr ibn 'Abdul Muttalib (radhiallahu `anha), where he had hidden in a ditch and covered himself with palm branches and leaves. A man pointed to where he was and said, loudly, "I have not seen him, O Messenger of Allah." The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) brought him out of the ditch, and his face was dirty from where the leaves had fallen on him. The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) asked him, "Why did you do that?" Al-Nu'ayrnan said: "The ones who told you where I was, O Messenger of Allah, are the same ones who told me to do it." The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) began wiping his face and laughing, then he paid the price of the slaughtered camel. [See Hayat As Sahabah, 3/154, 155]
There is no clearer indication than these and similar reports of the lightheartedness and sense of humour that Islam wants its followers to have. These qualities will make a person good-natured and likeable, which will enable him to win people's hearts. No one needs such characteristics more than the Muslim who seeks to call others to Islam.
Wednesday, August 18, 2004
Monday, August 16, 2004
Empower your child with a religious education
By Shaykh Sikander Syed Hashmi
The ideal age to send a child to an Islamic boarding school is around 10-11. Doing so usually enables the child to easily adjust to life in madrasah, and usually gives enough time to complete a religious as well as a high school education, after which the child can easily pursue a post-secondary education.
Some may see acquiring an academic education as being useless after acquiring a religious education, or vice versa. That is not the case, since no education is useless. If anything, the more education one acquires, the more it opens one’s mind and widens one’s scope of knowledge and understanding of issues.
Religious education should be the priority at an early age, because once the early years have passed, acquiring a religious education can become a serious challenge. If the base in religious education is strong, most children can easily accelerate in academic education as well, since a good part of what is taught in in-depth religious courses is deep, university-level material that opens the mind and requires critical thinking and logic.
Apart from all the benefits of studying at a madrasah from an educational point of view, madrasah life in itself makes one a much stronger individual.
Under the protective wings of their parents, children nowadays are becoming more and more spoiled and pampered, which often leaves them as wimps and creatures of comfort always in need of being served. When they get a little older and start going to college/university, begin working, and then subsequently get married, they have a hard time adjusting to the many new responsibilities and new real-life struggles.
Madrasah students often tend to be much more cultured and tamed in this respect. When one has to do his/her own laundry, wash his/her own dishes, wake up on time, help in cleaning, iron one’s own clothes, and live with being sick without the parents at one’s side, all at an early age, it has a long-term effect that usually shows when one’s stamina, creativity, and independence are called into question.
In my case, I know that had I not been sent to madrasah for almost 10 years at the age of 11, I would be the biggest Mama’s boy on the block. Apart from all the education I was (Alhamdulillah) able to acquire at madrasah, I would be deprived of a number of skills and experiences had I stayed home.
At madrasah, I had the opportunity to cook breakfast for 50+ people, mop the floors, use the buffing machine, drive the tractor, develop sales and marketing skills while operating the school snack shop, clean toilets, shop in bulk, and the list goes on and on. I wasn’t forced to do any, and when I think about it now, I’m glad that I took part, as the experience and skill I gained are invaluable.
Religious education does not put one at a disadvantage in today’s competitive world. In fact, it does the opposite, as the madrasah graduate (who has also completed high school) has so much more to offer in terms of understanding and experience than the average high school graduate.
Islamic boarding schools are not perfect. While they may have their shortcomings and disadvantages, if a proper balance of parental guidance and nurturing is maintained along with life in a madrasah, in the end, those very shortcomings can be turned around into positive advantages for the child in the long-term.
Sikander Hashmi, 21, recently graduated from the Alim Program at Al-Rashid Islamic Institute in Cornwall, Ontario, and is now headed to Concordia University in Montreal for a BA Major in Journalism. He is the founder and editor of eat-halal.com, and resides in Montreal.
By Shaykh Sikander Syed Hashmi
The ideal age to send a child to an Islamic boarding school is around 10-11. Doing so usually enables the child to easily adjust to life in madrasah, and usually gives enough time to complete a religious as well as a high school education, after which the child can easily pursue a post-secondary education.
Some may see acquiring an academic education as being useless after acquiring a religious education, or vice versa. That is not the case, since no education is useless. If anything, the more education one acquires, the more it opens one’s mind and widens one’s scope of knowledge and understanding of issues.
Religious education should be the priority at an early age, because once the early years have passed, acquiring a religious education can become a serious challenge. If the base in religious education is strong, most children can easily accelerate in academic education as well, since a good part of what is taught in in-depth religious courses is deep, university-level material that opens the mind and requires critical thinking and logic.
Apart from all the benefits of studying at a madrasah from an educational point of view, madrasah life in itself makes one a much stronger individual.
Under the protective wings of their parents, children nowadays are becoming more and more spoiled and pampered, which often leaves them as wimps and creatures of comfort always in need of being served. When they get a little older and start going to college/university, begin working, and then subsequently get married, they have a hard time adjusting to the many new responsibilities and new real-life struggles.
Madrasah students often tend to be much more cultured and tamed in this respect. When one has to do his/her own laundry, wash his/her own dishes, wake up on time, help in cleaning, iron one’s own clothes, and live with being sick without the parents at one’s side, all at an early age, it has a long-term effect that usually shows when one’s stamina, creativity, and independence are called into question.
In my case, I know that had I not been sent to madrasah for almost 10 years at the age of 11, I would be the biggest Mama’s boy on the block. Apart from all the education I was (Alhamdulillah) able to acquire at madrasah, I would be deprived of a number of skills and experiences had I stayed home.
At madrasah, I had the opportunity to cook breakfast for 50+ people, mop the floors, use the buffing machine, drive the tractor, develop sales and marketing skills while operating the school snack shop, clean toilets, shop in bulk, and the list goes on and on. I wasn’t forced to do any, and when I think about it now, I’m glad that I took part, as the experience and skill I gained are invaluable.
Religious education does not put one at a disadvantage in today’s competitive world. In fact, it does the opposite, as the madrasah graduate (who has also completed high school) has so much more to offer in terms of understanding and experience than the average high school graduate.
Islamic boarding schools are not perfect. While they may have their shortcomings and disadvantages, if a proper balance of parental guidance and nurturing is maintained along with life in a madrasah, in the end, those very shortcomings can be turned around into positive advantages for the child in the long-term.
Sikander Hashmi, 21, recently graduated from the Alim Program at Al-Rashid Islamic Institute in Cornwall, Ontario, and is now headed to Concordia University in Montreal for a BA Major in Journalism. He is the founder and editor of eat-halal.com, and resides in Montreal.
King's Highway
Once, a king had a great highway built for the members of his kingdom.
After it was completed, but before it was opened to the public, the king decided to have a contest. He invited as many as desired to participate. Their challenge was to see who could travel the highway the best.
On the day of the contest, the people came. Some of them had fine chariots, some had fine clothing, fine hairdos, or great food. Some young men came in their track clothes and ran along the highway.
People traveled the highway all day, but each one, when he arrived at the end, complained to the king that there was a large pile of rocks and debris left on the road at one spot, and this got in their way and hindered their travel.
At the end of the day, a lone traveler crossed the finish line wearily and walked over to the king. He was tired and dirty, but he addressed the king with great respect and handed him a bag of gold. He explained, "I stopped along the way to clear a pile of rocks and debris that was blocking the road. This bag of gold was under it all. I want you to return it to its rightful owner."
The king replied, "You are the rightful owner."
The traveler replied, "Oh no, this is not mine. I've never known such money."
"Oh yes," said the king, "you've earned this gold, for you won my contest. He who travels the road best is he who makes the road smoother for those who will follow."
Author Unknown
Once, a king had a great highway built for the members of his kingdom.
After it was completed, but before it was opened to the public, the king decided to have a contest. He invited as many as desired to participate. Their challenge was to see who could travel the highway the best.
On the day of the contest, the people came. Some of them had fine chariots, some had fine clothing, fine hairdos, or great food. Some young men came in their track clothes and ran along the highway.
People traveled the highway all day, but each one, when he arrived at the end, complained to the king that there was a large pile of rocks and debris left on the road at one spot, and this got in their way and hindered their travel.
At the end of the day, a lone traveler crossed the finish line wearily and walked over to the king. He was tired and dirty, but he addressed the king with great respect and handed him a bag of gold. He explained, "I stopped along the way to clear a pile of rocks and debris that was blocking the road. This bag of gold was under it all. I want you to return it to its rightful owner."
The king replied, "You are the rightful owner."
The traveler replied, "Oh no, this is not mine. I've never known such money."
"Oh yes," said the king, "you've earned this gold, for you won my contest. He who travels the road best is he who makes the road smoother for those who will follow."
Author Unknown
ALLAH KNOWS BEST
…ALLAH KNOWS- When you are tired and discouraged from fruitless efforts.
…ALLAH KNOWS- how hard you have tried!
When you have cried so long and your heart is in anguish …ALLAH HAS COUNTED YOUR TEARS!
If you feel that your life is on hold and time has passed you by …ALLAH IS WAITING WITH YOU!
When you are lonely and your friends are too busy even For a phone call …ALLAH IS BY YOUR SIDE!
When you think you have tried everything and don't know where to turn …ALLAH HAS A SOLUTION!
When nothing makes sense and you are confused or frustrated…ALLAH HAS THE ANSWER!
If suddenly your outlook is brighter and you find traces of hope …ALLAH HAS WHISPERED TO YOU!
When things are going well and you have much to be thankful for …ALLAH HAS BLESSED YOU!
When something joyful happens and you are filled with awe …ALLAH HAS SMILED UPON YOU!
When you have a purpose to fulfil and a dream to follow …ALLAH HAS OPENED YOUR EYES AND CALLED YOU BY NAME!
REMEMBER THAT WHEREVER YOU ARE OR WHATEVER YOU ARE FACING …ALLAH KNOWS, ALLAH KNOWS, ALLAH KNOWS…
Here's something that might help you understand why difficult things Happen to us sometimes.
A man found a cocoon of a butterfly…
One day a small opening appeared.
He sat and watched the butterfly for several hours as it struggled to force its body through that little hole.
Then it seemed to stop making any progress.
It appeared as if it had gotten as far as it could, and it could go no further.
So the man decided to help the butterfly.
He took a pair of scissors and snipped off the remaining bit of the cocoon.
The butterfly then emerged easily.
But it had a swollen body and small, shrivelled wings.
The man continued to watch the butterfly because he expected that, at any moment, the wings would enlarge and expand to be able to support the body, which would contract in time.
Neither happened!
In fact, the butterfly spent the rest of its life crawling around with a swollen body and shrivelled wings.
It never was able to fly.
What the man, in his kindness and haste, did not understand was that the restricting cocoon and the struggle required for the butterfly to get through the tiny opening were Allah's way of forcing fluid from the body of the butterfly into its wings so that it would be ready for flight once it achieved its freedom from the cocoon.
Sometimes struggles are exactly what we need in our lives.
If Allah allowed us to go through our lives without any obstacles, it would cripple us.
We would not be as strong as what we could have been.
We could never "fly"!
…ALLAH KNOWS- When you are tired and discouraged from fruitless efforts.
…ALLAH KNOWS- how hard you have tried!
When you have cried so long and your heart is in anguish …ALLAH HAS COUNTED YOUR TEARS!
If you feel that your life is on hold and time has passed you by …ALLAH IS WAITING WITH YOU!
When you are lonely and your friends are too busy even For a phone call …ALLAH IS BY YOUR SIDE!
When you think you have tried everything and don't know where to turn …ALLAH HAS A SOLUTION!
When nothing makes sense and you are confused or frustrated…ALLAH HAS THE ANSWER!
If suddenly your outlook is brighter and you find traces of hope …ALLAH HAS WHISPERED TO YOU!
When things are going well and you have much to be thankful for …ALLAH HAS BLESSED YOU!
When something joyful happens and you are filled with awe …ALLAH HAS SMILED UPON YOU!
When you have a purpose to fulfil and a dream to follow …ALLAH HAS OPENED YOUR EYES AND CALLED YOU BY NAME!
REMEMBER THAT WHEREVER YOU ARE OR WHATEVER YOU ARE FACING …ALLAH KNOWS, ALLAH KNOWS, ALLAH KNOWS…
Here's something that might help you understand why difficult things Happen to us sometimes.
A man found a cocoon of a butterfly…
One day a small opening appeared.
He sat and watched the butterfly for several hours as it struggled to force its body through that little hole.
Then it seemed to stop making any progress.
It appeared as if it had gotten as far as it could, and it could go no further.
So the man decided to help the butterfly.
He took a pair of scissors and snipped off the remaining bit of the cocoon.
The butterfly then emerged easily.
But it had a swollen body and small, shrivelled wings.
The man continued to watch the butterfly because he expected that, at any moment, the wings would enlarge and expand to be able to support the body, which would contract in time.
Neither happened!
In fact, the butterfly spent the rest of its life crawling around with a swollen body and shrivelled wings.
It never was able to fly.
What the man, in his kindness and haste, did not understand was that the restricting cocoon and the struggle required for the butterfly to get through the tiny opening were Allah's way of forcing fluid from the body of the butterfly into its wings so that it would be ready for flight once it achieved its freedom from the cocoon.
Sometimes struggles are exactly what we need in our lives.
If Allah allowed us to go through our lives without any obstacles, it would cripple us.
We would not be as strong as what we could have been.
We could never "fly"!
Sunday, August 15, 2004
Why She Won't Wear Hijab!
a discussion by A.Q. Alidost
"I'm so tired"
"Tired of what?"
"Of all these people judging me."
"Who judged you?"
"Like that woman, every time I sit with her, she tells me to wear hijab."
"Oh, hijab and music! The mother of all topics!"
"Yeah! I listen to music without hijab…haha!"
"Maybe she was just giving you advice."
"I don't need her advice. I know my religion. Can`t she mind her own
business?"
"Maybe you misunderstood. She was just being nice."
"Keeping out of my business, that would be nice..."
"But it's her duty to encourage you do to good."
"Trust me. That was no encouragement. And what do you mean `good` ?"
"Well, wearing hijab, that would be a good thing to do."
"Says who?"
"It's in the Qur'an, isn't it?"
"Yes. She did quote me something."
"She said Surah Nur, and other places of the Qur'an."
"Yes, but it's not a big sin anyway. Helping people and praying is more
important."
"True. But big things start with small things."
"That's a good point, but what you wear is not important. What's important
is to have a good healthy heart."
"What you wear is not important?"
"That's what I said."
"Then why do you spend an hour every morning fixing up?"
"What do you mean?"
"You spend money on cosmetics, not to mention all the time you spend on
fixing your hair and low-carb dieting."
"So?"
"So, your appearance IS important."
"No. I said wearing hijab is not an important thing in religion."
"If it's not an important thing in religion, why is it mentioned in the Holy
Qur'an?"
"You know I can't follow all that's in Qur'an."
"You mean God tells you something to do, you disobey and then it's OK?"
"Yes. God is forgiving."
"God is forgiving to those who repent and do not repeat their mistakes."
"Says who?"
"Says the same book that tells you to cover."
"But I don't like hijab, it limits my freedom."
"But the lotions, lipsticks, mascara and other cosmetics set you free?!
What`s your definition of freedom anyway?"
"Freedom is in doing whatever you like to do."
"No. Freedom is in doing the right thing, not in doing whatever we wish to
do."
"Look! I've seen so many people who don't wear hijab and are nice people,
and so many who wear hijab and are bad people."
"So what? There are people who are nice to you but are alcoholic. Should we
all be alcoholics? You made a stupid point."
"I don't want to be an extremist or a fanatic. I'm OK the way I am without
hijab."
"Then you are a secular fanatic. An extremist in disobeying God."
"You don't get it, if I wear hijab, who would marry me?!"
"So all these people with hijab never get married?!"
"Okay! What if I get married and my husband doesn't like it? And wants me to
remove it?"
"What if your husband wants you to go out with him on a bank robbery?!"
"That's irrelevant, bank robbery is a crime."
"Disobeying your Creator is not a crime?"
"But then who would hire me?"
"A company that respects people for who they are."
"Not after 9-11"
"Yes. After 9-11. Don't you know about Hanan who just got into med school?
And the other one, what was her name, the girl who always wore a white
hijab…ummm…"
"Yasmeen?"
"Yes. Yasmeen. She just finished her MBA and is now interning for GE."
"Why do you reduce religion to a piece of cloth anyway?"
"Why do you reduce womanhood to high heals and lipstick colors?"
"You didn't answer my question."
"In fact, I did. Hijab is not just a piece of cloth. It is obeying God in a
difficult environment. It is courage, faith in action, and true womanhood.
But your short sleeves, tight pants…"
"That's called `fashion`, you live in a cave or
something? First of all, hijab was founded by men who wanted to control
women."
"Really? I did not know men could control women by hijab."
"Yes. That's what it is."
"What about the women who fight their husbands to wear hijab? And women in
France who are forced to remove their hijab by men? What do you say about
that?"
"Well, that's different."
"What difference? The woman who asked you to wear hijab…she was a woman,
right?"
"Right, but…"
"But fashions that are designed and promoted by male-dominated corporations,
set you free? Men have no control on exposing women and using them as a
commodity?! Give me a break!"
"Wait, let me finish, I was saying…"
"Saying what? You think that men control women by hijab?"
"Yes."
"Specifically how?"
"By telling women how and what to wear, dummy!"
"Doesn't TV, magazines and movies tell you what to wear, and how to be
`attractive'?"
"Of course, it's fashion."
"Isn't that control? Pressuring you to wear what they want you to wear?"
Silence
"Not just controlling you, but also controlling the market."
"What do you mean?"
"I mean, you are told to look skinny and anorexic like that woman on the
cover of the magazine, by men who design those magazines and sell those
products."
"I don't get it. What does hijab have to do with
products."
"It has everything to do with that. Don't you see? Hijab is a threat to
consumerism, women who spend billions of dollars to look skinny and live by
standards of fashion designed by men…and then here is Islam, saying trash
all that nonsense and focus on your soul, not on your looks, and do not
worry what men think of your looks."
"Like I don't have to buy hijab? Isn't hijab a
product?"
"Yes, it is. It is a product that sets you free from
male-dominated consumerism."
"Stop lecturing me! I WILL NOT WEAR HIJAB! It is awkward, outdated, and
totally not suitable for this society ... Moreover, I am only 20 and too
young to wear hijab!"
"Fine. Say that to your Lord, when you face Him on Judgment Day."
"Fine."
"Fine."
Silence
"Shut up and I don't want to hear more about hijab niqab schmijab Punjab!"
Silence
She stared at the mirror, tired of arguing with herself all this time.
Successful enough, she managed to shut the voices in her head, with her own
opinions triumphant in victory on the matter, and a
final modern decision accepted by the society, rejected by the Faith: Yes to
curls on the hair, no to hijab.
"And he (/she) is indeed a failure who corrupts it [the soul]!" [Holy
Qur'an, 91/10]
Subhana'Allah!!!
"Nay! you prefer the life of this world, While the hereafter is
better and more lasting." [Quran- 87: 16-17]
You are the best community (Ummah) raised up for (the benefit of) humanity;
enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong and believing in Allah
[AL QUR'AN 3:110]
a discussion by A.Q. Alidost
"I'm so tired"
"Tired of what?"
"Of all these people judging me."
"Who judged you?"
"Like that woman, every time I sit with her, she tells me to wear hijab."
"Oh, hijab and music! The mother of all topics!"
"Yeah! I listen to music without hijab…haha!"
"Maybe she was just giving you advice."
"I don't need her advice. I know my religion. Can`t she mind her own
business?"
"Maybe you misunderstood. She was just being nice."
"Keeping out of my business, that would be nice..."
"But it's her duty to encourage you do to good."
"Trust me. That was no encouragement. And what do you mean `good` ?"
"Well, wearing hijab, that would be a good thing to do."
"Says who?"
"It's in the Qur'an, isn't it?"
"Yes. She did quote me something."
"She said Surah Nur, and other places of the Qur'an."
"Yes, but it's not a big sin anyway. Helping people and praying is more
important."
"True. But big things start with small things."
"That's a good point, but what you wear is not important. What's important
is to have a good healthy heart."
"What you wear is not important?"
"That's what I said."
"Then why do you spend an hour every morning fixing up?"
"What do you mean?"
"You spend money on cosmetics, not to mention all the time you spend on
fixing your hair and low-carb dieting."
"So?"
"So, your appearance IS important."
"No. I said wearing hijab is not an important thing in religion."
"If it's not an important thing in religion, why is it mentioned in the Holy
Qur'an?"
"You know I can't follow all that's in Qur'an."
"You mean God tells you something to do, you disobey and then it's OK?"
"Yes. God is forgiving."
"God is forgiving to those who repent and do not repeat their mistakes."
"Says who?"
"Says the same book that tells you to cover."
"But I don't like hijab, it limits my freedom."
"But the lotions, lipsticks, mascara and other cosmetics set you free?!
What`s your definition of freedom anyway?"
"Freedom is in doing whatever you like to do."
"No. Freedom is in doing the right thing, not in doing whatever we wish to
do."
"Look! I've seen so many people who don't wear hijab and are nice people,
and so many who wear hijab and are bad people."
"So what? There are people who are nice to you but are alcoholic. Should we
all be alcoholics? You made a stupid point."
"I don't want to be an extremist or a fanatic. I'm OK the way I am without
hijab."
"Then you are a secular fanatic. An extremist in disobeying God."
"You don't get it, if I wear hijab, who would marry me?!"
"So all these people with hijab never get married?!"
"Okay! What if I get married and my husband doesn't like it? And wants me to
remove it?"
"What if your husband wants you to go out with him on a bank robbery?!"
"That's irrelevant, bank robbery is a crime."
"Disobeying your Creator is not a crime?"
"But then who would hire me?"
"A company that respects people for who they are."
"Not after 9-11"
"Yes. After 9-11. Don't you know about Hanan who just got into med school?
And the other one, what was her name, the girl who always wore a white
hijab…ummm…"
"Yasmeen?"
"Yes. Yasmeen. She just finished her MBA and is now interning for GE."
"Why do you reduce religion to a piece of cloth anyway?"
"Why do you reduce womanhood to high heals and lipstick colors?"
"You didn't answer my question."
"In fact, I did. Hijab is not just a piece of cloth. It is obeying God in a
difficult environment. It is courage, faith in action, and true womanhood.
But your short sleeves, tight pants…"
"That's called `fashion`, you live in a cave or
something? First of all, hijab was founded by men who wanted to control
women."
"Really? I did not know men could control women by hijab."
"Yes. That's what it is."
"What about the women who fight their husbands to wear hijab? And women in
France who are forced to remove their hijab by men? What do you say about
that?"
"Well, that's different."
"What difference? The woman who asked you to wear hijab…she was a woman,
right?"
"Right, but…"
"But fashions that are designed and promoted by male-dominated corporations,
set you free? Men have no control on exposing women and using them as a
commodity?! Give me a break!"
"Wait, let me finish, I was saying…"
"Saying what? You think that men control women by hijab?"
"Yes."
"Specifically how?"
"By telling women how and what to wear, dummy!"
"Doesn't TV, magazines and movies tell you what to wear, and how to be
`attractive'?"
"Of course, it's fashion."
"Isn't that control? Pressuring you to wear what they want you to wear?"
Silence
"Not just controlling you, but also controlling the market."
"What do you mean?"
"I mean, you are told to look skinny and anorexic like that woman on the
cover of the magazine, by men who design those magazines and sell those
products."
"I don't get it. What does hijab have to do with
products."
"It has everything to do with that. Don't you see? Hijab is a threat to
consumerism, women who spend billions of dollars to look skinny and live by
standards of fashion designed by men…and then here is Islam, saying trash
all that nonsense and focus on your soul, not on your looks, and do not
worry what men think of your looks."
"Like I don't have to buy hijab? Isn't hijab a
product?"
"Yes, it is. It is a product that sets you free from
male-dominated consumerism."
"Stop lecturing me! I WILL NOT WEAR HIJAB! It is awkward, outdated, and
totally not suitable for this society ... Moreover, I am only 20 and too
young to wear hijab!"
"Fine. Say that to your Lord, when you face Him on Judgment Day."
"Fine."
"Fine."
Silence
"Shut up and I don't want to hear more about hijab niqab schmijab Punjab!"
Silence
She stared at the mirror, tired of arguing with herself all this time.
Successful enough, she managed to shut the voices in her head, with her own
opinions triumphant in victory on the matter, and a
final modern decision accepted by the society, rejected by the Faith: Yes to
curls on the hair, no to hijab.
"And he (/she) is indeed a failure who corrupts it [the soul]!" [Holy
Qur'an, 91/10]
Subhana'Allah!!!
"Nay! you prefer the life of this world, While the hereafter is
better and more lasting." [Quran- 87: 16-17]
You are the best community (Ummah) raised up for (the benefit of) humanity;
enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong and believing in Allah
[AL QUR'AN 3:110]
Saturday, August 14, 2004
The Hidden Shirk
Abu Saeed reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) came to us while we were discussing about Dajjal and said, "Should I not inform you of that which I fear for you even more than the dangers of Dajjal? It is the hidden Shirk (Riya); A person stands to pray, and he beautifies his prayer because he sees the people looking at him." (Sunan Ibn Majah vol. 2, #3389)
The primary cause of riya is a weakness in Iman (Faith). When a person does not have strong faith in Allah, he will prefer the admiration of people over the pleasure of Allah.
There are three symptoms that are indicative of riya, and it is essential that a believer avoid all of them.
1. The love of Praise - As mentioned in a hadeeth of the first three people being thrown into the hellfire; the scholar (who taught for fame), the martyr (who fought for fame), and the person who gave his money in charity (so people would say he is generous). All three of these people desired the pleasure of people over the pleasure of Allah. The person who desires the praise of people must feel some pride in himself, for he feels himself worthy of being praised. There is a danger, therefore, of him becoming arrogant and boastful.
2. Fear Of Criticism - No one likes to be criticised. The dislike of criticism regarding religious practices may be divided into two categories:
a) The first category is that of a person who neglects a commandment of Allah in order to avoid the criticism of his peers.
b) The second category is that of a person who obeys certain commandments of Islam, not for the sake of Allah, but because he fears people will look down on him and criticise him if he does not do it. For example, a man may make his formal prayers in the mosque because he does not want people to criticise him for praying at home, or to think that he is not praying at all.
3. Greed for people's possessions - If a person covets what other people possess, whether it is rank, money or power, then he will wish them to envy him similarly. For example, if he is jealous of a position of a certain person in society, he will try by every possible means to attain the same position. Such desires lead people to spend their lives putting on a show for other people so that they will admire their rank, money, or power.
Source:
"Riyaa: Hidden Shirk" - Abu Ammar Yasir al-Qathi
Abu Saeed reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) came to us while we were discussing about Dajjal and said, "Should I not inform you of that which I fear for you even more than the dangers of Dajjal? It is the hidden Shirk (Riya); A person stands to pray, and he beautifies his prayer because he sees the people looking at him." (Sunan Ibn Majah vol. 2, #3389)
The primary cause of riya is a weakness in Iman (Faith). When a person does not have strong faith in Allah, he will prefer the admiration of people over the pleasure of Allah.
There are three symptoms that are indicative of riya, and it is essential that a believer avoid all of them.
1. The love of Praise - As mentioned in a hadeeth of the first three people being thrown into the hellfire; the scholar (who taught for fame), the martyr (who fought for fame), and the person who gave his money in charity (so people would say he is generous). All three of these people desired the pleasure of people over the pleasure of Allah. The person who desires the praise of people must feel some pride in himself, for he feels himself worthy of being praised. There is a danger, therefore, of him becoming arrogant and boastful.
2. Fear Of Criticism - No one likes to be criticised. The dislike of criticism regarding religious practices may be divided into two categories:
a) The first category is that of a person who neglects a commandment of Allah in order to avoid the criticism of his peers.
b) The second category is that of a person who obeys certain commandments of Islam, not for the sake of Allah, but because he fears people will look down on him and criticise him if he does not do it. For example, a man may make his formal prayers in the mosque because he does not want people to criticise him for praying at home, or to think that he is not praying at all.
3. Greed for people's possessions - If a person covets what other people possess, whether it is rank, money or power, then he will wish them to envy him similarly. For example, if he is jealous of a position of a certain person in society, he will try by every possible means to attain the same position. Such desires lead people to spend their lives putting on a show for other people so that they will admire their rank, money, or power.
Source:
"Riyaa: Hidden Shirk" - Abu Ammar Yasir al-Qathi
Al-Naml (The Ant)
Chapter 27: Verse 4
Stumbling in Perplexity
"As for those who do not believe in the Hereafter, We have made their deeds appear attractive to them so they stumble around in perplexity."
This is the Law of Nature devised by God. Such is human psychology that when a man thinks that the results of the struggle in this life are limited to this world only, when he is not convinced that there is another Court of Law in which the whole of his life will be judged and a final verdict passed on his performance, when he is not sure that there will be another life following the present one - a life wherein he will receive the true measure of reward and punishment in consideration of his deeds - he is bound to develop a materialistic worldview. All discussion concerning the conflict between Truth and falsehood, between God's Unity and polytheism, between good and evil, and between morality and immorality appear to him as meaningless. Whatever can bring him pleasure, enjoyment, material betterment and luxuriant living, and whatever can endow him with power and authority will seem good to him, regardless of all moral and philosophical considerations. His only goal will be the pursuit of worldly advantage and this will make him wander around in every direction.
Seized with this behaviour, a man's evil deeds become attractive and charming. Making evil deeds attractive is sometimes attributed to God and sometimes to Satan. When it is attributed to God, it means, as in the above context, that whoever accepts such an attitude to life, naturally becomes infatuated with it. By contrast, when it is attributed to Satan, it means that Satan presents those people who subscribe to a materialistic worldview with an imaginary picture of a seductive heaven and continually prods him, saying: "Go ahead, you are doing well." (see for instance Surah Al-Ankabut 29: 38)
Source:
"Towards Understanding the Quran" - Abul Ala Mawdudi, Vol 7, p 137
Chapter 27: Verse 4
Stumbling in Perplexity
"As for those who do not believe in the Hereafter, We have made their deeds appear attractive to them so they stumble around in perplexity."
This is the Law of Nature devised by God. Such is human psychology that when a man thinks that the results of the struggle in this life are limited to this world only, when he is not convinced that there is another Court of Law in which the whole of his life will be judged and a final verdict passed on his performance, when he is not sure that there will be another life following the present one - a life wherein he will receive the true measure of reward and punishment in consideration of his deeds - he is bound to develop a materialistic worldview. All discussion concerning the conflict between Truth and falsehood, between God's Unity and polytheism, between good and evil, and between morality and immorality appear to him as meaningless. Whatever can bring him pleasure, enjoyment, material betterment and luxuriant living, and whatever can endow him with power and authority will seem good to him, regardless of all moral and philosophical considerations. His only goal will be the pursuit of worldly advantage and this will make him wander around in every direction.
Seized with this behaviour, a man's evil deeds become attractive and charming. Making evil deeds attractive is sometimes attributed to God and sometimes to Satan. When it is attributed to God, it means, as in the above context, that whoever accepts such an attitude to life, naturally becomes infatuated with it. By contrast, when it is attributed to Satan, it means that Satan presents those people who subscribe to a materialistic worldview with an imaginary picture of a seductive heaven and continually prods him, saying: "Go ahead, you are doing well." (see for instance Surah Al-Ankabut 29: 38)
Source:
"Towards Understanding the Quran" - Abul Ala Mawdudi, Vol 7, p 137
Friday, August 13, 2004
Use of the car
A young boy had just gotten his driving permit. He asked his father, who was a minister, if they could discuss the use of the car.
His father took him to his study and said to him,
"I`ll make a deal with you. You bring your grades up, study your bible a little and get your hair cut and we`ll talk about it."
After about a month the boy came back and again asked his father if they could discuss use of the car. They again went to the father`s study where his father said,
"Son, I`ve been real proud of you. You have brought your grades up, you`ve studied your bible diligently, but you didn`t get your hair cut!"
The young man waited a moment and replied,
"You know Dad, I`ve been thinking about that. You know, Samson had long hair, Moses had long hair, Noah had long hair, and even Jesus had long hair..."
To which his father replied,
"Yes, and they WALKED every where they went, too!"
A young boy had just gotten his driving permit. He asked his father, who was a minister, if they could discuss the use of the car.
His father took him to his study and said to him,
"I`ll make a deal with you. You bring your grades up, study your bible a little and get your hair cut and we`ll talk about it."
After about a month the boy came back and again asked his father if they could discuss use of the car. They again went to the father`s study where his father said,
"Son, I`ve been real proud of you. You have brought your grades up, you`ve studied your bible diligently, but you didn`t get your hair cut!"
The young man waited a moment and replied,
"You know Dad, I`ve been thinking about that. You know, Samson had long hair, Moses had long hair, Noah had long hair, and even Jesus had long hair..."
To which his father replied,
"Yes, and they WALKED every where they went, too!"
TIPS FOR TEENS ON HOW TO HANDLE PORNOGRAPHY
It's hard, especially when you're a teenager and bombarded with images of sexuality: that hot-looking scantily clad guy or gal in the magazine, grinning at you and luring you; or the persistent emphasis on sex in the movies (even Toy Story!); or the pervasive links to pornography and ad banners that pop up while you may simply be checking your e-mail or researching something for school. How does a young Muslim protect him or herself from all of this? Below are some tips that can help:
Tip 1 - Know what is Halal and what's not
We may think only hard core pornography is Islamically unacceptable. This is not true. Improperly dressed men and women, sexual situations, foreplay, kissing, touching, dirty jokes: none of these are Islamically acceptable. Talk to a trusted Muslim friend, family member of the same gender or an Imam about this. Bring it up and ask them to give you the Islamic perspective.
Tip 2 - Remember your accountability to Allah
In America and some other countries, you're fully responsible for your actions when you turn 18. In Islam, you're fully accountable as soon as you understand these things. So that means that from that point onwards, you cannot assume looking at this stuff is no big deal. Your eyes will testify about what you looked at on the Day of Judgment. Remember that Allah is always watching. He is Most Just and Merciful, and He rewards us for the good and punishes us for the bad we do.
Tip 3 - Become conscious of the Haram
Too often, it's easy to dismiss that billboard with the spandex-and-bikini-top-clad blonde girl advertising gum, or the guy in tight leather pants and no shirt advertising perfume. When you see it, remember the Islamic perspective, your accountability to Allah, and lower your gaze. Do the same for television and the internet. If you keep doing this, insha-Allah, it'll become a habit, and eventually an automatic reaction.
Tip 4 - If feeling overwhelmed, remember Allah
In situations where you feel overwhelmed and can't get yourself to switch the channel, close the browser window or turn your eyes away from the billboard, ask Allah's help. You don't necessarily need any heavy duty, long Du'as. "La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah" (there is no power or ability except with Allah) is short, simple, and reminds you who is really in control and can help you out of this.
Tip 5 - Seek refuge in Allah from Shaytan
Shaytan lured you into this mess. Seeking refuge in Allah (saying awthu billahi minash Shaytan ir rajeem), will help you resist him and his whisperings to continue looking at the material.
Tip 6 - Get up and leave
If you feel unable to control looking at the screen or the magazine, leave the situation. Get out of the living room, your bedroom where the internet is, or where you've been reading the magazine. Take a walk. Just do something to physically get out of the situation.
Tip 7 - Avoid those involved in pornography
If one of your friends is into pornographic magazines, websites, dirty jokes etc. either help him or her change through gentle and sincere advice, or abandon frequent contact with them. Their compulsion will affect you, so it's best to stay as far away as possible, by remembering the danger to yourself, your Deen, and your relationship with Allah.
Tip 8 - Stay away from places where it's found
Sometimes it's on a billboard on a highway and you can't miss it. But often times, you'll notice certain parts of your city (the seedier ones) tend to be filled with this kind of material (where there are usually strip joints, for example). Avoid these places as much as you can. If it's on your way to school, try to change your route. Also, in summer, stay away from the beach.
Tip 9 - Surf or watch TV when others are around
The temptation to sneak a look at dirty pictures or that bikini-clad babe is heightened when you're alone in your room watching television or surfing the internet. Try to avoid late night TV and internet surfing. Instead, watch or surf when others are around so you can resist the urge to sneak a peek, thinking no one's watching (and remember Allah is always watching). It is a good idea not to have TV or computer in the bedroom anyway. Living room or study room are better place for this stuff.
Tip 10 - Remember your example
If you have younger brothers and sisters, think of the bad example you're setting for them. What message will they get if they barge into your room and catch you watching Baywatch or flipping through Playboy.
Tip 11 - For brothers, remember your mom and sister
Disgusting right? Exactly. No one in his right mind would look at his mom or sister the way many of us look at the Baywatch babes or the girls on the internet or in magazines. Remember mom and your sister, and that should sicken you enough to stop, insha-Allah.
Tip 12 - Have someone watch over you
If you really feel you're becoming addicted to this kind of material, try to watch TV, surf the internet with someone else. You don't have to tell them why you're doing this, but this method can perhaps keep you in check and help you avoid looking at pornography or other similar material. After all, Shaytan tempts us most easily when we're alone. Sitting in the company of a family member or good Muslim friend will insha-Allah, help.
Tip 13 - Fast
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) advised us to fast to cool passions. This should be a method we use to handle the desire aroused by pornography and similar material.
Tip 14 - Do Tawba and return to Allah
If you do end up watching the bad stuff, repent to Allah. Seek His forgiveness, reaffirm your faith in Him, and do good deed to compensate for that sin. He is All-Forgiven as long as you are sincere.
Tip 15 - Repent again and fine yourself
If you lapse, do tawba again. Allah is All-Forgiving as long as we mean it. But then you need to discipline yourself by promising to yourself that if I did it again, I will pay this much in charity or fast for a day.
The message is that don't give up on yourself. Keep trying. Struggle is life. Shaytan could be creative. And with the help of Allah, you will be the winner insha-Allah.
It's hard, especially when you're a teenager and bombarded with images of sexuality: that hot-looking scantily clad guy or gal in the magazine, grinning at you and luring you; or the persistent emphasis on sex in the movies (even Toy Story!); or the pervasive links to pornography and ad banners that pop up while you may simply be checking your e-mail or researching something for school. How does a young Muslim protect him or herself from all of this? Below are some tips that can help:
Tip 1 - Know what is Halal and what's not
We may think only hard core pornography is Islamically unacceptable. This is not true. Improperly dressed men and women, sexual situations, foreplay, kissing, touching, dirty jokes: none of these are Islamically acceptable. Talk to a trusted Muslim friend, family member of the same gender or an Imam about this. Bring it up and ask them to give you the Islamic perspective.
Tip 2 - Remember your accountability to Allah
In America and some other countries, you're fully responsible for your actions when you turn 18. In Islam, you're fully accountable as soon as you understand these things. So that means that from that point onwards, you cannot assume looking at this stuff is no big deal. Your eyes will testify about what you looked at on the Day of Judgment. Remember that Allah is always watching. He is Most Just and Merciful, and He rewards us for the good and punishes us for the bad we do.
Tip 3 - Become conscious of the Haram
Too often, it's easy to dismiss that billboard with the spandex-and-bikini-top-clad blonde girl advertising gum, or the guy in tight leather pants and no shirt advertising perfume. When you see it, remember the Islamic perspective, your accountability to Allah, and lower your gaze. Do the same for television and the internet. If you keep doing this, insha-Allah, it'll become a habit, and eventually an automatic reaction.
Tip 4 - If feeling overwhelmed, remember Allah
In situations where you feel overwhelmed and can't get yourself to switch the channel, close the browser window or turn your eyes away from the billboard, ask Allah's help. You don't necessarily need any heavy duty, long Du'as. "La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah" (there is no power or ability except with Allah) is short, simple, and reminds you who is really in control and can help you out of this.
Tip 5 - Seek refuge in Allah from Shaytan
Shaytan lured you into this mess. Seeking refuge in Allah (saying awthu billahi minash Shaytan ir rajeem), will help you resist him and his whisperings to continue looking at the material.
Tip 6 - Get up and leave
If you feel unable to control looking at the screen or the magazine, leave the situation. Get out of the living room, your bedroom where the internet is, or where you've been reading the magazine. Take a walk. Just do something to physically get out of the situation.
Tip 7 - Avoid those involved in pornography
If one of your friends is into pornographic magazines, websites, dirty jokes etc. either help him or her change through gentle and sincere advice, or abandon frequent contact with them. Their compulsion will affect you, so it's best to stay as far away as possible, by remembering the danger to yourself, your Deen, and your relationship with Allah.
Tip 8 - Stay away from places where it's found
Sometimes it's on a billboard on a highway and you can't miss it. But often times, you'll notice certain parts of your city (the seedier ones) tend to be filled with this kind of material (where there are usually strip joints, for example). Avoid these places as much as you can. If it's on your way to school, try to change your route. Also, in summer, stay away from the beach.
Tip 9 - Surf or watch TV when others are around
The temptation to sneak a look at dirty pictures or that bikini-clad babe is heightened when you're alone in your room watching television or surfing the internet. Try to avoid late night TV and internet surfing. Instead, watch or surf when others are around so you can resist the urge to sneak a peek, thinking no one's watching (and remember Allah is always watching). It is a good idea not to have TV or computer in the bedroom anyway. Living room or study room are better place for this stuff.
Tip 10 - Remember your example
If you have younger brothers and sisters, think of the bad example you're setting for them. What message will they get if they barge into your room and catch you watching Baywatch or flipping through Playboy.
Tip 11 - For brothers, remember your mom and sister
Disgusting right? Exactly. No one in his right mind would look at his mom or sister the way many of us look at the Baywatch babes or the girls on the internet or in magazines. Remember mom and your sister, and that should sicken you enough to stop, insha-Allah.
Tip 12 - Have someone watch over you
If you really feel you're becoming addicted to this kind of material, try to watch TV, surf the internet with someone else. You don't have to tell them why you're doing this, but this method can perhaps keep you in check and help you avoid looking at pornography or other similar material. After all, Shaytan tempts us most easily when we're alone. Sitting in the company of a family member or good Muslim friend will insha-Allah, help.
Tip 13 - Fast
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) advised us to fast to cool passions. This should be a method we use to handle the desire aroused by pornography and similar material.
Tip 14 - Do Tawba and return to Allah
If you do end up watching the bad stuff, repent to Allah. Seek His forgiveness, reaffirm your faith in Him, and do good deed to compensate for that sin. He is All-Forgiven as long as you are sincere.
Tip 15 - Repent again and fine yourself
If you lapse, do tawba again. Allah is All-Forgiving as long as we mean it. But then you need to discipline yourself by promising to yourself that if I did it again, I will pay this much in charity or fast for a day.
The message is that don't give up on yourself. Keep trying. Struggle is life. Shaytan could be creative. And with the help of Allah, you will be the winner insha-Allah.
Thursday, August 12, 2004
The best among you
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "Shall I tell you who are the best among you? The best of you are those who when seen are a means of Allah being brought to mind."
[Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 1302]
Spend righteously and teach wisdom
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "There are two kinds of people worth envying: someone whom Allah has made rich and who spends his money righteously, and someone whom Allah has given wisdom and who acts according to it and teaches it to others."
[Sahih Al-Bukhari, Volume 9, Hadith 255]
Thank people
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "He who does not thank people does not thank Allah."
[Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 897]
Teaching by example
Narrated Abu Qatadah - "We were sitting in the masjid when the Prophet Muhammad came upon us carrying his great granddaughter. She was a child and he was carrying her on his shoulder. The Prophet led the people in prayer while she was on his shoulder. When he bowed in prayer, he put her down and picked her up when he got up. He kept on doing this until he finished his prayer."
[Sunan of Abu Dawood, Hadith 353]
Comments on the hadith: "The purpose behind the action of the Prophet (salallahu alaihi wasallam) carrying his great granddaughter in the prayer was to set an example for those who considered having daughters and carrying them around as something bad or shameful. The Prophet....acted differently from them and carried a girl on his neck in the prayer....Making something clear by example is much more effective than a mere precept."
[Fiqh-us-Sunnah, Volume 2, Number 84]
Acts of kindness
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "Acts of kindness protect one from ruin wrought by evil."
[Fiqh-us-Sunnah, Volume 3, Number 97B]
The Prophet (salallahu alaihi wasallam) also said, "Allah is Kind and He loves kindness. Kindness is not to be found in anything but that it adds to its beauty."
[Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1186 and 1187]
Injustice
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "If a man suffers injustice and endures it patiently, Allah will grant him strength."
[Fiqh-us-Sunnah, Volume 3, Number 3]
Remember Allah
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "When any group of people remembers Allah, angels surround them and mercy covers them, tranquility descends upon them, and Allah mentions them to those who are with Him."
[Fiqh-us-Sunnah, Volume 4, Number 102]
"Without doubt, it is the remembrance of Allah that brings tranquility to the heart."
[Holy Qur'an, 13:28]
Visit the sick
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "Heaven calls out to anyone who visits a sick person: 'You are good and your path is good. May you enter your residence in Paradise.'"
[Fiqh-us-Sunnah, Volume 4, Number 3A]
The golden rule
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "Do you know who will go first on the Day of Resurrection to the shade of Allah? Those who when given what is right accept it, when asked for something give freely and who judge in favour of others as they do for themselves."
[Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 1042]
Allah loves you
A man once came to the Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) with a sheet of cloth and something in his hand. The man said, "I saw a group of trees and heard the sound of young birds. I took them and put them in my garment. Their mother then came and began to hover around my head. I showed (the chicks) to her and she fell on them. I wrapped them (all) with my garment. They are now with me." The Prophet (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said to his companions, "Are you surprised at the affection of the mother for her young? ... Allah is more affectionate to His servants than a mother to her young ones. Take (the chicks) back and put them where you found them."
[Sunan of Abu Dawood, Hadith 1359]
A friendly word
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) told his companions, "Save yourselves from (Hell) even if with half of a date (given in charity), and if that is not available then (save yourselves) by saying a friendly word."
[Sahih Al-Bukhari, Volume 8, Hadith 52]
A place in Paradise
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "Whoever builds a masjid, seeking Allah's pleasure, Allah will build for him a similar place in Paradise."
[Sahih Al-Bukhari, Volume 1, Hadith 441]
Avoid anger
A man once said to the Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam), "Teach me some words that I can live by. Do not make them too much for me, lest I forget." The Prophet replied, "Do not become angry."
[Al-Muwatta, Volume 47, Hadith 11]
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "Shall I tell you who are the best among you? The best of you are those who when seen are a means of Allah being brought to mind."
[Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 1302]
Spend righteously and teach wisdom
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "There are two kinds of people worth envying: someone whom Allah has made rich and who spends his money righteously, and someone whom Allah has given wisdom and who acts according to it and teaches it to others."
[Sahih Al-Bukhari, Volume 9, Hadith 255]
Thank people
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "He who does not thank people does not thank Allah."
[Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 897]
Teaching by example
Narrated Abu Qatadah - "We were sitting in the masjid when the Prophet Muhammad came upon us carrying his great granddaughter. She was a child and he was carrying her on his shoulder. The Prophet led the people in prayer while she was on his shoulder. When he bowed in prayer, he put her down and picked her up when he got up. He kept on doing this until he finished his prayer."
[Sunan of Abu Dawood, Hadith 353]
Comments on the hadith: "The purpose behind the action of the Prophet (salallahu alaihi wasallam) carrying his great granddaughter in the prayer was to set an example for those who considered having daughters and carrying them around as something bad or shameful. The Prophet....acted differently from them and carried a girl on his neck in the prayer....Making something clear by example is much more effective than a mere precept."
[Fiqh-us-Sunnah, Volume 2, Number 84]
Acts of kindness
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "Acts of kindness protect one from ruin wrought by evil."
[Fiqh-us-Sunnah, Volume 3, Number 97B]
The Prophet (salallahu alaihi wasallam) also said, "Allah is Kind and He loves kindness. Kindness is not to be found in anything but that it adds to its beauty."
[Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1186 and 1187]
Injustice
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "If a man suffers injustice and endures it patiently, Allah will grant him strength."
[Fiqh-us-Sunnah, Volume 3, Number 3]
Remember Allah
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "When any group of people remembers Allah, angels surround them and mercy covers them, tranquility descends upon them, and Allah mentions them to those who are with Him."
[Fiqh-us-Sunnah, Volume 4, Number 102]
"Without doubt, it is the remembrance of Allah that brings tranquility to the heart."
[Holy Qur'an, 13:28]
Visit the sick
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "Heaven calls out to anyone who visits a sick person: 'You are good and your path is good. May you enter your residence in Paradise.'"
[Fiqh-us-Sunnah, Volume 4, Number 3A]
The golden rule
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "Do you know who will go first on the Day of Resurrection to the shade of Allah? Those who when given what is right accept it, when asked for something give freely and who judge in favour of others as they do for themselves."
[Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 1042]
Allah loves you
A man once came to the Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) with a sheet of cloth and something in his hand. The man said, "I saw a group of trees and heard the sound of young birds. I took them and put them in my garment. Their mother then came and began to hover around my head. I showed (the chicks) to her and she fell on them. I wrapped them (all) with my garment. They are now with me." The Prophet (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said to his companions, "Are you surprised at the affection of the mother for her young? ... Allah is more affectionate to His servants than a mother to her young ones. Take (the chicks) back and put them where you found them."
[Sunan of Abu Dawood, Hadith 1359]
A friendly word
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) told his companions, "Save yourselves from (Hell) even if with half of a date (given in charity), and if that is not available then (save yourselves) by saying a friendly word."
[Sahih Al-Bukhari, Volume 8, Hadith 52]
A place in Paradise
The Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "Whoever builds a masjid, seeking Allah's pleasure, Allah will build for him a similar place in Paradise."
[Sahih Al-Bukhari, Volume 1, Hadith 441]
Avoid anger
A man once said to the Prophet Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam), "Teach me some words that I can live by. Do not make them too much for me, lest I forget." The Prophet replied, "Do not become angry."
[Al-Muwatta, Volume 47, Hadith 11]
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