In The Name of Allah, The Most Beneficent The  Most Merciful.

All praises and salutations are due to Him alone, for giving us the opportunity to witness this first day of this year's holy month of Ramadan, we ask Him to send His blessings and peace upon our noblest Prophet Muhammad SAW, the best of all characters, noblest of all those that set forth their foot on earth.

"Let there be a community among you who call to the good, and enjoin the right, and forbid the wrong. They are the ones who have success." [Holy Qur'an, 3:104], hence, the need to create a site (this), during last year's Ramadan, 1432, with a noble mission of spreading out the good messages, virtues, conditions, teachings, manners, expectations, noting, etc of one of the Pillar in Islam, the Ramadan, in an effort to benefit all those seeking more light about this pious month, based on the Quranic injunctions, and sayings and practices of Prophet Muhammad SAW, taking into the consideration of his word: "Spread my message, even if its one ayah." - Hadith.

Its hoped that, we will all work together in achieving this 'a must-do' act, enjoined upon us by Prophet Muhammad PBUH, in educating and reminding self. Please, do drop your observation/suggestion/correction etc on comment sections, so as to rectify the errors in order not to disseminate wrong, poorly-quoted verse or Hadith. Remember: is an act of charity!

Welcome O Ramadan!

In shaa Allah, from tomorrow, subsequent informative and educative pieces underway, in regards to this beloved month of Ramadan..

Once again, Ramadan Mubarak!

Brother Suleiman.

The Eid el Adha: WHAT WE NEED TO KNOW!

[In The Name of Allah, The Most Beneficent, The Most Merciful]

May Allah's Peace, Mercy and Blessings be upon His Noblest Messenger, Muhammad, The Seal of All Prophets, on whom the Glorious Book of Al Furqan was revealed 14 thousands years ago. I welcome you all to this years' Eid el Adha period, the second of the 2 festivals, after Eid el Fijr, Islamically. May Allah spare our life to witness more of it. 

On today's topic:

The Eid el Adha, 10th of Dhul Hj, 1432AH, WHAT WE NEED TO KNOW!

THE FIRST SACRIFICE

The first sacrifice of an animal in the name of Allah was presented by Haabeel, the son of Adam (a.s.). In Surah Maa'ida, the Qur'an describes the incident of Haabeel and Kaabeel. Both were asked to present a sacrifice. It is narrated that Haabeel's sacrificial offering was a lamb. From the above it is clear that sacrificing animals in the name of Allah, as an act of worship, is nothing new. Rather it is something that dates back to the time of the first man on earth.

THE SUNNAH OF THE PROPHET IBRAHEEM (A.S.)

The sacrifice of animals annually on the occasion of Eidul Adha is linked to the sacrifice of Ibraheem (a.s.). The following hadith explains this link to Ibraheem (a.s.):

Zaid bin Arqam (r.a.) narrates that the companions of Rasulullah (s.a.w.) enquired; "O Prophet of Allah, what are these sacrifices (of animals)." He replied; "It is the Sunnah of your father Ibraheem (a.s.)." The Sahaaba further enquired, "What benefit is there in it for us O Prophet of Allah." Rasulullah (s.a.w.) replied; "You will be rewarded for every hair on it's (the sacrificed animals) body ... and for every fibre of wool."

(Mishkaat Vol. 1 p. 129).

To understand how this Ibaadah is linked to Ibraheem (a.s.) we will have to refer to the books of History. The incident regarding the "Qurbani" of Ibraheem (a.s.) is a very lengthy one. We will merely discuss the main aspects of the astounding spirit of sacrifice displayed on this occasion.

Allah Ta'ala had granted Ibraheem (a.s.) a son at a very old age. When this beloved son, Ismaeel (a.s.), was a young boy, Ibraheem (a.s.) saw in a dream that he was slaughtering his son. This dream was experienced on three consecutive nights. The dreams of the Prophets being true and a source of revelation, Ibraheem (a.s.) realized that this was a command of Allah Ta'ala. Hence, he immediately undertook to fulfill this command. In order to prepare his son to submit to the order of Allah, Ibraheem (a.s.) consulted with his son Ismaeel (a.s.) regarding the said command. Ismail (a.s.) unhesitatingly submitted to the order of Allah Ta'ala and assured his father that he would patiently undergo this sacrifice.

Ibraheem (a.s.), together with his son, proceeded to the place of sacrifice. On three occasions Shaytaan attempted to divert them but these exemplary servants of Allah foisted his treacherous plans. Eventually Ibraheem (a.s.) placed his son down and began to pass the knife over his throat. However, as much as he tried, the knife would not penetrate. Finally, a voice was heard from above saying: "O Ibraheem you have surely fulfilled the dream" (Surah 37 Aayah 108). Jibraeel (a.s.), the angel appeared with a sheep from Jannah and Ibraheem (a.s.) was ordered to sacrifice it in place of his beloved son.

(Maariful Qur'an Vol. 7 pp. 457-46 1).

In commemoration of this astonishing and mind boggling spirit of sacrifice, Allah Ta'ala ordered the Ummah of Rasulullah (s.a.w.) to sacrifice an animal on the occasion of Eidul Adha, hence Rasulullah (s.a.w.) described it as "the Sunnah of your father Ibraheem" (Ibn Majah, Mishkaat vol. 1 p. 129).

THE COMMAND OF QURBAANI

The command of Qurbani is found both in the Quran and Ahaadith. In Surah Al-Kawthar. Allah Ta'ala says: "And perform Salaah for your Sustainer and sacrifice" (Surah:108 V. 2)

Ibn Katheer (r.a.) writes the following in the tafseer (commentary) of this Aayah: "The words of Allah 'and perform Salaah for your Sustainer and Sacrifice ...' (means) and sacrifice in the name of Allah alone who has no partner. After having discussed the above aayah at length, Ibn Katheer (r.a.) concludes his discussion in the following words: "The correct view is that "Nahr" (in the verse) refers to the slaughtering of Qurbani animals. It is for this reason that Rasulullah (s.a.w.) used to (first) perform his Eid Salaah and then slaughter his animals (thus maintaining the sequence of the injunction in the verse). Rasulullah (s.a.w.) would then say; "He who has performed our Salaah (i.e. in the manner that we perform it) and slaughtered the animals like us (i.e. after the Eid Salaah), he has indeed correctly discharged his Qurbani. However, he who has slaughtered his animals before the salaah, there is no Qurbani for him" (Bukhari and Muslim).

(Ibn Katheer Vol. 4 p. 558).

From the above discussion it becomes apparent to the discerning reader that the aayah refers to the slaughtering of the Qurbani animals. Hence, it is proved beyond the slightest measure of doubt that the order of Qurbani is proven from the Quran itself. 

VIRTUES OF THE FIRST TEN DAYS OF ZHUL HIJJAH

"By the Dawn! And the ten nights! And the even and the odd!" (Holy Quran 89:1-3)

Allah Ta'ala has declared the first ten days of the month of Zhul Hijjah to be a period of exceptional benevolence. As a mark of distinction, Allah Ta'ala has manifested the sanctity of these "Ten Nights" in the Holy Quran. The majority of scholars believe that the "Ten Nights" refer to the first ten nights of Zhul Hijjah. It is for this reason that Hajj is performed during these days.

An additional significance of this month is the fact that the day of Arafaat is found in it. The day of Arafaat falls on the ninth of Zhul Hijjah. The hadith mentions the special significance and great excellence relating to the first 10 days of Zhul Hijjah.

Ibn Abbas (r.a.) relates that Rasulullah (s.a.w.) said, "On no other days are good deeds more liked by Allah than on these days, the first ten days of Zhul Hijjah." (BUKHARI)

It is reported from Abu Huraira (r.a.) that Rasulullah (s.a.w.) said, "On no days is the worship of Allah Ta'ala more loved than in the first 10 days of Zhul Hijjah. The fast of each of these days is equal to the fast of a whole year, and the Ibaadah of each of these nights is equal to the Ibaadah of Laila-tul-Qadr.'

(TIRMIZI & IBN MAJAH)

Abu Qatadah al-Ansari (r.a.) relates that Rasulullah (s.a.w.) was asked about the saum (fast) on the day of Arafaat (9th Zhul Hijjah). He said, "It compensates for the minor sins of the past year and the coming year." (MUSLIM)

NOTE: This fast is Mustahab. There is no sin if it is not observed.

TAKBEER OF TASHREEK

Allaahu Akbar, Allaahu Akbar. Laa ilaaha illallaahu wallaahu Akbar. Allaahu Akbar walillaahil hamd

Translation: "Allah is most great. Allah is most great. There is no Deity besides Allah and Allah is most Great. Allah is most Great and Verily all praises are for Allah."

It is waajib to recite this Takbeer audibly once after every Fard salah from the morning of the ninth of Zhul Hijjah (Day of Arafah) till the Asr salah of the thirteenth of Dhul Hijjah. The ruling is that the one that performs salah with Jamaa'ah/ congregation, and the one that performs it alone are the same as far as this law is concerned i.e. it is necessary to recite the Takbeer. It is waajib on both male and female. Females should not say the Takbeeraat loudly but softly. (Shami). It is Mustahab (desirable) for those who read their salah individually (men or women) and Musafirs (travellers) to recite the Takbeeraat softly.

VIRTUES OF SACRIFICE / qurbani

It is related by Aayesha (r.a.) that Rasulullah (s.a.w.) said, 'There is nothing dearer to Allah Ta'ala during the days of sacrifice than the sacrificing of animals. The sacrificed animal shall come on the day of Qiyamah with its horns, hair and hooves (to be weighed in reward). The sacrifice is accepted by Allah Ta'ala before the blood reaches the ground. Therefore sacrifice with an open and happy heart." (Tirmizhi, Ibn Majah)

Zaid ibn Arqam (r.a.) related that the companions of Rasulullah (s.a.w.) asked, "O Rasulullah, what is sacrifice?" He replied, "it is the Sunnah of your father Ibraheem". They asked again, "What benefit do we get from it?" he answered, "A reward for every hair of the sacrificed animal." And what reward is there for animals with wool?" they asked. "A reward," he said, 'for every fibre of the wool." (Ibn Majah, Musnad Ahmad, Mishkaat)

ON WHOM IS SACRIFICE COMPULSORY/ WAAJIB ?

Sacrifice during the days of Eid-ul-Adha is waajib (compulsory) on all Muslims (male and female) who own wealth to the value of the Zakaat Nisaab (prescribed amount) on these days of sacrifice (10th, 11th and 12th Zhul Hijjah). The Nisaab value is the price of 19,68 troy ounces of gold or 612,3 grams of silver. Whoever possesses this amount of wealth during this period should make the sacrifice. (Please refer to the home page for the exact dollar amount under the NISAAB table)

THE DAYS OF SACRIFICE

The days of sacrifice are the 10th, 11th and 12th Zhul Hijjah. The actual time commences from after the Eid salah and lasts just until before sunset on the 12th Dhul Hijjah. Although it is permissible to make sacrifice during the night, it is not advisable. The best day for the sacrifice is on the day of Eid. Sacrifice made before the Eid salah is not valid.

THE SACRIFICIAL ANIMAL

The following types of animals can be offered for sacrifice: Camels, oxen, buffaloes, goats and sheep. Besides these animals, no other animals can be offered for sacrifice.

A camel has to be at least five years old. Camels less than five years are not valid for sacrifice. Oxen and buffaloes must not be less than two years. Goats should be at least one year old. Goats less than one year are not valid for sacrificing. Sheep too should be at least one year. However, if a sheep less than a year is of such a size that it resembles a sheep of one year then its sacrifice will be valid. This applies only to sheep.

A camel, ox, cow and buffalo have seven shares in each. In other words, seven persons may sacrifice a single one of these animals. One person may also sacrifice the whole animal for his own sacrifice. A goat or a sheep has only one share. Hence, a goat or a sheep can be sacrificed on behalf of only one person.

ANIMALS WITH DEFECTS

For the validity of the sacrifice it is essential that the animals are free of defect. The sacrifice will not be valid if a defective animal is sacrificed. The following faults are some examples that will be regarded as defects for the purpose of sacrifice: Blindness in both or one eye, A third or more of an ear cut off, A third or more of the tail cut off, An extremely emaciated and weak animal.

RULES OBSERVED AT THE TIME OF SLAUGHTER

The animal to be slaughtered should first be fed and watered; it should not be slaughtered when it is hungry and thirsty.

It should not be dragged along to the place of slaughter.

It should be laid on the ground with ease as it is abominable to use undue force.

It should be laid on the ground on its left side facing the Qiblah, so that it may die easily.

The knife should be sharp; it should never be slaughtered with a blunt knife.

If the knife is to be sharpened, it should not be sharpened in front of the animal.

An animal should not be slaughtered in the presence of another.

As soon as the animal has been placed on the ground, one should hurry to slaughter it, undue delay must be avoided.

The animal should not be slaughtered with such force that the head is severed or the knife reaches the spinal cord.

(Hidaya and Shami)

The above mentioned injunctions are not peculiar to sacrificial animals only; they are meant for any animal that is to be slaughtered.

IMPORTANT REGULATIONS

* It is better to slaughter one's own sacrifice with one's own hands. However, if one does not know how to slaughter, then it is permissible to let someone else slaughter it. It is better to be present when the animal is being slaughtered. This applies to women also, who should be in veil while the sacrifice is being made on her behalf.

* Sacrifice is only waajib (necessary) on one's self and not on behalf of any other member of the family. If there is a minor in the family who is rich, even then it is not necessary to sacrifice on his behalf either from his own wealth or from the minor's wealth. If sacrifice is made on behalf of the minor, then the money should not be taken from the minor's wealth. Such a sacrifice will be regarded as optional (nafl).

* Seven people are allowed to share a cow, camel or buffalo for sacrifice on condition that no person's share should be less than 1/7 of the cow, and that everyone's intention must either be for sacrifice or for Aqeeqa. If any one of the shareholder's share is less than 1/7, then no one's sacrifice will be correct, (even those who have been given a full share).

* If an animal is selected for sacrifice, its milk, wool, hair, etc. have to be given as charity to the poor; or if these are sold, it is compulsory that the money obtained be given to the poor.

* If sacrifice is waajib on a person and the days of Nahr (sacrifice) pass by and he has failed to sacrifice the animal, then he should give charity to the value of a sheep or a goat. If he had already bought an animal then the same animal should be given away as charity.

* The meat of the animal shared by partners should be distributed by weight and not by estimation

* Preferably the sacrificial meat should be divided into three parts. One part should be kept for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor and needy. One who has a large family may keep all the meat.It is Haraam to sell the sarificial meat.

* The sacrificial meal can also be given to people of other faiths on condition that it is not given as a payment for labour.

* When slaughtering it is not necessary to read the niyyat (intention) and dua aloud. If one has made niyyat in one's heart, then uttering only Bismillah-Allahu-Akbar before slaughtering is correct. However if one knows the dua, then it is better to read it. 

A person may eat the meat of every sacrificed animal that is slaughtered, be it a waajib or nafl. It is not permissible for one to eat from a sacrificial animal that is slaughtered as a vow (NAZR), nor a Kaffaarah for a Jinaayat (error/mistake) committed during Hajj, nor is one's children allowed to partake of it. Only the poor and destitute have the right to it.

1. A goat purchased for sacrifice MUST be at least a year old and above, otherwise the sacrifice will not be valid.

2. A cow MUST be 2 years old and above.

3. If a sheep is less than a year old, but it is such a size that it resembles a sheep of one year, then its sacrifice will be valid.

Source: Jamiatul Ulama (JHB)




Wa Salam, remain blessed!




Bro. Suleiman Ibn Adam
/all errors r mine, pls bear wit me.

23rd - 28th: A Ramadhan Checklist!

B i s m i l l a h i r R a h m a n i r R a h i m

Brothers and Sisters in Islam, Its my pleasure to share this important points with you, in an effort to cross-checks and examine our days spent during this glorious and pious month Ramadhan, hope you will find it useful and interesting, May Allah make us among those that will reach the next coming Ramadans..

--------------------------
A Ramadhan Checklist!
--------------------------

1. Ask Allah to enable you to reach Ramadan and to get the most out of it as the Sahabas used to do.

2. Intend to fast every day with Iman and pure intention seeking the reward from Allah alone. The Prophet peace be upon him said, "Whoever fasts in Ramadan with Iman and seeking reward (from Allah) his past sins will be forgiven". (Bukhari)

3. Read the whole Qur'an at least once as the Prophet peace be upon him did.

4. Have Suhoor as the Prophet peace be upon him said, "Have Suhoor because it is blessed".

5. Make Du'a during the fast because the Prophet peace be upon him said that three people's supplication is not rejected one of them is the fasting person. Ask for the good of this life and the next for yourself, your family and Muslims in general.

6. Make Dua before opening the fast. The Prophet peace be upon him said, "The fasting person has a supplication that is answered when he opens his fast".

7. Give Sadaqah and be good to people. The Prophet peace be upon him was the most generous of people and he was most generous in Ramadan.

8. Avoid anything that diminishes the fast such as, lying, backbiting, cheating, getting angry. The Prophet peace be upon him said "Whoever does not give up false statements (i.e. telling lies), and evil deeds, and speaking bad words to others, Allah is not in need of his (fasting) leaving his food and drink." [Bukhari]

9. Do not eat too much after Iftar.

10. Ask for forgiveness since this is the month Allah frees people from the fire.

11. Pray At-Tarawih with Khushoo. If you pray in the Masjid complete the Salah with the Imam. If you pray at home prolong the Salah as long as you can. The Prophet peace be upon him said, "Whoever prays during Ramadan with Iman and seeking reward (from Allah) his past sins will be forgiven".

12. Feed the poor and invite others for Iftar. The Prophet peace be upon him said, "Whoever gives Iftar to someone fasting he will have the same reward without decreasing the reward of the person fasting".

13. Try harder the last ten nights especially the odd nights. The prophet would strive in Ramadan more than he would in any other month and more so in the last ten days.

14. Say this Dua in the nights that Laitul-Qadr is likely to fall on: Allhumma innaka afuwun tuhibbul-afwa fa'fu anni (O Allah you are Forgiving and love forgiveness so forgive me).

15. Ask Allah to accept all your good actions during this month.

16. And Lastly Please remember your parents and the entire muslim ummah in your du’a..

17. One who, while fasting, does not guard his tongue from telling lies, does not refrain from bad deeds, is not respecting his fast and Allah does not approve of mere abstention from food.
- Holy Prophet Muhammad PBUH.
 

#All Errors are mine, please Ignore it, and let me know#

 

 

Remain Blessed...!

Ur Brother, Ur Friend
- Suleiman Ibn Adam

18th - 22nd: How to Seek Laylat-ul-Qadr

(In the Name of Allah, The Most Beneficent, The Most Merciful)


How to Seek Laylat-ul-Qadr

Whats Laylat-ulQard?

Laylat ul-Qadr is the most blessed night. A person who misses it has indeed missed a great amount of good. If a believing person is zealous to obey his Lord and increase the good deeds in his record, he should strive to encounter this night and to pass it in worship and obedience. If this is facilitated for him, all of his previous sins will be forgiven.

Praying Qiyaam

It is recommended to make a long Qiyaam prayer during the nights on which Laylat ul-Qadr could fall. This is indicated in many hadeeths, such as the following:

Abu Tharr (radhiallahu `anhu) relates:

“We fasted with Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) in Ramadaan. He did not lead us (in qiyaam) at all until there were seven (nights of Ramadaan) left. Then he stood with us (that night – in prayer) until one third of the night had passed. He did not pray with us on the sixth. On the fifth night, he prayed with us until half of the night had passed. So we said, ‘Allah’s Messenger! Wouldn’t you pray with us the whole night?’ 

He replied:

‘Whoever stands in prayer with the imaam until he (the imaam) concludes the prayer, it is recorded for him that he prayed the whole night.’…” [Recorded by Ibn Abi Shaybah, Abu Dawud, at-Tirmithi (who authenticated it), an-Nasa'i, Ibn Majah, at-Tahawi (in Sharhu Ma`an il-Athar, Ibn Nasr, al-Faryabi, and al-Bayhaqi. Their isnad is authentic.]

[Point of benefit: Abu Dawud mentioned: "I heard Ahmad being asked, 'Do you like for a man to pray with the people or by himself during Ramadan?' He replied, 'Pray with the people' I also heard him say, 'I would prefer for one to pray (qiyaam) with the imaam and to pray witr with him as well, for the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said: "When a man prays with the imaam until he concludes, it is recorded that he prayed the rest of that night." [Masaa'il]]

Abu Hurayrah (radhiallahu `anhu) narrated that the Messenger (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said:

“Whoever stands (in qiyaam) in Laylat ul-Qadr [and it is facilitated for him] out of faith and expectation (of Allah’s reward), will have all of his previous sins forgiven.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim; the addition "and it is facilitated for him" is recorded by Ahmad from the report of `Ubaadah Bin as-Samit; it means that he is permitted to be among the sincere worshippers during that blessed night.]

Making Supplications

It is also recommended to make extensive supplication on this night. `A’ishah (radhiallahu `anha) reported that she asked Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam), “O Messenger of Allah! If I knew which night is Laylat ul-Qadr, what should I say during it?” And he instructed her to say:

“Allahumma innaka `afuwwun tuh.ibbul `afwa fa`fu `annee – O Allah! You are forgiving, and you loveforgiveness. So forgive me.” [Recorded by Ahmad, Ibn Majah, and at-Tirmithi. Verified to be authentic by Al-Albani]

Abandoning Worldly Pleasures for the Sake of Worship

It is further recommended to spend more time in worship during the nights on which Laylat ul-Qadr is likely to be. This calls for abandoning many worldly pleasures in order to secure the time and thoughts solely for worshipping Allah. `A’ishah (radhiallahu `anha) reported:

“When the (last) ten started, the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) would tighten his izaar (i.e. he stayed away from his wives in order to have more time for worship), spend the whole night awake (in prayer), and wake up his family.”

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

And she said:

“Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) used to exert more (in worship) on the last ten than on other nights.” [Muslim]

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Allah knows the best!

Brother in Islam.

<credits to: http://www.faithofmuslims.com/blog/?p=3369 >

14th - 17th Day: The Duration of Fast

(In The Name of Allah, The Most Beneficent, The Most Merciful)

May Peace be upon you all. I start by quoting very inspirational verse from the Glorious Qur'an, as Allah's saying:
They believe in Allah and the Last Day, and enjoin the right and forbid the wrong, and compete in doing good. They are among the righteous. [Qur'an, 3:114]

Subhanallah! May we be among the righteous ones. Today's topic The Duration of Fast (In the Light of Quran and Sunnah), implies. 

".. Eat and drink during the nights (of Ramadan)*1

until you can discern the white streak of dawn

from the blackness of night.*2

Then complete your fast till night-fall.*3

[Quran, 2:187]

Explanations:

*1- In this connection, too, there was a misapprehension at first. Some thought that eating and drinking were absolutely prohibited after the performance of the 'Isha' (Night) Prayer. Others thought that one could eat and drink so long as one had not fallen asleep, but that if one had it was not permissible to eat on reawakening. These were people's own fancies and often caused great inconvenience. This verse seeks to remove all such misconceptions. It clearly lays down the duration of the fast: from dawn until sunset. Between sunset and dawn it is permissible to eat, to drink, and to indulge in the legitimate gratification of sexual desires. At the same time the Prophet introduced the pre-fasting repast, recommending a good meal just before dawn.

*2- In fixing the time of obligatory rites, Islam has been mindful that these timings should be so clear and simple that people, at all stages of development, should be able to follow them. This is why Islam bases its timing on conspicuous natural phenomena and not on the clock.

*3- 'Complete your fasting until night sets in' means that the time of fasting ends with nightfall, i.e. sunset marks the breaking of the fast. The precise time of the end of the pre-dawn repast is when a lean strip of aurora appears at the eastern end of the horizon and begins to grow. The time to break one's fast starts when the darkness of night seems to have begun to appear over the eastern horizon.

In our own time, some people have adopted an attitude of extreme caution with regard to the time of both the end and start of fasting. The Law has not fixed these schedules with rigid precision. If a person wakes up just at the crack of dawn it is proper for him to eat and drink hastily.

(The Noblest Messenger of Allah, Peace Be Upon Him)

According to a Tradition the Prophet (sal-allahu- alleihi-wasallam ) said: 'If anyone of you hears the call for [the morning] Prayer while he is eating he should not stop immediately, but should finish eating to the extent of his bare need.' (Abu Da'ud. Siyam', 14 - Ed.) Similarly, one need not wait for the light of day to disappear fully before breaking the fast. The Prophet (sal-allahu- alleihi-wasallam ), for instance, used to ask Bilal to bring him something to drink as soon as the sun had set. Bilal expressed his astonishment, pointing out that the light of day could still be observed. To this the Prophet (sal-allahu- alleihi-wasallam ) replied that the time of fasting came to an end when the darkness of night began to rise from the east. (Muslim, 'Siyam', 10; Abu Da'ud, 'Siyam', 15; etc. - Ed.)

May Allah have mercy upon us all. Ameen!

- Brother in Islam

11th, 12th & 13th: The Virtues of Ramadan Itemized

(In the Name of Allah, The Most Beneficent, The Most Merciful)

As the title implies, The Virtues of Ramadan Itemized; as per below:-

Praise be to Allaah.

1 – Allaah has made fasting this month the fourth pillar of Islam, as He says (interpretation of the meaning): “The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’aan, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong). So whoever of you sights (the crescent on the first night of) the month (of Ramadan i.e. is present at his home), he must observe Sawm (fasts) that month…” [al-Baqarah 2:185]


It is narrated in al-Saheehayn (al-Bukhaari - 8; Muslim - 16) from the hadeeth of Ibn ‘Umar(may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Islam is built on five (pillars): the testimony that there is no god except Allaah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah; establishing prayer; paying zakaah; fasting Ramadaan; and Hajj to the House (the Ka’bah).”


2 – Allaah revealed the Qur’aan in this month, as He says in the verse quoted above (interpretation of the meaning): “The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’aan, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong)…” [al-Baqarah 2:185] And Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Verily, We have sent it (this Qur’aan) down in the Night of Al-Qadr (Decree).” [al-Qadr 97:1]


3 – Allaah has made Laylat al-Qadr in this month, which is better than a thousand months, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Verily, We have sent it (this Qur’aan) down in the Night of Al-Qadr (Decree). And what will make you know what the Night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is? The Night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is better than a thousand months (i.e. worshipping Allaah in that night is better than worshipping Him a thousand months, i.e. 83 years and 4 months). Therein descend the angels and the Rooh [Jibreel (Gabriel)] by Allaah’s Permission with all Decrees, (All that night), there is peace (and goodness from Allaah to His believing slaves) until the appearance of dawn” [al-Qadar 97:1-5]


“We sent it (this Qur’aan) down on a blessed night [(i.e. the Night of Al-Qadr) in the month of Ramadan — the 9th month of the Islamic calendar]. Verily, We are ever warning [mankind that Our Torment will reach those who disbelieve in Our Oneness of Lordship and in Our Oneness of worship]” [al-Dukhaan 44:3]


Allaah has blessed Ramadaan with Laylat al-Qadr. Explaining the great status of this blessed night, Soorat al-Qadr was revealed, and there are many ahaadeeth which also speak of that, such as the hadeeth of Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) who said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “There has come to you Ramadaan, a blessed month which Allaah has enjoined you to fast, during which the gates of heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed, and the rebellious devils are chained up. In it there is a night which is better than a thousand months, and whoever is deprived of its goodness is indeed deprived.” Narrated by al-Nasaa’i, 2106; Ahmad, 8769. classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Targheeb, 999.

Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever spends Laylat al-Qadr in prayer out of faith and in the hope of reward, will be forgiven his previous sins.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1910; Muslim, 760.

4 – Allaah has made fasting Ramadaan and spending its nights in prayer out of faith and in the hope of reward a means of forgiveness of sins, as was proven in al-Saheehayn (al-Bukhaari, 2014; Muslim, 760) from the hadeeth of Abu Hurayrah(may Allaah be pleased with him) according to which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever fasts Ramadaan out of faith and in the hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” And al-Bukhaari (2008) and Muslim (174) also narrated from Abu Hurayrah(may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever spends the nights of Ramadaan in prayer out of faith and in the hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.”

5 – In this month, Allaah opens the gates of Paradise and closes the gates of Hell, and chains up the devils, as is stated in al-Saheehayn (al-Bukhaari, 1898; Muslim, 1079), from the hadeeth of Abu Hurayrah who said that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “When Ramadaan comes, the gates of Paradise are opened and the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained up.”

6 – Every night Allaah has people whom He redeems from the Fire. Imam Ahmad (5/256) narrated from the hadeeth of Abu Umaamah(may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “At every breaking of the fast, Allaah has people whom He redeems.” Al-Mundhiri said: there is nothing wrong with its isnaad; and it was classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Targheeb, 987.

Abu Sa’eed(may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Allaah has people whom He redeems every day and night – i.e., in Ramadaan – and every Muslim every day and night has a prayer that is answered.” Recorded by Al-Bazzaar (Kashf 962)

7 – Fasting Ramadaan is a means of expiation for the sins committed since the previous Ramadaan, so long as one avoids major sins. It was proven in Saheeh Muslim (233) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The five daily prayers, from one Jumu’ah to the next and from one Ramadaan to the next are expiation for (sins committed) in between, so long as you avoid major sins.”

8 – Fasting in Ramadaan is equivalent to fasting ten months, as is indicated by the hadeeth in Saheeh Muslim (1164) narrated from Abu Ayyoob al-Ansaari(may Allaah be pleased with him): “Whoever fasts Ramadaan then follows it with six days of Shawwaal, it will be like fasting for a lifetime.” Ahmad (21906) narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever fasts Ramadaan, a month is like ten months, and fasting six days after al-Fitr will complete the year.”

9 – Whoever prays qiyaam in Ramadaan with the imam until he finishes, it will be recorded for him that he spent the whole night in prayer, because of the report narrated by Abu Dawood (1370) and others from the hadeeth of Abu Dharr (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever prays qiyaam with the imam until he finishes, it will be recorded for him that he spent the whole night in prayer.” Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Salaat al-Taraaweeh, p. 15

10 – ‘Umrah in Ramadaan is equivalent to Hajj. Al-Bukhaari (1782) and Muslim (1256) narrated that Ibn ‘Abbaas(may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said to a woman among the Ansaar, “What kept you from doing Hajj with us?” She said, “We only had two camels that we used for bringing water.” So her husband and son had gone for Hajj on one camel, and he left the other for them to use for bringing water.” He said, “When Ramadaan comes, go for ‘Umrah, for ‘Umrah in Ramadaan is equivalent to Hajj.” According to a report narrated by Muslim, “… is equivalent to doing Hajj with me.”

11 – It is Sunnah to observe i’tikaaf (retreat for the purpose of worship) in Ramadaan, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) always did that, as it was narrated in the hadeeth of ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to spend the last ten days of Ramadaan in i’tikaaf until he passed away, then his wives observed i’tikaaf after him.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1922; Muslim, 1172.

12 – It is mustahabb in Ramadaan to offer iftaar to those who are fasting, Zayd ibn Khaalid al-Juhani (may Allaah be pleased with him) who said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever gives iftaar to one who is fasting will have a reward like his, without that detracting from the fasting person’s reward in the slightest.” Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 807; Ibn Maajah, 1746; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Tirmidhi, And Allaah knows best.

Source: http://www.islamqa.com/


Wa Salam,

Brother in Islam,

9th, 10th: Reading & Understanding Verse from Holy Quran

(In the Name of Allah, The Most Beneficent, The Most Merciful)



Read: in the name of thy Lord Who createth! [Q96:1]

Let us Read, Understand & Reflects upon the meaning of the Glorious Verses of the Quran!

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Peace be upon you all.

Remain blessed!

Brother-In-Islam