THE HOLY PROPHET Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said ... · PDF fileTHE HOLY PROPHET...

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ALLAH, IN THE NAME OF, THE MOST AFFECTIONATE, THE MOST MERCIFUL

ASSALATO WASSALAMO ‘ALAIKA YAA RASOOL ALLAH

Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam WA’ ALAA AALIKA WA ASHAABIKA YAA HABEEB ALLAH

Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam

THE HOLY PROPHET Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “WHOEVER LOVES MY SUNNAHS HAS LOVED ME, WHOEVER HAS LOVED ME WILL BE

WITH ME IN JANNAH.” (Al Hadith)

BARKAAT E

SHARIAT (PART 2)

Compiled by:

HAFIZ O QARI MAULANA MUHAMMAD SHAKIR ALI NOORIE

(Ameer – Sunni Dawat E Islami)

PUBLISHED BY

MAKTAB E TAIBA, MARKAZ ISMAIL HABIB MASJID, 126 KAMBEKAR ST. MUMBAI 3

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Publishing Serial No.

Book Name: Barkaat e Shariat (Part 2). Compilation: Maulana Muhammad Shakir Ali Noorie. Translation: Hafiz Muhammed Salim Qadri Noorie, Canada.

No. of Pages: 358 Quantity: 2000

Copyright Reserved

For further queries, please contact:

INDIA MAKTAB E TAIBA

Ismail Habib Masjid, 126 Kambekar St, Mumbai-3 Tel: 0091 22 23434366

U.K.

MARKAZ S.D.I. Noor Mosque, Noor St, Preston, U.K.

Tel: 0044 1772 881786 Website: www.sunnidawateislami.net

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CONTENTS TOPIC PAGE HAMD (PRAISE OF ALLAH TA’ALA)....................................................... 14 NA’AT SHAREEF ........................................................................................ 15 DEDICATED TO: ......................................................................................... 16 ADMIRATION ............................................................................................. 17 AUTHOR’S PREFACE ................................................................................. 19 BARKAAT E SHARIAT AT A GLANCE ..................................................... 22

BBLLEESSSSIINNGGSS OOFF BBIISSMMIILLLLAAAAHH ............................................................................................................................ 2233 EXCELLENCE OF “BISMILLAAH” ............................................................ 23 KEY OF THE QUR’AN ................................................................................. 23 ALL LAWFUL THINGS SHOULD BE STARTED… ................................... 23 MEANS OF FORGIVENESS ........................................................................ 24 UNIQUE WAY TO BE FORGIVEN ............................................................. 24 CURE OF HAZRAT MOOSA ‘ALAIHIS SALAAM .......................................... 25 SAFETY FROM RUIN .................................................................................. 25 IMPORTANT POINT ................................................................................... 26 FREEDOM FROM DESTRUCTION ............................................................ 26 FREEDOM FROM HELLFIRE ..................................................................... 28 COMPLETE ABLUTION ............................................................................. 29 FAITH AND CLOSENESS TO A PROPHET ............................................... 29 REMEDY FOR A HEADACHE .................................................................... 30 POISON HAS NO EFFECT .......................................................................... 30 “BISMILLAAH” IS A VEIL .......................................................................... 31 I WILL SHOW YOU A VERSE… ................................................................. 31 STRENGTH IN THE SEAS ........................................................................... 32 THAT PERSON IS CURSED ........................................................................ 32 FINAL WILL................................................................................................. 33 THREE THOUSAND NAMES..................................................................... 33 FOUR RIVERS .............................................................................................. 33 WHY ALL LAWFUL THINGS SHOULD BEGIN ....................................... 34 NINETEEN LETTERS OF ............................................................................ 36 WEIGH SCALES .......................................................................................... 36 RECITE “BISMILLAAH…” BEFORE EATING AND ................................. 37 POINTS TO NOTE REGARDING ............................................................... 39

EEXXCCEELLLLEENNCCEE OOFF RREECCIITTAATTIIOONN OOFF TTHHEE HHOOLLYY QQUURR’’AANN ...................... 4400 ETIQUETTES OF RECITING THE QUR’AN .............................................. 41 STATUS ELEVATED TWO THOUSAND LEVELS .................................... 42 HOW MUCH SHOULD BE RECITED? ....................................................... 42 DIVIDING INTO SECTIONS AND RECITING .......................................... 43 CRYING DURING RECITATION ............................................................... 43

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RESPECTING AND OBEYING THE COMMANDS ................................... 44 FOURTEEN VERSES OF PROSTRATION .................................................. 44 HOW SHOULD THE PROSTRATIONS ...................................................... 45 WHEN SHOULD THE PROSTRATIONS ................................................... 45 WHEN SHOULD PROSTRATIONS NOT................................................... 45 BEGINNING RECITATION ........................................................................ 46 WHEN SHOULD TA’OODH BE RECITED?............................................... 46 EXCELLENCE OF TA’OODH ..................................................................... 46 POINTS TO NOTE REGARDING TA’OODH ............................................ 47 HOW SHOULD RECITATION BE FINISHED? .......................................... 48 RECITING IN PRAYER (SALAAH) ............................................................ 48 RECITE IN A BEAUTIFUL VOICE .............................................................. 48 WARNING FOR UNDERESTIMATING THE REWARD .......................... 49 REWARD OF THE QUR’AN ....................................................................... 49 DIFFERENCE IN THE RECITATION ......................................................... 50 GLAD TIDINGS FOR THE UMMAH .......................................................... 51 CROWN OF LIGHT ..................................................................................... 51 BRIGHT FULL MOON ................................................................................. 52 …. BUT…??? ................................................................................................. 52 SOMETHING TO PONDER! ....................................................................... 53 COMPANION OF THE GRAVE.................................................................. 53 INTERCESSION WILL BE ACCEPTED ...................................................... 54 STILL OF THE NIGHT ................................................................................. 55 LOOKING AT THE QUR’AN AND RECITING… ..................................... 55 TREATMENT FOR HEARTS ....................................................................... 56 CLEANLINESS OF THE HEART ................................................................ 57 EARTH NOT ABLE TO EAT ........................................................................ 59 PERFUMED FRAGRANCE ......................................................................... 59 RECITING IN A BEAUTIFUL VOICE ......................................................... 59 MEASURING STICK FOR A GOOD VOICE ............................................... 60 SIGNS OF SORROW/SADNESS .................................................................. 61 SHOULD HAVE TEARS IN EYES ............................................................... 61 EMPTY HOUSE ............................................................................................ 63 CALAMITIES REMOVED ........................................................................... 64 RESULT OF CARELESSNESS...................................................................... 64 EXCELLENCE OF SURAH FATIHAH........................................................ 65 EXCELLENCE OF SURAH BAQARA ......................................................... 66 EXCELLENCE OF AYAT UL KURSI ........................................................... 67 LAST TWO VERSES OF SURAH BAQARA ................................................ 68 EXCELLENCE OF SURAH KAHF .............................................................. 69 EXCELLENCE OF SURAH YASEEN .......................................................... 69 SURAH HAA-MEEM AND SURAH MU’MIN........................................... 69

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EXCELLENCE OF SURAH DUKHAAN ..................................................... 70 EXCELLENCE OF SURAH IKHLAAS ........................................................ 70

BBEENNEEFFIITTSS OOFF BBLLEESSSSIINNGGSS ((DDUURROOOODD)).......................................................................................... 7722 BACKGROUND TO THE VERSE ................................................................ 73 FIRST POINT ................................................................................................ 74 SECOND POINT .......................................................................................... 75 REWARD FROM ALLAH TA’ALA............................................................. 76 WHY IS THE UMMAH ORDERED ............................................................. 77 WHY ARE ANGELS ORDERED ................................................................. 78 EXCELLENCE OF BLESSINGS IN LIGHT OF AHADITH ......................... 79 RAISED STATUS .......................................................................................... 80 EXCELLENCE OF RECITING BLESSINGS ................................................ 82 GOLD PEN, SILVER INKPOT, LUMINOUS PAPER.................................. 83 RECITE BLESSINGS IN ABUNDANCE ON FRIDAYS .............................. 84 FORGIVEN BECAUSE OF RECITING ........................................................ 86 REWARD FOR RECITING BLESSINGS ...................................................... 86 DETERMINING ABUNDANCE… ............................................................. 89 PIOUS PEOPLE AND RECITING BLESSINGS ........................................... 89 HONOURED WITH SEEING RASOOL ALLAH........................................ 91 A HUGE ANGEL.......................................................................................... 92 INTRODUCED IN THE HEAVENS ............................................................ 93 RASOOL ALLAH’S PRESENT .................................................................... 94 MAY HE BE RUINED .................................................................................. 95 WHO IS THE MISER? .................................................................................. 96 DEPRIVED OF SEEING RASOOL ALLAH................................................. 97 FOUR THINGS ARE CRUEL ....................................................................... 98 STANDING OVER A ROTTEN CORPSE .................................................... 99 IN THE FIRE ............................................................................................... 100 HE IS PATHETIC ....................................................................................... 100 HE HAS NO RELATIONSHIP WITH ME ................................................. 100 RASOOL ALLAH IGNORING ONE… ..................................................... 101 TONGUE BECAME MUTE ........................................................................ 102 CLOSENESS TO ALLAH TA’ALA ............................................................ 102 REWARD EQUIVALENT TO 400 PILGRIMAGES ................................... 103 EACH HAIR SEEKS FORGIVENESS ........................................................ 104 BITTERNESS OF DEATH REMOVED ...................................................... 105 AGONIES OF DEATH ARE EASED .......................................................... 105 QUESTIONING IN THE GRAVE MADE EASIER .................................... 106 INHABITANTS OF THE GRAVEYARD FORGIVEN .............................. 107 HE CROSSED THE BRIDGE (PUL SIRAAT) ............................................. 109 BLESSINGS ARE A MEANS OF FORGIVENESS ..................................... 111 SINS DESTROYED ..................................................................................... 113

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AN ANGEL’S FORGIVENESS................................................................... 113 DEBT WAS REPAID................................................................................... 115 FISH RECITING BLESSINGS .................................................................... 116 FREEDOM FROM HELL ........................................................................... 116 FREEDOM FROM BAD DEEDS ................................................................ 117 ESCAPE THE INTENSE THIRST ON THE ............................................... 117 RECITE BLESSINGS IN A LOUD VOICE ................................................. 118 BLESSINGS UPON HEARING THE NAME ............................................. 118 SEEN IN A DREAM ................................................................................... 119 WILL CONTINUE RECEIVING REWARDS ............................................ 121 REWARD FOR WRITING… ...................................................................... 121 BLESSED WITH SEEING RASOOL ALLAH ............................................ 122 A WRITER’S FORGIVENESS..................................................................... 122 HAND BECAME ROTTEN........................................................................ 123 TONGUE CUT OFF .................................................................................... 123 THIS IS DISLIKED ...................................................................................... 124 DO NOT BE ANNOYED ............................................................................ 124 HOW WILL SUPPLICATIONS BE ACCEPTED?...................................... 126 O PERFORMER OF PRAYER…ASK! ........................................................ 126 WINGS OF SUPPLICATIONS ................................................................... 127 OTHERWISE SUPPLICATIONS ARE RETURNED ................................. 127 HOW SHOULD BLESSINGS BE RECITED? ............................................. 128 LESS THAN A MOSQUITO ....................................................................... 128 RASOOL ALLAH PRESENT IN THE HEART .......................................... 129 TOTAL HUMILITY AND HUMBLENESS ................................................ 129 REWARD OF RECITING BLESSINGS WITH ........................................... 130 ADDING THE WORD “SAYYEDINA” .................................................... 130 BETTER THAN ALL WORSHIPS .............................................................. 131 BETTER THAN REMEMBRANCE ............................................................ 132 A PERFECT SPIRITUAL GUIDE ............................................................... 133 SHORTEST ROUTE ................................................................................... 133 LAPS ARE FILLED ..................................................................................... 133 AN INCIDENT ........................................................................................... 134 SEVENTY DOORS OF MERCY ................................................................. 134 BLESSINGS GUARD AGAINST BACKBITING ....................................... 135 HONOURED WITH SEEING RASOOL ALLAH...................................... 135 SAVED FROM DISASTER ......................................................................... 136 AN INSPIRING INCIDENT....................................................................... 136 NEEDS FULFILLED ................................................................................... 137 FORGIVEN BEFORE STANDING UP....................................................... 138 THE PEN WILL BREAK ............................................................................. 138 REWARD FOR RECITING ........................................................................ 139

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WHAT IS THE MOST DESIRABLE TIME ................................................. 140 TAUGHT BY RASOOL ALLAH ................................................................ 141 NECESSARY GUIDANCE ......................................................................... 143 SOME MORE BLESSINGS & THEIR BENEFITS ....................................... 143 DUROOD E RAZVIA ................................................................................. 143 EXCELLENCE AND BENEFITS OF .......................................................... 143 METHOD OF RECITING DUROOD E RAZVIA ...................................... 145 DUROOD E SHIFA SHAREEF .................................................................. 146 DUROOD E HALLIL MUSHKILAAT ....................................................... 146 DUROOD E KAMAALIYAH..................................................................... 147 DUROOD E SA’AADAH ........................................................................... 148

IINNVVIITTIINNGG TTOO GGOOOODD // FFOORRBBIIDDDDIINNGG FFRROOMM EEVVIILL............................................ 114499 RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE UMMAH .................................................... 150 HAZRAT LUQMAN’S ADVICE ............................................................... 151 YOU FORGOT YOURSELF? ...................................................................... 152 RESPONSIBILITY OF MUSLIM MEN AND WOMEN............................. 153 EVIL THINGS… ......................................................................................... 154 VERY WEAK FAITH .................................................................................. 155 SINS WILL NOT BE RECORDED .............................................................. 156 MERCILESS RULER................................................................................... 157 THE SUPREME MARTYR ......................................................................... 157 COMPULSORY FOR A BELIEVER ........................................................... 158 CURSING AND SWEARING AT EACH OTHER ..................................... 159 SUPPLICATION (DU’A) WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED .............................. 160 CONTINUE ORDERING TO GOOD ........................................................ 161 BECOME PATIENT ................................................................................... 161 PARADISE IS DECORATED ..................................................................... 162 OCEAN…AND…DROP IN THE OCEAN ............................................... 163 SUCCESSORS (CALIPHS) OF ALLAH TA’ALA ...................................... 163 SUPREME STRUGGLE .............................................................................. 164 MARRIED TO THREE HUNDRED ........................................................... 164 KEYS OF GOODNESS................................................................................ 165 ONE YEAR’S WORSHIP ............................................................................ 166 EQUAL REWARD...................................................................................... 166 DEEDS OF FIFTY MUSLIMS ..................................................................... 167 THE BEST STRUGGLE (JIHAD) ................................................................ 167 RIGHTS OF THE PATHS ........................................................................... 167 GET RID OF EVIL ....................................................................................... 168 PUNISHMENT TO ALL ............................................................................ 169 REASON FOR BEING CURSED ................................................................ 169 WHOLE CITY RUINED ............................................................................. 170 SINCERITY ................................................................................................. 171

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ISLAMIC IDEALS ...................................................................................... 175 SELF SACRIFICE........................................................................................ 177 KNOWLEDGE ........................................................................................... 179 TO STUDY .................................................................................................. 181 DEEDS AND ACTIONS ............................................................................. 181 GOOD COMPANY .................................................................................... 182 STEADFASTNESS...................................................................................... 183 LOVE OF RASOOL ALLAH ...................................................................... 184 STAY AWAY FROM THOSE WITH FALSE BELIEFS .............................. 187 BROTHERHOOD ....................................................................................... 188 CHEERFUL & GOOD NATURED ............................................................. 189 CONCERN FOR THE HEREAFTER.......................................................... 190 OBEDIENCE TO THE LEADER (AMEER) ............................................... 191 ADVICE OF PIOUS PEOPLE ..................................................................... 193 GOLDEN SAYINGS OF HAZRAT ‘ALI .................................................... 193 IMAM E A’ZAM ABU HANIFA’S PRICELESS PEARLS ......................... 194 SAYYEDINA GHAUTH E ‘AZAM............................................................ 195 SOME REQUESTS ...................................................................................... 197

KKNNOOWWLLEEDDGGEE && SSCCHHOOLLAARRSS .......................................................................................................................... 220011 EXCELLENCE OF KNOWLEDGE ............................................................ 201 TEACHER TO MANKIND ........................................................................ 202 A GREAT TREASURE ................................................................................ 203 GREATEST GRACE ................................................................................... 204 FEAR OF ALLAH TA’ALA…AND SCHOLARS ...................................... 206 GRANT ME MORE KNOWLEDGE .......................................................... 206 STATUS OF THOSE WITH KNOWLEDGE .............................................. 207 KNOWLEDGE AND THE QUR’AN ......................................................... 208 EXCELLENCE OF KNOWLEDGE ............................................................ 209 THOSE WITH PATIENCE ......................................................................... 210 EXCELLENCE OF KNOWLEDGE ............................................................ 212 ALLAH TA’ALA’S REWARD ................................................................... 212 LIFE OF ISLAM .......................................................................................... 213 BETTER THAN WORSHIP ........................................................................ 214 LEGACY OF THE PROPHET’S ................................................................. 215 DIFFERENCE BETWEEN KNOWLEDGE… ............................................ 215 KNOWLEDGE AND KINGDOM .............................................................. 216 A BELIEVER’S FRIEND ............................................................................. 216 EXCESSIVE KNOWLEDGE OR… ............................................................. 217 PATH TO PARADISE ................................................................................ 217 ONE WITH KNOWLEDGE DOES NOT DIE ............................................ 218 REASON FOR DISGRACE ........................................................................ 218 GAINING KNOWLEDGE FOR ONE MOMENT… .................................. 219

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THE GREATEST WEALTH ....................................................................... 219 PARADISE SEARCHES FOR ..................................................................... 220 EXCELLENCE OF A STUDENT ................................................................ 220 THE PATH OF ALLAH TA’ALA .............................................................. 221 RESULT OF DENIAL ................................................................................. 222 COMPENSATION FOR SINS .................................................................... 224 HUNGER FOR KNOWLEDGE.................................................................. 224 SEARCHING FOR RELIGIOUS KNOWLEDGE ....................................... 225 DEATH OF A MARTYR ............................................................................. 226 LIVELIHOOD IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF ........................................... 226 LIVING AMONGST THE DEAD .............................................................. 227 KNOWLEDGE AT ANY AGE ................................................................... 227 WITH THE PROPHETS ............................................................................. 228 CITY IN PARADISE ................................................................................... 228 HELL IS UNLAWFUL................................................................................ 228 EXCELLENCE OF SCHOLARS ................................................................. 229 ANGEL’S PROCLAMATION .................................................................... 229 MEETING RASOOL ALLAH .................................................................... 230 DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SCHOLAR ................................................... 230 …OR YOU WILL BE RUINED ................................................................... 230 FREEING A SLAVE WITH EACH STEP ................................................... 231 999 BLESSINGS .......................................................................................... 231 SCHOLARS…LIGHT OF THE UMMAH .................................................. 232 RESPECTING THE SUCCESSORS ............................................................ 232 SUN (BRIGHTNESS) OF THE UMMAH ................................................... 233 MANZIL E SHARAFAT ............................................................................ 233 STATUS CLOSE TO PROPHET’S ‘ALAIHIMUS SALAAM ............................ 234 TWO THINGS CAUSE DESTRUCTION ................................................... 235 LOOKING AT THE FACE IS WORSHIP ................................................... 235 MORE POWERFUL THAN SHAITAAN .................................................. 236 A LARGE SHARE....................................................................................... 236 ONE MISTAKE, TWO SINS ....................................................................... 237 CONTINUOUS REWARDS IN THE GRAVE ........................................... 237 IS JEALOUSY PERMISSIBLE? ................................................................... 237 OBEDIENT ................................................................................................. 238 PUNISHMENT IS TAKEN AWAY ............................................................ 239 HEAVEN & EARTH DECORATED .......................................................... 239 WATER FROM THE POND OF KAUTHAR ............................................. 240 TWO ENEMIES .......................................................................................... 241 IMPORTANCE OF KNOWLEDGE ........................................................... 242 RESPECT OF SCHOLARS ......................................................................... 243 NOT FROM MY UMMAH ......................................................................... 243

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RISK OF INFIDELITY ................................................................................ 244 HE IS A HYPOCRITE ................................................................................. 245 A SCHOLAR…AND…AN ILLITERATE .................................................. 245 DISGRACE ON THE DAY OF JUDGEMENT ........................................... 246 RIGHTS OF A SCHOLAR .......................................................................... 247 WEAKENED HIS OWN FAITH ................................................................ 247 GREAT SINNER AND TRANSGRESSOR ................................................ 248 RAISED STATUS ........................................................................................ 248 CONTEMPT OF A SCHOLAR…INFIDELITY.......................................... 249 DETACHMENT FROM SCHOLARS IS POISON ..................................... 249 SCHOLARS GATHERINGS…WORSHIP ................................................. 250 GARDENS OF PARADISE ........................................................................ 250 BETTER THAN A YEARS WORSHIP ....................................................... 251 THE BEST GATHERINGS ARE THE ........................................................ 251 COMPANY OF A SCHOLAR .................................................................... 252 SEVEN QUALITIES ................................................................................... 252 EIGHT TYPES OF PEOPLE ........................................................................ 253 HESITATION OF THE TONGUE DISAPPEARS ...................................... 254 QUR’AN WITHOUT KNOWLEDGE ........................................................ 254 RASOOL ALLAH IN A GATHERING ...................................................... 255 HAZRAT LUQMAN’S ADVICE ............................................................... 255 COMPENSATION FOR 70 GATHERINGS............................................... 256 IMPORTANCE OF KNOWLEDGE IN THE EYES .................................... 256 KEY OF KNOWLEDGE ............................................................................. 256 WHO IS THE ORPHAN? ........................................................................... 257 MOMENTARY WEALTH… ...................................................................... 258 A CROWN .................................................................................................. 258 GOOD QUALITIES .................................................................................... 259 THE BEST WEALTH .................................................................................. 259 THIS IS CHARITY ...................................................................................... 260 KNOWLEDGE AND WEALTH ................................................................ 260 EXAMPLE OF KNOWLEDGE ................................................................... 261 LIFE FOR A DEAD HEART ....................................................................... 262 KNOWLEDGE AFTER PROPHETHOOD ................................................ 262 TEACHING ILLITERATE ONES IS CHARITY......................................... 263 DEPRIVED OF BLESSINGS ....................................................................... 264 WHICH GATHERING IS BETTER? .......................................................... 264 WORDS OF WISDOM ................................................................................ 265 SIX QUALITIES OF A BELIEVER .............................................................. 266 GO TO CHINA… ....................................................................................... 266 BE GENTLE ................................................................................................ 267 OBTAINING KNOWLEDGE BETTER THAN PRAYER .......................... 268

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WHAT DEED…AT THE TIME OF DEATH? ............................................ 268 MOHADDITH E DEHLVI’S PROCLAMATIONS .................................... 268 BUSINESSMEN LASHED .......................................................................... 269 KNOWLEDGE AND SCHOLARS ............................................................. 270 WHAT IS MEANT BY KNOWLEDGE?..................................................... 270

RREEPPEENNTTAANNCCEE .................................................................................................................................................................................. 227722 SINCERE REPENTANCE .......................................................................... 272 MERCY ON ONE WHO REPENTS ........................................................... 273 THAT IS NOT REPENTANCE .................................................................. 274 IT IS BETTER FOR YOU ............................................................................. 274 SOME ISSUES INVOLVING PREVIOUS UMMAHS ............................... 276 FOUR STAGES OF REPENTANCE ........................................................... 277 THOSE WHO REPENTED… ..................................................................... 279 …SEIZE THEM........................................................................................... 280 BY ALLAH! ................................................................................................ 281 HIS SLAVES REPENTANCE ..................................................................... 283 PUNISHMENT… OR… REPENTANCE? ................................................. 283 GOOD…&…EVIL! ..................................................................................... 284 NINE QUALITIES OF A BELIEVER .......................................................... 285 OUTPOURING OF MERCY....................................................................... 286 ALLAH TA’ALA’S KINDNESS ................................................................. 288 REPENTANCE…&…SUCCESS ................................................................ 289 VICES…VIRTUES ...................................................................................... 290 MEANING OF REPENTANCE (TAUBA) ................................................. 291 CONDITIONS FOR REPENTANCE ......................................................... 295 EXCELLENCE OF REPENTANCE ............................................................ 296 COMPASSIONATE ON THE SLAVES ..................................................... 296 A BELIEVERS REPENTANCE................................................................... 297 A BLACK DOT ON THE HEART .............................................................. 300 IN THE COURT OF ALLAH TA’ALA....................................................... 302 WHAT IS SINCERE REPENTANCE?........................................................ 302 THREE THINGS ......................................................................................... 303 SIX CONDITIONS OF REPENTANCE ..................................................... 303 REGRETTING SINS ................................................................................... 304 SINS…&…PARADISE ............................................................................... 305 WAITING FOR DEATH............................................................................. 305 MULTITUDE OF SINS ............................................................................... 306 REPENTANCE OF AN ETHIOPIAN ........................................................ 307 IBLEES GIVEN TIME ................................................................................. 307 4000 YEARS BEFORE ................................................................................. 308 TEARS FROM THE EYES........................................................................... 308 A PIECE OF THE EARTH .......................................................................... 309

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REPENTANCE NOT ACCEPTED ............................................................. 309 HAZRAT ‘UMAR CRIED .......................................................................... 310 REFLECTION ............................................................................................. 312 EIGHT DOORS OF PARADISE ................................................................. 312

EEXXCCEELLLLEENNCCEE OOFF TTHHEE MMOOSSQQUUEE .............................................................................................................. 331155 IMPORTANCE OF THE MOSQUE ........................................................... 315 THE GREATEST CRUELTY ...................................................................... 315 TESTIMONY TO FAITH ............................................................................ 316 ADORNMENT FOR THE MOSQUE ......................................................... 317 DEEDS RUINED ........................................................................................ 319 BELIEVERS AND BUILDING MOSQUES ................................................ 320 DEMOLISH THE MOSQUE ...................................................................... 321 ALLAH TA’ALA’S MOSQUE, ................................................................... 322 IMPORTANCE OF THE MOSQUE ........................................................... 323 THE BEST PLACE ...................................................................................... 323 HOUSE IN PARADISE .............................................................................. 325 REWARD FOR ATTENDING THE MOSQUE .......................................... 325 WARNING FOR NOT ATTENDING THE MOSQUE .............................. 326 GLAD TIDINGS OF PERFECT LIGHT ...................................................... 327 GARDENS OF PARADISE ........................................................................ 327 REASON FOR BUILDING MOSQUES...................................................... 328 FORBIDDEN IN THE MOSQUE ............................................................... 329 WHOLE OF EARTH IS A MOSQUE.......................................................... 329 PRAYERS IN MASJID E NABVI ................................................................ 330 PRAYERS IN MASJID E AQSA ................................................................. 330 BRIGHTENING THE MOSQUE ................................................................ 331 THE STATUS OF MOSQUES ..................................................................... 332 CLEANLINESS OF THE MOSQUE ........................................................... 333 RESPECT OF THE MOSQUE ..................................................................... 333 REWARD FOR GOING TO THE MOSQUE .............................................. 334 MORE REWARDS ...................................................................................... 334 DEED TO TAKE YOU INTO PARADISE .................................................. 335 IMPORTANCE OF CLEANLINESS .......................................................... 335 REWARD FOR BUILDING A MOSQUE ................................................... 336 LOVED BY ALLAH TA’ALA..................................................................... 337 SEEKING FORGIVENESS ......................................................................... 337 ALLAH TA’ALA’S PILGRIM .................................................................... 337 EXCELLENCE OF GOING TO THE MOSQUE......................................... 338 TEN REWARDS FOR EACH STEP ............................................................ 339 REWARDS ON EACH STEP ...................................................................... 340 THE BEST METHOD ................................................................................. 341 IN ALLAH TA’ALA’S PROTECTION ...................................................... 342

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70,000 ANGELS .......................................................................................... 342 SUPPLICATION (DU’A) FOR ENTERING & ........................................... 343 IN THE SHADE OF ALLAH TA’ALA ....................................................... 343 MOSQUES IN THE HOME ........................................................................ 344 WARRIOR FOR THE SAKE OF ALLAH TA’ALA .................................... 345 GOING TO THE MOSQUE IN DARKNESS.............................................. 346 …WILL TESTIFY ........................................................................................ 346 HOW WILL THE HEART TURN? ............................................................. 346 WILL OBTAIN REWARDS ........................................................................ 346 ETIQUETTES OF THE MOSQUE .............................................................. 347 LOOKING FOR LOST THINGS................................................................. 347 HOW ABOUT BUSINESS TRANSACTIONS? .......................................... 348 EATING ONIONS & GARLIC…? ............................................................. 348 RAW MEAT ................................................................................................ 349 TALKING ABOUT WORLDLY THINGS? ................................................ 349 HOW ABOUT TALKING LOUDLY? ........................................................ 350 SIGNS OF A HYPOCRITE ......................................................................... 351 WORDS OF A’ALA HAZRAT ................................................................... 352 RESPECTING THE MOSQUE ................................................................... 353 PROHIBITED FROM TALKING LOUDLY ............................................... 353 PROHIBITED FROM SPITTING IN THE MOSQUE ................................. 354 SOME ESSENTIAL POINTS ...................................................................... 355 SUPPLICATION (MUNAAJAAT) ............................................................ 358 SALUTATION (SALAAM) ........................................................................ 359 PUBLICATIONS OF: ................................................................................... 360 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES........................................................................... 361

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HAMD (PRAISE OF ALLAH TA’ALA) By Sayyedi A’ala Hazrat ‘Alaihir Rahmah

Wohi Rab Hai Jis Ney Tujh Ko Hama Tan Karam Banaaya

Hamey Bheek Maangney Ko Tera Aastaan Bataaya… Tujhey Hamd Hai Khudaaya

Tumhi Haakim e Baraaya Tumhi Qasim e ‘Ataaya

Tumhi Daafa ‘e Balaaya Tumhi Shaafa ‘e Khataaya… Koi Tum Saa Kaun Aaya

Woh Kunwaari Paak Maryam Woh Nafakhto Feehi Kaa Dum

Hai Ajab Nishaan e Aazam Magar Aamina Ka Jaaya… Wohi Sab Sey Afzal Aaya

Yahi Boley Sidra Waaley Chaman e Jahaan Key Thaaley Sabhi Mey Ney Chaan Daaley Terey Paaye Ka Na Paaya…

Tujhey Yak Ney Yak Banaaya

Fa-idha Faragta Fansab Yeh Milaa Hai Tujh Ko Mansab Jo Gadaa Banaa Chukey Ab Utho Waqt e Bakhshish Aaya…

Karoo Qismat E ‘Ataaya

Arrey Aey Khudaa Key Bando! Koi Merey Dil Ko Dhoondho Merey Paas Thaa Abhee To Abhee Kya Huwaa Khudaaya…

Na Koi Gaya Na Aaya

Hamey Aey Raza Terey Dil Ka Pataa Chalaa Ba-Mushkil Dar e Rozey Key Muqaabil Woh Hamey Nazar To Aaya…

Yeh Na Pooch Kaisa Paaya

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NA’AT SHAREEF Arabic Verses by Maulana Muhammad Rafiuddin Ashrafi

Yaa Mustafa Maa Ji’tana Illa Lanaa Yaa Sayyedi,

Qad Nuwwirat Binooriqad Dunyaa Lanaa Yaa Sayyedi

Man Aasimuy Yaumal Qayamah Laysa Illal Mustafa, Nahnu Nahtaaju Ilaykar Ham Lanaa Yaa Sayyedi

Inna Ra-aytu ’Aksa Na’layka Wajattu Raahatan, Iw Wada’ta Qadmaka Qalbal Lanaa Yaa Sayyedi

Laysa Fee Man Hubbuka Al Laysa Imanul Lahu,

Minka Narjoo Hubbaka Farzuq Lanaa Yaa Sayyedi

Laysa Fid Dunyaa Famay Yarham Lanaa Illaa Siwaaka, Anta Haadin Anta Shaafi’ul Lanaa Yaa Sayyedi

Alhubbu Hubbuka Yaa Nabi Qaala Ta’ala Fil Kitabi,

Man Ahabba Bin Nabi Yuhbib Lanaa Yaa Sayyedi

Kaana Yas-aluka Rafi’uddini Shay-al Lam Yazal, A’tina ‘Alaa Raudatika Mautal Lanaa Yaa Sayyedi

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Allah, In The Name Of, The Most Affectionate, Most Merciful

Nahmaduhu Wanusalli ‘Alaa Rasoolihil Kareem

DEDICATED TO:

Merey Ustad Maa Baap Bhai Bahen Ehley Wild o Asheerat Pey Laakhon Salaam

I would like to dedicate this effort and this book to my parents, whose upbringing and rearing has made me capable of this today.

In my childhood, my father used to take me to Huzoor Mufti e Azam e Hind ‘Alaihir Rahmah and Huzoor Mujahid e Millat ‘Alaihir Rahmah and would request these great personalities to make supplications for me. At that time, I used to wonder why my father used to take just me. Today, I realise that it is the blessings and grace of these pious personalities that has made me capable enough to complete this book. May Allah Ta’ala shower blessings and mercies on the grave of my beloved deceased father and may He forgive him through the alms of the Mercy to all the Worlds Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.

Similarly, my mother, who worries about me every moment of every day, persuades me to remain patient and steadfast in the face of adversity, and encourages me to remain busy in the service of this great religion. She stays up at nights and supplicates for my success, health and wellness. All of these things have enabled me to reach where I am today. It is true that the supplications of parents for children have the same status as the supplications of Prophets for their followers. May Allah Ta’ala keep her blessed shade above us and grant her a long, healthy life so that I am able to continue this journey in the path of Islam and, with her supplications, may I be able to brighten the flame of love of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in the hearts of people. “O my Lord! Have mercy on these both as they brought me up in my childhood, Aameen.”

Seeker of supplications, MUHAMMAD SHAKIR ALI NOORIE (Ameer- Sunni Dawat E Islami)

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ADMIRATION

By: Hazrat Allama Mufti Zubair Ahmad Barkati Misbahi (Al Jamia Ghauthia, Mumbai 3)

Nahmaduhu Wanusalli ‘Alaa Rasoolihil Kareem

From the time the world was created until the present time, there have been many political, economical, and community organisations that have been created. However, the world has experienced that they have all been unsuccessful in giving people spiritual benefit and peace of mind. Rather, the false practices and flaws of these organisations have become so widespread that the world is mired in the disgusting odour and stench of their wrongdoings. Helpless humans are crying out for their spiritual thirst to be quenched and for peace of mind and heart. They are busily searching for a strong ally and a saviour that can help them to obtain and achieve this. As they come into the lap of Islam, after suffering tremendously, they realise that this is where true peace is available; this is where our thirst will be quenched. It is becoming evidently clearer day-by-day that it is only Islam that can take the poverty-stricken world away from ruination and take it towards success and prosperity. It is only the teachings of Islam that can instil in a person the fear of Allah Ta’ala, the concept of the Hereafter, the desire and anxiety to improve personally and to help others to improve. In short, Islam gives a complete and strong code of conduct in terms of worshipping the Lord and relationships with each other. Where it gives its followers the blueprint for obtaining worldly profits, it also provides rules for how to deal with others and shows the way to obtain spiritual benefits also. The wisdom of this great religion is such that all possible doors that could be opened by tyrants were closed 1400 years ago, and it gave remedies and solutions to all problems even before they were needed. That is why we are able to proclaim to the world today that only Islam can provide help to the helpless and can provide global peace and tranquillity. The condition is that it must be enforced in the whole world. The strength,

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capacity, grandeur, beauty, majesty, might, and splendour of Islam are only visible when its rules are followed and obeyed totally; just as it is visible in certain places in the world today.

I do not need to explain the beauty, majesty, and grandeur etc. of Islam to you as you have in your hands a complete and detailed book as proof of its beauty. In it, the respected author, Hazrat Allama Maulana Shakir ‘Ali Noorie, has shed light on the Islamic system in the light of the Qur’an and Ahadith.

It is necessary in this generation and in this day and age, to strive and establish the Islamic system. It is with this glorious aim in mind that the worldwide organisation, Sunni Dawat E Islami, is constantly busy. The Ameer of this organisation, envoy and ambassador of Islam, Hazrat Allama Maulana Hafiz o Qari Muhammad Shakir ‘Ali Noorie sensed the needs of the community and the society and has dedicated his life to preaching, propagating, and guiding people towards the religion of truth. On the one hand, he is a king in the field of public speaking, and on the other, he is a master author as well. The most important point is that not only is he a warrior of the tongue, but is also a warrior in respect to his character.

I have studied him and his habits very closely and undoubtedly he is a very noble, modest, and courteous scholar who practices what he preaches. His propagation efforts extend from Asia to many countries of Europe, the Americas, Africa and beyond. He is known all over the world as a beloved and popular speaker and propagator.

May Allah Ta’ala grant him a great reward and much success in both worlds. To enable people to become well versed in Islam and to remove misconceptions, he has written Barkaat E Shariat as a medicine for the ailing world. May Allah Ta’ala accept this great book and grant it much success so that the aims of the writer are fulfilled. May He grant the writer increased knowledge and piety, and grant him more success day by day in his propagation, his voice, and his mission, and may he grant Sunni Dawat E Islami strength and solidarity, Aameen. Faqeer e Barkati, Muhammad Zubair Barkati Misbahi. 10th Zil Qa’dah 1426 A.H.

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Assalato Wasallaamo ‘Alaika Yaa Rasool Allah

Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam Wa ‘Alaa Aalika Wa As Haabika Yaa Noor Allah


AUTHOR’S PREFACE

Alhamdo Lillaahi Rabbil ‘Aalameen Wassalato Wassalaamo ‘Alaa Sayyedil Mursaleen Wa ‘Alaa Aalihee Wa Ashaabihit Tayyibeenat Taahireen…Amma Ba’ad!

All praise is for Allah Ta’ala! Through the blessings and grace of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, you currently have Barkaat e Shariat part 2 in your hands, and it is a means of great joy and happiness for me that this book is in your hands. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to act upon the teachings of the Qur’an and Ahadith through the alms of His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen. Respected readers, you are all aware that all over the world Muslims are being hunted, are facing attacks and are being left behind on three different levels; education, politics and character. This may be due to our own negligence or the planning of others. Scholars, community leaders, philosophers etc. are all busy in trying to find a way out of this desolation and misery. May Allah Ta’ala grant them all a great reward for this and may He accept their efforts, Aameen.

One of the reasons for our backward status in these affairs is that instead of safeguarding our characters and our religious teachings, we think that imitating and copying our enemies will grant us success. In reality, our success does not lie in imitating others, rather it lies in obeying the orders of the Qur’an, obeying the orders of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and strengthening our relationship with the Holy Qur’an.

Our relationship with the Qur’an and Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is very weak, and we have been trapped in a pit of despair. To create enthusiasm and a keenness to recite the Qur’an and understand it’s orders; to save ourselves from committing sins and gain success in both worlds by following the

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blessed Sunnahs of our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Barkaat e Shariat part 2 has been written, which is currently in your hands. You can appreciate that it is not an easy task to put together this book, which was written on thousands of pieces of paper. However, Allah Ta’ala’s blessings, the grace of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and the blessed glance of Ghauth e Azam, Khwaja e Ajmer and Imam Ahmad Raza Ridwanullahi Alaihim

Ajma’een makes all difficult work easy and help is received from the unseen. All praise is for Allah Ta’ala! The scholars of our organisation, and my companions are included in this unseen help, whom I must name to thank them for their help. Muhaqqiq e Masail e Jadeedah, Hazrat Allama Mufti Nizamuddin Sahib Qibla (Department Head, Al Jamia-tul-Ashrafiya), Hazrat Allama Mufti Zubair Ahmed Barkati Misbahi, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Rafiuddin Ashrafi, Maulana Mazhar Hussein ‘Aleemi, Maulana I’jaz Saheb Razvi, Maulana Abul Hasan Noorie, Maulana Syed Imranuddin Sahib, Maulana ‘Abdullah A’azmi, etc who provided tremendous help in correcting, editing and composing this book in order for it to be worthy of being in your hands.

The attendant of the masses, Al Haaj Muhammad Usman Zarodarwala and Al Haaj Muhammad Irfan Ibrahim Namakwala, undertook the responsibility of publishing this book diligently and thoroughly. They carried out their duties with great fervour and enthusiasm in order to get this book into your hands. May Allah Ta’ala grant a great reward to all the aforementioned companions according to His High Status and save them from all forms of troubles and difficulties, Aameen. All praise is for Allah Ta’ala! People benefited greatly from Barkaat e Shariat part 1, and it has been translated into four languages. People gained the benefits of Barkaat e Shariat both nationally and internationally. It is hoped that Barkaat e Shariat part 2 is just as beneficial for the masses and becomes a means to learn and gain the blessings of the Qur’an and Ahadith.

This Faqeer is well aware of his shortcomings and lack of knowledge. I was not able to fulfil the rights of the topics that are in the book, but it is a humble attempt by a weak slave of Allah Ta’ala whose aim is to propagate and teach this beautiful religion.

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Those with knowledge are humbly requested to correct any mistakes in Barkaat e Shariat part 2 so that we are guided accurately and the relevant corrections can be made in future editions.

I supplicate to Allah Ta’ala that He grants this book acceptance through the blessings and alms of His beloved bondmen, Aameen.

Dust at the feet of the Scholars and the Pious. MUHAMMAD SHAKIR ALI NOORIE (Ameer- Sunni Dawat E Islami)

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BARKAAT E SHARIAT AT A GLANCE (PART 2)

BLESSINGS OF BISMILLAAH EXCELLENCE OF THE HOLY QUR’AN BENEFITS OF BLESSINGS (DUROOD) INVITING TO GOOD/FORBIDDING FROM

EVIL KNOWLEDGE AND SCHOLARS REPENTANCE AND FORGIVENESS RESPECT AND ETIQUETTES OF THE

MOSQUE

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Assalato Wasallamo ‘Alaika Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam

Wa ‘Alaa Aalika Wa As Haabika Yaa Noor Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam

BBLLEESSSSIINNGGSS OOFF BBIISSMMIILLLLAAAAHH

EXCELLENCE OF “BISMILLAAH”

“Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” holds many qualities, blessings and benefits. We are briefly mentioning some of the qualities and beauties of “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” in the light of the Qur’an and Ahadith in order for our brothers and sisters to benefit from its blessings.

KEY OF THE QUR’AN

The Qur’an is the exalted book of Allah Ta’ala. It is full of blessings and its verses contain cures and remedies for believers. Allah Ta’ala has declared ten rewards for reciting each letter of the Qur’an. The Holy Qur’an is the cure for all problems in this world and the hereafter. The Holy Qur’an is a treasure of mercy. If we want to reap the rewards of this treasure then, first of all, we need to recite “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” with a sincere heart and then open this book of treasures and obtain untold Mercies and Bounties of the Lord.

Subhan Allah! When an exalted book like the Qur’an should not be started without “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”, then how can we obtain the benefits of other lawful things without reciting “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” at the beginning?

ALL LAWFUL THINGS SHOULD BE STARTED…

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” should be recited before commencing any lawful activity. The benefit of this is that if, Allah

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forbid, there is any defect or fault in that work, the blessings of “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” will remove that defect or fault and Allah Ta’ala’s Mercy will shade the work and He will bless the work. The reason for this is that when a slave does not forget his Lord at the beginning of any work, how can the Merciful Lord forsake His servant?

It is reported in a Hadith that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam said, “The work that is not started with Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem remains deficient and unfinished. Therefore the person who wishes his work is completed correctly should begin the work with Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem.”

MEANS OF FORGIVENESS

Hazrat ‘Ali Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu reports that a person wrote “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” very beautifully and, because of this, he was forgiven. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We recite “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” regularly, but if we recite it eloquently and beautifully just once, then this is a means of forgiveness. Therefore, whenever we recite “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”, we should always recite it in a beautiful and eloquent manner as it contains three blessed names of Allah Ta’ala. The first is the name “Allah” and the other two are His blessed qualities “Rahmaan” and “Raheem.” To recite these names with respect is to respect Allah Ta’ala, and the heart that respects Allah Ta’ala is granted closeness to Allah Ta’ala.

UNIQUE WAY TO BE FORGIVEN

Hazrat Anas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Whoever writes “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” in a beautiful manner out of respect for Allah Ta’ala, then Allah Ta’ala forgives that person.” 2

1 Durr e Manthur 2 Durr e Manthur

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It is true: “The Mercy of Allah Ta’ala is looking for a reason to forgive us”

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Just contemplate! Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is so concerned for us that he wants us to be forgiven by any possible means. However, we are so neglectful that we do not pay attention to the sayings of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.

Alas! Today, we teach our children how to read and write English, but we do not teach them to read or write the Qur’an. If our children or we could read and write Arabic, then we would act upon the aforementioned Hadith and try and obtain forgiveness. According to the saying of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, if we write “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”, Allah Ta’ala will forgive us, therefore, teach your children how to read and write Arabic.

CURE OF HAZRAT MOOSA ‘Alaihis Salaam

Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam was inflicted with an illness and was in a lot of pain. He mentioned this to Allah Ta’ala and was shown a particular type of grass in the jungle. Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam ate the grass and was cured by the Grace of Allah Ta’ala.

Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam was inflicted with this same illness a second time. He went and ate the grass again, this time however, the pain increased. Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam said to Allah Ta’ala, “Oh my Lord, when I ate the grass the first time I was cured, but this time my pain has increased.” Allah Ta’ala said, “The first time you ate it on my command and were cured. The second time you went and ate it on your own and therefore, your pain increased. Do you not know that the whole world is poisonous and fatal and the remedy for it is My Name?” 1

SAFETY FROM RUIN

It is reported that before Fir’aun (Pharaoh) claimed to be the Lord, he had a palace built and ordered that “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” be written on the door. Later, he claimed to

1 Durr e Manthur, Tafseer e Kabeer Page 167

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be the Lord and Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam was sent to him. Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam invited him to believe in and worship the one true Lord, but after seeing his infidelity and polytheism, Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam said to Allah Ta’ala, “O Lord, I am inviting him towards You time and again, but I see no goodness in him.” Allah Ta’ala replied, “O Moosa, maybe you want him destroyed. O Moosa, you are looking at his infidelity but I am looking at My Name that is on his door.”

IMPORTANT POINT

Imam Raazi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states that the moral is that one who writes “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” on his outer door is free from ruination, even if he is a non-believer. What then can the status of a Muslim be who keeps his heart alive during his lifetime with “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”? 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Many Muslims complain of troubles and worries but they do not look for the reasons behind it. How sad it is that today Muslim’s have nameplates on their front doors displaying their names, but do not display nameplates with the Name of Allah Ta’ala on it.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We should have “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” written in a beautiful manner and display it on our front doors and Insha Allah, the home and the inhabitants of the home will be safeguarded.

FREEDOM FROM DESTRUCTION

Hazrat ‘Ali Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu reports that Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “When you face calamities, recite ‘Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem…Laa Hawla Walaa Quwwata Illaa Billaahil ‘Alliyyil ‘Adheem’ as Allah Ta’ala removes many difficulties through this.”

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The biggest calamity is not shortage of wealth, but it is

1 Durr e Manthur

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to be embroiled in sins. If you wish to stay away from calamities and strife, then make it a habit to always recite “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”.

Hazrat Ibn Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Hazrat ‘Uthmaan bin ‘Affan Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu asked Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam about “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam replied, “This is one of the Names of Allah Ta’ala and the distance between ‘Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem’ and Allah Ta’ala’s Supreme Name is the same as the distance between the dark part and the white part of the eye.” 1

It is reported that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam gave his ring to Hazrat Abu Bakr Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu and told him to have “Laa Ilaaha Illal Laah” engraved on it. It was engraved with “Laa Ilaha Illal Laahu Muhammadur Rasool Allah” Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam. When Hazrat Abu Bakr Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu presented the ring to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, he saw “Laa Ilaha Illal Laahu Muhammadur Rasool Allah, Abu Bakr Siddique” engraved on it. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam asked, “What is the extra inscription for?” Hazrat Abu Bakr Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu replied, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, I did not like that your name was separated from the Name of Allah Ta’ala, but I did not tell the engraver to write ‘Abu Bakr Siddique’ on it as well.”

Suddenly Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis Salaam arrived and said “Ya m a Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, I wrote Abu Bakr’s name on the ring. The reason is that Abu Bakr did not like your blessed name to be separated from the Name of Allah Ta’ala and therefore Allah Ta’ala did not want Abu Bakr’s name to be separated from your blessed name.” Subhan Allah!!

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has said that a person who picks up any paper that has “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” written on it off the ground out of respect is written amongst the “Truthful” (Siddiqeen) people in the Sight of Allah

1 Durr e Manthur, Tafseer Abu Hatim etc

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Ta’ala and the punishment of the parents of that person is reduced. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! If a piece of paper that contains the Name of Allah Ta’ala is picked up out of respect, the status of being amongst the Truthful ones is obtained. Therefore, newspapers/magazines containing the blessed name of Allah Ta’ala should also be respected. Wherever such a paper or poster is seen, immediately pick it up and place it in a high, clean, respectful place or place it with respect in the designated place in the Mosque.

FREEDOM FROM HELLFIRE

Hazrat Ibn Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “When a teacher says to his student, “Say Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” freedom from Hellfire is written for the teacher, the student and the student’s parents.” 2 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We give our children worldly knowledge today, which will only help them in this world, not in the Hereafter. If we send our children to the Mosque for Islamic knowledge, then the blessings of the first word the child says gives us the glad tidings of freedom from the fire of Hell. Therefore, focus your children towards religious knowledge and look after your Hereafter.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We all know that the first time Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis

Salaam came to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam with the revelation from Allah Ta’ala and said, “Read (Iqra)”, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam replied, “I will not read.” However, when Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis Salaam said, “Read in the Name of your Lord (Iqraa Bismi Rabbikal Ladhee Khalaq)”, Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam started reciting. We have made our habit quite different, our priorities and mindset have changed. We have forgotten the exalted manners and ways shown to us by our


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Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. The result of this is that we have become a forgotten lot and the world has forsaken us and we are without any friend or ally.

COMPLETE ABLUTION

If a believer recites “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” before commencing ablution (wudhu), the sins committed by those parts of the body that are cleansed with water are destroyed and washed away. The parts that are not washed are cleansed of sins by the fountain of Mercy of Allah Ta’ala.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Do you see the blessings of “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”? We should ensure that we recite “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” before ablution as well as when we wash each part of the body. Insha Allah, Allah Ta’ala will remove the sins of the body through the alms of His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam.

FAITH AND CLOSENESS TO A PROPHET

When Hud Hud told Hazrat Sulaiman ‘Alaihis Salaam about the extravagance, lawlessness and infidelity of the Queen of Sheba (Bilqees), Hazrat Sulaiman ‘Alaihis Salaam wrote a letter to her. He invited her to Islam and to obey its commands. He started the letter with “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”. Queen Bilqees mentioned this letter to those in her court and Allah Ta’ala refers to this in the Qur’an when He says,

“The woman (Bilqees) said ‘O chiefs undoubtedly there has been cast a noble letter towards me. Undoubtedly, it is from Sulaiman

and it is by the name of Allah, the Most Affectionate,

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the Merciful.” 1

Queen Bilqees treated the name of Allah Ta’ala and the letter of Hazrat Sulaiman ‘Alaihis Salaam with respect and Allah Ta’ala blessed her with faith and, after entering the court of Hazrat Sulaiman ‘Alaihis Salaam, He blessed her with closeness to His Prophet.

REMEDY FOR A HEADACHE

Qaiser, the king of Rome, wrote to Hazrat Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala

‘Anhu stating that he had a constant headache and asked for a remedy. Hazrat Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu sent him a cap (topi). When the king would put that cap on, his headache would be cured. When he would take it off, the headache would start again. He was shocked at this and examined the cap and found a piece of paper in the cap with “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” written on it. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Illnesses that the greatest doctors have no cure for are cured with the name of Allah Ta’ala. If only our relationship with the Qur’an was strong, we would cure our diseases and illnesses with medicines and the words of Allah Ta’ala, which is definitely a remedy.

However, our faith is so weak that we trust the medicine of doctors, but we do not have complete faith in the words of Allah Ta'ala and that is why we do not see the effects of it. May Allah Ta’ala grant us all love of the Qur’an and guide us to constantly recite “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”, Aameen.

POISON HAS NO EFFECT

Someone said to Hazrat Khalid Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu that, “You are inviting us to Islam, but show us a sign so that we can accept Islam.” Hazrat Khalid Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu asked for some poison and a glass of poison was presented to him. He took it in his hand,

1 Surah Naml Verses 29-30 Kanzul Iman 2 Tafseer e Kabeer

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recited “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” and drank it all. With the Grace of Allah Ta’ala, he stood up in full health. Upon seeing this, the magicians said, “This is the religion of truth.” 1

Subhan Allah! What faith and belief in Allah Ta’ala our pious predecessors had! May Allah Ta’ala grant us the same level of faith and grant us their grace and blessings, Aameen.

“BISMILLAAH” IS A VEIL

Hazrat Anas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Before the children of Adam take their clothes off, if they recite “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”, then this will become a barrier/veil between their private parts and the Jinns. Similarly the devilish eyes will not be able to see their private parts.”

The point being that if “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” is a veil between humans and worldly Jinns, then it is also a given that it will be a veil between the believers and the Angels of punishment on the Day of Judgement. 2

Subhan Allah! May Allah Ta’ala guide us to recite it constantly through the alms of His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, Aameen.

I WILL SHOW YOU A VERSE…

Hazrat Buraidah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Before leaving the Mosque, I will tell you a Surah or a Verse that has not been revealed to any Prophet since Hazrat Sulaiman ‘Alaihis Salaam except to me.”

The narrator reports that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam started to leave the Mosque and he followed Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. The Prophet of Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam reached the door and had placed one foot outside the Mosque and one foot was still in the Mosque. The narrator states that he said, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, I am


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curious. What is that Verse or Surah that you mentioned earlier?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam turned his blessed face towards him and said, “What thing do you start recitation with in prayer (Salaah)?” I said, “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem.”

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “That is the thing that has been revealed only to me since Hazrat Sulaiman ‘Alaihis Salaam and not to any other Prophet.” After this Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam left the Mosque. 1

STRENGTH IN THE SEAS

Hazrat Jaabir bin ‘Abdullah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that when “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” was revealed, the clouds raced to the east, the winds stopped, the seas gained strength, the animals listened attentively, and the Heavens pelted the devils with stones. Allah Ta’ala swore oath on His Might and Majesty and said, “Whatever this is recited on will be blessed.” Subhan Allah! 2

May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” at the beginning of all lawful activities and guide us to obtain the maximum amount of blessings, Aameen.

THAT PERSON IS CURSED

Hazrat ‘Umar bin ‘Abdul ‘Aziz Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma reports that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam passed by a place where there was a piece of paper on the ground. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam said to one of his Companions, “What is written on it?” The person replied, “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem.” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Whoever did this is cursed (meaning the person who threw the paper on the ground is cursed). ‘Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem’ should be given the status and respect it deserves.” 3

1 Durr e Manthur 2 Durr e Manthur 3 Durr e Manthur, Abu Dawood

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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The aforementioned Hadith clearly shows that one who disrespects “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” is cursed. Therefore, never place any paper with “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” written on it on the ground. Rather, if you see it on the ground, pick it up and give it the respect and place that it deserves.

FINAL WILL

One person wrote “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” and asked that it be placed in his shroud when he dies. He was asked what the benefit would be and he replied, “On the Day of Judgement I will say, O Allah you sent a book and started it with ‘Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem’, therefore treat me according to the beginning of your book and forgive me.” 1

THREE THOUSAND NAMES

At the beginning of Tafseer e Kabeer, referring to “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”, it states that Allah Ta’ala has 3000 Names. Out of these, the Angels know 1000 names and 1000 names are known only by the Prophets. Out of the remaining one thousand names, three hundred are in the Old Testament (Taurah), three hundred are in the Bible (Injeel), and three hundred are in the Psalms (Zaboor). Ninety-Nine are in the Holy Qur’an and there is one Name that is only known to Allah Ta’ala. However, the meanings of all three thousand Names are found in the three Names that are found in “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” (Allah, Rahmaan and Raheem). Therefore, whoever remembers Allah Ta’ala with these three Names has remembered Him with three thousand Names. 2

FOUR RIVERS

1 Durr e Manthur 2 Tafseer e Na’eemi

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The author of “Roohul Bayaan” has quoted a Hadith in relation to “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”. When Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam went on the Ascension (Me’raj) and toured Paradise, he saw four rivers. One was of water, one of milk, one of sweet wine, and the fourth river was of honey. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam asked Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis Salaam where the rivers were coming from. Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis Salaam replied that he did not know. Another Angel said, “I will show you the spring of these four rivers.”

He took them to a place where there was a tree. Under the tree, there was building that had a lock on the door. The four springs were coming from under this building. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam asked for the door to be opened. The Angel replied, “I do not have the key for this lock, rather, you have it, and that is Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” and touched the lock and the door opened. Upon entering the building, it was seen that there were four pillars and on one pillar, it said “Bismil“, on the second it said ”Allah”, on the third it said ”Rahmaan”, and on the fourth it said “Raheem.” Water was coming from the “Meem“ in “Bismil“, milk was coming from the “Haa“ in “Allah”, sweet wine was coming from the “Meem“ in “Rahmaan“ and honey was coming from the “Meem” in “Raheem.”

A voice said, “O My Beloved, whoever recites “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” from your Ummah (Followers) will be entitled to all four of these.” 1

WHY ALL LAWFUL THINGS SHOULD BEGIN WITH “BISMILLAAH…”

1. The work that is started with goodness also ends in goodness. As soon as a child is born, the call to prayer (Adhaan) is said in its ear so that its life begins with the name of Allah Ta’ala and its life is safe and peaceful.

1 Tafseer e Na’eemi

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2. A shopkeeper does not haggle too much over the price in the first sale of the day, in order to ensure a smooth, profitable day. In the same way, it is necessary for Muslims to begin all lawful activities with “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” so that everything runs smoothly and reaches a safe conclusion.

3. A special mark or seal is placed on all government assets so that a would-be thief would be fearful of stealing that item, as stealing from the government is a form of treachery. In the same way, Muslims should start all things with “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” as this will be the sign of Allah Ta’ala, and Satan, the thief, will not be able to interfere in it. It is also reported in a Hadith that Satan becomes a partner in any lawful work that is not started with “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”. By reciting it, the work about to be undertaken is safeguarded.

4. A person is kept with that which he mentions the most. If a person always recites “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” then, Insha Allah, the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala will be with him in both worlds. A person spends all day doing lawful and unlawful things. If he begins all lawful things with “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”, then the remembrance of Allah Ta’ala will be on his lips all day long and therefore, the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala will be with him constantly. However, it is not permissible (Haraam) to recite “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” before doing anything unlawful.

5. All things in this world are dangerous and poisonous for mankind, as they make one forget about Allah Ta’ala. The remedy for this is the name of Allah Ta’ala. The person who begins all his work with “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” will not forget Allah Ta’ala at any point.

6. When a beggar goes to a rich person, he starts to praise him in order to obtain some rewards. The rich person knows that this poor person is praising him so that he may give him some food or money etc. The poor person says, “This person is very generous.” What he actually means is that ‘If I say that, then maybe he will become generous and give me some wealth or riches’. Similarly, when a person begins work, he seeks Allah

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Ta’ala’s help in that work. Instead of asking directly for help, he starts to praise Allah Ta’ala. What he actually means is that “Through the blessings of this Name, it will bring success to what I am about to begin, as You are the One that can grant success”. The Mercy of Allah Ta’ala is pleased and He grants the request of the person through the blessings of “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”. 1

It states in Tafseer e Azeezi that a friend of Allah Ta’ala (Wali Allah) left a request that “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” should be written on a paper and placed in his burial shroud. When he was asked why he replied that, “On the Day of Judgement, this will be my certificate and through this, I will beseech and seek the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala.”

NINETEEN LETTERS OF

“BISMILLAAH HIR RAHMAANIR RAHEEM”

It is reported in Tafseer e Kabeer and in other books that “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” contains nineteen (19) letters and there are also nineteen Angels of punishment in Hell. It is hoped that with each letter that is recited, its blessings will remove the punishment of each one of the nineteen Angels, one by one. The second quality is that there are twenty-four hours in a day, and the five prayers (Salaah’s) cover approximately five hours of the day, and the nineteen letters are there to shield us for the other nineteen hours. If one recites “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” constantly, his whole day will be spent in worship and his sins will be removed constantly. 2

WEIGH SCALES

The King of Madinah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has said that, “No supplication is rejected that is started with ‘Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem.’”

1 Tafseer e Na’eemi 2 Tafseer e Na’eemi

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He further stated that, “Undoubtedly, my Followers (Ummah) will rise and proceed on the Day of Judgement with ‘Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem’ on their lips and the weigh scales will become heavy in their favour. The other Ummahs will ask, “What is the deed that is so heavy on the weigh scales of the Ummah of Muhammad Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam?” The other Prophets will reply that, “The book granted to the Followers of Muhammed Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam begins with a word that contains three Names of Allah Ta’ala. If those three names are put on one side of the scale and the bad deeds of all the people are put on the other side, then the side with the three Names of Allah Ta’ala will be heavier.” 1

RECITE “BISMILLAAH…” BEFORE EATING AND ENTERING THE HOME

Reciting “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem“ before entering the home and before eating has been emphasised many times in the sayings of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. The blessed Beloved Prophet of Allah Ta’ala Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The food that does not have ‘Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem’ recited on it becomes permissible (Halaal) for Satan.” 2

In other words, if “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” is not recited, then Satan becomes a partner in eating that food. Hazrat Abu Ayyub Ansari Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that, “We were in the court of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and food was served. At the beginning there were so many blessings in the food that we had never seen blessings like it before (meaning a little food was sufficient for many). However, later on, we noticed that the blessings had disappeared. We asked Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam the reason for this and he said,” “When we started eating we all recited “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” but then one person came and joined us and did not recite

1 Ghunyat ul Taalibeen

2 Muslim Shareef

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“Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” and just started eating. Therefore, Satan also joined him in eating the food.” 1

From this Hadith, we realise that even if one person from a whole group of people forgets to recite “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” then the blessings are removed, and the forgetfulness of this one person means that Satan joins in the meal. Therefore, recite “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” in a loud voice so that others hear it and are reminded to recite it.

Hazrat Jaabir Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “When a person recites ‘Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem’ upon entering the home and before eating, Satan says to himself ‘You will not find any food here and you will not be able to live here.’ However, if ‘Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem’ is not recited upon entering the home, he says to himself, ‘You have found a home to stay in’ and if ‘Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem’ is not recited before eating then he says, ‘You will get food in this home too.’” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! If we are forgetful and do not recite “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”, then Satan enters our homes with all his might and also eats our food, which results in no blessings in our food or our homes. If we make it our habit to recite “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”, then our food will be blessed and our homes will be blessed and free from the evils of Satan and his army; and our property, wealth, possessions and sustenance will be safe.

We must make it our habit to always recite “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” so that we can obtain the maximum amount of blessings, and do not be forgetful of this otherwise Satan will be our partner.

There are countless blessings and benefits of “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”. It is not possible to mention them all here. A few have been mentioned so that our Islamic brothers and sisters

1 Sharh e Sana 2 Muslim Shareef

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can realise it’s importance and strive towards always remembering to recite it and become rich with it’s blessings and mercies. May Allah Ta’ala accept our efforts through the alms of His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and enable us all to profit from it and make it a means of forgiveness for us, Aameen.

POINTS TO NOTE REGARDING “BISMILLAAH HIR RAHMAANIR RAHEEM”

“Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” is a complete verse of the Qur’an but is not part of the chapter (Surah) that it precedes. It was revealed to separate the chapters from each other. That is why it is recited quietly in prayer (Salaah). The Hafiz that is reciting the whole Qur’an in Taraweeh prayers should recite it loudly with any one chapter during the course of the month.

Begin each chapter with “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” except for Surah Tauba. If a person is beginning recitation of the Qur’an with Surah Tauba, then he should recite “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” and then begin.

It is desirable to begin all lawful work with “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”. It is forbidden to begin unlawful work with “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”. If a person recites “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” and then drinks alcohol, steals, backbites, lies etc, then there is a danger of infidelity (Kufr). It is reported in Shaami that it is better not to recite “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” before smoking a pipe (Huqqa), or before eating any item that has a strong odour (onions, garlic etc).

It is not allowed to recite “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” when you are naked and in the bathroom.

When a person begins a Surah in Salaah, it is better (Mustahab) to recite “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem” quietly.

There will be no blessings in the lawful work that is started without reciting “Bismillaah Hir Rahmaanir Raheem”.

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When a deceased is lowered into the grave, those who are lowering the body should recite, “Bismillaahi Wa ‘Alaa Millati Rasoolil Laahi”.



Wa ‘Alaa Aalika Wa As Haabika Yaa Noor Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.

EEXXCCEELLLLEENNCCEE OOFF RREECCIITTAATTIIOONN OOFF

TTHHEE HHOOLLYY QQUURR’’AANN

Nahmaduhu Wanusalli ‘Alaa Rasoolihil Kareem…Amma Ba’ad!

Hazrat ‘Aisha Siddiqua Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anha narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The Qur’an is superior to all things except Allah Ta’ala.” The superiority of the Qur’an over other things is like Allah Ta’ala’s superiority over His creations. One who respects the Qur’an has undoubtedly respected Allah Ta’ala, and one who disrespects it has not given any significance or importance to Allah Ta’ala. In the sight of Allah Ta’ala, respecting the Qur’an is a necessity just as respecting parents is a requirement for children. The Qur’an will intercede in such a way that its intercession will be accepted, and it is such an opponent that it’s testimony and opposition will be heard. One who keeps the Qur’an at the forefront and respects it will be led into Paradise by the Qur’an, and the Qur’an will condemn one who neglects and ignores it to Hell.

The bearers of the Quran (those who learn the Qur’an and acts upon it’s teachings) are sheltered by the Mercy of Allah

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Ta’ala, and His Noor is their covering. One who has enmity for students of the Qur’an undoubtedly has enmity for Allah Ta’ala, and one who is friends with them, is also a friend of Allah Ta’ala.

Allah Ta’ala says, “O you who have the Qur’an!” He is inviting you to respect His book. Accept this invitation and He will love you immensely and will make you accepted and beloved amongst His slaves. Allah Ta’ala removes the evils of society from one who listens to the Qur’an. He removes the sufferings of the Hereafter for one who recites the Qur’an. Undoubtedly, the reward for listening to one verse of the Holy Qur’an is more than a mountain of gold. The reward for reciting one verse of the Qur’an is better than all that is under the skies. There is one chapter in the Qur’an, which is called “Exalted” by Allah Ta’ala. One who memorises it, remembers it, and acts on its teachings is called “Honourable” (Shareef). This chapter will intercede for countless people on the Day of Judgement, and this chapter is “Surah Yaseen.”

ETIQUETTES OF RECITING THE QUR’AN

The one reciting should sit respectfully with head lowered, just as one would sit in front of ones teacher, and sit facing the Qibla. The most reward is obtained by reciting the Qur’an whilst standing in prayer (Salaah) in a Mosque. To lie down and recite from memory is also rewarded, but to a lesser degree.

Allah Ta’ala says,

“Who remembers Allah standing and sitting and lying on their sides, and contemplate in the creation of Heavens and earth...” 1

1 Surah Aal e Imran Verse 191 Kanzul Iman

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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! In this verse, reciting in all three positions is praised. However, those who remember Allah Ta’ala standing are mentioned first, then those who remember Him sitting and those who remember Him lying down are mentioned at the end.

Hazrat ‘Ali Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu stated, “One who stands and recites the Qur’an in prayer receives 100 rewards for each letter. One who sits and recites receives 50 rewards for each letter recited. One who recites out of prayer (Salaah) with ablution receives 25 rewards for each letter he recites. One who recites out of prayer without ablution receives 10 rewards for each letter recited. Reciting whilst looking at the Qur’an is better than reciting it off by heart from memory. This is because to hold the Qur’an, to kiss it, and to look at it are all rewarded as well. The benefits of reciting the Qur’an whilst looking at it will be mentioned in due course but two narrations are being mentioned here.

STATUS ELEVATED TWO THOUSAND LEVELS

Tibraani has mentioned in “Mu’azzam” and Baihiqi in “Sha’b ul Iman” that Hazrat Awas Thaqfi Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrated that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “To recite the Qur’an from memory raises the recitor’s status by 1000 levels. To recite it by looking at it raises the status by 2000 levels.”

In another Hadith, it states that, “Looking at and reciting the Qur’an holds the same superiority over reciting it from memory as compulsory (Fardh) acts have over voluntary (Nafl) acts.

HOW MUCH SHOULD BE RECITED?

The various Companions and our pious predecessors recited the Qur’an at different speeds and completed recitation of the Qur’an in different time frames. Some would recite the whole Qur’an in one day, some would recite two Qur’ans in a day and some would recite three Qur’ans in a single day. Some others would take one month to complete the whole Qur’an. However, for the general

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public and the masses, to complete it in less than three days is against the etiquettes of reciting the Holy Qur’an. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “One who finishes the Qur’an in less than three days has not understood it.”

This Hadith means that one who recites the Qur’an in less than three days will not understand it. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam has mentioned the position of most people. However, there are those special servants of Allah Ta’ala, Friends of Allah Ta’ala, whose status is exalted; they would complete the recitation of the Qur’an in a shorter time frame in such a way that not only would they recite it correctly, but would understand it’s meaning completely; and would remember it in their hearts as well. It is reported that Imam e Azam Abu Hanifa Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu used to recite the whole Qur’an in one night and would solve complex religious issues based on what he had recited; this is one of his miracles. Some would complete it in ten days and some would complete it in seven days. This was the habit and practice of most of the Companions and the pious predecessors.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Try to complete the Holy Qur’an once a week and Insha Allah, your heart will be peaceful and full of tranquillity.

DIVIDING INTO SECTIONS AND RECITING

One who is able to complete the Qur’an in one week should divide it into seven sections. This is the way (Sunnah) of the Companions of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. It is reported that Hazrat ‘Uthmaan Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu would begin the Qur’an on Friday (the night before Friday) and recite from the beginning to Surah Maaidah. On Saturday, he would recite from Surah An’aam to Surah Hud. On Sunday, he would recite from Surah Yusuf to Surah Maryam. Monday, from Surah Taa-Haa to Surah Qasas would be recited. On Tuesday, he would recite from Surah ‘Ankabut to Surah Su’aad. On Wednesday, from Surah Zumar to Surah Rahmaan was recited. He would complete the Qur’an on Thursday by reciting from Surah Waaqiyaat to Surah Naas.

CRYING DURING RECITATION

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It is better (Mustahab) to cry whilst reciting the Holy Qur’an. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Recite the Qur’an and cry whilst you are reciting. If you are not able to cry then look as though you are crying.” 1


“And they fall down on their faces weeping“ 2

Bukhari and Muslim narrate that Hazrat Ibn Mas’ood Radiallaho

Ta’ala ‘Anhu was reciting the Qur’an in the court of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s blessed eyes were full of tears. 3

May Allah Ta’ala, through the alms of His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, give us the guidance to shed tears whilst reciting the blessed Qur’an, Aameen.

RESPECTING AND OBEYING THE COMMANDS OF THE VERSES

When you recite a verse of prostration (Ayah e Sajdah), you must prostrate. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “When the son of Adam recites a verse of prostration and prostrates, Satan cries and runs away, and screams, ‘I am ruined.’”

In one other narration, it states that he (Satan) says, “I am ruined; the son of Adam was ordered to prostrate, he obeyed and obtained Paradise. I was ordered to prostrate, I refused, and my share is the fire of Hell.” 4

FOURTEEN VERSES OF PROSTRATION

The following chapters contain verses of prostration. There are fourteen (14) verses of prostration in the Holy Qur’an:

1 Ibn Majah

2 Surah Bani Israel Verse 109 Kanzul Iman

3 Bukhari & Muslim 4 Al Targheeb wal Tarheeb

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1. A’raaf. 2. Ra’ad. 3. Nahl. 4. Bani Israel. 5. Maryam. 6. Hajj. 7. Furqan. 8. Naml. 9. Sajdah. 10. Su’aad. 11. Haa-Meem Sajdah. 12. Najm. 13. Inshiqaaq. 14. ‘Alaq

If you recite or hear a verse of prostration, you should prostrate immediately. If, for some reason, you are not able to prostrate at that time, then recite the following verse and perform the prostration as soon as you are able to: “Sami’naa Wa Ata’naa Ghufraa-naka Rabbana Wa Ilaykal Maseer.”

HOW SHOULD THE PROSTRATIONS

BE PERFORMED?

This is the prostration that becomes necessary upon reciting or hearing a verse of prostration. The Sunnah way to perform it is to stand and say “Allahu Akbar” as you go into prostration. Recite “Subhana Rabbiyal A’laa” at least three (3) times and then say “Allahu Akbar” and stand.

WHEN SHOULD THE PROSTRATIONS BE PERFORMED?

The conditions and rules for performing a prostration are the same as performing Salaah except for “Takbeer e Tahreema” (the first ‘Allahu Akbar’ when we raise our hands and fold them). In other words, you must be clean, face the Qibla, make intention, cover the parts of the body that must be covered and it must be a time when it is allowed to perform prayer.

Point: If a verse of prostration is recited in prayer (Salaah), then it is necessary (Wajib) to perform the prostration immediately whilst performing prayer.

WHEN SHOULD PROSTRATIONS NOT BE PERFORMED?

It is forbidden to perform prostration at sunrise, sunset and at mid-day when the sun is directly overhead. If someone recites a

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verse of prostration at these times, they should wait until this time has passed before performing the prostration.

BEGINNING RECITATION

Begin recitation with “A’oodhu Billaahi Minash Shaytaanir Rajeem“ (Ta’oodh), and it is better (Mustahab) to follow that with “Bismillaahir Rahmaanir Raheem“ (Tasmiyah).

WHEN SHOULD TA’OODH BE RECITED?

“A’oodhu Billaahi Minash Shaytaanir Rajeem“ Translation: “Allah’s refuge I seek from Satan, the rejected one.” We are ordered to recite this before beginning the recitation of the Holy Quran.

Allah Ta’ala says in the Holy Qur’an,

“Then when you recite Quran, ask refuge of Allah from the devil (Satan) the rejected one.” 1

We are ordered to recite “A’oodhu Billaahi Minash Shaytaanir Rajeem“ before beginning recitation as it grants us the protection of Allah Ta’ala and frees us from the deceptions of Satan. Those people who suffer from the evil whisperings of Satan should recite it constantly.

EXCELLENCE OF TA’OODH

Hazrat Imam Hussein Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu states that if a person recites, “‘A’oodhu Billaahi Minash Shaytaanir Rajeem” with

1 Surah Nahl Verse 98 Kanzul Iman

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presence of mind and heart, Allah Ta’ala places three hundred veils between the recitor and Satan.” 1

It is stated in “Bustanul Tafasir” that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam said, “If a person recites ‘A’oodhu Billaahi Minash Shaytaanir Rajeem’ ten times daily, Allah Ta’ala appoints an Angel who protects that person from Satan.” 2

In another Hadith, it is reported that a person was very angry and he was foaming at the mouth. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “If this person recites ‘A’oodhu Billaahi Minash Shaytaanir Rajeem’ then this anger will leave him.”

POINTS TO NOTE REGARDING TA’OODH

It is Sunnah to recite Ta’oodh before beginning recitation.

When a student recites the Qur’an or any religious book to his teacher, it is Sunnah to recite “A’oodhu Billaahi Minash Shaytaanir Rajeem“ quietly.

It is Sunnah in prayer (Salaah) for the Imam, followers and also if you are praying alone to recite “A’oodhu Billaahi Minash Shaytaanir Rajeem“ quietly after reciting the “Thana”. 3

Because Satan is the enemy of Allah Ta’ala, enemy of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and the enemy of all those with faith, it should be our habit to always show our disgust towards him.

The Qur’an does not refer to the name Azaazeel (name of Satan). It refers to him as “Satan”, “accursed”, and “rejected” etc. This shows that to openly scorn and insult the enemies of Allah Ta’ala and Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is according to the Qur’an.



3 Shaami

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HOW SHOULD RECITATION BE FINISHED?

When you finish reciting you should say the following words, “Sada-qallaahu Wa Ballaga Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Allaahum-man Fa’naa Bihee Wa Baarik Lanaa Feeh. Alhamdu Lillaahi Rabbil ‘Aalameen. Wa Astaghfirul Laahul Hayyul Qayyoom.” Translation: “Allah Ta’ala has said the truth. And Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has preached it. (Meaning he gave it to us safely and perfectly). O Allah! Give us profit from it and place blessings in it for us. All praise and glory is for Allah Ta’ala who is the Lord of all the worlds and I seek forgiveness from Allah Ta’ala, the Living, and Sustainer of all.”

RECITING IN PRAYER (SALAAH)

It is compulsory (Waajib) to recite loud enough so that you are able to hear the recitation with your own ears. It is also necessary to recite in this manner in the silent prayers (Zuhr, ‘Asr). If it is not recited in such a manner, then the prayer (Salaah) will not count. In Fajr, Maghrib and ‘Isha prayers, it is better to recite in such a manner that others can hear the recitation also. If these prayers are being prayed in congregation (Jama’at), then it is necessary (Waajib) for the Imam to recite in such a manner that at least some of the people in the first row are able to hear his recitation.

RECITE IN A BEAUTIFUL VOICE

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has stated, “Decorate the Qur’an with beautiful voices.” It is reported that one night Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam was waiting for Hazrat ‘Aisha Siddiqua Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anha. She arrived late and Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam asked her the reason for being late. The Mother of all believers Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anha replied, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, I was listening to someone reciting the Qur’an. I have not heard anyone recite it better.” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam got up, and went and listened to the recitation for a long time. When he returned, he said, “This is

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Saalim, the master of Abu Huzaifa. All glory and praise is for Allah Ta’ala who created such people in my Ummah.”

One time, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam heard the recitation of Hazrat Moosa Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu and remarked, “He has been given a share in the beautiful voices given to the people of David (Dawood). 1

When Hazrat Moosa Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu heard about this praise, he came to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and said, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, If I knew that you were listening, I would have recited it more beautifully in an even better voice.” 2

WARNING FOR UNDERESTIMATING THE REWARD

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “One who recites the Qur’an and then thinks that someone else received more reward than him, such a person has definitely taken lightly something that has been made very exalted by Allah Ta’ala.” 3

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! There is so much reward for recitation of the Qur’an as the aforementioned Hadith shows, and this Hadith strictly warns people not to think that the recitation of the Qur’an is of no value or reward. The fact is that Allah Ta’ala will give a great reward for reciting the Qur’an. May Allah Ta’ala protect us from thinking that the recitation of the Qur’an is of little value and may He grant us the intercession of the Holy Qur’an, Aameen.

REWARD OF THE QUR’AN

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The Protector of the Qur’an will come on the Day of Judgement and the Qur’an will say, ‘O Lord, decorate him.’ Therefore, he will have a crown of respect and grandeur placed on his head. The Qur’an will say again, ‘O

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Allah! Grant him more.’ He will be clothed in the clothing of honour and dignity. Then the Qur’an will say, ‘O Lord, be pleased with him.’ The Protector of the Qur’an will be told, ‘Recite the Qur’an and ascend through the levels of Paradise.’ He will begin to recite and with each verse that he recites, he will rise higher and higher.” 1

On the Day of Judgement, the Protector of the Qur’an, (meaning one who respects the Qur’an, recites it, studies it, understands and obeys it’s meanings and commands), will be blessed with the intercession of the Qur’an and will have a crown and clothing of honour, dignity and respect. They will be told to climb to the highest level of Paradise. In another narration, it states that their status will be raised by one level with each verse that they recite.

DIFFERENCE IN THE RECITATION OF A BELIEVER & A HYPOCRITE

Hazrat Abu Moosa Ash’ari Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The believer who recites the Qur’an is like an “Utarajjah”, whose smell is pure and beautiful and its taste is delicious. The believer who does not recite the Qur’an is like a date, which has no smell but tastes very sweet. The hypocrite who recites the Qur’an is like a flower that smells nice but tastes bitter. The hypocrite who does not recite the Qur’an is like a wild flower that has no smell and tastes bitter.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Utarajjah is a very beautiful and unique fruit. The Hadith refers to the believer who recites the Qur’an as similar to an Utarrajjah fruit. Allama ‘Ainee Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states that this is the best and the most unique fruit of all. There are many reasons for this: it is a collection of all that is liked and cherished; it has many qualities, for example, it is big and beautiful; it is soft and tender to touch. Its colour is such that one is filled with joy just by looking at it. Even before biting it, one is eager to taste it; it

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fills the eater’s appetite, satisfies him, helps in the digestion, and has a beautiful taste and smell. It is beautiful and soothing to four of the five senses: seeing, tasting, touching, and smelling. There are many other qualities that can be found in books of medicines and cures. 1

GLAD TIDINGS FOR THE UMMAH

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Without doubt, 1000 years before creating the Heavens and the earth, Allah Ta’ala recited Surah Ta’Ha and Surah Yaseen. When the Angels heard it, they said, ‘Glad tidings to the Ummah that will receive the Qur’an. May those hearts that memorise the Qur’an be beautiful and protected. Good news to those tongues that will recite the words of the Qur’an.’” 2

Hazrat Allama Mulla ‘Ali Qari Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes that “Allah Ta’ala reciting the Qur’an“ means that He made it evident and declared the reward for it. This Hadith not only proves the excellence of the Qur’an, but also proves the superiority of the followers of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. One thousand years before the earth was created, the Angels congratulated the Ummah that was going to receive the Qur’an, gave glad tidings to those who memorise it, and gave good news to the tongues that recite it.

Subhan Allah! Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has bestowed countless blessings and favours on us, and through him, Angels and the Heavenly creations are envious of this Ummah.

CROWN OF LIGHT

Hazrat Buraidah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “If one recites the Qur’an, acquires its knowledge, and acts upon its orders, that person’s parents will have a crown of light placed upon their heads. The brightness of

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the crown will be like the sun. The parents will be dressed in clothing of unimaginable value. They will ask why they are being treated with such great respect and they will be told, ‘It is due to your child reciting the Qur’an.’” 1

Those parents are very fortunate whose children recite the Qur’an and act upon its teachings and their reward will be an exalted position on the Day of Judgement.

BRIGHT FULL MOON

Tibrani has reported from Hazrat Anas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who teaches his child the Qur’an and he ponders and reflects on it, will have all his previous and future sins forgiven. Allah Ta’ala will raise the person who teaches his child about the verses of the Qur’an like the full moon on the Day of Judgement. The child will be told to recite the Qur’an, and with each verse the parent’s status will be raised and will keep rising as long as the child keeps reciting.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The parents of those children who learn the Qur’an and act upon its teachings will have such a bright crown placed on their heads that if it was to be placed on the earth, we would not be able to withstand its brightness. They will be dressed in clothing that is more expensive than the world and everything in it, and all their sins will be forgiven. They will be raised like the full moon and their rank will be raised with each verse that the child recites.

…. BUT…???

There is another side to the coin that needs to be mentioned here and looked at. Those who deny their children this exalted education and knowledge of the Qur’an will miss out on all the above-mentioned favours. However, that is not all. Some people remove their children from religious education and focus their

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attention in a different direction in order to obtain worldly wealth or worldly qualifications. They are denying themselves this exalted position and are also responsible for their children missing out on this honour.

SOMETHING TO PONDER!

It is stated in Bukhari Shareef, “You are all responsible, and one who has responsibilities, will be questioned about them.” Each person is responsible for the education and reformation of their children. A person who turns his child towards religious education has fulfilled his responsibility, as the child will also be reformed through this education.

However, those parents who send their child/children in the wrong direction, and away from religious education, will also have to pay for the consequences of their actions, even though the child may appear to be very successful and highly respected in the sight of people. If Islamic teaching and thinking is not present in them, then the parents, as well as the child, will be held accountable and will have to pay the price for this.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The above Hadith reminds us to take stock and check if we are sending our children down the path of limited success, or are we giving them eternal happiness?

COMPANION OF THE GRAVE

It is reported in “Bazaaz” that when a recitor of the Qur’an dies and his family is busy in arranging the bathing and shrouding of the body, the Qur’an comes to the deceased in a beautiful form. It stays by the head of the deceased until they are wrapped in their burial shroud. Once in the burial shroud, the Qur’an moves to the chest and stays there until the deceased is lowered into the grave. Once lowered into the grave, soil is put on the grave and the family and friends of the deceased leave.

Then the Angels come to question the deceased and wake him up. At that time, the Qur’an becomes a barrier between the Angels and the deceased. The Angel’s say, “Move, so that we can question him.” The Qur’an replies, “By Allah! That is not possible.

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Undoubtedly, this is my friend and companion and I cannot forsake him and leave him now; I will protect him fully. If you have been ordered to do something, then go and act upon that and leave from here because I will not leave his side until I get him entered into Paradise.” Then the Qur’an looks at the deceased and says, “I am the Qur’an that you used to recite audibly and silently.” 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! One who respects and fulfils the rights of the Qur’an, will find the Qur’an a great companion, friend, and intercessor. However, there is another scenario also. The Qur’an will wage war on one who does not recite the Qur’an, does not study it, and does not act upon it, Allahu Akbar!

It states in a Hadith: “The Qur’an will testify on your behalf, or the Qur’an will testify against you.” 2 Whosoever does not fulfil the rights of the Qur’an, the Qur’an will wage war on him in front of Allah Ta’ala. May Allah Ta’ala protect us, Aameen.

INTERCESSION WILL BE ACCEPTED

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The fasts and the Qur’an will intercede for a person. The fasts will say, ‘O Lord, I kept him from food and drink during the day, accept my intercession for him.’ The Qur’an will say, ‘O my Lord, I kept him away from sleep during the night so accept my intercession for him.’ The intercession of both will be accepted.” 3

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The Day of Judgement will be a frightening time. We cannot fully comprehend how awful it will be. Everyone will be worried for themselves; no one will help anybody else. In that delicate situation, the intercession of two worships will be accepted for

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two kinds of people; the fast will intercede for those who fast and the Qur’an will intercede for those who recite the Qur’an.

STILL OF THE NIGHT

The Court of Allah Ta’ala is unlike any court or kingdom in this world. The supreme authority and supreme ruler will be Allah Ta’ala alone on that day; on that day no one will be able to breathe without His permission. In that state, the fast will plead on behalf of one who fasts and say, “O Lord, he patiently and calmly stayed away from food and drink and was very punctual, and therefore My Lord, forgive him.” The fast will ensure that the person becomes deserving of Paradise. Similarly, the Qur’an will plead for one who recites the Qur’an and say, “I made the sweet sleep of night time unlawful for him and he would stay up at night and remain busy reciting me. Therefore, forgive him and grant him Jannat-ul-Firdaus.”

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said that “The intercession of both will be accepted and those people will enter Paradise.” This Hadith mentions recitation done during the night, but that does not mean that the Qur’an will only intercede on behalf of those who recite during the night. Those that recite during the day will also be blessed with intercession. This Hadith does, however, emphasise staying up at night and reciting the Qur’an.

LOOKING AT THE QUR’AN AND RECITING…

Hazrat ‘Uthmaan bin ‘Abdullah bin Awas Thaqfi Radiallaho Ta’ala

‘Anhuma reports on the authority of his grandfather that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Reciting the Qur’an without looking at it increases a person’s status by 1000 grade levels, and reciting it and looking at the Qur’an simultaneously, increases the person’s status by 2000 grade levels.” 1

There is twice as much reward for reciting the Qur’an whilst looking at it, as opposed to just reciting it from memory. Allama Taibee says that the reason for that is that to hold the

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Qur’an, to look at it, to touch and kiss it, to contemplate its verses and meanings are all also rewarded and therefore, the reward for looking at and reciting the Qur’an is double. 1

TREATMENT FOR HEARTS

Hazrat Ibn ‘Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Undoubtedly, hearts get rusted just as iron gets rusty when water falls on it.” He was asked what would clean the rust off the hearts. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam said, “Remembering death often and reciting the Holy Qur’an.” 2

The Qur’an says,

“Nothing, but rather their earnings have rusted their hearts.“ 3

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! When the heart gives into desires and commits all kinds of sins and forgets Allah Ta’ala, and disregards its reason for being alive; it progressively gets rustier. This rust becomes the root for all the ills and failures of the body. Just as Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam has stated, “There is one part of the body; if that is healthy, the whole body is healthy. Listen! That part of the body is the heart.”

At another point, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Whenever a believer commits a sin, a black dot appears on his heart. If he turns towards Allah Ta’ala and repents sincerely, then his heart becomes clean again. If he commits more sins then the dot becomes bigger and bigger with each sin, so much so that his

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heart is completely covered by the dot. This is what Allah Ta’ala calls ‘Ra’an’ (Rust) in the Qur’an.” 1

The Companions asked for the remedy for this rust, as they knew that if the heart gets rusted, how would it be able to receive and accept the light and brilliance of Allah Ta’ala? They asked, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam! What is the cure and how do we clean these rusted hearts?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Remember death constantly.” My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved

devotees! Death is a silent message. It gives a lesson in reform and goodness every step of the way. It urges you to be cautious and stops you from following your desires and committing evil actions.

In another famous Hadith, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam said, “Remember the thing that destroys desires, and that is death.” 2


“He, Who has created death and life that He might test you, as to whose work is excellent amongst you.” 3

One of the commentaries of this verse states that it means, “Which of you remembers death the most”, meaning that Allah Ta’ala created life and death to test which of us remembers death the most by doing good deeds and staying away from evil.

CLEANLINESS OF THE HEART

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said the second thing that is needed to clean the heart is recitation of the Qur’an. There is no

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doubt that, whereas death is a silent message, the Qur’an is a verbal message. Each letter of the Qur’an teaches us to stay on the straight path and to stay away from the wrong path. Time and again it orders us to do good and stay away from evil.

At another point Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “I have given you two things that prevent you from bad deeds, and one is silent, the other verbal. The silent one is death and the verbal one is the Qur’an.” Death is quiet and the Qur’an teaches us with its words and sentences; both of these help to remove the rust from our hearts and allow the heart to be clean and pure. These are the two things that can turn a person’s heart into a shining mirror so that it is able to receive and capture the light and truth from Allah Ta’ala.

INTERVENTION WILL BE ACCEPTED

Hazrat Jaabir Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The Qur’an will intercede and its intercession will be accepted. It will also be an opponent and its opposition will be listened to and accepted. It will take the person who makes the Qur’an his guide into Paradise, and it will send the person who discards it into the fire of Hell.” 1

The Qur’an will intercede for those who fulfil the rights of the Qur’an, respects it, acts upon it teachings in their lives and makes it their guide and teacher. It will not only intercede, but will intercede in such a manner that the person will be entered into Paradise. The person who ignores the Qur’an, does not respect or recite it, and does not follow its orders and commands; such a person will not be ignored and left alone. That person will be sent to Hell as we have previously seen that the Qur’an will declare war and testify against that person.

It is stated in a Hadith that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said that, “If a person has been blessed with the gift of memorising the Qur’an, and he thinks that someone else has something better

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than him, then such a person has formed the wrong opinion about the best gift from Allah Ta’ala.”

EARTH NOT ABLE TO EAT

It is reported in a Hadith that when a Hafiz e Qur’an (one who has memorised the Qur’an) passes away, Allah Ta’ala orders the earth not to eat his body. The earth says, “O Lord! How can I eat him when his heart contains Your words?” 1

In yet another Hadith it states that, “Those who memorise the Qur’an (Hafiz e Qur’an) are friends of Allah Ta’ala. Whoever opposes them, opposes Allah Ta’ala and whoever befriends them, has befriended Allah Ta’ala.” 2

PERFUMED FRAGRANCE

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “O People! Obtain knowledge of the Qur’an and recite it, because the person who recites it, learns it, and respects its orders, is like a bag that is full of perfume (Musk), and its beautiful fragrance spreads in all directions. One who obtains the knowledge, knows it, but then ignores it and is neglectful of its commands is like a bag of perfume that has been sealed shut.” 3

A person who learns the Qur’an and then recites it, and recites it also in the nightly (‘Isha) and pre-dawn (Tahajjud) prayers, is described as a bag full of perfume with a delightful fragrance. A person who learns it, has it in his heart but, out of laziness, sleeps all night, is referred to as a bag full of fragrance that has been sealed shut.

RECITING IN A BEAUTIFUL VOICE

Hazrat Fadhala bin Abeed Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Definitely, Allah Ta’ala

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listens to one who recites the Qur’an in a beautiful voice with more attention and enthusiasm than a master who is listening to his hand maid singing.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! A master can listen to lawful songs from his handmaid, because man’s nature is to listen to nice voices and tones. That is why the master would focus all his attention on the singer and listen very attentively. The above Hadith states that Allah Ta’ala listens to the recitation done in a beautiful voice and manner with much more attention and enthusiasm that a master who is listening to his handmaid singing.

MEASURING STICK FOR A GOOD VOICE

Hazrat Jaabir Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Undoubtedly, the best recitor of the Qur’an is one who you hear and his voice makes you think that he fears Allah Ta’ala.” 2

The true indication of a good voice and beautiful recitation is the fact that the recitor’s voice has fear of Allah Ta’ala and expresses awe and anxiety at the Might of Allah Ta’ala. Hazrat Ibn Taawas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates from his father that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam was asked who the best recitor of the Qur’an was. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who when you hear him reciting, you think that he fears Allah Ta’ala.”

Imam Ghazali Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih has narrated the following Hadith in “Ihya ul ‘Uloom”, “You can not listen to a better recitor of the Qur’an than one who fears Allah Ta’ala.” 3

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Daarmi reports that Hazrat Taawas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam was asked, “Who is the best recitor of the Qur’an in terms of pronunciation, clarity and beauty?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person whom you hear and you think that he fears Allah Ta’ala.”

SIGNS OF SORROW/SADNESS

Hazrat Sa’ad bin Abi Waqas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu states that he heard Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam say, “Definitely, the Qur’an was revealed with sadness, therefore, when you recite the Qur’an, cry if you can. If you cannot cry, then at least attempt to cry. And recite it in a nice voice because one who does not recite it in a nice voice is not from amongst us.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The Qur’an should be recited in such a way that the voice displays pain, sadness, and fear and the recitor should cry. If the recitor cannot cry then at least he should attempt to cry.

SHOULD HAVE TEARS IN EYES

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam was on the pulpit (mimbar) and said to him, “Recite the Qur’an to me. I said, ‘Should I recite the Qur’an to you when the Qur’an was revealed to you?’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘I want to hear it from someone else.’ Then I began reciting Surah Nisa and I reached the verse that states “Then how shall it be, when We bring up a witness from every nation, and O Beloved Muhammad! We will bring you as a witness and a guardian against all those.“

At that point Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘That is sufficient.’ When I raised my eyes and looked at Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, I saw that Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam’s blessed eyes were full of tears.” 2

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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! When Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam told Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu to recite the Qur’an, he was hesitant at first as the Qur’an was revealed to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. The Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam is the one that can accurately fulfil the rights of recitation of the Qur’an. Indeed, the words of wisdom are much sweeter when they resonate from the tongue of the physician. And the words to the Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam sound even more beautiful from the blessed mouth of the Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam.

This is why the Companions and our pious predecessors habits were to read the Qur’an and Ahadith themselves and then listen to it from their students in order for the students to be able to learn it quicker. However, at that time, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam’s desire was to listen to the Qur’an, and that is why he said, “I want to hear it from someone else.” There can be many reasons for this. One of the reasons could be that to listen to the Qur’an being recited would become a Sunnah, and in that way, both reciting and listening to the Qur’an would become worship.

This is the reason why some commentators state that to listen to the Qur’an is better than reciting it. Allama Mulla ‘Ali Qari Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih says that is when it is listened to attentively, with the intention of teaching and guiding others. This is why teachers implemented the practice of listening to the Qur’an and Ahadith from their students. 1

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu states, “To obey the order, I started reciting Surah Nisa.” What must the atmosphere have been like when he got to the verse “Then how shall it be, when We bring up a witness from every nation, and O Beloved Muhammad! We will bring you as a witness and a guardian against all those."? When the previous Prophets will testify to the infidelity, idol worship, and false beliefs of their followers in the court of Allah Ta’ala, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam will testify to the 1 Mirqah

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truthfulness of the other Prophets’ testimonies. Another commentary of this verse is that on the Day of Judgement, each Prophet will testify for or against their Ummah. When the Ummah of Muhammad Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam testifies against these previous Ummahs, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam will testify in support of his Ummah and will verify the testimony given by his followers (Ummatis). 1

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu states that when he got to the verse mentioned above, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s eyes were full of tears and he said, “That is sufficient.” The reason for this was that Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam was pondering the verse and his eyes were out of control.

“My state is such that I can not listen to the Qur’an.” When Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu looked at Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, he saw that he was crying. Allahu Akbar! My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We should also cry with the intention of decorating ourselves with this blessed Sunnah; if we are unable to cry, then we should recite as though we are crying, as Allah Ta’ala rewards this.

EMPTY HOUSE

Hazrat Ibn ‘Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Undoubtedly, the person who has no part of the Qur’an in his heart is like an empty house.” 2

The heart that is void of the Qur’an is a place of darkness. Hazrat Mulla ‘Ali Qari Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih explains this by saying that a heart is populated by faith, reciting the Qur’an, recognising falsehood, having correct beliefs, and pondering on the blessings of Allah Ta’ala. When these things are not found in a heart, the heart will be in darkness. 3

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The devils and the Jinn’s inhabit the homes that are not populated by humans. The Hadith is pointing out and making us aware that those hearts that do not contain the Qur’an become a breeding ground for the devil and his accomplices. The heart that contains the Qur’an becomes decorated and wealthy, based on what it has inside it. And when a heart does not testify, does not have true faith in Allah Ta’ala, does not ponder on the blessings of Allah Ta’ala and does not have love for Him, then that heart is free of any wealth or decorations and is like an empty house.

CALAMITIES REMOVED

Similarly, it states in another Hadith that the house that does not contain the Qur’an is the emptiest house. Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Undoubtedly, the emptiest house is the house which has no part of the book of Allah Ta’ala.” The house that does not contain the Qur’an and does not have any other recitation of the Qur’an is the emptiest house in the world. Imam Ghazali Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih quotes the words of Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu, “The house in which the Qur’an is recited becomes more spacious and its blessings increase, Angels visit that house and Satan leaves that home. That home in which the Qur’an is not recited becomes smaller for the homeowner, the blessings are reduced, the Angels leave the house and Satan enters it.” 1

RESULT OF CARELESSNESS

Hazrat Abu Moosa Ash’ari Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Keep your ties strong with the Qur’an and keep reciting it. I swear by the Lord who controls my life, the Qur’an will escape quicker than camels that are tied to trees.” 2

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The Qur’an is very easily forgotten. This is explained with an example that when camels are tied to a tree, they are tied with their feet. If they have even a little space, they will not hesitate in escaping and will escape very quickly. Similarly, the Qur’an leaves the mind very quickly. That is why we are ordered to have a strong and constant relationship with it. Keep reciting it and keep practising it, always be close to it and keep a constant link to it; where the link breaks, it will escape the mind.

A Hafiz of the Qur’an can understand this Hadith very easily, and we see it also. Those Huffaz who constantly recite the Qur’an still have to practice very hard before Ramadhan in order to be in a position to lead Taraweeh prayers. After all, why does the Qur’an leave the mind in this way?

EXCELLENCE OF SURAH FATIHAH

It is reported in Bukhari Shareef on the authority of Hazrat Abu Sa’eed bin Ma’li Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu, who states that “Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam called me but I did not reply. (When I had finished my prayers) I presented myself and said, ‘Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, I was performing prayers (Salaah)’. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘Has Allah Ta’ala not said that ‘Come to Allah and His Prophet when they call you?’ He took hold of my hand and stated that, ‘Before I leave the Mosque, I will tell you which the greatest chapter (Surah) of the Qur’an is.’

When Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam started to leave the Mosque, I said, ‘You were going to teach us about the greatest chapter of the Qur’an before leaving.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam said, ‘It is Alhamdu Lillaahi Rabbil ‘Aalameen – Sab’a Mathaani (another name for Surah Fatihah). The Qur’an that I have received is glorious.’”

Tirmidhi reports on the authority of Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu that, “Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam asked Hazrat Abu bin Ka’ab Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu, ‘How do you recite in prayer (Salaah)?’ Hazrat Abu bin Ka’ab Radiallaho Ta’ala

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‘Anhu recited Surah Fatihah and the Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam said, ‘I swear by the Lord in whose control is my life, there is no chapter like this in the Taurah (Old Testament), in the Injeel (Bible), in the Zaboor (Psalms), or in the rest of the Qur’an – it is Sab’a Mathaani. The Qur’an that I have received is glorious.’”

Surah Fatihah is the cure for all illnesses.1 It is reported in Sahih Muslim on the authority of Hazrat Ibn ‘Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala

‘Anhuma that, “Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis Salaam was in the court of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and a sound was heard from above. He raised his head and said, ‘This Door of Heaven has been opened for the first time today; it has never been opened before today.’ An Angel descended and Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis Salaam said, ‘This Angel has never come down to earth before today.’ The Angel greeted Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and said, ‘I have come with glad tidings for you, and it is that you have been granted two lights and no one has been granted these before you. Those two lights are Surah Fatihah and the ending of Surah Baqara. Whatever is asked for, after reciting these, will be given to the recitor.’”

EXCELLENCE OF SURAH BAQARA

It is reported in Sahih Muslim, Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho

Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Do not turn your homes into graves, Satan runs away from those houses where Surah Baqara is recited.”

Another Hadith in Muslim Shareef reports Hazrat Abu Amamah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrating that he heard Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam say, “Recite the Qur’an as it will be an intercessor for its companions on the Day of Judgement. Recite the two luminous chapters, Surah Baqara and Surah Aal e Imran. On the Day of Judgement these two will come like two clouds, or a canopy, or like two groups of birds ready for battle and will argue on behalf of their companions (those who recite those chapters). In other words, they will intercede on behalf of those who recite

1 Daarmi, Baihiqi

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them. Recite Surah Baqara as holding onto it is blessings and leaving it is grief. The misguided ones do not have the capacity to hold onto it.”

EXCELLENCE OF AYAT UL KURSI

Sahih Muslim reports that Hazrat Abu bin Ka’ab Radiallaho Ta’ala

‘Anhu narrated that, “Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘O Abul Manthar (that was the name with which he was referred to), which is the greatest verse that you have of the Qur’an?’ I replied, ‘Allah Ta’ala and His Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam know best.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘O Abul Manthar which is the greatest verse that you have of the Qur’an?’ I replied, ‘Allaahu Laa Ilaaha Ilaa Huwal Hayyul Qayyoom.’ 1 Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam placed his hand on my heart and said, ‘O Abul Manthar, congratulations on your knowledge.’”

Imam Bukhari Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih reports in Sahih Bukhari that Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrated that “Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam gave me the responsibility of looking after the zakat of Ramadhan (Sadqa e Fitr). A person came and started filling his containers with the Sadqa e Fitr. I grabbed him and told him that I would take him to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam. He said, ‘I am very poor and have a family to look after, and am in dire need of help’, and therefore I let him go. In the morning Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam asked me, ‘O Abu Hurairah, where is your prisoner from last night?’ I replied, ‘Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, he complained about his poverty and his family. I felt sorry for him and therefore I let him go.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘He lied to you and will come again.’ I realised that he would definitely come again as Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam had said he would return. I was anticipating his return and he came and started filling his containers again.

Once again, I seized him and told him that I would take him to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. He said, ‘Please let me go, I am poor and have a family, I will not come again.’ I felt sorry

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for him and let him go once again. In the morning Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam asked me, ‘O Abu Hurairah, what happened to your prisoner? I replied, ‘Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam, he complained about his poverty and his family. I felt sorry for him and therefore I let him go.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘He lied to you and will come again.’ I waited for him once again and he came and started

filling his containers yet again. I detained him and said, ‘This time I will take you to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. This has happened three times and you said you would not be back but you keep returning.’ He said, ‘Let me go and I will teach you some words which will be very profitable for you. When you go to bed, recite the complete verse beginning with “Allaahu Laa Ilaaha Illaa Huwal Hayyul Qayyoom”,1 you will be protected by Allah Ta’ala all night, and Satan will not be able to come near you.’ I let him go once again.

In the morning Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam asked me, ‘O Abu Hurairah, what happened to your prisoner?’ I replied, ‘Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, he taught me some words that he said would be very profitable to me.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘these words of his are true even though he is a great liar. Do you know who you were talking to for the last three nights?’ I replied that I did not and Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘that was Satan.’”

LAST TWO VERSES OF SURAH BAQARA

Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim report that Hazrat Abu Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam said, “If a person recites the last two verses of Surah Baqara at night, that is sufficient for him. The last two verses of Surah Baqara are from that treasure of Allah Ta’ala that is beneath the Throne. I have been given these two verses, learn them and teach them to your women; they are mercy and grant closeness to Allah Ta’ala and are supplications.” 2

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EXCELLENCE OF SURAH KAHF

It is reported in Sahih Muslim that Hazrat Abu Dawood Radiallaho

Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who memorises the first ten verses of Surah Kahf will be protected from the Anti-Christ (Dajjal). A person who recites Surah Kahf on the day of Jum'a (Friday), then the days between this Jum'a and the next one will be filled with light.”

EXCELLENCE OF SURAH YASEEN

Everything has a heart and the heart of the Qur’an is Surah Yaseen. If a person recites Surah Yaseen one time, Allah Ta’ala writes the reward of him reciting ten complete Qur’an’s. 1

One thousand years before creating the heavens and the earth, Allah Ta’ala recited Surah Ta’Ha and Surah Yaseen. When the Angels heard it, they said, “Congratulations to the Ummah that will receive this. Congratulations to those who are the protectors of this and congratulations to those tongues that will recite this.” 2

The person who recites Surah Yaseen for the Pleasure of Allah Ta’ala, his future sins are forgiven. Therefore, recite it by your deceased ones. 3

SURAH HAA-MEEM AND SURAH MU’MIN

The person who recites Surah Haa-Mim and Surah Mu’min up to “Ilayhil Maseer“, and recites Ayat ul Kursi in the morning, he will be protected until the evening. The person who recites them in the evening will be protected until the following morning.

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EXCELLENCE OF SURAH DUKHAAN

The person who recites Surah Dukhaan on the night before Friday will be forgiven. 1

EXCELLENCE OF SURAH IKHLAAS

The person who recites “Qul Huwal Laahu Ahad” two hundred (200) times in a day, his sins of fifty years will be wiped clean, except for any debt that he owes. 2

The person who lies on his right hand side on his bed and recites “Qul Huwal Laahu Ahad” one hundred (100) times, on the Day of Judgement, Allah Ta’ala will say, “O My servant! Turn to your right and enter Paradise.” 3

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam heard a person reciting Surah Ikhlaas and said, “Paradise is compulsory (Waajib) for you.” 4

1 Tirmidhi 2 Tirmidhi, Daarmi 3 Tirmidhi 4 Tirmidhi, Imam Malik

Invitation of Truth

For the reformation of faith and belief; For the reformation of deeds and actions;

To fill our hearts with love of Allah Ta’ala and Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam;

To learn the blessed Sunnahs of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam;

To create passion for learning our faith; To get closer to Maslak e A’ala Hazrat;

Attend Sunni Dawat E Islami’s weekly Ijtema every Saturday

after Salaat-ul-‘Isha at Markaz Ismail Habib Masjid. Mumbai 3,

or in your local town or city.

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Upon Mustafa, the Essence Of Mercy, Millions Of Salutations

Upon the Light of the People Of Guidance, Millions Of Salutations

To Me The Attendant Angels Say ‘Yes Raza’

Upon Mustafa, the Essence Of Mercy, Millions Of Salutations

(A’ala Hazrat)

Balaghal ‘Ula Bi Kamaalihi Kashafad Dujaa Bi Jamaalihi Hasunat Jamee’u Khisaalihi

Sallu ‘Alaihi Wa Aalihi

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Your Perfection Is The Reason For Your Loftiness

Your Unique Beauty Adorned The Worlds And Banished Darkness

All Your Blessed Qualities Are Beautiful

Blessings Upon Him And His Progeny

(Shaikh Sa’adi)




BBEENNEEFFIITTSS OOFF BBLLEESSSSIINNGGSS ((DDUURROOOODD))

O Lord Bestow Blessings and Salutations Forever and Ever Upon Your Beloved, Who Is The Best Of All Creations

The Difficulties That Befell Us Were Vanquished In Your Name The Remover Of Difficulties Is Your Name, Blessings And Salutations

Be Upon You


My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We should send blessings and salutations on the Pride of Adam and the children of Adam, Mercy to the Worlds, King of Madinah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in abundance. This is the only deed that is a Sunnah of our Lord and Creator. Allah Ta’ala showers countless petals of blessings upon His Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and His Angels are also presenting these blessed petals in the court of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Allah Ta’ala orders us to obey Him and follow Him and send blessings and salutations upon our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.

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Allah Ta’ala say’s in the Holy Qur’an,

“Undoubtedly, Allah and His Angels send blessings on the prophet, the communicator of unseen news, O you who believe! send upon him

blessings and salute him fully well in abundance.“ 1 BACKGROUND TO THE VERSE

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! All the efforts of the kuffar (non-Muslims) to destroy Islam failed. Despite inflicting untold pain and torture on the helpless Muslims of Makkah, they were unable to weaken their faith. They gladly and willingly gave up their homes, towns, families, and possessions, but were not willing to give up their connection to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and held onto this connection firmly. The non-believers invaded Madinah many times with great planning and tactics, but this handful of Muslims defeated them each time and they had to return empty handed on every occasion.

Their next strategy was to slander Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam and accuse him with all kinds of false accusations, so that people would begin to hate this beacon of light, hope, and guidance, and therefore the success and spread of Islam would be stopped. Allah Ta’ala revealed this verse and destroyed their plans, by stating that ‘My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is such that I praise him, and my countless Angels also constantly send blessings upon him with their tongues of purity and light. If you people attempt to belittle him, what difference does it make? Just as your previous plans failed and your previous attempts were ruined, similarly, this disgusting plan will also backfire and fail.’ 2

1 Surah Ahzab Verse 56 Kanzul Iman 2 Commentary on the verse Tafseer Zia ul Qur’an

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In the book “Anwaar e Ahmadi”, Allama Anwar Ullah Hyderabadi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states some points about the aforementioned verse that shows the status and exalted position of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in the sight of Allah Ta’ala. He states that it is incumbent on a believer to know the status of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam before reciting blessings and salutations (Durood and Salaam) on the Beloved Prophet Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam, and have that status in mind when reciting blessings and salutations. The satisfaction and pleasure will increase and the love for Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam will also increase.

FIRST POINT

The verse begins with “Inna”- which means “Without doubt.” In Arabic, “Inna“ is used to remove all doubt and to stress that the forthcoming statement is indeed a fact. Who are the people whose doubts are negated here and are being told explicitly that their belief is false and that the truth is about to follow?

Everyone knows that when this verse was revealed, there were three groups of people. The first were the group of Companions, Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhum; the second were the non-believers, and the third group of people were the hypocrites (Munafiqeen). The hypocrites were non-believers in their hearts, but outwardly, appeared to have accepted Islam.

The companion’s faith in the Qur’an and in Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam was so strong and firm that there was no question of doubt. As far as the non-believers were concerned, the verse did not refer to them either, as they had no doubt; they did not believe in Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam at all. The remaining group was then that of the hypocrites, who claimed to believe in the Qur’an, but had beliefs of infidelity and falsehood hidden in their hearts. There is no shortage of such people in this day and age either. This verse is aimed at all hypocrites until the Day of Judgement, whether the hypocrites are from that generation, or hypocrites who came later on.

The hypocrites are being told that the Ruler of the universe and all His Angels are always busy in sending blessings

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on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. What then, should the responsibility be of each and every Muslim, in terms of how much respect, adoration, and esteem we should have for Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam? This verse relays the importance for us to recite blessings and salutations and follow Allah Ta’ala and His Angels in this deed. The order has come from the greatest King and the Highest Court, thus there is no longer any room for doubt.

If, after such an order, a person’s heart does not accept the excellence of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, then such a person’s fate has been sealed in misery and wretchedness. May Allah Ta’ala protect us, Aameen.

SECOND POINT

In the verse “Undoubtedly, Allah and His Angels send blessings on the prophet, the communicator of unseen news, O you who believe! send upon him blessings and salute him fully well in abundance.“, Allah Ta’ala mentions the Angels who recite blessings upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and He refers to them as “His Angels.” In reality, all Angels are Allah Ta’ala’s Angels. When Allah Ta’ala mentions the Angels prostrating in front of Hazrat Adam ‘Alaihis Salaam, He says, “All the Angels prostrated before him.“ Here, He does not refer to the Angels as “His Angels“; rather, He just refers to them as “the Angels.“

This method of explaining and the use of words show that Allah Ta’ala loves His Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam so much that the Angels who recite blessings on His Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam are said to belong to Him also. This status is reserved only for the Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and whosoever has any link or relationship with the Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, also becomes beloved.

When it refers to Allah Ta’ala sending blessings (Arabic word: Salaat), it means that Allah Ta’ala praises and exalts His Beloved

Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in a gathering full of Angels. 1

1 Narrated by Bukhari

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When it mentions Angels sending blessings, it means that the Angels are busy in supplicating (making Du’a) to Allah Ta’ala to elevate the honour, and to exalt the status of this Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.

When Allah Ta’ala is continuously showering His blessings on His Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and his Angels are constantly making supplication and praising him, then O believers! You also supplicate to Allah Ta’ala for an exalted status for My Beloved

Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam; for his remembrance to be elevated, for his religion to be victorious, for his laws (Shari’ah) to remain forever, to raise his excellence in this world, for his intercession to be accepted on the Day of Judgement, and for the reward to be multiplied many, many times.

REWARD FROM ALLAH TA’ALA

Even though we are ordered to send blessings, neither do we understand the status of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam fully, nor can we fulfil its rights and obligations. That is why we request and say, “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammad“, meaning, “O Lord, only You know the lofty status, excellence, and honour of Your Beloved, therefore, You send blessings on our behalf to Your Beloved that is worthy of his status.” 1

When the verse, “Undoubtedly, Allah and His Angels send blessings on the prophet, the communicator of unseen news, O you who believe! send upon him blessings and salute him fully well in abundance“ was revealed, Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique Radiallaho

Ta’ala ‘Anhu asked, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam! Will we get any share of this great treasure and exalted honour that Allah Ta’ala has blessed you with? How will we benefit from this fountain of generosity and what will our share be?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam remained silent and Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis Salaam came with the following verse of the Quran,

1 Tafseer Zia ul Qur’an, reference from Lesaan ul ‘Arab, Page 22

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“It is He that sends blessings on you and His Angels too that He may bring you forth from darkness into light.“ 1

To understand better and in more detail the share of the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala that was granted to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, keep in mind the following verse,

“That Allah may forgive the sins of your formers and of your latters on account of you.“ 2

The Companions became overjoyed upon hearing this good news and said, “These words of happiness are a present to us poor, destitute ones, who are longing to meet the Lord.” A drop of the sacred wine of Muhammad Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is also offered to those who are eager to quench their thirst. Then the verse, “Allah Ta’ala has forgiven all your sins“ was revealed, and that was followed by “And that Allah might help you with mighty help.“ The Companions secured this discourse and rejoiced and celebrated their good fortune. 3

WHY IS THE UMMAH ORDERED TO RECITE BLESSINGS?

Imam Fakhruddin Raazi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes in “Israar ul Tanzeel” that the wisdom in giving the order to recite blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is so that the human soul, in spite of its instinctive frailties, is able to strengthen itself and

1 Surah Ahzab Verse 43 Kanzul Iman 2 Surah Fath Verse 2 Kanzul Iman 3 Ma’arejun Nabuwwah Vol 1 Page 319

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become capable to receive and understand the manifestation of brightness and glories from the Lord. In order to receive this bounty and beneficence, the relationship between our souls and the souls of the Prophets must be strong. Once they are reinforced and strengthened, then rays of light and blessings start arriving from the unknown world.

The rays of the sun fall on a home and peek through the door, but they do not brighten the floor and the walls. However, if a container of water or a mirror is placed inside the home, then they will capture these rays of light, and the reflection will brighten the roof and the walls. Similarly, the sacred souls of the Prophets ‘Alaihimus Salaam have the characteristics of the soul of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, which is why their disposition is instinctively capable of total acceptance. The souls of the Ummah are stuck in darkness due to their nature and weaknesses. They are benefiting from the particles of light that radiates from the blessed soul of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, and thus are strengthening themselves through reciting blessings. This accomplishment is only available through the blessings recited on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, which is why Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “On the Day of Judgement, the one nearest to me will be the one who recited blessings (Durood) on me in the highest numbers.” 1

WHY ARE ANGELS ORDERED TO RECITE BLESSINGS?

The wisdom in ordering the Angels to send blessings is so that the Angels would become aware of the respect and honour bestowed on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam; clearly understand and realise that they are attendants of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, and that they need to be obedient and submissive to his commands.

Another wisdom is that mankind was trapped in grief and troubles; the Angels were constantly fearful and apprehensive that

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their fate would end up similar to Iblees’s (Satan) and Haaroot and Maaroot’s (name of two Angels from whom Babylonians learnt black magic). In order to achieve peace of mind and heart, and to obtain the protection of Allah Ta’ala, the Angels made it their habit to recite blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam so that they may be safe from these threats. 1

EXCELLENCE OF BLESSINGS IN LIGHT OF AHADITH

Hazrat Anas bin Malik Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Whoever sends one blessing on me, Allah Ta’ala gives him ten rewards and removes ten of his sins.” 2 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Sending one blessing (Durood) results in Allah Ta’ala showering us with ten rewards according to His Status. When He gives, He always gives according to His Eminence. When He forgives our sins, He will forgive according to His Status. In reality, the Lord loves His Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam so much, that He is looking for excuses to forgive the Ummah of His Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam as this brings coolness and comfort to the eyes of the Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. The best and most profitable way to call upon the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala is by reciting blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. All Friends of Allah Ta’ala, all our pious predecessors and honourable people have always been punctual in reciting blessings. If you wish to remove sins from your book of deeds, and want to fill it with rewards, then recite blessings constantly. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen.

Hazrat Anas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Whoever recites one blessing on me, Allah Ta’ala sends ten mercies on him, forgives ten of his sins, and elevates his rank by ten levels.” 3

1 Ma’arejun Nabuwwah, Vol 1 Page 316 2 Tirmidhi Shareef, Reference from Jaami’ul Ahadith 3 Mishkat Shareef Reference from Mir’atil Manajih Vol 2 Page 100

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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Allah Ta’ala loves the servant who sends blessings on His Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Sometimes He forgives ten sins, other times He sends ten mercies. The aforementioned Hadith also states that the person has their status raised by ten levels. Subhan Allah!

Nowadays, everybody seeks a lofty position and wants to be exalted in all fields, in every situation and in every place. O those seeking loftiness! Send blessings upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam once with a sincere heart and, Insha Allah, you will have loftiness and exaltation in this world and the hereafter. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

RAISED STATUS

Imam Jalaluddin Suyuti Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes in the preface of “Jam’al Jawami’” that Ibn Asakar writes about a report by Hazrat Hafas bin ‘Abdullah in his book. He writes that Hazrat Hafas bin ‘Abdullah states that he saw Hazrat Abu Zar’a in his dream after Hazrat Abu Zar’a had passed away, and he saw that he was leading the Angels in prayer in the worldly skies. He asked him, “How did you obtain this position?” Hazrat Abu Zar’a replied, ‘I have written many thousands of Ahadith of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and with each Hadith, I wrote ‘Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said’” 1

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma stated that, “Whoever recites blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam one time, Allah Ta’ala and His Angels shower him with seventy mercies.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! According to one narration, Allah Ta’ala rewards the recitation of one blessing with seventy mercies. Allah Ta’ala loves His Beloved

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so much; the one that supplicates one time, that is, sends one blessing on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, is loved so much by Allah Ta’ala, that He showers seventy mercies on that person. We realise that sending blessings is such a deed, that whosoever does it, Allah Ta’ala is ready to shower His Mercy down on that person. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

According to a narration in “Kanzul A’maal”, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said that, “Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis Salaam told me that if a follower of mine recites blessings on me, in return for that, Allah Ta’ala writes ten good deeds for him, removes ten of his sins, and raises his status ten times. Also, an Angel uses the same words to bless the recitor that he used to bless you with.” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam asked, “Who is that Angel?” Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis Salaam replied, “Since you were created, this Angels duty is to say ‘May Allah Ta’ala’s Mercy shower on you also’ to all those who send blessings on you.”

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The order to recite blessings was given in the second year after migration, but the Angel whose job is to reward the recitor was present long before that. This makes it quite clear how respected and valuable sending blessings on our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam is in the Court of Allah Ta’ala, and how many arrangements have been made to show it’s grandeur and exalted position. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Sending blessings is the most beloved deed in the sight of Allah Ta’ala. That is why different virtues and merits have been ordained in order that a servant becomes regular in reciting blessings through any means possible, and he earns the benefits of the blessings in both worlds. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen.

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“Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

EXCELLENCE OF RECITING BLESSINGS IN ABUNDANCE

Hazrat ‘Abdullah Ibn Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “On the Day of Judgement, the closest to me from among the people will be those who have recited the most blessings and salutations on me.” 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Mankind’s temperament is such that he wants to be close to superior people and wants to be far away from inferior people. You will see that everyone tries to get close to those who are friends with rich, influential, high-ranking people. However, what will people obtain from getting close to “so called” important people in this world? Some money, a little fame, and maybe a worldly position of power? However, those who are considered superior in this world, sometimes become poor and destitute themselves.

The one whom Allah Ta’ala has made the most superior of all humans is our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, whose status is such that,

“And undoubtedly, the following one is better for you than the preceding one.” 2

This exalted Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam says that, ‘The closest to me on the Day of Judgement, will be one who has recited the most blessings on me.’

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has made it so simple for us to obtain closeness to him. Abundance of blessings will result in being close to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam when

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everyone is screaming and worrying about themselves. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen.

Hazrat Habbaan Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that a person came to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and asked, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, should I spend one-third of my time sending blessings on you?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “If you desire.” Then the person asked, “Should I spend two-thirds of my time sending blessings on you?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Yes.” Thereafter, the person said, “I will spend all my time sending blessings on you.” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “If you do that, Allah Ta’ala will make you successful in both worlds.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Just look at the enthusiasm and fervour of the Companions; their desire was to spend all their available time in sending blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. This desire of this companion pleased Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, and he proclaimed that, “If you spend all your available time in sending blessings on me, then my Lord will make you successful in both worlds.”

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! If we want to be successful in both worlds, then we must not spend our valuable time doing useless things. Rather, we should spend our time sending blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Insha Allah all our problems will be solved in this world and the hereafter. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

GOLD PEN, SILVER INKPOT, LUMINOUS PAPER

A Hadith is reported in “Kanzul A’maal” that is narrated by Hazrat ‘Ali Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu, who reports that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “There are certain Angels appointed

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by Allah Ta’ala who descend from the heavens on Friday (during the night before Friday and during the day itself). In their hands, they have gold pens and silver inkpots and paper. Their only duty is to write and record the blessings that are recited on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! There are many benefits reported in the Ahadith about reciting blessings on Fridays, out of which you have heard just one such Hadith. The Angels come with golden pens and silver inkpots and paper, which proves that sending blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is not an ordinary deed. It is so exalted that it is written on bright, luminous paper with a golden pen. Allah Ta’ala is showing the worth and value of the blessings through this and showing the status of His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

RECITE BLESSINGS IN ABUNDANCE ON FRIDAYS

Hazrat Abu Amamah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Recite blessings on me in abundance on Fridays, because my Ummah’s blessings are presented to me. The one who recites blessings on me in abundance will be closest to me.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Make it a habit to recite blessings in abundance on the eve of Friday and on the day of Friday. Sins will be forgiven, poverty will disappear, and the greatest benevolence is that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam will listen to the blessings himself, and he will recognise you too, Insha Allah. Let us make the intention today that we will recite blessings on the eve of Friday, and on Friday itself, to obtain the favours of our Master and Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.

1 Reference from Anwaar e Ahmadi, Roohul Bayaan Page 202 2 Al Mustadrak ul Haakim, Reference from Jaami’al Ahadith

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Let us look at another Hadith about reciting blessings on Fridays, and make it our habit to always recite blessings on Fridays.

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Whoever recites blessings on me 80 times every Friday, 80 years of his sins are forgiven, and whoever recites five hundred 500 blessings on me daily, he will never be poor.” 1

Some scholars state, specifically regarding reciting blessings on the eve of Friday, that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam himself replies to the blessings and salutations. 2

It is reported in one Hadith that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam said, “Whoever recites blessings on me 100 times on the eve of Friday, 100 of his needs will be fulfilled. 70 needs of this world, and 30 needs of the hereafter.” 3

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We go to many different places with our needs, with the hope that they will be fulfilled. Sometimes one of our needs is fulfilled and the rest are not. However, if we recite blessings one hundred times on the eve of Friday, Allah Ta’ala will fulfil seventy needs of this world, and thirty needs of the hereafter.

It is stated in another Hadith that if a person recites the following blessing 1000 times on a Friday, he will not die until he sees his place in Paradise, and that Durood is as follows: “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Aalihee Alfa Alfa Marrah.“ 4

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Look at how short the above blessing (Durood) is, but look at how much wealth there is in it. We should all try and memorise these kinds of blessings ourselves, and once memorised, recite them regularly and see our resting place in Paradise. May Allah Ta’ala

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give us all death with faith and guide us to recite blessings until our final breath, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

FORGIVEN BECAUSE OF RECITING BLESSINGS ON FRIDAYS

It is stated in a Hadith Shareef that before the soul left the body of Hazrat Khalid bin Katheer, there was a torn piece of paper that was found under his pillow. On it was written, “Khalid bin Katheer has obtained freedom from the fire of Hell.”

People asked his family what deed he performed for this miracle to happen. His family replied that his deed was that he used to recite blessings upon Sayyedina Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam 1000 times every Friday. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Undoubtedly, sending blessings is the cure for all the problems in this world and the hereafter. Very fortunate is the person who recites blessings upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam with complete faith and devotion. You have just seen that, as a result of reciting blessings one thousand times every Friday, the certificate of being free from the fire of Hell was obtained in this world. And why should it not be so? When Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam has said it, then it must be true. Are we all not worried about forgiveness? If we are, then we should try and recite as many blessings as possible on Fridays and, Insha Allah, obtain freedom from Hell. May Allah Ta’ala save us all from the fire of Hell, and may He guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

REWARD FOR RECITING BLESSINGS IN ABUNDANCE

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Hazrat Sufyaan Thoori Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu states that he was performing tawaf of the Ka’aba. He saw that instead of reciting Talbiyya (Labbaik), one person was reciting blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. He said to that person, “What is this? Instead of glorifying and praising Allah Ta’ala, you are reciting blessings. Do you have any proof from Islamic law to do this?” The person replied, “May Allah Ta’ala bless you with health and wellness, what is your name?” I replied that, “I am called Sufyaan Thoori.” He said, “If you were a visitor and I was sure that you would not tell my secret to anyone else, then I would surely tell you. In any case, the reality is that my father and I were coming to perform Hajj. Along the way, my father became ill and passed away. Unfortunately, his face turned black, his eyes turned dark and his stomach became bloated and puffy. Upon seeing this, I cried immensely and recited ‘Innaa Lillaahi Wa Innaa Ilayhi Raaji’oon.’ The greatest distress was the fact that my father had passed away and his body had become such that it was impossible to tell anyone about it. I covered my father’s face with a blanket and fell asleep.’

‘I saw in my dream that a very handsome and attractive person came, whom I had never seen before, and he was dressed in very elegant clothing that was beautifully perfumed with an amazing scent. He approached the body of my father and moved the blanket from his face. He placed his hand over my father’s face, and my father’s face became whiter than milk. Then he moved his hand over my father’s stomach, and his stomach returned to its normal state.’

‘After this, the handsome person began to leave. I moved forward and enquired, ‘I give you oath in the name of that Lord who sent you as mercy to my father, who are you?’ He said, ‘I am Muhammad Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Though your father was a great sinner, he used to recite blessings upon me in abundance. When he was inflicted with this anguish, he called upon me and I came to help him and fix the situation. I come to the aid of those who recite blessings in abundance upon me.’ After that, I woke up and saw that my father’s face was white and his stomach was normal.”

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Upon hearing this incident, Hazrat Sufyaan said, “You have spoken the truth” and ordered his students to narrate this incident to the followers of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and to write about it in their books, so that people can gain the benefits of reciting an abundance of blessings, and obtain freedom from the punishments of this world and the hereafter. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We see from the above-mentioned narration that the solution to every problem is reciting blessings on the Mercy to all the worlds Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Who is there in the world that is not embroiled in some form of trouble? This world is a house of troubles, and we have been specifically sent here to face an examination.

The reason for the creation of mankind has been clearly stated by Allah Ta’ala in the Holy Qur’an,

“He, Who has created death and life that He might test you, as to whose work is excellent amongst you.” 2

The reason for life and death is so that we can be tested as to which of us performs good deeds. Undoubtedly, our deeds are good, but how exalted must the deed be that Allah Ta’ala Himself performs?

The deed that is performed by Allah Ta’ala is sending blessings on His beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. The benefit of the blessings will ensure that the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala rains down on the person who recites blessings in abundance, Insha Allah, no matter how sinful he is, as we have seen in the aforementioned incident. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen.

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DETERMINING ABUNDANCE…

Imam Sha’raani Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes in Kashful Ghumma, that certain scholars have stated that an abundance of blessings means 700 blessings at night, and 700 blessings during the day upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. One scholar has stated that an abundance of blessings means 350 blessings at night, and 350 blessings during the day. 1

Hazrat Shaikh ‘Abdul Haq Muhaddith Dehlvi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala

‘Alaih states that, “There is a particular quantity that should be recited and that is, no less than 1000 blessings should be recited daily. If one is unable to recite that many, then be content with reciting 500. If this is not possible then at a minimum, recite 100 blessings daily. Some have declared a preference for three hundred, if a believer makes it a habit to always recite blessings, then it gradually becomes easier and easier for him.” My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The reason behind fixing a specific number of blessings is so that we get into the habit of reciting blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Once a person makes it their habit, then it becomes easier for him to recite; and the scholars’ aim in fixing numbers for us is so that we become punctual in reciting blessings, and thus make our hereafter easier.

Therefore, we should try and recite blessings as much as possible, starting at a minimum of between one hundred and three hundred blessings each and every day. Insha Allah, as time progresses, we will get into the habit of reciting more and more. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

PIOUS PEOPLE AND RECITING BLESSINGS

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IN ABUNDANCE

Shaikh Muhammad Abul Mawahib Shaazlee Rehmatullahe Ta’ala

‘Alaih is from amongst the great scholars and pious predecessors. He used to recite one thousand blessings during the day, and one thousand blessings during the night. Imam Sha’raani Rehmatullahe

Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes that he used to recite blessings in great number, and that he was blessed with the privilege of seeing Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam many times. He was also blessed with this great honour in 725 A.H. (Hijri) in a field at Al Azhar University whilst he was awake, and Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam placed his blessed hand on his chest. All these graces and favours were as a result of reciting blessings in abundance. 1

Imam Sha’raani Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih further writes that Hazrat Nooruddeen Sufi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih is also amongst those pious people who were granted the privilege of seeing Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam whilst awake. His habit and practice was that he would initiate and establish gatherings to recite blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam wherever he went. Makkah, Madinah, Jerusalem, Egypt, Syria, Yemen etc. are just some of the places where he established such gatherings. He also established such a gathering at Al Azhar University in 797 A.H. He states that he was very keen to recite blessings right from childhood. He further goes on to say that he would gather all the local children, feed them, and then ask them to join him in reciting blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. He states that the majority of the day was spent in reciting blessings and he would recite 10,000 blessings daily with great respect and courtesy.

Shaikh Ahmad Zoori Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih used to recite 40,000 blessings each day. Imam Sha’raani Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih himself states that since he started remembering Allah Ta’ala (Zikr of Allah), and sending blessings in abundance, “My heart has been expanded.” Whoever makes it their practice to always remember Allah Ta’ala, and send blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam; such a person will be blessed with success in both

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worlds. He states that in the world of Mysticism (Tareeqat), an abundance of blessings is crucial, and it is through an abundance of blessings that access to the court of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam is obtained. Reciting blessings in great numbers grants you the privilege of seeing the Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam whilst awake. Imam Jalaluddin Suyuti Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states

about himself that he has seen Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam 75 times whilst awake. 1 Hazrat Shaikh ‘Abdul Haq Muhaddith Dehlvi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala

‘Alaih writes in Madarejun Nabuwwah that, as a result of reciting a great quantity of blessings, he was blessed with being able to present himself in the court of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in the same manner that the Companions used to present themselves. 2

HONOURED WITH SEEING RASOOL ALLAH Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam

Hazrat Mas’ood Raazi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih was a pious person from Persia. He used to go to the ‘stand’ (where labourers would come and sit and those who needed help would come and hire them to work for the day). He would go there and hire as many labourers as he could find and take them to his home.

The labourers would think that they were being hired to build something. Hazrat Mas’ood Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih would sit down with them and say, “Recite blessings (Durood).” He would join them in reciting blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam and at the end of the working day (‘Asr time), he would pay them in full for a day’s work and then give them permission to leave. As a result of his dedication and devotion to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, he was honoured with the privilege of seeing Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam whilst awake. 3

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A HUGE ANGEL

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Allah Ta’ala has created an Angel whose arms stretch so wide that they encompass the East and the West; it’s head is below the Throne of Allah Ta’ala and it’s feet are deep down in the earth. It has as many wings as there are people on the earth. When any male or female from my Ummah sends blessings on me, the Angel is ordered to dive into the sea of light (Noor) that is below the Throne of Allah Ta’ala.

Once he has dived in it and comes out and flaps his wings, from each drop that falls off his wings, Allah Ta’ala creates an Angel. All these Angels beg for the forgiveness of the person who recited the blessing until the Day of Judgement.”

A wise person has stated that eating less safeguards the body, committing less sins safeguards the soul, and the abundance of blessings and salutations on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam safeguards faith (Imaan). 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The only ones who are successful are the ones who die with faith; and reciting blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is the best deed to ensure that we die with faith. Therefore, we should benefit from what we have just read and ensure that we recite blessings in abundance and obtain the honour of dying with faith. May Allah Ta’ala grant all of us the great gift of death with faith guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

Hazrat Mu’az bin Jabal Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Allah Ta’ala has not granted any Prophet the status and rank that He has gifted me, and I have been granted distinction and superiority over the other Prophets. My Ummah has been given a high rank also, in that they recite blessings upon me. An Angel, named Mantoosh, has been appointed to stay by my resting place. He is so huge that his head is below the Throne of Allah Ta’ala; his feet are deep down in the

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earth, he has eighty thousand arms, eighty thousand wings, and under the wings he has eighty thousand locks of hair. Under each lock of hair, he has a tongue with which he praises and glorifies Allah Ta’ala, and asks for the forgiveness of the person who recites blessings on me.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Subhan Allah! The largest of the Angels will plead for us to be forgiven. There is amazing grace and beneficence in sending blessings. Very foolish is the person who is still too lazy to recite blessings after knowing all this, therefore come, let us all ask Allah Ta’ala to give us the guidance to recite blessings in abundance until our final breath, Aameen.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! It does not take much time to recite blessings, and if we recite them with a sincere heart, the innocent Angels supplicate for our forgiveness; if the Angels ask for our forgiveness, Allah Ta’ala will undoubtedly forgive us. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

INTRODUCED IN THE HEAVENS

Hazrat Abi Ahmad Zaid bin Zaid Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “When a person recites blessings on me once, Allah Ta’ala recites blessings on that person ten times (according to His Status). After this, the inhabitants of the earthly sky are made aware of the blessing that the person has sent and are told to join in. Then the recitor is introduced to the residents of the second heaven and blessings are sent on him twenty-two times. Similarly, the populace of the third heaven are made aware of the blessing and the population there sends one thousand blessings on the person. When the inhabitants of the fourth heaven hear this, they recite two thousand blessings on the person. The inhabitants of the fifth heaven hear this blessing and they recite five thousand blessings on the person. The

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residents of the sixth heaven send six thousand blessings on this person upon hearing this, and in reply to this, the population of the seventh heaven recite seven thousand blessings on the person concerned. After this Allah Ta’ala states that “The reward of all these blessings will be granted to the individual who recited a single blessing on My Beloved.” Allah Ta’ala then announces, “All his sins will be forgiven and this esteem and honour is due to reciting blessings on My Beloved.” 1

Recite blessings, “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! What Grace of the Lord and what beneficence there is in sending blessings on the Mercy to all the Worlds Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam! Reading the aforementioned Hadith and having the desire and enthusiasm to recite blessings is a sign of faith. What greater honour can there be for a believer than the fact that as soon as he recites a single blessing, the Angels of the seven heavens send blessings on him, and Allah Ta’ala forgives him? Let us drown ourselves in love and recite blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam, and ask Allah Ta’ala to give us the guidance to recite blessings in this way until our final breath, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

RASOOL ALLAH’S PRESENT Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam

The Commander of the Faithful, Hazrat ‘Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala

‘Anhu narrates that he once asked Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, the gift from your Ummah is blessings that they recite upon you. What do you give in return for that gift?”

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘Umar, you have asked an excellent question. My followers’ gift to me is the

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blessings that they recite, and on the Day of Judgement, the gift that will be given by me to them is Paradise.’” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has promised in the previous Hadith, that the reward for sending blessings is Paradise. All believers have total faith in the promise of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and know that his promise will be fulfilled. Therefore, recite blessings and obtain Paradise through the alms of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

MAY HE BE RUINED

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “May the person be ruined in front of whom my name is mentioned, and he does not send blessings on me. May the person be ruined who obtains the month of Ramadhan but does not obtain his forgiveness. May the person be ruined who finds his parents, or one of them, in old age and he does not obtain Paradise (by serving them).” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is expressing his displeasure in the above Hadith. He is showing which deeds make him unhappy, and he states that ‘May the person who hears my name and does not send blessings on me be ruined.’ Allah o Akbar!

We realise that whenever Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam is mentioned we should send blessings on him. Otherwise, just as the pleasure of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam will be rewarded with Paradise, the displeasure of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam will be punished with ruin.

May Allah Ta’ala guide us to stay away from all those things that displease Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, e.g. fall short in the service of our parents, carelessness in the month of

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Ramadhan, and laziness in reciting blessings when Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is mentioned. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to please Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

WHO IS THE MISER?

Hazrat ‘Ali Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The biggest miser is one in front of whom my name is mentioned and he does not send blessings on me.” 1

Hazrat Abu Sa’eed Khudri Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrated that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “When there are people present in a gathering, and blessings are not sent upon me, regret and sorrow rain down on that gathering until the Day of Judgement. If the host of the gathering obtains Paradise through his other deeds, he will be void of the status and reward that sending blessings grant.”

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We talk about many things in our gatherings, we do not get tired talking about everything under the sun, but we are lazy and lacking when it comes to reciting blessings in our gatherings; the result of this will be seen in the hereafter. We realise from the above narration that we should certainly recite blessings in our gatherings so that we will not be ashamed and humiliated on the Day of Judgement, and so that Allah Ta’ala raises our status because of the blessings that we have recited. When our status will be raised in the hereafter due to the blessings that we recite, will our status not be exalted in this world too? If only we would realise this and make it our habit to always recite blessings. May Allah Ta’ala guide us to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen.

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It is reported in "Taajul Mudhakkireen" that Hazrat Ibn Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu states that he heard Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam say, “On the Day of Judgement, some people will be told to go to Paradise, but they will forget the way to Paradise.” The Companions asked, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Who are those people?”

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “They are those people in front of whom my name was mentioned, but they were not able to recite blessings on me. The person who forgets to recite blessings on me has forgotten the path to Paradise.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The order to enter Paradise will be given, but those who forget to recite blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam when his blessed name is mentioned, will forget the path to Paradise. What a great loss it will be if we sit in good gatherings, talk about good things, but then forget to recite blessings at the appropriate times. The path to Paradise will be obtained through sending blessings, therefore recite blessings and make the path to Paradise bright and easy to follow. May Allah Ta’ala, through the alms of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, make us all punctual in reciting blessings, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

DEPRIVED OF SEEING RASOOL ALLAH Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Three groups of people will be deprived of seeing me on the Day of Judgement: (1) One who is disobedient to parents. (2) One who abandons my Sunnahs. (3) One who hears my name and does not send blessings upon me.”

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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! What can be greater than the privilege of seeing Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam? However, Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam has mentioned three groups of unfortunate people who, due to their lack of deeds, will be deprived of seeing him. What greater gift can there be for a slave than to see his Master? We should refrain from committing any act which deprives us of the honour of seeing Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, especially being disobedient to parents, abandoning his Sunnahs, and not reciting blessings when we hear the blessed name of Sayyedina Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.

May Allah Ta’ala save us from the three sins mentioned above and make us obedient to our parents and make us punctual in following the Sunnahs, Aameen. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

FOUR THINGS ARE CRUEL

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Four things are cruel: (1) To stand and urinate. (2) To dust yourself down before completing prayers (Salaah). (3) To hear the call for prayer (Adhaan) and not go for prayer. (4) To hear my name and not recite blessings on me.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The thing that is called “cruel” by Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam is undoubtedly cruel.

The word cruel (Zulm) means “darkness”, meaning that the person who does the above-mentioned four things, has chosen darkness for himself. Doing those four things will mean the face gets darkened, the heart gets darkened, and the grave gets darkened etc. Those four things are as follows:

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1. To stand and urinate. This is the way of the enemies of Islam and this will lead to darkness. Therefore stay away from this deplorable act.

2. To dust yourself down before completing prayers. Many people perform prayers in such a place where there is dust and dirt. When a person prostrates, the dirt sticks to his forehead and he begins to wipe it off. Little does he know how much Allah Ta’ala loves the dust and dirt that is on the forehead from performing prostration. If you must wipe it off, then wipe it off after you have finished the prayer. If we wipe it off before completing prayers, then we have been cruel on ourselves.

3. To hear the call for prayer (Adhaan) and not go for prayer. This is very common nowadays that people listen to the call for prayer, but do not pay any attention to it. Such people are committing cruelty on themselves.

4. To hear the name of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and not recite blessings on him. For heaven’s sake, do not be lazy and whenever you hear the name of Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam, always recite blessings on him.

STANDING OVER A ROTTEN CORPSE

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The people who rise and disperse from a gathering without reciting blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, are standing over a rotting corpse.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We see from the above-mentioned Hadith that the blessings we recite are a fragrance, therefore, we should not get up from any gathering without reciting blessings. Rather, make the gathering perfumed by reciting blessings and cover ourselves in that beautiful fragrance too, Insha Allah. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

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IN THE FIRE

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who does not send blessings upon me when I am mentioned in his presence, is in the fire.”

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! May Allah Ta’ala save us all from the fire and give us the guidance to recite blessings upon hearing the name of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

HE IS PATHETIC

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who does not send blessings upon me when I am mentioned in his presence is pathetic and wretched.”

HE HAS NO RELATIONSHIP WITH ME

The Prophet of Mercy, Light of the Worlds Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who does not send blessings upon me when I am mentioned in his presence has no relationship with me, and I have no relationship with him.” Then Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam said, “Oh Allah! Be with those who are with me, and break ties with those who break ties with me.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! From this Hadith, we can see how much it grieves, upsets and hurts Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam when someone hears his name but does not send blessings upon him. He is so disappointed and saddened he states that ‘I have no relationship with the person’, and asks Allah Ta’ala to break ties with those who break ties with him. Allah O Akbar! Allah Ta’ala does not reject any supplication made by Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam, therefore we should make our relationship with Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam strong and not break it off. We

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must ensure that we save ourselves from upsetting or disappointing Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam by reciting blessings as soon as we hear his blessed name. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen

RASOOL ALLAH IGNORING ONE… Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam

One person was not in the habit of reciting blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. One night, he saw Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in his dream, but Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam ignored him. The person said, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, are you upset at me for some reason, is that why you are ignoring me?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “No, I don’t even know who you are.” He pleaded, “How can you not know me? Scholars state that you know your followers better than a mother knows her child.”

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The scholars have stated the truth, but you never reminded me about yourself by sending blessings on me. I know my followers as much as they recite blessings on me, the more they recite the better I know them.” This upset the person greatly, and he began to recite blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam one hundred times every day. A short time later, he was blessed with the privilege of seeing Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam again in his dream. This time, the Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Now I recognise you, and will also intercede for you.” Due to his actions in the intervening time, he had now become a beloved of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. 1

Allama Ibn Hajar ‘Asqalaani Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih has written in his book, “Az Zawaa Jiru ‘An Iqtiraafil Kabaa-ir”, that not reciting blessings when you hear the name of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam is classified as being amongst the major sins. 2 May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings, Aameen.

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TONGUE BECAME MUTE

A person was very lazy and not in the habit of reciting blessings upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam when he heard the blessed name of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. This person’s tongue became mute (he was unable to speak); he became blind, fell into a sewage gutter and died thirsty. 1 May Allah Ta’ala protect us all from a dreadful ending, Aameen.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We see and hear many “so-called” Muslims say all kinds of lies and slander about reciting blessings. For example, ‘Why do you recite so many blessings?’ and ‘Why do you recite blessings before the call to prayer?’ etc. Such people should take a lesson from the Hadith mentioned above and should avoid being lethargic in order to ensure that they die in a good place with faith, and so that Allah Ta’ala saves them from a bad ending.

Insha Allah, those who are in the habit of always reciting blessings will have a good ending, and those who are lazy in reciting blessings will have a horrible death. May Allah Ta’ala bless us all with a good ending and death with faith and may Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

CLOSENESS TO ALLAH TA’ALA

A narration by Hazrat Ka’ab Ahbaar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu in the book "Masabih ul Zilaam" states that Allah Ta’ala said to Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam, “O Moosa, if there is nobody left in the world that praises you, then I will not send a single drop of rain from the clouds, and neither will I allow a single grain to grow from the earth.” In this manner Allah Ta’ala mentioned many things. Then

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Allah Ta’ala said, “O Moosa, do you desire that I become as close to you as your words are to your tongue, as close as your thoughts are to your heart, as close as your soul is to your body, and as close as your sight is to your eyes? Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam said, “O my Lord! Yes, that is what I want.” Allah Ta’ala stated, “Recite blessings in abundance upon Muhammad Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and you will obtain this relationship.”

In one narration it states that Allah Ta’ala said, “O Moosa, do you desire that thirst does not affect you on the Day of Judgement?” Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam said, “Yes, that is what I want.” Allah Ta’ala stated, “Recite blessings in abundance upon Muhammad Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.” Hafiz Abu Na’eem has also reported this in “Hilyah.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Everyone wants to be close to Allah Ta’ala, but how is this achievable? We learn from the aforementioned about Allah Ta’ala telling Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam that the way to obtain more closeness than an eye has with sight, and more closeness than thoughts have to the heart, is to recite blessings upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. When the means of obtaining closeness to Allah Ta’ala for Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam is reciting blessings on our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, it is even more imperative for us slaves. Therefore, recite blessings in abundance in order to obtain closeness to Allah Ta’ala in both worlds. May Allah Ta’ala look at us all with mercy and guide us to recite blessings constantly, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

REWARD EQUIVALENT TO 400 PILGRIMAGES

Hazrat ‘Ali Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that when Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said that if a person performs pilgrimage and then performs Jihad, it is the equivalent of four hundred pilgrimages; at that time, those people who could not perform

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pilgrimage and did not have the strength for Jihad were disheartened and upset. Allah Ta’ala revealed to His Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam that the person who recites blessings on you will be rewarded the equivalent of four hundred pilgrimages. This has been reported by Abu Hafas bin ‘Abdul Majeeb Saayshee in “Majaalis ul Makkiyah.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The grace and favours of our Lord upon us are too numerous to comprehend. If we are unable to perform pilgrimage and Jihad due to poverty or weakness, and are unable to obtain the reward of four hundred pilgrimages, even then Allah Ta’ala does not deprive us of the reward. Rather, He states that, ‘O you who are in search of rewards! Recite blessings on My Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and fill your laps with the reward of four hundred pilgrimages’. Subhan Allah! My Lord is undoubtedly Merciful. May Allah Ta’ala guide us to constantly recite blessings, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

EACH HAIR SEEKS FORGIVENESS

Hazrat Maqatal Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu states that there is an Angel beneath the Throne of Allah Ta’ala whose head is bordering the Throne. His hair is such that it is the same length and width as the Throne. On each of his hairs is written “Laa Ilaaha Illal Laahu Muhammadur Rasoolul Laah.“ When a person recites blessings and salutations on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, each hair of the Angel continuously pleads for the forgiveness of the person who recited the blessing. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! What favours there are of the Gracious Lord! He makes innocent Angels supplicate for those who recite blessings so that they may be forgiven. If only we would keep our tongues busy

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with the recitation of the blessings and earn forgiveness. May Allah Ta’ala guide us to recite blessings, Aameen.

BITTERNESS OF DEATH REMOVED

A pious person saw a man in his dream and asked him, “How was the bitterness of death?” The person replied, “I have no idea because I did not experience this bitterness of death. I had heard from the scholars that the person who recites blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam constantly is kept safe from the agonies and pains of death by Allah Ta’ala. Reciting blessings and salutations was always my habit and that is why, at the time of death, I felt no bitterness.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! When one reads the details about the agonies of death that are described in the Qur’an and the Ahadith, it makes one shake and tremble in fear. Our Lord has shown us the way to alleviate and remove those agonies and to make easy the passage of the soul from the body; that method is to recite blessings and salutations continuously on our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam. He will remove all difficulties and grant peace and contentment through the grace of the blessings that have been recited. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen.

AGONIES OF DEATH ARE EASED

During the reign of the Commander of the Faithful, Sayyedina Hazrat ‘Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu, there lived a very wealthy person whose behaviour and conduct was inadequate, but he was very enthusiastic about reciting blessings. He would never be lazy or forget to recite blessings.

When the time of his death came, and the agonies and pangs of death started, his face became dark, and great pain and difficulty was experienced to the point that those who saw him became frightened. In this agonising state he proclaimed, “O

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Beloved of Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam! I have great love for you and recite blessings on you.”

He had not finished this proclamation yet when suddenly, a bird came from the sky and stroked half of the person’s face with its wing. Immediately, his face became radiant and bright and a beautiful scent filled the area, and he left the world whilst reciting the proclamation of faith (Kalimah). Once they had bathed and shrouded him and took him towards his grave, a voice was heard saying, “We have provided for this person even before he is placed into his grave and the blessings that he used to recite on My Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam have taken him out of his grave and placed him in Paradise.”

Upon hearing this, the people were amazed and when night fell, someone saw that he was walking between the earth and the heavens and was reciting, “Undoubtedly, Allah and His Angels send blessings on the Prophet, the Communicator of Unseen News, O you who believe! send upon him blessings and salute him fully well in abundance.“ 1

Your Blessed Name O Beloved Helped At All Times In All Difficulties

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Have you seen the benefits and advantages of sending blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam constantly, and how much help it provided at the time of death? Let us ask Allah Ta’ala to grant us all the ability to recite Kalimah at the time of death, and give us the opportunity to see his Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

QUESTIONING IN THE GRAVE MADE EASIER

Shaikh Ahmad bin Abi Bakr Rawaad Sufi reports an incident involving Muhaddith Hazrat Shiblee Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih in his book. He states that, “One of my neighbours died and I saw him in my dream. I asked him, “How did Allah Ta’ala treat you?” He

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replied, “Don’t ask! I have had to go through many frightening stages. The questioning of the Angels in the grave was very difficult for me. I thought to myself that maybe I did not die with faith. I heard a voice saying ‘This difficulty is because you kept your tongue idle in the world.’ When the Angels of punishment were approaching, a very handsome, attractive person who was beautifully fragranced came between the Angels and me. At that moment, I was reminded about the love for faith that I had and I said ‘May Allah Ta’ala have mercy on you, who are you?’ The person replied, ‘I am the person that has been created from the blessings that you used to send upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam and I have been ordered to be your helper during this difficult and frightening time.’” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The blessings that we recite help us during all difficulties; as you have read in the aforementioned incident about help being received during the questioning in the grave, and help being received at the time of death in the incident before that; Angels came to help, and a handsome person came to this person in his time of need, who was the blessings that had been sent upon our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. It is our responsibility to obtain the mercy of the Merciful One and gain freedom from the troubles and difficulties of both worlds by reciting blessings all the time. May Allah Ta’ala make the questions in the grave easy for all of us, and may Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

INHABITANTS OF THE GRAVEYARD FORGIVEN

Hazrat Hafiz Sakhaawi ‘Alaihir Rahmah reports that a lady came to the court of Hazrat Khwaja Hasan Basri Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih and said, “My daughter has died and I want to see her in my dream.” Khwaja Hasan Basri Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih said, “Pray four rak’ats Nafl after ‘Isha prayer, then lie down and begin reciting blessings

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on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and continue doing so until you fall asleep.”

The lady did as she was told. She saw that her daughter was in pain and was being punished. She was dressed in clothing of coal, her hands were tied, and her feet were shackled with chains of fire. When she awoke, she went to Hazrat Khwaja Hasan Basri Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih and relayed the whole dream to him. He said, “Offer some charity, it is possible that Allah Ta’ala may forgive her.” That night, when Hazrat Khwaja Hasan Basri Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih went to sleep, he saw a beautiful girl sitting on a throne in his dream. She had a crown of light on her head and she said, “O Hasan, do you know me?” Hazrat Khwaja Hasan Basri Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih replied, “No, I do not know you.” The girl said, “I am the daughter of the lady who came to you and whom you instructed to recite blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam.” Khwaja Hasan Basri Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih said to her,

“Your mother had told me that you were in great difficulty and pain, completely the opposite of what I am seeing.” The young lady said, “She told you the truth, I was in that state. 70,000 of us were being punished in the manner that my mother had told you. A pious person passed by the graveyard where we all were and he recited blessings once on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and he presented the reward of that to the people who were the inhabitants of the graveyard. Allah Ta’ala accepted it and forgave all of us through the blessing of that pious person, removed our punishment and gave me the status that you now see me in.” Imam Qurtubi has narrated this in his book in different words. 1

A pious person passes by an unfamiliar graveyard, recites blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and the punishment is lifted from all the inhabitants of the graveyard! It is not surprising therefore, that a person who spends fifty or sixty years of his life sending blessings night and day, will be freed from the punishment of the hereafter and will be given the glad

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tidings of receiving the intercession of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam. My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! There are glorious benefits of reciting blessings as we have just seen. A person recites blessings on the earth and Allah Ta’ala forgives those people who are under the earth and have passed away as a result of that blessing. Therefore, we should always recite blessings at the graveyard. The Lord who shows so much Kindness and Grace to those who have passed away will also show equal Kindness to those who are living. May Allah Ta’ala forgive all those Muslims who have passed away and all those who are alive and may He guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

HE CROSSED THE BRIDGE (PUL SIRAAT)

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who recites blessings on me will be granted a magnificent light (Noor) on the bridge, and the people who are given this will not be amongst the people of Hell. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! “Pul Siraat” is a bridge that is above the fire of Hell. The fire of Hell is not red, it is black; because of this, it will be very dark on the bridge. Just think, at this crucial time, Allah Ta’ala will grant the people who recite blessings a brilliant light that will make it easy for them to cross the bridge. Therefore, recite blessings on the earth and obtain a brilliant light on the bridge. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

Hazrat Imam ‘Ali Hakeem in “Nawaadarul Asool” reports a Hadith narrated by Hazrat Abdur Rahmaan Samrah Radiallaho

Ta’ala ‘Anhu. One day, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam came out

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of his house and said, “Last night I was shown an amazing dream. I saw a person from my Ummah crossing the bridge (Pul Siraat) and he was shaking. He was proceeding with great difficulty when suddenly those blessings that he had sent upon me during his lifetime arrived, took him by the hand, and helped him across the bridge.” 1

Subhan Allah! My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam’s beloved devotees! There is no road or path that is more difficult than the bridge that has to be crossed to get into Paradise. The blessings that are recited upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam will become a means of peace and safety at that time. For Allah’s Sake! Make it a habit to recite blessings. When these blessings are a means to peace and safety in the hereafter, they are definitely a means to obtain those things in this world too. May Allah Ta’ala guide us to constantly recite blessings and to make these blessings a means for peace, contentment and tranquillity in this world and the hereafter, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

It is reported in “Zuhratul Riyaaz” that Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Allah Ta’ala has created an Angel whose name is ‘Izraaeel. On the Day of Judgement, this Angel will spread it’s wing and will put it down on the bridge and proclaim, ‘The people who have recited blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam can cross over the bridge on my wing.’” 2 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved

devotees! Subhan Allah! We see from this Hadith that Allah Ta’ala creates Angels and puts them at the service of those slaves who recite blessings upon His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. What grace and beneficence there is of these blessings. May Allah Ta’ala bless and shower His favours on us, and may He make it easy for us to cross the bridge with ease on the Day of Judgement, Aameen.

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BLESSINGS ARE A MEANS OF FORGIVENESS

Hazrat Ibn ‘Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “On the Day of Judgement, the order will be given for a person from my Ummah to be thrown into the fire of Hell. He will cry and say to the Angels, ‘O Angels, what am I being thrown into?’ They will reply, ‘Into Hell.’ He will say, ‘Give me some time so that I can weep on my misfortune.’ The Angels will say, ‘You should have reflected and pondered this whilst you were alive on the earth so that you could have made better use of your time, it is no use crying now.’ The person will say, ‘I am the offspring of Hazrat Adam ‘Alaihis Salaam and do not have the capacity to withstand the heat of the fire of Hell. I am from the Ummah of Muhammad Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam and I did not expect this from my Lord.’ The Angels will ask, ‘O slave of Allah Ta’ala, what did you expect from your Lord?’ He will reply, ‘I did not expect that my Lord would throw me into the fire of Hell along with the Christians and Jews.’ The Angels will say, ‘Look, there is Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam standing in the Court of Allah Ta’ala; ask him, he will be able to intercede for you, otherwise we will have to throw you into Hell.’

The person will walk through the field of Mehshar in oblivion, unaware of his surroundings, reach Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and will plead his case. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam will hear his pain filled voice and will turn his attention towards him. He will see that the Angels are guarding him and that the Angels of punishment have hold of him. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam will say, ‘Let go of him and give him to me so that his deeds can be weighed one more time.’ The Angels will say, ‘Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, the reason he is in this state is because we are obeying the commands of Allah Ta’ala. We are not able to release him unless we receive the order from Allah Ta’ala.’

At that moment, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam will fall into prostration and say, ‘O Allah! These Angels are standing between me and one of your slaves.’ Allah Ta’ala will say, ‘O

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Angels, give My servant into the care of My Beloved.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam will take this sinner to the weigh scales and will take out a bright piece of paper, which has writing on it that is written with a pen of light. This will be placed on the side of his good deeds and will far outweigh his bad deeds. Allah Ta’ala will order the Angels, ‘Take him to Paradise.’

As the person is taken towards Paradise and approaches the Door of Paradise, he will see Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam standing at the Door of Paradise. Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam will ask the person, ‘Do you know who I am?’ He will reply, ‘May my parents be sacrificed upon you, there is no one as beautiful as you.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam will say, ‘Yes, I am your Prophet Muhammad Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and the piece of paper that I placed on the weigh scales, which was heavier than all your bad deeds, was all the blessings (Duroods) that you used to send upon me when you were on the earth.’ At that moment the person will fall at the feet of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and gain the honour of kissing the blessed feet of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. He will say, ‘If you were not here today; if your intercession had not helped me; if I had not recited blessings on you, then I would have been in the fire of Hell with the other dwellers of the fire, and would have been subjected to that punishment for thousands of years.’” 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! You can see from this how the blessings, and the Mercy to the Worlds Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam will help us on the Day of Judgement. Those people who buy and listen to cassettes, DVDs, and CDs of songs and music, then sing useless lyrics and hum the tunes, should realise that there is nothing that will be obtained from these things except ruin. Reciting the Qur’an and reciting blessings upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam will lead to success in both worlds. For Allah’s Sake! Protect your tongues from songs and music and keep your tongues moist with recitation of blessings. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen.

1 Ma’arejun Nabuwwah, Page 302, Tafseer Zia ul Qur’an Page 926

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SINS DESTROYED

Hazrat Abu Bakr Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that reciting blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam destroys sins more than cold water destroys fire. Reciting blessings upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is better than freeing slaves. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The punishment for committing sins is being burned in the fire of Hell. Are we not sinners? Do we not have the marks of sins all over us? Our whole book of deeds is dark with small and large sins. If Allah Ta’ala captures us in this state, can you imagine the devastating result? Therefore let us cool the fire of sins with His Mercy and Favour, in other words, recite blessings and obtain the reward of freeing slaves. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

AN ANGEL’S FORGIVENESS

One day, Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis Salaam came to Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam and said, “I have seen an amazing thing today.” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam asked him what he had seen. He replied, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, today I was passing by Mount Kaaf and I heard someone wailing and crying. I went towards the sound and I saw an Angel who I have seen many times before today in the heavens, and who used to sit with great respect and grandeur on a throne of light. Seventy thousand Angels would stand before him in his service and would always surround him. When this Angel would breathe, Allah Ta’ala would create an Angel with each breath that he would take.

Today, I saw him on Mount Kaaf with his head lowered, upset, sad, and crying. I asked him the reason for this and he replied, “On the Night of Ascension (Me’raj), I was sat on my

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throne and Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam passed by my throne. I did not bother to show respect and honour to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam at that time. Allah Ta’ala did not like this pride of mine and therefore He has condemned me to this place. I have been banished from the heavens and been displaced to this dirt. O Jibreel, please intercede on my behalf, obtain forgiveness for my sin from the court of Allah Ta’ala so that I can return to my previous position.”

Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis Salaam said, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, I humbly and meekly requested his forgiveness in the Court of Allah Ta’ala, and Allah Ta’ala said, ‘O Jibreel, tell this Angel that if he wants to obtain any favour or forgiveness, recite blessings on My Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam so that he can be returned to his previous position and status.’”

Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis Salaam continued on and said “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, as soon as he heard this, he began reciting blessings upon you. As he was reciting, I saw that his wings re-appeared and he was raised off the dirt and lifted up to the heavens, and was blessed with his previous position and station.” The reality is that it is the blessings that are recited upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam that are the means to forgiveness and a lofty exalted status. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Subhan Allah! If an Angel falls short in honouring and respecting Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, then he is subjected to punishment. Today, all forms of respect and honour are labelled as “shirk” and “bid'at” and attempts are made to turn us into offenders and insulters. The reason for this is that our faith is the strongest thing that we have, and the foundation of faith is undying love for Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. If a person insults Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, he has lost his faith, and he cannot achieve anything but disgrace and humiliation. The Angel did not show respect and was therefore punished, but he realised his mistake, sought forgiveness and cried constantly, and the Lord gave him an avenue for forgiveness in the form of

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reciting blessings. As a result of this, he was returned to his original position. O slaves of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam! We have all lost and forgotten what we had. If we want to return to greatness, we must strengthen our ties with Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and recite blessings constantly. The Lord will shower His Favours on us and return us to former glories. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

DEBT WAS REPAID

A devout follower of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam owed 500 dirhams. His situation was such that he was unable to repay the debt. He saw Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in his dream and explained his dilemma. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Go to Abul Hasan Kisaayi and tell him that I have sent you and to give you 500 dirhams. He lives in Nishaapur, is very wealthy, and he provides clothes to 10,000 poor people each year. If he asks for any sign tell him that you send a present of 100 blessings upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam every day, but yesterday you did not send the gift and did not recite the blessings.” The person went to Abul Hasan and presented his plight.

However, Abul Hasan did not pay any attention towards him, and asked, “Do you have any proof or sign that you were sent by Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam? The person replied, “Yes, I was sent to you by Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and gave me this sign as proof.” (He then relayed the fact about the blessings not having been recited the previous day). Upon hearing this, Abul Hasan fell from his throne onto the floor and performed a prostration of thanks in the Court of Allah Ta’ala. He then said, “O Darvaish, this was a secret between me and my Lord, no one else was aware of that deed of mine, and I was deprived of the honour of reciting blessings last night.”

Abul Hasan ordered that the person should be given 2500 dirhams and then said, “1000 dirhams is for bringing the good news and message from Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, 1000 dirhams is for taking the trouble to come here, and 500 dirhams is obeying the order of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.” He

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further went on to say that, “Whenever you have any need, come to me.” 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! You are well aware that if a person is delayed in repaying a debt, he loses respect. However, our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is so beneficent and compassionate that he protects the reputation and prestige of those who recite blessings upon him and enriches them with respect, as you will have realised from the incident mentioned above. Let us make it our habit to recite blessings every day. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

FISH RECITING BLESSINGS

A Hadith is reported in “Zuhratul Riyaaz” that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said he heard Jibreel ‘Alaihis Salaam say that ‘On this side of Mount Kaaf is a river which contains numerous fish. All they do is recite blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam. If a person catches one of these fish, his hands become numb, and the fish turns to stone in his hand.’

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! A fish that recites blessings upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam is protected from fishermen. If a believer recites blessings upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam constantly, and gains freedom from the Angels of Hell, we should not be surprised. 2

FREEDOM FROM HELL

Imam Tibraani has quoted a Hadith of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam in his book “Ausaat” in which Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam said, “The person who recites blessings on me will have the following written on his forehead: ‘This person is free from

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hypocrisy from this day, he has been given freedom from the fire of Hell and, on the Day of Judgement, he will be raised with the group of martyrs.’” 1 Therefore, we should recite blessings so that with the grace of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, we are raised with martyrs on the Day of Judgement. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

FREEDOM FROM BAD DEEDS

A person saw a man with a repulsive face in the jungle and asked him, “Who are you?” He replied, “I am your bad deeds.” The person asked, “Is there any method of obtaining freedom from you?” The one with the revolting face replied, “Recite blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Freedom from bad deeds is achieved through reciting blessings. Therefore, sacrifice some time each day and gain freedom from bad deeds. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

ESCAPE THE INTENSE THIRST ON THE DAY OF JUDGEMENT

One time, Allah Ta’ala said to Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam, “I want to tell you about a way to escape from the intense thirst that will be felt on the Day of Judgement.” Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam said, “I would very much like to know what that is.” Allah Ta’ala said, “Recite blessings in great quantity on My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.” 3

1 Shifa ul Quloob 2 Makashifat il Quloob Page 80 3 Masnad Imam Ahmad, Reference from Shifa ul Quloob Page 190

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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The intense heat of the sun on the earth makes a person extremely thirsty, and the heat of the hereafter will be much more extreme. Allahu Akbar! Whether a person is a Prophet or a Friend of Allah Ta’ala, everyone will need Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam on that day.

Allah Ta’ala told Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam the only way to avoid that powerful heat and severe thirst is to recite blessings upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. He is not only our Prophet, rather he is also the Prophet of the Prophets, and the blessings that are recited will be of benefit to all. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

RECITE BLESSINGS IN A LOUD VOICE

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “If a person recites blessings loudly, everything on the earth; stones, rocks, dirt, dry things, wet things, they all become witnesses on his behalf.” 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! When you hear the blessed name of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in a gathering, recite blessings loudly. Loudly means to recite it in such a way that others hear it, and are encouraged and become eager to recite it also. When you are out and about in the cities and in the wilderness, recite blessings loudly so that each thing becomes a witness for you. Recite blessing one time loudly… “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

BLESSINGS UPON HEARING THE NAME OF THE PROPHET Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam

It states in “Rauzatul ‘Ulama” that Imam Hasan Basri Rehmatullahe

Ta’ala ‘Alaih saw Abu Asma bin Nooh bin Maryam in his dream

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after he had passed away and asked him, “How did Allah Ta’ala treat you?” He replied, “Allah Ta’ala forgave me.” He was asked, “On the basis of what good deed were you forgiven?” Abu Asma bin Nooh bin Maryam replied, “Whenever I would quote any Hadith of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, I would always recite a blessing after it. Allah Ta’ala forgave me on the basis of that deed.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Sometimes, due to embarrassment or due to laziness, we are very miserly with reciting blessings. Remember, on the Day of Judgement, favour upon favour will be showered on us through these blessings that we recite. Those who desire forgiveness should never feel embarrassed, rather, whenever the name of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is mentioned we should recite blessings immediately.

It is reported in a Hadith that when you recite blessings, recite them loudly as this is like polishing. In other words, the rust of hypocrisy and the clouds of anger and suspicion are removed with this; and the heart obtains lustre and brightness. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Allah Ta’ala has given us all tongues in order to remember Him and to remember His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Therefore if you are requested to recite blessings loudly, or you hear the verse that orders us to recite blessings, then recite blessings loudly and grant your heart brightness.

SEEN IN A DREAM

A person called Matah was a great sinner and always gave in to and followed his desires. After he passed away, a pious Sufi saw him in his dream and asked him how he was. The person replied, “Allah Ta’ala has forgiven me.” He was asked what basis he had been forgiven on, and he answered, “I was at the gathering of a scholar and the scholar recited a complete Hadith with the chain

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of narrators. The scholar recited blessings upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam out loud, and when the people in the gathering heard it, they all recited blessings loudly too. Allah Ta’ala forgave all the people in the gathering through the grace of that blessing.” 1

According to the narration of the above incident by Imam Abdur Rahmaan Safoori Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih, the scholar mentioned above was relating a Hadith which states that if a person recites blessings out loud, Paradise becomes compulsory (Waajib) for him. Upon hearing this, the person recited blessings out loud. He has also reported another Hadith from the book “Mauridul ‘Adhaab”, which states that, “If a person recites blessings out loud in a cheerful voice, Angels that are in the high heavens joyfully recite blessings loudly.” Additionally, Imam Noodi ‘Alaihir Rahmah has written in the book “Al Athkaar” that to recite blessings and salutations in a loud voice is desirable (Mustahab). Hazrat Khateeb e Baghdadi and others have also explained this in detail. 2 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Blessings should be recited in a loud voice. However, remember that the voice must be moderate and reasonable. It must be pleasing, tender, melodious and sweet voiced. Reciting it loudly does not mean it should be recited at the same level of loudness that Adhaan is. 3 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Drown yourselves in love and recite blessings, especially in gatherings when the blessed name of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam is mentioned. You will see the benefits of this in both worlds. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

1 Qawlul Badee’, Reference from Aab e Kauthar Page 222

2 Nuzhatul Majaalis Vol 2 Page 419 3 Shifa ul Quloob Page 353

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WILL CONTINUE RECEIVING REWARDS

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has mentioned in a Hadith that, “The person who takes my name and writes blessings on me in a book, will continue to receive rewards as long as the blessing is in that book.” 1

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Hakam reports that he saw Hazrat Imam Shafi’ Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih in his dream. He asked the Imam how Allah Ta’ala had treated him. Imam Shafi’ Rehmatullahe Ta’ala

‘Alaih said, “Allah Ta’ala showed me great mercy and forgave me and decorated Paradise for me in the same way as a bride gets decorated and beautified. Diamonds were showered on me as they are showered on a bride.

I enquired as to why I was being given this honour. I was told by a voice that it is because of the blessing (Durood) that was in my book ‘Risaala.’ The blessing is “Wa Sallal Laahu ‘Alaa Muhammadin ‘Adada Maa Dhakarahudh Dhaakiroona Wa Ghafila ‘An Dhikrihil ‘Ghaafiloon.’”

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Hakam states that when he awoke, he looked in the book mentioned and saw that it was exactly as he had seen in his dream. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We have just read about a Hadith as well as the incident involving Hazrat Imam Shafi’ Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih. We realise that reciting and writing blessings are both means to obtain forgiveness and gain rewards. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to follow in the blessed footsteps of our pious predecessors, and may Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

REWARD FOR WRITING…

1

Roohul Bayaan Vol 11 Page 193, Kitab Ash Shifa Page 442, Naseem ur Riyaadh 2 Afzalus Salawaat ‘Alaa Sayyedus Saadaat Page 98

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Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Saalih Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states, “I saw a scholar in my dream and asked him how Allah Ta’ala had treated him. The scholar replied, ‘Allah Ta’ala has forgiven me.’ I asked him what basis he had been forgiven on. The scholar replied, ‘In my writings, whenever I would write the name of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, I would always make sure that I wrote ‘Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.’ It is because of this action that Allah Ta’ala forgave me.’” 1 May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen.

BLESSED WITH SEEING RASOOL ALLAH Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam

Hazrat Hamzah Kanaani ‘Alaihir Rahmah states, “I used to write many Ahadith, and would only write “Sallallaho Alaihi” after the name of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. One night Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam came into my dream and said, ‘Why do you not write the full blessing?’ When I woke from my dream I took it upon myself to make sure that I would always write ‘Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’ after writing his blessed name.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Many organisations that claim to be inviting people towards Islam and many so called “scholars” only write “s” or “saw” after writing the blessed name of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. These people should take heed and rectify their mistakes. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

A WRITER’S FORGIVENESS

There was a person in Kufa (a city in Iraq) who was a calligrapher and used to write books. One of his habits was that when he was printing any book that was written by others, any time he would

1 Sharh ul Sadoor 2 Qawlul Badee’, Reference from Ma’aarif Isme Muhammad Page 383

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see the name of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, he would add “Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam” and would recite the blessing with his lips. After he died, people saw him in their dreams and asked him how Allah Ta’ala had treated him. He replied that Allah Ta’ala had forgiven him, and the only reason he had been forgiven was that he used to write “Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam” and that he never failed or forgot to do this. 1 May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

HAND BECAME ROTTEN

It is reported that because of laziness, a person would not write blessings with the name of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. His hand became diseased, decayed and rotted.

Another person would only write “Sallallaho ‘Alaihi” after the name of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, he would not write “Wasallam.” One night, he was scolded in his dream by Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. He was told, “Why are you depriving yourself of forty rewards?” In other words, the words “Wasallam” is made up of four letters (in Arabic), and each letter grants ten rewards, and therefore writing the whole word grants forty rewards. It is also worth mentioning here that some people make do with just a symbol or a single letter instead of writing the full blessing. These people should also learn from this incident. 2

May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite correct blessings, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

TONGUE CUT OFF

It is stated in “Shifa al Asqam” that there was a writer who would replace the full blessing with a shorter version when he would write. Before he died, his hands were cut off. 3

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One person only used to write the blessing in short and before he died, his tongue was cut off. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! How long does it take to recite and write a blessing? If we are able to obtain this much reward for a little effort, then we are very fortunate. Therefore always make it your habit to read and write blessings. Favours and graces will rain down on you and we have seen the result of being lazy or forgetful. May Allah Ta’ala save us from laziness and stinginess and guide us to fill our book of deeds with rewards, Aameen “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

THIS IS DISLIKED

It is reported in Roohul Bayaan that to abbreviate the blessing or to shorten the blessing and only have a single letter or a couple of letters and to signify it’s meaning towards Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam is abominable (Makrooh).

Rule: Abbreviating and shortening words when writing blessings and salutations is also abominable (Makrooh). 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Never be miserly in terms of writing blessings upon our Master Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Rather, recite and write them cheerfully and you will feel happiness and contentment in your heart. Have no doubt that Allah Ta’ala will grant you happiness and contentment in both worlds as a result of those blessings, Insha Allah. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

DO NOT BE ANNOYED

1 Sa’aadat ud Daarain Page 131, Reference from Aab e Kauthar Page 248 2 Roohul Bayaan Vol 1 Page 193

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Hafiz Ibn Salaah states that you should not be annoyed or displeased about having to constantly write blessings with the name of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam because writing blessings is very much liked and rewarded. He further continues and states that do not be like the lazy, ignorant people and shorten the blessing. They shorten the full blessing and only write a couple of letters. The saying of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam should be enough for all of us and that is, “Angels supplicate for the forgiveness of the person who writes a blessing upon me in a book for as long as that blessing is in the book.” 1

Ibn Mahmood narrates an incident that happened to him. He states that he used to write the sayings of Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam and when he would write the blessed name he would merely write four letters (Su’aad, ‘Ain, Laam, Meem) and abbreviate the blessing. One night, he was blessed with seeing Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in his dream, and Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said to him, “Without writing the full blessing, the rest of your writing is useless and a waste of time.” He states that after that he would always write the full blessing. 2

With regards to the previous incident, the great scholar, Hazrat Shaikh ‘Abdul Haq Muhaddith e Dehlvi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Why are you depriving yourself of forty rewards?” In other words, the words “Wasallam” is made up of four letters (in Arabic), and each letter grants ten rewards, and therefore writing the whole word grants forty rewards. Some people make do with just a symbol or a single letter instead of writing the full blessing. The great scholar says that people should take a lesson from these incidents. 3 May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

1 Afzalus Salawaat ‘Alaa Sayyedus Saadaat Page 54 2 Shifa ul Quloob Page 326 3 Jazbul Quloob Page 276

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HOW WILL SUPPLICATIONS BE ACCEPTED?

Commander of the Faithful, Hazrat ‘Umar bin Khattab Radiallaho

Ta’ala ‘Anhu states that, “Supplications remain suspended between the earth and the heavens, they will not rise to the heavens until you recite blessings on your Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.” 1

Imam Baihiqi reports a Hadith narrated by Hazrat Jaabir Radiallaho

Ta’ala ‘Anhu in “Sha’bul Iman.” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Do not treat me like a traveller treats his bowl. A traveller places the bowl on the floor and picks up his belongings, and then if he wants to drink water he will pick up his bowl and drink water, otherwise he will pour the water out of the bowl and empty it. You should remember me at the beginning, in the middle, and at the end of your supplications.” (i.e. recite blessings on me). 2

Hazrat ‘Abdullah Ibn Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that, “I was performing prayer (Salaah) and Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam was there along with Hazrat Abu Bakr and Hazrat Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma. When I sat down I praised Allah Ta’ala, then I recited blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and then I began to make supplication (Du’a) for myself. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Ask, you will get it, ask, you will get it.” 3

May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

O PERFORMER OF PRAYER…ASK!

Hazrat Fazala bin ‘Abeed Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that, “Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam was present and a person came and performed prayer (Salaah). Then he said, ‘O Allah, forgive me and have mercy on me.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

1 Miratul Manajeeh Vol.2 Page 108, Mishkaat Shareef 2 Reference from Mutali’a al Masraat Page 102 3 Tirmidhi Shareef

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Wasallam said, ‘You have been hasty. When you sit after performing prayers, first of all praise Allah Ta’ala as He deserves to be praised, then send blessings upon me, and then supplicate.’” He further reports that, “Another person came and after he had performed prayers, he praised Allah Ta’ala and sent blessings upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘O performer of prayer, ask and it will be accepted.’” 1

We realise from this Hadith that no supplication (Du’a) is accepted without praising Allah Ta’ala and sending blessings upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, these two things are the conditions for all supplications to be accepted.

WINGS OF SUPPLICATIONS

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Supplications ascend towards the heavens, those supplications that have the wings of blessings (Durood) attached to them will reach the court of Allah Ta’ala.” 2

OTHERWISE SUPPLICATIONS ARE RETURNED

It is essential to praise Allah Ta’ala and send blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and the family of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam at the time of making any supplication. It states in a Hadith, “Until blessings are not sent upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and the family of Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam, there is a veil between the supplications and Allah Ta’ala. When blessings are sent upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam and the family of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, the veil is split and the supplication enters towards acceptance by the Lord, otherwise the supplication is returned.” 3

Hazrat Abu Sulaiman Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu states that the supplication that has blessings attached to it is accepted by Allah

1 Mishkaat Shareef 2 Ma’arejun Nabuwwah Vol 13 Page 333 3 Roohul Bayaan Vol 11 Page 199

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Ta’ala. Our other deeds may or may not be accepted, but reciting blessings is accepted in all conditions and at all times. Qazi Ayaaz has stated in “Kitaab Ash Shifa” that, “The supplication that is made in between blessings is never rejected.” 1

HOW SHOULD BLESSINGS BE RECITED?

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam stated, “When you recite blessings, recite them in a beautiful and elegant manner because your names, your father’s names, and the names of your families and tribes are presented to me.” Beautiful and elegant means to drown ourselves in love of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam when we recite blessings. 2

LESS THAN A MOSQUITO

Before reciting blessings, instil love and respect of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in your hearts, as the blessing that is recited without love and respect weighs less than the weight of a mosquito. It is reported in some narrations that, “Three things have no value in the Sight of Allah Ta’ala: (1) Prayer (Salaah) performed without presence of mind and heart. (2) Performing remembrance of Allah Ta’ala (Zikr) carelessly, that is, only with the tongue. (3) Reciting blessings upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam without respect and sincerity.” 3

We should recite blessings respectfully, with presence of heart and mind; do not let carelessness and laziness even approach us. Rather, imagine that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam is present in the gathering and keep in mind the status and rank of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. This should also be our state of mind when reciting blessings in prayer (Salaah). May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

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RASOOL ALLAH PRESENT IN THE HEART


Hujjatul Islam, Hazrat Imam Ghazali Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states that when we are sitting in prayer reciting “Tashahhud”, when we get to “Assalamo ‘Alaika Ayyuhan Nabi”, ensure that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is present in our heart and keep his rank and honour in mind and respectfully say “Peace and blessings be on you O Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, this worthless slave is presenting greetings of respect.” Say this with the tongue and have firm belief in our heart that this greeting is being presented in the court of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and he will reply to this greeting of ours according to his high status and rank. 1

Certain great scholars have stated that sending blessings with devotion are a means of closeness to Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam and a means to have supplications accepted. If a person recites blessings with the intention of obtaining nearness and proximity, he is granted closeness to Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam, just as closeness to the moon grants closeness to the sun, as the moon reflects the rays of the sun. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

TOTAL HUMILITY AND HUMBLENESS

Hazrat Waasti Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states that blessings should be recited with complete humility and humbleness. We should not count how many blessings we have recited as we should not limit the blessings we send upon our Beloved Master Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam. (If blessings are counted to ensure that pre determined quantities are recited then there is no problem). Never allow the thought to enter the mind or heart that we are fulfilling our rights,

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rather, always think that through these blessings, we will be rewarded and have mercy shown to us. 1

REWARD OF RECITING BLESSINGS WITH PRESENCE OF HEART

Reciting blessings is a worship that is accepted even if it is recited without presence of the heart. Hazrat Abul Mawahib Shazlee Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih saw Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in his dream and asked, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Allah Ta’ala blesses the person who sends one blessing upon you ten times. Is this just for those who recite it with presence of mind?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam replied, “No, this is for everyone who recites blessings, even if he recites it carelessly. If it is recited carelessly, Allah Ta’ala gives him a mountain full of Angels who supplicate for him and his forgiveness. The reward that is given to the person who recites blessings with presence of heart is not known by anyone except Allah Ta’ala.” 2

If blessings are recited with presence of mind and with humility and humbleness, the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala will rain down on us in droves and Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam will pay special attention to us. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

ADDING THE WORD “SAYYEDINA”

Imam Shamsuddin Ramli stated that to recite blessings with the word “Sayyedina” added is better, as this is obedient and respectful. Imam Ahmad bin Hajar ‘Alaihir Rahmah writes in “Jawaahirul Munzin” that there is no harm in adding “Sayyedina” before “Muhammad Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam”, rather,

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it is respectful and should be done even if it is in compulsory (Fardh) prayers. 1

Allama Shaami Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih has also declared it permissible in his book “Radd ul Mukhtaar.” Hazrat Shaikh ‘Ayaashee Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states that to add the word “Sayyedina” before the name of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam in prayer (Salaah) will attract the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala towards you. 2

It states in “Durr e Mukhtaar” that to add the word “Sayyedina” is desirable and the proof of that is a Hadith that is in “Bukhari Shareef” and “Muslim Shareef.”

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “I am the leader (Sayyed) of all the people on the Day of Judgement. I am the leader (Sayyed) of all the children of Adam ‘Alaihis Salaam on the Day of Judgement. I am not being arrogant, I am merely explaining a reality.” 3

May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

BETTER THAN ALL WORSHIPS

Reciting blessings is better than all voluntary (Nafl) worships. 4 Hazrat ‘Abdul ‘Aziz Dabaag Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states

that blessings recited upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam are always accepted, there should be no doubt about that, and reciting blessings is better than all other deeds that take us towards Paradise. 5

Hazrat Abul Laith Samarqandi Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu states that if you want to know if sending blessings is better than other

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worships, then ponder the fact that Allah Ta’ala ordered us to perform the other forms of worship (e.g. Prayer, Charity, Fasting), but when it comes to blessings, He states that He Himself sends blessings, then orders His Angels to send blessings, then orders all those with faith to send blessings upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam. 1

Hazrat Allama Hafiz Sakhaawi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih quotes Hazrat Imam Faakihee Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih who said, “If a sensible person is asked if he would prefer to have the good deeds of all the people in his book of deeds, or if he would like to receive blessings from Allah Ta’ala, he would always choose the blessings from Allah Ta’ala over anything else.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The worship that causes the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala to rain down in the ratio of ten to one, and Angels praying for the forgiveness of the person who is involved in this worship, is definitely better than all other worships. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

BETTER THAN REMEMBRANCE OF ALLAH TA’ALA

It is reported in “Riyazul Hasan” that reciting blessings is better than the remembrance of Allah Ta’ala. The evidence of this is that, in terms of the remembrance of Allah Ta’ala, it states, “You remember Me and I will remember you.“ However, in terms of blessings, it is reported that ‘If you recite blessings one time, I will recite blessings ten times.' In other words, ‘If you praise Me one time I will praise you one time, but if you praise My Beloved one time I will praise you ten times’. This is because the one who loves the beloved likes to hear the mention of his beloved, his praises, mentioning his qualities, and blessing him, more than he likes to

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hear his own praises. One who has someone that is beloved prefers to listen to the praise of the beloved rather than his own praise. 1

A PERFECT SPIRITUAL GUIDE

Shaikh Imam ‘Ali Muttaqi has reported, on the words of Shaikh Muddin Moosa Sufi in “Hakim ul Kabeer”, that when you find a perfect spiritual guide, the way to find closeness to Allah Ta’ala is to act upon the laws of Islam (Shari’ah) and constantly recite blessings on Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Reciting blessings will make your exterior bright with a great light and you will receive favours and graces direct from Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam. 2

Shaikh Sanoosi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states in “Sagraawi” that he had seen certain mystics (Sufis) who did not find perfect spiritual guides but through reciting blessings constantly, they achieved the status that is usually only obtained through a perfect spiritual guide.” 3

SHORTEST ROUTE

Hazrat Allama Yusuf Nibhaani Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih, states that the shortest path to reach the Court of Allah Ta’ala is reciting blessings upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. The person who does not recite blessings upon Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam and wants to enter the Court of Allah Ta’ala, will find that the lack of blessings will not allow the veil to be lifted, thus he will be unable to enter the Court of Allah Ta’ala. 4

LAPS ARE FILLED

Hazrat ‘Abdul Haq Muhaddith e Dehlvi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih reports that a pious person said, “From the word “Allahumma” to

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the words “Wa ‘Aalihi Wa Ashaabihi” is an ocean that has no shore. People of faith can dive into this sea of mercy and fill their laps with pearls and treasures. The deeper they go into this sea of mercy, the more spiritual treasures they will obtain.” 1 May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

AN INCIDENT

Abu Zaid Muhaqqiq Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih narrates an incident from Imam Jalaluddin Suyuti Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih that one night, he saw Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in his dream and asked, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, what state are Imam Ghazali, Bu ‘Ali Seena, and Ibn Khateeb in?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Listen! Ibn Khateeb is being punished, and Bu ‘Ali Seena is in difficulty. These people were

searching for closeness to Allah Ta’ala without me. No one is able to reach that destination without my intercession” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam praised Imam Ghazali tremendously. This incident is explained in detail in “Majlil Asraar” and Qurtubi has also reported it in his book “Sharh e Daleel.” 2

Hazrat Arif Saawi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih narrates that reciting blessings can grant a person closeness to Allah Ta’ala without a spiritual guide because in other religious incantations (Wazeefas), Satan can intervene and therefore, a spiritual guide is essential. However, with blessings, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is the guide himself and therefore Satan cannot intervene. 3

SEVENTY DOORS OF MERCY

Imam Sakhaawi ‘Alaihir Rahmah reports on the authority of Shaikh Majeeduddin Firozaabaadi with an authentic chain of narrators. Imam Samarqandi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih reports that, “I heard

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from Khizr and Hazrat Ilyas ‘Alaihimus Salaam, they used to say that they heard Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam say, ‘The person who recites ‘Sallallaho ‘Alaa Muhammad’, people will make that person their friend, even if they hate him. By Allah! People will not make that person their friend until Allah Ta’ala makes him His friend’ and we heard Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam say on the pulpit, ‘The person who recites ‘Sallallaho ‘Alaa Muhammad’ has opened seventy Doors of Mercy for himself.’” 1

BLESSINGS GUARD AGAINST BACKBITING

The same chain of narrators state that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam said, “If a person sits in a gathering and recites, ‘Bismillaahir Rahmaanir Raheem Wasallal Laahu ‘Alaa Muhammad’, Allah Ta’ala appoints an Angel to keep that person away from backbiting. When the person gets up from the gathering, if he recites ‘Bismillaahir Rahmaanir Raheem Wasallal Laahu ‘Alaa Muhammad’, Allah Ta’ala forbids people from backbiting against him.”

HONOURED WITH SEEING RASOOL ALLAH Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam

Hazrat Khizr and Hazrat Ilyas ‘Alaihimus Salaam stated that a person came to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam from Syria and said, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, my father is old, weak and has gone blind. He could not come here because he does not have the strength to walk, but his heartfelt desire is to see you.” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Tell him to recite “Sallallaho ‘Alaa Muhammad“ every night for one week and he will see me in his dream and report this from me.” The person did as he was told and was honoured with seeing Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in his dream. 2 May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

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SAVED FROM DISASTER

It is reported in “Shifa ul Asqaam” that Hazrat Naakahaani narrates an incident in his book “Fajr e Muneer” on the authority of Shaikh Abu Moosa Zareer Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih.

The Shaikh says, “We were on a ship with a large group of people, when suddenly, a great gust of wind and ominous looking, huge, dark, storm clouds appeared. The storm tossed the ship back and forth. The boatmen announced that it would be very difficult to survive this storm. The people on the ship started wailing and crying and everyone prepared for death. At that moment, I fell asleep, and was blessed with seeing Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in my dream who told me, ‘O Abu Moosa, tell the people on the ship to recite the following blessing one thousand times and you will all be saved.’

I woke up and told everyone and they all began reciting the blessing. We had only completed three hundred when the winds stopped and the ship reached the shore safely. Allahumma Salli ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Muhammadiw Wasallim Salaatan Tunajjeena Bihaa Min Jamee’il Ahwaali Wal Aafaati Wa Taqdee Lanaa Bihaa Jamee’al Haajaati Wa Tutahhiroona Bihaa Min Jamee’is Sayyi Aati Wa Tar Fa’oona Bihaa ’Indaka A’lad Darajaati Wa Tuballi Ghoonaa Bihaa Aqsal Ghaayaati Min Jamee’il Khayraati Fil Hayaati Wa Ba’dal Mamaat.” 1

AN INSPIRING INCIDENT

Imam Tibraani has quoted an inspiring and touching incident which is reported by the famous companion, Hazrat Zaid bin Thaabit Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu. He narrates that, “One morning we left our homes and went with Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. When we got to a crossroad in Madinah, we saw that a villager was walking with his camels’ nose string held tightly. When he

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got close to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam he said, ‘Peace, mercy and blessings be upon you O Prophet.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam replied to his greeting.

At that moment a person came running, stood in front of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and said, ‘Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, this villager has stolen my camel and is taking off with it.’ On hearing this, the camel let out a loud cry and as soon as Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam heard that he said, ‘Get away from me, the camel is testifying that you are lying.’ When he had left, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said to the villager, ‘When you were walking towards me, what were you reciting?’ He replied, ‘May my parents be sacrificed on you, I was reciting the following:

Allahumma Salli ‘Alaa Muhammadin Hattaa Laa Tabqaa Minas Salaati Shay’

Allahumma Sallim ‘Alaa Muhammadin Hattaa Laa Yabqaa Minas Salaami Shay’

Allahumma Baarik ‘Alaa Muhammadin Hattaa Laa Tabqaa Minal Barakati Shay’

Allahummar Ham ‘Alaa Muhammadin Hattaa Laa Tabqaa Minar Rahmati Shay’.’

Upon hearing this Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘I saw that the Angels had come to collect the words that were coming out of your mouth, and there were so many Angels that the whole horizon was covered in Angels.’” 1 “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

NEEDS FULFILLED

Imam Mustagfiri reports, on the authority of Hazrat Jaabir Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu, that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who recites one hundred blessings upon me each day

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and night will have one hundred of their needs fulfilled. Thirty needs of this world and the rest in the hereafter.” 1 May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings, Aameen.

FORGIVEN BEFORE STANDING UP

In the book “Sharwah Dalaail”, Ustadh Abu Bakr Muhammad Jabar Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih reports, on the authority of Hazrat Anas bin Maalik Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu, that Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who recites ‘Allahumma Salli ‘Alaa Muhammadiw Wa Aalihi Wa Sallim’ will be forgiven before he sits down, if he is standing. If he is sitting when he recites it, he will be forgiven before he stands up.” 2

THE PEN WILL BREAK

One day Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam was in Masjid e Nabvi. The Companions were gathered around Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam when a Bedouin arrived and greeted Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam gave the Bedouin preference over Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu, and made the Bedouin sit next to him. Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu said, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, I know that you keep me closer to you than anyone else in the world, but today you have made this Bedouin sit next to you, what is the reason for this honour and respect?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “O Abu Bakr, Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis

Salaam just told me that this Bedouin constantly sends blessings and salutations upon me, and uses words that have not been used by anybody to this day.” Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique Radiallaho Ta’ala

‘Anhu asked, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, what is that blessing?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam replied, “Allahumma Salli ‘Alaa Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Muhammadin Fil Awwaleena Wal Aakhireena Wafil Malaa Ikatil A’laa Ilaa Yaumid Deen.“

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Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu asked, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, tell me about the rewards of reciting this blessing?” The Beloved Prophet Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “If all the oceans in the world became ink, all the trees in the world became pens, all the Angels became writers, the oceans would dry up, the pens would break, but the reward of this blessing would not be fully written yet.” 1 May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

REWARD FOR RECITING SIXTY THOUSAND BLESSINGS

A person came to Hazrat Sultan Mahmood Ghaznawi ‘Alaihir

Rahmah and said, “I have been yearning for a chance to see Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam for a long, long time. My wish was that I would get a chance to see him in my dream and pour my heart out to him. I would keep my eyes closed and sleep all night in the hope that my wish would come true. Allah Ta’ala blessed me, and I was blessed with the honour of seeing Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in my dream last night.

I saw the blessed face that is like the radiant full moon and is the soul of the Night of Power. Upon seeing Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam happy, I said, ‘Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam, I am thousands of dirhams in debt, I am unable to re-pay this debt. I fear that I will die and this debt will be on my head.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘Go to Mahmood and he will re-pay your debt.’ I pleaded, ‘He will not believe me, give me a sign.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘Go and tell him that you recite thirty thousand blessings in the early part of the night, and then you wake up in the latter part of the night and recite thirty thousand more blessings. Tell him about this and he will re-pay your debt.’”

When Mahmood heard this message, he began to cry, confirmed this sign, repaid the debt and gave the person one

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thousand dirhams extra as a gift. The people in his court were shocked and said, “This person has said an unbelievable thing, yet you confirmed it. We are with you constantly, you have never recited this many blessings and it is not possible for someone to recite that many blessings in a night.”

Sultan Mahmood said, “You are correct, but I have heard scholars say that whoever recites the following blessing one time, it is as though he has recited ten thousand blessings. I recite that blessing three times in the early part of the night, and then I recite it three more times in the latter part of the night. In this way, I assumed I was reciting sixty thousand blessings each night. When this person gave me the message from Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, I have received confirmation of that blessing and the words of the scholars have been proven correct. That blessing is as follows: “Allahumma Salli ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadim Makhtalafal Malwaani Wa Ta’aaqabal ‘Asraani Wa Karral Jadee Daani Was Taqbalal Furqadaani Wa Balaga Roohahu Wa Arwaaha Ahli Baytihee Minnat Tahiy Yatu Was Salaamu Wa Baaraka Wa Sallam ‘Alaihi Katheeraa.“ 1

WHAT IS THE MOST DESIRABLE TIME TO SEND BLESSINGS?

There are certain times that are definitely more desirable in which to recite blessings; the day of Friday and the night before Friday (some have added the days of Saturday, Sunday and Thursday as well); morning and night; when entering and leaving the Mosque; when visiting the blessed resting place of Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam; at the mounts of Safa and Marwa; in the first “Tashahhud”, as there is reference to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam in it, therefore reciting blessings is either desirable or compulsory (depending on the Fiqh that you follow). Hazrat Imam Shafi’ has explained this in detail.

According to Imam Maalik, one should recite blessings in the final “Tashahhud” before supplication; in the sermon on Fridays and in the second sermon; when answering the call to

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prayer (you should repeat the words of the Mu’addhin as well); and at the time of Iqaamat; at the beginning, middle and end of supplication. According to Imam Shafi’, one should recite blessings after Du’a e Qunoot; and in between the Takbeers at Eid time; recite blessings in the funeral prayer; after finishing “Talbiyyah” (Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik); when meeting someone; when leaving; at the time of ablution; and when you lose something. According to one narration, you should also recite blessings when you sneeze; when beginning a speech and propagating; and before and after reading or reciting a Hadith Shareef.

All religious speakers, teachers, those who commentate on the Qur’an, those who present invitations of marriage and those who are getting married and those who are performing the marriage ceremony should all recite blessings. In magazines and publications, after writing Bismillaah Shareef, some people end books with blessings, and also before all important tasks are undertaken. In addition, recite blessings when you talk about Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam or are listening to someone talking about him or are writing about him. According to Hazrat Imam Hasan Basri, Imam Shafi’ and Imam Ahmad bin Hambal, if Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is remembered in voluntary (Nafl) prayers, reciting blessing is desirable.

There are many Ahadith about reciting blessings when Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is mentioned, Imam Bukhari has said that this is quite evident. Qawaasi has said that “Respect and reverence is when Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is mentioned, you should recite blessings.” 1 May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to recite blessings in abundance, Aameen. “Allahumma Salley ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Sayyedina Muhammadiw Wa Baarik Wa Sallim.”

TAUGHT BY RASOOL ALLAH Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam

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There is no doubt that the blessings which are found in the Ahadith are the best ones to recite, simply because they were taught by the blessed tongue of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam. Some scholars have stated that the best blessing is the blessing that is recited in prayer (Salaah) after “Attahhiyaat.” This blessing has been mentioned in many Ahadith with various details. It is sufficient for all needs, and is the most famous of blessings. It is as follows: “Allahumma Salli ‘Alaa Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Muhammadin Kamaa Sallayta ‘Alaa Ibraaheema Wa ‘Alaa Aali Ibraaheema Innaka Hameedum Majeed. Allahumma Baarik ‘Alaa Muhammadiw Wa ‘Alaa Aali Muhammadin Kamaa Baarakta ‘Alaa Ibraaheema Wa ‘Alaa Aali Ibraaheema Innaka Hameedum Majeed.“

This blessing has been mentioned in different words in many narrations and they have been compiled together by Imam Noowi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih, as they were all taught by Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Therefore, those blessings should also be recited as they are the words that have emanated from the blessed tongue of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.

Allahumma Salli ‘Alaa Muhammadin ‘Abdika Wa Rasoolikan Nabiyyil Ummiyyi Wa ‘Alaa Aali Muhammadiw Wa Azwaa Jihee Ummahaatil Mu’mineena Wa Dhurriy Yatihee Wa Ahli Baytihee Kamaa Sallayta ‘Alaa Ibraaheema Wa ‘Alaa Aali Ibraaheema Fil ‘Aalameena Innaka Hameedum Majeed.

Allahumma Baarik ‘Alaa Muhammadin ‘Abdika Wa Rasoolikan Nabiyyil Ummiyyi Wa ‘Alaa Aali Muhammadiw Wa Azwaa Jihee Ummahaatil Mu’mineena Wa Dhurriy Yatihee Wa Ahli Baytihee Kamaa Baarakta ‘Alaa Ibraaheema Wa ‘Alaa Aali Ibraaheema Fil ‘Aalameena Innaka Hameedum Majeeduw Wa Kamaa Yaleequ Bi ‘Azmatihi Wa Sharafihee Wa Kamaa Lihee Wa Ridaaka ‘Anhu Wa Kamaa Tuhibbu Wa Tardaa Lahu ‘Adada Ma’lumaatika Wa Midaada Kali Maatika Wa Ridaa Nafsaati Wa Zinata ‘Arshika Afdala Salaataw Wa Akmalahaa Wa Atammahaa Kullamaa Dhakarakadh Dhaakiroona Wa Ghafala ‘An Dhikrikal

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Ghaafiluna Wa Sallim Tasleeman Kadhaalika Wa ‘Alaynaa Ma’ahum. 1

NECESSARY GUIDANCE

It is better that along with the blessings (Salaat), you also recite salutations (Salaam), especially when the verse is recited from the Qur’an that orders us to recite blessings and salutations. Hazrat Ibrahim Nasfee Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states, “I saw Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in my dream and felt that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam was upset with me. I hurriedly presented my hand and kissed the blessed hand of Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam and said ‘Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, I am amongst those who is spreading the Ahadith, I am from the Ahle Sunnah, and I am a traveller.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam smiled and said, ‘When you recite blessings upon me, why do you not recite salutations?’ Hazrat Ibrahim Nasfee Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states, ‘After this I made it my habit to always write salutations along with the blessings, which is: “Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.” ’”

SOME MORE BLESSINGS & THEIR BENEFITS

DUROOD E RAZVIA

Sallallaho ‘Alan Nabiyyil Ummiyyi Wa Aalihi Sallallaho ‘Alayhi Wasallam

Salaataw Wa Salaaman ‘Alayka Yaa Rasool Allah. (Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam)

EXCELLENCE AND BENEFITS OF

DUROOD E RAZVIA

There are forty benefits of this blessing, which are proven from authentic and credible Hadith, and some of them are being mentioned here. The person who has love for Rasool Allah

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Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, who respects him more than the world and everything in it, who stays away from those who try and belittle his rank and respect, stays away from those who try to stop his remembrance, and is disgusted with the enemies of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam with his heart, such a person will have three thousand favours bestowed on him when he recites this blessing. Some of the other benefits are as follows:

He will have two thousand salutations bestowed on him.

Five thousand rewards will be entered into his book of deeds.

Five thousand of his sins will be wiped away.

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam will shake his hand on the Day of Judgement.

On his forehead will be written that he is not a hypocrite.

It will be written on his forehead that he is free from the fire of Hell.

Allah Ta’ala will keep him with the Martyrs on the Day of Judgement.

He will receive increased wealth.

His children and their children and their children will be blessed.

He will be victorious over his enemies.

Love for him will be put into people’s hearts.

He will be blessed with seeing Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam in his dream.

He will die with faith.

Intercession of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam will be made compulsory for him.

Allah Ta’ala will be pleased with him in such a way that He will never be displeased with him.

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This permission for reciting Durood e Razvia will be placed in the hearts of all people provided they stay away from misguided sects and misguided people.

METHOD OF RECITING DUROOD E RAZVIA

This blessed Durood is also called Durood e Jum’a. After Jum’a prayer, turn your face towards Madinah Munawwarah and stand with arms folded and with respect, and recite it one hundred times. It is better if a group of people recite it together. This one blessing is equivalent to ten blessings and the reward for each blessing is multiplied ten times. Therefore, if this blessing is recited one time, reward for one hundred blessings is awarded. Therefore if ten people recite it one time each together, each person receives one thousand rewards; one thousand sins are removed; one thousand good deeds are written, and divine favours are showered on each person one thousand times. All this is if it is recited only once, if it is recited one hundred times each; the rewards are multiplied one hundred times.

The people who know about this should ensure that they make their family, friends, acquaintances, and people who pray Jum’a prayers aware of it, so that there can be a substantial gathering of people to recite the blessing because the reward is multiplied by ten times for each extra person that is part of the gathering. The person who organises this or makes people aware of this will receive the reward of everyone multiplied by ten times, and the reward of the rest will not be reduced.

Understand it this way that ten people get together and recite it one time each. Each person will receive the reward for reciting it one thousand times. The person who brought everyone together receives ten times more than everyone else and therefore receives ten thousand rewards. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to perform this, Aameen.

When the quantity of blessings have been recited, raise your hands as you would for supplication; the Imam, or another appointed person, should recite the verses of the Shajrah. After that, recite Fatihah and present the reward to Rasool Allah

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Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, his Companions, his family, and all our pious predecessors. Next, recite the Supplication of Acceptance (Munaajaat), and then make supplication for yourselves. Ensure that you supplicate for all Sunni Muslims and for all of us to die with faith.

DUROOD E SHIFA SHAREEF

Allahumma Salli ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadin Tibbil Quloobi Wa Dawaa Iha Wa ‘Aafiyatil Abdaani Wa Shifaa Iha Wa Nooril Absaari Wa Diyaa Iha Wa ‘Alaa Aalihi Wa Sahbihi Wa Sallim. Translation: O Allah send blessings upon our Master Muhammad Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam who is the physician and the medicine of hearts; he is the safety and the curer of our bodies; he is the light in our eyes and it’s splendour, and send blessings and salutations on his family and his Companions. 1 Benefit: Physical and spiritual illnesses are cured.

DUROOD E HALLIL MUSHKILAAT

Allahumma Salli Wa Sallim Wa Baarik ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadin Qad Daa Qat Heelatee Adriknee Yaa Rasool Allah. Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam Translation: Oh Allah send blessings upon our Master Muhammad Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam, help me as my attempts and means have failed.

Benefit: The Mufti of Damascus, Haamid Aafandi Rehmatullahe

Ta’ala ‘Alaih was arrested one time and was in great trouble. The president was an archenemy of his. At night he was in great pain and difficulty when he suddenly fell asleep. Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam came into his dream, comforted him and taught him this Durood, and said when you recite this, Allah Ta’ala will ease

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your difficulties. He woke up, recited this Durood and the difficulties were removed.

Many of our noble predecessors in Islam would recite this blessing during difficulties. Allama Syed Ibn Aabideen has quoted the proofs and details of this in his “Fatawa e Shaami.” 1

Method of Reciting: The way to recite this is to perform fresh ablution after ‘Isha prayer and perform two rak’ats Nafl prayer. In the first raka’at, after “Alhamdu”, recite “Surah Kaafiroon” and in the second, after “Alhamdu”, recite “Surah Ikhlaas.” When completed, sit facing the Qibla in a place where you will be able to sleep. Repent with a true heart and recite “Astagfirullaahal ‘Adheem” one thousand times. After that, sit respectfully (as you would sit in Salaah), and imagine that you are pleading in the court of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Recite the Durood one hundred, two hundred, three hundred times; keep reciting it until you start to feel sleepy. When you feel sleepy, lie down and go to sleep on your right side, facing the Qibla. When you wake up in the latter part of the night, sit respectfully in the same spot and recite the Durood until Fajr prayer. When you are reciting, keep your need or difficulty that you want help with in your mind. Insha Allah, in one night or three nights, your desire will be fulfilled. If the final night is the night of Friday, that is better.

DUROOD E KAMAALIYAH

Allahumma Salli Wa Sallim Wa Baarik ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadinin Nabiyyil Kaamili Wa ‘Alaa Aalihee Kamaa Laa Nihaayata Li Kamaa Lika Wa ‘Adada Kamaa Lihee. 2

Benefits: 1) Reciting it one time earns the reward of reciting it seventy thousand times. 2) If a person suffers from loss of memory, they should keep reciting this between Maghrib and ‘Isha prayers, without a limit on quantity, Insha Allah this illness will be cured and memory will improve. 1 Afzalus Salawaat Page 154 2 Afzalus Salawaat, Page 191

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DUROOD E SA’AADAH

Allahumma Salli ‘Alaa Sayyedina Muhammadin ‘Adada Maafee ‘Ilmil Laahi Salaatan Daa Imatam Bidawaami Mulkil Laah. Translation: Oh Allah, send blessings upon our Master Muhammad Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in the quantity that is in Your knowledge, a blessing that is permanent, like the eternal dominion of Allah Ta’ala.

Benefit: Imam Suyuti Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes that reciting this blessing one time grants the recitor the reward of reciting six hundred thousand blessings. 1

Ham Ghareebon Key Aaqa Pey Bey Had Durood Ham Faqeeron Ki Sarwat Pey Laakhon Salaam

Countless Blessings On The Master Of Us Destitute Ones Upon The Fortune Of Us Beggars Millions of Salutations Of Peace

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To instil love for reciting Blessings Read & Teach

Barkaat e Shariat In your homes & Mosques for

5 minutes each day. Insha Allah you will gain closeness to

Allah Ta’ala & Rasool Allah (Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam)

(Author: Barkaat e Shariat)

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FFRROOMM EEVVIILL


Allah Ta’ala says in the Holy Qur’an:

“And let there be such a group among you, that they may call towards goodness and command what is just and forbid evil. And

the very same attained their goals.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Propagation of this religion of Islam, which changed the fortune of mankind, is an important and compulsory part of this beautiful religion. There should be people in this community who sacrifice themselves to spread this message of mercy to all corners of the 1 Surah Aal e Imran Verse 104 Kanzul Iman

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earth, otherwise this message of mercy will be limited to a few countries, and that is a great injustice not only to the message, but also to all those communities that are wandering in the darkness; those people whose dark nights are crying out for a bright message and are thirsty for a lantern of knowledge to reach them.

The communities that have already received this message are also at risk from the dirt of carelessness covering the mirror that is their heart. The heat of enthusiasm that they have can be cooled and dampened very quickly by laziness and lethargy. To ensure that this does not happen, it is essential that we sacrifice our time and our lives, and share with people our religious knowledge, wisdom, insight, spiritual guidance; anything that is needed by the community. If we, as a community, do not fulfil this important responsibility that we have been given, we will have to respond to the reasons for these failures in the Court of our Creator. History is witness to the fact that as long as people were ready for this sacrifice, it was forever spring in the beautiful garden of Islam. As long as our Islamic schools were producing Ghazali, Raazi, Sa’aadi, and Baizaawi, and our spiritual centres were producing Rumi, Hajveri, Ajmeri, Zakariya, Multani, Shaikh Sarhandi Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhum Wa ‘An Mashaa Ikhahum Wa Khalfaa

Ahum Wa Amthaa Lahum, producing personalities like this who were a source of pride and pleasure; the darkness and injustice of infidelity was continuously illuminated by the light of Islam, and truth kept conquering the forts of falsehood. However, the current era is so frightening that I do not have the strength to speak about it, and you do not have the stamina to listen to it. “O Allah, have mercy on us, O dweller of Gumbad e Khazra Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, provide a cure.” May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to invite to good and forbid from evil, Aameen.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE UMMAH


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“You are the best among all those nations that appeared unto mankind, you command to good, and forbid evil, and keep faith

unto Allah.” 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We realise from this verse that the Ummah of Muhammad Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has been created and sent onto the earth for a specific reason. That specific reason is inviting to good and forbidding from evil. Today, this Ummah is not acting upon this cause, rather, it appears that this Ummah hates goodness and loves evil. It is our responsibility to understand the reason for our creation, because the community that forgets its reason for being here is abandoned. The situation we are in today is totally void of inviting to good and forbidding from evil due to our carelessness. It is imperative for us to keep our reason for being created always at the forefront, and always invite to good and forbid from evil. If we do this, Allah Ta’ala will definitely look at us with mercy and grant us success in both worlds. May Allah Ta’ala guide us to always invite people to the truth, Aameen.

HAZRAT LUQMAN’S ADVICE ‘Alaihis Salaam

Allah Ta’ala says in the Holy Qur’an: (Hazrat Luqman ‘Alaihis Salaam said to his son)

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“O my son! Establish prayer and bid doing good and forbid evil and be patient over whatever befalls upon you. Undoubtedly,

these are affairs of determination.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The above verse of the Qur’an shows that Hazrat Luqman ‘Alaihis

Salaam told his son to establish prayer, order people to do good things, and forbid them from evil. We realise that as fathers, we should guide our children towards good deeds and should make them punctual in those things, which includes performing prayers and ordering towards good etc. However, it is a crying shame! Today, if a son is on the path of religion, the parents are not happy. If he goes to invite people towards religion, they are not happy. The situation is so bad today that may Allah have Mercy and Grace on us. Some parents recite the Holy Qur’an themselves, but do not encourage or force their children to recite the glorious Book of Allah Ta’ala, which leads to the child doing as he pleases. At the end of the day, it is the parents who have to carry the burden of shame. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to bring up our children in the light of the teachings of the Qur’an and Hadith, Aameen.

YOU FORGOT YOURSELF?


“Do you order righteousness to mankind and forget yourselves whereas you read the Book? Then, have you no sense?” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! From the above verse we learn that not only should we order other people to the truth and goodness, but we must also act upon it ourselves. We should correct ourselves and teach ourselves

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before attempting to teach and correct others. We should worry about the consequences of our deeds along with worrying about the benefits of the hereafter for everyone else. Usually our state is such that we correct others, yet we forget about ourselves.

We learn from the verse that the person who goes around inviting people to good and correcting them, but does not pay attention towards himself, has very little sense. May Allah Ta’ala, through the alms of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, guide us all to act upon the teachings of the Qur’an, Aameen.

RESPONSIBILITY OF MUSLIM MEN AND WOMEN

Our Lord and Creator states,

“And the Muslim men and women are friends to one another, bid for good and forbid evil and establish prayer and pay the poor-

due (Zakat) and obey Allah and His Messenger. These are they on whom soon Allah will have mercy. Undoubtedly Allah is,

Dominant, Wise.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The friendship that a Muslim should have with another Muslim is not just a question of talking, having sexual relations and business dealings; rather, believing men and believing women show their

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love for each other, and display their love of Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam with their actions and deeds. They regard inviting people towards good as their obligation, and ripping out all evil from its roots and destroying it is their reason for living. They want to see everyone as the embodiment of goodness, even if they themselves have to overcome countless difficulties to achieve this, because this was the desire of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. The happiness of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is all that matters in the universe; it is the reason for living for those who love Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and they are prepared to sacrifice their lives if that is what it takes. Did Imam Hussein Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu not sacrifice his whole household to ensure that evil was stopped? Did he not give his life and display brightly the difference between truth and falsehood? Alas! If only we would follow in his footsteps, our lives would also be spent in inviting to good and forbidding from evil. Let us ask Allah Ta’ala to give us the strength, guidance, and wisdom to invite people to good and forbid them from evil, through the alms of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen.

EVIL THINGS…

Allah Ta’ala states in the Glorious Qur’an,

“Whatever bad they did they did not prohibit one other among themselves. Necessarily, they used to do evil things.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Nowadays, the majority of men and women, no matter where they gather, do not get tired of backbiting, rudeness, dirty talk, lying, and talking about things that are forbidden by the laws of Islam. The responsibility of believers is that they should stop people who are engaging in these kinds of chat and explain to them politely. They should be taught about fear of Allah Ta’ala so that they refrain from forbidden chat. Instead of stopping others, if we join 1 Surah Maidah Verse 79 Kanzul Iman

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in with that kind of chatting, we will be the same as the people who are involved in this evil. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to act upon the teachings of the Qur’an, Aameen.

VERY WEAK FAITH

The Supreme Preacher, Prophet of Mercy Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “If you see any evil, stop it with your hands. If you do not have the strength to stop it with your hands, stop it with your tongue. If this is not possible either, then consider it evil in your heart, and this is the weakest level of faith.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s motive and desire is that peace should prevail in society. All the problems, troubles, and arguments that arise in society are all a result of evils that are committed by people. This is why we are told to stop them in whatever way we can. If we are able stop it with our strength then stop it, because sometimes no matter how much a scholar preaches and pleads, people will not refrain from evil. However, if a strong person or a community leader threatens them, they may see sense and refrain from evil. Whether it is the might of the fist, or the sweetness of the words, however it is done; stopping people from evil is the responsibility of each and every believer. Rather, it would not be wrong if I said that doing so would ensure our faith is safeguarded and secured. If one is not able to stop evil with the hands or the tongue, it is stated that the least one can do is think of it as evil. The danger is that if a weak person cannot stop evil with any of the two previous methods, and does not have the strength for this then the fear is that maybe he might get involved in that evil too. For this very reason, it is stated that at least think of it as evil, as this is the weakest level of faith.

If we look at society today, we see that most people are not even at the level of the weakest faith. Is it not true that we do not even consider evil to be evil anymore? Rather, it is a fact that when evil is seen, most of us say, “It’s ok, it happens, no big deal.” Ma’azAllah! Or we say, “Allah will forgive us.” For Allah’s sake,

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we should have some mercy on ourselves; and to safeguard our faith, we should think of any evil as evil. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to stop evil, safeguard ourselves from evil, invite to good, and to do good ourselves, Aameen.

SINS WILL NOT BE RECORDED

Hazrat Sayyedina Abu ‘Ubaidah bin Jarrah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu states that he asked Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, “Which martyr has the most respect in the Court of Allah Ta’ala?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The youngster who goes in the court of a tyrant ruler and invites him towards good deeds and forbids him from evil, and he is punished for this with death. Even if he is not killed, then as long as he is alive, his sins will not be recorded.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! A tyrant ruler gets intoxicated with the strength of the army, and does as he pleases. He oppresses the poor, abolishes rules for differentiating between the lawful the forbidden, pride and arrogance take hold of his heart and he begins to do as his heart desires. Even though he is indulging in many evil and wrong acts, no one is willing to confront him and attempting to stop his cruel, evil ways, due to the might of the army at his disposal. People fear that they will be killed, will be severely punished, will lose their jobs, or will be stripped of any privileges that they may enjoy. Everyone is fearful of the leader, but the greater threat lies in the fact that if the leader goes astray, there is a great risk that the community will also go astray, which is why Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “People will be on the religion of their leaders.”

If the leader or king is committing evil acts, then the subjects will also be involved in evil. If a person does not worry about the injustices of a tyrant ruler, and goes to him to invite him to good and forbid him from evil, it is evident what his punishment would likely be. It is reported that for this, he would probably be killed, but even if he is not killed, his sins will not be recorded for as long

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as he is alive. In other words, if he unwittingly commits a sin, Allah Ta’ala will forgive him.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! This does not mean that a person can go up in front of an evil, tyrant ruler one time, offer him some good advice, and then spend the rest of his life committing sins. Rather, he should always try and save himself from committing any act that is against the laws and commands of Islam. May Allah Ta’ala shower His Graces on us and guide us to save ourselves from sins, Aameen.

MERCILESS RULER

The Companion of the Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Hazrat Abu Dardaa Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that “Keep inviting to good and keep forbidding from evil. If you stop these things, then Allah Ta’ala will appoint such a ruler over you who will not respect your elders, nor will he show any mercy to your children. Your elders will complain of difficulties but they will not be heard, they will ask for help but no one will help them, and they will ask for forgiveness but they will not be forgiven.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Muslims all over the world are embroiled in difficulties, it seems like they are caught in a whirlpool and cannot escape. Lands and countries are being ruined, or wealth and children are destroyed; in short, there is no place where Muslims are able to live in peace. The only reason for this happening is that we cannot remember why we were created and we have totally forgotten why we came into this world. Even today, at this late stage, if we start inviting to good and forbidding from evil, Allah Ta’ala will return us to our former and lost glories, and we will be able to live our lives in peace and tranquillity. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to order people to goodness, and forbid people from evil, Aameen.

THE SUPREME MARTYR


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Hazrat Sayyedina Hasan Basri Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The most supreme martyr in my Ummah is the person who goes to a tyrant ruler, orders him to do good, and forbids him from evil, and for this reason, gets martyred. Such a martyr’s position in Paradise will be between Hazrat Sayyedina Hamzah and Hazrat Sayyedina Imam Ja’far Tayyar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! It is no simple task to go in front of a cruel and brutal ruler and speak words of truth. Neither is it within the capabilities of each and every person. This is the reason the reward for it is so exalted. Pious bondmen of Allah Ta’ala do not care about anyone and never fear to speak the truth, and the lives of our pious predecessors are witness to this. May Allah Ta’ala give us all the guidance to speak the truth, to hear the truth, and to support the truth, Aameen.

COMPULSORY FOR A BELIEVER

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “All Prophets that came in to the world had companions who lived their lives according to the books of Allah Ta’ala and the teachings of the Prophet’s ‘Alaihimus Salaam, and this system continued with all the Prophets. After the generations of the Companions, people will come who will speak very nicely from the pulpits but will commit evil deeds. At that time, it is necessary for all believers, and it is their duty to struggle against these people with their hands. If they are unable to confront them with their hands, then they should do it with their tongues. If they are unable to confront them with their tongues, they have very weak faith.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We realise from the above Hadith that if one invites to good, forbids from evil, but does not practice these himself and is involved in sins and evil deeds, it is imperative upon us to reform and correct him with whatever means necessary. If it is possible with the hands, we should use our hands. If we are unable to use

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our hands, we should stop them with our tongues, because if a propagator himself becomes a victim of immorality, the population will also follow in his footsteps; the end result being that society will be trapped in a cesspool of evil. If we are unable to stop them with our hands or your tongues, we should at least think of their actions as evil in our mind and heart, as this is the weakest level of faith. We ask Allah Ta’ala to look at us with Grace and guide us to spread goodness and to eliminate evil, Aameen.

CURSING AND SWEARING AT EACH OTHER

Sayyedina Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “When my Ummah begins to consider the world as the most important thing, the awe and admiration of Islam will leave their hearts. When they stop inviting to good and forbidding from evil, they will be deprived of the blessings of the revelations. When they start cursing and swearing at each other, their status and value will drop in the Sight of Allah Ta’ala.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! All three of the faults and evils mentioned above are present in Muslims today. There is so much love for the world that nothing is desired more than the world and its possessions. It seems as though we are going to live in the world forever, and do not have to ever leave the world. All our efforts and hard work are towards obtaining this world; the concept of dying and having to answer for our deeds has completely left our minds and hearts. You can see this everywhere in today’s society and culture. Similarly, not inviting and ordering people to good, and not forbidding them from evil has also become a part of the culture in our society. Cursing and swearing at each other has also become our identity, rather, even most of our ladies and small children are in the habit of cursing and swearing. This is the reason that we have fallen in the Sight of Allah Ta’ala, and when someone falls in the Sight of Allah Ta’ala, no one can lift them up.

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The awe and admiration of Islam has left our hearts because we have replaced it with love of this world. We are not receiving the blessings of the Qur’an for we have forgotten our responsibility and duty of inviting to good and forbidding from evil. We have fallen in the Sight of Allah Ta’ala, as our mouths and lips are forever busy with cursing and swearing. For Allah’s sake! We must get rid of the above-mentioned three evils and shortcomings, and attempt to make your futures brighter and better. May Allah Ta’ala guide us and bless us all, Aameen.

SUPPLICATION (DU’A) WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED

The Mother of Believers, Hazrat ‘Aisha Siddiqua Radiallaho Ta’ala

‘Anha, narrates that, “Once Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam came home. From the expression and look on his face, I realised that something important had happened. Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam did not talk to anyone, performed ablution, and went to the Mosque. I stood by the wall of the room in order to hear the words of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. He went onto the pulpit and praised Allah Ta’ala and then said, ‘O People, the Almighty’s command is to order to good and forbid from evil, or the time will come when you will make supplications, but they will not be accepted. You will ask Allah Ta’ala for something, but it will not be granted; you will seek assistance and help against your enemies, but you will not be helped.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam said these words and then stepped down from the pulpit.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We are all aware of the difficulties that we are mired in today. We cry profusely when making supplications but they do not reach the level of acceptance. We ask Allah Ta’ala for victory but there is no help forthcoming. Why is this? In the Hadith, the King of the Worlds Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, has provided the answer to this. The reason is that we are not fulfilling our duties and responsibilities in terms of inviting to good and forbidding from evil, and therefore Allah Ta’ala is not accepting our

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supplications. If each and every Muslim would begin to fulfil this right and responsibility, the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala would look at us with love and affection, would accept our supplications, and would assist us with help from the hidden. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to fulfil our duties and obey His commands, Aameen.

CONTINUE ORDERING TO GOOD

The famous Companion Hazrat Anas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that they asked Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, “Should we order people to do good once we are completely acting upon this ourselves, and should we forbid from evil once we have completely eradicated evil from our lives?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Continue ordering to good even if you are not able to act upon that completely yourselves, and continue stopping people from evil even if you have not been able to give up sins completely.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We learn that we should always invite and order others towards goodness and forbid and turn them away from evil. If we continue to invite to good, then sooner or later the thought of always doing good will remain in our hearts. If we always forbid others from evil, then the heart will definitely one day tell us to refrain from all evils ourselves too. We should always attempt to save ourselves from evil and should always invite all people towards goodness and forbid them from committing evil acts and evil deeds. May Allah Ta’ala guide us to always invite others to good and to forbid them from evil, Aameen.

BECOME PATIENT

A pious person gave advice to his sons in the following manner. “When any of you wishes to invite others to goodness, you should make your soul tolerant and patient; and have hope of receiving


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reward from Allah Ta’ala, as the person who has faith and trust in Allah Ta’ala will never be embroiled in difficulties.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! At the time of inviting people to goodness, we should never worry about what others may think or what they might say. O guardians of the religion of truth! You will have to withstand many difficulties on the path of teaching and propagating. Sometimes fun will be made at the way in which you preach and propagate; other times you may be insulted because you were not able to act upon your own teachings fully. Therefore, instil in yourself the ability to withstand all attacks and all insults, remain steadfast and patient, and Allah Ta’ala will protect you from all difficulties and will shower you with the blessings of both worlds. Beware! Do not let the insults or criticisms of people stop you from inviting people towards goodness. Rather, endure the taunts and continue doing this noble work, Allah Ta’ala will bless you and will give you success. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

PARADISE IS DECORATED

Hazrat Abu Dhar Ghaffari Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu states that Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu asked Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, “Is there any Jihad other than fighting against polytheists?”

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “O Abu Bakr Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu! There are certain warriors that live on Allah Ta’ala’s earth who are more superior than martyrs; they walk and travel on the earth, receive sustenance, Allah Ta’ala expresses pride amongst the Angels about them, and Paradise is decorated for them as Umm e Salma Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anha was decorated for Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.” Hazrat Sayyedina Siddique e Akbar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu asked, “Who are those people?” The King of the Worlds Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “They are those who invite to good, forbid from evil, make friends for the sake of Allah Ta’ala, and make enemies for the sake of Allah Ta’ala.” 2

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OCEAN…AND…DROP IN THE OCEAN

The Companion of the Cave, Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique Radiallaho

Ta’ala ‘Anhu, narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “There is no community that does not commit sins and denies the fact that Allah Ta’ala will send punishment on them that will embroil the whole community.” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam also said, “All good deeds are like a small drop in the sea compared to struggling in the path of Allah Ta’ala (Jihad). Other good deeds are like a tiny drop in a great ocean compared to inviting to good and forbidding from evil.” 1

SUCCESSORS (CALIPHS) OF ALLAH TA’ALA

Hazrat Hasan Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu states that ‘The person who invites to good and forbids from evil is the Successor (Caliph) of Allah Ta’ala, His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and the Successor of His Glorious Book. If Muslims stop preaching and inviting to good, a ruthless ruler will be appointed over them and their supplications will not be answered.’ 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Oppressors and tyrants rule almost the whole world nowadays and those who are appointed to rule over Muslims are no different. These unjust rulers have caused the storm of injustice and discrimination to rain down on Muslims. The Muslims who are the helpless victims of these leaders try and confront these tyrants according to their strength, but are sometimes powerless and are forced to cope with the injustices.

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has told us that when Muslims stop inviting towards good and forbidding from evil, this is what will happen. This lack of action has caused us to be ripped apart by cruel leaders and rulers. If we attempt to fulfil this responsibility of ours diligently and faithfully, Insha Allah, we

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will obtain freedom from these ruthless leaders. May Allah Ta’ala look at us with Grace and guide us all, Aameen.

SUPREME STRUGGLE

Hazrat Sayyedina Abu Bakr Siddique Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu states, “O People! Invite people to goodness, forbid them from evil, and your lives will be peaceful and serene.” Hazrat Sayyedina ‘Ali Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu states, “Preaching and propagating is the supreme struggle.” 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Sayyedina Abu Bakr Siddique Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu has shown us the method of obtaining a better, peaceful life. A person’s life will be peaceful when he worries about others; wants them to be better off; invites towards and teaches them about goodness; tries to remove the love of sins and evils from their hearts; explains things to them nicely; then for all these reasons, people will begin to love such a person and become attached to him wholeheartedly.

They attempt to make all his work easier and help him in any way they can. You will have seen that such people have great respect in society and people consider it an honour to be able to serve them in any way they can. The only condition is that the work is done sincerely and genuinely. May Allah Ta’ala give us all the guidance to fulfil our responsibility in terms of preaching eloquently and beautifully, Aameen.

MARRIED TO THREE HUNDRED MAIDENS OF PARADISE

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “I swear by the Lord in whose control is my life, the person who invites to good and forbids from evil will be in the most exalted dwelling place in Paradise. His dwelling place will be higher than that of martyrs' palaces, with three hundred doors of emerald; each door will be full of light, and there will be three hundred fair maidens in the palace whom he will be married to. When he looks at any one of 1 Tafseer e Kabeer

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the fair maidens, she will say, “Do you remember the day when you invited people to good and forbid them from evil?” Another one will say, “Do you remember the place where you forbade from evil and invited to good?” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Allah Ta’ala has reserved a great, exalted position for those that invite to good; a palace more exalted than the palaces of martyrs. Subhan Allah! The words of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam are true, and in return for preaching goodness, the reward will not only be Paradise, but will be a dignified and honoured position in Paradise.

All the promises made by Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam will certainly be fulfilled. When this is the reward for inviting to good that will be granted in Paradise, Allah Ta’ala will also grant reward for it in this world. Invite to good, act upon good, dislike evil, and prevent others from doing evil deeds and you will be blessed with the treasures of both worlds by Allah Ta’ala, Insha Allah. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to act upon this, Aameen.

KEYS OF GOODNESS

Hazrat Sahal bin Sa’ad Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “There are treasures of goodness, and there are keys to the treasures. Good news is for that person whom Allah Ta’ala has made the key for opening the treasures of goodness and locking the vices of evil. Destruction is for the person whom Allah Ta’ala has made the key for opening evils and locking goodness.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! From the above Hadith, we realise that if a person is inviting to goodness, he is opening the treasures of happiness and goodness. If he forbids from evil, it means Allah Ta’ala has made him the key to lock up evil. When Allah Ta’ala has made us the keys to open up the treasures of goodness, let us open them up

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and lock up evils. May Allah Ta’ala give us all the guidance to do this always, Aameen.

ONE YEAR’S WORSHIP

Hazrat Sayyedina Moosa Kaleem Ullah ‘Alaihis Salaam appealed to Allah Ta’ala and said, “O Lord! What is the reward for someone who orders his brother to goodness and forbids him from evil?” Allah Ta’ala stated, “For each word he says, one year’s worship is written, and My Mercy is ashamed to see him burning in the fire of Hell.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Allah Ta’ala bestows amazing graces; one year’s worship is granted for each word spoken, and the grace upon the grace is that Allah Ta’ala’s Mercy is shameful of burning such a person in the fire of Hell. Will we still not try and gain rewards and get freedom from the fire of Hell by inviting to good and forbidding from evil? Let us all make intention that Insha Allah, we will attempt to do this from today. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

EQUAL REWARD

Hazrat Sayyedina Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who invites others towards goodness receives the same reward as those who follow his teachings, without the reward of those who follow being reduced. The one who invites towards evil has sins written equal to all those that act upon that evil, without their sins being reduced at all.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Do you see how much reward there is for inviting to goodness? Allah u Akbar! If someone keeps acting upon your advice, tells others about the message you gave, as long as they act

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upon your teachings, you will be rewarded as much as all of them by Allah Ta’ala.

A similar thing is mentioned about inviting people to evil. If someone does evil, based on your advice or teachings, you will receive as many sins as everyone that acts upon that evil. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to do good and to invite everyone only to goodness; and guide us to stay away from evil and inviting others to evil, Aameen.

DEEDS OF FIFTY MUSLIMS

Rasool Allah Sallalaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Invite to good and forbid from evil until you see that greed is being obeyed, people are pursuing their carnal desires, the world is given more importance than religion, and all people have arrogance and pride in their opinions. When you see such a time, and see that there is no alternative, protect your desires, save yourself from sins, and leave the rest of the people to their deeds (at that time, inviting to good and forbidding from evil is not necessary). You will have to show lots of patience and being patient will be as difficult as trying to hold red-hot ash in your hands. The reward for one who does good deeds at that time will be the same as the deeds of fifty people.” People asked, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, “Will it be the same reward as fifty other people of that time?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam replied, “No, it will be the same reward as fifty of you (The Companions).” 1

THE BEST STRUGGLE (JIHAD)

Hazrat Sayyedina Abu Sa’eed Khudri Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “To speak the word of truth against a tyrant, oppressive ruler is the best struggle.” 2

RIGHTS OF THE PATHS

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Hazrat Sayyedina Abu Sa’eed Khudri Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Avoid sitting in the lanes and paths. The Companions said, ‘Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam, sometimes it is necessary for us to have a gathering to discuss certain things.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam replied, ‘If you must assemble a gathering, then fulfil the rights of the paths.’ The Companions asked, ‘O Beloved of Allah Ta’ala, Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, what are the rights of the paths?’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam answered, ‘Keep your gaze lowered, avoid causing difficulties to others, reply to the greetings, and invite to good and forbid from evil.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Wherever we look today, whether it is on the streets, outside schools, in colleges, or in the market places, we see groups of youths everywhere; hanging out together, harassing ladies, causing disturbances and being a nuisance. Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam has given responsibilities to those who are out and about on the streets and roads. They are that gazes must be kept lowered, no one must be harassed, if someone greets you, reply to them, invite to good and forbid from evil; these are the rights of the paths and roads. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to understand these responsibilities and act upon them, Aameen.

GET RID OF EVIL

Hazrat Sayyedina Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Every person is the mirror of his Muslim brother. If you see any evils or wickedness in it, get rid of them.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The teachings of Islam can be understood by looking at Muslims. If a Muslim pays attention to the laws of Allah Ta’ala, and acts upon the teachings of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, then other Muslims will be encouraged to improve themselves and do likewise when they see him, which is why it is

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stated that a Muslim is the mirror of his fellow Muslim. If dirt or grime gets on the mirror, we clean it right away so that we can see our faces clearly in the mirror. In the same way, if you see any shortcomings in a Muslim, try and get rid of them from him just as you would get rid of any shortcomings in the mirror.

May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to be better Muslims and to help each other become better Muslims, Aameen.

PUNISHMENT TO ALL

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Due to the presence of certain special people, Allah Ta’ala does not punish everyone. However, if there are evil things being done there, and they have the ability to forbid them but do not, then Allah Ta’ala will punish everyone.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! In many places today, even though we have the ability to stop evil, we do not stop or forbid it. The only reason we do not stop it is that we fear our ties with people will suffer or be broken. Beware! According to the words of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, when the punishment of Allah Ta’ala arrives, it will not only punish the sinners, it will also punish those pious people who did not attempt to stop the evil even though they had the ability and strength to do so. Therefore, if we want to save ourselves from the punishment of Allah Ta’ala, we must struggle and strive to stop and forbid evil to the best of our ability. May Allah Ta’ala save us all from punishment and guide us all to stop others from committing evil, Aameen.

REASON FOR BEING CURSED

When the Bani Israel committed sins, their scholars prohibited them but they did not listen and continued committing sins. Later on, the scholars started sitting in their gatherings and started to eat and drink with them also. Their hearts became just like the sinners’ hearts and the blessed tongues of Hazrat Sayyedina Dawood and Hazrat Sayyedina Isa ‘Alaihimus Salaam cursed them

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because they disobeyed, transgressed and exceeded the limits. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “By Allah! Either you order people to good, forbid them from evil, stop injustices by tyrants and bring them back to the truth, otherwise, Allah Ta’ala will make all your hearts the same and you will all be cursed just like all these were cursed.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We should always stop people from committing evil deeds. If they do not listen to our advice, we must not give up. Rather, we should keep explaining and try to make them see sense. If, after all our best efforts, they still do not reform, we should avoid their gatherings and their company; otherwise our hearts will become forgetful like theirs, and we will be guilty of earning the displeasure of Allah Ta’ala, may Allah Ta’ala protect us. May Allah Ta’ala always be pleased with us and may He guide us to do deeds that always earn His Pleasure, Aameen.

WHOLE CITY RUINED

Hazrat Jaabir Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Allah Ta’ala ordered Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis Salaam to destroy a city on top of its inhabitants. He pleaded, ‘There is a specific servant of Yours in that city O Lord, who has not disobeyed You for even a blink of an eye.’ Allah Ta’ala said, ‘Turn the city upside down on him and the rest of them, because his face did not change for Me for even one second.’” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! If we do good deeds, but we see others committing sins and evil deeds, yet we do not attempt to stop them or convince them to stop according to our strength, Allah Ta’ala will punish the pious people with the same punishment He punishes the sinners with. Therefore, our responsibility is not only to be pious and obedient ourselves, rather it is to attempt to make sure the entire community and society is pious and obedient, just as Allah Ta’ala has said in the Holy Qur’an, “Save yourselves and your

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family members from the fire…“ 1 May Allah Ta’ala guide us to fulfil our responsibilities properly and diligently, Aameen.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The fortunate, lucky, and intelligent person who understands his reason for living, and prepares to undertake the mission of preaching, should reform and correct himself with the first step that he takes. The reason for this is that until and unless there are certain qualities present in him, and until he is punctual in following the blessed Sunnah of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, there can be no hope of him reforming or correcting others. Therefore, it is critical that attention is paid to correcting oneself before attempting to correct others.

To be a successful preacher and envoy (Muballig), on the one hand it is necessary to be personally punctual in the Sunnahs, be pious and have an exemplary character. On the other hand, he must also have those qualities that will enable him to live amongst others and transport those virtues into others through his character. This is critical on the road of preaching and inviting, as the person who does not correct and better himself will not be able to reform others.

Let us look at the qualities and virtues that are needed in the character and life of an envoy of the religion; qualities which will improve and illuminate his life in such a way that upon seeing him and spending time with him, love for and obedience of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam will be born in the hearts of others.

SINCERITY

To be sincere means that every step we take must be for the Pleasure of Allah Ta’ala and Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. The heart should be pure of seeking fame, wanting respect, power, or wanting a title before our name. Allah Ta’ala says in the Holy Qur’an,

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“...And Allah and His Messenger had greater right, that they should please him...” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Whether the world praises us or curses us, we should ignore it and always remember that our living, our dying, rather, our very being is for the Lord alone, and for the victory of Islam. If Allah Ta’ala, through the alms of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, grants us success; if lost souls start to tread on the path of righteousness and goodness and seek forgiveness of their past sins, we must not think of this as our achievement or success. Rather, we must always have the faith that Allah Ta’ala alone is the One who changes hearts and it is with His Grace that this was possible, and it is His Mercy and His Blessings that He made us a means of passing on the message. All qualities and beauties are for Allah Ta’ala alone.

Always remember that success and failure is from Allah Ta’ala alone. Thank Allah Ta’ala for all successes and try even harder if we fail. Look for the reason why we failed; was it lack of sincerity? Shortage of deeds? Forgetting the aim? Laziness in worship? These are the things that lead to failure, otherwise no efforts go un-rewarded by Allah Ta’ala. Our Creator says in the Holy Qur’an,

“And that the man will not get but what he endeavours.” 2

Being disheartened or upset when failing is not the manner of believers. Sooner or later the Lord of the Worlds will definitely grant us success, because it is his promise,

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“…You are the very same who shall overcome if you have faith.” 1

We should work on behalf of Sunni Dawat E Islami, spread its message, make known its aims and objectives, solely for the Pleasure of Allah Ta’ala and His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam. There should be no reason other than this as the Holy Qur’an says in relation to this,

“…Being exclusively one sided.” 2

We realise that our actions and deeds should be only for our Lord; there should be no other hidden or apparent purpose or intention.

“He only seeks the pleasure of his Lord Who is the Most High “ 3 The Prophets ‘Alaihimus Salaam always announced that there was no worldly or personal profit for them in what they were preaching and propagating, “And I ask you for no reward for it, my reward is only with the Lord of all the worlds.” Hazrat Nooh ‘Alaihis

Salaam also made the same announcement that is safeguarded in the Holy Qur’an,

“And O people! I ask no wealth on it from you. My reward is only with Allah…” 4

Our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, through whose grace and benevolence we have been granted the honoured position of preaching this religion, was told by Allah Ta’ala to describe the state of his heart. Therefore, the Qur’an says,

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“Say you, ‘if I might have asked you some reward against it, then it is yours.' My reward is only upon Allah, and He is witness over

everything.” 1

In other words, ‘The Supreme Lord Who is the Knower of all things hidden is aware of my intentions; that they are not for any profit, but solely for Him.’

Similarly, at another point, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is told to explain the reason for inviting people to the religion and to Allah Ta’ala,

“Say you, 'I ask of you no wage for this but whosoever wills may take a way towards his Lord.” 2

In other words, ‘If you want to know the reason for this effort of mine, this struggle and endeavour, it is none other than the fact that you people accept the truth.’

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! In light of the verses mentioned above, it must be quite clear and plain for everyone to see that sincerity is the most important quality that is needed in preaching and propagating. Even in worldly matters, sincerity is the foundation for success. No matter how great a job someone does, if it becomes known that he did it for reasons of personal fame or profit, the value of that work immediately falls in the eyes of people. We should always keep the following verse of Sarkaar Sayyedi A’ala Hazrat Imam Ahmad

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Raza Khan Faazil e Bareilly Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih in our minds and hearts:

Take That Work Which Pleases You May The Name Of Raza Be Well… Millions Of Blessings Upon You.

May Allah Ta’ala fill us with the wealth of sincerity, through the alms of His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and grant us the enthusiasm and eagerness to propagate and preach the religion of truth, Aameen.

ISLAMIC IDEALS

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! When explaining the religion to people, it is necessary for an envoy (Muballig) to explain that the religion is not just a bunch of rituals or customs. It is essential for an envoy to explain in such a way that the complete code and way of life, which is Islam, reaches the minds and hearts of the listeners. Our thoughts and attitudes should only be Islamic, extreme care must be taken to ensure that non-Islamic ideas or thoughts do not enter our minds. We should always remember that Islam is a complete way of life; there is no facet of life that is not covered by this code and way of life. It gives a message to reform characters, gives complete laws to ensure fairness and justice for all, and shows how to earn lawful sustenance along with its principles. Islam satisfies the thirst in all aspects of people’s lives; it does not leave them thirsty at any point.

It is crucial to strengthen ties with the Qur’an and the Hadith of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam when spreading the teachings of Islam, as our religion is not a religion of superstitions and suppositions. If Allah Ta’ala has granted us the wisdom and knowledge to solve our issues and questions from the Qur’an and Hadith ourselves, then that is a great blessing, Alhamdo Lillah. If not, we should benefit from the knowledge of those who have been granted closeness to the Qur’an and Hadith.

Islamic values and principals should be evident in all aspect of our lives, from our domestic life to business dealings and all in

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between, and we should have total faith and satisfaction in them. We should attempt to spread these values and standards in all directions. To ensure that we are clothed in the Islamic values and ideals, we should meet with the scholars of Islam. Spending time in their company, with respect, will make it evident to us how to live according to Islam. Visiting the shrines of the Friends of Allah Ta’ala and learning about their lives will be very beneficial and will lead to success, Insha Allah Ta’ala.

What should be done for the betterment of Islam and Muslims in any part of the world, and what Islamic activities are currently being carried out there? What is being done for Islam? You should try and obtain the answers to these questions. You should always spread the message about the aims and objectives of the organisation to all people. This organisation, with which we are attached, is spreading the message of following in the Sunnahs of and obedience to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam worldwide, and many countries around the world are currently waiting for our preachers to reach them. Remember! If we do not turn the thoughts of those Muslims around us towards Islamic principles and ideas, then Allah Ta’ala will hold us accountable. Therefore, we should try and reform all those who we meet and allow them the opportunity to understand the organisation properly. There is no way that he can understand us totally in the first meeting, and neither can we understand him in a single meeting. The more we meet with him and the closer he gets to us, the more love for Islam will be ignited in his heart, along with hatred and revulsion for sins and prohibited things.

In this way, the number of colleagues will increase and then the thirst of those who are dehydrated can be quenched with love of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. This can only be possible when we become living, walking examples of what we are preaching.

“The best person is one who is aware of his faults and shortcomings, and attempts to correct them.”

We should be like surgeons; a surgeon does not hate the patient, he hates the disease that is killing the patient. If we see someone

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that is embroiled in sins, we should attempt to make his life on earth and the hereafter better because he is a follower (Ummati) of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. If our advice, guidance, and recommendations reform him, then as long as he is drowned in love of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, he will continue to supplicate for your forgiveness.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Islam teaches us that we should like for our fellow Muslims what we like for ourselves. We desire that we should go into Paradise, therefore, we should make sure that we attempt to reform those brothers and sisters who are living their lives in sin, and take them with us into Paradise. If Allah Ta’ala has guided us to worship Him, we should not boast about this; rather, we should thank Allah Ta’ala for this blessing.

SELF SACRIFICE

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Are the sacrifices of the Companions Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhum not evident to us? Did those blessed personalities not sacrifice their lives, wealth, families, and children when the time came? Pay attention and study the selflessness and sacrifices of the first Caliph Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu. Once, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam asked the Companions to sacrifice their wealth. The Companion of the Cave, Hazrat Abu Bakr Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu brought everything that was in his home and presented it. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “O Abu Bakr, what did you leave at home?” May we be sacrificed on the answer of Sayyedina Siddique e Akbar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu who replied, “I have left Allah Ta’ala and His Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam in my home.” In other words he was saying:

Light is all a moth needs, a nightingale needs only a flower All Siddique needs is Allah’s Prophet!

Therefore, for a Muballig to lead a dignified life, it is necessary and essential that he should not hesitate for a moment in sacrificing whatever is needed. From this, we realise that one of

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the most important qualities of a Muballig is the willingness and ability to be unselfish and to give sacrifices when needed. Remember! No system or way of life has been established in the world without sacrifices and selflessness. If we want to lie on beds of comfort, then the Islamic way will never be established. We are not doing any favours to the religion by sacrificing our lives, wealth, and strength; it is actually our Lord who is doing a favour on us by accepting them. The reason for this is that Allah Ta’ala is without faults, yet we are presenting these things in His Court that are full of faults, as we are covered in faults. It is His untold Grace and Favours that He has granted us the guidance to work for His religion. If we face all difficulties on this path with calmness and remain patient and steadfast, up to the point that we present our lives to our Creator if need be, then that will be our ascension. The reason for this is that those who die on the bed merely die, but those who give their lives in His path are alive even after dying and become deserving of eternal rewards. It should be remembered that there is no question of sacrifices in the path of Allah Ta’ala not being accepted, rather, it is rewarded greatly. The reality is that Allah Ta’ala entrusts our lives and our wealth to us just as Allah Ta’ala says in the Holy Qur’an,

“No doubt. Allah has purchased from the Muslims their lives and their belongings against this return, that for them is Paradise…“ 1

In reality, we are guardians of these two things (lives and belongings). Wherever we are ordered to use these, we should use them so that we are not shamed and embarrassed on the Day of Judgement. If we fulfil the responsibilities of this guardianship properly and accurately then, according to the Creator of Paradise, we will be deserving of Paradise, Insha Allah Ta’ala.


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KNOWLEDGE

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Once we have taken on the responsibility and enthusiasm of preaching the religion; once we have made sacrifices in attempting to reform ourselves and those around us; once we have become punctual and regular in the ways and qualities of a preacher, one of the most important things that is needed, to move the work and the message forward, is knowledge. According to the words of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, knowledge of the religion is our best companion. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Make obtaining knowledge compulsory on yourselves as knowledge is the best companion.”

Knowledge is such a companion that he will be there in the grave, helping us to answer the questions of the Angels. Those who meet with preachers have great hopes and expectations that their questions will be answered and that they will find solutions to their problems. If their problems are not solved according to the Qur’an and Hadith, they will leave thirsty and unsatisfied. Therefore, Muballigs should always remain busy in obtaining knowledge, never think of themselves as complete, as our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has said, “Obtain knowledge from the cradle to the grave.”

Our homes and offices should be decorated with religious books as opposed to souvenirs and displays, and they should not just be for display but should be for research and knowledge. The research should not be just for the sake of learning, but so that we act upon what we learn as well, as this is the requirement and obligation placed upon us by our religion. My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Dedicate some time in the course of the day that can be spent in learning knowledge and carrying out research, and supplicate for beneficial knowledge. Keep in mind that it is a Sunnah of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and always ask Allah Ta’ala to increase your knowledge, “O my Lord increase me in knowledge.“ We should ask Allah Ta’ala to grant us increased knowledge and He will grant it to us, Insha Allah Ta’ala, through the alms of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. After we have

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performed the compulsory worships, the best worship is attaining knowledge.

Hafiz e Millat Allama ‘Abdul ‘Aziz Muraadabaadi ‘Alaihir Rahmah (Founder of Al Jaamia tul Ahsrafiya, Mubarakpur) stated that the best incantations (Wazeefas) for preachers is studying and researching. Huzoor Sayyedul ‘Ulema Sayyed Aal e Mustafa Marehrawi ‘Alaihir Rahmah stated that preachers of the religion should study at least two hundred pages of religious books every day.

Remember! Without the light of the Qur’an and Hadith, working for the religion is a case of going astray and leading others astray. Research and study the translation of the Qur’an (Kanzul Iman), books of Tafseer and Ahadith, history of Islam, and the life of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam according to the scholars of Ahle Sunnah, especially the books and writings of Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Faazil e Bareilly ‘Alaihir Rahmah. It should be remembered that, in the light of the Qur’an, the most respected person is one who is most pious. Allah Ta’ala says,

“Undoubtedly, the most respected among you in the sight of Allah is he who is more pious…” 1

Piety cannot be gained without knowledge, whether it is obtained from institutions, direct from Allah Ta’ala, or from the glances and graces of pious people. Spend your lives in this path so that you can give the world brightness through your knowledge.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! For your convenience and to enable you to increase your knowledge, the following list of books is presented. These books will not only help you in increasing your knowledge, but will make your faith and beliefs stronger. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the enthusiasm and desire to study and gain knowledge, and may He grant us profitable knowledge through the alms of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen.

1 Surah Hujurat Verse 13 Kanzul Iman

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TO STUDY

Kanzul Iman Essential

Bahaar e Shari’at Part 1 Essential

Tamheed e Iman Essential

Qanoon e Shari’at Essential

Tajalli ul Yaqeen Essential

Suroor ul Quloob Essential

Jazbul Quloob Essential

Bahaar e Shari’at Part 16 Essential

Akhbaarul Akhyaar (Translation) Essential

Takmeel ul Imaan (Translation) Essential

Tahqeeqat 1 & 2 Essential

Fatawa e Africa Essential

Seerat e Rasool (Arabic)

Seerat ul Mustafa

Mubarak Raatain

Makaashifatil Quloob

Keemyaa e Sa’aadat

Nafhatul Ins Bazm e Auliya

‘Azmat e Waalidain

Jannati Zeywar (For Ladies)

DEEDS AND ACTIONS

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Very important attributes in the qualities of a preacher are his personal deeds and actions, and they are the things that assist him in this path. The actions of a Muballig are in themselves an invitation, because knowledge without deeds is like a tree without leaves. It is a great hypocrisy if we say one thing and do the opposite. Allah Ta’ala says,

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“Do you order righteousness to mankind and forget yourselves…“ 1

It is essential that we colour ourselves totally in Islamic colours and act upon its teachings before we advocate it to others. Each and every action of ours should be within the bounds of Islam. If we do not act upon the teachings ourselves, yet we travel the world propagating and inviting people to Islam, then we are making fun of our religion. If this is not blatant hypocrisy, then what is it? What can be achieved other than disgrace in both worlds?

The actions and deeds of a preacher are an example for the community. If the lack of deeds or the presence of bad deeds in a preacher is used as proof and confirmation by an ignorant person as to its validity, we can all imagine the impact of that. May Allah Ta’ala save us all from disgrace and humiliation through the alms of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen.

GOOD COMPANY


“O believers! Fear Allah and be with the truthful.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! It is critical for a preacher to surround himself with what we call “good company.” When people look at a preacher, they look at his surroundings, they look at his friends, they look at those whom he associates and assembles with. If they see that the people around the preacher are pious, righteous, upright, and have good characters, the effects of the preachers’ words will have a major

1 Surah Baqara Verse 44 Kanzul Iman 2 Surah Tauba Verse 119 Kanzul Iman

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impact on people, and this is the main objective of the religion. The company of pious people ignites knowledge into action. The company of good people increases the enthusiasm for goodness. We should look towards those individuals in the organisation who are punctual with their deeds and are successful, and profit by spending time with them, so that we can learn and master the art of protecting ourselves from laziness, irregularity, mistakes, and the whisperings of Satan. We should not hesitate in accepting the truth and goodness, as this is a sign of dutiful, obedient people. Stubbornness, inflexibility, and pig-headedness are the preludes to ruin.

Benefit should definitely be acquired by keeping the company of pious scholars, and time should be made to attend their lectures and commentaries so that we can become familiar with the secrets and symbols of the Qur’an and Hadith. Sometimes, it only takes a single word of wisdom to remove years of rust and ignorance. Avoid those gatherings where the conscience is put to sleep rather than awakened, otherwise you will be classified as one of the idle, time wasters and your heart will become dark. Remember! Lectures and gatherings mean the lectures, gathering and teachings of the rightly guided scholars, the scholars of Ahle Sunnah. It is useless listening to the blabbering of those people whose lamp has been extinguished, because the person travelling in darkness will not be able to show you the light.

STEADFASTNESS

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Another quality that is critical on the path of preaching and propagating is determination. The factors that will make you successful in reaching the destination are doing the work whole heartedly with enthusiasm and being determined and firm. There will be thousands of problems on this path, but the work of preaching must not stop and you must not be sidetracked. You have to pass through trials and tests on this path; sometimes there are mountains of problems and issues, other times the taunts and scorn of others are enough to make one tremble and shake.

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Sometimes, people try and buy the preachers; other times they are trapped and tricked in such a manner that one finds it impossible to figure out. Sometimes, even after great efforts are made, success is not seen and this leads to a feeling of disappointment and dejection.

The point is that preachers are tested and tried in many different ways but the successful preacher is one who does not lose his steadfastness but forces the storm to change its direction. The people taunting should be forced to think that ‘There is no way we can sidetrack him from his work’. The one who is steadfast and determined will Insha Allah, receive the Help of Allah Ta’ala, because He has promised,

“…And it is on Our Grace binding to help the Muslims.” 1

You will see that those opposing you will stand shoulder to shoulder with you and will assist you in making the religion victorious. It is not possible for any organisation to be successful without determination, firmness and steadfastness.

LOVE OF RASOOL ALLAH Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! This quality is the perfection of religion. If this quality is found in normal people, it is a sign of a soul that is alive as this quality is related to faith. If it is necessary to have this quality in a normal believer, it is even more crucial for it to be present in a preacher. The more this quality is found in a preacher, the more touching, pure, and effective the message will be. The reality is that the foundation and core aim of Islam is that a believer’s heart becomes a treasure chest filled with love of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam. Therefore, how much love should we have for Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam? Let us find out from the blessed, wisdom-filled tongue of Sayyedina Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, who stated, “None of you can be a believer until I

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become dearer to you than your mother, father, children, and all other people.” (Agreed Upon)

What was the motivation for the enormous enthusiasm in obeying Allah Ta’ala and obeying Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam that was present in the Companions and the blessed Friends of Allah Ta’ala ‘Alaihimur Ridwaan? The principal reason was that they had undying and endless love for Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam and were fearful of doing anything that may hurt that relationship, or would give people a chance to say, ‘Is that what a lover of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam does?’

Therefore, we should fill our hearts with love of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and this love is born with remembrance of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. To aid this, we should study books about the qualities and miracles of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and speak about them often. Also, we should study and understand the status and respect of the court of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam that has been explained by Allah Ta’ala in the Qur’an. Studying A’ala Hazrat’s booklet “Tajalli ul Yaqeen” and Shaikh ‘Abdul Haq Muhaddith e Dehlvi’s book “Jazbul Quloob” are also very profitable in this matter.

Reciting and listening to poetry (Na’ats) in praise of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is another way to increase the love and affection for Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in our hearts. The best way to measure how much love for Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam we have in our hearts is that when any thing clashes with and is against the teachings of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam and would disappoint him, how do we react? If we stop ourselves from going towards those things,

even if they are profitable in terms of worldly wealth, apparent fame and fortune, and apparent respect, then we should prostrate and thank Allah Ta’ala that He has brightened our hearts with love of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. If our feet slip and stumble in this matter, then we should be fearful because we have not reached the level of love and obedience that are demanded by Allah Ta’ala and by Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.

Let us look at the lives of a few blessed Companions ‘Alaihimur

Ridwaan and see the status of love for Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

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Wasallam that was present in them so that we are encouraged in our mission and it becomes easier for us to obtain true love of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.

Hazrat Zaid bin Khalid Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “If I did not worry about my Ummah being put into difficulty, I would order them to use Miswak before each prayer.” After this, it became the habit of Hazrat Zaid bin Khalid Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu that whenever he would come to the Mosque for prayer, he would have a Miswak behind his ear, just as one who writes places a pen behind his ear. When he would want to perform prayer, he would rub the Miswak on his teeth and then perform prayer. 1

Hazrat Zaid bin Khalid Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu was not ordered to perform Miswak by Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, he had merely expressed an opinion and a preference. Hazrat Zaid bin Khalid Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu made this preference of his Beloved an essential part of his whole life in order to obtain the pleasure of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. This was not only the state of Hazrat Zaid bin Khalid Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu, rather, this was the level of devotion and love of all the Companions Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhum of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the graces of these great Companions of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen.

Hazrat Ibn Hanzalah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Khazeem Asdi Radiallaho Ta’ala

‘Anhu is a great person except for the fact that his hair is too long and that he drags his lower garment.”

When Hazrat Khazeem Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu found out about this, he got a razor and cut his hair so that it was in line with his ears and he pulled his lower garment up to his shins. 2

The proof of the love of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam that was displayed and shown by the Companions Radiallaho Ta’ala

‘Anhum cannot be found amongst the followers of any other leader.

1 Tirmidhi, Abu Dawood 2 Abu Dawood

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This is the reason that the enemies of Islam were helpless against the devotion and love of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam that the Companions had, and would run away from the battlefield.

Therefore, it is essential for a preacher to fill his heart with love of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and just as it has been stated previously, love of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is created by remembering him and listening to his praises. It is true that a person always talks about the one he loves the most and if we claim to love Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, we should mention him at all times and remember him the most.

There is a need for infatuation and obsession, but the desire to sacrifice everything out of love for Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam needs to be created. From the remembrance of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, we need to move towards the concerns of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam; from the concerns of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, we need to move towards the Sunnahs of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam; from Sunnahs of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, we need to move towards the greatness of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Keep moving forward and you will soon overpower the whole world. Is that possible?

Yes, that is possible and it has happened before. We need to wake up and be alert; we need to pull our hands away from those who put us to sleep and awaken all those who are sleeping. We should remove all other collars from our necks and put on the collar of obedience to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam around our necks. Then you will see that you can sit on a mat and still rule, just give yourself in obedience to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam and the whole world will be yours.

STAY AWAY FROM THOSE WITH FALSE BELIEFS

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! There are countless sects with false beliefs prevalent in the world today such as Deobandi, Wahhabi, Sulleh Kulli, Ghair Muqallid, Jama’at e Islami, Tableeghi Jama’at, Raafzi, Qadyani, Munkareen e Hadith etc. These people are repulsive and should be avoided, as it states in a Hadith that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said,

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“Stay away from them and keep them away from you for they may misguide you and put you in tribulations.”

In another Hadith, it states, “You should not eat with them, nor drink with them, nor sit with them, nor marry or have relations with them, nor pray with them, nor should you pray the funeral prayer on them.” Their company or closeness is a deadly poison for faith and beliefs. Therefore, to stay away from them is critical. You should also save yourselves from lying, backbiting, jealousy, malice, spite, greed, fighting and quarrelling etc.” Let us supplicate to Allah Ta’ala that along with saving us from these sins, He gives us the guidance to stay away from those with false beliefs, Aameen.

BROTHERHOOD

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! All believers are brothers to each other, but our responsibility is greater than that. Due to the fact that we are connected to an organisation whose aim is to foster a feeling of brotherhood amongst all, the brotherhood amongst members of the organisation needs to be stronger and more powerful. Establish a system of mutual understanding amongst members of the organisation; join in each other’s happiness and console each other at times of grief and sadness; talk about the qualities of each other and help each other to get rid of bad habits; instead of revealing each other’s faults, cover them up.

Thousands of efforts will be made to destroy this brotherhood and mutual understanding, but be firm and remain united and stand side by side like a solid wall. If a colleague upsets you, you should get into the habit of “forgive and forget.” We should create a love in our heart for the successful colleagues amongst us, copy their good qualities and attempt to become a traveller on the path of success ourselves. We should never become a victim of Satan’s whisperings and hold malice or spite in our heart. We should always pay attention to each colleague’s pain and comfort; sacrifice our own interests for the sake of the organisation’s best interests, and even after triumphing thousands of times, never let an ounce of arrogance or pride enter our heart,

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and we should never look down at any colleague and think that he is not as good as us.

We should also always remember that if people love, respect and have faith in us, it is solely because of this religion of ours, otherwise there is no difference between us and other people. Therefore, thinking of ourselves as successful before we die with faith is foolishness. The thing that destroys brotherhood and mutual understanding is teasing and mocking each other, which have been severely condemned in the Qur’an and Ahadith and therefore we should avoid it. May Allah Ta’ala protect us all from the whisperings and mischiefs of Satan and guide us to work for His religion with sincerity, with brotherhood, and with mutual understanding, Aameen.

CHEERFUL & GOOD NATURED

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! It is necessary to be cheerful and good-natured in order to have a pure and wholesome society; therefore we should be good-humoured and make jokes occasionally as this creates love and understanding amongst colleagues. It is necessary for a preacher to be good natured and pleasant in addressing everyone. However, beware that the need for humour does not make us disrespectful. Therefore, in this regard, it is also necessary to keep in mind the Sunnahs of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. The good nature and cheerfulness of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam is beyond comparison and knows no bounds.

Once, Hazrat Umm e Salma Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anha’s daughter, who was the stepdaughter of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, came and Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam had just stepped out from taking a bath. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam cheerfully sprinkled drops of water from his blessed fingers onto her face. The blessings of those drops of water placed beauty and elegance on her face that never washed off, the look of youth remained permanent on her face. Subhan Allah!

Another incident from the many incidents of good nature, regarding Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, is as follows. There

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was a villager, called Zaahir, who used to occasionally bring certain vegetables that grew in the village as a gift to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. When Zaahir would leave, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam used to give him something from the city, such as a piece of cloth for example. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam was very friendly with him, and would say, 'I have a friendship with Zaahir, and I am his city friend.”

One day Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam went to the market place and saw Zaahir standing. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam covered Zaahir’s eyes with his blessed hands and pulled Zaahir towards him, so that his back was against the blessed chest of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Zaahir could not see Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and said, “Who is this?” When he realised who it was, he pressed harder against the blessed chest of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and did not want to be separated. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Is there anyone who wants to buy this slave?” Zaahir said, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, do you think I am useless and worthless?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “You are not worthless in the sight of Allah Ta’ala, you are very valuable.” 1

CONCERN FOR THE HEREAFTER

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Together with sincerity, obedience to Allah Ta’ala, and making people aware of the laws and values of Islam, we must also create an awareness and understanding about the hereafter in our hearts. The reason for this is that if concern for the hereafter is embedded in the mind of a preacher, the reward and punishment for every action he takes will always be at the front of his mind. The greatest and most sincere preachers do not even think about rewards, their gaze is always fixed on the Pleasure of Allah Ta’ala and their own sins.

Great, blessed Companions Ridwanullahi Alaihim would shake and tremble with concern for the hereafter. Huzoor Sayyedina Abu Bakr Siddique Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu stated that, “If, on the Day of Judgement, Allah Ta’ala says that I have forgiven all

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except one, I will think that the one that has not been forgiven is me. If Allah Ta’ala says that everyone is going to be thrown into Hell except one, I will think that the saved one is me.”

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Just look at the concern for the hereafter of the one who is the most exalted after the Prophets of Allah Ta’ala. If we want to be successful in our aim and mission, then we will have to follow in the footsteps and ways of the successful preachers. Allah Ta’ala will make us good and successful through the alms of the good and successful ones, Aameen.

OBEDIENCE TO THE LEADER (AMEER)

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Obedience to the Leader (Ameer) is a condition and quality that is needed for a preacher to be successful. Each person in the organisation should have total faith in the Ameer, should have confidence in his ability, and should be satisfied that he is sincere and able to carry out his task. Respect and honour for the Ameer should be firmly established in the hearts of all members of the organisation.

Remember, without faith in the Ameer, the caravan of the organisation will not reach its destination safely; rather it will falter and be scattered along the way. There are thousands of organisations in the past that went from success to failure very quickly, due to a lack of faith in the leader. In respect of religion and the laws of Islam, obedience to the Ameer is vital and critical. The decisions and orders given by the Ameer should be final; there is no room for debate and never attempt to find faults in them. Leave no stone unturned in trying to help, and if any decision needs to be looked at again, then definitely advise about it and express your opinion, but ensure that it is done respectfully and with sincerity.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Remember the nicer the atmosphere that exists between the Ameer and the preachers in terms of trust and confidence, the stronger the set up of the organisation will be. Rasool Allah

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Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has said, “If a lowly slave is made the Ameer, who leads you according to the book of Allah Ta’ala, listen to him and obey him.” 1

At another point, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Listen to and obey (an Ameer) even if an Ethiopian slave is made responsible over you whose head may be small like raisins, and is ungraceful.”

From the previous two Ahadith, we realise that even if someone who appears to be unsuitable is made the leader; many people may look down on him and think he is not worthy; the collective Ummah is told that it is essential to respect his authority, his extensive powers, and to obey him. Not only this, but rather, even if the Ameer displays conducts or any habits and tendencies that are not liked by certain people, he must still be obeyed. The exception to this is that if he displays any conduct that is against the laws of Islam, each and every Muslim has the right to reprimand him.

The person, who dies without obeying and complying with the order of the Ameer, dies a death that has been called an “ignorant death” by Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. The Beloved Prophet of Mercy Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam further said, “If someone sees something in his Ameer that he does not like, he should be patient, because the person that moves even an inch away from the collective group and dies in that state, his death is an ignorant death.”

The lists of conditions that have been mentioned over the last number of pages are crucial in the lives, characters, deeds and actions of preachers of the religion. There are other qualities that require extensive details that will be expanded on in detail, Insha Allah, at some other time; for now, the above qualities are sufficient. May Allah Ta’ala make our apparent and hidden obedient and make us true preachers of His religion and grant us the alms of the lives of the Companions in our own lives as preachers, Aameen.

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ADVICE OF PIOUS PEOPLE

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The words and actions of our pious predecessors are examples for us to follow and it is only in the light of them that we can reach our destination. We are therefore presenting the sayings of certain pious people below, please pay attention and read them carefully.

GOLDEN SAYINGS OF HAZRAT ‘ALI Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu

1. Do not make a greedy person your advisor, as he will steal away the wealth in your heart and your contentment.

2. Do not make one who is eager for rank or status your advisor as he will instil in you greed and lust and make you cruel and a tyrant.

3. The faith of those who are mean, cowardly, and greedy is taken away.

4. The best advisors are those who have been given intelligence and insight by Allah Ta’ala, who are pure from sins and from helping in any tyranny.

5. To ponder on the beauties of nature is also worship.

6. Calamities and disasters are hidden in every moment of the day, and death is an unknown companion.

7. Repentance destroys sins and pride destroys good deeds.

8. Forgiving quickly is extremely courteous, and rushing for revenge is meanness.

9. An evil person does not think good of anyone, as he thinks everyone is like him.

10. Make your weigh scales of deeds heavy with the weight of charity.

11. Those people who become friends for ill gotten worldly gains, the greed of this world will not stop such friends from attacking each other.

12. The person who is modest with his words will also be modest in his actions.

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13. The person whose own thoughts are corrupted is always suspicious of others.

14. Friendships with worldly people break over small things.

15. It is better to be behind someone in doing good deeds, rather than in front of those committing an evil act.

16. Whether it is appreciated or not, do not stop doing good.

IMAM E A’ZAM ABU HANIFA’S PRICELESS PEARLS Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu

If a preacher of the religion acts upon these, he will achieve success in both worlds.

1. Keep your relationship with kings like your relationship with fire. Stay at a safe distance and make use of them, do not get too close.

2. Only speak about what you are asked in front of the masses; do not laugh or smile in front of them.

3. Do not frequent the market places too often. Do not sit in other people’s shops and do not stand around on the roads.

4. If you want to sit anywhere other than your home, then go and sit in the Mosque.

5. Do not take up residence at the home of your in laws with your wife, and do not keep two wives in the same home.

6. Do not be biased, even if the decision is against the king of the time.

7. Worship more than the masses and those around you.

8. When you go to a city of knowledgeable people, go as a common man, so that the people of knowledge do not think that you are trying to take away their right. Do not answer any questions in their presence and do not argue with or debate their answers.

9. Laughing too much and talking too much with (non-permissible) women kills the heart.

10. When you walk on the streets, walk with dignity and tranquillity. Do not rush things, and do not pay attention to people that call you from behind.

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11. Do not scream when talking. Mention Allah Ta’ala amongst the people so that people may learn.

12. Fix a specific incantation (Wird) upon yourself after each prayer (Salaah). Choose certain days every month to fast, and guard your soul.

13. If you find out about someone’s vice, do not mention it to others. Find some good quality about him and mention that to others.

14. Recitation of the Holy Qur’an, visiting shrines of the pious, and visiting blessed places should be done regularly and abundantly.

15. Refrain from being miserly, as it disgraces a person. You should not be greedy nor should you lie; rather, safeguard your good qualities at all times

16. When elders are present, do not show your authority or excellence in any matter until and unless the elders introduce you to people themselves.

The above are from a list of one hundred that Imam e ‘Azam Abu Hanifa Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu gave to Imam Abu Yusuf Radiallaho

Ta’ala ‘Anhu. SAYYEDINA GHAUTH E ‘AZAM

SHAIKH ‘ABDUL QADIR JILANI Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu ‘s VALUABLE WORDS OF WISDOM

1. If we have no sins other than love of this world, then we are still deserving of Hell.

2. Worldly people run after the world and the world runs after the people of Allah.

3. Having a home to live in, clothes to wear, food to eat, and having a wife does not mean you are “worldly.” Worldly means focusing on the world and turning your back on Allah Ta’ala.

4. There are three kinds of creations, Angels, Satan, and humans. Angles are full of goodness and Satan is completely evil. Humans are mixed and have goodness and evil in them. The ones in whom goodness is more powerful mixes with the

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Angels and the one in whom evil is more powerful mixes with Satan.

5. A believer leaves his family in the care of Allah Ta’ala and a hypocrite depends on wealth and treasures.

6. Hide your difficulties; you will be blessed with closeness to Allah Ta’ala.

7. When remembrance of Allah Ta’ala takes root in the heart, a person always remains busy in His remembrance, even if his tongue may be silent.

8. Remaining silent when on your own is not bravery. Try and remain silent in a gathering.

9. The best deed is to give to people, not take from them.

10. Display respectability in front of people. If you display poverty you will fall in the sight of people.

11. Moderation is half of sustenance and good character is half of faith.

12. Very unfortunate is the person who does not have mercy for animals in his heart.

13. Your worst enemies are bad/evil companions.

14. The collection of all goodness is to learn good deeds, act upon them, and teach them to others.

15. One who becomes friendly with Allah Ta’ala shows hospitality to the creations of Allah Ta’ala.

16. When you receive no satisfaction from your good deeds, understand well that you have not done that deed.

17. As long as you are boastful and cannot control your temper, do not count yourself amongst the scholars.

18. A tyrant destroys a helpless person’s world with his tyranny and destroys his own hereafter.

19. An intelligent person first consults with his heart and then opens his mouth.

20. Try and ensure that you do not start conversations. You should merely answer questions.

21. One who is not troubled with any afflictions has no good qualities.

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22. A disrespectful person earns the displeasure of the Creator and the creations.

23. A deserving poor person is a gift from Allah Ta’ala that is sent towards you.

24. You are busy in trying to satisfy the desires of the soul, and the soul is busy trying to ruin you.

25. The person who wants to control his soul should control it with silence and respect.

26. I have lived in the company of such pious guides (Shaikhs) that I have not even seen the whiteness of their teeth.

27. Distrust and suspicion blocks the road to all success.

28. Knowledge is linked with deeds. If you acted upon the knowledge you have, you would run away from the world. There is nothing in knowledge that gives evidence for loving this world.

29. In the eyes of the Friends of Allah Ta’ala, the creations of Allah Ta’ala are like children.

SOME REQUESTS

1. Perform compulsory (Fardh, Waajib) and preferable (Sunnah) worships at their prescribed times.

2. Allocate some time every day for the recitation of the Holy Qur’an. Try to complete the whole Qur’an in no less than three days and no more than three months.

3. Recite the translation of some verses each day from Kanzul Iman and read the commentary of those verses.

4. Never speak any words except the truth. Lies should not be uttered even by mistake.

5. Always fulfil promises, no matter what the situation.

6. Always be dignified and solemn. It is not wrong to smile sincerely and display signs of happiness on your face. However, constant joking around and mischief reduces respect and dignity, creating distances between colleagues.

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7. Be sensitive and show the effects of good and bad (display happiness on seeing good and display sadness on seeing evil). Never forsake humility and humbleness and avoid flattery and shamelessness.

8. Make the right decision and use anger wisely. Do not look at someone’s good qualities with hostility no matter how much grief they may have caused you. Similarly, do not mistake someone’s evil as goodness out of love for that person.

9. Be fair even if it is to the disadvantage of you or those who are close to you.

10. Take full part in serving the creations of Allah Ta’ala, and think of the opportunity to serve as a blessing. Thank Allah Ta’ala for the opportunity that He has granted you. Visit the sick, and console those who are in difficulties. Never ever mention the favours that you have done as Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said that the one who reminds people about his favours will not be looked at with mercy by Allah Ta’ala on the Day of Judgement.

11. Make it a habit to always forgive. Treat all humans and animals with love and compassion.

12. Keep in mind the laws of respect that Islam has given us. Love those who are younger, respect those who are older, refrain from mentioning the faults of others, and protect your tongue from backbiting. The best person is one who looks for faults in himself.

13. Be well educated and stay well informed and up to date on current issues. Read the newspaper daily and analyse what is happening globally.

14. Remain busy in earning lawful income, even if you are not in dire need of it. In this way, you can profit others and you can support those who have no support.

15. You should carry out your duties and responsibilities diligently and thoroughly, never do it half-heartedly or leave it incomplete.

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16. Always earn lawful money; never think of handling or earning any kind of unlawful money, no matter how pure the intention behind it is.

17. Be very careful in fulfilling the rights of people. Failing to fulfil the rights of parents, family members and relations leads to disgrace in both worlds.

18. Whether you have a business or are an employee, allocate some of your income for the success of the organisation. Donate some money to the poor and needy as well, even if you can only give a little.

19. Work hard to ensure that you adopt an Islamic character. Our characters should differentiate us from other religions and should make people realise the truthfulness and beauty of Islam and create a love for Islam in their hearts. From greeting and talking to eating and dining, Islam should be totally evident on us.

20. Prepare for the hereafter and always keep the thought of reward and punishment in your mind. Remember that Allah Ta’ala knows every thing that is hidden in the heart. There is no action that can be hidden from Allah Ta’ala, whether it is done in the dark of the night, or the brightness of the day.

21. Always pay attention to your health. Have regular check ups if you are suffering from any ailments. Remain healthy at all times and for this, eating on time and sleeping regularly is crucial. Avoid drinks that are too hot, smoking cigarettes, paan with tobacco and consuming intoxicants; all these are hazardous to the health and it is necessary to avoid them.

22. Always remember the favours of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam upon us and be determined to live and die with love of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.

23. Be enthusiastic about performing your prayers on time in peace and tranquillity, and try to perform them with the congregation. Always try and improve the lives of the Ummah; be passionate about giving your life for the sake of Allah Ta’ala so that if the need arises, you can give your life in His path and be successful.

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24. Recite Durood and seek forgiveness (Tauba & Istigfaar) constantly. Never mind large sins, stay away from even the smallest of sins. Take stock before sleeping so that the days’ good deeds and bad deeds can be assessed.

25. Value time because time that has passed will not return. Do not let even a single moment go to waste.

26. Make it a habit to remain with ablution (Wudhu) at all times, as this will create a desire to do good deeds and avoid sins.

27. Do not even go near evil people and places of sins.

28. Remain busy in spreading the work of the organisation to all corners of the world. Obey the orders and instructions of the leader when doing the work of the organisation. Provide regular reports of the activities in your area to the leadership and do not take any step without permission, as it may be detrimental to yourself and to the situation around you. You are like a soldier that is eagerly awaiting the orders of his commander in chief. Non-compliance of orders or hesitating in obeying the orders of the leader will suck the life out of the organisation and will scatter the unity and harmony of the organisation.

Alhamdo Lillah! These requests were written in Makkah Mukarramah for our sincere colleagues with the sole aim of pleasing Allah Ta’ala and His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam so that they may become a necklace of the hereafter for us; and for it to become a means for the world to become enlightened with the beauty of Islam.

Invitation of Truth

For the reformation of faith and belief; For the reformation of deeds and actions;

To fill our hearts with love of Allah Ta’ala and Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam;

To learn the blessed Sunnahs of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam;

To create passion for learning our faith; To get closer to Maslak e A’ala Hazrat;

Attend Sunni Dawat E Islami’s weekly Ijtema Every Saturday after Salaat-ul-‘Isha at

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EXCELLENCE OF KNOWLEDGE


My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Knowledge is a great divine blessing with which a person is able to reach great heights and achieve untold successes, and it is this very knowledge that takes disobedient souls and teaches them how to bow down and worship the true Lord. It is only on the

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basis of knowledge that a person gains so much understanding and fear of the Lord that Allah Ta’ala mentions this and these people in the Holy Qur’an. He states,

“Only those of His bondmen who possess knowledge fear Allah.” 1

Alhamdo Lillah! By the grace of Allah Ta’ala and the benevolence of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, mankind has been given so much knowledge, and in such a way, that he is a standard bearer and is capable of passing that knowledge on to future generations. Those who carry out this exalted task are given the glorious titles of ones who are “close” to Allah Ta’ala” and “deputies” of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. There are numerous verses in the Holy Qur’an relating to knowledge that brighten our lives with the light of guidance. It is appropriate to mention some of those verses.

TEACHER TO MANKIND

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! For the assistance and guidance of mankind, the Supreme Lord of all the worlds sent the supreme teacher, Master to all, our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, as his absolute deputy so that the wandering masses could be guided with knowledge of the world and the Creator. The Holy Qur’an states,

“O Our Lord, and send in them a messenger from among themselves, who may recite to them Your signs and teach them

1 Surah Fatir Verse 28 Kanzul Iman

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Your Book and wise knowledge and may purify them well. Surely, You are alone the Predominant, the Wise.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! This verse states clearly that there are three reasons why Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam was sent onto the earth.

1. To propagate the Oneness of Allah Ta’ala and Prophethood through the recitation of the Book of Allah Ta’ala.

2. To teach knowledge and wisdom.

3. To purify the souls of mankind of sins and evils.

We realise that one of the reasons that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam came into the world was to teach religious knowledge, but alas, we are going further and further away from religious knowledge. We worry constantly about teaching our children worldly knowledge but do not care in the slightest about their religious knowledge. May Allah Ta’ala give us the guidance to obtain religious knowledge and to move our children towards religious education, Aameen.

A GREAT TREASURE

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Allah Ta’ala only selects those with knowledge to rule on the earth. Many wonders can be reached and great progress can be made with knowledge, and this helps them to solve the problems that arise with great speed and expertise. In the Holy Qur’an, Allah Ta’ala mentions a King called Hazrat Talut, who ruled over the Bani Israel,

1 Surah Baqara Verse 129 Kanzul Iman

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“And their prophet said to them. 'Verily Allah has sent Talut as your king.' Spoke they 'How can there be kingship of him over us, whereas we are more entitled for the kingship than he, and nor he has been given abundance of wealth too'. Said the prophet "Allah

has chosen him over you, and has increased him abundantly in knowledge and body, and Allah gives His kingdom to whom He

wills and Allah is All-Embracing All-knowing.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Just think! Hazrat Talut was just a businessman of moderate wealth and Allah Ta’ala made him the King of the Bani Israel. Why was he granted this distinction? Did he have a lot of wealth? Was he from a prestigious family? Definitely not! Allah Ta’ala selected him as the King solely because he possessed great knowledge as the aforementioned verse points out. This shows us that the treasures of this world are granted through knowledge; it is through knowledge that kingdoms are granted.

Consider the facts and ask yourselves, will the Lord who grants kingdoms because of knowledge, deprive those who obtain religious knowledge of livelihood and income? Never! People who assume this should take a close look at their mentality and thinking and should seek religious knowledge in order to please Allah Ta’ala and His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. May Allah Ta’ala give us the guidance to learn religious knowledge all our lives, Aameen.

GREATEST GRACE



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“…And Allah has sent down to you the Book and Wisdom and has taught to you what you did not know and great is the grace of

Allah upon you.” 1

Hazrat Allama Ibn Raazi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes in his commentary of this verse that, “Allah Ta’ala says ‘…and has taught to you what you did not know and great is the grace of Allah upon you.’ 2, which means that Allah Ta’ala is stating that knowledge is grace.” (Furthermore, in a verse in Surah Baqara, Allah Ta’ala says, “…he who got wisdom indeed got abundant good…”) Wisdom is referred to as an “abundance of good,” and wisdom is knowledge. Allah Ta’ala also says,

“The Most Affectionate. Taught the Qur’an to His beloved.” 3

Allah Ta’ala has given this blessing superiority over all other blessings, which proves that it is better than all the other blessings that we have been granted.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Allah Ta’ala granted His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam all knowledge and refers to this as the greatest grace. Contemplate the fact that the world, which is huge, whose wealth cannot be imagined by anyone is referred to as,

“…the enjoyment of the world is little…” 4 however, when knowledge is granted, Allah Ta’ala refers to it as the greatest grace. Now when we cannot understand the “little grace” (the

1 Surah Nisaa Verse 113 Kanzul Iman 2 Surah Baqara Verse 269 Kanzul Iman 3 Surah Rahman Verses 1-2 Kanzul Iman 4 Surah Nisaa Verse 77 Kanzul Iman

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world), how can we comprehend and appreciate the “greatest grace” (knowledge)? It is impossible for any person to truly understand the scope and magnitude of this wealth that we have been granted by Allah Ta’ala. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the blessings and benefits of the great wealth that is knowledge through the alms of His Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen.

FEAR OF ALLAH TA’ALA…AND SCHOLARS


“Only those of His bondmen who possess knowledge fear Allah. Undoubtedly, Allah is Dignified, Forgiving.” 1

With reference to the above-mentioned verse, Hazrat Imam Raazi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes that the verse is evidence of the fact that all Scholars are dwellers of Paradise. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! This verse also testifies to the qualities and excellences of knowledge and Scholars. Fear of Allah Ta’ala is the root of all good deeds and is the major deterrent that stops a person from committing sins. If it (fear of Allah Ta’ala) makes a place for itself in someone’s heart, the whole world is fearful of that person. This is the thing that Allah Ta’ala is mentioning; if any of His bondmen manages to acquire this great quality then he is, in reality, a person of knowledge, and the embodiment of fear of Allah Ta’ala. This is the reason that when the community wanders off the straight path and starts going in the wrong direction, it is these same Scholars who fear Allah Ta’ala themselves and try and instil this fear in the hearts of all people.

GRANT ME MORE KNOWLEDGE

The Holy Qur’an states,

1 Surah Fatir Verse 28 Kanzul Iman 2 Tafseer e Kabeer Vol 1 Page 279

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“Allah is then Most High, the True King, and hasten not with Quran until its revelation is completed to you, and submit, 'O my

Lord increase me in knowledge!” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! In this verse Allah Ta’ala says to His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, ‘O Beloved, even though you possess a wealth of knowledge, keep reciting this supplication that, O Lord increase me in knowledge.’ We are being given a lesson that no matter how much knowledge a person has, no matter how great a Scholar he has become, he must always beg the Lord to grant him blessings in the knowledge he has and to increase his knowledge. Knowledge is like an ocean, no matter how much one obtains, it will never end. Therefore, after this verse was revealed, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam used to regularly recite the following supplication (Du’a): Allahumman Fa’nee Bimaa ‘Allam Tanee Wa ‘Allimnee Maa Yan Fa’oonee Wa Zidnee Ilmaa. Translation: O Lord grant me profit from the knowledge that you have bestowed on me and give me knowledge of those things that will profit me and increase me in knowledge, Aameen.

STATUS OF THOSE WITH KNOWLEDGE

1 Surah Ta-Ha Verse 114 Kanzul Iman

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“O believers! When it is said to you; make room in assemblies, then do make room; Allah will make room for you. And when it is said, 'rise up, then rise up; Allah will raise, in degree, those of you

who believe and those who are endowed with knowledge. And Allah is Aware of your doings.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Here Allah Ta’ala has clarified that he has granted supremacy to those with knowledge over all other people, rather, they have been given tremendous superiority. How much superiority? What status did He grant them? Allah Ta’ala and His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam know best. People in this world give wealthy people more importance over others, but may I be sacrificed on the status of those with knowledge; the one giving them importance over others is not a person, it is the Lord of the worlds. Those people who think that Scholars are worthless should take heed from this verse. We can understand this further from another verse where Allah Ta’ala says,

“Are those who know equal to those who know not'?” 2

In this verse, we are being told that those with knowledge and those without knowledge can never be the same; those with knowledge have a much higher status. Knowledge is a wealth that is permanent; there is never any reduction in it. How is it possible then for a person, who does not possess this great wealth, to be the same as a person whose heart is shining brightly with this great lamp? May Allah Ta’ala brighten our hearts with His Light and protect us from ignorance and darkness, Aameen.

KNOWLEDGE AND THE QUR’AN

1 Surah Mujadila Verse 11 Kanzul Iman

2 Surah Zumar Verse 9 Kanzul Iman

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The Almighty Creator states,

“Recite with the name of your Lord Who created. He made man from the clot of blood. Recite, for your Lord is the Most Generous. Who taught writing by the pen. Taught man what he knew not.“ 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Everyone is well aware that the very first verses that were revealed of Surah Alaq, included the verse “Taught man what he knew not.”

By mentioning knowledge in this first revelation, Allah Ta’ala made it crystal clear that Islam is a religion of learning and teaching, of lessons and training. Those people who are Muslims, yet shy away from obtaining knowledge, are living their lives against the fundamental principles of Islam. In actual fact, we Muslims have the greatest right to learn and teach; therefore Muslims should leave the darkness of ignorance and step into the light of knowledge. May Allah Ta’ala grant us all the great wealth of knowledge, Aameen.

EXCELLENCE OF KNOWLEDGE

”And We bestowed great knowledge to Daud and Sulaiman, and both said, 'all praise to Allah Who has excelled us over many of

their believing bondmen.“ 1

1 Surah Alaq Verses 1-5 Kanzul Iman

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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! This verse also praises the virtues and excellences of knowledge. Hazrat Sulaiman ‘Alaihis Salaam was given the whole world as his kingdom but he does not mention the kingdom at all, but rather, he says that the knowledge that ‘Allah Ta’ala has granted me has made me superior to other people’; and in reality, that is the truth. The reason for this is that the world will be destroyed, but knowledge will never be destroyed, which is why knowledge is more superior to the mortal world. Therefore Muslims should worry less about the perishable world and pay more attention to the never-ending wealth of knowledge. After knowing all of this, running after the world is nothing more than stupidity. May Allah Ta’ala guide us to strive to gain knowledge until our final breath, Aameen.

THOSE WITH PATIENCE

”Then he came out of his people in his adornment Those who desire the life of the world said, 'anyhow, we would too had the like of that Quaroon has been given, undoubtedly he has a great

fortune? And those who were given knowledge said, 'woe to you', Allah's reward is better for him who believes and does good work,

and it is given only to those who are patient.“ 2

1 Surah Naml Verse 15 Kanzul Iman

2 Surah Qasas Verses 79-80 Kanzul Iman

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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! When Quaroon came out in front of the public with great pageantry and pomp, the people who desired the wealth of this world started saying ‘If only we had the wealth that Quaroon has.’ However, those with knowledge were helped by their knowledge at this stage as well. The blessings of the knowledge they had told them that the wealth of this world is apparently very comforting and profitable, but in reality there is great danger in it, and will not help reap any dividend except disgrace and dishonour. They proved with their words and their deeds that the treasures of this world are nothing in the eyes of those with knowledge; reward and return is what they value and that will be given by Allah Ta’ala. If the world looks at those who are gaining knowledge with contempt and scorn, there is no need to be disheartened; if those with wealth are respected in the eyes of the world and worldly people, those with knowledge are the ones who are respected and valued in the Court of Allah Ta’ala. Regarding the verse,

“'O believers! Obey Allah and Obey the messenger, and those who have power of command amongst you…“ 1

Hazrat Allama Imam Fakhruddin Raazi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states that “those who have power of command amongst you” refers to Scholars because even Kings and Rulers are ordered to obey those with knowledge, but it is not compulsory for Scholars to obey Kings. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Imam Fakhruddin Raazi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states that, based on all the verses mentioned above, Scholars are inhabitants of Paradise. The reason being that Allah Ta’ala says

1 Surah Nisaa Verse 59 Kanzul Iman 2 Tafseer e Kabeer Vol 1 Page 274

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that the only people who truly fear Him are those with knowledge. At another point Allah Ta’ala says,

“But for him who fears to stand before his Lord there are two Paradises.” 1

Those who fear Allah Ta’ala are Scholars and those who fear Allah Ta’ala will be granted two Paradises, therefore Scholars are inhabitants of Paradise. May Allah Ta’ala keep us all in the group of Scholars and grant us all knowledge that profits us, Aameen.

EXCELLENCE OF KNOWLEDGE IN THE LIGHT OF AHADITH

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The message of the very first Qur’anic revelation “Recite with the name of your Lord Who created” is the importance of gaining knowledge. The revelation announces to mankind to turn its attention towards reading, writing and gaining knowledge. The importance of knowledge is also stressed emphatically many, many times in the Ahadith, and some of them are being presented below.

ALLAH TA’ALA’S REWARD

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Whomsoever Allah wishes to show goodness to, he gives him understanding of the Religion.” 2 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Remember, whosoever does not have knowledge is definitely at a loss, and those whom Allah Ta’ala has granted knowledge to should be congratulated as Allah Ta’ala has chosen goodness for them. May Allah Ta’ala make us all wealthy with profitable knowledge, Aameen.

1 Surah Rahman Verse 46 Kanzul Iman 2 Bukhari Shareef, Muslim Shareef, Mishkat Shareef

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In another Hadith Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who is blessed with knowledge by Allah Ta’ala, it is as though he has been granted Paradise.” My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Whoever wishes to see a dweller of Paradise should look at a religious Scholar, because to look at a practising Scholar is the same as looking at Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. To look at a religious Scholar is worship. It is evident, if Allah Ta’ala rewards us for merely looking at them, they must be dwellers of Paradise. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the opportunity to keep looking at Scholars and grant us knowledge of the religion, Aameen.

LIFE OF ISLAM

Hazrat Ibn Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Knowledge is the life of Islam and is a pillar of the religion.” 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! This Hadith of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam makes obvious the fact that if you want to keep Islam alive, you must gain knowledge. Through prayers, fasting and other worships we can make ourselves pious, but we cannot make Islam victorious; only through knowledge will Islam be triumphant. Today, other misguided communities withstand hunger and thirst but still gain knowledge, but Muslims are wandering in the valley of ignorance.

The world has raised countless objections on the laws of Islam and the verses of the Qur’an, yet we have not taken any steps to answer them, through which we would fulfil our responsibility to protect Islam. O youngsters of Islam! Stand up and brighten the lamp of knowledge in your respective towns and cities so that our societies can be illuminated with the beautiful disciplines of Islam. May Allah Ta’ala grant us all the gift of being the deputies of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen.

1 Kanzul A’maal Page 76

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BETTER THAN WORSHIP

Hazrat ‘Abaadah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that knowledge is better than worship. Similarly, Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho

Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that the best worship is obtaining knowledge. 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved

devotees! Performing worship profits the individual worshipper whereas knowledge profits the whole of mankind. “Knowledge is better than worship” means it is better to remain busy in gaining knowledge rather than performing voluntary (Nafl) worship, because through knowledge a person fears Allah Ta’ala, and can differentiate between the lawful and the unlawful. Knowledge is the tool that looks after your worships and ensures that they are performed correctly. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to obtain knowledge, Aameen.

The Mother of believers, Hazrat ‘Aisha Siddiqua Radiallaho Ta’ala

‘Anha reported that she heard Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam say, “Excessive knowledge is better than excessive worship, and the true foundation of faith is piety.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! After the completion of compulsory worships, do not let any time pass by idly, rather spend it in obtaining knowledge. It is through knowledge that piety is born and respect is gained. In this day and age, the successful ones are those with knowledge and those who are busy in gaining knowledge. Uninformed and ignorant people had no respect in previous times, nor do they enjoy any respect in this age. Value your time and remain busy in gaining knowledge; study those books that stimulate your heart and your mind and enable them both to shine brightly; stay away from the books that lead to darkness in the heart and mind. Let us make a firm intention that we will spend a portion of each day in the seeking and gaining of knowledge. May Allah Ta’ala, through

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the alms of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, grant us all knowledge that helps us, Aameen.

LEGACY OF THE PROPHET’S ‘Alaihimus Salaam

Hazrat Umm e Haani Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anha reported that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Knowledge is my legacy and the legacy of all the Prophets who came before me.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Before leaving this earthly life, Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam and all the Prophets ‘Alaihimus Salaam did not leave any worldly wealth behind; they all left knowledge behind. Therefore, those who obtain knowledge are obtaining the inheritance of the Prophets ‘Alaihimus Salaam.

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN KNOWLEDGE… AND IGNORANCE

Hazrat Anas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “A small amount of good deeds with knowledge gives benefit; a large amount of good deeds with ignorance gives no benefit.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Why are worshippers unable to stop themselves from shamelessness and evil deeds today? The reason for this is that most people are ignorant of the fundamentals of cleanliness and ablution, the conditions of prayer, the rules of prayer etc because of a lack of knowledge. This is why we should pay more attention to gaining knowledge as opposed to voluntary worships. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all in that direction, Aameen.

Hazrat Anas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that knowledge of Allah Ta’ala and His Blessed Qualities is the best deed. If you have knowledge, then even a small amount of deeds will benefit you

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greatly; with lack of knowledge, neither a small amount of deeds will benefit you, nor will a large amount of deeds. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Knowledge of Allah Ta’ala and His Blessed Qualities is essential, as this will protect a person from infidelity and polytheism, or even the suspicion of infidelity and polytheism, and this is the best act. Due to a lack of knowledge, Muslims use all kinds of words today in relation to Allah Ta’ala that are not worthy of the Status of Allah Ta’ala. In this way, people become sinners and, in some instances, become infidels. It is therefore incumbent on all Muslims to learn about Allah Ta’ala and His Qualities. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

KNOWLEDGE AND KINGDOM

Hazrat Ibn Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Hazrat Sulaiman ‘Alaihis Salaam was given the choice of control over wealth, kingdom or knowledge, and he chose knowledge; because he chose knowledge, he was also bestowed with wealth and a kingdom. 2

A BELIEVER’S FRIEND

Hazrat Ibn Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Hold onto knowledge firmly because knowledge is a believers close friend.” 3

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! You will have seen that during difficult times even the best of friends leave you, up to the point that even the wealth that we strive night and day for leaves us. However Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam has said that knowledge is a believer’s close friend, it will never leave our side. It will be by our side on the earth and will also help us in the grave. Therefore, we should make


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knowledge our friend from today, its friendship will help us every step of the way. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to obtain knowledge, Aameen.

EXCESSIVE KNOWLEDGE OR… EXCESSIVE WORSHIP

Hazrat Abu Sa’eed Khudri Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “I love excessive knowledge much more than excessive worship.” 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Read and understand the words of Hazrat Abu Sa’eed Khudri Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam said he loves excessive knowledge much more than excessive worship. In this day and age those who seek or teach knowledge, or write books to teach others are looked at with contempt and are mocked by ignorant worshippers. These ignorant people do not realise that those who they are looking at with contempt are the ones who are respectful, according to the words of a Companion of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. If we want to be respectful and be respected, then we should move in the direction of education and knowledge. May Allah Ta’ala grant wisdom to all those who look down upon those who are in the field of knowledge and learning, Aameen.

PATH TO PARADISE

Hazrat Ibn ‘Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that, “Every thing has a path leading to it, and the path to Paradise is knowledge.” 2

Another Hadith states that, “The person who goes in search of knowledge, Allah Ta’ala makes him walk on the path to Paradise. To make the seeker of knowledge happy, the angels lay down their wings under the feet of the person.” Hazrat Mulla ‘Ali Qari Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes that, “This Hadith is pointing


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towards the fact that the path to Paradise is hidden along the path of knowledge, as it is not possible to perform good deeds without knowledge.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Subhan Allah! Tell me which one of us does not desire Paradise? Everyone wants to go to Paradise, but do we walk on the path that leads to Paradise? If we do not walk on the path to Paradise, how will we get to Paradise? Let us ask Allah Ta’ala to guide us on the path to Paradise every day, Aameen.

ONE WITH KNOWLEDGE DOES NOT DIE

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who is alive with knowledge will never die.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Thousands of Scholars and Intellectuals have left the world and hundreds of years have passed since they left the world, yet their books and writings are still available from which a Scholar gains benefit, quenches his thirst and respectfully salutes the author. Just as their books are still alive, their names are also still alive. Undoubtedly, the truthful, honest, Prophet Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam spoke the truth when he declared that the person who is alive with knowledge will never die.

Mankind achieves glory through knowledge and skill Man is a living corpse without knowledge

REASON FOR DISGRACE

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Allah Ta’ala withholds knowledge and respect from a person, and then disgraces him.” 3

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! If Allah Ta’ala wishes to disgrace someone, then he withholds knowledge and respect from that person. You will see

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in the world that disrespectful, unintelligent people are not treated the same as respectful knowledgeable people. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

GAINING KNOWLEDGE FOR ONE MOMENT…

Hazrat Ibn ‘Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Gaining knowledge for one moment is better than staying awake for the whole night.” 1

Hazrat Mulla ‘Ali Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes that this Hadith means that to debate or discuss a point of knowledge, learning from a teacher, teaching a student, writing a book, or studying a book is better than worshipping for the whole night. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Many hours are wasted sat in front of the TV or standing around gossiping and chatting. Saturday nights are especially reserved for partying and amusement. If they are asked to come to the weekly Ijtema they will make all sorts of excuses not to attend. Alas, if only we would attempt to act upon the aforementioned Hadith of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Allah Ta’ala would grant the reward of worshipping for the whole night. Make the intention that we will attend the weekly Ijtemas and attempt to learn knowledge. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

THE GREATEST WEALTH

Hazrat Mas’ab bin Zubair Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Strive to gain knowledge even if you have wealth, as the knowledge will be beauty for you. If you do not have wealth or possessions, then the knowledge will be your wealth.” 3

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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Knowledge is the greatest wealth. We find that the person with knowledge is the most respected person as everyone is dependant on people with knowledge. If one has wealth along with knowledge then all the better, otherwise knowledge is the most valuable thing that a person can have. May Allah Ta’ala grant us all profitable knowledge and lawful livelihood, Aameen.

PARADISE SEARCHES FOR ONE WITH KNOWLEDGE

Hazrat Ibn ‘Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Paradise searches for the person who is out seeking and searching for knowledge. Hell searches for the person who is seeking sins. 1

EXCELLENCE OF A STUDENT

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! One of the biggest reasons Allah Ta’ala gave humans such an exalted status and position in the universe is because of knowledge. The reason for Hazrat Adam ‘Alaihis Salaam being

superior to the angels in Paradise was proven to be on the basis of having more knowledge than angels. Those who gain knowledge, seek knowledge, or are striving to obtain greater knowledge are sheltered by the shade of Mercy by Allah Ta’ala and His angels. Normal people search for success, but success searches for those who seek knowledge. There are countless Ahadith about the virtues and rank of those who seek knowledge and some of these Ahadith are presented here to shine further light on the subject at hand.

THE PATH OF ALLAH TA’ALA

Hazrat Anas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who goes out in search of knowledge is on the Path of Allah Ta’ala until he returns.” 2

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Note: To go to a religious Scholar to obtain a religious ruling is also classified as searching for knowledge.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Is there a better path than the path of Allah Ta’ala? It is quite astounding that Muslims would rather walk on the path of shaitaan morning, noon and night. If only they would leave home in the search of knowledge, they would receive the honour of walking on the path of Allah Ta’ala. May Allah Ta’ala make us travellers on His path, Aameen.

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “If someone walks on the path of seeking knowledge, Allah Ta’ala makes the path to Paradise easy for him; when a community gathers in one of the houses of Allah Ta’ala (Mosque, Madrasa, Khanqah), and recites or teaches the Holy Qur’an, Allah Ta’ala showers them with peace and harmony. The Mercy of Allah Ta’ala shades them, angels surround them, and Allah Ta’ala mentions them to the angels who are close to Him.” 1

Hazrat Mulla ‘Ali Qari Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes that the Hadith “The person who goes in search of knowledge, Allah Ta’ala makes him walk on the path to Paradise. To make the seeker of knowledge happy, the angels lay down their wings under the feet of the person”, means that the path to Paradise is hidden along the path of knowledge that is because good deeds are not possible without knowledge. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The path to Paradise is very difficult, but look at the Grace of Allah Ta’ala in that he makes it easy for those who are on the path of knowledge, and Subhan Allah! He showers those who recite the Qur’an or teach it with peace, and His Mercy covers them. This is a great honour that is bestowed on those who recite the Qur’an and on those who learn the Qur’an. However, shame on us O Muslims! Those who seek worldly knowledge are looked

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at with respect and those who are learning the Qur’an are looked at with ridicule.

Beware! We should never show disrespect or contempt to those who are given great respect by Allah Ta’ala, otherwise By Allah! We will be disgraced. Let us seek forgiveness for the contempt that we may have shown for Scholars and those seeking knowledge and may Allah Ta’ala forgive us all and guide us to respect them, Aameen.

RESULT OF DENIAL

Hazrat Mulla ‘Ali Qari Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states that Ahmed bin Sho’aib narrates that he related a Hadith to a Scholar in Basra (a city in Iraq). The Hadith (“The person who goes in search of knowledge, Allah Ta’ala makes him walk on the path to Paradise. To make the seeker of knowledge happy, the angels lay down their wings under the feet of the person”) was mentioned in a gathering in which a Mu’tazilite (member of the misguided Mu’tazali sect), who had come to learn knowledge was also present. On hearing the Hadith the Mu’tazilite began mocking the Hadith and said that, “Tomorrow, I will wear shoes and will trample the wings of the angels.” The next day he wore shoes as he had said, but fell down with a great thud, was in great pain, his feet became diseased and both feet rotted. 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Whatever Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has said is undoubtedly true, and may Allah Ta’ala protect us all from the misguidance of those who are misguided. For Allah’s sake! Do not obtain knowledge from them or teach them, neither should we have any relations or friendships with them. May Allah Ta’ala save us all from the evils of those who are misguided and mistaken.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We have seen the result of doubting and mocking what Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said. Therefore, when we hear or see anything that is said by Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, we

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should have no doubt or hesitation in our heart or mind as this leads to ruin and disaster. May Allah Ta’ala bless us all with grace and give us the guidance to sacrifice everything for Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen.

Tibraani states that he heard Ibn Yahya Saakhi state that, “We were walking in the streets of Basra on the way to a Scholar to gain knowledge. There was a buffoon amongst us who said, ‘Take your feet off the wings of the angels; do not break their wings.’ In other words, he was making fun of the Hadith. At that very moment, his feet gave way and he fell to the ground with an almighty thud.” 1


Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Allah Ta’ala punishes insulters in many different ways. Every word of my Beloved Prophet Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam is the truth, as he does not say anything except that which is revealed to him by Allah Ta’ala. Ignorant, uninformed insulters think of themselves as very clever, and that is why they mock the sayings of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. They forget that the status of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in the Court of Allah Ta’ala is very majestic and exalted. O slaves of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam! Never look at any saying of our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam with disdain or disregard. The more you love, honour, and respect his sayings, the more loved, honoured, and respected you will become. May Allah Ta’ala make us true lovers of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, through the alms of the true lovers, Aameen.

COMPENSATION FOR SINS

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “If a person gains knowledge it is compensation for his previous sins.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Subhan Allah! We are all sinners and commit many sins. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has given us a great and easy

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way to obtain freedom from those sins. Shall we, despite this continue to live in ignorance? Come, let us, from this day onwards, spare some time every day to seek and obtain knowledge. Insha Allah, it will be compensation for sins and will earn the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala. May Allah Ta’ala look at us all with blessings and grace, Aameen.

HUNGER FOR KNOWLEDGE IS NEVER SATISFIED

Hazrat Anas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Two kinds of hungry people are never satisfied, firstly a person hungry for knowledge, and secondly a person hungry for worldly possessions.” 1

Hazrat ‘Awan Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu stated that, “Two hungry people are never satisfied, one seeking knowledge and one seeking worldly possessions; however, they are not the same. The one seeking knowledge is on the path of pleasing Allah Ta’ala, whilst the one seeking worldly possession is on the path of rebellion.” Then Hazrat ‘Abdullah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu recited the verse in relation to the person who seeks worldly possessions, “Yes, undoubtedly, man transgresses. Because, he thought himself self-sufficient.” In other words, beware, because, undoubtedly, man transgresses and rebels when he thinks he is self-sufficient. The narrator states that Hazrat ‘Abdullah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu then recited the following verse in relation to the one who seeks knowledge, “Only those of His bondmen who possess knowledge fear Allah.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has stated the truth in that those seeking knowledge and those seeking worldly possession are never satisfied. Unfortunately in our times most people are preoccupied in seeking worldly possessions. Despite having

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sufficient wealth to aptly provide for generation after generation the greed for further wealth keeps them hungry for more. In the same way the one who is granted the wealth of knowledge is also never satisfied and continues to spend his life seeking further knowledge. May Allah Ta’ala make us all thirsty for knowledge and grant us the ability to satisfy our thirst, Aameen.

Hazrat Abu Sa’eed Khudri Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “A believer is never satisfied when listening to goodness (knowledge), until the time comes that he will be entered into Paradise” 1 (Meaning he desires that he could continue listening and learning knowledge).

Hazrat Ibn ‘Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that those seeking knowledge are the hungriest of people and amongst those who seek knowledge, those whose hunger becomes satiated will not seek out or search for more knowledge. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! There is nothing that is better or more virtuous than knowledge and the believer who is eager to learn will never be satisfied. He will continue listening, learning, teaching and spreading knowledge until his very final breath and when his soul leaves his body he becomes a traveller on the way to Paradise. May Allah Ta’ala make all of us such believers, Aameen.

SEARCHING FOR RELIGIOUS KNOWLEDGE

Hazrat Waasla Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who searches for religious knowledge and finds it is given double reward. The person who searches for it and does not find it is given regular reward.” 3

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! If we go to a religious Scholar to ask a question but do

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not find the Scholar, we are rewarded with regular reward. If we find him and he provides an answer, Allah Ta’ala grants double the reward. Allah Ta’ala bestows graces on the person who seeks knowledge. Alas! If only we would create the passion within ourselves to seek out knowledge. May Allah Ta’ala grant us all the passion to seek out knowledge and go out in search of religious knowledge, Aameen.

DEATH OF A MARTYR

Hazrat Abu Zar and Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma

narrate that if a person seeking knowledge dies whilst seeking knowledge, he dies a martyr. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Subhan Allah! To obtain the death of a martyr, the supreme price of giving your life has to be paid; but those seeking knowledge are granted this status if they die whilst on this blessed path. Just ponder for a moment about how many qualities and beauties Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has mentioned about those who seek knowledge. May Allah Ta’ala make us amongst those who seek knowledge and act upon it, Aameen.

LIVELIHOOD IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF ALLAH TA’ALA

Hazrat Zaid bin Haarith Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Allah Ta’ala has taken the responsibility of the livelihood of the person who obtains religious knowledge upon Himself. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! What grace there is of the Lord upon those who seek knowledge in that Allah Ta’ala has taken the responsibility of the livelihood of the person who obtains religious knowledge upon Himself. It is a fact that Allah Ta’ala provides livelihood to all, however, He is so pleased with those who seek knowledge that He comforts and reassures them by telling them that He, Himself,

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has taken the responsibility for their well being upon Himself. Therefore you concentrate on seeking knowledge and do not worry about other things. May Allah Ta’ala guide all our children to seek knowledge, Aameen.

LIVING AMONGST THE DEAD

Hazrat Hassan Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that one who seeks knowledge is like a living person standing amongst the dead when he is amongst the ignorant, illiterate people. 1

Hazrat Anas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that the person who seeks knowledge is like a martyr in the Sight of Allah Ta’ala. 2

KNOWLEDGE AT ANY AGE

Hazrat Anas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that the person who does not obtain knowledge in his childhood, but then obtains it in his older years and then dies, dies a martyr. 3

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! There is no limit in age for the gaining of knowledge. If, for some reason, you did not obtain knowledge in your childhood, seek and obtain it now. If you die in this state, you will be granted the death of a martyr. With this in mind, do not worry about age and remain busy in seeking and obtaining knowledge. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

WITH THE PROPHETS

Hazrat Abu Ayub Ansari Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that learning the answer to a religious question or issue is better than one years worship and is better than freeing slaves from the children of Hazrat Ismail ‘Alaihis Salaam. Definitely those who seek knowledge, the woman who is obedient to her husband, and the

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child who treats his parents with goodness, will all be with the Prophets and will enter Paradise without any questioning. 1

CITY IN PARADISE

Hazrat Anas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who wants to see those who are freed from Hell by Allah Ta’ala should look at those who seek knowledge. I swear by the Lord in whose control is my life, when a student goes back and forth to a Scholar, with each step that he takes, Allah Ta’ala grants him a city in Paradise. When he walks on the earth in search of knowledge, the earth begs for his forgiveness, and he is forgiven morning and night. The angels testify on behalf of the seeker of knowledge that Allah Ta’ala has freed him from Hell.” 2 Subhan Allah!

HELL IS UNLAWFUL

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Allah Ta’ala makes the fire of Hell unlawful for the person whose feet are covered with dust in his quest for knowledge, and the angels of Allah Ta’ala seek forgiveness for him. If he dies in the search for knowledge, then he is a martyr. His grave will be one of the gardens of Paradise, and his grave will be expanded as far as the eye can see, and will be made evident to those in the graves around him: forty graves on his right, forty on his left, forty in front of him, and forty behind him.” 3

EXCELLENCE OF SCHOLARS

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Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has described the status and qualities of these “deputies” of his and some of these are presented below.

ANGEL’S PROCLAMATION

Hazrat Anas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Allah Ta’ala has created a very beautiful city beneath the Throne. At the door of this city, an angel continuously proclaims ‘O People! Listen, whosoever sees a scholar, has seen a Prophet, whosoever sees a Prophet is as though he has seen Allah Ta’ala and the one who has the honour of seeing Allah Ta’ala is deserving of Paradise.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The west is trying to remove the respect for Scholars from our hearts, and thereby making it easier for them to remove the excellence of Islam from our hearts. They have been quite successful at this in that wherever you see, the illiterate ones stand around making fun of and insulting our blessed Scholars. They themselves are punctual in only a handful of worships and consider Scholars as beneath them. Understand the status of Scholars from the above Hadith, respect our Scholars and respect the status that they have been granted.

It is also necessary for those with knowledge that they should respect the knowledge that they have been blessed with and fulfil the responsibilities of being a deputy of Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam with utmost regard and respect. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all on the right path, Aameen.

MEETING RASOOL ALLAH Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who sees a Scholar, it is as though he has seen me. The person who sits in the gathering of a Scholar, it is as though he is sitting beside me, and

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the person who gains my companionship will be my companion in Paradise.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Subhan Allah! Which one of us does not want to be the companion of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam? When we all desire it we should all hasten towards becoming close to our pious scholars and benefit from their company, and then Allah Ta’ala will grant us companionship of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, Insha Allah. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SCHOLAR AND A WORSHIPPER

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who has even a small amount of knowledge is better than the one who worships a lot.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We learn from this Hadith that knowledge is better than worship. It is necessary for us to obtain the thing that is declared as being better by Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. We must also remember that we should not forsake and miss those compulsory worships that are ordained on us. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

…OR YOU WILL BE RUINED

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Become a Scholar, a seeker of knowledge, one who sits in a Scholar’s gathering, or one who loves those who seek knowledge; otherwise you will be ruined.” 3

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We can see the reason why Muslims are being ruined from the Hadith mentioned above. The majority of Muslims are far away from knowledge, Scholars, and even loving those who

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seek knowledge. There is a need for us to save ourselves from ruination and this is possible by attending the gatherings of Scholars, loving Scholars and the seekers of knowledge; this will lead to safety from ruination in this world and the hereafter Insha Allah. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all and save us from ruination, Aameen.

FREEING A SLAVE WITH EACH STEP

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “If a person helps or supports a Scholar whilst he is walking, Allah Ta’ala rewards him with each step that he takes. The person who kisses the forehead of a Scholar out of respect and reverence, rewards equal to the number of hairs that he has is written for him.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We realise the worth of Scholars from this Hadith and it is necessary for us to respect their status and not fall short in that regard. Also a Scholar should not insist or think that people have to respect him. Due to his knowledge and his acting upon that knowledge, Allah Ta’ala will put love and respect for him in the hearts of people. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to respect our Scholars, Aameen.

999 BLESSINGS

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Allah Ta’ala bestows 999 blessings every day on Scholars and those who seek knowledge, and one blessing on everyone else. There is nothing in between the person who is overtaken by death in the search for knowledge and a Prophet except prophethood.” 2


Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Look at the blessings that are bestowed on Scholars and on those who seek knowledge. One blessing is bestowed on everybody else, and 999 blessings are

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bestowed on Scholars and those who seek knowledge. Therefore, spend time in the company of Scholars and students of religion, Insha Allah some of those blessings will rain down on us too. May Allah Ta’ala grant us all the company of pious Scholars, Aameen.

SCHOLARS…LIGHT OF THE UMMAH

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam asked Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis

Salaam about the status of Scholars and he replied, “Scholars are the light in the world and the hereafter for your Ummah, and the person who recognises their value and loves them is very fortunate. Very unfortunate is the person who shows hostility and enmity towards the scholars.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! By asking Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis Salaam about the status of Scholars, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam made us aware of their worth and value. If, after this, we still do not respect the Scholars of Ahle Sunnah, then no one is more unfortunate than us. Remember! “Scholars” mean the Scholars of Ahle Sunnah, therefore, we should not respect any misguided Scholars, or Scholars who insult our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Rather, we should stay away from them and safeguard our faith. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all and safeguard our faith, Aameen.

RESPECTING THE SUCCESSORS

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Respect my successors!” He was asked who the successors were, and Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam replied, “Those who will teach my Ahadith and will tell my Ummah about me. Those who study my Ahadith in detail on Fridays and find the solutions to complex religious issues will be rewarded the equivalent of freeing a thousand slaves, will obtain the pleasure and companionship of Allah Ta’ala, and their forgiveness is assured.” 2

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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The status of those who are blessed with knowledge of the Ahadith is explained in the previous Hadith. They are an exalted group who should be respected and honoured at all times. May Allah Ta’ala grant us knowledge of the religion through the alms of these Scholars of the religion, Aameen.

SUN (BRIGHTNESS) OF THE UMMAH

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam asked Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis

Salaam about the status of Scholars and he replied, “The Scholars are the sun (brightness) of your Ummah, and the person who recognises their value and loves them, receives the glad tidings of Paradise. The person who shuns Scholars, stays away from them and harbours enmity for them, will be ruined and rejected.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We should have no hatred or enmity for Scholars in our hearts, otherwise we will be faced with ruin and destruction. We should respect and revere them and become deserving of Paradise. We should not insult or disrespect them and invite ruination. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to respect the Scholars of Islam, Aameen.

MANZIL E SHARAFAT

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who obtains knowledge about the laws of Islam, teaches them to my Ummah, and remains humble and modest, will receive so much reward that no one better than him will be seen in Paradise. His home in Paradise is a place called “Manzil e Sharafat” (House of Virtues) and it is the most delightful part of Paradise.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! It is a great virtue to satisfy the thirst for knowledge of


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the Ummah and its reward is immense. We have heard from the blessed lips of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam about the reward for passing on this knowledge and remaining humble and modest. If only we would understand these things and attempt to act upon them. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

STATUS CLOSE TO PROPHET’S ‘Alaihimus Salaam

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The best believer is the scholar who benefits you when you turn to him for help, and if you show indifference to him, he will be indifferent to you.” He continued on and said, “The closest status to that of the Prophets ‘Alaihimus Salaam is the status of scholars and martyrs. The scholars have this rank because they pass on the messages of the Prophets Alaihimus Salaam to the people and martyrs because they fulfil the orders of the Prophets Alaihimus Salaam with their swords and also follow their orders.” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam continued on and said, “The death of the whole community is easier than the death of a single Scholar. On the Day of Judgement the drops of ink of the Scholars will be measured with the blood of the martyrs.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We are told in the above Hadith that the death of a single Scholar is a greater loss and more troublesome than the death of a whole community. The life of a scholar is the means by which knowledge exists and the death of a scholar is the means by which knowledge ceases to exist. Scholars are being taken away and many great Scholars have left this mortal world. Let us benefit from these Scholars and fill our laps with knowledge and prepare the tools that we need for peace in the hereafter. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all towards goodness and good deeds, Aameen.

TWO THINGS CAUSE DESTRUCTION

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has said a Scholar never loses his hunger for knowledge and keeps seeking knowledge until he enters into Paradise. He further continued on and said, “The

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destruction of my Ummah will be because of two things, going away from knowledge and accumulating wealth.” 1

Allahu Akbar! My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Today, we search for the reasons of our destruction, but Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has told us the reasons for our destruction. Undoubtedly, Muslims have disappeared in to the darkness of ignorance and have been blinded by the greed of wealth, and these things have ruined and destroyed us. May Allah Ta’ala give us all the guidance to seek and learn knowledge, Aameen.

LOOKING AT THE FACE IS WORSHIP

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Five things are amongst the good deeds; (1) To eat less, (2) To sit in the Mosque, (3) To look at the Ka’aba, (4) To look at the pages of the Holy Qur’an, (5) To look at a Scholar’s face.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We should look at the faces of our Scholars and earn rewards and fill our laps with these rewards. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Five things are amongst the good deeds; (1) To look at the pages of the Holy Qur’an, (2) To look at the Ka’aba, (3) To look at ones parents, (4) To look in to the well of Zam Zam as this wipes away sins, (5) To look at a Scholar’s face.” 3

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! As you have just read, there is great reward at merely looking at the things that have been mentioned in the above Hadith. Therefore, we should all keep looking at these things and obtain great rewards. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

1 Makashifatil Quloob Page 586 2 Fatawa e Razvia Vol 4 Page 616, Jaami’ul Ahadith Page 172

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MORE POWERFUL THAN SHAITAAN

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “One who has understanding of the religion (A Scholar) is more powerful over shaitaan than one thousand devout worshippers.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The one thousand worshippers benefit themselves with their worship and, sometimes, due to pride or arrogance, they waste this worship. However, a Scholar not only worships and saves himself from the misguidance of shaitaan, he instils in others the enthusiasm for worship and warns them about the trickery of shaitaan. May Allah Ta’ala grant us all a wealth of knowledge, Aameen.

A LARGE SHARE

Hazrat Abu Darda Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Scholars are the heirs and successors of the Prophets ‘Alaihimus Salaam. The Prophets ‘Alaihimus Salaam did not leave behind Dirhams & Dinars (unit of money), but they left behind knowledge as their inheritance. Whosoever obtains knowledge gains the largest share of this inheritance.” 2 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Let us ask Allah Ta’ala to grant us a share of the inheritance of the Prophets, Aameen.

ONE MISTAKE, TWO SINS

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “If a Scholar sins, one sin is written against him, and if an illiterate person sins, two sins are written against him.” Someone asked as to the reason for this. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam replied, “The burden on the Scholar is only ‘Why did you commit the sin?’ whilst on the

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illiterate person one sin is for committing the offence, and another is for not learning about it.” 1

CONTINUOUS REWARDS IN THE GRAVE

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “When a person dies, his deeds are cut off. However, he continues to receive the reward of three things in the grave; continuous charity (Sadqa e Jaariyah), knowledge that is benefited from, and pious children who supplicate for him to be forgiven.” 2 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Our wealth and possessions will all remain on the earth. We spend all our time and energy accumulating these things that will not come with us, but will stay behind after we die. However, if we work to ensure the victory of knowledge, or if we prepare some students ourselves, we will continue to receive the rewards of their deeds in the hereafter, Insha Allah. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to work for the victory of Islam and the victory of knowledge, Aameen.

IS JEALOUSY PERMISSIBLE?

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Jealousy is not permissible except in two things. (1) Jealousy of the person who has been granted wealth by Allah Ta’ala and he spends it in His path. (2) Jealousy of the person who has been granted knowledge of the religion who gives judgement based on his knowledge and teaches it.” 3

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Jealousy is present in a man’s nature. When a person sees someone with wealth, power, fame or respect, he desires in his heart for it to be taken away from that person and be given to

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himself; this is jealousy. A person should never let these kinds of thoughts or desires enter his heart as they ruin and destroy all his good deeds. We can certainly desire that Allah Ta’ala grants us the same blessings that the other person has been granted.

However, when we see a person with a wealth of knowledge we should say ‘O Allah, grant me more knowledge than the knowledge that You have granted this person.’ Similarly, if we see someone who is spending his wealth in the path of Allah Ta’ala, it is permissible to want to spend more than him and asking Allah Ta’ala for that ability and wealth. There is no accounting or penalty for these kinds of thoughts or desires as they are not classed as jealousy. May Allah Ta’ala, with His Grace, shower us with profitable knowledge and wealth that we spend in His path, Aameen.

OBEDIENT

Hazrat Imam Ghazali Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states that if a Scholar is pious and obedient to and follows the pious predecessors of the early generations, teaches knowledge which instils fear about the consequences of worldly pride and greed; not only should one learn from such a Scholar, but one should spend as much time as possible in his beneficial company. Such a Scholar should be visited as merely seeing him is a great blessing. If a person learns knowledge that is profitable, Subhan Allah, that is the best of all work.

Profitable knowledge is the knowledge that teaches the contempt of this world, the qualities of the hereafter, and which makes you aware of the stupidity of those who deny the hereafter and seek worldly possessions. 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! There is no shortage of great Scholars who obey the Sunnahs and understand that the world is shameful and reprehensible, although it may be difficult to find them. There are many Scholars who do not look to the world or worldly people with any kind of greed or personal gain, rather their gaze is fixed

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on the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala and the pleasure of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Sitting in the company of these Scholars not only revives the hearts, but also awakens the spirit to prepare for the hereafter. Therefore, we should all search out and sit in the company of such Scholars. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the ability to benefit from the company of our pious Scholars, Aameen.

PUNISHMENT IS TAKEN AWAY

Hazrat Imam Taftaa Zaani Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states in “Sharh e ‘Aqaid” that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “When a Scholar or a student passes by any city or village, the punishment of the inhabitants of the graveyard is lifted for forty days.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! If there is so much grace bestowed on the inhabitants of a graveyard, what do you think is the measure of the Grace of Allah Ta’ala on the place where Scholars live, upon those whom they love and are friends with, and upon those who serve and help them? Therefore, always be of service to Scholars and students, Insha Allah, you will receive the benefit of it in both worlds. May Allah Ta’ala grant us love and respect of our Scholars and their students, Aameen.

HEAVEN & EARTH DECORATED

It is written in “Rabi’ ul Abraar” that Allah Ta’ala decorated the heavens with three things, the sun, moon and the stars. He also decorated the earth with three things, Scholars, rain, and fair and just kings. 2 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The beauty of the heavens lies in the sun, moon and stars as the skies without these would be a pale shadow of itself. Similarly, if it were not to rain on the earth, the treasures of the earth would not flourish in the same way; if Scholars were not present, society would be corrupted and ruined.


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By continuously inviting people to good and by warning against evil, Scholars protect mankind from rampant mischief, bloodshed and prevent the rights of people from being trampled on. It is for these reasons that Scholars are the decoration of the earth. We should all respect Scholars and gain benefit from them. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

WATER FROM THE POND OF KAUTHAR

Hazrat Naqi ‘Ali ‘Alaihir Rahmah states that those who are punctual in their prayers will drink from the Pond of Kauthar by themselves, but Scholars will be blessed with the good fortune of having the owner of the Pond, the Exalted Prophet, Mercy to all mankind Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam nourishing them with the water from his very own blessed hands. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We learn from this Hadith of the great status Scholars enjoy in the court of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Their thirst will be quenched by the blessed hands of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam himself.

It has also been stated about the status and importance of Scholars that they are followed; their deeds and actions are copied; their advice and recommendation is considered final; that angels desire their companionship and lay down their wings for them to sleep upon; that everything in the universe, all creations, even the fish in the rivers and seas, animals on dry land including insects, wild animals and birds also supplicate for the Scholars. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Why do all of Allah Ta’ala’s creations, from the innocent angels to the animals in the sea, remain occupied in assisting and supplicating for the scholars? The reason for this is that it is these very Scholars who inform the people about the rights of all the creations of Allah Ta’ala. If they did not tell us about the rights of other creatures, how would we know what their rights and our

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responsibilities are? This is why they all supplicate for Scholars and benefit from them too. May Allah Ta’ala grant blessings in the lives of the Scholars of Ahle Sunnah and give them all long healthy lives, Aameen.

TWO ENEMIES

Hazrat Allama Shaikh Sa’adi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states that two kinds of people are enemies of the state and the religion. One is the king who has no tolerance, and the other is the worshipper who has no knowledge. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The strength and numbers of illiterate worshippers are increasing day by day. We are seeing that those with knowledge are given no respect or importance in society. However, if there is a person who is somewhat punctual in worshipping despite not knowing how to recite the Qur’an properly, not knowing Tashahhud or Durood e Ibrahim correctly, and maybe even completely ignorant of the laws of Islam; people still give this kind of a person greater importance than a Scholar.

The reality is that such a person is an enemy of the religion; if he is illiterate, he concentrates on and stresses the importance of worship but does not attempt to gain any knowledge. In a similar fashion, the king who has no patience or tolerance is the enemy of the country, as the country will be ruined if he rules without any tolerance or patience. Let us all ask Allah Ta’ala to grant us knowledge and tolerance in abundance, Aameen.

IMPORTANCE OF KNOWLEDGE

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Salaam Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu asked Hazrat Ka’ab Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu what things are removed from the heart of a Scholar after he obtains knowledge. Hazrat Ka’ab Radiallaho

Ta’ala ‘Anhu replied, “Temptation, greed and having to beg from others.”

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Someone asked Hazrat Fazeel ‘Alaihir Rahmah to explain and clarify this point, and he stated that a person who desires something simply out of greed, religion leaves that person. Greed is such that it makes a person want different things all the time, to the point that he wants everything. To satisfy his greed, he will have to come into contact with many different kinds of people, some of who may satisfy his greed, but will then place a nose ring in his nose and lead him to wherever they want (meaning they will then exert a great deal of influence over the person).

They will steal away the respect people have for that person and he will be disgraced. Due to his greed and love of the world, whenever he meets them, he will greet them, he will visit them when they are sick, and these acts of his are not for the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala. It would be much better for him if he were not dependent on these people. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Let us supplicate and ask Allah Ta’ala not to make us dependant on anyone except Him and His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and may He also protect our Scholars from ever having to extend their hands out of need at the door of any worldly person. Rather, may He make the Scholars the means by which the creations of Allah Ta’ala fill their laps with treasures, and may He grant our Scholars respect and admiration, Aameen.

Hazrat Bahzareen Hakeem Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who welcomes Scholars, verily he has welcomed me; the person who goes to meet with Scholars, definitely he has come to meet me; the one who sits with Scholars, verily he has sat with me; and the one who sits with me, definitely he has sat in the Court of my Lord.” 2

RESPECT OF SCHOLARS

1 Makaashifatil Quloob Pages 259-260

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Hazrat Abu Amama Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “No one will think of the rights of Scholars as worthless except hypocrites.” 1`

Hazrat Jaabir bin ‘Abdullah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “No one will think of the rights of Scholars as worthless except clear hypocrites.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The status and honour of Scholars is clear and obvious for all to see, but there is no respect or value extended to Scholars nowadays. Remember that a person who has contempt for Scholars, or does not respect them in his heart, in the light of these Ahadith is a hypocrite. Allahu Akbar! May Allah Ta’ala save us all from hypocrisy and guide us to respect the Scholars, Aameen.

NOT FROM MY UMMAH

Hazrat ‘Abadah bin Saamat Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who does not recognise the rights of our Scholars is not from my Ummah.” 3

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Until we are able to understand the status of Scholars we will remain incapable of recognising and fulfilling the rights of Scholars. Remember, it is the right of Scholars that they should be honoured, respected, have their needs fulfilled, have their orders that are according to the Qur’an and Sunnah obeyed. It also the right of Scholars not to be mocked, or the subject of backbiting; nor should we lack or fall behind in assisting them.

If we do not respect and fulfil the rights of Scholars, we will disappoint Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Therefore it is crucial for us that we always respect and fulfil the rights of Scholars and thereby please Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to do this, Aameen.

1 Jaami’ul Ahadith, Tibraani 2 Jaami’ul Ahadith, Kanzul A’maal 3 Jaami’ul Ahadith, Masnad Ahmed bin Hanbal

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RISK OF INFIDELITY

The person who harbours hatred or enmity against a Scholar without a valid, clear reason risks losing his faith. My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We have seen the end result of many people who had hatred in their hearts for Scholars and who ridiculed Scholars. Allahu Akbar! They are forced to live their lives in poverty and are disgraced, but the worst thing is that because of their animosity and hatred for Scholars, there is a prevailing danger of them losing the greatest of wealth, which is their faith. We should all make sure that we never make the same mistake and never have any malice or ill feeling towards our blessed Scholars. May Allah Ta’ala guide us to respect and honour our elders and Scholars, Aameen.

Hazrat ‘Abdullah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that the Leader of the Muslims, Hazrat ‘Ali Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu went to someone’s house. The owner of the house welcomed him and seated him with great respect and honour. After taking his seat, Hazrat ‘Ali Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu said, “Only a fool would reject words of respect.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! When someone gives you respect, you should not reject it. If there are Scholars present and someone presents you with the seat of honour, you should present that to the Scholars as they have more right to it. In this manner, Allah Ta’ala, His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and these deputies of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam will be pleased, Insha Allah, and the person will see the results of this service in both worlds. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the ability to fulfil the rights of all people diligently, Aameen.

HE IS A HYPOCRITE

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Hazrat Jaabir bin ‘Abdullah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “There are three kinds of people whose rights will not be seen as worthless except by hypocrites, clear-cut barefaced hypocrites. The three types of people are: an elderly Muslim, a fair Muslim King, and a Scholar who teaches good things to Muslims.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Let us supplicate that Allah Ta’ala grants us the ability to understand and fulfil the rights of the three groups of people mentioned above, especially the rights of our Scholars, Aameen.

A person who calls a scholar evil, simply because he is a scholar is without doubt a clear infidel (Kaafir). If, a person knows and believes that a scholar by virtue of his knowledge should be respected, but calls him evil or curses him or disrespects him due to some worldly matter is a great sinner and transgressor. If, for no reason, he has animosity and hatred for the Scholar, he has a diseased heart, has hidden evil and there is a real danger that he will lose his faith. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We are ordered to keep our hearts free from evil thoughts in relation to normal Muslims, but it is stressed even more so for our hearts to be pure in terms of the thoughts and feelings we have for our Scholars and for us to have love for them in our hearts. These acts and deeds will ensure that we die with faith, Insha Allah. May Allah Ta’ala accept all our deeds, Aameen.

A SCHOLAR…AND…AN ILLITERATE

A’ala Hazrat Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Faazil e Bareilly Rehmatullahe ‘Alaih states that when Allah Ta’ala does not grant the Scholars and the illiterates the same rank, it is also imperative for Muslims to differentiate between them. This means that the Scholars should be given the utmost respect and seated at the head of any gathering, as it is the right of Scholars, elders, spiritual

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successors, delegates, and those who are loved and respected to occupy this position according to both Islamic law and common law.

It must be noted that it is forbidden and not permissible for scholars and descendants (Sa’aadaat) of Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam to seek and insist upon this by virtue of who they are as this is pride and pride is strictly forbidden and is a great sin, “…Is hell not the abode for those with pride?”

When the master of all Scholars, the father of all the descendants (Sa’aadaat), leader of the worlds Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam showed great humility and humbleness, and did not want to be treated differently than those around him, what right do others have to demand this?

However, Muslims are ordered to respect Scholars and the family of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam more than anyone else. This does not mean that they should themselves demand to be treated differently or respected more or set certain limits, but means that when Muslims differentiate them and respect them of their own will, this is not forbidden for them to accept. 1

DISGRACE ON THE DAY OF JUDGEMENT

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who insults a Scholar, verily he has insulted knowledge of the religion; he who insults the knowledge of the religion, verily he has insulted Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam; he who insults the Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, undoubtedly he has insulted Jibreel ‘Alaihis

Salaam; the one who insults Jibreel ‘Alaihis Salaam, verily he has insulted Allah Ta’ala; the one who insults Allah Ta’ala will be disgraced and shamed by Allah Ta’ala on the Day of Judgement. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Allahu Akbar! May Allah Ta’ala protect us all from disgrace and

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shame on the Day of Judgement and grant us respect and success in both worlds, Aameen.

RIGHTS OF A SCHOLAR

Hazrat Abu Dhar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Scholars are proof and confirmation of Allah Ta’ala and one who finds faults in Scholars is ruined. 1

Hazrat ‘Abadah bin Saamat Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who does not recognise the rights of our Scholars is not from my Ummah.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We are told the reasons for the ruin and disgrace of the Muslim Ummah in the previous Ahadith. Illiterate people are seen trying to find faults in Scholars. If only they would realise what the true status and rank of Scholars is. For Allah Ta’ala’s sake! Save yourselves from these despicable acts and concentrate on your own faults and shortcomings. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

WEAKENED HIS OWN FAITH

Hazrat Allama Imam Fakhruddin Raazi Rehmatullahe ‘Alaih writes that one who thinks of a Scholar as worthless, has weakened his own faith. 3

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! It is because of knowledge of the religion that the status of Scholars is so exalted and elevated. How will the faith of someone who thinks that a Scholar is worthless or that knowledge of the religion is worthless remain protected? It is important for us to respect Scholars and respect our religion and faith. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to respect all, Aameen.

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GREAT SINNER AND TRANSGRESSOR

A’ala Hazrat, leader of Ahle Sunnah, Imam Ahmed Raza Faazil e Bareilly Rehmatullahe ‘Alaih writes that ‘if a person calls a Scholar evil, simply because he is a Scholar, then this is clear infidelity (Kufr). If, because of the Scholar’s knowledge, the person understands and believes that the Scholar must be respected, but because of some worldly matter he calls him evil, curses at him, or disrespects him, then he is a great sinner and transgressor. If, for no reason, he has animosity and hatred for the Scholar, he has a diseased heart, has hidden evil and there is a real danger that he will lose his faith.’ In explaining this, he quotes the Hadith that states “The person who hates a Scholar on the basis that he is a Scholar, is in danger of becoming an infidel.” It is stated in “Manhar Raudul Azhar” that it is obvious that he will become an infidel. 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Just imagine, if there is a risk of becoming an infidel just for having hatred in the heart, what will the result be of actually insulting them? Allahu Akbar! We should make sure that our hearts are clean and do not contain any negative or bad thoughts about our Scholars so that our faith is safeguarded. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

RAISED STATUS

This ray of light (A’ala Hazrat, leader of Ahle Sunnah, Imam Ahmed Raza Faazil e Bareilly Rehmatullahe ‘Alaih) quotes from “Durr e Mukhtar” that Allah Ta’ala said, “…He will raise the status of Scholars.“ Allah Ta’ala has elevated the status of Scholars, therefore Allah Ta’ala will throw the person who tries to lower or belittle their status into the fire of Hell. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Beware! Never try to belittle a Scholar or think of them as worthless, as nothing happens on the command of humans; only those things that are commanded by Allah Ta’ala will reach

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fruition. When Allah Ta’ala has granted Scholars an exalted status, the person who thinks of them as worthless or insignificant will become the target of the Wrath of Allah Ta’ala. Allahu Akbar! It is necessary for us to remain connected to our Scholars. Insha Allah, through them, Allah Ta’ala will elevate our status too. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to understand the status of our Scholars and elders, Aameen.

CONTEMPT OF A SCHOLAR…INFIDELITY The reviver of the 14th century further writes from “Majmu’al Anhaar” that the person who calls a Scholar “Mooloya” or any other name out of hatred or contempt is an infidel. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! To use words or titles of contempt for a Scholar destroys faith. Do the Muslims of today not use derogatory terms when referring to Scholars? Remember, we should fear Allah Ta’ala and protect ourselves from insulting these deputies of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to respect all our Scholars, Aameen.

DETACHMENT FROM SCHOLARS IS POISON

This great lover and slave of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam also states that to criticise the errors of Scholars is unlawful, and to stay away from these guiding lights because of it and to forsake benefiting from their judgements is poison. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We should keep your relationship with Scholars firm and strong at all times and in all circumstances. Spending time in their company will increase our knowledge and their wisdom-filled words will illuminate our hearts with light and blessings, and expel laziness. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to spend time in the company of Scholars, Aameen.

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Sadrush Shariah Hazrat Allama Amjad Ali Qadri ‘Alaihir Rahmah writes that disrespecting and insulting knowledge of the religion or Scholars, simply because of what they are, is infidelity (Kufr). 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We must never insult our Scholars and never think of their knowledge as less than the knowledge of worldly academics, otherwise remember, we will lose the great treasure of faith. May Allah Ta’ala guard our faith through the blessed glances of kindness of our pious Scholars, Aameen.

SCHOLARS GATHERINGS…WORSHIP

Hazrat ‘Abdullah Ibn ‘Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “To sit with Scholars is an act of worship.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The enthusiasm to benefit from spending time in the company of Scholars has totally disappeared nowadays. The fact is that, on the basis of a few deeds and a few worships, a person now thinks that he is somehow a superior person.

For Allah’s sake! Reform yourselves and spend time in the company of our Scholars. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to profit from the company of our Scholars and elders, Aameen.

GARDENS OF PARADISE

Hazrat ‘Abdullah Ibn ‘Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “When you pass the gardens of Paradise, pick something (benefit from them).” He was asked, “What are the gardens of Paradise?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam replied, “Gatherings of Scholars.” 3

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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We understand the value of Scholars and the blessings of their gatherings from the Hadith mentioned above, therefore, we should always try to attend and benefit from the assemblies of Scholars. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

BETTER THAN A YEARS WORSHIP

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that “To listen to a single point of Islamic law is better than one years worship, and to sit in the company of a Scholar of religion for one moment is better than freeing a slave.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The above Hadith shines light on the rewards of discussing Islamic laws and commands. We should all try to partake in religious discussions and in the gatherings where Scholars talk about Islamic laws and Islamic teachings. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

THE BEST GATHERINGS ARE THE GATHERINGS OF SCHOLARS

Leader of the Faithful, Hazrat ‘Umar bin Khattaab Radiallaho Ta’ala

‘Anhu narrates that “Do not stay away from the gatherings of Scholars because Allah Ta’ala has not created a better place on the earth than the earth on which these gatherings are held.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! When there are no gatherings that are better than the gatherings of Scholars, it is crucial for us to attend those gatherings so that, by partaking in these exalted gatherings, we may also become exalted. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to take part in the gatherings of our Scholars, Aameen.

COMPANY OF A SCHOLAR

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Ghauth e Samdaani, Qutb e Rabbani, Hazrat Shaikh ‘Abdul Qadir Jilani Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu writes that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam said, “Sit in the company of Scholars who remove five things from you and replace them with five other things; (1) Removes love of this world and replaces it with piety; (2) Replaces hypocrisy with sincerity; (3) Replaces pride with humility; (4) Removes laziness and encourages you to speak and teach others; (5) Removes ignorance and teaches you knowledge.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Alhamdo Lillah! There are many Scholars, even today, who possess all the qualities mentioned above, therefore benefit from them, spend time in their company, and act upon their advice and teachings. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to profit from the Scholars of truth, Aameen.

SEVEN QUALITIES

Hazrat Faqih Abul Laith Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih said that the person who sits in the company of Scholars and listens to them, but does not remember anything still possesses seven qualities:

1. He receives reward for acquiring knowledge.

2. For as long as he is sat in the gathering, he will be protected from committing any sins.

3. When he leaves his home to learn knowledge, mercy will descend upon him.

4. When he sits in the gathering of knowledge, he also gets a share of the mercy that is showered on the gathering.

5. For as long as he sits and listens, it will be written that he is obedient.

6. When he listens to something and does not understand it’s meaning, he will become disheartened. This grief and sadness will become a means by which he obtains closeness to Allah Ta’ala, because Allah Ta’ala has said, ‘I am with those people whose hearts will be broken out of love for Me.’ 2

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7. When he sees Muslims respect the Scholars and disrespect transgressors, his heart will also begin to hate sins and will also be drawn towards religious knowledge. This is why Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has ordered us to sit with pious people. 1

EIGHT TYPES OF PEOPLE

Hazrat Faqih Abul Laith Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states that the person who sits with eight kinds of people, Allah Ta’ala will fill him with eight things:

The one who sits with rich people will have the love and desire of this world increased in his heart.

The one who sits with mystics (Darvaish) will be guided to thank Allah Ta’ala for His blessings and favours.

The one who sits with Kings will have more pride and harshness.

The one who sits with women will become more lustful and ignorant.

The one who sits with children will joke and laugh too much (become more like a child).

The one who sits with sinners will be overwhelmed with sins.

The one who sits with pious people will be filled with obedience.

The one who sits with Scholars will be filled with knowledge and piety. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! It is saddening to see that we sit with people and in places where we should not be. Remember! We should sit with Scholars so that we gain piety, and respect is only obtainable from their gatherings. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to profit from our Scholars, Aameen.

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HESITATION OF THE TONGUE DISAPPEARS

Hazrat Imam Hasan bin ‘Ali Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma has said that, “The hesitation in speaking disappears from a person who regularly attends the gatherings of Scholars; his mind also opens up allowing him to understand complex issues, furthermore, everything he obtains becomes a source of happiness. His knowledge is like a friend to him and is also very beneficial for him.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Undoubtedly, the person who sits in the company of Scholars is never left deprived, rather, he is given the good fortune to listen to great words of wisdom and advice. Through sitting in the gatherings of Scholars, a person himself becomes worthy of respect and adulation. We should therefore try to always stay close to our Scholars.

QUR’AN WITHOUT KNOWLEDGE

Hazrat Abu Dhar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Sitting in a religious gathering is better than praying 1000 rak’at’s of prayer, visiting 1000 sick people, and attending 1000 funeral prayers.” Someone asked, “Is it even better than reciting the Holy Qur’an?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam replied, “How will the Qur’an profit you without knowledge?” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We should allocate a portion of our time for reciting the Qur’an. Reciting it with the translation (Kanzul Iman) will be very beneficial and profitable. Also, we should make it compulsory upon ourselves to attend the gatherings of our Scholars, and Insha Allah we will certainly see the benefits of this in both worlds. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the utmost guidance, Aameen.

RASOOL ALLAH IN A GATHERING Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam

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One day Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam stepped outside and saw two gatherings. The first was supplicating (making Du’a) to Allah Ta’ala, whilst in the second gathering people were being taught knowledge. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The first gathering is asking from Allah Ta’ala, and if He desires He will give to them what they seek, and if He does not want to give, He will not give them what they seek. In the second gathering people are being taught knowledge, and Allah Ta’ala has sent me as a teacher.”

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam then went and sat down in the second gathering and said, “The example of what Allah Ta’ala sent me with (guidance and knowledge), is like rain that falls on the earth; part of the earth captures the rain and produces grass and many crops; part of the earth does not accept the rain but rejects it. Allah Ta’ala gives benefit to the parts that drink the water and produces crops, but the parts of the earth that do not accept the water has nothing growing on it.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! By sitting in the gathering of knowledge, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam made it clear that he prefers the gatherings of knowledge above all other gatherings. We should attend the gatherings that are preferred by Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam and partake in gatherings of knowledge. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

HAZRAT LUQMAN’S ADVICE

Hazrat Luqman Hakeem Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih advised his son, “O my son, sit in the company of Scholars, and sit respectfully in front of them, because Allah Ta’ala brings life to the heart with the light of wisdom, just as he brings the earth to life with rain.” 2 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! When such a wise, renowned, wise and learned person like Hazrat Luqman Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih advised his own son to sit in the company of Scholars in order to benefit from them, we

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should also benefit from this advice, pass on this advice to our children, and get them to spend time in the company of Scholars. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to spend time in the company of Scholars, Aameen.

COMPENSATION FOR 70 GATHERINGS

Hazrat ‘Ataa Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states that the discussions of one gathering of knowledge are sufficient compensation for 70 unproductive gatherings.

Hazrat ‘Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu states that, “The deaths of a thousand steadfast worshippers who fast and worship throughout the night is a lesser loss than the death of a scholar who is an expert in what Allah Ta’ala has made lawful and unlawful. 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Subhan Allah! The appreciation of what is lawful and unlawful is so important in Islam because, a morsel of unlawful food eaten ruins the reward of worship of forty days. To protect ourselves from such harm, it is necessary to attend religious gatherings, that is, gatherings of Scholars. May Allah Ta’ala bless the lives and deeds of our Scholars and guide us all to benefit from then, Aameen.

IMPORTANCE OF KNOWLEDGE IN THE EYES OF OUR PIOUS PREDECESSORS

KEY OF KNOWLEDGE

Hazrat ‘Ali Karramallahu Ta’ala Wajhahul Kareem narrates that, “Knowledge is a treasure and its key is to ask questions. Ask questions and Allah Ta’ala will have mercy on you.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Allah Ta’ala has said in the Qur’an that those who do not know should ask those who do know. Nowadays, if we don’t know something, we are too embarrassed to ask. We should ask

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the Scholars and spiritual guides for the answers to what we do not know. By asking questions we will not lose respect, instead it will ensure that Allah Ta’ala showers us with mercy.

Everybody wants Allah Ta’ala to shower them with mercy, and the easiest way to do this is to go to the Scholars of the Ahle Sunnah and to ask them questions so that we can get the answers to our problems and issues, and also increase our knowledge at the same time. This will further make us deserving of the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to obtain knowledge, Aameen.

WHO IS THE ORPHAN?

Hazrat ‘Ali Karramallahu Ta’ala Wajhahul Kareem said, “True beauty is not in the clothes that beautify us, rather beauty comes from knowledge and respect. The person whose father dies is not an orphan, the real orphan is one who is empty of knowledge and nobility.”

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! People try to beautify themselves through the clothes they wear, when in actual fact the real beauty of humans is in knowledge and respect. People consider one whose father has passed away as an orphan. However, Hazrat ‘Ali Karramallahu Ta’ala

Wajhahul Kareem says that the real orphan is one who is empty of knowledge and nobility. Allahu Akbar! If only we would pay attention to and remember the words of the Lion of Allah Ta’ala Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the proper ideals and principals, Aameen.

MOMENTARY WEALTH… PERMANENT KNOWLEDGE

The Lion of Allah Ta’ala, Hazrat ‘Ali Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu said,

“We are happy with the decision of Allah Ta’ala He gave us knowledge and gave our countrymen wealth

Because the wealth will perish soon And knowledge will remain, it will never end.”

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! True Scholars of the religion are never saddened when they see

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rich people leading a life of luxury and lavishness. According to the words of Maula ‘Ali Karramallahu Ta’ala Wajhahul Kareem, the person who is granted knowledge should be pleased and happy, as Allah Ta’ala has granted them the thing that will remain forever, and has protected them from the thing which will undoubtedly perish and be gone. This knowledge will also be the means by which benefits will be gained in this world and the hereafter. May Allah Ta’ala guide us to safeguard the knowledge we have, Aameen.

A CROWN

Hazrat Sayyedina ‘Ali Karramallahu Ta’ala Wajhahul Kareem said,

“Knowledge is in the hearts like the sun is in the sky Wisdom for a person is like a crown for a King

Tie your hands securely with the warmth of knowledge Knowledge for a man is like water for a fish.”

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We understand from the words of Hazrat ‘Ali Karramallahu Ta’ala

Wajhahul Kareem that just as the sun brightens the world, one with knowledge brightens the hearts of people. The sun can only illuminate the earth, not the hearts of people.

The people whose hearts have been made a place of knowledge by Allah Ta’ala, illuminate and bring back to life the dead hearts of people around them with the light of knowledge. If, together with knowledge, Allah Ta’ala has blessed them with a sound mind and understanding, they will shower people with pearls of wisdom wherever they go. Just as a crown on the head of a King displays his prestige, similarly, wisdom and understanding gives knowledge dignity and majesty. May Allah Ta’ala grant us all the great wealth that is knowledge, wisdom and understanding, Aameen.

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GOOD QUALITIES

Hazrat ‘Ali Karramallahu Ta’ala Wajhahul Kareem stated that, “Knowledge is the best friend of a believer; destruction is his prime minister; wisdom is his proof; deeds are his leader; calmness is his father; and patience is the commander of his army; therefore stop yourselves from those habits that will ruin these good qualities.

THE BEST WEALTH

Hazrat ‘Ali Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu stated that there are seven reasons why knowledge is better than wealth:

1. Knowledge is the legacy of the Prophets ‘Alaihimus Salaam and wealth is the legacy of Firaun (Pharaoh).

2. Knowledge does not diminish if used, but wealth does..

3. Wealth needs to be looked after whilst knowledge looks after the Scholar.

4. When a person dies, his wealth remains in this world, whereas knowledge goes with him into the grave.

5. Wealth is obtained by believers and non-believers. Knowledge of the religion is only obtained by the believers.

6. Everyone is dependent on the Scholar for their questions and concerns. No one is dependant in such a way on the wealthy.

7. Knowledge will give a person strength to cross the bridge on the Day of Judgement. Wealth will be an obstacle for a person crossing it. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Hazrat ‘Ali Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu has explained the excellence of knowledge very clearly and with easy to understand examples. Will a person still hesitate or be lazy in obtaining knowledge? Today we try and gain respect by using our mind, and then think that there is no one wiser than us. Do people today not say that he who has no wealth is nothing?

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Wealth is definitely necessary, but it is not better than knowledge, and you have seen and read why it is not better. Who can know more about what is better for us than the Blessed ‘door to the City of Knowledge,’ Hazrat ‘Ali Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu? Therefore, we should correct our minds and our mentality and try to give knowledge more importance. May Allah Ta’ala grant us all knowledge that benefits us through the alms of Hazrat ‘Ali Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu, Aameen.

THIS IS CHARITY

Hazrat Hasan Basri Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu reports that the gaining of knowledge, acting upon it and teaching it to others is charity. 1

KNOWLEDGE AND WEALTH

Hazrat Ibn Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Knowledge and wealth hide all faults, and ignorance and poverty expose all faults.” 2 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Our pious predecessors did not live their lives in great luxury, they were very humble and preferred simplicity. However, when they spoke, the words of wisdom and knowledge that emanated from their lips would force even the wealthiest people of the generation to pay them respect. Knowledge hides many a fault of a person and wealth, if lawfully accumulated and spent in good causes also hides many a fault. Therefore we should all try to gain knowledge and wealth so that we can use them for good purposes.

EXAMPLE OF KNOWLEDGE

Hazrat Allama Imam Fakhruddin Raazi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih quotes the words of Allah Ta’ala,

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“He sent down water from the sky, then the channels flow according to its capacity, then the flux of water carried with it the

swelling foam…“ 1

In relation to this verse, some commentators of the Qur’an have stated that “water” here refers to knowledge and in support of this they have given give five reasons for this:

1. Rain comes from the heavens; knowledge also comes from the heavens.

2. The earth is corrected through rain and people are corrected through knowledge.

3. Just as crops and greenery will not grow without rain, obedience and worship cannot be born without knowledge.

4. Rain is the root of thunder and lightning, knowledge is the root of promises and threats.

5. Just as rain provides many benefits but can also cause damage, similarly knowledge also benefits and damages. If a person acts on the knowledge it is beneficial; if he does not act upon it then it is damaging. 2

LIFE FOR A DEAD HEART

Hazrat Allama Imam Fakhruddin Raazi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes that the heart is basically dead and it is knowledge that gives life to the heart.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Excessive laughter, backbiting, telling tales, lying, excessive eating etc causes the heart to die. To give it life, you need knowledge. Only by knowing of the darkness of the heart and the punishment for sins can one repent and give the heart

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new life. The heart is refreshed and obtains great pleasure when it is in the gatherings of knowledge, in the company of Scholars, or when studying a book. Therefore, if we want to give our hearts brightness and a new life, we should feed it with knowledge. May Allah Ta’ala grant us all hearts that are alive, Aameen.

Hazrat Allama Ibn Hajar ‘Asqalaani Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes that just as rain gives new life to a dead city, similarly, knowledge of the religion grants life to a dead heart. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! A heart is like a city, the only difference is that a city is home to people and things that will perish and die, whereas the heart is home to the beauties and wonders of the Lord. If you want to keep it alive, this is only possible with knowledge of the religion. Just as rain gives new life to a dead city, knowledge of the religion will give new life to our dead hearts. May Allah Ta’ala grant us hearts that are alive and constantly in remembrance of Him, Aameen.

KNOWLEDGE AFTER PROPHETHOOD

Hazrat ‘Alayee reports on the authority of Hazrat Ibn ‘Ayyana Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu who narrated that, “After Prophethood, Allah Ta’ala did not create anything better than knowledge. In his commentary of the verse, “He will give you life after death", he says that Allah Ta’ala grants me death from ignorance and life through knowledge. He continues on and says the verse “Only those of His bondmen who possess knowledge fear Allah...“ is undoubtedly true as only those with knowledge are the embodiment of fear of Allah Ta’ala. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Those with knowledge and those who are illiterate and ignorant cannot ever be the same. The reason that the majority of people do not have fear of Allah Ta’ala is because they lack knowledge. If a person has knowledge, he will definitely have fear of Allah Ta’ala; if he has fear of Allah Ta’ala, he will certainly gain respect. Therefore, we should understand the above verse and

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obtain knowledge so that we can fill our hearts with the fear of Allah Ta’ala and become pious. We will then become deserving of respect. May Allah Ta’ala grant us all the desire to seek knowledge, Aameen.

TEACHING ILLITERATE ONES IS CHARITY

It is stated in “Nuzhatul Majaalis” that to seek knowledge is in itself worship, it is the same as religious discussions, rosaries (Tasbeeh), and glorifying Allah Ta’ala. A religious debate is like Jihad; teaching illiterate people is like giving charity; teaching your family alone is a means of closeness to Allah Ta’ala. Knowledge is a means by which lawful and unlawful things are known.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! No one should think that there is no benefit in obtaining knowledge, in studying books, or in spending time in the company of the Scholars of Ahle Sunnah. O ignorant one! This is the same as praising and glorifying Allah Ta’ala and a religious debate is like going out with a sword and fighting for the sake of Allah Ta’ala. Just as a warrior puts his life on the line and battles the enemies of Islam to make Islam victorious, debating issues and topics of the religion with each other is the same.

Charity is not just simply the giving of money, rather teaching those who do not know is also a charity. To strive to teach an individual who really wants to learn is a means to obtain closeness to Allah Ta’ala. Tell me now, how much benefit is there in it? Therefore, we should teach whatever we know to each other and gain rewards. May Allah Ta’ala bless us all with graces and, through the alms of His Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, may He guide us all to act upon the knowledge that we have, and guide us all to strive to ensure that Islam is victorious, Aameen.

DEPRIVED OF BLESSINGS

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Learning and teaching is better than staying up all night and worshipping. It is only knowledge that safeguards kindness and

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compassion; it is only knowledge that is the means by which one can identify and differentiate between what is lawful and what is unlawful; and deeds are the loyal servant of knowledge. Allah Ta’ala blesses the pious people with divine inspiration (Ilhaam), whilst the evil ones are deprived of this great blessing. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Due to lack of knowledge, the distinction between lawful and unlawful has been completely forgotten nowadays, and the rights that have been given to our family members and relatives by Allah Ta’ala and His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam are not fulfilled. The result of this is that we are unable to fulfill our rights to them and it therefore comes as no surprise that every home is filled with fights, arguments and restlessness. We should all obtain knowledge and close the door to all difficulties. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

WHICH GATHERING IS BETTER?

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam sat amongst the Companions Ridwanullahe Ta’ala Alaihim Ajmaeen on one occasion and said, “Sitting in a gathering of knowledge is better than praying 1000 rak’at’s of prayer, visiting 1000 sick people, and attending 1000 funeral prayers. Someone asked, ‘Is it even better than reciting the Holy Qur’an?’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam replied, “Will you recite the Qur’an without knowledge? Teaching the Qur’an is also knowledge?” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! You have seen and read the blessings of acquiring knowledge. Is it possible, in this day and age, for someone to perform 1000 rak’ats of prayer and visit 1000 sick people? The answer to this is an obvious “No.” If we want to earn the same reward as this, then we should prepare ourselves to obtain knowledge from this day onwards, and fill our book of deeds with rewards. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to obtain knowledge, Aameen.

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WORDS OF WISDOM

HAZRAT IMAM SHAAF’I (Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu)

The one who learnt knowledge of the Quran has increased his value.

The one who learnt knowledge of Jurisprudence (Fiqh) has increased his respect.

The one who learnt knowledge of the Ahadith has made his argument stronger.

The one who learnt knowledge of accounting, his understanding became complete.

The one who learns about rare and wonderful things, his disposition became softer.

The one who did not respect himself did not benefit from his knowledge at all. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! In a very concise yet very enlightening manner, Hazrat Imam Shaaf’i ‘Alaihir Rahmah has explained the benefits of the knowledge of the Qur’an, Jurisprudence, Hadith, and Mathematics etc.

It is our misfortune that those who have knowledge of the Qur’an are looked at with contempt and scorn by most people. We are not saying that we should stay away from obtaining worldly knowledge, rather, what we are saying is that obtain both worldly and religious knowledge. When it comes to respect and honour, the Scholar of religion should be extended greater courtesy than a worldly academic, by doing so we also please the Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. We should also however pay due respect and courtesy to the academic, as he too possesses knowledge that is of benefit to us. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the benefits of the words of knowledge and wisdom that is mentioned in the above words of Imam Shaf’i ‘Alaihir Rahmah, and grant us all the guidance to always use the knowledge to better ourselves and those around us, Aameen.

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SIX QUALITIES OF A BELIEVER

Hazrat Allama Imam Fakhruddin Raazi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes that believers obtain knowledge because of six qualities and beauties that are present in them:

Allah Ta’ala has ordered me to perform certain compulsory acts and I cannot perform them without knowledge.

Allah Ta’ala has ordered me to stay away from sins and I cannot avoid them without knowledge.

Allah Ta’ala has ordered me to be thankful for the blessings that I have and I cannot be thankful without knowledge.

Allah Ta’ala has ordered me to treat all creations fairly and I cannot do that without knowledge.

Allah Ta’ala has ordered me to be patient during difficulties and I cannot do that without knowledge.

Allah Ta’ala has ordered me to be an enemy of shaitaan and I cannot do that without knowledge. 1

GO TO CHINA…

Hazrat Anas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “To obtain knowledge is compulsory on all Muslim men (and women). Teaching knowledge to those who are unworthy is like putting a necklace of diamonds and pearls around the neck of a pig.” 2

Hazrat Anas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Obtain knowledge of the religion, even if you have to go to China.” 3 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! In the time when there were no aeroplanes, trains, or motor vehicles, and travelling to China was incredibly difficult,

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Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam still commanded the believers to obtain knowledge, even if it required going to China to do so and not to show any laziness in it.

BE GENTLE

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Obtain knowledge, and for knowledge learn dignity and awe, and be gentle to those who are learning from you.” 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! It is necessary for those with knowledge to value the great blessing that Allah Ta’ala has granted them. If he has no dignity and no appreciation of the gravity of knowledge, the people that he is teaching will not benefit from him. Therefore, it is necessary for a teacher not to lose his intellectual majesty and make sure the student remains in awe of him. Together with this, he should show great love and gentleness towards the students because of their willingness to learn. The more kindness that he shows towards them; the more eager they will be to learn. May Allah Ta’ala make us respectful of knowledge and guide us all to act accordingly, Aameen.

OBTAINING KNOWLEDGE BETTER THAN PRAYER

Hazrat Abu Dhar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “When you learn one portion of knowledge, this is better for you than praying 1000 rak’ats of voluntary prayers that are accepted.” 2

WHAT DEED…AT THE TIME OF DEATH?

Hazrat Allama Imam Raazi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam was talking to a Companion. At that moment, it was ‘Asr time and Allah Ta’ala revealed to His Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam that the Companion that he was

1 Tibraani, Kanzul A’maal Vol 1 Page 80 2 Kanzul A’maal Vol 1 Page 93

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talking to only had a short time left to live. Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam made the Companion aware of this revelation and the Companion asked, “Ya Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, tell me something that I can do that is most beneficial for me at this time?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Occupy yourself in obtaining knowledge.” The Companion began obtaining knowledge and before Maghrib he passed away. The narrator reports that if there was anything better than knowledge, then Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam would have told the Companion to do that instead at that time. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Very exalted is the excellence of knowledge that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam showed his slaves that the best deed in the sight of Allah Ta’ala and His Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is obtaining knowledge. The Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam preferred that his Companion should pass away whilst he was obtaining knowledge. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to obtain knowledge until our final breath, Aameen.

MOHADDITH E DEHLVI’S PROCLAMATIONS

Hazrat Shaikh Abdul Haq Muhaddith e Dehlvi Bukhari Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states that knowledge means the knowledge that is needed by Muslims at certain times, for example:

When a person enters into the folds of Islam, it is compulsory for him to know about Allah Ta’ala, His qualities, and about the Prophethood of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. He also has to have knowledge of all those things without which faith is not complete.

When it becomes the time for prayers, it is compulsory for him to know the rules and conditions of prayer. When the month of Ramadhan arrives, he must know the rules of fasting.

When he reaches the threshold for paying Zakat, it is compulsory for him to know the rules of Zakat. If he dies

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before he reaches the threshold for paying Zakat, and did not learn the rules, then he is not a sinner.

When he gets married it is necessary for him to know rules about menstruation, blood loss etc. that affect women. 1

BUSINESSMEN LASHED

Hazrat Allama Imam Ghazali Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes that Hazrat ‘Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu would lash businessmen (have them whipped/punished) to make sure that they went and obtained knowledge. He used to say that the person who does not know the rules of buying and selling should not be doing business, because he may take interest unknowingly due to his lack of knowledge.

In this way, there is knowledge and rules for all professions and trades. Even a barber must know from which parts of the body hair can and cannot be removed. It is necessary to know the rules that apply to your profession; for example, it is not necessary for a tailor to know about the rules that apply to a barber. 2

KNOWLEDGE AND SCHOLARS

Faqih e Millat Mufti Jalaluddin Amjadi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes in his book “Knowledge & Scholars” that the excellences that are mentioned in the Qur’an and Ahadith about Scholars refers to those who actually possess knowledge, regardless of whether they possess a certificate or not, as a certificate is nothing; this is especially the case in this generation, as even ignorant ones are given certificates stating that they are Scholars.

A’ala Hazrat Imam Ahmed Raza Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes that certificates are nothing, as those with the best certificates are often lacking and undeserving. 3 He further writes that to obtain a certificate is nothing, to receive education and

1 Ash’atul Lam’aat Page 161 2 Keemyaa e Sa’aadat Page 129 3 Fatawa e Razvia Vol 10 page 231

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knowledge and be taught properly is necessary, whether it is in a madrasa or at a Scholar’s home, because half knowledge is dangerous. 1

WHAT IS MEANT BY KNOWLEDGE?

Hazrat Mulla ‘Ali Qari Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih writes that commentators of the Ahadith have stated that knowledge means knowledge of the religion, which is compulsory for believers to obtain. Compulsory knowledge includes recognising Allah Ta’ala, understanding Allah Ta’ala’s Oneness, the identities of His Prophets, how to perform prayer, as well as other aspects of the religion, including how to perform Salah. It is compulsory on all believers to know these things individually. To know the status of rulings (Fatawa), and exercise of judgement (Ijtehad) is compulsory on the community as a whole (Fardh e Kifayah), as long as some people are aware of it, the whole community is absolved of the responsibility. 2

1 Fatawa e Razvia Vol 10 page 572 2 Mirqah Sharh e Mishkat Vol 1 Page 233

To instil love for knowledge & Scholars in our hearts

Read & Teach

Barkaat e Shariat every day in your homes and Mosques for 5 minutes. Insha Allah you will gain

closeness to the Qur’an, closeness to Rasool Allah (Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam), & closeness to knowledge & Scholars.


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RREEPPEENNTTAANNCCEE


SINCERE REPENTANCE

The Supreme Lord of all the Worlds says in the Glorious Qur’an,

“O believers! Turn towards Allah in such a way that it may become an admonition for future.” 1

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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! There are many people who repent and seek forgiveness for their sins believing that this is achieved by merely shedding a couple of tears. Very few people, on the other hand appreciate the true meaning of repentance (Tauba). In order to guide us to true repentance Allah Ta’ala states, ‘O believers! Repent in such a way that it guides you in the future and teaches you a lesson.’

The above verse shows us that the true meaning of repentance is that after seeking forgiveness, even the thought of going near the sin that was committed should make us shake and tremble. However, our condition today is that despite committing sin upon sin, no thought of turning towards Allah Ta’ala or repenting enters our minds. Even if someone does indeed turn towards Allah Ta’ala and repents, usually he stays true to his word for only a few days and then returns back to committing those same sins. O Muslims! We need to understand this verse and seek sincere repentance or let the gratification and pleasure of a few moments ruin our hereafter.

It is states in “Tafseer Roohul Bayaan” in relation to those people who do not abstain from sins even after repenting, that one sin committed after repenting is worse than seventy sins committed before repenting. Allahu Akbar! O Muslims! How many of us try to stay away from sins after repenting? Remember that in this day and age, it is not as difficult to perform good deeds, as it is to stay away from sins. However, may we be sacrificed on the Grace and Mercy of our Lord in that if a person repents sincerely and genuinely, not only does He forgive their sins but He also changes them into good deeds. We should repent with a sincere heart in the Court of Allah Ta’ala today and make a firm intention that we will stay away from sins in the future. We should supplicate that Allah Ta’ala guides us to stay away from sins to make a sincere repentance, Aameen.

MERCY ON ONE WHO REPENTS


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“The repentance whose acceptance has been under taken by Allah with His own Grace is only for those who do evil ignorantly and then again repent soon after. To wards such people Allah turns

with His Mercy; and Allah is Knowing, Wise.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! It is the overwhelming Kindness and Benevolence of Allah Ta’ala that He has made it obligatory upon Himself to accept the repentance of His slaves, even though He is not compelled to do anything. It is also a great blessing and grace of Allah Ta’ala on those people who commit sins, whether they are small sins or large sins, that He accepts their repentance and regret. Man commits sins in ignorance, then before his death or before the pangs of death start to remove his soul, he repents; Yet Allah Ta’ala turns to such people with His Mercy, accepts their repentance and showers them with extreme Kindness and Benevolence. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to make sincere repentance before we die, Aameen.

THAT IS NOT REPENTANCE


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“And that repentance is not neither of those who continue in doing evil until when death comes to anyone of them, he says,

'now I repent' nor for those who die as infidels. For them We have prepared a painful torment.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! This is a warning for those people who commit sins and continue to live their lives fearlessly, without a care, and without any thought of repenting. They should remember that they must repent before the onset of death, otherwise even if they repent a thousand times during the agonies of death, this repentance will not be accepted. The reason it is not accepted is because once the pangs of death have started, repentance is involuntary, not voluntary. Therefore, instead of continuing with sins, we should hurry towards repentance, our Lord is Gracious and He will definitely accept our repentance. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to make a sincere repentance before the agonies of death approach us, Aameen.

IT IS BETTER FOR YOU

“And when Moses said to his people, "O my people, you have done injustice to your souls by taking the Calf, turn therefore

towards your Creator then kill amongst your selves each other. That is better for you with your Creator, so He accepted your penitence. Surely, He is alone the most Relenting, Merciful.” 2

1 Surah Nisa Verse 18 Kanzul Iman 2 Surah Baqara Verse 54 Kanzul Iman

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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam said to those people who started worshipping the calf that they had committed injustice on themselves, and by doing so had made punishment compulsory upon themselves. They had therefore harmed themselves; and the reward that they were getting for being in the presence of Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam was now reduced.

After hearing the words of Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam, they asked what they should now do. In response to their question Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam told them to make a firm intention to repent as they had committed a grave sin. By worshipping the calf, instead of worshipping the One who had given them life; had shaped them all differently and given them different faces; and was free of all faults and defects, they had committed polytheism (shirk).

Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam then informed them that the way for them to repent was for those of them who had not worshipped the calf to kill those who had worshipped the calf. He explained that they would have to obey Allah Ta’ala’s command, and Allah Ta’ala would accept this as repentance from them for the serious crime that they had committed. He further explained to them that Allah Ta’ala accepts repentance and is very Merciful.

Let us inform you about the story of the repentance of the Bani Israel and some issues from former Ummahs as well.

It is reported that when Allah Ta’ala ordered Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam to kill those who had committed polytheism, they all sat down humbly and helplessly. They were told that the repentance of the person, who raised his hands against his killer, looked at his killer, or kicked and screamed, would be cursed and in vain. The transgressors were told to raise their necks so that the person striking the sword could do so easily.

However, in front of those who were to strike the swords, lay their own fathers, sons, brothers, friends etc and therefore they could not bring themselves to carry out the command of Allah Ta’ala. Unable to carry out this task, they turned to Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam to ask what they should do.

On this Allah Ta’ala sent a dark cloud that covered them in total darkness so that they were not able to see each other. The

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killing lasted until the evening and when the area was filled with bodies and blood, Hazrat Moosa ‘Alaihis Salaam and Hazrat Haroon ‘Alaihis Salaam prayed to Allah Ta’ala and pleaded with Him that some of the Bani Israel should be spared as many had already been killed.

Allah Ta’ala, upon accepting the supplication of the two great Prophets ‘Alaihimus Salaam, removed the cloud, accepted the repentance of the Bani Israel and they were stopped from killing each other. By this time 70,000 people of the Bani Israel had been killed, all of whom are classed as martyrs. Those who were not killed were forgiven for worshipping the calf and Allah Ta’ala sent a revelation that both the killers and those killed would be entered into paradise.

SOME ISSUES INVOLVING PREVIOUS UMMAHS

Killing each other is a very strict punishment, which may be interpreted as extreme, but it was an order from Allah Ta’ala and therefore had to be obeyed.

It was necessary to cut off the part of the body that had committed the sin.

They were not allowed to perform prayer (Salaah) anywhere except in a Mosque.

They could not become pure without the use of water.

If a fasting person fell asleep after the evening meal (Iftaar), it became unlawful (Haram) for them to eat afterwards.

Due to sins, many lawful things were made unlawful on them. It is for this reason that Manna and Quails (Manna wa Salwa) were stopped for them.

Zakat payable was one quarter of all wealth.

The sins that they would commit in the night would be written on their doors in the morning.

It is reported that when the Bani Israel would stand for prayer they would wear large woollen clothes and would tie their hands to their necks.

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It is also reported that they would make a hole in their skull, place an iron chain in it, tie it to a pillar and then worship.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! It is an unimaginable grace of Allah Ta’ala that all the above-mentioned orders were lifted from the Ummah of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. Repentance is one of a number of divine blessings that Allah Ta’ala has only granted to the Ummah of Muhammad Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. There are many stages of repentance, of which we will discuss four in greater detail below.

FOUR STAGES OF REPENTANCE

The first stage is called “Tauba”, which is also the first stage of mysticism. This has been prescribed for the wayward soul (Nafs e Ammarah) and is for everyone. The method of this is to make a firm intention to stay away from all sins and remain firm on the commands and orders of Allah Ta’ala; make up those prayers and worships that you have missed; return the rights to those that you owe them to; apologise to and make happy those people whom you have upset; regret and be sorry for your past sins; and finally make a firm, sincere intention that you will not go near sins in the future.

The second stage of repentance is called “Inaabah.” This means to turn towards the Court of Allah Ta’ala. This is for the self-reproaching soul (Nafs e Lawwama) and is specifically for believers and the Friends of Allah Ta’ala. The method for this is to turn yourself completely towards Allah Ta’ala; disassociate yourself from the world and its necessities; be serious and solemn; keep the soul away from all evils and purify it; oppose the desires of the soul and wage war on it. This war against the desires of the soul must be continuous as when the soul becomes accustomed to turning to Allah Ta’ala, it becomes obedient to and takes on the characteristics and qualities of the heart. Turning to Allah Ta’ala is an attribute and quality of the heart and that is why Allah Ta’ala has said, “… and came to Him with a pertinent heart.”

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The third stage is called “Rawba”, meaning to incline towards Allah Ta’ala and this stage is specifically for the Friends of Allah Ta’ala (Auliya Allah). This inclination comes from a deep desire to see the Beloved. When the soul is completely inclined towards Allah Ta’ala, it obtains the status of the perfect soul. Having the quality of being inclined towards Allah Ta’ala is one of the qualities of one who yearns longingly to meet the Lord. It is necessary to make it a habit to spend much time alone even though outwardly he may attend gatherings and meet with friends. He avoids the public at large, wages war on his soul to break all relations with the world and builds an attachment to the Lord.

The fourth stage is the fortune of the peaceful, contented soul (Nafs e Mut-ma-inna). This stage is for descendants of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, the Prophets ‘Alaihimus Salaam, and for the privileged Friends of Allah Ta’ala. Allah Ta’ala says,

“O you peaceful soul. Return to your Lord well pleased with Him, and He well pleased with you.” 1

This is a state that is gifted by Allah Ta’ala to the blessed souls of His Prophets ‘Alaihimus Salaam and the privileged Friends of Allah Ta’ala. It pulls the souls completely towards piety and fear of Allah Ta’ala. Their souls are always in obedience due to their love for the Lord, which then enables these prisoners of the Lord the chance to walk in His path. They remove all worldly love and desires from their heavenly souls through contemplating the Lord and obtain a permanent closeness and permanent vision of the beloved. Subhan Allah!

THOSE WHO REPENTED…

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“But those who repented and mended (themselves) and, hold fast by the rope of Allah and made their religion purely; for Allah, then

these are with the Muslims. And soon Allah will give a great reward to Muslims.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Good news is given to those who repent from hypocrisy, give up all the bad things that are found in it, and their visible and hidden work is based on Islamic law. They must also have faith in Allah Ta’ala, hold firmly to His Oneness and His religion, and to be completely sincere to Him; Allah Ta’ala has promised these people that he will reward them greatly.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! May we be safeguarded from sheltering any elements of hypocrisy in us. If they are present in us, we should repent today, correct ourselves, and Allah Ta’ala will reward us greatly. May Allah Ta’ala protect us all from hypocrisy and grant us the qualities of the pious ones, Aameen.

…SEIZE THEM

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“Then when the sacred months have passed, slay the associators wherever you find them and catch them, and confine them and sit in wait for them at every place; again if they repent and establish prayer and give the poor-due then leave their way. Verily Allah is

Forgiving, Merciful.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! This verse of the Qur’an displays the Wrath of Allah Ta’ala. We are ordered to detain and battle those people who have associated partners with Allah Ta’ala (Shirk) or committed infidelity (Kufr), and have thereby committed injustices against their souls by leaving the path of truth. Together with the Wrath of Allah Ta’ala, the great Mercy of Allah Ta’ala is also seen in this verse. The believers are told that even though they are ordered to wage war on the people who commit infidelity and polytheism, they should leave clear the way of those of them who sincerely repent for their polytheism and infidelity, establish Salaah and pay alms to the poor (Zakat). To leave their way means not to harm them in any way.

The command to leave alone those of them who previously associated with Allah Ta’ala but who have subsequently sincerely repented is because Allah Ta’ala, by His Compassion and Mercy, has forgiven their previous sins and transgressions. Having faith and repenting ensures the forgiveness of all previous sins and wrongdoings. Allah Ta’ala will reward them greatly for their repentance, for obeying Allah Ta’ala, worshipping him, and doing good deeds.

We receive a great lesson from above verse. Allah Ta’ala is so Merciful and Compassionate that even after committing a vast amount of sins, He does not only forgive the one who remembers Him and repents, but also grants this person a place amongst His beloved bondmen, as Allah Ta’ala has said,


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“Allah likes the constant repentance and likes cleansers.” 1

BY ALLAH!

It says in the Holy Qur’an,

“They swear by Allah that they said it not, and no doubt, necessarily they uttered the word of infidelity and became infidels after accepting Islam and they had desired that which they could

not get; and what they felt bad, only this that Allah and His Messenger has enriched them out of His grace; then if they repent,

it is good for them, and if they turn their faces then Allah will chastise them with a severe torment in the world and the

Hereafter and on the earth they shall have neither any supporter nor any helper.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Many important things are mentioned in this verse; firstly, the evil character and behaviour of those hypocrites who harboured hatred and animosity for Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam in their hearts is detailed. They would hate Rasool Allah Sallallaho

1 Surah Baqara Verse 222 Kanzul Iman 2 Surah Tauba Verse 74 Kanzul Iman

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‘Alaihi Wasallam in their hearts but in the presence of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam they would swear an oath that they were sincere. These ill-fated, misguided people went as far as to plan the murder of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. (Ma’azAllah)

When their evil plot was discovered and they were confronted, they began to swear oath that they had not planned any such thing. How could their plot remain hidden from the Lord who does not sleep nor slumber for even a second? Allah Ta’ala threatens and intimidates these people by telling them that ‘If they repent for all these actions they will benefit, but if they stay on this course and do not repent, they will have no friend or helper, and therefore they should turn towards Allah Ta’ala’.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We should always stay away from all these bad qualities and evil traits, and should always remain busy in repenting. A great Hadith of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam says that ‘as long as there are people who repent to Allah Ta’ala present in a community, the community will be saved from the punishment of Allah Ta’ala.’ May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to repent, Aameen.

HIS SLAVES REPENTANCE

Our Creator and Sustainer says in the Holy Qur’an,

“Are they not aware that only Allah accepts the repentance of His bondmen and takes the charities in His authoritative Hand

Himself, and that it is Allah Who is the Relenting. The Merciful.”1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Allah Ta’ala is reassuring those of His bondmen who repent, for it is indeed only Him who accepts their repentances and forgives them. When a person commits sins upon sins and continues to lead a life of self-gratification and indulgence, there comes a time


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when he is rejected even by the world. He becomes disgraced in all places, and then cannot see any sign of hope or optimism around him. No one is prepared to extend a helping hand to him or support him.

Even in this state, the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala calls out to him and says, ‘O My servant, do not be dejected, to accept your repentance is one of My great Qualities, therefore repent and give charity and I will grant you a place amongst My beloved bondmen.’ May Allah Ta’ala grant us the ability to seek forgiveness, may He accept our repentances, and may He include us amongst His beloved bondmen, Aameen.

PUNISHMENT… OR… REPENTANCE?

“And some other have been deferred to Allah's commandment. Whether He may torment them or may accept their repentance.

And Allah is Knowing Wise.” 1

The background and explanation of this verse rests in the actions of some of the Companions of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam during the Battle of Tabook. In spite of being in good health, some of the Companions of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam did not take part in the Battle of Tabook and stayed behind in Madinah. Upon the return of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam from the battle did not explain the reasons for their absence. This disheartened and disappointed Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam. In response to this, Allah Ta’ala states that he has deferred the decision as to what will be handed down to them; either they will be left in the state that they are in and will be punished, or He may guide them to ask for forgiveness and grant them blessings and that this authority is for Allah Ta’ala alone and no one else is allowed to interfere in it.


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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! This tells us that repenting and asking for forgiveness is also a great gift from Allah Ta’ala. If you seek forgiveness, be assured that Allah Ta’ala has blessed you with graces and blessings. It is a shame and a great disgrace for those people who continuously commit sins, but do not attempt to do any deed that gains the Pleasure of Allah Ta’ala. If, Allah Ta’ala forbid, they die in that state, then who will save them from the Wrath and Fury of Allah Ta’ala? Therefore, if Allah Ta’ala has blessed us with the ability to repent, we should do so immediately. May Allah Ta’ala protect us all from a life of sin and guide us to surpass each other in good deeds, Aameen.

GOOD…&…EVIL!

“And there are some others who acknowledge their sins and mixed up a good deed with another evil. It is near that Allah may accept

their repentance. No doubt Allah is Forgiving. Merciful.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! This above verse refers to the repentance of those people who sinned, then were embarrassed and ashamed, admitted their guilt and repented. Allah Ta’ala says that their good deeds became polluted with these sins, but soon He will forgive them because the person who goes into His court and admits his guilt and sins is never turned away empty handed. Therefore, we should admit to all our previous sins and shed tears of shame and embarrassment in the Court of Allah Ta’ala, it is His promise that, “No doubt Allah is Forgiving. Merciful.”

NINE QUALITIES OF A BELIEVER


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“Those who repent, those who worship, those who praise, those who fast, those who bow, those who prostrate, those who tell good and forbid evil and those who watch the limits of Allah.

And give you glad tidings to Muslims.” 1

This verse gives glad tidings to all the people mentioned in the verse, as they are very exalted in the Court of Allah Ta’ala. However, those who repent are mentioned before any others, showing the status of repentance and how beloved it is in the Sight of Allah Ta’ala. At this point, let us mention the four qualities of repentance that is accepted by Allah Ta’ala:

1. Once a person has asked for forgiveness, he stays away from transgressors, attaches himself to pious people, and partakes enthusiastically in gatherings of goodness.

2. He partakes in all good deeds, remains busy in the obedience of Allah Ta’ala, and performs all his actions sincerely and genuinely.

3. He should not worry in the slightest about those responsibilities that Allah Ta’ala has taken upon Himself by His Grace. Just as Allah Ta’ala has said that it is His responsibility to provide everyone with livelihood, therefore, he should not worry about livelihood and remain busy in obedience and worship.

4. Once he has repented, he should turn completely towards Allah Ta’ala, as the one who remains occupied in the remembrance of Allah Ta’ala does not find pleasure in


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anything else; just as Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam always used to remain grieved and sombre in the remembrance of Allah Ta’ala.

When the above four qualities are found in one who repents, he should know that the Kindness of Allah Ta’ala has accepted his repentance. It is therefore important for the public to look at such a person with love, not with suspicion, and plead to Allah Ta’ala to keep him firm and steadfast. You should also not embarrass him by reminding him about his past sins as Allah Ta’ala loves those who repent and grants them a great status. May Allah Ta’ala bless us all with the four qualities mentioned above and guide us all to make sincere repentance, Aameen.

OUTPOURING OF MERCY

“And to the three who were left behind, so much so that the earth being so vast became straight to them, and they became tired of their own lives, and they believed that there is no refuge from

Allah but with Him. Then, He accepted their repentance that they might remain repenting. Undoubtedly, it is Allah who is

Relenting, the Merciful.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! To understand this verse, the events surrounding the revelation must firstly be understood. The incidents surrounding its revelation are as follows;


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When Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and his Companions went to take part in the Battle of Tabook, the days were extremely hot and the Companions had very few animals to ride on; there was only one camel for every ten Companions. Food was in an even greater shortage; one date would be shared amongst a whole group of Companions. In these testing times, Hazrat Ka’ab, Hilal bin Umayya, and Marar bin Rabiy’a did not join the army and remained occupied in fulfilling their worldly affairs. When Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam returned, neither did they apologise, nor did they explain their absence which disappointed and upset Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam greatly.

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam ordered his Companions to stop greeting and talking to the three who did not partake in the battle, and to stop all relations with them. The Companions did as they were told and boycotted the three completely. They would not greet them nor would they reply to their greetings. The three were forced to spend their time inside their homes out of shame and sadness. Hazrat Ka’ab Radiallaho

Ta’ala ‘Anhu would go to the top of a mountain and would spend his days and nights crying and begging for the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala. Hazrat Ka’ab Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu spent fifty days in this state shedding tears and pleading for mercy.

Finally, after almost two months, the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala boiled over and the above verse was revealed to his Beloved Communicator of Unseen News Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. He said, ‘The three whose fate was put on hold are now convinced that there is no one who can forgive them except Allah Ta’ala, and that the Lord has accepted their repentance because He is the one who is the Most Forgiving, the Most Merciful.’

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We learn from this verse that Allah Ta’ala puts the person who does not obey the commands of Allah Ta’ala into worldly difficulties, so that he turns his life around and returns to Allah Ta’ala. The condition for acceptance is that he must repent sincerely with a true heart, and shed tears. May Allah Ta’ala keep us all firm and steadfast on the commands of Islam and save us from His Wrath, Aameen.

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ALLAH TA’ALA’S KINDNESS

“Do they not observe that they are being tried every year once or twice? Even then neither they repent nor accept admonition.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The above verse also refers to repentance and was revealed to shed light on those hypocrites who would be embroiled in some kind of difficulty each year that they would have to try and overcome. Despite being surrounded by the problems and being aware of the reasons for their problems, they would neither repent nor learn a lesson from it. We learn from this that difficulties and problems that arise are put in our path so that we can learn from them and thus reform ourselves.

When a small difficulty in this world causes us so much pain and anguish, how will we stand up to the difficulties of the hereafter? We should therefore repent, as the Door of Repentance is still open, and the Kindness of Allah Ta’ala is so vast that even if a slave sins one hundred times in a day and asks for forgiveness each time, the Merciful, Compassionate Lord will forgive him. After all these opportunities and chances, it is only the most unfortunate and ill-fated people who would not repent. May Allah Ta’ala keep us far away from such people, and guide us to learn from the lessons we are taught in the world so that we can prepare the right provisions for the hereafter, Aameen.

REPENTANCE…&…SUCCESS


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“….And repent to Allah, O Muslims all together, haply you may get prosperity.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Which person in this day and age does not want to reach the pinnacle of success? Everybody is looking for triumph, success and victory, but how is all of this attainable when our entire bodies are infected with sins? First of all, we must be regretful of our sins and then behold and observe the favours and graces Allah Ta’ala bestows on us.

There are numerous reported incidents in history where a person lives his live so deep in sins that he becomes rejected and deserted even by people living around him; at this point they realise the error of their ways. When they shed tears and repent in the Court of Allah Ta’ala, the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala rushes forward and embraces them.

Thinking they were pearls, the Mercy picked them up… The tears of modesty and shame that fell

The value of the tears that fall out of shame and repentance are worth far more than diamonds and pearls in the Court of Allah Ta’ala, and this is why Allah Ta’ala urges all His bondmen to repent time and time again, ‘Turn away from sins before the Punishment of Allah Ta’ala is sent upon you; once the punishment arrives, no one will be able to save you.’ May Allah Ta’ala grant us all a place under His Shade of Mercy, Aameen.

VICES…VIRTUES

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“But he who repents and believes and does good deeds, then Allah will change the vices of such persons with virtues. And Allah is


My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Subhan Allah! How Merciful is our Lord that if a person commits sins but then expresses his shame by shedding sincere tears in His Court, not only does the Merciful One forgive the sins, He also turns them into rewards, filling the individual’s book of deeds with brightness.

Look at the courts and the justice systems of the world today. When a defendant is brought before a court of justice and is found guilty as charged, if he begins to cry and apologises and promises never to do the same crime again, people would call him stupid and say to him that, “You should have understood the consequence before you committed the crime; there is nothing that can be done now, you have to serve your punishment.”

May I be sacrificed on the Mercy and Kindness of Allah Ta’ala that even if an offender has committed thousands of crimes, if he repents sincerely in His court, all the sins are wiped clean. Subhan Allah! We should therefore, continuously repent for the sins that we have committed and supplicate that Allah Ta’ala guides us to live in His obedience, forgive the sins that we have committed, and may He grant us the ability and guidance to repent before we die, Aameen.

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MEANING OF REPENTANCE (TAUBA)

Hujjatul Islam Hazrat Imam Ghazali ‘Alaihir Rahmah states that repentance is the name of three things:

1. Knowledge.

2. Circumstances.

3. Actions.

The first is the cause for the second and the second is the cause for the third. The relationship and order between the three is due to the system that is decreed by Allah Ta’ala in that the body and the soul are kept together and the details of the three are as follows:

Knowledge refers to when a person realises that the punishment and damage for sins is very severe. This is because many veils are created between the slave and the Lord as a result of the sins that have been committed. When the slave realises that committing sins leads to all the veils being created and his separation from the Lord, his heart will be very saddened. Furthermore, when he realises the circumstances and actions that have led to this separation, he will become ashamed about what he has done and this conscience and shame that is felt is called obedience.

When the heart is overwhelmed by this shame and grief it will begin to change. This changing (in the way the heart feels) is called making a firm intention, and this firm intention is related to all three tenses (of time), namely:

Present: to believe with his heart that he will not commit the same sin again.

Future: to firmly believe that it was the very same sin that caused his separation from the Lord and caused him to feel so

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dejected and lost, and that he will make sure that he never goes near that sin in the future.

Past: If something was in danger of dying or being destroyed in the past, the way to compensate for it is to become proficient in terms of knowledge. In other words, his faith and belief should become so strong and firm that there is no chance of doubt or suspicion.

After this, the light of faith takes over the heart and as a result of which, the fire of regret and repentance begins to burn in the heart causing it distress. The light of faith enables the mystic to know that he has become a beloved of the Lord.

Repentance means to turn towards Allah Ta’ala and is the beginning of the path to spirituality and mysticism. It is also the means by which a person’s worth and value is raised. This is the first step that mystics take as repentance is the first stage of victory and firmness for those who have been disobedient. For obedient ones, it is a means to become one of the favoured ones. For the Prophets ‘Alaihimus Salaam, especially our Father Hazrat Adam ‘Alaihis Salaam, it was the favoured path to Mercy.

Mankind committing a vast amount of sins is not a far-fetched supposition as they are human, and it is possible for humans to make mistakes. Hazrat Adam ‘Alaihis Salaam, on the basis of Wisdom from Allah Ta’ala, committed an oversight, and immediately turned to Allah Ta’ala. The children of Adam ‘Alaihis

Salaam are in greater need of turning to Allah Ta’ala. Irrespective of the wisdom inherent in the error committed by Hazrat Adam ‘Alaihis Salaam, he not only expressed deep sorrow and sadness but wept for a long time. This tells us that those of us who commit sins, and claim to be from the children of Hazrat Adam ‘Alaihis

Salaam, but do not knock on the door of repentance, are undutiful and good for nothing.

Point: Living in purity without sin is a quality of the Angels; being covered just in sins is a trait of Satan. Moving from sins towards goodness and purity is the quality of humans, which is why mankind has been given the ability to do both. One who only does goodness is called an Angel, and one who only commits sins is

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called Satan. The ones who make amends for sins by turning to Allah Ta’ala are called humans. To live in purity and goodness all the time and become associated with Angels is impossible, which is why we did not mention that. Mankind’s nature contains goodness and evil, and separating evil from goodness is possible in two ways: (1) Through regret (repentance) and (2) The fire of Hell. When the wickedness of Satan pollutes the beauty of humans, it can be separated in two ways. Repent or you will have to go to Hell! Now mankind has to decide which of the two fires (fire of repentance, fire of Hell) he has the capacity to withstand. It is apparent that he should choose repentance as that is easier, but repentance is only possible before the onset of death. After dying it is either Paradise or Hell. 1

Envoy of Islam, Hazrat Allama Sayyed Sa’aadat ‘Ali Qadri says, “Repentance means to turn towards Allah Ta’ala; to return to Allah Ta’ala; to be embarrassed by the life of disobedience, treachery, sin and evil; to express sorrow and regret; and to promise to stay away from sins in the future.” Allah Ta’ala is the Acceptor of repentance and loves for His slaves to seek repentance

‘And repent to Allah, O Muslims all together, haply you may get prosperity.’ 2

‘Allah loves the constant repentance…’ 3

Repentance is not just for sinners; rather it is for all believers. It is for the masses, the elite, the Friends of Allah Ta’ala and the Prophets ‘Alaihimus Salaam. Each one will receive the benefits of 1 Ihya ul Uloom 2 Surah Noor Verse 31 Kanzul Iman 3 Surah Baqara Verse 222 Kanzul Iman

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repentance based on their status. When we repent our sins are forgiven; when the pious repent they receive closeness to the Lord and when the Prophets ‘Alaihimus Salaam repent the sins of their followers are forgiven. In any case, Allah Ta’ala likes repentance, and rewards the one that repents based on his rank.

Even the Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam who is sinless and the one through whom all our repentances are accepted, even that of Hazrat Adam ‘Alaihis Salaam, is told, “…and keep on repenting.” Based on the rank and status of the Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, this order was given to him because the Lord loved the repentance of His Beloved Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam. Additionally, the repentance of the Master Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, will be the means by which the slaves of the Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam will be forgiven. Furthermore, the repenting of each slave will become a blessed Sunnah of the Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. The sinless Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam did not just obey this command of his Lord but obeyed it meticulously and regularly just as it is narrated by Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu, that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam said, “I seek forgiveness and repent in the Court of Allah Ta’ala more than one hundred times every day.” 1

The commentator of Sahih Muslim, Hazrat Allama Gulam Rasool Sa’eedi ‘Alaihir Rahmah narrates from Hazrat Mulla Ali Qari ‘Alaihimur Rahmah that repentance means to go from sin to obedience, from laziness to remembrance, and from absenteeism to being present. Allah Ta’ala “repenting” means that He covers the sins of His slaves in the world so that no one else knows about them and that the slave is not punished for them in the hereafter.

Allama Taibee stated that in Islamic law repentance means to realise that sins are evil, to stop committing them straight away, to regret the errors that were made, to make a firm intention not commit those sins in the future and to make amends and recompense for the sins that have been committed.

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Allama Noowi stated that if the sin committed relates to the right of a person, then it is a condition for the acceptance of the repentance, that the transgressor returns back whatever is owed to its rightful owner or have it forgiven by him.

Allama Ibn Hajar ‘Asqalaani ‘Alaihir Rahmah stated that if the sin committed relates to the rights of Allah Ta’ala, then instead of performing voluntary (Nafl) and communal (Fardh e Kafaaya) acts of worships, the transgressor should remain immersed in performing the compulsory worships that were missed. The reason for this is that by performing voluntary prayers a person cannot escape from his disobedience of missing the compulsory worships (prayers and fasts etc), he must therefore make up those compulsory acts of worship before reaping the rewards of performing the voluntary acts.

CONDITIONS FOR REPENTANCE BEING ACCEPTED

There are certain conditions that must be met for repentance to be accepted, namely:

The rising of the sun from the east - until the time that the sun rises in the west, the door of repentance will remain open, as is narrated by Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who repents before the sun rises in the west, his repentance will be accepted by Allah Ta’ala.” 1 Hazrat Allama Noowi ‘Alaihir Rahmah writes that the sun rising in the west is the watershed for the acceptance of repentance and that it is established by authentic Ahadith that the door of repentance is open and repentance will be accepted until that door closes. When the sun rises from the west this door will close and whosoever has not repented before this will not have their repentance accepted.

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Before the pangs of death start - because once they start repentance will not be accepted (and neither can a will made at this time be implemented). 1

EXCELLENCE OF REPENTANCE IN LIGHT OF AHADITH

COMPASSIONATE ON THE SLAVES

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrated that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Allah Ta’ala states that ‘I am as My servant imagines Me, and I am with him wherever he remembers Me.’ By Allah! He is more pleased when His servant repents than any of you would be if you lost your ride in the jungle and then found it. ‘The person who moves one hand span towards Me, I move one arms length towards him. The person who moves one arms length towards Me, I move four arms lengths towards him. The person who comes walking towards Me, I go running to Him.’” 2 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We see and understand from the above Hadith that Allah Ta’ala loves to forgive His bondmen. It is the great Mercy and Kindness of the Lord that sometimes He mentions closeness to Him, whilst at other times He mentions happiness, in the hope that the bondmen will take heed and repent. We should therefore repent quickly and obtain closeness to Him and attempt to earn His Pleasure. If He is pleased with us, He will shower us with untold mercies and graces. May Allah Ta’ala have mercy on us all and guide us all towards sincere repentance, Aameen.

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrated that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “When any one of you repents,

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it pleases Allah Ta’ala more than the pleasure you feel when you find a lost ride.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! A person becomes restless, uneasy and experiences great difficulties when he loses something. In the very same manner, when a person goes against the command of Allah Ta’ala and becomes closer to shaitaan, Allah Ta’ala is extremely disappointed with him. However, when that person realises that he has done wrong and repents, Allah Ta’ala is as pleased with him as we feel when we find something that was lost. Let us repent sincerely and make a firm intention not to sin in the future. May Allah Ta’ala grant us all a sincere repentance, Aameen.

A BELIEVERS REPENTANCE

Hazrat Harith bin Sowaid states on one occasion when Hazrat Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma was ill, “I went to see him he told me two Ahadith, one from himself and one from Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.

He said that he heard Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam say that, ‘Allah Ta’ala is more pleased on the repentance of His bondman than a person who travelling through a dangerous jungle with his ride on which his food and drink is goes to sleep, and who upon awakening discovers that his ride has gone; then he searches for his ride until he feels very thirsty and thinks to himself that he will go back to the place where he lost the ride and go back to sleep and eventually die; he places his head on the ground in anticipation of death, but awakes after a short while to find his ride there beside him, with all his food, drink, and belongings on it. When a person repents to Allah Ta’ala, He is happier than this person who has found his ride after thinking that it was lost.’” 2

Hazrat Abu Ayyub Ansari Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrated that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “If you did not have any

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sins that needed forgiving, Allah Ta’ala would create such an Ummah that would have sins that needed forgiveness.” 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Humans should not think of themselves as sinless, but should realise that we are creatures of sin. If we could not sin, on whom would Allah Ta’ala shower His Kindness and Forgiveness? Therefore, we should immediately repent for the sins that we have knowingly and unknowingly committed, and Allah Ta’ala will forgive us through the alms of His pious bondmen.


“Undoubtedly, Allah forgives all sins, verily He is the Forgiving, the Merciful.” 2

This is the very verse that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, cherished without bounds and in respect of which he remarked as follows, “Even if someone were to offer to give me the world and all its treasures in exchange for this verse; I would not exchange it.”

The events surrounding the revelation of this verse are narrated by Hazrat Ibn ‘Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma, who reports that some polytheists (Mushriks) came to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam and said they had murdered many innocent people, and had committed adultery many times. These people then said to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, “We like the things that you say and the invitation that you give very much, but we have committed so many sins that we see no chance of hope or forgiveness. Is there any compensation that we can pay for our sins?”

In other words, what they were saying was that ‘If there is a chance for our sins to be forgiven, then we will accept Islam. If we accept Islam and still have to pay for our sins by going into the

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fire of Hell, then why should we leave the religion of our forefathers?’ The above verse was revealed at that time, and until the Day of Judgement, all those who are mired in sins and committing injustices to their souls are given the glad tidings of forgiveness. 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! When polytheists are given the glad tidings of forgiveness after they accept Islam, then we, as slaves of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, are indeed more entitled to those glad tidings. Irrespective of how many sins we may have committed, we should not become disheartened or discouraged, because to be disheartened about the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala is also infidelity, and being disheartened and dejected is not the way of believers.

Hazrat Yaqub ‘Alaihis Salaam told his sons the same thing when he urged them to track down and find Hazrat Yusuf ‘Alaihis Salaam. He said to them,

“…and despair not of Allah's Mercy.” 2

He said it does not suit you to despair at the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala; you are believers and the son of a Prophet,

“No doubt, none despair of the mercy of Allah but a people disbelieving.” 3

A believers’ job is to continue repenting, and those who repent have the glad tidings narrated by Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu that are given by Sayyedina Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, who said that, “The person who repents

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for his sins become so pure and clean, it is as though he never sinned.” 1

This is why Islamic law states that it is not permissible to taunt the person who has publicly repented for his sins. In other words, it is not allowed to call an alcoholic or a thief by such a name once he has repented.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We can see how Merciful the Lord is, how He forgives the sins of His slaves when they repent, and how He covers them with the blanket of forgiveness. Let us repent sincerely with a true heart and make a firm intention that we will not commit sins in the future. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to stay away from sins, Aameen.

A BLACK DOT ON THE HEART

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrated that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “When a believer commits a sin, a black dot appears on his heart. When he repents, his heart is cleaned. If he continuously commits sins, the dot gets bigger and bigger and this is the rust Allah Ta’ala mentions when He says that there is rust on their hearts because of their sins.” 2

Just as rust eats away at metal, makes it useless and takes away all its firmness and strength, similarly, sins take away the strength of a believer’s heart. He then begins to spend his life shamelessly, senselessly and disgracefully. May Allah Ta’ala protect us, but if a person even in this state does not become disheartened, and receives divine guidance to repent he indeed is very fortunate, as the Lord is extremely forgiving. It is not difficult for Him to remove the darkness of sins in the heart and replace it with light. Allah Ta’ala has said,

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“But he who repents and believes and does good deeds, then Allah will change the vices of such persons with virtues. And Allah is


My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! People do everything in order to obtain peace and contentment. Sins destroy the heart because when a person commits a sin, a black dot is placed on the heart, which cannot be removed by any doctor or surgeon in the world. Only repenting can cure and remove this dot, because when a person repents and seeks forgiveness Allah Ta’ala replaces this black dot with light. In actual fact, sincere repentance ensures that Allah Ta’ala replaces the sins with rewards. May Allah Ta’ala glance at us with Mercy, change our sins into rewards and guide us to stay away from all sins, Aameen.

IN THE COURT OF ALLAH TA’ALA

Hazrat Abu Dhar Ghaffari Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrated that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “A person will be brought before Allah Ta’ala on the Day of Judgement. It will be said, ‘Bring his small sins’, therefore his small sins will be placed before him. His large sins will remain hidden. He will be asked ‘Did you do all these things?’ He will admit to all of them and will not deny any of them and will start to panic about his large sins.

The order will be given ‘Give him reward for all these sins!’ He will say, ‘I have many more sins that I do not see here (so that they can also be changed to rewards).’” The narrator reports that at this point, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam smiled broadly and his blessed teeth were visible. It is in the explanation of this Hadith that on the Day of Judgement, the sins of those who repent will be changed to rewards just like this.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! On the Day of Judgement, Allah Ta’ala will show great Mercy and

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Kindness when a person admits to his sins; the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala will not be able to tolerate the fact that just the person’s sins should be forgiven. Rather, Allah Ta’ala, according to His Status, will show Benevolence and will change the sins into rewards. The slave will be ecstatic at the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala and will request to have his large sins presented as well (in the hope that these too are converted into rewards). It is on this joy and real hope that the bondman has that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam smiled. Why would he not smile? After all the Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam‘s happiness lies in the fact that his slaves are forgiven. Subhan Allah! May Allah Ta’ala, through the alms of the Mercy to the Worlds Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, replace all our sins with rewards and grant us the glad tidings of forgiveness, Aameen.

WHAT IS SINCERE REPENTANCE?

Hazrat Abu Dhar Ghaffari Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu asked Hazrat Ubai Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu, “What is sincere repentance?” He replied, “I asked Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam the same question and he said ‘Committing a sin, then regretting it, repenting to Allah Ta’ala, and not committing that same sin again.’” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We should ponder on our repentances and see if they are indeed sincere. To ensure that they are, not only do we have to avoid those same sins, rather we must also avoid even thinking about them or going near them in the future. This will ensure that we are obeying the commands of our Lord correctly.

Hazrat Hasan Basri Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih stated that a sincere repentance is that a person regrets his previous sins and makes a firm pledge not to return to them in the future.

Hazrat Jali Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih says that sincere repentance is when a person repents with his tongue, regrets in his heart, and protects his body from sins in the future. ‘O my Lord, grant us a sincere repentance, a true repentance, and a firm repentance,

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through the alms of Your Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen.’

THREE THINGS

Hazrat Imam Noowi Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states that the following three things must be found in a person to ensure a sincere repentance:

1. The person gives up the sin.

2. The person is ashamed and regrets the sin that were committed.

3. The person makes a firm intention that he will not sin in the future.

May Allah Ta’ala guide us to keep all three things always present in our lives, Aameen.

SIX CONDITIONS OF REPENTANCE

Hazrat Sayyedina ‘Ali Karramallahu Ta’ala Wajhahul Kareem heard a Bedouin say, “O Allah, I seek repentance and forgiveness from you.” Hazrat ‘Ali Karramallahu Ta’ala Wajhahul Kareem said, “Asking for forgiveness like that with the tongue is the way of liars.” The Bedouin asked, “How do I make true repentance?” Hazrat ‘Ali Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu replied, “There are six conditions for a true repentance:

1. Regretting previous sins.

2. Making up the compulsory worships that have been missed.

3. Making a firm intention that the same sin will not be repeated.

4. Rejecting injustice and returning any items that were stolen.

5. Rights of people must be corrected, meaning to make the wronged person happy.

6. Putting the soul on the path of obedience to Allah Ta’ala and not letting it off that path for even a single moment, as though

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it is being punished for the mistake. Make the soul taste the beauty of obedience, just as it enjoyed the sins.” 1

We should keep the above-mentioned six things in mind when repenting and Insha Allah, the Lord will certainly forgive us with His Mercy and Grace. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to make a sincere repentance, Aameen.

REGRETTING SINS

Hazrat Abdullah bin Salaam Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that when a person repents to Allah Ta’ala and regrets his sins sincerely, all his sins are forgiven before the feeling of regret has subsided. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! It is necessary to feel remorse and regret whilst repenting. In fact, to repent means to regret. We should all therefore, regret the mistakes that we have made and Insha Allah the Lord will show us Mercy. Furthermore as narrated above even before the feeling of remorse ends Allah Ta’ala forgives the sins of those who are regretful for their sins. May Allah Ta’ala, through His grace and the alms of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam guide us all to make a sincere repentance, Aameen.

SINS…&…PARADISE

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “A sinner will earn Paradise because of his sins.” He was asked, “How is that possible?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam replied, “When he regrets those sins, not only does Allah Ta’ala forgives those sins, but Allah Ta’ala orders him to enter Paradise.” 3

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! How great is the Kindness and Mercy of the Lord that He grants Paradise to the sinners as well, merely by sincerely repenting for their sins? When the Lord is willing to be this

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Merciful and Kind, the slaves should surely sincerely repent and obtain Paradise. It is true that

I am full of Grace but there is no beggar… Who can we show the path to? There is no traveller on this road

May Allah Ta’ala guide us all towards repentance, Aameen.

WAITING FOR DEATH

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said that, “Allah Ta’ala is more pleased on the repentance of His servant than a person travelling in a dangerous jungle with his ride on which is his food and drink, who goes to sleep, and when he wakes up, his ride is gone. He searches for his ride until he feels very thirsty. Feeling completely helpless and desperate, he thinks to himself that he will go back to the place where he lost the ride and go to sleep, and eventually die. He places his head on the ground in anticipation of death, but he wakes up after a short while. When he wakes up, his ride is right there beside him, with all his food, drink, and belongings on it. When a person repents to Allah Ta’ala, He is happier than this person who has found his ride after thinking that it was lost.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! If a slave sins and disobeys Allah Ta’ala despite Allah Ta’ala having looked after and fulfilled his lawful needs, this is undoubtedly going to disappoint Allah Ta’ala. However, the slave should realise that he has been at fault; turn away from his sins and repent to Allah Ta’ala. In turn Allah Ta’ala will be more pleased with that person than someone would be who finds something that was thought to be lost.

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has said that the Divine Hand of Mercy of Allah Ta’ala remains stretched out until the morning for those who sin during the night; and remains stretched out until night time for those who sin during the day. This will continue until the sun rises from the west, and the Door of


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Repentance will close. (This means Allah Ta’ala will accept the repentances of His slaves until the Day of Judgement.) 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Allah Ta’ala tries to draw his servant’s attention towards repentance in many different ways. Allah Ta’ala desires that the slaves should be forgiven by any means possible; therefore we should knock on the Door of Repentance before death and obtain forgiveness for our sins to save ourselves from embarrassment and disgrace on the Day of Judgement. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to repent, Aameen.

MULTITUDE OF SINS

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “If you have committed a multitude of sins equivalent to the heavens, then feel shame and remorse and repent to Allah Ta’ala, He will forgive your sins.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! In spite of the fact that a person may have committed countless sins, if he repents sincerely, Allah Ta’ala will forgive him through His Grace and Kindness. Let us repent sincerely and pray that Allah Ta’ala accepts our repentance, Aameen.

Hazrat Sa’eed bin Musayyab Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that the verse “…then no doubt. He is Forgiving to those who repent” was revealed in relation to the person who would sin, then repent, sin again, and repent again. 3

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! To sin is in the nature of man and to repent is also in his nature. Therefore (May Allah Ta’ala protect us), whenever we commit a sin, we should repent sincerely in the Court of Allah Ta’ala. Insha Allah, the Lord will forgive us with His Kindness. May Allah Ta’ala forgive us all, Aameen.

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REPENTANCE OF AN ETHIOPIAN

An Ethiopian came to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and said, “Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, I commit sins, will my repentance be accepted?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam replied, “Yes.”

The man went away, returned a short time later and asked, “When I commit sins, does Allah Ta’ala see me?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam replied, “Yes.” As soon as he heard that, the Ethiopian let out a loud scream and his soul left his body. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Our Lord and Cherisher sees both our apparent and hidden words and deeds and is also aware of the secrets in our hearts. If this thought becomes established in our hearts, we would be saved from numerous sins.

IBLEES GIVEN TIME

It is reported that when Allah Ta’ala rejected Iblees (Satan), he asked for some time until the Day of Judgement. Allah Ta’ala gave him time and Satan said, “I swear by Your Dignity and Majesty that as long as mankind is present, I will incite them to sin.” Allah Ta’ala said, “I swear by My Dignity and Majesty, I will cover them with the covering of repentance until their final breath.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Subhan Allah! What Grace and Kindness it is of the Merciful Lord that he does not want to see His slaves shamed and disgraced. This is why he told Satan that, “I will cover them with the covering of repentance until their final breath,”- meaning that He will continue to forgive sins so that, on the Day of Judgement, Satan is disgraced and the slaves are given respect. May Allah Ta’ala make us all punctual in seeking repentance, Aameen.

4000 YEARS BEFORE

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Hazrat Sayyedina ‘Ali Karramallahu Ta’ala Wajhahul Kareem narrated that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “4000 years before mankind was created, it was written on all four sides of the Throne, ‘I will forgive all those who repent, have faith, and do good deeds.’” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Subhan Allah! Will we still not repent? Return to the Lord and repent sincerely, the Forgiving Lord will definitely shower us with Kindness and Mercy and forgive our sins, Insha Allah. May Allah Ta’ala accept our repentance, Aameen.

TEARS FROM THE EYES

Hazrat Ibn Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu was asked by a person, “I commit sins but then feel very shameful and remorseful. Is there forgiveness for me?” Hazrat Ibn Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu looked away from the person and when he looked at him again he saw that the person had tears in his eyes. Hazrat Ibn Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu replied, “There are eight Doors of Paradise that open and close, except for the Door of Repentance which never closes. Keep doing good deeds and do not despair at the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The Supreme Merciful Lord has kept the Door of Repentance permanently open. However, none of us know when the Angel of Death will come to us, therefore we should repent immediately so that Allah Ta’ala makes us deserving of Paradise.

A PIECE OF THE EARTH

Hazrat Ibn ‘Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrated that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “When a person repents, Allah Ta’ala accepts the person’s repentance. The Angels are ordered to forget the sin that he committed; the various parts of his body forget the sin; the piece of earth where the sin was committed and the part of the heaven under which the sin was committed also


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forgets the sin; when the person comes on the Day of Judgement, there will be no one to give evidence against him.” 1

REPENTANCE NOT ACCEPTED

Hazrat Ibn ‘Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that many people will come on the Day of Judgement thinking that they have been forgiven but their repentance will not have been accepted because they will not have strengthened the door of repentance with shame and regret, will not have made a firm intention to stay away from sins after repenting, will not have stopped abusing others with their strength after repenting, and will have justified committing small sins and not asked for forgiveness for them. It was easy for them to delude themselves to think that Allah Ta’ala would be pleased with them but forgetting your own sins is very dangerous. It is necessary for everyone to keep checking their soul and to not forget their sins.

O wrongdoer who is counting his sins, Do not forget your sins, keep remembering them

Turn to Allah Ta’ala before you die Stop committing sins and admit your mistakes 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We should never forget our sins as our entire bodies are drowned in them. In fact, we should remember our sins all the time and keep repenting, weeping and begging for mercy, in the hope and belief that Allah Ta’ala will like our repentance, forgive us and bless us. A sensible person is one who is shameful of his sins, and weeps and cries when he remembers them. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to remember our sins and be sad and regret them greatly, Aameen.

HAZRAT ‘UMAR CRIED Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu

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Faqih Abul Laith Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih reports that on one occasion “Hazrat ‘Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu came crying to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, who asked, ‘O ‘Umar! Why are you crying?’ Hazrat ‘Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu replied, ‘The weeping and crying of a young man outside has torn me up.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam requested that the young man should be brought in.

The young man was brought before Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam, who asked him, ‘Young man, why are you crying?’ He replied, ‘O Master Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, I am crying at the excessiveness of my sins and the displeasure to Allah Ta’ala that I have caused.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam asked, ‘Have you committed polytheism?’ He answered, ‘No.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam asked, ‘Have you killed someone unjustly?’ There was no reply and so Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam asked him again. He answered that he had not. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘Even if your sins are equivalent (in weight) to that of the seven earths, the seven skies and mountains, Allah Ta’ala will forgive you.’

The young man said, ‘Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, my sin is even grater than that.’ The Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam asked, ‘Is your sin greater or is the Throne of Allah Ta’ala greater?’ He replied, ‘My sin is greater.’ The Holy Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam asked, ‘Is your sin greater or is Allah Ta’ala greater?’ He replied, ‘Allah Ta’ala is the Greatest.’ Our Beloved Master Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘Only the Great Lord forgives great sins.’

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam then asked the young man to tell him about the sin that he had committed. He said, ‘Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, I am ashamed to mention it in front of you.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘Do not worry, tell me.’ He said, ‘Yaa Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, for seven years I have been stealing burial shrouds. A young Ansari girl died and I went to steal her burial shroud. I dug up her grave, stole her shroud and began to leave. Suddenly Satan overcame me and I turned back and performed an indecency with the dead girl’s body. After moving away a few feet, having committed the indecency, the girl stood up and said, ‘O young

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man, may Allah Ta’ala destroy you; did you not fear the Lord who ensures that each weak person is given their right by tyrants? You have made me different to the other dead people and have made me unclean in the Court of Allah Ta’ala.’

I left the graveyard crying and repenting to Allah Ta’ala and spent forty days in that state. After forty days, I looked up to the heavens and said ‘O Lord of Muhammad and Ibrahim (‘Alaihimus Salaam), if you have forgiven my sin then notify Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, otherwise send down flames from the sky and burn me, but save me from the fire of Hell.’’

At that very moment, Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis Salaam came and said, ‘Your Lord sends you greetings and asks if you have created all the creations?’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, ‘No I did not, my Lord created me and all things.’ Hazrat Jibreel ‘Alaihis Salaam said, ‘Allah Ta’ala states that He has forgiven the sins of the young man.’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam called the young man and gave him the good news of his repentance being accepted.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Subhan Allah! How Merciful is Our Lord! Let us repent in His Court right now and please Him, because if He is pleased, then what will we lack? Undoubtedly, Allah Ta’ala likes the repentance of His bondman. May He guide us all to repent, Aameen.

REFLECTION

It is reported that a young man obeyed Allah Ta’ala and worshipped Him for twenty years, then for the next twenty years he committed sins. One day, he saw his reflection and saw the signs of old age in his beard. He became very saddened and pleaded in the Court of Allah Ta’ala, “O my Lord, I worshipped you for twenty years and then spent twenty years sinning, and if I return to You, will You accept me?”

He heard a voice from the unseen that said. “You loved Me and in return I made you My beloved; you left Me so in return

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I left you; you committed sins for which I gave you some time and now if you return to Me, I will bless you with acceptance.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! You can see from the above incident how Allah Ta’ala forgives His bondmen. We should repent and beg Him for forgiveness even if we have a multitude of sins; He is the Forgiving, The Merciful One and will definitely forgive us. May Allah Ta’ala grant us all the blessings of forgiveness through the alms of His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.

EIGHT DOORS OF PARADISE

A person came to Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala

‘Anhu and said, “I have committed a sin.” Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu said, “It is compulsory for you to repent.” As soon as he had said that, he turned his face away from the person. When Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala

‘Anhu looked at him a few moments later, the person had tears coming out of his eyes. Upon seeing this, Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu said, “There are eight Doors of Paradise out of which only the Door of Repentance is open constantly. There is an Angel appointed at the Door of Repentance and that door will not be closed until the Day of Judgement.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Allah Ta’ala knows that man is weak and he has a soul, which orders him to do evil. Due to this weakness, man obeys the commands of his soul and his desires and commits sins. When he realises his mistake, he repents and Allah Ta’ala, through His Mercy, forgives him. Therefore you should never be despondent or feel helpless. The most important thing is to stay away from sins, but if you disobey Allah Ta’ala by mistake, repent immediately and become obedient. Insha Allah, He will forgive

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the sins that you have committed. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to repent, Aameen.

Some people have stated that Satan was rejected and cursed because he did not think repenting was compulsory and nor did he admit to his fault. Rather, he displayed arrogance and became a disbeliever. However, Hazrat Adam ‘Alaihis Salaam was granted the good fortune that he admitted his mistake, repented to Allah Ta’ala, regretted it and did not become disheartened. He was so successful in his aim that Allah Ta’ala announced the acceptance of his repentance. 1

Hazrat Imam Ghazali Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states that to repent immediately is compulsory as Allah Ta’ala states that those who rush to commit sins, but then rush to repent, have their sins wiped away. Just as impurities are cleaned before they have a chance to dry, repenting immediately washes the impurities of sins away. It is a statement of Allah Ta’ala that ‘Undoubtedly good deeds wipe away sins.’ The darkness of sins cannot withstand the light of good deeds; sins are darkness, its light is good deeds and that good deed is repentance.’ 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! An abundance of good deeds will ensure that Allah Ta’ala forgives us Insha Allah. May Allah Ta’ala guide us to gather an abundance of good deeds, Aameen.

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has said, “Allah Ta’ala does not like any voice more than the voice of repentance. When it calls Him, He says, ‘I am present, ask for whatever you want. Your status in My court is the same as that of certain Angels of Mine. I am on your left, on your right, above you, and closer to you than your own heartbeat. O Angels, be witnesses that I have forgiven him.’” 3

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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! How merciful is our Merciful Lord? Let us repent sincerely and turn to our Creator and Master. He will undoubtedly forgive us. May Allah Ta’ala look at us all with Mercy and Forgiveness, Aameen.




EEXXCCEELLLLEENNCCEE OOFF TTHHEE MMOOSSQQUUEE

IMPORTANCE OF THE MOSQUE IN LIGHT OF THE QUR’AN


Prayer (Salaah) is one of the most important acts of worship there is. Previous Nations (Ummahs) were only allowed to perform this worship in a specific place; they were not allowed to offer it anywhere else. However, the Ummah of Sayyedina Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has been granted many distinctions above the other Nations and amongst them is that Allah Ta’ala has made the entire earth a Mosque; thus, we are able to perform Salaam wherever we may be.

Islam is a religion of nature and human nature desires society and people around it. It is for this reason that Islam has always placed congregations at the forefront. Islam praises mutual relations and living together in a community, and has expressed a dislike for

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separation and living alone. This is the reason why the Mosque was ordained for prayers where Muslims would gather five times a day, and not only present themselves in the Court of Allah Ta’ala and worship Him together in union, but also become aware of each others’ happiness and sadness, and find joint solutions to problems and issues. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has made quite clear the excellences and benefits of the Mosque in his blessed Ahadith.

THE GREATEST CRUELTY

Allah Ta’ala states,

“Who is more unjust than he who prevents in the mosques of Allah being mentioned the name of Allah, and strives to ruin

them, it was not proper for them to enter the mosques but with fear. For them, there is disgrace in the world and for them, there is

great torment in the hereafter.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The people who abandon the Mosques are called unjust and cruel in this verse. This verse was actually revealed in relation to those Christians who had desecrated Masjid e Aqsa, burnt the Torah, and sacrificed unclean animals in there. Allah Ta’ala expresses his Wrath and Fury and says ‘Can there be a greater tyrant than the one who disrespects the House of Allah Ta’ala like this?’


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There is also a severe warning in this verse for those not only do not go to the Mosque themselves, but also prevent others from going to the Mosque. This is why Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam has said, “When you see that the doors of the pubs and clubs are open and the doors of the Mosques are closed, know that the Day of Judgement is near.”

We should therefore never stop anyone from performing prayers, reciting Qur’an, or organising any religious gathering in the Mosque. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to respect and honour the Mosques, Aameen.

TESTIMONY TO FAITH

“…And do not touch the women when you remain in the mosques, for devotion. These are the limits of Allah, do not approach them.

Allah thus describes His Signs to the people, so that they may become pious.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The above verse addresses those people who sit in the Mosque with the intention of secluding themselves for worship (I’tikaaf). They are commanded by Allah Ta’ala not to have conjugal relations with their wives, nor commit any other acts of lust or lechery whilst in the state of I’tikaaf. We ascertain from this; that those worshipping in seclusion in the Mosque are blessed with closeness to Allah Ta’ala. This is why men are forbidden from secluding themselves (I’tikaaf) in their homes because just by merely sitting quietly in the Mosque, Allah Ta’ala rewards the individual. In fact, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has said


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that, “If you see a person regularly attend the Mosque, testify to his faith.”

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! There are great blessings and benefits in going to the Mosque, but alas! There are today, countless Muslims who spend day and night in places of sin; it has also become a daily habit of theirs’ to stand on street corners for hours at a time, laughing and joking; but if you call them to the Mosque for a single day, they will make all kinds of excuses and reasons for not being able to attend. May Allah Ta’ala save us all from these evil practices and guide us to frequent the Mosque regularly, Aameen.

ADORNMENT FOR THE MOSQUE

“O children of Adam! Take your adornment whenever you go to mosque and eat and drink and do not cross the limit.

Undoubtedly, the persons crossing the limit are not liked by Him.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The above verse teaches us the etiquettes of going to the Mosque. We are told to wear nice clothes when going to the Mosques, or when standing up for prayer. This shows us that to meet Allah Ta’ala (Pray Salaah) in beautiful, attractive, and clean clothing is liked and preferred by Allah Ta’ala.

It is reported about Imam e ‘Azam Abu Hanifa Radiallaho

Ta’ala ‘Anhu that he had a specific pair of clothes (shirt, Imama Shareef, shawl, pants) made for praying in. The clothes were made at a cost of 1500 dirhams at that time! He would wear them when

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performing prayers and would say that, “It is better to meet Allah Ta’ala whilst wearing beautiful clothes than when meeting people.”

Nowadays, some brainless people roll up their sleeves and the bottom of their pants as soon as they enter into a Mosque, almost as though they are there to fight with someone. Allah Ta’ala hates people coming to the Mosque in this state. When people themselves dislike those entering in such a state. How is Allah Ta’ala going to like it? Let us supplicate that Allah Ta’ala gives us the guidance to respect and honour the Mosque, and that He keeps us far away from those who violate the blessed House of Allah Ta’ala, Aameen.

DEEDS RUINED

“It is not for the associators that they should inhabit the mosque of Allah, bearing witnesses of infidelity against themselves. Their

entire works are destroyed, and they shall abide in the Fire.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! This verse provides a great warning to those who see themselves as the keepers, protectors, or guardians of the Mosques. We can find the reasoning behind this on recollecting an incident from the battle of Badr. When the infidels were captured and made prisoners after the battle of Badr, the Companions teased them and pointed out their faults and shortcomings. The infidels in response replied, “You are only mentioning our faults, but we have many good qualities too. We built Masjid e Haram and are its guardians and protectors, and we give water to the people who


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come for pilgrimage.” Allah Ta’ala, refuting this boast of theirs states that, ‘You do not have a right to say this, as your hearts are empty due to your infidelity and polytheism. Therefore, the things that you think are good deeds and earning you rewards will all be left here and will go to waste.’

The Wahhabis of today also make this same claim that, ‘We are the custodians of Haram Shareef, we are the Imams of Haram Shareef’ etc. With these kinds of whisperings, they misguide our innocent, simple-minded Sunni Muslims. Therefore, O Muslims! We should therefore never think that building or expanding Haram Shareef, or leading the prayers there are a sign of true faith or of being a true Muslim. In fact, the infidels and polytheists of previous times also did all of this. Of course, those who have true faith and the flame of love for Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam burning brightly in their hearts and are then able to serve Haram Shareef, are indeed very fortunate and blessed. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to populate the Mosques, Aameen.

BELIEVERS AND BUILDING MOSQUES

“They only inhabit the mosques of Allah who believe in Allah and the Last Day and establish prayer and pay the poor-due (Zakat)

and fear none but Allah, therefore it is near that these people may be among the guided ones.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The question of who should build and inhabit the Mosques is answered in the above verse of the Holy Qur’an. Accordingly only those with faith in their hearts, who perform prayers and pay what is due to the poor, should build and inhabit the Mosques.


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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We have been made aware of the many excellences of building a Mosque. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “All of a person’s deeds are finished after he dies, save for three things for which he continues to receive reward, even after he dies.” One of these three things is building and establishing a Mosque.

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam also stated, “The person who builds or helps to build a Mosque for the Pleasure of Allah Ta’ala, for every inch of the Mosque, Allah Ta’ala builds for him four million cities in Paradise. Each city will have 100,000 palaces, with 100,000 beds in each palace. On each bed will be seated a fair maiden of Paradise. One of the houses will have 40,000 tablecloths laid down, with 40,000 bowls on each tablecloth, and each bowl will contain a different food. Everything about the person will be strengthened and increased, like his appetite and his stamina. His strength and stamina will be such that he will be able to eat all the food and will be able to have relations with all the fair maidens.” 1

DEMOLISH THE MOSQUE

Allah Ta’ala states in the Holy Qur’an,

“Those who have built a mosque in order to injure and because of infidelity and to cause dissension among Muslims and as an

ambush for him who is already against Allah and His messenger from before. And they will surely swear that we desired only good. And Allah bears witness that they are certainly liars.” 2

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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! This verse refers to Masjid e Zaraar. When Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam performed prayer in Masjid e Quba and stayed there for a few days, its respect and eminence began to increase. The hypocrites did not like this and decided to build another Mosque in which they would pray. They hurriedly constructed a Mosque, and also began performing their prayers in it. However, they had done all this without the permission of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and all that they would do in this Mosque would be to plan against and insult Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam and the Muslims (Ma’az Allah). Therefore, when Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam

received the order (from Allah Ta’ala) and the above verse was revealed, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam sent Hazrat Wahshi Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu and a group of Companions with orders to demolish that Mosque. The group of Companions went and set fire to that Mosque, razing it the ground. Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam also gave orders that filth and dirt should be dumped on that ground in the future. This above verse proves that a Mosque that is built to insult our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam should be demolished as it is truly not a Mosque. It is necessary for all of us rightly guided Sunni Muslims

to stay far away from the Mosques of those people who retain filthy beliefs such as believing that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam is just like us and that he has died and mingled with the dust (Ma’az Allah). May Allah Ta’ala protect all Muslims from these disgraceful beliefs and may Allah Ta’ala grant victory and domination to the Mosques of those with the right beliefs, Aameen.

ALLAH TA’ALA’S MOSQUE, REMEMBERING OTHERS


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“And that the mosques are only for Allah, so worship none with Allah.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Allah Ta’ala is in the above verse explaining the true status and prestige of a Mosque by stating that the Mosques are only for Allah Ta’ala and that therefore none other than He should be worshipped in any Mosque. It is for this reason why non-religious work such as inviting Christians and Jews into the Mosques for political purposes and to please them, as some people are doing nowadays, is forbidden. Such people are great sinners and transgressors and are those who are ruining the Mosques.

It is in relation to this verse that Allama Ismail Haqqi Rehmatullahe

Ta’ala ‘Alaihi states that Allah Ta’ala stating that “Mosques are only for Allah” does not mean that if someone gives a Mosque a particular name such as Masjid e Nabvi, Masjid e Quba, Masjid e Aqsa etc he is committing ‘shirk’ or doing something that is ‘haram’. This is because the reality is that all Mosques are Allah Ta’ala’s and that they are given names to identify one from another.

Similarly, if a Sunni Muslim says ‘This is the goat of Ghauth e Azam’ or ‘The goat of Ghareeb Nawaz’, they should not be called ‘Mushriks’ for the reality is that the goats will be sacrificed in the Name of Allah Ta’ala, the name is only given to identify the goats as being for the ‘Niyaz’ of the particular Friend of Allah Ta’ala.

Nevertheless, if we start doing things other than worshipping Allah Ta’ala in the Mosques, then Allah Ta’ala’s Wrath and Fury will rain down on us. Therefore, everything other than worship should be done outside the Mosques. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to worship in the Mosques to earn His Pleasure, Aameen.

IMPORTANCE OF THE MOSQUE IN LIGHT OF AHADITH

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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Allah Ta’ala, who is free from all faults and imperfections, has stated that His slaves should worship Him in the Mosque. His favour upon favour on His slaves is that, in order to elevate the status of His slaves even more, He states that these Mosques are His Houses so that a slave, by entering the House of Allah Ta’ala feels that he is meeting with his Lord.

This is why Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said that the best places on the face of the earth are Mosques. Some Ahadith are therefore presented below to explain the virtues and excellences of Mosques.

THE BEST PLACE

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The best places are the Mosques and the worst places are the market places.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has called Mosques the best places, and described the market places as the worst places. The reason for this is that our reason for being created has been clearly explained in the Qur’an as follows:

“And I have created the Jinn and the men only for this that they may worship Me.” 2

The places that help to further this aim are more desirable in the sight of Allah Ta’ala then those places where sins are committed - these are disliked and are evil in the sight of Allah Ta’ala. Today, we have to evaluate where we spend more of our time, do we do so in the desirable places or do we do so in the disliked places?

O respectable youngsters of Islam! Peace and contentment have been placed in the Mosques, not in the market places. This does

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not mean that we should not go to the markets for business or to buy things, or meet people and talk to them there. What it means is that we should spend as little time as possible there and spend the rest of our valuable time in the Mosque or at home with our families. There was a time when Muslims would be busy in their work, but as soon as they heard the call to prayer, they would drop everything and rush to the House of Allah Ta’ala. These fortunate people are mentioned in the Holy Qur’an, “…they leave their business and hasten towards the remembrance of Allah.”

These people are such that work and business does not deter them from the remembrance and worship of Allah Ta’ala. May Allah Ta’ala look at us all with Mercy and give us the guidance to populate the Mosques, Aameen.

HOUSE IN PARADISE

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who builds a Mosque for Allah Ta’ala on the earth, Allah Ta’ala will build a house in Paradise for him.” 1

Hazrat Abu Qar Saafi Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Build Mosques and keep them clean because the one who builds a House for Allah Ta’ala, He (Allah Ta’ala) will build for him a house in Paradise.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! To build Mosques, to clean them, sweep up in them, wash their walls etc, are all worthy of great rewards. When a slave cleans the House of Allah Ta’ala for His pleasure and the comfort of His slaves, then Allah Ta’ala rewards the slave according to His Great Status. May Allah Ta’ala guide us to respect the Mosques and to build Mosques for His pleasure, Aameen.

REWARD FOR ATTENDING THE MOSQUE

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Mosques are the

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Houses of Allah Ta’ala on the earth, and Allah Ta’ala has taken it upon Himself to grant respect and honour to those who attend the Mosques to present themselves in His Court.” 1


Wasallam’s beloved devotees! No one has any rights over Allah Ta’ala, but He has rights over each and every one of us. He is the Greatest and Most Respected of all. Whether one is a king or a beggar, all are dependant on Allah Ta’ala. Regardless of this, He has taken it upon His infinite Grace that He will grant honour and respect to those who come to His House on the earth.

Is the reason for our disgrace not the fact that we stay far away from His House on the earth? O those seeking respect! We should have faith on His promise and go His House, Insha Allah we will certainly get respect and honour. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen

WARNING FOR NOT ATTENDING THE MOSQUE

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “If you perform your prayers at home like these degenerates do, you would be giving up a practice (Sunnah) of your Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and if you made a habit of giving up the ‘Sunnah e Muakkidaa’, you would go astray.” 2

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates, “When the call to prayer is said, protect (perform) the five prayers as these prayers are the paths to guidance. Undoubtedly, Allah Ta’ala has appointed paths for His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam. We always understood that negligence and carelessness towards the prayers was clear hypocrisy. We have seen, with our own eyes, a time when people would need the support of two others to help them walk, yet they would still be brought to the Mosque and would stand in line for prayer; and nowadays you have turned your homes into Mosques? Listen! If you continue to

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perform your prayers at home and discard the Mosque, then you will be discarding the practice (Sunnah) of your Prophet Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam, and if you do that, you will be classed as ungrateful and unappreciative.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The above Hadith has clearly stated what our position is today. O slaves of Allah Ta’ala! During the time of Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam, the hypocrites would perform their prayers at home instead of going to the Mosque.

Our state today is that is that Muslims either do not perform prayers at all, or if do so, they perform them at home. May Allah Ta’ala have Mercy on all of us and grant us the guidance to perform our prayers in the Mosque, through the alms of His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen.

GLAD TIDINGS OF PERFECT LIGHT

Hazrat Buraidah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who walks to the Mosques regularly in darkness, give them the glad tidings that they will have perfect light on the Day of Judgement.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The prayers of Maghrib, ‘Isha and Fajr are prayed in darkness. The person who does not use the darkness as an excuse to stay at home; but rather, goes to the Mosque regularly, is looked at by our Lord with His Mercy and is, through His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, given the good news of perfect light on the Day of Judgement. Undoubtedly, the terror and fear that will be felt on the Day of Judgement is more frightening than anything anyone will ever experience. However, those who frequent the Mosques are given glad tidings of perfect light on that terrifying day. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to act upon this Hadith, Aameen.

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GARDENS OF PARADISE

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “When you walk by the gardens of Paradise, graze in them (eat its fruit).”

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu states that he asked, “What are the gardens of Paradise?” Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “They are the Mosques.” Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu asked, “What does it mean to graze?”

Our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Keep reciting Subhan Allahi Wal Hamdu Lillaahi Walaa Ilaaha Illal Laahu Wallahu Akbar.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! What places have been called the gardens of Paradise by Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam? He said it was the Mosques, and one who frequents them and recites “Subhan Allahi Wal Hamdu Lillaahi Walaa Ilaaha Illal Laahu Wallahu Akbar” whilst in the Mosques, will enjoy the various fruits and beauties of Paradise after he passes away from this world.

May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to fill the Mosques and recite the above-mentioned words when we attend the Mosques, Aameen.

REASON FOR BUILDING MOSQUES

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Mosques are only for the remembrance of Allah Ta’ala and for performing prayers in.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! This Hadith makes clear that we should refrain from all business dealings or worldly dealings in the Mosque. Remembrance of Allah Ta’ala’ covers a vast range of deeds; if a believer is talking about Islam or the Prophet of Islam Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam, this is also classified as remembrance of Allah Ta’ala. Nevertheless, worldly talk should be avoided in the Mosque as this is against the etiquettes of the Mosque, and is also

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a very sinful deed. Therefore, there should only be prayers, recitation of the Qur’an, blessings and salutation (Durood o Salaam), Scholars’ speeches, and religious talk in the Mosque. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to respect the Mosques, Aameen.

Hazrat Abu Zarrah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Leader of the Faithful, Sayyedina Abu Bakr Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu said, “Mosques have been made for the remembrance of Allah Ta’ala.”

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “All talk and chat in the Mosque is useless except for the recitation of the Holy Qur’an, remembrance of Allah Ta’ala, asking good questions and answering them.” 1

FORBIDDEN IN THE MOSQUE

Hazrat Saalim bin ‘Abdullah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Leader of the Faithful, Hazrat ‘Umar Faruq Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu separated a large area in one corner of Masjid e Nabvi, named it ‘Bateeha’ and said, “Those who wish to chat, want to recite poetry, or want to talk loudly should go and do so in that corner.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The reason that the space was allocated in Masjid e Nabvi Shareef was that in those days, people’s worldly issues and problems were debated and resolved in the Mosque; delegations would arrive and important matters and issues were discussed and conducted in the Mosque. The number of Muslims was increasing day by day, and new issues were being raised every day. Therefore, a specific place was made so that those who were worshipping would not be disturbed, and those who had things to discuss could go there in order to preserve the sanctity of the Mosque. May Allah Ta’ala guide us to respect the sanctity of the Mosques, Aameen.

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Hazrat Jaabir bin ‘Abdullah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “I have been granted five things that were not granted to any Prophet before me:

1. I have been helped in such a way that fear of me and my army is put into the hearts of the infidels when we are still one month’s distance away.

2. The whole earth has been purified for my followers and I to perform prayer on. Therefore, wherever my followers are when it is time for prayer, they should pray there.

3. The spoils of war (booty) have been made lawful for me.

4. Previous Prophets came to a specific community, but I have been sent as a Prophet to all people.

5. I have been granted the station of intercession.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! There is no one like our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Subhan Allah! Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam mentioned five favours, one of which is the fact that the whole earth has been made a Mosque for us. A follower of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam should therefore perform his prayers, no matter where he is in the world. If there is no Mosque nearby when it is time for prayers, we can pray on the side of the road or highway and our prayer will count. Therefore O Muslims! We should not beat about the bush and stop making excuses when it is time for prayer. It is truly a blessing and grace through Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam that the whole earth has been made a place where we can offer our prayers. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to perform our prayers punctually, Aameen.

PRAYERS IN MASJID E NABVI

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “One prayer in this Mosque of mine is better than 1000 prayers in any other Mosque, except for Masjid e Haram.”

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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Look at the authority of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, in that he has increased many a fold the reward for praying in his Mosque relative to that received for praying in any other Mosque. Allah Ta’ala, through His Grace, gave His Beloved Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam the power and authority to give as much reward as he pleased. Subhan Allah! May Allah Ta’ala grant us the opportunity to offer our prayers in Masjid e Nabvi, Masjid e Haram, and Masjid e Aqsa, Aameen.

PRAYERS IN MASJID E AQSA

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “When Hazrat Sulaiman ‘Alaihis Salaam completed the construction of Masjid e Aqsa, he asked for three things from Allah Ta’ala. The first was the ability to make decisions and judgements according to Allah Ta’ala’s will. The second was to receive a kingdom like no one else would receive in the future. The third was that if a person was to go to that Mosque, solely with the intention of performing prayer in it, he would become so pure of sins that it would be as though he was just born that day. Two of the things were granted immediately, and I trust and believe that the third was also granted.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The two things that were granted immediately were apparent for all to see, namely the kingdom and the ability to make judgements and decisions. Our Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, who is the Communicator of Unseen news, expresses trust and belief that the third has also been granted by Allah Ta’ala. May Allah Ta’ala grant us all the opportunity to perform prayers in Masjid e Aqsa, Aameen.

BRIGHTENING THE MOSQUE

Hazrat Isma’il bin Ziyad Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that the Leader of the Faithful, Hazrat Ali Karramallahu Ta’ala Wajhahul Kareem

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on walking past Mosques during the month of Ramadan and seeing them lightened by glowing lamps made the following supplication, “O Allah! Brighten the grave of the Commander of the Faithful, Sayyedina ‘Umar Faruq e ‘Azam Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu, just as he has brightened our Mosques.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! From the above narration, we can see how fond the Companions Ridwanullahe ‘Alaihim Ajma’een were of illuminating the Mosques. The Companions Ridwanullahe ‘Alaihim Ajma’een desired the mosques to be enlightened because this meant people could worship in peace, comfort, and presence of mind and heart; and would along with performing prayers recite the Holy Qur’an and would not be fearful or in a rush to leave because of the darkness. Therefore, if Allah Ta’ala has given us wealth and guidance, we should arrange for our Mosques to be bright and well lit. Insha Allah, we will receive a part in the supplication (Du’a) of Hazrat Ali Karramallahu Ta’ala Wajhahul Kareem. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all through the alms of His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen.

Hazrat Anas bin Malik Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu states, “The person who lights a lamp in the Mosque, for as long as the Mosque is brightened by its flame, the Angels that bear the Throne of Allah Ta’ala, as well as all the other Angels, supplicate for his forgiveness.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! If a person arranges a light bulb, chandelier, or fluorescent tube light in this day and age, he would also be deserving of the supplication of the Angels that is mentioned above. The supplication is not made by any ordinary creation; the innocent Angels of Allah Ta’ala make it. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to partake in brightening the Mosques, Aameen.

THE STATUS OF MOSQUES

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Hazrat Anas bin Malik Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “A person’s prayer (Salaah) that is performed in his house is worth one prayer; the prayer that is performed in a Mosque where the Friday prayer is performed is worth 500 prayers; the prayer performed in Masjid e Aqsa is worth 50,000 prayers; the prayer in my Mosque (Masjid e Nabvi) is worth 50,000 prayers; and his prayer performed in Masjid e Haram is worth 100,000 prayers.”

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! It is better for people to perform their prayers in the local Mosque, as opposed to in the Jaamia (Friday Prayers) Mosque. This was the way of the Companions, Tabi’een, and our pious predecessors Ridwanullahe ‘Alaihim Ajma’een who would all perform the five daily prayers at their local Mosque; they would not go to the Friday prayer Mosque for their daily prayers.

This shows us that we should perform the daily prayers in our local Mosque and the reward for 500 prayers is specific to the Friday prayer (Jum’a). The reward for 500 prayers applies to those people whose local neighbourhood Mosque is the Friday prayer Mosque.

It is stated in “Al Shabaah Wan Nazaair” that the extra benefits apply to those who live in the neighbourhood of the Friday prayer Mosque, if the Imam is a rightly guided Sunni Imam.

CLEANLINESS OF THE MOSQUE

The famous Companion, Hazrat Anas bin Malik Radiallaho Ta’ala

‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “All the good deeds of my Ummah to the extent that even the deed of someone removing dirt and dust from the Mosque was presented to me. The bad deeds of my Ummah were also presented to me, and I did not see a bigger sin than someone learning a chapter or verse of the Qur’an and then forgetting it.”


Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Even our cleaning, sweeping, and dusting of the Mosque are presented before Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam. We should ponder upon the fact that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has included it amongst the good deeds

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that are worthy of reward. We should therefore, on seeing litter or any sort of dirt in the Mosque, remove it ourselves and not think this is exclusively the job of the custodian(s) of the Mosque. We should clean the House of Allah Ta’ala to earn His pleasure. Insha Allah, we will become deserving of a great reward. In the same manner, we should keep reciting and practising as much of the Holy Qur’an that we have memorised, as according to Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, forgetting it is a grave sin. May Allah Ta’ala guide us to do good deeds, Aameen.

RESPECT OF THE MOSQUE

Hazrat Abu Qatadah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “When anyone from amongst you comes to the Mosque, he should perform two rak’ats (Tahiyyatul Masjid) before sitting down.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! From the above Hadith, it is evident that we should perform two rak’ats Tahiyyatul Masjid immediately on entering the Mosque and then sit down - provided of course it is not at a forbidden time for prayer. There are many benefits and excellences of this prayer, and Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and his Companions Ridwanullahe ‘Alaihim Ajma’een themselves would always perform this prayer. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to perform the ‘Tahiyyatul Masjid’ prayer, Aameen.

REWARD FOR GOING TO THE MOSQUE

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Whoever goes to the Mosque at the beginning or end of the day, Allah Ta’ala will prepare a feast for him in Paradise in the morning or the night (whenever he went to the Mosque).” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Usually, both these times are times for resting. The

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person who sacrifices his sleep and house and goes to the House of Allah Ta’ala, then Allah Ta’ala rewards that person according to His supreme Rank and Status – by this it is meant that Allah Ta’ala Himself will be the host and prepare a grand feast for the person in Paradise. Subhan Allah! What will be the magnificence of feast that our Lord arranges! May Allah Ta’ala guide us to fill the Mosques punctually and especially at the times mentioned above, Aameen.

MORE REWARDS

Hazrat Anas bin Malik Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu says that, “Every part of the earth on which prayer is performed or Allah Ta’ala is remembered on expresses pride (in delight) over the surrounding land. And it feels pleasure and happiness all the way up to the seven heavens, and all the way down to the core of the Earth. When a person performs prayer on a piece of earth, the earth is proud of that person.” 1

DEED TO TAKE YOU INTO PARADISE

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “To sweep the Mosque, keep it clean, remove dirt and dust from it, and to fill the mosque with beautiful scent by burning fragrances, especially on Fridays are all deeds are deeds that will take you into Paradise.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We should all attempt to do the deeds mentioned in the above Hadith. Especially on Fridays the Mosque should be fragranced with scent (‘Itr) and the people attending the Mosque should all wear Itr too. We should also try and make time to occasionally sweep and dust the Mosque. The promise of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam is true; Insha Allah we will become deserving of Paradise. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

IMPORTANCE OF CLEANLINESS

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Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has also stated that to sweep and clean the Mosque is the dowry for a beautiful maiden of Paradise. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Keeping the Mosque clean was very much liked by Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and many different glad tidings are given to those who help to keep the Mosque clean so that arrangements would always be made to ensure that the Mosque remains clean and dirt free. Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that during the time of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Masjid e Nabvi was made of unbaked bricks. The branches and leaves of date trees were used for the roof and the trunks of the date trees were the pillars. Hazrat Sayyedina Abu Bakr Siddique Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu did not make any changes to the Mosque at all; Hazrat Sayyedina ‘Umar Faruq e ‘Azam Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu merely reinforced the walls with unbaked bricks, and left the roof and pillars as they were; in other words, it was the same as before. Then during his caliphate, Hazrat Sayyedina ‘Uthman Ghani Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu, made significant enhancements to Masjid e Nabvi. The old walls were replaced with walls made of permanent painted bricks that were re-enforced with cement; the pillars were replaced with permanent stone pillars; and the roof was made of branches. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We learn from the above narration that it is permissible on the basis of the needs of the time to improve or change the Mosque, because the blessed Rightly Guided Caliphs Ridwanullahe

‘Alaihim Ajma’een themselves did this. It is reported in one narration that if a person removes

anything from the Mosque that may cause trouble to another person, Allah Ta’ala will build a house for him in Paradise. 3

REWARD FOR BUILDING A MOSQUE

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Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person that builds a Mosque for the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala, even if it’s size is that of a bird’s nest, Allah Ta’ala will build for him a house in Paradise.” 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We should supplicate to Allah Ta’ala that He gives us the guidance and wealth so that we can build even a small Mosque, enabling His slaves to worship Him in there; and to obtain the sweet taste of closeness to Him. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

LOVED BY ALLAH TA’ALA Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Those of you who love the Mosques, Allah Ta’ala loves you.” 2 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! If we want to be beloved in the Court of Allah Ta’ala, we should start loving the Mosques immediately. Allah Ta’ala will bless us with closeness to Him and will love us. May Allah Ta’ala, through the alms of His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, guide us to this, Aameen.

SEEKING FORGIVENESS

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “For as long as any of you is on the prayer mat, the Angels seek and supplicate for your forgiveness. They say ‘O Allah! Bless him with peace, O Allah! Have mercy on him, O Allah! Forgive him.’ This continues until you speak to someone.”

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Subhan Allah! What a great blessing it is to sit on the prayer mat. If we enter the Mosque with the intention of seclusion (I’tikaaf) and remain there with ablution (wudhu), Allah Ta’ala rewards us for every second that we sit; even if we are not performing prayers or engaged in any other acts of worship.

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Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The following words of Allah Ta’ala are present in certain previous revelations that, ‘On the earth, the Mosques are My Houses, and the one who builds them or takes part in building them is My pilgrim. Good news is for the slave of Mine who purifies himself in his home and comes to My House to see Me. It is therefore My obligation to grant the visitor respect and honour.” 1 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We are told in the above Hadith that the Mosques are the places to meet with Allah Ta’ala. When a person leaves his home with the intention of seeing Allah Ta’ala, He obliges Himself to grant the person respect and honour.

Furthermore, Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s Hadith, “Salaah is ascension for the believers” tells us that a believer communicates with his Lord whilst in prayer. Those with vision have sometimes even been blessed with seeing the beauty of the Lord. May Allah Ta’ala place that quality in our eyes too, Aameen.

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who performs ablution well at home, then comes to the Mosque, is a pilgrim of Allah Ta’ala; the One whom he is going to visit is obligated to respect and honour the pilgrim.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! If in this world a host does not turn the guest away but instead gives him great respect and honour, then how would it be possible that a slave who goes to his Lord’s House would not be respected and honoured? If only we would realise that respect is not found in the market places, but found in the Houses of Allah Ta’ala; and that respect is for Allah Ta’ala, His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, and for believers. Allah Ta’ala gives respect and honour to those whom He desires. Therefore, if we desire respect, we should keep frequenting the Houses of Allah Ta’ala and meeting with Him. May Allah Ta’ala grant us success in both worlds, Aameen.

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EXCELLENCE OF GOING TO THE MOSQUE

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has said that, “If you see a person regularly attend the Mosque, testify to his faith.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Let us make a firm intention that from this day onwards we will not be lazy in going to the Mosque; that we will become regulars at the Mosque ourselves, and make our children, friends, and acquaintances regulars at the Mosque as well. May Allah Ta’ala shower His Grace and Blessings upon all of us, Aameen.

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Prayer performed in the Mosque with the congregation is 25 times better than performing it alone at home or in the market place. When a person performs ablution well at home and leaves for the Mosque, with each step he takes his status is raised and his sins are forgiven. When he performs prayer, angels continuously send blessings upon him and as long as he is on his prayer mat, he is considered in prayer; and whilst he is waiting for the congregational prayer to start, he is also in prayer.” 2

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, "The person who performs ablution well, then goes to the Mosque for compulsory prayers will be forgiven.” 3

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! What a great reward is given for attending the House of Allah Ta’ala and partaking in the congregational prayers; the Lord grants the good news of forgiveness for those who go to His House for the compulsory prayers. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to perform our compulsory prayers in the Mosque, Aameen.

TEN REWARDS FOR EACH STEP

1 Makashifatul Quloob 2 Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim 3 Narrated by Hazrat ‘Uthmaan bin ‘Affan Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu in Nisaai

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It is reported in one narration that ten rewards are written for each step that is taken towards the Mosque, and from the time a person leaves his home, until he returns, it is written that he is performing prayer.

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! To leave home with ablution and to sit and wait in the Mosque for the prayer to start, are both great ways to earn a multitude of rewards. Undoubtedly, these rewards will be very useful on the Day of Judgement. Therefore, we should make some small sacrifices and try to accumulate a great quantity of rewards.

Hazrat Jaabir Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu states that some land was available close to Masjid e Nabvi and the Bani Salma wanted to move closer to the Mosque. This news reached Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam who said, “I have heard that you want to move closer to the Mosque?” They replied that indeed it was their intention to do so. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “O Bani Salma, stay in your homes, your footsteps are counted.” He repeated this a second time and the Bani Salma stated that after that, they did not want to move anymore. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We realise that the more steps we take towards the Mosque, the more rewards we will earn, and that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam also prefers that we walk to the Mosque. The intentions of the Companions were excellent but the desire and wish of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam was even better. Therefore, we should give priority to the preference of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam and always attempt to walk to the Mosque. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

REWARDS ON EACH STEP

Hazrat Ibn ‘Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma states that the homes of the Helpers (Ansaar) were far away from the Mosque and when they wanted to move closer to the Mosque. The following verse was revealed,

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“We are noting down what they have sent forward and what signs (of walking) they have left behind…” 1

Subhan Allah! My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Allah Ta’ala looks at the footsteps of those who walk towards the Mosque; how fortunate are those people whose footsteps Allah Ta’ala Himself sees. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to walk towards the Mosques, Islam, knowledge, and good deeds, Aameen.

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, "The greatest reward for performing prayer is for the one who walked from the furthest distance away.” 2

Hazrat Ubai bin Ka’ab Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma states that despite a Helper’s (Ansari) home being very far away he would not miss any prayers. When told he should buy a ride (camel or horse) so that he could ride on it when it was dark or too hot, he replied, “I desire that the footsteps that I take to come to the Mosque and go back home with are written in my book of deeds.” Upon hearing this Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, "It has all been written and Allah Ta’ala has given it to you.” 3 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Look at how much hunger the blessed Companions Ridwanullahe ‘Alaihim Ajma’een had for rewards: they would sacrifice their nights and would withstand enormous difficulties in order to collect rewards. Alas! Our situation today is evident for all to see. If only we would take a few steps to the local Mosque and walk in the footsteps of the blessed Companions Ridwanullahe ‘Alaihim

Ajma’een. Let us supplicate that Allah Ta’ala, through the alms of

His Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, guides us to walk in

1 Narrated by Ibn Majah 2 Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim 3 Narrated by Muslim etc

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the footsteps of those who were closest to Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen.

THE BEST METHOD

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, "To perform complete ablution when it is inconvenient, to walk to the Mosque, and to wait for the next prayer after completing one prayer, washes away sins completely.”1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We should perform ablution at home and get to the Mosques before the congregation time and wait for the congregation in the Mosque. Not only are we rewarded for waiting for the congregation and the prayer, our sins are washed away at the same time. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all and grant us all love for the Mosques, Aameen.

IN ALLAH TA’ALA’S PROTECTION

Our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, "Three kinds of people are in Allah Ta’ala protection, if they are alive he answers their needs, if they die, he enters them into Paradise.

The person who enters his home and greets the people in the home is in Allah Ta’ala’s Protection.

The person who goes to the Mosque is in Allah Ta’ala’s Protection.

The person who goes out in the path of Allah Ta’ala is in His Protection.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We should become punctual in the three items mentioned above and obtain the Protection and Security of Allah Ta’ala. We should remember that Allah Ta’ala’s responsibility is better than the responsibility undertaken by all others. Very fortunate are those people who have the enthusiasm to obtain His Protection. Let us

1 Bazaar & Abu Ya’laa 2 Abu Dawood

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supplicate that Allah Ta’ala takes us all into His Protection, Aameen.

70,000 ANGELS

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, "The person who leaves home to go for prayers and recites ‘Allahumma Inni As-aluka Bi Haqqis Saa Ileena ‘Alaika Wa Bi Haqqi Mam Shaaya Haadhaa Fa Inni Lam Akhruj Ashiraw Walaa Bitraw Walaa Riyaa-aw Walaa Sum’ataw Wa Kharajtu Ilqaa-a Sakhtika Wab Tigaa-a Maradaa Tika Fa-as Aluka An Tu’eedhanee Minan Naari Wa-an Tagfira Lee Dhunoobee Innahu Laa Yagfirudh Dhunooba Illa Anta’, Allah Ta’ala turns His attention towards him, and 70,000 Angels ask for forgiveness for him.” 1 Translation: O Allah! I am asking you through the alms (sadqa) of your petitioners and through my walking; I have not set out with pride, nor uselessly, nor for show, nor for fame. I have set out to obtain freedom from Your Wrath and to earn Your Pleasure. Therefore, I am asking You to grant me freedom from Hell and forgive my sins. Undoubtedly, You are the Forgiver of sins.

SUPPLICATION (DU’A) FOR ENTERING & LEAVING THE MOSQUE

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, "When one enters the Mosque, he should recite ‘Allahummaf Tahli Abwaaba Rahmatik’ Translation: O Allah! Open Your doors of mercy for me. When one leaves the Mosque, he should recite, ‘Allahumma Inni As Aluka Min Fadlik’ Translation: O Allah! I seek Your Grace from You.” 2

IN THE SHADE OF ALLAH TA’ALA

The Mercy to the Worlds, Pride of Humanity, Beloved of Allah Ta’ala, Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, "There are seven kinds of

1 Ibn Majah Narrated by Hazrat Abu Sa’eed Khudri Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu 2 Muslim Narrated by Hazrat Abu Sa’eed Khudri Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu

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people whom Allah Ta’ala will shade on the day when there is no shade available except His shade:

1. A fair and just leader.

2. Those whose youthful years were spent in the worship of Allah Ta’ala.

3. Those whose hearts are attached to the Mosque.

4. Those who made friends solely for Allah Ta’ala, remained firm and left each other for Allah Ta’ala.

5. Those who are invited by a beautiful woman, but they say, ‘I fear Allah Ta’ala.’

6. Those who gave some charity, but kept it so secret that their left hand did not know what their right hand had given.

7. Those who remembered Allah Ta’ala in isolation and shed tears.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Amongst these seven fortunate kinds of people that are mentioned above, one of those is he who is attached to and loves the Mosque. Therefore, we should turn our hearts towards the Mosques and after performing one prayer, make the intention to return for the next, and to try and ensure that all the other qualities that have been mentioned in the previous few pages are also instilled in us. Insha Allah, on the terrifying Day of Judgement, Allah Ta’ala will grant us all shade under His Blessed Throne. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to be punctual in the seven qualities mentioned above, Aameen.

MOSQUES IN THE HOME

The Mother of Believers, Hazrat ‘Aisha Siddiqua Radiallaho Ta’ala

‘Anha reports that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam ordered a specific place in the home to be designated for performing prayers, and also ordered that it should be kept clean and pure. 2

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My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! It is a Sunnah to designate a specific place in the home for performing prayers; it should be kept pure and clean, and should be scented with fragrances etc. If ladies want to perform seclusion (I’tikaaf), they should do so in this specific “Mosque” that is in the home.

From the above words of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam, it is evident that for voluntary prayers (Sunnah, Nawafil), and for women to perform their prayers, a specific place should be designated in the home, which should be kept pure and clean at all times. This is in order to obtain the blessings of that specific place, and so that the prayers that leave there are able to obtain the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala. If Allah Ta’ala has blessed any of us with a large home, then we should definitely assign a specific place for prayer and act upon the orders of Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam. Even if we do not have a large home, we should still assign a specific place for praying and, when it is time for prayers, we should pray in that designated place. The designated place can be used for other things too at other times if the house is small. May Allah Ta’ala enable us to act upon the words of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen.

WARRIOR FOR THE SAKE OF ALLAH TA’ALA

The Intercessor on the Day of Judgement Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who goes to the Mosque to remember Allah Ta’ala or to teach others about it is a warrior for the sake of Allah Ta’ala.” 1

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam also said, “To go to the Mosque morning and night is a form of struggle (Jihad) for the sake of Allah Ta’ala.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Struggling in the path of and for the sake of Allah Ta’ala is a great act. A warrior is willing to sacrifice his home, family,

1 Ihya ul ‘Uloom 2 Tibraani Narrated by Hazrat Abi Amamah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu

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business, and even his life by stepping into the battlefield for the sake of Allah Ta’ala. Being surrounded by blood thirsty enemies and placing your life in the hands of the Creator of the worlds makes a person worthy of being called a warrior for the sake of Allah Ta’ala.

However, the Truthful Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam of the True Lord says that going to the Mosque morning and night is included in this struggle in the path of Allah Ta’ala. Therefore, we should make it our habit to go to the Mosques morning and night so that we can be deserving of the rewards for struggling in the path of Allah Ta’ala. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

GOING TO THE MOSQUE IN DARKNESS

Imam Nakh’i ‘Alaihir Rahmah states that the pious predecessors said, “Paradise is compulsory for the people who go to the Mosque in the darkness of the night.” 1

…WILL TESTIFY

Hazrat Ibn Abbas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma has said that, “The earth cries for 40 days on the death of one who performs prayers regularly.”

Hazrat ‘Ataaul Kharaasaani Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu has said that, “When a person prostrates on any piece of the earth, that piece of earth will testify to his deeds on the Day of Judgement, and when he dies, that piece of earth cries.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The earth is saddened by the absence of the person who prostrated on it and the peace and contentment that his action gave it, and thus it weeps and cries. We should attempt to leave signs of prostration on every part of the earth. These signs will prove to be a means by which the Pleasure of Allah Ta’ala is obtained. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.


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HOW WILL THE HEART TURN?

A pious person has stated that performing the voluntary “Tahiyyatul Masjid” prayer creates sincerity and attachment to worship. Therefore, the heart of the person who makes it his habit to perform it will always be turned towards worship. 1

WILL OBTAIN REWARDS

Hazrat Hasan Basri Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih states that the person who frequents the Mosque regularly, Allah Ta’ala definitely rewards him with one of the following seven rewards:

He finds a brother who helps him to get to know Allah Ta’ala better.

The Mercy of Allah Ta’ala descends upon him.

Wonderful knowledge becomes available to him.

He finds the words that show him the right path.

Allah Ta’ala makes him give up a bad habit.

He gives up sins because of fear of Allah Ta’ala.

He gives up sins because of modesty and shame. 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The above narration shows us that we should go to the Mosque regularly in order to become deserving of the rewards mentioned. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all, Aameen.

ETIQUETTES OF THE MOSQUE

LOOKING FOR LOST THINGS

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “If you hear of someone looking for something they have lost in the Mosque, you should say, ‘May

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Allah Ta’ala not give you your possession back as Mosques are not built for looking for lost possessions in.’ 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The above Hadith relates to the respect and etiquettes of the Mosque. Things that may distract you or occupy your mind should be left outside the Mosque in a safe place, in order for you to be able to concentrate fully in worshipping Allah Ta’ala. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to obey and follow the rules and etiquettes of the Mosque, Aameen.

HOW ABOUT BUSINESS TRANSACTIONS?

Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “When you see anyone conducting business in the Mosque say, ‘May Allah Ta’ala not give you any profit from your business.’” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! One of the signs of the Day of Judgement is that people will conduct and talk about business transactions in the House of Allah Ta’ala It has nowadays become so common that people do not even consider it improper or against the etiquettes of the Mosque. For Allah Ta’ala’s sake! We should bear in mind the respect of the House of Allah Ta’ala and avoid talking about or conducting business in His House. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to obey and follow the rules and etiquettes of the Mosque, Aameen.

EATING ONIONS & GARLIC…?

Hazrat Abu Sa’eed Khudri Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The one who has eaten raw onion or raw garlic should not come near us in the Mosque.” 3

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! This is because eating raw onions or raw garlic makes

1 Jaami ul Ahadith Page 506 2 Fatawa e Razvia Part 3 Page 593 3 Fatawa e Razvia Part 6 Page 381

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the breath smell and Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam did not like the smell of that at all. Therefore, we should be careful and avoid onions, garlic, cigarettes, tobacco, and all other things that cause the breath to smell before entering the Mosque. We should clean out the mouth thoroughly before entering the House of Allah Ta’ala.

Hazrat Jaabir bin ‘Abdullah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The person who has eaten raw onions, garlic, or leek should not come to our Mosque because the things that cause discomfort to humans also cause discomfort to the Angels.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The above Hadith makes it clear that bad breath also causes the Angels discomfort, thus it is evident that it would also cause discomfort to the other people who have come for prayers to the Mosque, and would cause them to be distracted in their worship. We should therefore always be careful and avoid this. May Allah Ta’ala look at us all with Mercy and guide us all to obey and follow the rules and etiquettes of the Mosque, Aameen.

RAW MEAT

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “No one should pass through the Mosque with raw meat.” 2

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Let us supplicate that Allah Ta’ala looks at us all with Mercy and guides us all to obey and follow the rules and etiquettes of the Mosque, Aameen.

TALKING ABOUT WORLDLY THINGS?

Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Towards the end of

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time, there will be some people who will talk about worldly things in the Mosque. Allah Ta’ala has no need for such people.” 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Whether we are worshipping or meditating, if we talk about worldly things in the Mosque, Allah Ta’ala has no need for our worship or our meditation. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to refrain from talking about worldly things in the Mosque, Aameen.

Hazrat Waathla bin Asq’a Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “Protect your Mosques from innocent children, the insane, business dealings, quarrels, and from raised voices.” 2

Hazrat ‘Ubaidullah bin Hafas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, “The one who responds to the call of Allah Ta’ala’s preacher and constructs the Mosques very well, the reward for that from Allah Ta’ala is Paradise.’ Someone asked, ‘What does construct it very well mean?’ Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam replied, ‘Not to raise your voices in it and not to have any idle talk coming from your tongues.’” 3


Wasallam’s beloved devotees! The reward for constructing a Mosque is obtained by not raising our voices and not having idle chat on our tongues in the Mosques. If only we would understand this and act upon it! May Allah Ta’ala grant us proper understanding and wisdom, and the ability to act upon the sayings of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen.

Our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has said that ‘Towards the end of time, there will be certain people who will come to the Mosques, will sit in groups, will talk about worldly things, and will swap stories about love of the world. Do not sit with them as Allah Ta’ala has no need for them.’ 4

1 Jaami ul Ahadith Pages 508-509 2 Fatawa e Razvia Part 6 Page 404 3 Shamahimul Ambar Page 19 4 Makashifatul Quloob Page 533

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Wasallam’s beloved devotees! It is critical for us to act upon the above-mentioned Hadith. Nowadays, there is less worship and remembrance of Allah Ta’ala, and more worldly talk in the Mosques. We should fear Allah Ta’ala and, for Allah Ta’ala’s sake, sit separately from people who do not respect the etiquettes of the Mosque and talk about worldly things in the Mosque, so that we too are not guilty of disrespecting the Mosque. May Allah Ta’ala look at us all with Mercy and guide us all, Aameen.

HOW ABOUT TALKING LOUDLY?

Hazrat Sa’eed bin Ibrahim Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaihi narrates on the authority of his father that the Commander of the Faithful, Sayyedina ‘Umar Faruq e ‘Azam Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu heard a raised voice in the Mosque and asked, “Do you know where he is? Do you know where he is?” (Meaning he disliked raised voices in the Mosque) 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! We realise that raising our voices or talking in a raised voice in the Mosque is disliked by Sayyedina Rasool Allah Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam and by his blessed Companions. We are being destroyed and disgraced nowadays because we do not any longer care about the likes and dislikes of our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho

‘Alaihi Wasallam. May Allah Ta’ala grant us all true understanding and guide us all to obey and follow the rules and etiquettes of the Mosque, Aameen.

SIGNS OF A HYPOCRITE

Leader of Muslims, Sayyedina Hazrat ‘Uthman Ghani Radiallaho

Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, "Once the call to prayer has been made in the Mosque, the person who leaves the Mosque without reason, or has no intention of coming to the Mosque, is a hypocrite.” 2

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Wasallam’s beloved devotees! What a strict order is given by Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam; we need to look at ourselves sincerely and see exactly where we are. What level are we at? We should beware, and save ourselves from hypocrisy. May Allah Ta’ala look at us all with Mercy and save us from the habits of hypocrites, Aameen.

Hazrat Abu Sha’tha Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that a person left Masjid e Nabvi after the Adhaan for ‘Asr prayer had been said, and Hazrat Abu Hurairah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu said, “That person has disobeyed Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.”

Hazrat Imam Ahmad Raza Muhaddith of Bareilly ‘Alaihir Rahmah states that it is compulsory to protect the Mosque from offensive odours, therefore it is forbidden to burn kerosene, to burn matchsticks, and to take raw meat into the Mosque. Although the smell of raw meat is very light, it is not permissible in the vicinity of the mosque. Mosques are specifically built for congregations, but do not think that it is allowed to take things that smell into the Mosque if the Mosque is empty, as there is no one for the smell to annoy. This is not permissible because the smells annoy and cause discomfort to the Angels who reside in the Mosque(s). It is compulsory to protect the Mosque from impurities. 1

WORDS OF A’ALA HAZRAT Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaih

Let us look at some of the research of Sarkaar A’ala Hazrat Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Faazil e Bareilly Rehmatullahe Ta’ala ‘Alaihi, so that the eagerness for respecting the rules and etiquettes of the Mosque increases in all of us.

To talk about lawful worldly things whilst sitting in the mosque destroys rewards like fire destroys wood. It is stated in “Fathul Kabeer” that “Talking about lawful worldly things in the Mosque destroys good deeds.” It is stated in “Ashbah” that “Worldly talk destroys good deeds like fire destroys wood.”

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A Hadith is quoted in ‘Madaarik’ states, “Worldly talk in the Mosque eats good deeds like an animal eats grass.” In “Ghamzul ‘Uyoon”, it quotes from “Khazanatul Fiqh” that, “Forty years’ good deeds of the person who talks about worldly things in the Mosque are made worthless by Allah Ta’ala.”

In “Hadiqah Nadyah” it states that “To talk about profitable lawful worldly things, without a valid reason in the Mosque, is abominable (Makrooh e Tahreemi).” Having a valid reason means that the one who is in seclusion (I’tikaaf) may talk about worldly things if it is absolutely necessary to do so. The following Hadith is then stated, “Allah Ta’ala will not desire goodness for them and they are unfortunate and deprived.”

Allahu Akbar! If these are the orders for talking about lawful, permissible things in the Mosque, then what would the order be for talking about non-permissible, forbidden things?

To purchase anything in the Mosque, sell anything, or to talk about business transactions are all forbidden. The person who is in seclusion (I’tikaaf) is allowed to purchase things that he needs, provided the item being purchased remains outside the Mosque, or is something that is small and pure and is not against the respect or etiquettes of the Mosque. He (person in I’tikaaf) is also allowed to purchase items to start and end his fast. 1

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Now that we have read the orders above, we should not fall short in acting upon them, and save ourselves from ruin. May Allah Ta’ala grant us all true understanding and guide us all to obey and follow the rules and etiquettes of the Mosque, Aameen.

RESPECTING THE MOSQUE

Hazrat Muaawiya bin Qarrah Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhuma narrates on the authority of his father that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam prohibited them from eating onions and garlic and stated that,

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“Do not come near our Mosque after eating them, if you must eat them, cook them first and remove the smell.” 1

PROHIBITED FROM TALKING LOUDLY

Hazrat Saaib bin Yazeed narrates that whilst he was sleeping in the Mosque a person threw a pebble at him. He saw that it was ‘Umar bin Khattab Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu, who said, “Go and bring those two people to me.”

The two were brought to ‘Umar bin Khattab Radiallaho

Ta’ala ‘Anhu and he said, “What are you?” or “Where are you from?” The two replied that they were from Ta’if. Sayyedina ‘Umar bin Khattab Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu said, “If you were residents of Madinah, I would have you punished because you are raising your voices in the Mosque of Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam.” 2 My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved

devotees! We realise from the above-mentioned Hadith that talking about worldly things or talking loudly in the Mosque is not allowed.

May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to respect and obey all the rules and etiquettes of the Mosque, Aameen.

PROHIBITED FROM SPITTING IN THE MOSQUE

Hazrat Anas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, "To spit in the Mosque is a sin and its compensation is to bury it.” 3

In another narration, it is stated that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam once saw some spit on the wall facing the Qibla. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam did not like this and the signs of displeasure were apparent on his blessed face. He Sallallaho ‘Alaihi

Wasallam got up, cleaned it with his blessed hands and then said, “When any of you stands up for prayer, he is not free of the fact

1 Abu Dawood Shareef 2 Bukhari Shareef 3 Bukhari Shareef

354

that he is making supplication to his Lord; without doubt, his Lord is between him and the Qibla. Therefore none of you should spit in the direction of the Qibla, and this act (spitting) should only be done on the left side or under your feet.” Then Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam spat in his sheet, rubbed it together and said, “Do it like that.” 1

Hazrat ‘Umar bin Sho’aib Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates from his father who narrated from his father that poetry, business transactions, and sitting in groups before Friday prayers were prohibited by Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam. 2

Hazrat Anas Radiallaho Ta’ala ‘Anhu narrates that Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam said, "One of the signs of the Day of Judgement is that people will boast in the Mosque.” 3

My Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam’s beloved devotees! Our Beloved Prophet Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam told us things over 1400 years ago that are evident today before our very eyes. We pay a lot of attention to the outward beauty and decoration of the Mosques and we all boast about the visible beauty, but the spirit and essence of prayers (Salaah) is not visible in us. Dr Iqbal has indeed stated the truth when he said:

They did build the mosque in a night, those with passionate faith The soul, as sinful as ever, could not become punctual in prayer

The Mosques are lamenting, there are no worshippers left Meaning those with the qualities of Arabia, there are none.

SOME ESSENTIAL POINTS

Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has stated that when any of you enters the Mosque, perform two rak’ats prayer before you sit down. 4

1 Bukhari Shareef 2 Abu Dawood Shareef 3 Nisaai Shareef 4 Makashifatul Quloob Page 532

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To deliberately point the feet towards the Qibla is abominable (Makrooh), whether whilst awake or whilst sleeping.

To copulate, urinate or defecate on the roof of the Mosque is strictly forbidden. Similarly, it is forbidden for an unclean man or a menstruating woman to go on the roof of the Mosque, as the roof is classified as part of the Mosque. To climb on the roof of the Mosque without reason is also abominable (Makrooh). 1

To make the Mosque a pathway, meaning to walk through it is permissible. If a habit is made of it, then the person is a transgressor.

To take very small children or insane people into the Mosque is forbidden if there is a suspicion of impurity, otherwise it is abominable (Makrooh). Those people who take shoes into the Mosques should make sure that if there is impurity on the shoes, it is cleaned first. To enter the Mosque with the shoes on is disrespectful. 2

To protect the Mosque from all aversions is necessary. We see nowadays that many people perform ablution and then shake the water off their arms and faces in the Mosque; this is not allowed.

If the clothes or feet are wet, it is forbidden to wipe them with the walls or pillars of the Mosque. It is also forbidden to wipe them with (cow) dung that is spread out. But, if there is a clutter of dust, then it is permissible to dry with that. You can also dry with a stick that is lying on the ground and is not part of the Mosque. You can also dry with a discarded part of a mat that is not used for prayer. It is however better to avoid this. 3

Do not throw the dirt from the Mosque in a place where it will be disrespected.

1 Durr al Mukhtar, Radd ul Mukhtar 2 Radd ul Mukhtar 3 ‘Alamgiri, Sageeri

356

To climb on the roof of the Mosque without reason is abominable.

To crack the fingers in the Mosque is not allowed.

To perform prayers in the local Mosque is better than the Friday prayer Mosque (Jaamia), even if the congregational prayer is shorter in length, or the gathering is larger in the Friday Mosque. Rather, if there is no congregational prayer in the local Mosque, one should go and give the call to prayer (Adhaan & Iqamah), and perform prayer alone. This is better and more rewarding than going to the Friday prayer Mosque.

There is no permission for leaving the Mosque after the call to prayer has been said. Rasool Allah Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam has stated in a Hadith that only hypocrites leave the Mosque after the call to prayer has been said. However, the person who has to leave for something and intends to return can leave, provided he will be back before the prayer begins. The person who is an employee of another Mosque can leave to go to his Mosque. 1

I supplicate to Allah Ta’ala that He grants us all the guidance to act upon everything we have heard and read about the respects of the Mosque, and may He instil in our hearts the passion and enthusiasm to obtain benefits from the Mosque, Aameen Thumma Aameen.

1 Various Books of Fiqh, Bahaar e Shariat Vol 1

To instil love for the Mosques in our hearts

Read & Teach

Barkaat e Shariat every day in your homes and Mosques for 5 minutes. Insha Allah you will gain

closeness to the Qur’an, closeness to Rasool Allah (Sallallaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam),

& closeness to the Mosques.


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SUPPLICATION (MUNAAJAAT)

Yaa Ilaahi Har Jagah Teri ‘Ataa Kaa Saath Ho Jab Parey Mushkil Shahey Mushkil Kushaa Kaa Saath Ho

Yaa Ilaahi Bhool Jaaoon Naz’a Ki Takleef Ko

Shaadiye Deedar Husney Mustafa Kaa Saath Ho

Yaa Ilaahi Gor e Teerah Ki Jab Aaye Sakht Raat UnKey Pyaarey Moonh Ki Subhey Jaan Fiza Kaa Saath Ho

Yaa Ilaahi Jab Zubaney Baahar Aaye Pyaas Sey

Saahib e Kauthar Shahey Jood o ‘Ataa Kaa Saath Ho

Yaa Ilaahi Garmee e Mehshar Sey Jab Bharkey Badan Daaman e Mehboob Ki Thandi Hawa Kaa Saath Ho

Yaa Ilaahi Naama e A’amaal Jab Khulney Lagey

358

‘Aib Poshey Khalq Sattar e Khata Kaa Saath Ho

Yaa Ilaahi Jab Bahain Aankhein Hisaab e Jurm Mey Un Tabbasum Raiz Hoton Ki Du’a Kaa Saath Ho

Yaa Ilaahi Rang Laaye Jab Meri Bey Baakiyan

Unki Neechi Neechi Nazron Ki Hayaa Kaa Saath Ho

Yaa Ilaahi Jab Chaloo Taareekh Raah e Pul Siraat Aaftaab e Haashmi Noorul Huda Kaa Saath Ho

Yaa Ilaahi Jab Sar e Shamsheer Par Chalna Parey

Rabbey Sallim Kehney Waaley Gham Zuda Kaa Saath Ho

Yaa Ilaahi Jo Du’ain Naik Main Tujh Sey Karoon Qudsiyon Key Lab Sey Aameen Rabbana Kaa Saath Ho

Yaa Ilaahi Jab Raza Khwaab e Giraan Sey Sar Uthaaye

Daulat e Beydaar Ishqey Mustafa Kaa Saath Ho

AAMEEN…AAMEEN…AAMEEN

SALUTATION (SALAAM)

Mustafaa Jaan e Rehmat Pey Laakhon Salaam Sham’e Bazm e Hidayat Pey Laakhon Salaam

Shehr e Yaar e Iram Taajdaar e Haram

Nau Bahaar e Shafaa’at Pey Laakhon Salaam

Door o Nazdeek Key Sunney Waaley Wo Kaan Kaan e La’al e Karaamat Pey Laakhon Salaam

Jis Key Maathey Shafaa’at Kaa Sehra Rahaa Us Jabeen e Sa’aadat Pey Laakhon Salaam

Jis Taraf Utth Gayee Dam Mey Dam Aagaya

Us Nigaahe ‘Inaayat Pey Laakhon Salaam

359

Patli Patli Guley Quds Ki Pattiyaan Un Labon Ki Nazaakat Pey Laakhon Salaam

Woh Zubaan Jis Ko Sab Kun Ki Kunji Kahey

Us Ki Naafiz Hukoomat Pey Laakhon Salaam

Kul Jahan Milk Aur Jau Ki Roti Giza Us Shikam Ki Qanaa’at Pey Laakhon Salaam

Ghauth e Azam Imaam Mutuqqa Wan Nuqa Jalwa e Shaan e Qudrat Pey Laakhon Salaam

Shafa’ee Maalik Ahmad Imam e Haneef

Chaar Baag e Imaamat Pey Laakhon Salaam

Kaash Mehshar Mey Jab Unki Aamad Ho Aur Bheyjey Sab Unki Shaukat Pey Laakhon Salaam

Mujh Sey Khidmat Key Qudsi Kahain Haan Raza

Mustafaa Jaan e Rehmat Pey Laakhon Salaam

PUBLICATIONS of: SUNNI DAWAT E ISLAMI

ANWAAR E MUSTAFA

By: Mohammed Khalid Razvi Muballig S.D.I. (Mumbai)

RIGHTS OF PARENTS By: Ameer e Sunni Dawat e Islami

Hafiz o Qari Maulana Muhammad Shakir Ali Noorie

BLESSED SUNNATS Compiled by: Sunni Dawat e Islami (U.K.)

THE BLESSINGS OF THE REMEMBRANCE OF ALLAH

By: Ameer e Sunni Dawat e Islami Hafiz o Qari Maulana Muhammad Shakir Ali Noorie

360

MUZDA E BAKHSHISH


THE WISDOM OF NAMAZ


ISLAMIC RULES


BARKAAT E SHARIAT (PART 1) By: Ameer e Sunni Dawat e Islami

Hafiz o Qari Maulana Muhammad Shakir Ali Noorie

Available at: MAKTAB E TAIBA

Ismail Habib Masjid, 126 Kambekar St, Mumbai-3 www.sunnidawateislami.net

SUNNI DAWAT E ISLAMI

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

Bringing people closer to the Qur’an and Rasool Allah Sallalaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.

Reformation of faith and deeds.

Strive & struggle to act upon the Teachings of the Qur’an and the Blessed Sunnahs of Sayyedina Rasool Allah Sallalaho ‘Alaihi Wasallam.

Populate and keep the Mosques full through Salaah (Salaah).

Tackling and finding a solution for the increasing non-performance of religious duties.

Creating awareness of the requirements of the religion of Islam

361

Loving the young, respecting the elders, and serving humanity.

Eliminating illiteracy and ignorance through education and reformation of characters.

To establish branches of Sunni Dawat E Islami in your area, please contact the worldwide headquarters. Join in the weekly gatherings (Ijtemas) every Saturday after Isha Salah at Markaz Ismail Habib Mosque.

SUNNI DAWAT E ISLAMI Ismail Habib Masjid

126, Kambekar Street, Mumbai 400 003 (India)

E-mail : [email protected] Website : www.sunnidawateislami.net

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