Five Pillars of Islam (Iman)

 

  Five Pillars of Islam  :   

Righteousness is not (merely) that you turn your faces to the East and the West; but righteousness is that one believes in Allah and the Last Day and the angels and the Book and the Prophets, and gives wealth, despite (his) love for it, to relatives, and to orphans, the helpless, the wayfarer, and to those who ask, and (spends) in (freeing) slaves and observes the Salat (prayers) and pays Zakat-and (the act of) those who fulfill their covenant when they enter into a covenant, and, of course, those who are patient in hardship and suffering and when in battle! Those are the ones who are truthful, and those are the God-fearing.(Qur’an 2:177)

Narrated Ibn Umar (R.A) Allah's Messenger (P.B.U.H)  said: Islam is based on (the following) five (principles):

1. To testify that La ilaha illallah wa anna Muhammad-ar-Rasul Allah (none has the right to be worshipped but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah).

2.Iqamat-as-Salat [to perform the (compulsory congregational) Salat (prayers)].")

3. To pay Zakat (obligatory charity)

4. To perform hajj. (i.e. pilgrimage to Makkah).

5. To observe Saum [fasts (according to Islamic teachings)] during the month of Ramadan. (Sahih Bukhari : 8)

 

It was narrated from Abu Hurairah that a Bedouin came to the Messenger of Allah and said: "O Messenger of Allah, tell me of a

deed which, if I do it, I will enter Paradise." He said: "Worship Allah and do not associate anything with Him, establish the prescribed Salat, pay the obligatory Zakat and observe fast (in the month of) Ramadan." He said: "By the One in Whose Hand is my soul! I shall never do any more than that or any less."

When he turned to leave, the Prophet said: "Whoever would like to see a man from the people of Paradise, let him look at this man."(sahih Muslim : 107)

 

The Five Pillars of Islam

1-Shahadah:

The confession of faith is the fundamental expression of Islamic faith and the core of all Islamic law; it is very simple: "There is no God but God and Muhammad is the messenger of God" (la illaha illa 'lah Muhammadun rasul 'llah). The shahadah is the first thing spoken to a newborn and the last thing whispered into ears of the dead.

 Your god is one God: There is no god but He, the All-Merciful, the Very-Merciful. (Qur’an 2:163)

Surely, I AM ALLAH. There is no god but Myself, so worship Me, and establish Salah for My remembrance. (Qur’an 20:14)

He prays to someone, instead of Allah, who can neither harm him nor benefit him. That is the error that takes him too far from the right path. (Qur’an 22:12)

Say, “The truth is that Allah is One. Allah is Besought of all, needing none. He neither begot anyone, nor was he begotten. And equal to Him has never been any one. (Qur’an 112:1-4)

And We sent no Messenger before you except that We revealed to him: There is none worthy of worship except Me, so worship Me. (Qur’an 21:25)

The believers are only those whose hearts tremble with fear whenever Allah is mentioned. And when His verses are recited to them, these increase their faith; and in their Rabb (Sustainer) they vest their trust. (Qur’an 8:2)

As for those who believe, and do good deeds, they are the people of  Paradise -there they will live forever (Qur’an 2:82)

Surely those who believed and did righteous deeds, theirs are the Gardens of Firdaus (paradise) as entertainment (Qur’an 18:107)

do not lose hope in the mercy of Allah. In fact, only the infidels lose hope in Allah’s mercy.” (Qur’an 12:87)

They oblige you that they have accepted Islam, (as if it was a favour shown to you). Say, “Do not oblige me for your accepting Islam. Rather, Allah makes you obliged for His having guided you to the Faith, if you are truthful. (Qur’an 49:17)

Narrated Abu Sa'id Al-Khudri (R.A) The Prophet said, "When the people of Paradise will enter Paradise and the people of Hell will go to Hell, Allah will order those who have had faith equal to the weight of a grain of mustard seed to be taken out from Hell. So they will be taken out but (by then) they will be blackened (charred). Then they will be put in the river of hayat (life) (the narrator is in doubt as to which is the right word), and they will revive like a grain that grows near the bank of a flood channel. Don't you see that it comes out yellow and twisted?" Wuhaib stated: While narrating us 'Amr (R.A) used the word 'hayat (life). Moreover he said, "...goodness equal to the weight of a grain of mustard seed (Sahih Bukhari : 22)

Narrated Anas The Prophet said, "Whoever possesses the following three qualities will have the sweetness (delight) of faith:

1. The one to whom Allah and His Messenger (Muhammad) become dearer than anything else.

2. Who loves a person and he loves him  only for Allah's sake.

3. Who hates to revert to atheism (disbelief) as he hates to be thrown into the fire." (Sahih Bukhari : 16)

Whoever hates to revert to Kufr (atheism or disbelief) as he hates to be thrown in fire, is a part of faith.

Narrated Anas The Prophet said, "Whoever possesses the following three qualities will taste the sweetness of faith:

1. The one to whom Allah (SWT) and His Messenger Muhammad become dearer than anything else.

2. Who loves a person and he loves him only for Allah's sake.

3. Who hates to revert to disbelief (atheism) after Allah (SWT) has brought him out (saved him) from it, as he hates to be thrown in fire." (Sahih Bukhari : 21)

 2- Salat ( prayer)

 Islam enjoins upon the believer five prayers every day. These ritual prayers must be performed in the direction of Mecca and involve first standing, inclining, prostrating oneself, and sitting. The call to prayer is sounded by the muezzin (Muslim crier) from a tower (minaret) within the mosque. The prayers are read from the Qur'an and must be chanted from memory in Arabiyya, or the classical Arabic of the Qur'an . It is not allowed to either have a book in one's hand or to chant the Quranic prayers in another language. Personal prayers, called du'a in Arabic, can be made in one's own language.

Verily Salat restrains (oneself) from immorality and all that is forbidden. (Qur’an 29: 45)

Surely those who believe and do good deeds, and establish Salat (prayer) and pay Zakah will have their reward with their Lord, and there is no fear for them, nor shall they grieve. (Qur’an 2: 277)

Recite (O Prophet) what is revealed to you of the Book, and establish Salat “ Surely Salat restrains one from shameful and evil acts. Indeed remembrance of Allah is the greatest of all things. Allah knows what you do. (Qur’an 29:45)

O you who believe, seek help through patience and prayer. Surely, Allah is with those who are patient. (Qur’an 2:153)

O you who believe, respond to Allah and the Messenger when He calls you to what gives you life, and be sure that Allah intervenes between man and his heart, and that to Him you shall be gathered (Qur’an 8:24)

Surely, I AM ALLAH. There is no god but Myself, so worship Me, and establish Salah for My remembrance. (Qur’an 20:14)

O you who believe, when you rise for Salah, (prayer) wash your faces and your hands up to the elbows, and make wash (wiping by hands) of your heads and (wash) your feet up to the ankles. If you are in a state of major impurity, cleanse yourselves well (by taking bath). If you are sick, or on a journey, or if one of you has come after relieving himself, or you have had sexual contact with women, and you find no water, then, go for some clean dust and wipe your faces and hands with it. Allah does not like to impose a problem on you; He, rather likes to cleanse you and to complete

His favour upon you, so that you may be grateful. (Qur’an 5:6)

Jabir Ibn 'Abdullah (R A) narrates that Muhammed (PBUH) said: The key to Paradise is Salat and the key to Salat is Wudu. (Musnad Ahmad)

Abu Hurairah (R A) narrates that Muhammed (PBUH) said: The five times Salat and the prayer of Friday to Friday, and the fasting of Ramadan to Ramadan, are atonements for sins that have been committed between them, provided the sinner avoids major sins. (Sahih Muslim)

Anas (R A) narrates that Muhammed (PBUH)  said: The comfort and delight of my eyes has been placed in Salat. (Nasai)

Ali (R A) narrates that the last words of Muhammed (PBUH)  were: As-Salat, as-Salat* fear Allah about those whom your right hand possesses (your slaves and subordinates). (Abu Dawud)

Note: * Vigilantly observe, guard and establish Salat.

3- Saum (Fast) Ramadan :

Narrated Abu Hurairah Allah's Messenge said, "Whoever observes Saum (fasts) during the month of Ramadan cut of sincere faith, and hoping to attain Allah's Rewards, then all his past sins will he forgiven. (Sahih Bukhari : 38)

It was narrated from Abu Hurairah [may Allah be pleased with him] that the Messenger of Allah said: "When Ramadân comes, the gates of Paradise are opened and the gates of the Fire are closed, and the devils are fettered." (Sahih Muslim : 2495)

Abu Hurairah [may Allah be pleased with them] said: "I heard the Messenger of Allah it say: 'Allah, the Mighty and Sublime, says: "Every deed of the son of Adam is for him, except fasting. It is for Me, and I shall reward for it." By the One in Whose Hand is the soul of Muhammad, the smell of the mouth of the fasting person is better to Allah than the fragrance of musk." (Sahih Muslim : 2704)

It was narrated that Abu Sa'eed Al-Ithudri [may Allah be pleased with them] said: "I heard the Messenger of Allah it say: 'Whoever fasts for one day in the cause of Allah, Allah will remove his face (the distance of) seventy autumns' from the Fire." (Sahih Muslim : 2713)

During the month of Ramadan, all believers must refrain from food, drink, and sexual relationships from dawn until dusk. The month of Ramadan occurs at different times of the year (the Muslim calendar is a lunar rather than a solar calendar), so the severity of the fast varies. The fast is intended to purify the believer as a renunciation of the world.

4-Zakat (Charity) :

And they were commanded not, but that they should worship Allah, and worship none but Him Alone (abstaining from ascribing

partners to Him) and to perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as- salat) and to give Zakat, and that is the right religion." (Qur’an 98 :5)

It was narrated that Abu Hurairah said: "The Messenger of Allah

said: 'There is no day on which people wake up, but two Angels come down and one of them says: O Allah, give more to the one who spends, and the other says: O Allah, send destruction upon the one who withholds." (Sahih Muslim : 2336)

It was narrated from Hudhaifah that the Prophet said: "Every good deed is a charity." (Sahih Muslim : 2328)

It was narrated from Abu Hurairah that the Prophet said: "Allah, may He be blessed and exalted, says: 'O son of Adam, spend, and I shall spend on you." And he said: "The right Hand of Allah is full and overflowing, and nothing of that diminishes due to the night and the day."(Sahih Muslim : 2308)

It was narrated that Abu Hurairah said: "The Messenger of Allah said: 'A Dinar that you spend in the cause of Allah, a Dinar that you spend to free a slave, a Dinar that you give in charity to a needy person, and a Dinar that you spend on your family – the greatest of them in reward, is the one that you spend on your family." (Sahih Muslim : 2311)

 It was narrated from Abu Mas'ud Al Badri that the Prophet said: "If a Muslim spends on his family, seeking reward for that with Allah, then it will be charity on his part." (Sahih Muslim : 2322)

The Qur'an does not vilify the accumulation of wealth in fact, Islam manifestly understands the material world as created for the enjoyment of humanity. However, one's duties to God involve distributing one's wealth to the less fortunate. This is instituted in Islamic law, the Shari'ah, which constrains everyone to give the equivalent of 2 ½ (two & half) percent of their wealth to the poor in the form of taxes (if one's wealth is in money). Islamic society, it is not unfair to assert, was the first welfare state in existence! Just as the fast of Ramadan purifies the believer through renouncing the world, the zakat purifies the believer by encouraging a charitable disposition and a lack of attachment to worldly belongings.

5-Hajj (The pilgrimage to Mecca):

Every believer must once in their life make a pilgrimage to the Ka'bah, the sacred shrine of Islam in Mecca. By recreating many of the events of the life of Abraham and Ishmael who are, in Islamic tradition, the founders of the Ka'bah, one injects oneself into the core of Islamic history and re-evaluates one's life and one's society in the perspective of that history.

The first house set up for the people is surely the one in Makkah having blessings and guidance for all the worlds.( Qur’an 3:96)

and announce among people about (the obligation of) Hajj, so that they should come to you on foot, and on every camel turned lean, traveling through every distant hilly pathway, ( Qur’an 22:27)

Have they not, then, traveled on earth so that they should have had hearts to understand with, or ears to listen with? The fact is that it is not the eyes that turn blind, but what turns blind is the hearts contained in the chests.(Qur’an 22:46)

 

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Modesty in Islam (Haya)

 O children of ‘Adam, We have sent down to you the dress that covers your shame and provides adornment. As for the dress of Taqwa (piety), that is the best. That is one of the signs of Allah, so that they may learn a lesson. (Qur’an 7:26)

From this verse of Holy Quran, we came to know that dressing with modesty is very important for all of us. Allah (SWT) has allowed people to wear nice clothes and put on a good appearance, as doing so is one aspect of remembering Allah’s blessings upon them. Holy Quran states about wearing clothes in these words:

Say, “Who has prohibited the adornment Allah has brought forth for His servants, and the wholesome things of sustenance?” Say, “They are for the believers during this worldly life (though shared by others), while they are purely for them on the day of Resurrection. This is how We elaborate the verses for people who understand.” (Qur’an 7:30)

Narrated Abu Hurairah : The Prophet (PBUH) said, "Faith (Belief) consists of more than sixty sub-divisions or branches (i.e. parts). And Al Haya (this term Haya covers a large number of concepts which are to be taken together; amongst them are selfrespect,modesty, bashfulness, and honour etc.) is a part of faith."(Sahih Bukhari :9)

The status of women in Islam is often the target of attacks in the secular media. The ‘hijab’ or the Islamic dress is cited by many as an example of the ‘subjugation’ of women under Islamic law. Before we analyze the reasoning behind the religiously mandated ‘hijab’, let us first study the status of women in societies before the advent of Islam

Islam uplifted women and gave them equality and expects them to maintain their status.

Islam uplifted the status of women and granted them their just rights 1400 years ago. Islam expects women to maintain their status.

Hijab for men

People usually only discuss ‘hijab’ in the context of women. However, in the Glorious Qur’an, Allah (swt) first mentions ‘hijab’ for men before ‘hijab’ for the women. The Qur’an mentions in Surah Noor:

“Say to the believing men that they must lower their gaze and guard their modesty: that will make for greater purity for them: and Allah is well acquainted with all that they do.” (Qur’an 24:30)

** Read Unlawful Sexual intercourse

The moment a man looks at a woman and if any brazen or unashamed thought comes to his mind, he should lower his gaze.

Hijab for women.

The next verse of Surah Noor, says:

“ And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what (must ordinarily) appear thereof; that they should draw veils over their bosoms and not display their beauty except to their husbands, their fathers, their husbands’ fathers, their sons...”(Qur’an 24:31)

 Six criteria for Hijab.

According to Qur’an and Sunnah there are basically six criteria for observing hijab:

1. Extent:

The first criterion is the extent of the body that should be covered. This is different for men and women. The extent of covering obligatory on the male is to cover the body at least from the navel to the knees. For women, the extent of covering obligatory is to cover the complete body except the face and the hands upto the wrist. If they wish to, they can cover even these

parts of the body. Some scholars of Islam insist that the face and the hands are part of the obligatory extent of ‘hijab’.

All the remaining five criteria are the same for men and women.

2. The clothes worn should be loose and should not reveal the figure.

3. The clothes worn should not be transparent such that one can see through them.

4. The clothes worn should not be so glamorous as to attract the opposite sex.

5. The clothes worn should not resemble that of the opposite sex.

6. The clothes worn should not resemble that of the unbelievers i.e. they should not wear clothes that are specifically identities or symbols of the unbelievers’ religions.

Hijab includes conduct and behaviour among other things

Complete ‘hijab’, besides the six criteria of clothing, also includes the moral conduct, behaviour, attitude and intention of the individual. A person only fulfilling the criteria of ‘hijab’ of the clothes is observing ‘hijab’ in a limited sense. ‘Hijab’ of the clothes should be accompanied by ‘hijab’ of the eyes, ‘hijab’ of the heart, ‘hijab’ of thought and ‘hijab’ of intention. It also includes the way a person walks, the way a person talks, the way he behaves, etc.

Hijab prevents molestation

The reason why Hijab is prescribed for women is mentioned in the Qur’an in the following verses of Surah Al-Ahzab:

“O Prophet! Tell thy wives and daughters, and the believing women that they should cast their outer garments over their persons (when abroad); that is most convenient, that they should be known (as such) and not molested. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”

(Qur’an 33:59)

The Qur’an says that Hijab has been prescribed for the women so that they are recognized as modest women and this will also prevent them from being molested.

Example of twin sisters

Suppose two sisters who are twins, and who are equally beautiful, walk down the street. One of them is attired in the Islamic hijab i.e. the complete body is covered, except for the face and the hands up to the wrists. The other sister is wearing western clothes, a mini skirt or shorts. Just around the corner there is a hooligan or ruffian who is waiting for a catch, to tease a girl. Whom will he tease? The girl wearing the Islamic Hijab or the girl wearing the skirt or the mini? Naturally he will tease the girl wearing the skirt or the mini. Such dresses are an indirect invitation to the opposite sex for teasing and molestation. The Qur’an rightly says that hijab prevents women from being molested.

Capital punishment for the rapists

Under the Islamic shariah, a man convicted of having raped a woman, is given capital punishment. Many are astonished at this ‘harsh’ sentence. Some even say that Islam is a ruthless, barbaric religion! I have asked a simple question to hundreds of non-Muslim men. Suppose, God forbid, someone rapes your wife, your mother or your sister. You are made the judge and the rapist is brought in front of you. What punishment would you give him? All of them said they would put him to death. Some went to the extent of saying they would torture him to death. To them I ask, if someone rapes your wife or your mother you want to put him to death. But if the same crime is committed on somebody else’s wife or daughter you say capital punishment is barbaric. Why should there be double standards?

Western society falsely claims to have uplifted women

Western talk of women’s liberalization is nothing but a disguised form of exploitation of her body, degradation of her soul, and deprivation of her honour. Western society claims to have ‘uplifted’ women. On the contrary it has actually degraded them to the status of concubines, mistresses and society butterflies who are mere tools in the hands of pleasure seekers and sex marketeers, hidden behind the colourful screen of ‘art’ and ‘culture’.

Top five countries of the highest rates of rape

1. South Africa

With an estimated of 500,000 rape cases every year, the country has one of the highest rate of Rape Crimes in the world. It is estimated that more than 40% of South African women will be raped in their lifetime. The Medical Research Council has estimated that only 1 in 9 rapes are reported. Thus the actual numbers of rapes is much higher than numbers recorded by the police.

2. Sweden

Sweden now has the second highest number of rapes in the world, after South Africa, which at 53.2 per 100,000. Statistics now suggest that 1 out of every 4 Swedish women comes out to be the victim of rape.

3. USA

According to George Mason University, Worldwide Sexual Assault Statistics, 1 in 3 American women will be sexually abused during their lifetime. About 19.3% of women and 2% of men have been raped at least once in their lives. Additionally, an estimated 43.9% of women and 23.4% of men experienced other forms of sexual violence during their lifetimes. Many victims of sexual abuse were victimized at a young age, about 79% were first raped before age 25, and 40% before age 18. (USA today).

4. England and Wales

According to a report entitled “An Overview of Sexual Offending in England and Wales”, released in 2013, by the Ministry of Justice (MoJ), Office for National Statistics (ONS) and Home Office; Approximately 85,000 victims of rape per year in England and Wales – 73,000 females and 12,000 males, equating to about 230 cases every day. The report stated that 1 in every 5 women has experienced some form of sexual violence since the age of 16.

5. India

According to the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB), crimes against women have increased by 7.5% since 2010. The number of reported rapes in India, a country of over 1.2 billion people, has gone up to 33,707 in 2013 from 24,923 in 2012. The majority of rape victims are between 18 years and 30 years. About one out of three victims is below 18, and one in ten rape victims is under 14. In India, a woman is being raped after every 20 minutes.

         Consider a scenario where the Islamic hijab is followed in world. Whenever a man looks at a woman and any brazen or unashamed thought comes to his mind, he lowers his gaze. Every woman wears the Islamic hijab, that is the complete body is covered except the face and the hands upto the wrist. After this if any man commits rape he is given capital punishment. I ask you, in such a scenario, will the rate of rape in America increase, will it remain the same, or will it decrease?

Implementation of Islamic Shariah will reduce the rate of rapes

Naturally as soon as Islamic Shariah is implemented positive results will be inevitable. If Islamic Shariah is implemented in any part of the world, whether it is America or Europe, society will breathe easier. Hijab does not degrade a woman but uplifts a woman and protects her modesty and chastity.

 

 

 

 

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The Day of Judgement

 

Certainly, the Hour is bound to come. There is no doubt in it, but most of the people do not believe. (Qur’an 40:59).

Each one of them is bound to come to Him on the Day of Judgment, all alone.(Qur’an 19:95).

On that day, you will be brought forward in a way that no secret of yours will remain secret. (Qur’an 69:18).

Read also The day of judgement 2

Ibn Mas'ud narrated that the Messenger of Allah said: "The feet of the son of Adam shall not move from before his Lord on the Day of Judgement, until he is asked about five things: About his life and what he did with it, about his youth and what he wore it out in, about his wealth and how he earned it, and spent it upon, and what he did with what he knew."( Tirmidhi 2416)

Whoever will come with the good deed will have (a reward) better than that, and such people will be immune on that day from any panic. (Qur’an 27:89).

They are waiting for nothing but for the Hour to come upon them suddenly, while they would not even imagine (it).

Friends, on that day, will become enemies to one another, except the God-fearing, .(Qur’an 43:66-67).

Abu Hurairah narrated that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: "Do you know who the bankrupt is?" They said: "O Messenger of Allah(PBUH)! The bankrupt among us is the one who has no Dirham nor property." the Messenger of Allah said: "The bankrupt in my Ummah is the one who comes with Salãt and fasting and Zakat on the Day of Judgement, but he comes having abused this one, falsely accusing that one, wrongfully consuming the wealth of this one, spilling the blood of that one, and beating this one. So he is seated, and this one is requited from his rewards, and that one from his rewards. If his rewards are exhausted before the sins that he committed are requited, then some of their sins will be taken and cast upon him, then he will be cast into the Fire."( Tirmidhi 2418)

They ask you about the Hour (i.e. the Doomsday), “When is it due to happen?” Say, “Its knowledge is only with my Lord. No one can unfold it except He at its time. It shall weigh heavy in the heavens and the earth. It shall not come upon you but suddenly.” They ask you as if you were aware of it. Say, “Its knowledge is only with Allah, but most of the people do not know.” (Qur’an 7:187).

They are waiting for nothing but for the Hour (of Doom) that it should come upon them suddenly. So, its signs have already come. Then, once it will come upon them, how would they have an opportunity to accept the advice (already) given to them? (Qur’an 47:18).

We shall place scales to do justice on the Day of Judgment. So no one shall be wronged in the least. Even if it (a deed) is to the measure of a mustard seed, We will bring it forth, and We are enough to take account. 

(Qur’an 21:47)

They shall not be grieved by the Biggest Panic, and the angels shall receive them (saying), “This is your day that you had been promised.

the Day when We roll up the sky like a scroll rolls up the writings. Just as We originated the first creation, so We shall bring it back again a promise (undertaken to be binding) on Us. We are sure to do it. (Qur’an 21:103-104).

Sulaim bin 'Amir narrated from Al-Miqdad, a Companion of the Messenger of Allah who said: "I heard the Messenger of Allah saying: 'On the Day of Judgement, the sun will be drawn near the servants, until it has come a mile or two (away)." Sulaim bin 'Arnir said: "I do not know if it is miles that refer to distance on the land, or Al-Mil! which is used to apply Kuhl for the eyes." He (the Prophet said): "The sun will melt them, until they will be in sweat according to their deeds. Among them one will be covered up to his ankles, and among them will be one who is covered up to his knees, and among them will be one who is covered up to his waist, and among them will be one who is bridled with it.' I saw the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) indicating with his hand toward his mouth, meaning that one would be bridled with it." (Tirmidhi   2421)

So, as for him whose book (of deeds) will be given to him in his right hand,

he will be called to account in an easy manner,

and he will go back to his people joyfully.

As for the one whose book (of deeds) will be given to him from his backside,

he will pray for death,

and will enter the blazing fire.

He had been joyful among his people (in the world).

He thought he would never revert (to Allah).

No! Indeed his Lord was watchful over him. (Qur’an 84:7-15).

Those who disbelieve and die as disbelievers, even an Earth-full of gold shall never be accepted from any of them, even if one were to offer it as ransom. They are the ones for whom there is a painful punishment, and for them there are no helpers. (Qur’an 3:91)

Ibn 'Abbas narrated that the Messenger of Allah said: "The people will be gathered on the Day of Resurrection bare-foot, naked and uncircumcised as they were created." Then he recited: "As We began the first creation, We shall repeat it: A promise binding upon Us. Truly We shall do it.  And the first of people to be clothed will be Ibrahim. Among my companions will be some men who are taken to the right and to the left. I will say: 'O My Lord! My companions!' It will be said: 'You do not know what they innovated after you, they continued to be apostates since you parted from them.' So I will say as the righteous worshipper said: If you punish them, they are your slaves, and if You forgive them, indeed You, only You are the Almighty, the All-Wise. (Tirmidhi 2423)

And (you will wonder) if you see the sinners hanging their heads before their Lord (and saying,) “Our Lord, we have now seen and heard, so send us back, and we will do righteous deeds. Surely, (now) we are believers.”

And if We had so willed, We would have led everybody to his right path (by force), but the word from Me had come to pass: “I will certainly fill the Hell (Jahannam) with jinn and human beings together.”

So, have a taste, because you had forgotten the meeting of this day of yours. We have forgotten you; and taste the eternal punishment for what you used to do.

Only those people believe in Our verses who, when they are reminded of them, fall in prostration and pronounce the purity and praise of their Lord, and who do not wax proud.

(Qur’an 32:12-15)

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Position of Parents in Islam

 

Your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him, and do good to parents. If any one of them or both of them reach old age, do not say to them: uff (a word or expression of anger or contempt) and do not scold them, and address them with respectful words,(Qur’an 17:23)
And We have enjoined upon man to do good to his parents. His mother carried him with difficulty and delivered him with difficulty. And his carrying and his weaning is (in) thirty months, until when he attains his maturity and reaches forty years, he says, “My Lord, grant me that I offer gratitude for the favour You have bestowed upon me and upon my parents, and that I do righteous deeds that You like. And set righteousness, for my sake, in my progeny. Of course, I repent to you, and truly I am one of those who submit to You.”(Qur’an 46:15)
We commanded man (to be good) in respect of his parents. His mother carried him (in her womb) despite weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years. (We said to man,) “Be grateful to Me, and to your parents. To Me is the ultimate return.(Qur’an 31:14)
“You shall not worship anyone other than Allah; and you shall do good to the parents, and to near of kin, and to orphans and the needy.(Qur’an 2:83)
 Our Lord, forgive me and my parents and all believers on the day when reckoning shall take place.”(Qur’an 14:41)
“My Lord, be merciful to them as they have brought me up in my childhood.”(Qur’an 17:24)
  Narrated Abü Hurairah A man came to Allah's Messenger (PBUH), and said, "O Allah's Messenger! Who is more entitled to be treated with the best companionship by me?" The Prophet ; said, "Your mother." The man said ,"Who is next?" The Prophet A said ,"Your mother." The man further said,"Who is next?" The Prophet (PBUH)  said, "Your mother." The man asked (for the fourth time), "Who is next?" The Prophet (PBUH) said, "Your father."(Sahih Bukhari 5971)
  Narrated 'Abdullah bin 'Amr: A man asked the Prophet , "Shall I participate in Jihãd?" The Prophet (PBUH) said, "Are your parents living?" The man said, "Yes." The Prophet  said, "Do Jihãd for their benefit.,(Sahih Bukhari 5972)
(Note  - Jihad is compulsory for the Muslim community. So a Muslim should take permission from his parents to go for it, but when an enemy of Islam attacks the Muslim rights or their country, then he does not need the permission of parents.)
 Narrated 'Abdullah bin 'Amr (RA) Allah's Messenger (PBUH) said, "It is one of the greatest sins that a man should curse his parents." It was asked (by the people), "O Allah's Messenger! How does a man curse his parents?" The Prophet ij said, "The man abuses the father of another man and the latter abuses the father of the former and abuses his mother."(Sahih Bukhari 5973)
 Narrated Asma': "My mother who was a Musjrikah (pagan, etc.), came with her father during the period of the peace pact between the Muslims and the Quraish infidels. I went to seek the advice of the Prophet saying, "My mother has arrived and she is hoping (for my favour)." The Prophet said, "Yes, be good to your mother."(Sahih Bukhari 5979)
If One or both of a person’s parents are  alive and he does not honor them and he dies let him perish in the fire of hell.The prophet (pbuh) said Ameen on this supplication by jibril(AS) (Tirmidhi 3545)
It was narrated from  Mu'iwiyah bin Jihimah As-Sulamthat Jshimah came to the Prophet and said: "O Messenger of Allih! I want to go out and fight , (in jihad) and I have come to ask  your advice." He said: "Do you have a mother?" He said: "Yes."  He said: "Then stay with her, for  Paradise is beneath her feet."(Sunan an Nasai 3106)
Abdullâh bin 'Amr bin A1-'As said: "A man came to the Prophet of Allah and said: 'I swear my allegiance to you, that I will migrate and engage in Jihâd, seeking reward from Allah.' He (pbuh) said: 'Are either of your parents alive?' He said: 'Yes, both of them.' He said: 'Are you seeking reward from Allah?' He said: 'Yes.' He said: 'Then go back to your parents and be a good companion to them." (Sahih Muslim 6507)
 It was narrated from Abü Hurairah that the Prophet said: "May his nose be rubbed in the dust, may his nose be rubbed in the dust, may his nose be rubbed in the dust." It was said: "Who, O Messenger of Allah?" He said: "The one whose parents, one or both of them, reach old age during his lifetime and he does not enter Paradise."(Sahih Muslim 6510)
It was narrated from 'Abdullâh bin 'Umar that the Prophet said: "The best act of Birr(Being dutiful and reverential to one's parents.) is for a man to uphold ties with the friends of his father." (Sahih Muslim 6514)

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FASTING IN ISLAM

 O you who believe, the fasts have been enjoined upon you as they were enjoined upon those before you, so that you may be God-fearing, (Qur'an 2:183) 

The month of Ramadan is the one in which the Qur’an was revealed as guidance for mankind, and as clear signs that show the right way and distinguish between right and wrong. So those of you who witness the month must fast in it. But the one who is sick, or is on a journey (should fast)  as much from other days (as he missed). Allah intends (to provide) ease for you and does not intend (to create) hardship for you. All this is so that you may complete the number (of fasts as prescribed) and proclaim the Takbir of Allah for having guided you, and (so) that you may be grateful. (Qur'an 2:185)

  Narrated Ibn 'Umar (R.A)The Prophet observed the Saum (fast) on the 10th of Muharram ('Ashura'), and ordered (Muslims) to observe Saum (fast) on that day, but when the fasting of the month of Ramadan was prescribed, the fasting of the 'Ashura' was abandoned. 'Abdullali did not use to observe fast on that day unless it coincided with his routine fasting by chance. (Sahih Bukhari 1892).

Narrated AbU Hurairah (R.A) Allah's Messenger said, "Saum (fasting) is a shield (or a screen or a shelter from the Hell-fire. So, the person observing Saum (fast) should avoid sexual relation with his wife and should not behave foolishly and impudently, and if somebody fights with him or abuses him, he should say to him twice, 'I am observing Saum (fast)." The Prophet Muhammad(p.b.u.h) added, "By Him in Whose Hands my soul is, the smell coming out from the mouth of a person observing saum (fast) is better with A1lah than the smell of musk. (Allah says about the fasting person), 'He has left his food, drink ad sexual desires for My sake. The Saum (tast) is for Me . So I will reward (the fasting person) for it and the reward of good deeds is multiplied ten times."(Sahih Bukhari 1894)

Narrated SahI (R.A) The Prophet (pbuh) said, "There is a gate in Paradise called Ar-Raiyan, and those who observe Saum (fasts) will enter through it on the Day of Resurrection and none except them will enter through it. It will be said, 'Where are those who used to observe Saum (fast)?' They will get up, and none except them will enter through it. After their entry the gate will be closed and nobody will enter through it."(Sahih Bukhari 1896)

Narrated Abti Hurairah (R.A) Allah's Messenger said, "When (the month of) Ramadan begins, the gates of Paradise are opened."(Sahih Bukhari 1898)

Narrated AbU Hurairah Allah's Messenger said, "When the month of Ramadan starts, the gates of the heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained."(Sahih Bukhari 1899)

 Narrated Abu Hurairah (R.A) The Prophet Muhammad(p.b.u.h) said, "Whoever established salat (prayer) on the night of Qadr with sincere faith and hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven; and whoever observes Saum (fasts) in the month of Ramadan with sincere faith and hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven."(Sahih Bukhari 1901)

Narrated Ibn 'Abbas (R.A) The Prophet was the most generous amongst the people, and he used to be more so in the month of Ramadan when Jibril (Gabriel) visited him, and JibrIl used to meet him on every night of Ramadan till the end of the month. The Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h) used to recite the Noble Qur'an to Jibril, and when Jibril met him, he used to be more generous than the fair wind [sent by Allah with glad tidings (rain) in readiness and haste to do charitable deeds.].(Sahih Bukhari 1902)

 Narrated AbU Hurairah  Allah's Messenger said, "Allah said, 'All the deeds of Adam's sons (people) are for them, except Saum (fasting) which is for Me, and I will give the reward for it.' Observing saum (fast) is a shield or protection (from the Hell-fire and from committing sins). If one of you is observing Saum (fast), he should avoid sexual relation with his wife and quarrelling, and if somebody should fight or quarrel with him, he should say, 'I am observing Saum (fast).' By Him in Whose Hands my soul is, the smell coming out from the mouth of a fasting person is better before Allah than the smell of musk. There are two pleasures for the person observing aum, one at the time of Iftãr (breaking his fast), and the other at the time when he will meet his Lord; then he will be pleased because of his saum (fasting) ."(Sahih Bukhari 1904)

Narrated 'Aishah (R.A) The Prophet  Muhammad (p.b.u.h)used to kiss and embrace (his wives) while he was observing .saum (fast), and he had more power to control his desires than any of you. Jabir bin Zaid said, "If a man gets a sexual discharge as a result of casting a look (at his wife) should complete his Saum (fast) ."(Sahih Bukhari 1927)

 Narrated Hishãm's father: 'Aishah said, "Allah's Messenger Muhammad (pbuh) used to kiss some of his wives while he was observing saum (fast) ," and then she smiled. (Sahih Bukhari 1928)

Narrated Abfl Bakr bin 'Abdur- Rahmãn: My father and I went to 'Aishah and she said, "I testify that Allah's Messenger ; at times used to get up in the morning in a state of Janaba from sexual intercourse, not from a wet dream and then he would observe Saum (fast) that day."(Sahih Bukhari 1931)

Narrated Abu Hurairah While we were sitting with the Prophet Muhammad  (pbuh) a man came and said, "O Allah's Messenger! I have been ruined." Allah's Messenger asked what was the matter with him. He replied, "I had sexual intercourse with my wife while I was observing Saum (fast)." Allah's Messenger  asked him, "Can you afford to manumit a slave?" He replied in the negative. Allah's Messenger ; asked him, "Can you observe Saum (fast) for two successive months?" He replied in the negative. The Prophet ; asked him, "Can you afford to feed sixty poor persons?" He replied in the negative. The Prophet ; kept silent and while we were in that state, a big basket full of dates was brought to the Prophet . He asked, "Where is the questioner?" He replied, "I (am here)." The Prophet  said (to him), "Take this (basket of dates) and give it in charity." The man said, "Should I give it to a person poorer than I? By Allah; there is no family between its (i.e., Al-Madina's) two mountains who are poorer than L" The Prophet smiled till his premolar teeth became visible and then said, "Feed your family with it."(Sahih Bukhari 1936)

Narrated 'Aishah  the wife of the Prophet h: Uamza bin 'Amr Al Aslami asked the Prophet  "Should I  observe Saum (fast) while travelling?" The . Prophet replied, "You may observe Saum (fast) if you wish, and you may not observe Saum (fast) if you wish." (Sahih Bukhari 1943)

 

 

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