Bismillah walHamdulillah...
A little yet meaningful story from Aysha....Jazakillah...
Every Friday afternoon, after the Juma prayers,
the Imam and his eleven year old son would go out into their town
and hand out "PATH TO PARADISE" and other Islamic literature.
This particular and fortunate Friday afternoon, as the time came
for the Imam and his son to go to the streets with their booklets,
it was very cold outside, as well as pouring rain.
The boy bundled up in his warmest and driest clothes and said,
'OK, dad, I'm ready!'His dad asked, 'Ready for what' 'Dad,
it's time we go out and distribute these Islamic books.'
Dad responds, 'Son, it's very cold outside and
it's pouring rain.'
The boy gives his dad a surprised look, asking, 'But Dad,
aren't people still going to hell, even though it's raining?'
Dad answers, 'Son, I am not going out in this weather.' Despondently,
the boy asks, 'Dad, can I go Please' His father hesitated for a moment
then said, 'Son, you can go. Here are the booklets. Be careful son.'
'Thanks, Dad!'
And with that, he was off and out into the rain. This eleven year old boy
walked the streets of the town going door to door and handing everybody
he met in the street a pamphlet or a booklet.
After two hours of walking in the rain, he was soaking, bone-chilled wet
and down to his VERY LAST BOOKLET.
He stopped on a corner and looked for someone to hand a booklet to,
but the streets were totally deserted. Then he turned toward
the first home he saw and started up the Side walk to the front door
and rang the door bell. He rang the bell, but nobody answered..
Finally, he turned to leave, but something stopped him. Again,
he turned to the door and rang the bell and knocked loudly on the door
with his fist. He waited, something holding him there on the front porch!
He rang again and this time the door slowly opened.
Standing in the doorway was a very sad-looking elderly lady.
She softly asked, 'What can I do for you, son?' With radiant eyes
and a smile that lit up her world, this little boy said, 'Ma'am,
I'm sorry if I disturbed you, but I just want to tell you
that ALLAH REALLY LOVES AND CARES FOR YOU and I came to give you
my very last booklet
which will tell you all about God, the real purpose of creation,
and how to achieve His pleasure.' With that, he handed her
his last booklet and turned to leave. She called to him as he
departed. 'Thank you, son! And God Bless You!'
Next week on Friday afternoon after Juma prayers, the Imam was giving
some lectures. As he concludes the lectures, he asked, '
Does anybody have questions or want to say anything?' Slowly,
in the back row among the ladies, an elderly lady's voice was heard
over the speaker.
'No one in this gathering knows me. I've never been here before.
You see, before last Friday I was not a Muslim, and thought
I could be. My husband died few years ago, leaving me totally alone
in this world.. Last Friday, being a particularly cold and rainy day,
I was contemplating suicide as I had no hope left.
So I took a rope and a chair and ascended the stairway into the attic of my home..
I fastened the rope securely to a rafter in the roof then stood
on the chair and fastened the other end of the rope around my neck.
Standing on that chair, so lonely and broken- hearted.
I was about to leap off, when suddenly the loud ringing of my doorbell
downstairs startled me.
I thought, I'll wait a minute, and whoever it is will go away.
I waited and waited, but the ringing doorbell seemed to get louder and
more insistent, and then the person ringing also started knocking loudly....
I thought to myself again, 'Who on earth could this be?
Nobody ever rings my bell or comes to see me.' I loosened the rope
from my neck and started for the front door, all the while the bell
rang louder and louder.
When I opened the door and looked I could hardly believe my eyes,
for there on my front porch was the most radiant and angelic little boy
I had ever seen in my life. His SMILE, oh, I could never describe
it to you! The words that came from his mouth caused my heart that
had long been dead TO LEAP TO LIFE as he exclaimed with a
cherub-like voice, 'Ma'am, I just came to tell you that:
ALLAH REALLY LOVES AND CARES FOR YOU!'
Then he gave me this booklet, Path To Paradise that I now hold in my hand.
As the little angel disappeared back out into the cold and rain,
I closed my door and read slowly every word of this book.
Then I went up to my attic to get my rope and chair.
You see? I am now a Happy Vicegerent of the One True God.
Since the address of your congregation was stamped on the back of
this booklet, I have come here to personally say THANK YOU to God's
little angel who came just in the nick of time and by so doing,
spared my soul from an eternity in hell.'
The shouts of TAKBIR.. ALLAH AKBAR.. rented the air.
Imam-Dad descended from the pulpit to the front row where
the little angel was seated....
He took his son in his arms and sobbed uncontrollably.
Probably no jama'at has had a more glorious moment, and
probably this universe has never seen a father that was more filled
with love and honor for his son...
This very one...Blessed are your eyes for reading this message.
Remember, God's message CAN make the difference in the life
of someone close to you.
Q 5:3: This day I've perfected your religion for you, and completed
my favor on you, and chose Islam for you as religion.
Please keep pray for all the needful and painful people in
this planet and look after each other.
Showing posts with label TAZKIRAH. Show all posts
Showing posts with label TAZKIRAH. Show all posts
Saturday, 20 February 2010
Sunday, 13 September 2009
Laylatul-Qadr and Menstruating Women
Bismillah and Alhamdulillah...
Praise be to Allaah, we seek His help and His forgiveness. We seek refuge with Allaah from the evil of our own souls and from our bad deeds. Whomsoever Allaah guides will never be led astray, and whomsoever Allaah leaves astray, no one can guide. I bear witness that there is no god but Allaah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.
What can a Woman who is Menstruating do on
Laylat al-Qadr?
Reading Quraan during mensesBecause the woman who is menstruating is not allowed to pray, she can spend the night in doing other acts of worship apart from prayer, such as:
1- Reading or reciting Quraan ( +/-)
2- Zikir such as saying Subhaan-Allaah, La ilaaha illa-Allaah, al-Hamdu Lillaah, etc. She can repeat the words
"Subhaan-Allaah wa l-hamdu Lillaah, wa laa ilaaha ill-Allaah, wa Allaahu akbar "(Glory be to Allaah, praise be to Allaah, there is no god but Allaah and Allaah is Most Great)
and
"Subhaan Allaah wa bi hamdihi, subhaan Allaah il-Azeem"
(Glory and praise be to Allaah, glory be to Allaah the Almighty.
3- Istighfaar (praying for forgiveness) , by repeating the phrase "Astaghfir-Allaah" (I ask Allaah for forgiveness) .
4- Duaa (supplication) “ she can pray to Allaah and ask Him for what is good in this world and in the Hereafter, for dua is one of the best acts of worship. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, "Duaa is ibaadah (worship)." (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 2895; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Tirmidhi, 2370).
The woman who is menstruating can do these acts of worship and others on Laylat al-Qadr.
This is one of the issues on which the scholars, may Allaah have mercy on them, differed.
The majority of fuqahaa say that it is haraam for a woman to recite Quraan during her period, until she is taahir (pure) again. The only exceptions they make is in the case of dhikr (remembrance of Allaah) and phrases that are not intended as tilaawah (recitation) , such as saying "Bismillaahir-Rahmaani-Raheem or "Innaa Lillaahi wa innaa ilayhi raajiun", or other phrases from the Quraan which are repeated as general duaas.
They base their evidence for forbidding menstruating women to recite Quraan on several things, including the following:
Menstruation is seen as coming under the rulings that apply to one who is junub (in a state of impurity following sexual intercourse) , because both states require ghusl. This is based on the hadeeth narrated by Ali ibn Abi Taalib (may Allaah be pleased with him), according to which the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to teach the Quraan and he never prevented anyone from learning it except those who were in a state of janaabah (impurity). (Reported by Abu Dawood, 1/281; al-Tirmidhi, 146; al-Nisaai, 1/144; Ibn Maajah, 1/207; Ahmad, 1/84; Ibn Khuzaymah [??], 1/104. Al-Tirmidhi said: a saheeh hasan hadeeth. Al-Haafiz ibn Hajar said: the truth is that it is the type of hasan hadeeth that could be used as evidence).
The hadeeth of Ibn Umar (may Allaah be pleased with them both), according to which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "The menstruating woman and the one who is in a state of impurity (janaabah) should not recite anything of the Quraan." (Reported by al-Tirmidhi, 131; Ibn Maajah, 595; al-Daaraqutni (1/117); al-Bayhaqi, 1/89. This is a daeef hadeeth, because it was reported by Ismaa’eel ibn Ayyaash from the Hijaazis, and his reports from them are daeef as is well known to those who are conversant with the study of hadeeth. Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah said (21/460): it is a daeef hadeeth by the unanimous agreement of the scholars of hadeeth.
See Nasb al-Raayah, 1/195; al-Talkhees al-Habeer, 1/183).
Some scholars say that it is permitted for a menstruating woman to recite Quraan. This is the opinion of Maalik, and one opinion narrated from Ahmad, which Ibn Taymiyah preferred and which al-Shawkaani believed to be correct.
The scholars based the following points on this opinion:
The principle is that things are allowed and permitted unless there is evidence to the contrary. There is no such evidence to say that a menstruating woman is not allowed to recite Quraan. Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah said: "There is no clear, saheeh text to indicate that a menstruating woman is forbidden to recite Qurân.It is known that women used to menstruate at the time of the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), and he did not forbid them to recite Quraan, or to remember Allaah (dhikr) and offer duaa."
Allaah, may He be glorified and exalted, commands (Muslims) to recite Quraan. He praises the one who does so, and promises him (or her) a great reward. No one is excluded from this except the one concerning whom there is solid evidence (daleel), and there is no such evidence in the case of menstruating women, as stated above.
The analogy between the menstruating woman and the one who is in a state of janaabah is made despite the fact that there are differences between them. The one who is in a state of janaabah has the option of removing the "barrier" by making ghusl, unlike the menstruating woman. A woman period usually lasts for some length of time, whereas the person who is in a state of janaabah is required to do ghusl when the time for prayer comes.
Preventing a menstruating woman from reciting Quraan deprives her of the chance to earn reward, and it may make her forget something of the Quraan, or she may need to recite it for the purposes of teaching or learning.
From the above, it is clear that the evidence of those who allow a menstruating woman to recite Quraan is stronger. If a woman wants to err on the side of caution, she can limit her recitation to the passages which she is afraid of forgetting.
It is very important to note that what we have been discussing here is restricted to what a menstruating woman recites from memory. When it comes to reading from the Mus-haf (the Arabic text itself), a different rule applies. The correct view of the scholars is that it is forbidden to touch the mus-haf when one is in any kind of state of impurity, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): " which none can touch except the purified.: [al-Waaqi’ah 56:79]. In a letter to Amr ibn Hazm, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told the people of Yemen: "No one should touch the Quraan except one who is taahir (pure)."(Reported by Maalik, 1/199; al-Nisaa’i, 8/57; Ibn Hibbaan, 793; al-Bayhaqi, 1/87.
Friday, 11 September 2009
Looking for the NIGHT
Bismillah and Alhamdulillah...
Praise be to Allaah, the Lord of the World, and peace and blessings be upon the Trustworthy Prophet Muhammad and upon all his family and companions.
Almost reaching the climax of Ramadhan, the month of Barakah....
When it comes to the last ten days of Ramadhan, people will be talking about Laylatul Qadr, again years passed and still, the repeated things uttered. Personally,with age the meaning of this virtue night changes and the greatest hope is to feel the chill of ITS air.............
The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to strive hard (in worship) during the last ten days of Ramadaan in a way that he did not strive at any other times. (Muslim, 1175, from ‘Aa’ishah).
Among the things he did were secluding himself in I’tikaaf (spending last 10 days of Ramadan in the masjid) and seeking Laylat al-Qadr during this time. (Al-Bukhaari, 1913; Muslim, 1169). In al-Saheehayn it is reported from the hadeeth of ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) that when the last ten days of Ramadaan came, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) would stay up at night, wake his family and gird his loins. (al-Bukhaari, 1920; Muslim, 1174). Muslim added: he strove hard and girded his loins.
Among the unique virtues of these special nights is that Laylat al-Qadr is among them. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“Haa-Meem. [These letters are one of the miracles of the Qur’aan and none but Allaah (Alone) knows their meanings.]
By the manifest Book (this Qur’aan) that makes things clear.
We sent it (this Qur’aan) down on a blessed night [(i.e.. the Night of Al-Qadr) in the month of Ramadaan]. Verily, We are ever warning [mankind that Our Torment will reach those who disbelieve in Our Oneness of Lordship and in Our Oneness of worship].
Therein (that night) is decreed every matter of ordainments.
As a Command (or this Qur’aan or the Decree of every matter) from Us. Verily, We are ever sending (the Messengers),
(As) a mercy from your Lord. Verily, He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower.” [al-Dukhaan 44:1-6]
Allaah sent down the Qur’aan on this night which the Lord of the Worlds has described as blessed. It was reported from a group of the Salaf – including Ibn ‘Abbaas, Qutaadah, Sa’eed ibn Jubayr, ‘Ikrimah, Mujaahid and others – that the night on which the Qur’aan was sent down was Laylat al-Qadr..
The phrase Therein (that night) is decreed every matter of ordainments means, on that night the destiny of all creatures for the coming year is decreed. On that night it is written who will live, who will die, who will be saved, who will be doomed, who will be destined for Paradise, who will be destined for Hell, who will be granted honour, who will be humiliated, where drought and famine will occur, and everything else that Allaah wills in that year.
What is meant by the idea that the destiny of all creatures is written on Laylat al-Qadr is – and Allaah knows best – that on Laylat al-Qadr they are transferred from al-Lawh al-Mahfooz. Ibn ‘Abbaas said: “You may see a man furnishing his home or plowing his field, and he is one of those who are going to die,” i.e., it has been decreed on Laylat al-Qadr that he is one of those who are going to die (in the coming year). And it was said that on this night, the destiny of people is shown to the angels.
The meaning of “Qadr” is veneration or honour, i.e. it is a night that is venerated because of its special characteristics, and because the one who stays up during this night becomes a man of honour. And it was said that Qadr means constriction, in the sense that the knowledge of precisely when this night is, is hidden. Al-Khaleel ibn Ahmad said: it was called Laylat al-Qadr because the earth is constricted by the great numbers of angels on that night, and Qadr means constriction. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “But when He tries him, by straitening his means of life [fa qadara ‘alayhi rizqahu]…” [al-Fajr 89:16], i.e., by constricting or reducing his provision.
And it was said that Qadr means Qadar, i.e., that on this night the decrees for the coming year are ordained, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“Therein (that night) is decreed every matter of ordainments” [al-Dukhaan 44:4]
1. and because Allaah’s decrees are decided and written down on this night.
So Allaah has called it Laylat al-Qadr, because of its great value and high status with Allaah, and because so many sins are forgiven and so many faults are concealed during this night. For it is the night of forgiveness, as it was reported in al-Saheehayn from Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever stays up during Laylat al-Qadr out of faith and in the hope of earning reward, all his previous sins will be forgiven.” (al-Bukhaari, 1910; Muslim, 760).
Allaah has given this night special characteristics which make it unique:
1. It is the night on which the Qur’aan was sent down, as we have stated above. Ibn ‘Abbaas and others said: “Allaah sent down the Qur’aan at one time from al-Lawh al-Mahfooz to Bayt al-‘Izzah in the first heaven, then it was revealed to the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) in stages according to events over twenty-three years.” (Tafseer Ibn Katheer, 4/529)
2. Allaah described it as being better than a thousand months, as He said (interpretation of the meaning): “The night of al-Qadr is better than a thousand months” [al-Qadr 97:3].
3. Allaah described it as being blessed, as He said (interpretation of the meaning): “We sent it (this Qur’aan) down on a blessed night” [al-Dukhaan 44:3].
4. On this night, the angels and the Spirit [al-Rooh] descend, “i.e.., many angels descend of this night because it is so blessed, and the angels come down when Allaah’s blessing and mercy come down, just as they come down when Qur’aan is recited, and they surround the circles of dhikr (gatherings where Allaah is remembered), and they beat their wings for the one who sincerely seeks knowledge, out of respect for him.” (See Tafseer Ibn Katheer, 4/531). The Spirit [al-Rooh] is Jibreel (peace be upon him), who is specifically mentioned in this manner as a sign of respect for him.
5. This night is described as peace, i.e., it is safe, for the Shaytaan cannot do any evil or cause any harm on this night, as Mujaahid said. (See Tafseer Ibn Katheer, 4/531). On this night, many people are saved from punishment because of what they do to worship Allaah, may He be glorified.
6. “Therein (that night) is decreed every matter of ordainments” [al-Dukhaan 44:4 – interpretation of the meaning], i.e., the affairs of that year are dispatched from al-Lawh al-Mahfooz to the angels who record the decrees: who will live, who will die, what provision people will be given, what will happen until the end of that year, every matter of ordainments is decreed, and it cannot be altered or changed. (See Tafseer Ibn Katheer, 4/137, 138). All of this is already known to Allaah before it is even written down, but He makes known to the angels what is to happen, and commands them to do whatever they are enjoined to do. (Sharh Saheeh Muslim li’l-Nawawi, 8/57).
7. Allaah forgives the previous sins of the one who stays up and prays during this night out of faith and in hope of earning the reward from Him. It was reported in the hadeeth of Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever fasts the month of Ramadaan out of faith and in the hope of earning reward, all his previous sins will be forgiven, and whoever stays up during Laylat al-Qadr out of faith and in the hope of earning reward, all his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Agreed upon). The phrase “out of faith and in the hope of earning reward” means, believing in Allaah’s promise of reward for this, and seeking the reward, with no other aim or purpose, such as showing off etc.” (Fath al-Baari, 4/251).
Allaah has revealed a soorah concerning this night which will be recited until the Day of Resurrection, in which He mentions the honour and great value of this night. This is the soorah in which He says (interpretation of the meaning):
“Verily, We have sent it (this Qur’aan) down in the Night of Al-Qadr (Decree).
And what will make you know what the Night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is?
The Night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is better than a thousand months (i.e. worshipping Allaah in that night is better than worshipping Him a thousand months, i.e. 83 years and 4 months).
Therein descend the angels and the Rooh [Jibreel] by Allaah’s Permission with all Decrees,
(All that night), there is peace (and goodness from Allaah to His believing slaves) until the appearance of dawn.” [al-Qadr 97:1-5]
The phrase And what will make you know what the Night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is? serves to draw attention to the importance and great significance of this night.
The Night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is better than a thousand months means, it is better than over eighty three years, as we have already mentioned. This is a great virtue, the value of which no one can fully understand except the Lord of the Worlds, may He be blessed and exalted. This encourages the Muslim to spend this night in prayer and to seek the Face of Allaah by doing so. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to seek this night, hoping to gain some good from it, and he is the example for this Ummah.
It is mustahabb to seek it during Ramadaan, especially in the last ten nights of the month. It was reported in Saheeh Muslim that Abu Sa’eed al-Khudri (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) did I’tikaaf during the first ten days of Ramadaan, then he did I’tikaaf during the middle ten days in a Turkish tent [the word qubbah, translated here as “tent”, refers to a tent or any circular structure] in which a mat was placed. He said: so he took the mat in his hand and put it at the side of the tent, then he raised his head to speak to the people, so they came closer to him. He said: “I did I’tikaaf during the first ten days, seeking this night, then I did I’tikaaf during the middle ten days. Then someone came to me and told me that it is in the last ten days, so whoever among you wants to do I’tikaaf, let him do so.” So the people did I’tikaaf with him. He said: “I was shown an odd-numbered night, in the morning of which I was prostrating in mud and water”.. Then in the morning of the twenty-first, he got up to pray Subh and it was raining; the roof of the mosque leaked, and there was mud and water. He came out when he had finished praying, and there was mud and water on his forehead and nose. That was the morning of the twenty-first, one of the last ten days. (Saheeh Muslim, 1167).
In a report, Abu Sa’eed said: “It rained on the night of the twenty-first, and the roof of the mosque leaked over the place where the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was praying. I looked at him, when he had finished praying Salaat al-Subh, and his face was wet with mud and water.” (Agreed upon). Muslim narrated a hadeeth from ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Unays (may Allaah be pleased with him) that was similar to the hadeeth of Abu Sa’eed, except that he said, “it rained on the night of the twenty-third.” According to a hadeeth narrated by Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with them both), the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Seek it in the last ten days of Ramadaan, when there are nine days left, and seven days left, and five days left.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 4/260).
Laylat al-Qadr is in the last ten days of Ramadaan, as stated in the hadeeth of Abu Sa’eed quoted above, and as stated in the hadeeth of ‘Aa’ishah, and in the hadeeth of Ibn ‘Umar who said that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Seek Laylat al-Qadr in the last ten days of Ramadaan.” (The hadeeth of ‘Aa’ishah was narrated by al-Bukhaari, 4/259; the hadeeth of Ibn ‘Umar was narrated by Muslim, 2/823. This wording is that of the hadeeth of ‘Aa’ishah).
It is more likely to be one of the odd-numbered nights, because of the hadeeth of ‘Aa’ishah who said that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Seek Laylat al-Qadr in the odd-numbered nights of the last ten nights.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 4/259)
We should seek it especially in the odd-numbered nights, i.e., on the twenty-first, the twenty-third, the twenty-fifth, the twenty-seventh and the twenty-ninth. It was reported in al-Saheehayn that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Seek it in the last ten nights, on the odd-numbered nights.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1912, see also, 1913. Also narrated by Muslim, 1167, see also 1165).
According to the hadeeth of Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with them both), the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Seek it in the last ten nights of Ramadaan, when there are nine left, when there are seven left, when there are five left.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1917-1918). So it is more likely to be one of the odd-numbered nights.
In Saheeh al-Bukhaari it was narrated that ‘Ubaadah ibn al-Saamit said: the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) came out to tell us when Laylat al-Qadr was, and two of the Muslims were arguing.. He said: “I came out to tell you when Laylat al-Qadr was, and So and so and So and so were arguing, so it [the knowledge of when Laylat al-Qadr was] was taken away from me. Perhaps this is better for you. So seek it on the ninth and the seventh and the fifth” (al-Bukhaari, 1919), i.e., on the odd-numbered nights..
This hadeeth indicates how bad it is to argue and fight, especially with regard to matters of religion, and that this is a cause of goodness being taken away or concealed.
Shaykh al-Islam ibn Taymiyah said: “But odd-numbers have to do with what is past [i.e., when one starts counting from the beginning of the month], so it should be sought on the twenty-first, the twenty-third, the twenty-seventh or the twenty-ninth; or it may be with regard to what is left, as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘when there are nine left, or seven left, or five left, or three left.’ On this basis, if the month has thirty days, these will be even-numbered nights, so on the twenty-second there will be nine days left, on the twenty-fourth there will be seven days left. This is how it was explained by Abu Sa’eed al-Khudri in the saheeh hadeeth, and this is how the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) prayed qiyaam during this month. If this is the case, then the believer should seek it in all of the last ten days.” (al-Fataawaa, 25/284, 285).
Laylat al-Qadr is more likely to be in the last seven days. Ibn ‘Umar (may Allaah be pleased with him) reported that a man among the companions of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was shown Laytal al-Qadr in a dream, and that it was one of the last seven nights. The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “It seems that your dreams agreed that it is one of the last seven nights, so whoever wants to seek it, let him seek it in the last seven nights.” (narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1911; Muslim, 1165). Muslim reported: “Seek it in the last ten nights, and if any of you are weak or unable to do that, then let him not miss the last seven.”
It is most likely to be on the night of the twenty-seventh. It was reported, in a hadeeth narrated by Ahmad from Ibn ‘Umar, and a hadeeth narrated by Abu Dawood from Mu’aawiyah, that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Laylat al-Qadr is the night of the twenty-seventh.” (Musnad Ahmad and Sunan Abu Dawood, 1386). The view that it is the night of the twenty-seventh is the opinion of most of the Sahaabah and the majority of scholars, and Ubayy ibn Ka’b (may Allaah be pleased with him) used to assert, without saying “in shaa Allaah”, that it was the night of the twenty-seventh. Zurr ibn Hubaysh said: I said: What makes you say that, O Abu’l-Mundhir? He said: by the signs of which the Messengers of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told us: that the sun rises that morning with no visible rays. (Narrated by Muslim,2/268) .
Many marfoo’ ahaadeeth were narrated which said that it was on this particular night.
Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with them both) also stated that it is the night of the twenty-seventh. He reached this conclusion by means of an amazing process. It was reported that ‘Umar (may Allaah be pleased with him) gathered the Sahaabah together and included Ibn ‘Abbaas even though he was very young. They said, “Ibn ‘Abbaas is like one of our children. Why have you brought him here with us?” ‘Umar said: “He is a youth who has a good mind and who asks lots of questions.” Then he asked the Sahaabah about Laylat al-Qadr, and they agreed that it was one of the last ten nights of Ramadaan. He asked Ibn ‘Abbaas about it, and he said: “I think I know when it is: it is the night of the twenty-seventh.” ‘Umar said, “What makes you think that?” He said, “Allaah made the heavens seven, and the earths seven, and the days seven, and He created man from seven, and He made Tawaaf seven (circuits), and al-Saa’ee seven, and the stoning of the Jamaar seven.” So Ibn’ Abbaas thought that it was the night of the twenty-seventh because of this analysis. This has been soundly reported from Ibn ‘Abbaas.
Another of the ways in which the conclusion was reached that it is the night of the twenty-seventh is by noting that the word fihaa (therein) in the aayah (interpretation of the meaning): “Therein descend the angels and the Rooh [Jibreel]” [al-Qadr 97:4] is the twenty-seventh word of Soorat al-Qadr [in the original Arabic].
There is no shar’i evidence (daleel) to support this manner of analysis, and there is no need for such calculations, because we have sufficient shar’i evidence available to us.
The fact that it is usually the night of the twenty-seventh – and Allaah knows best – does not mean that this is always the case. It could be the night of the twenty-first, as mentioned in the hadeeth of Abu Sa’eed quoted above, or it could be the twenty-third, as mentioned in the report of ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Unays (may Allaah be pleased with him) quoted above. According to a hadeeth narrated by Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with them both), the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Seek it in the last ten days of Ramadaan, when there are nine days left, and seven days left, and five days left.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 4/260).
Some of the scholars thought that it is more likely that Laylat al-Qadr moves and does not come on a specific night each year. Al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: “This is the apparent meaning because of the conflict between the saheeh ahaadeeth on this matter, and there is no way to reconcile the ahaadeeth apart from saying that Laylat al-Qadr moves.” (al-Majmoo’, 6/450).
Allaah has concealed this night so that His slaves will strive to seek it, and will strive hard in worship, just as He has concealed the hour of jumu’ah, and so on.
So the believer should strive hard during the days and nights of these ten days, seeking Laylat al-Qadr and following the example of our Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), and he should strive in making du’aa’ and seeking to draw close to Allaah.
It was reported that ‘Aa’ishah said: “I said, ‘O Messenger of Allaah, what do you think, if I witness Laylat al-Qadr, what should I say?’ He said: ‘Say, O Allaah, You are Forgiving and Generous, and you love forgiveness, so forgive me.’” (Narrated by Imaam Ahmad, al-Tirmidhi (3515) and Ibn Maajah (3850). Its isnaad is saheeh).
Thirdly: a greater virtue is attached to I’tikaaf on this night than on any other night of the year. I’tikaaf means staying in the mosque to worship Allaah, may He be exalted. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to spend these ten days in I’tikaaf, as stated in the hadeeth of Abu Sa’eed quoted above. He spent the first ten days in I’tikaaf, then the middle ten days, then he told them that he had been seeking Laylat al-Qadr, and that he had been shown that it was in the last ten days, and he said: “Whoever was doing I’tikaaf with me, let him do I’tikaaf for the last ten days.” It was reported from ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to do I’tikaaf during the last ten days of Ramadaan until he passed away, then his wives did I’tikaaf after him. (Agreed upon). There is also a similar report narrated from Ibn ‘Umar.
When the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) wanted to do I’tikaaf, he would pray Fajr, then enter the place where he was to do I’tikaaf, as was stated in al-Saheehayn from the hadeeth of ‘Aa’ishah.
The four imaams and others (may Allaah have mercy on them) said that he entered it before the sun set, and they interpreted the hadeeth as meaning that he entered his place of I’tikaaf and kept away from people after Salaat al-Subh, not that this was the time when he started his I’tikaaf. (See Sharh Muslim li’l-Nawawi, 8/68, 69; Fath al-Baari, 4/277). It is Sunnah for the person in I’tikaaf to keep himself busy with worship, and it is forbidden for him to have intercourse or to do anything that leads to it, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And do not have sexual relations with them (your wives) while you are in I‘tikaaf (i.e. confining oneself in a mosque for prayers and invocations leaving the worldly activities) in the mosques” [al-Baqarah 2:187].
And he should not go out of the mosque except in the case of a pressing need.
The signs by which Laylat al-Qadr is known
The first sign: it was reported in Saheeh Muslim from the hadeeth of Ubayy ibn Ka’b (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) announced that one of its signs was that when the sun rose on the following morning, it had no (visible) rays. (Muslim, 762).
The second sign: it was reported from the hadeeth of Ibn ‘Abbaas narrated by Ibn Khuzaimah, and by al-Tayaalisi in his Musnad, with a saheeh isnaad, that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Laylat al-Qadr is a pleasant night, neither hot nor cold, and the following day the sun rises red and weak.” (Saheeh Ibn Khuzaymah, 2912; Musnad al-Tayaalisi).
The third sign: it was reported by al-Tabaraani with a hasan isnaad from the hadeeth of Waathilah ibn al-Asqa’ (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Laylat al-Qadr is a bright night, neither hot nor cold, in which no meteors are seen.” (Narrated by al-Tabaraani in al-Kabeer. See Majma’ al-Zawaa’id, 3/179; Musnad Ahmad).
These three saheeh ahaadeeth explain the signs which indicate Laylat al-Qadr.
It is not essential for the one who “catches” Laylat al-Qadr to know that he has “caught” it. The point is to strive hard and to be sincere in worship, whether or not one knows that one has “caught” it. It may be that some of those who do not know that may be better with Allaah and higher in status than those who did know which night it was, because the former strove hard. We ask Allaah to accept our fasting and our prayer at night, and to help us to remember Him and to thank Him and to worship Him properly. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad.
To all friends, let us grab the golden opportunity. Allah Rahim....
Praise be to Allaah, the Lord of the World, and peace and blessings be upon the Trustworthy Prophet Muhammad and upon all his family and companions.
Almost reaching the climax of Ramadhan, the month of Barakah....
When it comes to the last ten days of Ramadhan, people will be talking about Laylatul Qadr, again years passed and still, the repeated things uttered. Personally,with age the meaning of this virtue night changes and the greatest hope is to feel the chill of ITS air.............
The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to strive hard (in worship) during the last ten days of Ramadaan in a way that he did not strive at any other times. (Muslim, 1175, from ‘Aa’ishah).
Among the things he did were secluding himself in I’tikaaf (spending last 10 days of Ramadan in the masjid) and seeking Laylat al-Qadr during this time. (Al-Bukhaari, 1913; Muslim, 1169). In al-Saheehayn it is reported from the hadeeth of ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) that when the last ten days of Ramadaan came, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) would stay up at night, wake his family and gird his loins. (al-Bukhaari, 1920; Muslim, 1174). Muslim added: he strove hard and girded his loins.
Among the unique virtues of these special nights is that Laylat al-Qadr is among them. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“Haa-Meem. [These letters are one of the miracles of the Qur’aan and none but Allaah (Alone) knows their meanings.]
By the manifest Book (this Qur’aan) that makes things clear.
We sent it (this Qur’aan) down on a blessed night [(i.e.. the Night of Al-Qadr) in the month of Ramadaan]. Verily, We are ever warning [mankind that Our Torment will reach those who disbelieve in Our Oneness of Lordship and in Our Oneness of worship].
Therein (that night) is decreed every matter of ordainments.
As a Command (or this Qur’aan or the Decree of every matter) from Us. Verily, We are ever sending (the Messengers),
(As) a mercy from your Lord. Verily, He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower.” [al-Dukhaan 44:1-6]
Allaah sent down the Qur’aan on this night which the Lord of the Worlds has described as blessed. It was reported from a group of the Salaf – including Ibn ‘Abbaas, Qutaadah, Sa’eed ibn Jubayr, ‘Ikrimah, Mujaahid and others – that the night on which the Qur’aan was sent down was Laylat al-Qadr..
The phrase Therein (that night) is decreed every matter of ordainments means, on that night the destiny of all creatures for the coming year is decreed. On that night it is written who will live, who will die, who will be saved, who will be doomed, who will be destined for Paradise, who will be destined for Hell, who will be granted honour, who will be humiliated, where drought and famine will occur, and everything else that Allaah wills in that year.
What is meant by the idea that the destiny of all creatures is written on Laylat al-Qadr is – and Allaah knows best – that on Laylat al-Qadr they are transferred from al-Lawh al-Mahfooz. Ibn ‘Abbaas said: “You may see a man furnishing his home or plowing his field, and he is one of those who are going to die,” i.e., it has been decreed on Laylat al-Qadr that he is one of those who are going to die (in the coming year). And it was said that on this night, the destiny of people is shown to the angels.
The meaning of “Qadr” is veneration or honour, i.e. it is a night that is venerated because of its special characteristics, and because the one who stays up during this night becomes a man of honour. And it was said that Qadr means constriction, in the sense that the knowledge of precisely when this night is, is hidden. Al-Khaleel ibn Ahmad said: it was called Laylat al-Qadr because the earth is constricted by the great numbers of angels on that night, and Qadr means constriction. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “But when He tries him, by straitening his means of life [fa qadara ‘alayhi rizqahu]…” [al-Fajr 89:16], i.e., by constricting or reducing his provision.
And it was said that Qadr means Qadar, i.e., that on this night the decrees for the coming year are ordained, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“Therein (that night) is decreed every matter of ordainments” [al-Dukhaan 44:4]
1. and because Allaah’s decrees are decided and written down on this night.
So Allaah has called it Laylat al-Qadr, because of its great value and high status with Allaah, and because so many sins are forgiven and so many faults are concealed during this night. For it is the night of forgiveness, as it was reported in al-Saheehayn from Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever stays up during Laylat al-Qadr out of faith and in the hope of earning reward, all his previous sins will be forgiven.” (al-Bukhaari, 1910; Muslim, 760).
Allaah has given this night special characteristics which make it unique:
1. It is the night on which the Qur’aan was sent down, as we have stated above. Ibn ‘Abbaas and others said: “Allaah sent down the Qur’aan at one time from al-Lawh al-Mahfooz to Bayt al-‘Izzah in the first heaven, then it was revealed to the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) in stages according to events over twenty-three years.” (Tafseer Ibn Katheer, 4/529)
2. Allaah described it as being better than a thousand months, as He said (interpretation of the meaning): “The night of al-Qadr is better than a thousand months” [al-Qadr 97:3].
3. Allaah described it as being blessed, as He said (interpretation of the meaning): “We sent it (this Qur’aan) down on a blessed night” [al-Dukhaan 44:3].
4. On this night, the angels and the Spirit [al-Rooh] descend, “i.e.., many angels descend of this night because it is so blessed, and the angels come down when Allaah’s blessing and mercy come down, just as they come down when Qur’aan is recited, and they surround the circles of dhikr (gatherings where Allaah is remembered), and they beat their wings for the one who sincerely seeks knowledge, out of respect for him.” (See Tafseer Ibn Katheer, 4/531). The Spirit [al-Rooh] is Jibreel (peace be upon him), who is specifically mentioned in this manner as a sign of respect for him.
5. This night is described as peace, i.e., it is safe, for the Shaytaan cannot do any evil or cause any harm on this night, as Mujaahid said. (See Tafseer Ibn Katheer, 4/531). On this night, many people are saved from punishment because of what they do to worship Allaah, may He be glorified.
6. “Therein (that night) is decreed every matter of ordainments” [al-Dukhaan 44:4 – interpretation of the meaning], i.e., the affairs of that year are dispatched from al-Lawh al-Mahfooz to the angels who record the decrees: who will live, who will die, what provision people will be given, what will happen until the end of that year, every matter of ordainments is decreed, and it cannot be altered or changed. (See Tafseer Ibn Katheer, 4/137, 138). All of this is already known to Allaah before it is even written down, but He makes known to the angels what is to happen, and commands them to do whatever they are enjoined to do. (Sharh Saheeh Muslim li’l-Nawawi, 8/57).
7. Allaah forgives the previous sins of the one who stays up and prays during this night out of faith and in hope of earning the reward from Him. It was reported in the hadeeth of Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever fasts the month of Ramadaan out of faith and in the hope of earning reward, all his previous sins will be forgiven, and whoever stays up during Laylat al-Qadr out of faith and in the hope of earning reward, all his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Agreed upon). The phrase “out of faith and in the hope of earning reward” means, believing in Allaah’s promise of reward for this, and seeking the reward, with no other aim or purpose, such as showing off etc.” (Fath al-Baari, 4/251).
Allaah has revealed a soorah concerning this night which will be recited until the Day of Resurrection, in which He mentions the honour and great value of this night. This is the soorah in which He says (interpretation of the meaning):
“Verily, We have sent it (this Qur’aan) down in the Night of Al-Qadr (Decree).
And what will make you know what the Night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is?
The Night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is better than a thousand months (i.e. worshipping Allaah in that night is better than worshipping Him a thousand months, i.e. 83 years and 4 months).
Therein descend the angels and the Rooh [Jibreel] by Allaah’s Permission with all Decrees,
(All that night), there is peace (and goodness from Allaah to His believing slaves) until the appearance of dawn.” [al-Qadr 97:1-5]
The phrase And what will make you know what the Night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is? serves to draw attention to the importance and great significance of this night.
The Night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is better than a thousand months means, it is better than over eighty three years, as we have already mentioned. This is a great virtue, the value of which no one can fully understand except the Lord of the Worlds, may He be blessed and exalted. This encourages the Muslim to spend this night in prayer and to seek the Face of Allaah by doing so. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to seek this night, hoping to gain some good from it, and he is the example for this Ummah.
It is mustahabb to seek it during Ramadaan, especially in the last ten nights of the month. It was reported in Saheeh Muslim that Abu Sa’eed al-Khudri (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) did I’tikaaf during the first ten days of Ramadaan, then he did I’tikaaf during the middle ten days in a Turkish tent [the word qubbah, translated here as “tent”, refers to a tent or any circular structure] in which a mat was placed. He said: so he took the mat in his hand and put it at the side of the tent, then he raised his head to speak to the people, so they came closer to him. He said: “I did I’tikaaf during the first ten days, seeking this night, then I did I’tikaaf during the middle ten days. Then someone came to me and told me that it is in the last ten days, so whoever among you wants to do I’tikaaf, let him do so.” So the people did I’tikaaf with him. He said: “I was shown an odd-numbered night, in the morning of which I was prostrating in mud and water”.. Then in the morning of the twenty-first, he got up to pray Subh and it was raining; the roof of the mosque leaked, and there was mud and water. He came out when he had finished praying, and there was mud and water on his forehead and nose. That was the morning of the twenty-first, one of the last ten days. (Saheeh Muslim, 1167).
In a report, Abu Sa’eed said: “It rained on the night of the twenty-first, and the roof of the mosque leaked over the place where the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was praying. I looked at him, when he had finished praying Salaat al-Subh, and his face was wet with mud and water.” (Agreed upon). Muslim narrated a hadeeth from ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Unays (may Allaah be pleased with him) that was similar to the hadeeth of Abu Sa’eed, except that he said, “it rained on the night of the twenty-third.” According to a hadeeth narrated by Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with them both), the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Seek it in the last ten days of Ramadaan, when there are nine days left, and seven days left, and five days left.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 4/260).
Laylat al-Qadr is in the last ten days of Ramadaan, as stated in the hadeeth of Abu Sa’eed quoted above, and as stated in the hadeeth of ‘Aa’ishah, and in the hadeeth of Ibn ‘Umar who said that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Seek Laylat al-Qadr in the last ten days of Ramadaan.” (The hadeeth of ‘Aa’ishah was narrated by al-Bukhaari, 4/259; the hadeeth of Ibn ‘Umar was narrated by Muslim, 2/823. This wording is that of the hadeeth of ‘Aa’ishah).
It is more likely to be one of the odd-numbered nights, because of the hadeeth of ‘Aa’ishah who said that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Seek Laylat al-Qadr in the odd-numbered nights of the last ten nights.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 4/259)
We should seek it especially in the odd-numbered nights, i.e., on the twenty-first, the twenty-third, the twenty-fifth, the twenty-seventh and the twenty-ninth. It was reported in al-Saheehayn that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Seek it in the last ten nights, on the odd-numbered nights.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1912, see also, 1913. Also narrated by Muslim, 1167, see also 1165).
According to the hadeeth of Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with them both), the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Seek it in the last ten nights of Ramadaan, when there are nine left, when there are seven left, when there are five left.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1917-1918). So it is more likely to be one of the odd-numbered nights.
In Saheeh al-Bukhaari it was narrated that ‘Ubaadah ibn al-Saamit said: the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) came out to tell us when Laylat al-Qadr was, and two of the Muslims were arguing.. He said: “I came out to tell you when Laylat al-Qadr was, and So and so and So and so were arguing, so it [the knowledge of when Laylat al-Qadr was] was taken away from me. Perhaps this is better for you. So seek it on the ninth and the seventh and the fifth” (al-Bukhaari, 1919), i.e., on the odd-numbered nights..
This hadeeth indicates how bad it is to argue and fight, especially with regard to matters of religion, and that this is a cause of goodness being taken away or concealed.
Shaykh al-Islam ibn Taymiyah said: “But odd-numbers have to do with what is past [i.e., when one starts counting from the beginning of the month], so it should be sought on the twenty-first, the twenty-third, the twenty-seventh or the twenty-ninth; or it may be with regard to what is left, as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘when there are nine left, or seven left, or five left, or three left.’ On this basis, if the month has thirty days, these will be even-numbered nights, so on the twenty-second there will be nine days left, on the twenty-fourth there will be seven days left. This is how it was explained by Abu Sa’eed al-Khudri in the saheeh hadeeth, and this is how the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) prayed qiyaam during this month. If this is the case, then the believer should seek it in all of the last ten days.” (al-Fataawaa, 25/284, 285).
Laylat al-Qadr is more likely to be in the last seven days. Ibn ‘Umar (may Allaah be pleased with him) reported that a man among the companions of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was shown Laytal al-Qadr in a dream, and that it was one of the last seven nights. The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “It seems that your dreams agreed that it is one of the last seven nights, so whoever wants to seek it, let him seek it in the last seven nights.” (narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1911; Muslim, 1165). Muslim reported: “Seek it in the last ten nights, and if any of you are weak or unable to do that, then let him not miss the last seven.”
It is most likely to be on the night of the twenty-seventh. It was reported, in a hadeeth narrated by Ahmad from Ibn ‘Umar, and a hadeeth narrated by Abu Dawood from Mu’aawiyah, that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Laylat al-Qadr is the night of the twenty-seventh.” (Musnad Ahmad and Sunan Abu Dawood, 1386). The view that it is the night of the twenty-seventh is the opinion of most of the Sahaabah and the majority of scholars, and Ubayy ibn Ka’b (may Allaah be pleased with him) used to assert, without saying “in shaa Allaah”, that it was the night of the twenty-seventh. Zurr ibn Hubaysh said: I said: What makes you say that, O Abu’l-Mundhir? He said: by the signs of which the Messengers of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told us: that the sun rises that morning with no visible rays. (Narrated by Muslim,2/268) .
Many marfoo’ ahaadeeth were narrated which said that it was on this particular night.
Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with them both) also stated that it is the night of the twenty-seventh. He reached this conclusion by means of an amazing process. It was reported that ‘Umar (may Allaah be pleased with him) gathered the Sahaabah together and included Ibn ‘Abbaas even though he was very young. They said, “Ibn ‘Abbaas is like one of our children. Why have you brought him here with us?” ‘Umar said: “He is a youth who has a good mind and who asks lots of questions.” Then he asked the Sahaabah about Laylat al-Qadr, and they agreed that it was one of the last ten nights of Ramadaan. He asked Ibn ‘Abbaas about it, and he said: “I think I know when it is: it is the night of the twenty-seventh.” ‘Umar said, “What makes you think that?” He said, “Allaah made the heavens seven, and the earths seven, and the days seven, and He created man from seven, and He made Tawaaf seven (circuits), and al-Saa’ee seven, and the stoning of the Jamaar seven.” So Ibn’ Abbaas thought that it was the night of the twenty-seventh because of this analysis. This has been soundly reported from Ibn ‘Abbaas.
Another of the ways in which the conclusion was reached that it is the night of the twenty-seventh is by noting that the word fihaa (therein) in the aayah (interpretation of the meaning): “Therein descend the angels and the Rooh [Jibreel]” [al-Qadr 97:4] is the twenty-seventh word of Soorat al-Qadr [in the original Arabic].
There is no shar’i evidence (daleel) to support this manner of analysis, and there is no need for such calculations, because we have sufficient shar’i evidence available to us.
The fact that it is usually the night of the twenty-seventh – and Allaah knows best – does not mean that this is always the case. It could be the night of the twenty-first, as mentioned in the hadeeth of Abu Sa’eed quoted above, or it could be the twenty-third, as mentioned in the report of ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Unays (may Allaah be pleased with him) quoted above. According to a hadeeth narrated by Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with them both), the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Seek it in the last ten days of Ramadaan, when there are nine days left, and seven days left, and five days left.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 4/260).
Some of the scholars thought that it is more likely that Laylat al-Qadr moves and does not come on a specific night each year. Al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: “This is the apparent meaning because of the conflict between the saheeh ahaadeeth on this matter, and there is no way to reconcile the ahaadeeth apart from saying that Laylat al-Qadr moves.” (al-Majmoo’, 6/450).
Allaah has concealed this night so that His slaves will strive to seek it, and will strive hard in worship, just as He has concealed the hour of jumu’ah, and so on.
So the believer should strive hard during the days and nights of these ten days, seeking Laylat al-Qadr and following the example of our Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), and he should strive in making du’aa’ and seeking to draw close to Allaah.
It was reported that ‘Aa’ishah said: “I said, ‘O Messenger of Allaah, what do you think, if I witness Laylat al-Qadr, what should I say?’ He said: ‘Say, O Allaah, You are Forgiving and Generous, and you love forgiveness, so forgive me.’” (Narrated by Imaam Ahmad, al-Tirmidhi (3515) and Ibn Maajah (3850). Its isnaad is saheeh).
Thirdly: a greater virtue is attached to I’tikaaf on this night than on any other night of the year. I’tikaaf means staying in the mosque to worship Allaah, may He be exalted. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to spend these ten days in I’tikaaf, as stated in the hadeeth of Abu Sa’eed quoted above. He spent the first ten days in I’tikaaf, then the middle ten days, then he told them that he had been seeking Laylat al-Qadr, and that he had been shown that it was in the last ten days, and he said: “Whoever was doing I’tikaaf with me, let him do I’tikaaf for the last ten days.” It was reported from ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to do I’tikaaf during the last ten days of Ramadaan until he passed away, then his wives did I’tikaaf after him. (Agreed upon). There is also a similar report narrated from Ibn ‘Umar.
When the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) wanted to do I’tikaaf, he would pray Fajr, then enter the place where he was to do I’tikaaf, as was stated in al-Saheehayn from the hadeeth of ‘Aa’ishah.
The four imaams and others (may Allaah have mercy on them) said that he entered it before the sun set, and they interpreted the hadeeth as meaning that he entered his place of I’tikaaf and kept away from people after Salaat al-Subh, not that this was the time when he started his I’tikaaf. (See Sharh Muslim li’l-Nawawi, 8/68, 69; Fath al-Baari, 4/277). It is Sunnah for the person in I’tikaaf to keep himself busy with worship, and it is forbidden for him to have intercourse or to do anything that leads to it, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And do not have sexual relations with them (your wives) while you are in I‘tikaaf (i.e. confining oneself in a mosque for prayers and invocations leaving the worldly activities) in the mosques” [al-Baqarah 2:187].
And he should not go out of the mosque except in the case of a pressing need.
The signs by which Laylat al-Qadr is known
The first sign: it was reported in Saheeh Muslim from the hadeeth of Ubayy ibn Ka’b (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) announced that one of its signs was that when the sun rose on the following morning, it had no (visible) rays. (Muslim, 762).
The second sign: it was reported from the hadeeth of Ibn ‘Abbaas narrated by Ibn Khuzaimah, and by al-Tayaalisi in his Musnad, with a saheeh isnaad, that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Laylat al-Qadr is a pleasant night, neither hot nor cold, and the following day the sun rises red and weak.” (Saheeh Ibn Khuzaymah, 2912; Musnad al-Tayaalisi).
The third sign: it was reported by al-Tabaraani with a hasan isnaad from the hadeeth of Waathilah ibn al-Asqa’ (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Laylat al-Qadr is a bright night, neither hot nor cold, in which no meteors are seen.” (Narrated by al-Tabaraani in al-Kabeer. See Majma’ al-Zawaa’id, 3/179; Musnad Ahmad).
These three saheeh ahaadeeth explain the signs which indicate Laylat al-Qadr.
It is not essential for the one who “catches” Laylat al-Qadr to know that he has “caught” it. The point is to strive hard and to be sincere in worship, whether or not one knows that one has “caught” it. It may be that some of those who do not know that may be better with Allaah and higher in status than those who did know which night it was, because the former strove hard. We ask Allaah to accept our fasting and our prayer at night, and to help us to remember Him and to thank Him and to worship Him properly. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad.
To all friends, let us grab the golden opportunity. Allah Rahim....
Saturday, 18 April 2009
the unique gift of life
Bismillah and alhamdulillah....
"It is interesting that you probably know the exact time, date and place of when and where your birth took place, but this is only because you were told about it. What is less clear is the elusive and mystical moment you truly became aware of your existence"
Almost one month being with 'em ( special people i could say). They are deprived of attention and not knowing their real conditions...The psych ward is also not that conducive, in fact normal people can suffer if end up there just for few days (experimental wise!) From the beginning i don't like yellow-painted ward, i don't know why..The colour looks so fierce, fiery, hot and not "cool" at all. Same goes to respiratory unit in my practised hospital, it seems like all sort of germs are crawling there, having fun despite the ward should be germ-free....Well it doesn't mean i'm obsessed or having visual hallucination but some people just can't stand something..... anyway..
One mail from Islamic Bulletin and the contents are pretty much suitable for our muhasabah, especially when you are dealing with "not normal people" but you try hard to make them become normal again. Feel grateful for what we have......
The Unique Gift of Life The following is excerpted from the book "Islam 2.0" by Dr. Maher Hathout in which he shares a conversation with the Muslim youth. Your life is a very precious gift from God. Count back to one year before your first birthday, and then try to imagine your state - your state of nothingness. You can not. You may be able to contain and grasp "things," not "nothing." You were born and came to life, not because you wanted to, but because you became. Through a decision by an authority higher than you, and through a process that you did not participate in, you came to occupy a place in existence. (thanx ALLAH and my parents) With the dramatic event of your birth, you came to life with three huge realities. First, you are unique. Nobody else is identical to you, not even your identical twin or, in this age of cloning, even your clone, because your psychological, spiritual and energetic content is poured into your physical being in a unique way. When God blows a spirit into each individual, it manifests in a special way. You are one of a kind. Second, you are immortal. Your biological structure, which is the product of the substance of earth, will degrade and recycle in the biological cycle on earth, but your energy, soul and spirit will always be. If you appreciate your uniqueness and your immortality, your individual values, responsibility and accountability will emerge. God reminds us in the Qur'an that; It is interesting that you probably know the exact time, date and place of when and where your birth took place, but this is only because you were told about it. What is less clear is the elusive and mystical moment you truly became aware of your existence. This blurry time, when you became cognizant that you are you, and that you actually exist, just snuck up on you. From the moment of that realization, each individual experiences life in a unique way. While you may be exposed to the same circumstances as many others, how you feel, perceive, taste, understand and react to life circumstances is unique to you.
By: Dr. Maher Hathout
IslamiCity* -
"[And God shall say.'] "And now, indeed, you have come unto Us in a lonely state, even as We created you in the first instance,' and you have left behind you, all that We bestowed on you [in your lifetime]. And we do not see with you those intercessors of yours whom you supposed to have a share in Gods divinity with regard to yourselves! Indeed, all the bonds between you [and your earthly life] are now severed, and all your former fancies have forsaken you!" (6:94)
"and every one of them will appear before Him on Resurrection Day in a lonely state. " (19:95)
The third reality that comes with the happy event of your birth is a cobweb of expanding circles of relationships. These are different from the countless relationships you acquire throughout your life, such as your friends, neighbors, teammates, and spouses. The first package of relationships that come with your birth day are not subject to your choice; you do not choose your parents, siblings, kin, ancestors, race, gender, place of birth or even country of origin. This category of relationships is a gift form God, you accept, appreciate, and nurture. While the acquired relationships like spouse, friends, and career need prudence.
During the predetermined length of your life, you embark on new information, experiences, and habits in which you learn and perform as a human on this planet. While you will inevitably gain and lose, everything you lose may be regained, except one thing, time. If you lose time, it is gone. Any period of time is a chunk of life, both precious and irretrievable. Based on these simple realities, you will have some basic decisions to make: Are you going to waste your life or are you going to use it? Is your life going to center around you or will you reach wider spheres of involvement and concern? Wasting life partially or totally, i.e. in one lump or in installments, all can be considered a crime close to murder or suicide, even if the gradual waste does not seem that dramatic.
There are many forms and ways to waste a lifetime. With a careful look around you, you can recognize many of them: leading an aimless and purposeless life; abusing your own body, mind and soul; eroding the environment, being shallow and inefficient; all are ways to let the wonderful opportunity that we call life slip away. A life centered on your own self is selfish and never provides fulfillment. Since human beings are interdependent, you will not be happy if surrounded by unhappiness, envy, and animosity. A life that is not dedicated to a higher cause is an elusive quest for unattainable happiness.
Fad
Psych posting
18 April09
Friday, 3 April 2009
INSIGHT INSIDE
Bismillah and alhamdulillah...
Perceive life as it is ...
For one week, I have been struggling to understand all the terminologies in psychiatry; they do make sense when we tried to relate things together, joined them all circurmstantially and tangentially. Being one of the selected people ( read in the world) to study psychiatry makes me realize how important happiness is. I think psychiatry is part of myself and part of everyone , and indulging in it pleased me a lot. The pursuit of happiness is something that concerns us all, no matter where we live or what our station in life is. People have their own way to explore the path to finding happiness and please don't misunderstand them. The stigma and labelling are the culprits that destroy their lives further, what will you feel when people labelled you as M** when you think you are not? I kept on correcting to one of my friends ( the patient) that M** is not a medical term, and we don't address such thing, rather we regard those with disease as something out of norm. If they are in the state of denial can we conclude it as poor insight? You judge it !
Is that normal to have a swing mood? Have you ever feel depressed with what you have and who you are now? Believe me, everyone has the period of depression at one point of life, be it minor, major, hypo or hyper one. Only a positive minded person plus the supportive environment knows how to cope with the stressful situation. Mind you guys, more people will suffer mental health problem in the year 2020 and it will be among the leading problems together with all sorts of cardiovascular diseases. May Allah bless us all with health and happiness....
How to cope with stress and depression?
The answer is equip ourselves with faith, hope, patience, acceptance....and never underestimate the power of a smile ( credit to my friend! )
We don't want to institutionalise people with mental disorder rather we want them to go back to the community and make them "a function" human being. No deprivation of rights and all.
There is one sister ( patient) will be discharged and she appears very happy. Can't wait to go out of the "world" into another "world".
"'I want to pray, i want to become a good daughter and i want to become independent.
Previously i was not a good daughter, and now the hidayah comes and i want to become a good person. Please write me the solat time so that i can pray when the times come, " explained one sister when i asked about her first to - do thing after leaving the ward.
"Then you must wear scarf (tudung) and you will be a good muslim too.. Yes i am interested in wearing scarf and i like to eat, so i want to work in a restaurant, i can eat and can earn money as well" .
I'm revealing this simply to open our eyes that the idea of keeping them and educating them do help them in life provided they comply with the medications. I really hope we have the INSIGHT to see the INSIDE of their hearts. Put ours into their shoes, understanding them and inshaAllah we will gain more strength too....
Now i know why Islam teaches us to visit the sick one, to send one to the graveyard, to help the needy..list goes on....
mashaAllah Islam is very beautiful but sadly very few practise Islam as ADDIN, take some, leave some and patch the hole......
May Allah swt helps us in our way towards HIM and all the best for all..
Fad
Perceive life as it is ...For one week, I have been struggling to understand all the terminologies in psychiatry; they do make sense when we tried to relate things together, joined them all circurmstantially and tangentially. Being one of the selected people ( read in the world) to study psychiatry makes me realize how important happiness is. I think psychiatry is part of myself and part of everyone , and indulging in it pleased me a lot. The pursuit of happiness is something that concerns us all, no matter where we live or what our station in life is. People have their own way to explore the path to finding happiness and please don't misunderstand them. The stigma and labelling are the culprits that destroy their lives further, what will you feel when people labelled you as M** when you think you are not? I kept on correcting to one of my friends ( the patient) that M** is not a medical term, and we don't address such thing, rather we regard those with disease as something out of norm. If they are in the state of denial can we conclude it as poor insight? You judge it !
Recommended book by me
Is that normal to have a swing mood? Have you ever feel depressed with what you have and who you are now? Believe me, everyone has the period of depression at one point of life, be it minor, major, hypo or hyper one. Only a positive minded person plus the supportive environment knows how to cope with the stressful situation. Mind you guys, more people will suffer mental health problem in the year 2020 and it will be among the leading problems together with all sorts of cardiovascular diseases. May Allah bless us all with health and happiness....
How to cope with stress and depression?
The answer is equip ourselves with faith, hope, patience, acceptance....and never underestimate the power of a smile ( credit to my friend! )
We don't want to institutionalise people with mental disorder rather we want them to go back to the community and make them "a function" human being. No deprivation of rights and all.
There is one sister ( patient) will be discharged and she appears very happy. Can't wait to go out of the "world" into another "world".
"'I want to pray, i want to become a good daughter and i want to become independent.
Previously i was not a good daughter, and now the hidayah comes and i want to become a good person. Please write me the solat time so that i can pray when the times come, " explained one sister when i asked about her first to - do thing after leaving the ward.
"Then you must wear scarf (tudung) and you will be a good muslim too.. Yes i am interested in wearing scarf and i like to eat, so i want to work in a restaurant, i can eat and can earn money as well" .
I'm revealing this simply to open our eyes that the idea of keeping them and educating them do help them in life provided they comply with the medications. I really hope we have the INSIGHT to see the INSIDE of their hearts. Put ours into their shoes, understanding them and inshaAllah we will gain more strength too....
Now i know why Islam teaches us to visit the sick one, to send one to the graveyard, to help the needy..list goes on....
mashaAllah Islam is very beautiful but sadly very few practise Islam as ADDIN, take some, leave some and patch the hole......
May Allah swt helps us in our way towards HIM and all the best for all..
Fad
Saturday, 7 February 2009
Advice of the Prophet
Bismillah...
Companion of Prophet Muhammad , Khalid ibn El Waleed narrated the following:
A Bedouin came one day to the Prophet and said to him, "O, Messenger of God! I've come to ask you a few questions about the affairs of this life and the Hereafter. "
The Prophet responded "Ask what you wish."
* I'd like to be the most learned of men.
* Fear God, and you will be the most learned of men.
* I wish to be the richest man in the world.
* Be contented, and you will be the richest man in the world.
* I'd like to be the most just man.
* Desire for others what you desire for yourself, and you will be the most just of men.
* I want to be the best of men.
* Do good to others and you will be the best of men.
* I wish to be the most favored by God.
* Engage much in God's praise, and you will be most favored by Him.
* I'd like to complete my faith.
* If you have good manners you will complete your faith.
* I wish to be among those who do good.
* Adore God as if you see Him. If you don't see Him, Know that He sees you. In this way you will be among those who do good.
* I wish to be obedient to God.
* If you observe God's commands you will be obedient.
* I'd like to be free from all sins.
* Bathe yourself from impurity and you will be free from all sins.
* I'd like to be raised on the Day of Judgment in the light.
* Don't wrong yourself or any other creature, and you will be raised on the Day of Judgment in the light.
* I'd like God to bestow His mercy on me.
* If you have mercy on yourself and on others, God will grant you mercy on the Day of Judgment.
* I'd like my sins to be very few.
* If you seek the forgiveness of God as much as you can, your sins will be very few.
* I'd like to be the most honorable man.
* If you do not complain to any fellow creature, you will be the most honorable of men.
* I'd like to be the strongest of men.
* If you put your trust in God, you will be the strongest of men.
* I'd like to enlarge my provision.
* If you keep yourself pure, God will enlarge your provision.
* I'd like to be loved by God and His messenger.
* If you love what God and His messenger love, you will be among their beloved ones.
* I wish to be safe from God's wrath on the Day of Judgment.
* If you do not lose your temper with any of your fellow creatures, you will be safe from the wrath of God on the Day of Judgment.
* I'd like my prayers to be responded.
* If you avoid forbidden actions your prayers will be responded.
* I'd like God not to disgrace me on the Day of Judgment.
* If you guard your chastity, God will not disgrace you on the Day of Judgment.
* I'd like God to provide me with a protective covering on the Day of Judgment.
* Do not uncover your fellow peoples faults, and God will provide you with a covering protection on the Day of Judgment.
Imam El Mustaghfiri said: "I have never heard a tradition more comprehensive of the beauties of religion, and more beneficial than this hadith. It collects all the good things of Islam but not put to use." (Related by Imam Ibn Hambal)
Companion of Prophet Muhammad , Khalid ibn El Waleed narrated the following:
A Bedouin came one day to the Prophet and said to him, "O, Messenger of God! I've come to ask you a few questions about the affairs of this life and the Hereafter. "
The Prophet responded "Ask what you wish."
* I'd like to be the most learned of men.
* Fear God, and you will be the most learned of men.
* I wish to be the richest man in the world.
* Be contented, and you will be the richest man in the world.
* I'd like to be the most just man.
* Desire for others what you desire for yourself, and you will be the most just of men.
* I want to be the best of men.
* Do good to others and you will be the best of men.
* I wish to be the most favored by God.
* Engage much in God's praise, and you will be most favored by Him.
* I'd like to complete my faith.
* If you have good manners you will complete your faith.
* I wish to be among those who do good.
* Adore God as if you see Him. If you don't see Him, Know that He sees you. In this way you will be among those who do good.
* I wish to be obedient to God.
* If you observe God's commands you will be obedient.
* I'd like to be free from all sins.
* Bathe yourself from impurity and you will be free from all sins.
* I'd like to be raised on the Day of Judgment in the light.
* Don't wrong yourself or any other creature, and you will be raised on the Day of Judgment in the light.
* I'd like God to bestow His mercy on me.
* If you have mercy on yourself and on others, God will grant you mercy on the Day of Judgment.
* I'd like my sins to be very few.
* If you seek the forgiveness of God as much as you can, your sins will be very few.
* I'd like to be the most honorable man.
* If you do not complain to any fellow creature, you will be the most honorable of men.
* I'd like to be the strongest of men.
* If you put your trust in God, you will be the strongest of men.
* I'd like to enlarge my provision.
* If you keep yourself pure, God will enlarge your provision.
* I'd like to be loved by God and His messenger.
* If you love what God and His messenger love, you will be among their beloved ones.
* I wish to be safe from God's wrath on the Day of Judgment.
* If you do not lose your temper with any of your fellow creatures, you will be safe from the wrath of God on the Day of Judgment.
* I'd like my prayers to be responded.
* If you avoid forbidden actions your prayers will be responded.
* I'd like God not to disgrace me on the Day of Judgment.
* If you guard your chastity, God will not disgrace you on the Day of Judgment.
* I'd like God to provide me with a protective covering on the Day of Judgment.
* Do not uncover your fellow peoples faults, and God will provide you with a covering protection on the Day of Judgment.
* What will save me from sins?
* Tears, humility and illness.
* What are the best deeds in the eyes of God?
* Gentle manners, modesty and patience.
* What are the worst evils in the eyes of God?
* Hot temper and miserliness.
* What alleviates the wrath of God in this life and in the Hereafter?
* Concealed charity and kindness to relatives.
* What extinguishes hell's fires on the Day of Judgment?
* Patience in adversity and misfortunes.
* Tears, humility and illness.
* What are the best deeds in the eyes of God?
* Gentle manners, modesty and patience.
* What are the worst evils in the eyes of God?
* Hot temper and miserliness.
* What alleviates the wrath of God in this life and in the Hereafter?
* Concealed charity and kindness to relatives.
* What extinguishes hell's fires on the Day of Judgment?
* Patience in adversity and misfortunes.
Imam El Mustaghfiri said: "I have never heard a tradition more comprehensive of the beauties of religion, and more beneficial than this hadith. It collects all the good things of Islam but not put to use." (Related by Imam Ibn Hambal)
"O' Allah, save me, my parents, my family and all musleems from the Hellfire"
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