Beautiful reminders

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11. The Right to Basic Necessities of Life

Islam has recognized the right of the needy people that help and
assistance will be provided for them. “And in their wealth there is
acknowledged right for the needy and the destitute” (51:19). In this
verse, the Quran has not only conferred a right on every man who asks
for assistance in the wealth of the Muslims, but has also laid down that
if a Muslim comes to know that a certain man is without the basic
necessities of life, then irrespective of the fact whether he asks for
assistance or not, it is his duty to reach him and give all the help that
he
can extend. For this purpose Islam has not depended only on the help
and charity that is given voluntarily, but has made compulsory charity,
zakat as the third pillar of Islam, next only to profession of faith and
worship of God through holding regular prayers.
The Prophet saww has
clearly instructed in this respect that: “It will be taken from their rich
and given to those in the community in need” (al-Bukhari and Muslim).
In addition to this, it has also been declared that the Islamic State
should support those who have nobody to support them. The Prophet
has said: “The Head of state is the guardian of him, who has nobody to
support him” (Abu Dawud, al-Tirmidhi).
The word wali which has been
used by the Prophet saww is a very comprehensive word and has a wide range
of meanings. If there is an orphan or an aged man, if there is a crippled
or unemployed person, if one is invalid or poor and has no one else to
support him or help him, then it is the duty and the responsibility of
the state to support and assist him. If a dead man has no guardian or
heir, then it is the duty of the state to arrange for his proper burial. In
short the state has been entrusted with the duty and responsibility of
looking after all those who need help and assistance. A truly Islamic
State is therefore a truly welfare state which will be the guardian and
protector of all those in need.

12. Equality Before Law

Islam gives its citizens the right to absolute and complete equality
in the eyes of the law. As far as the Muslims are concerned, there are
clear instructions in the Holy Quran and hadith that in their rights and
obligations they are all equal: “The believers are brothers (to each
other)” (49:10). “If they (disbelievers) repent and keep up prayer and
pay the Ipoor-due, they are your brothers in faith” (9:11).
The
Prophet has said that: “The life and blood of Muslims are equally
precious” (Abu Dawud; Ibn Majjah). In another hadith he has said:
“The protection given by all Muslims is equal. Even an ordinary man
of them can grant protection to any man” (al-Bukhari; Muslim; Abu
Dawud). In another more detailed Tradition of the Prophet, it has been
said that those who accept the Oneness of God, believe in the Prophet-
hood of His Messenger, give up primitive prejudices and join the Muslim
community and brotherhood, “then they have the same rights and
obligations as other Muslims have” (al-Bukhari; al-Nisa’i). Thus there is
absolute equality between the new converts to Islam and the old
followers of the Faith.

This religious brotherhood and the uniformity of their rights and
obligations is the foundation of equality in Islamic society, in which the
rights and obligations of any person are neither greater nor lesser in any
way than the rights and obligations of other people.
As far as the non-
Muslim citizens of the Islamic State are concerned, the rule of Islamic
Shari’ah (law) about them has been very well expressed by the Caliph
‘Ali in these words: “They have accepted our protection only because
their lives may be like our lives and their properties like our properties”
(Abu Dawud). In other words, their (of the dhimmis) lives and
properties are as sacred as the lives and properties of the Muslims.
Discrimination of people into different classes was one of the greatest
crimes that, according to the Quran, Pharaoh used to indulge in: “He
had divided his people into different classes,” … “And he suppressed
one group of them (at the cost of others)” (28:4).

13. Rulers Not Above the Law

Islam clearly insists and demands that all officials of the Islamic
State, whether he be the head or an ordinary employee, are equal in
the eyes of the law. None of them is above the law or can claim
immunity. Even an ordinary citizen in Islam has the right to put
forward a claim or file a legal complaint against the highest executive of
the country. The Caliph ‘Umar said, “I have myself seen the Prophet,
may God’s blessings be on him, taking revenge against himself
(penalizing himself for some shortcoming or failing).” On the occasion
of the Battle of Badr, when the Prophet was straightening the rows of
the Muslim army he hit the belly of a soldier in an attempt to push him
back in line. The soldier complained “O Prophet, you have hurt me
with your stick.” The Prophet immediately bared his belly and said: “I
am very sorry, you can revenge by doing the same to me.” The soldier
came forward and kissed the abdomen of the Prophet and said that this
was all that he wanted.

A woman belonging to a high and noble family was arrested in
connection with a theft. The case was brought to the Prophet, and
it was recommended that she may be spared the punishment of theft.
The Prophet replied: “The nations that lived before you were destroyed
by God because they punished the common men for their offences and
let their dignitaries go unpunished for their crimes; I swear by Him
(God) who holds my life in His hand that even if Fatimah, the daughter
of Muhammad, has committed this crime then I would have amputated
her hand.”
During the caliphate of ‘Umar, Muhammad the son of ‘Amr
ibn al-‘As the Governor of Egypt, whipped an Egyptian. The Egyptian
went to Medina and lodged his complaint with the Righteous Caliph,
who immediately summoned the Governor and his son to Medina.
When they appeared before him in Medina, the Caliph handed a whip to
the Egyptian complainant and asked him to whip the son of the
Governor in his presence. After taking his revenge when the Egyptian
was about to hand over the whip to ‘Umar, he said to the Egyptian:
“Give one stroke of the whip to the Honourable Governor as well.
His
son would certainly have not beaten you were it not for the false pride
that he had in his father’s high office.” The plaintiff submitted: “The
person who had beaten me, I have already avenged myself on him.”
‘Umar said: “By God, if you had beaten him (the Governor) I would
not have checked you from doing so. You have spared him of your own
free will.”
Then he (‘Umar) angrily turned to ‘Amr ibn al-‘As and said:
“O ‘Amr, when did you start to enslave the people, though they were
born free of their mothers?” When the Islamic State was flourishing in
its pristine glory and splendour, the common people could equally
lodge complaints against the caliph of the time in the court and the
caliph had to appear before the qadi to answer the charges. And if the
caliph had any complaint against any citizen, he could not use his
administrative powers and authority to set the matter right, but had to
refer the case to the court of law for proper adjudication.

14. The Right to Avoid Sin

Islam also confers this right on every citizen that he will not be
ordered to commit a sin, a crime or an offence; and if any govern-
ment, or the administrator, or the head of department orders an
individual to do a wrong, then he has the right to refuse to comply with
the order. His refusal to carry out such crime or unjust instructions
would not be regarded as an offence in the eyes of the Islamic law. On
the contrary giving orders to one’s subordinates to commit a sin or do a
wrong is itself an offence and such a serious offence that the officer
who gives this sinful order whatever his rank and position may be, is
liable to be summarily dismissed.
These clear instructions of the Prophet
are summarized in the following hadith: “It is not permissible to dis-
obey God in obedience to the orders of any human being” (Musnad of
Ibn Hanbal). In other words, no one has the right to order his
subordinates to do anything against the laws of God. If such an order
is given, the subordinate has the right to ignore it or openly refuse to
carry out such instructions.
According to this rule no offender will be
able to prove his innocence or escape punishment by saying that this
offence was committed on the orders of the government or superior
officers. If such a situation arises then the person who commits the
offence and the person who orders that such an offence be committed,
will both be liable to face criminal proceedings against them. And if an
officer takes any improper and unjust measures against a subordinate
who refuses to carry out illegal orders, then the subordinate has the
right to go to the court of law for the protection of his rights, and he
can demand that the officer be punished for his wrong or unjust orders.

15. The Right to Participate in the Affairs of State

According to Islam, governments in this world are actually
representatives (khulafa’) of the Creator of the universe, and this
responsibility is not entrusted to any individual or family or a particular
class or group of people but to the entire Muslim nation. The Holy
Quran says: “God has promised to appoint those of you who believe
and do good deeds as (His) representatives on earth” (24:55).
This
clearly indicates that khilafah is a collective gift of God in which the
right of every individual Muslim is neither more nor less than the right
of any other person. The correct method recommended by the Holy
Quran for running the affairs of the state is as follows: “And their
business is (conducted) through consultation among themselves”
(42:38). According to this principle it is the right of every Muslim that
either he should have a direct say in the affairs of the state or a
representative chosen by him and other Muslims should participate in
the consultation of the state. Islam, under no circumstance, permits or
tolerates that an individual or a group or party of individuals may
deprive the common Muslims of their rights, and usurp powers of the
state. Similarly, Islam does not regard it right and proper that an
individual may put up a false show of setting up a legislative assembly
and by means of underhand tactics such as fraud, persecution, bribery,
etc., gets himself and men of his choice elected in the assembly. This is
not only a treachery against the people whose rights are usurped by
illegal and unfair means, but against the Creator Who has entrusted the
Muslims to rule on this earth on His behalf, and has prescribed the pro-
cedure of an assembly for exercising these powers. The shura or the
legislative assembly has no other meaning except that:

(1) The executive head of the government and the members of the
assembly should be elected by free and independent choice of the
people.

(2) The people and their representatives should have the right to
criticize and freely express their opinions.
(3) The real conditions of the country should be brought before
the people without suppressing any fact so that they may be able to
form their opinion about whether the government is working properly
or not.
(4) There should be adequate guarantee that only those people
who have the support of the masses should rule over the country and
those who fail to win this support should be removed from their
position of authority.

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HUMAN RIGHTS IN ISLAMby *‘Allamah Abu al-‘A’la Mawdudi
al Tawhid Journal, vol. IV No. 3 Rajab-Ramadhan 1407

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"Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children..."

-Quran (57:20)

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Good Examples That A Muslim Should Follow



We must look at the best role model and example and try to emulate the lifestyle of that person. We know, of course, that is the Messenger of Allah, Muhammad (S).



"Indeed in the Messenger of Allah you have an excellent example to follow for him who hopes in (the meeting with) Allah and the Last Day and remembers Allah much." (Al-Ahzab 33:21)

"And verily, you (O Muhammad) are on an exalted (standard of) character." (Al-Qalam 68:4)

Our families and we should know how Muhammad (S) lived, acted, and behaved so we could attempt to shape our behavior to the way he (S) acted.

Our behavior and character should be like that of the Messengers of Allah in dealing with others. This way we can, Insha’Allah, set a good example to others. I am addressing to myself first and foremost. One’s example goes a long way in how people perceive them. If we set a good example then people will be more likely to listen to what we have to say.

"And by the Mercy of Allah, you (Muhammad) dealt with them gently. And had you been severe and harsh-hearted, they would have broken away from you." (Al-Imran 3:159)

We should display this good character all the time, as we know that Muhammad (S) had the best character in not only dealing with non-Muslims, but with his family and companions as well.

Now a days we seem to know so much about the lifestyles of the rich and famous, but not about the examples of Muhammad (S) and his companions.


"And the first to embrace Islam of the Muhajirun (ones who emigrated from Makkah to Medina) and the Ansar (residents of Medinah who helped the Muhajirun) and those who followed them exactly. Allah is well pleased with them, as they are well pleased with Him. He has prepared for them Gardens under which rivers flow (Paradise), to dwell therein forever. That is the supreme success." (9:100)

One could probably rattle off more about politicians, actors, movie stars, and musicians than people like Prophet Muhammad (S), his family, and his companions. It is obvious what group what should try to follow.

Muhammad (S) said (what means),"A person is likely to follow the faith of his friend, so look whom you befriend." (Abu Dawood and at-Tirmidhee)
He (S) also said (what means).
"The example of a good companion and a bad companion is like that of the seller of musk, and the one who blows the blacksmith's bellows. So as for the seller of musk then either he will grant you some, or you buy some from him, or at least you enjoy a pleasant smell from him. As for the one who blows the blacksmith's bellows then either he will burn your clothes or you will get an offensive smell from him." (Bukhari and Muslim)

Muhammad (S) also told us we will be with those who we love in the Hereafter (Bukhari and Muslim).If we find ourselves in love with disbelievers then we might find ourselves in big trouble in the Hereafter. If we find ourselves loving what Prophet Muhammad (S) and his companions were all about and the things they did to please Allah Who we love the most, then Insha’Allah we will be in Janat (Paradise) with them.

In order to follow the example of these Salf-us-Salih (pious predecessors), we need to obtain the knowledge of how they adhered to Islam and how they called to Islam so we do these things in the correct manner. This way we can Insha’Allah set a good example for others to see both Muslims and non-Muslims.

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Continue...

"And who is better in speech than he who invites to Allah, and does righteous deeds, and says, ‘I am one of the Muslims." (Al-Fussilat 41:33)


"Say, This is my way. I invite unto Allah with sure knowledge. I and whosoever follows me with sure knowledge. And Glorified and Exalted be Allah. And I am not of the polytheists." (Yusuf 12:108)

We should still be ones who are strong in sticking to the Qur’an and Sunnah, enjoining good and forbidding evil, and not allowing ourselves to fall into sin and bid’ah, but we should present the Qur’an and the Sunnah in the best way to all people.


"Invite to the Way of your Lord with wisdom (The Qur’an) and fair admonition, and argue with them in a way that is better. Truly, your Lord knows best who has gone astray from His path, and He is the Best Aware of those who are guided." (Al-Nahl 16:125)

We should preach in the best way, be quick to forgive others for their shortcomings so they may forgive us, and not waste our time with foolish people.


"Show forgiveness, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the foolish." (Al-A`raaf 7:199)

If there are any of you who for whatever reason are having a conflict with another Muslim, if you haven’t intentionally talked to a fellow Muslim, then be the one who forgives first and makes amends. If we are in a situation when we don’t deal with our fellow Muslims we should never expect to be able to bring disbelievers to Islam.

A good way to help us stick to the Straight Path and set a good example is to associate with good friends who are good Muslim examples, as Muhammad (S) said,
"A person follows the way of his dear friend." (Abu Dawood, Tirmidhi)
Associate people who remember Allah Ta’Ala much and whom strive to obey Allah and His Messenger.

Bad Examples That A Muslim Should Stay Away From

In talking about good examples to follow, one might notice a theme of holding on to one’s Muslim identity. In doing dawah, Allah tells one of the things we should proclaim is we are Muslims and not disbelievers like the polytheists.

Judging from this we can see, we should have our own Muslim identity and we should not imitate the disbelievers in our behavior.

The Messenger of Allah, Muhammad (S) said,

"Be different from the Jews and Christians." (Bukhari, Muslim)

"Be different from the disbelievers." (Bukhari, Muslim)

"Whoever imitates a people is one of them." (Ahmad).

We should not be like them in their ways of:

* Worship (praying to the dead, limiting Allah’s Knowledge, etc.)

* Their celebrations (Christmas, Easter, Valentine’s day, birthdays, anniversaries, etc.)

* Their appearance (men not having beards, women not covering fully, wearing jewelry on our left hands)

* Men wearing earrings and necklaces, shaving part only part of one’s head, etc.

* Their behavior (men and women interacting before marriage as a couple, use of foul language)

* Eating with the left hand, listening to music instead of the Qur’an, etc.)

Muhammad (S) told us,"You will follow the ways of those nations who preceded you very closely; even if they entered a lizard’s hole you would follow them into it." (Bukhari, Muslim)

We can see many Muslims today and see the validity of Muhammad (S)’s statement. It has gone to the point where their fellow Muslim brothers and sisters ridicule men with beards and women wearing hijab.

We should not run away from who we are and our perfect religion of Islam. The one thing we are permitted to proud of is our religion. There is no shame if some non-Muslims see you praying to Allah. There is no shame in a Muslimah covering her head with a scarf and her clothes with a jalbab (outer garment). We should not be ashamed to talk about Islam to others.

Instead of trying to be like the non-Muslims, we should be doing our best to bring them to Islam.



"He who seeks a religion other than Islam, it will not be accepted of him, and he will be among the losers in the Hereafter." (Al-Imran 3:85)

We need to be Good in our behavior as well as our appearance. We want our actions and talk to lead people to Islam, to lead them to follow the Quran and Sunnah, and to not turn them away.

Sometimes even Muslims may not be even following the right minhaj, but if we are harsh with them, then they will never come to the right away.

As Muslims we should not boycott one another for more than 3 days for some non-Islamic reason.

Muhammad (S) the major acts that bring people to Paradise are taqwa and the good behavior (husnal khulaq).Finally we should remember.

Aisha (R) said, Muhammad (S)’s behavior was that of the Qur’an.

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http://quran.com/

Translation of quran...all chapters starting from Al fatiha included.

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http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=kksSNv1E7b8

Story of Zubair ra.

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Anas ra relates that the Prophet Muhammad saww said: “None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.”
[Sahîh al-Bukhârî and Sahîh Muslim]

This is why Abdullah ibn Muhammad ibn Munazil (Allah have mercy upon him), of the early Muslims, said,
“The believer seeks excuses for their brethren, while the hypocrite seeks out the faults of their brethren.” [Sulami, Adab al-Suhba]

"If a friend among your friends errs, make seventy excuses for him. If your hearts are unable to do this, then know that the shortcoming is in your own selves.”

Allah Most High commanded us:"Believers! Leave much doubt, for most doubt is sinful.”[Qur’an, 49.12]

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( Hadith no: 143 Narrated / Authority of:Anas bin Malik ra)

In the life-time of Allah's Apostle (p.b.u.h) the people were afflicted with a (famine) year. While the Prophet saww was delivering the Khutba (sermon) on the pulpit on a Friday, a Bedouin stood up and said, "O Allah's Apostle! The livestock are dying and the families (offspring) are hungry: please pray to Allah to bless us with rain."
Allah's Apostle raised both his hands towards the sky and at that time there was not a trace of cloud in they sky. Then the clouds started gathering like mountains. Before he got down from the pulpit I saw rain-water trickling down his beard.
It rained that day, the next day, the third day, the fourth day and till the next Friday, when the same Bedouin or some other person stood up (during the Friday Khutba) and said, "O Allah's Apostle! The houses have collapsed and the livestock are drowned. Please invoke Allah for us." So Allah's Apostle saww raised both his hands and said, "O Allah! Around us and not on us." Whichever side the Prophet saww directed his hand, the clouds dispersed from there till a hole (in the clouds) was formed over Medina. The valley of Qanat remained flowing (with water) for one month and none, came from outside who didn't talk about the abundant rain.'

(Hadith no: 144 Narrated / Authority of:Anas ra)
"Whenever a strong wind blew, anxiety appeared on the face of the Prophet (fearing that wind might be a sign of Allah's wrath)."

(Hadith no: 145 Narrated / Authority of:Ibn Abbas ra)
The Prophet said, "I was granted victory with As-Saba and the nation of 'Ad was destroyed by Ad-Dabur (westerly wind).

(Hadith no: 146 Narrated / Authority of:Abu Huraira ra)
The Prophet saww said, "The Hour (Last Day) will not be established until (religious) knowledge will be taken away (by the death of religious learned men), earthquakes will be very frequent, time will pass quickly, afflictions will appear, murders will increase and money will overflow amongst you." (See Hadith No. 85 Vol 1).

(Hadith no: 147 Narrated / Authority of: Ibn Umar ra)
The Prophet saww said, "O Allah! Bless our Sham and our Yemen." People said, "Our Najd as well." The Prophet again said, "O Allah! Bless our Sham and Yemen." They said again, "Our Najd as well." On that the Prophet said, "There will appear earthquakes and afflictions, and from there will come out the side of the head of Satan."

(Hadith no: 148 Narrated / Authority of:Zaid bin Khalid Al-Juhani ra)
Allah's Apostle saww led the morning prayer in Al-Hudaibiya and it had rained the previous night. When the Prophet (p.b.u.h) had finished the prayer he faced the people and said,
"Do you know what your Lord has said?"
They replied, "Allah and His Apostle know better."
The Prophet saww said,"Allah says, 'In this morning some of My worshipers remained as true believers and some became non-believers; he who said that it had rained with the blessing and mercy of Allah is the one who believes in Me and does not believe in star, but he who said it had rained because of such and such (star) is a disbeliever in Me and is a believer in star.' "

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http://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=URrbb4Xfnxg

http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=LJSVi7UgCyo

Media that fooled islam haters..now converts Alhamdulillah.

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Rights of Animals in islam.

Islam not only has laid down the rights for humans regardless of race, color, language and riches, but has also laid down the rights for animals. Animals, like humans are one of the creations of Allah(swt). Prophet Muhammad(saw) was not only sent as a mercy to Mankind but as a blessing to all creatures as the Quran testifies:

We sent thee not, but as a Mercy for all creatures.*– [Quran 21:107]

It is encouraged for Muslim to let Animals eat of the plants that they have planted. Prophet Muhammad(saw) is reported to have said:

Narated By Anas bin Malik: The Prophet said,*“If any Muslim plants any plant and a human being or an animal eats of it, he will be rewarded as if he had given that much in charity.”*– [Bukhari Vol. 8, Book 73, #41]

Even if an animal eats from a plant which has been planted by man, the person will receive rewards for it. Moreover, another hadith is as follows:

Narated By Abu Huraira:*Allah’s Apostle said,*“While a man was walking on a road. he became very thirsty. Then he came across a well, got down into it, drank (of its water) and then came out. Meanwhile he saw a dog panting and licking mud because of excessive thirst. The man said to himself “This dog is suffering from the same state of thirst as I did.” So he went down the well (again) and filled his shoe (with water) and held it in his mouth and watered the dog. Allah thanked him for that deed and forgave him.” The people asked, “O Allah’s Apostle! Is there a reward for us in serving the animals?” He said, “(Yes) There is a reward for serving any animate (living being).”*– [Bukhari Vol. 8, Book 73, #38] & [Muslim Book 26, Chapter 39, # 5577]

Prophet Muhammad(saw) taught people to be kind to animals. Allah(swt) rewarded the act of the person who quenched the thirst of a thirsty dog. While men were accustomed to be cruel to the animals, Prophet Muhammad(saw) by the command of Allah(swt) taught Mankind to be merciful and kind to all living things. Not only were humans given their rights, the animals too were given theirs. Islam is a religion which teaches man to be merciful towards all living things. Thus there is reward for a human even if he feeds an animal.

Animals have many purposes and are used for such by humans. This does not mean that men have the right to treat animals the way that they want to. While people would hit their animals on the face, Islam forbids such an act. Every creation is very sensitive as far as the face is concerned. If I were to lightly tap a person on the shoulder or on the back, they would not feel offended but if I were to do the same on the face then everyone would find that offensive. Allah(swt) realizes this and thus through Prophet Muhammad(saw) such an act was strictly forbidden as seen by the hadith below:

Narated By Salim: That Ibn ‘Umar disliked the branding of animals on the face. Ibn ‘Umar said,*“The Prophet forbade beating (animals) on the face.”*– [Bukhar Vol.7, Book 67, #449] & [Muslim Book 24, Chapter 21, #5281]

During the times of ignorance (Ja’hillah) people would cut the limbs of animals while they were alive. This was a disgusting act and Islam was the religion that brought an end to this practice. Not only this but shooting at an animal who is tied was also forbidden by Prophet Muhammad(saw).

Narated By Ibn ‘Umar:*The Prophet cursed the one who did Muthla to an animal (i e., cut its limbs or some other part of its body while it is still alive).*– [Bukhari Vol. 7, Book 67, #424]

Narated By Hisham bin Zaid: Anas and I went to Al-Hakam bin Aiyub. Anas saw some boys shooting at a tied hen. Anas said,*“The Prophet has forbidden the shooting of tied or confined animals.”*– [Bukhari Vol. 7, Book 67, #421; #422]

While the animal rights were being laid down by Allah(swt) through Prophet Muhammad(saw), the Prophet(saw) also narrated an incident regarding a woman who imprisoned a cat and made it starve to death.

Narated By ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar : Allah’s Apostle said,*“A lady was punished because of a cat which she had imprisoned till it died. She entered the (Hell) Fire because of it, for she neither gave it food nor water as she had imprisoned it, nor set it free to eat from the vermin of the earth.”*– [Bukhari Vol.4, Book 56, #689]

This hadith clearly suggests that being brutal towards animals is a grave sin and Allah(swt) will punish him who treats the animals without kindness. It is obligatory for the owner of the animal to feed it. Many rights have been given to animals and Muslims are required to obey these guidelines for transgression would make them sinful. While oppressing humans is wrong, Islam also teaches that oppression towards animals is wrong.

Islam gave animals rights at a time when animal rights were not recognized. Today the world is bringing awareness towards the rights of animals whereas Islam gave them their rights more than 1400 years ago. The most famous story about being kind to animals is seen when a cat came and slept on the robe of Prophet Muhammad(saw) while he was reading the Quran to the listeners. When it was time for the Prophet(saw) to get up, instead of disturbing the cat, he cut that piece of the robe and stood up. Today who would cut of a piece of their cloth so that the cat’s sleep would be undisturbed?

Prophet Muhammad(saw) encouraged people to be good towards the animals and forbade acts which are cruel. Oppression is an evil whether the one being oppressed is human or an animal. In Tirmidhi as well as Abu Dawood it is mentioned that Prophet Muhammad(saw) prohibited the act of inciting animals against each other. This act is practiced today as well where cocks and dogs are caused to fight with each other and people place their bets. Not only does this become a sin for it falls under the category of gambling but also because two animals are caused to fight against each other.

There are people who claim that Prophet Muhammad(saw) ordered the killing of all dogs. If one were to read the references they give it is indeed true that such an order was given. However these people will never quote the hadith which explains why such an order was given.

Ibn Mughaffal reported:*Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) ordered the killing of dogs and then said: what is the trouble with them (the people ofMedina)? How dogs are nuisance to them (the citizens of*Medina)? He then permitted keehing of dogs for hunting and (the protection of) herds. In the hadith transmitted on the authority of Yahya, he (the Holy Prophet) permitted the keeping of dogs for (the protection of) herds, for hunting and (the protection of) cultivated land.*– [Muslim Book 10, Chapter 31, #3814]

When one reads this hadith one gets to learn about the context of the order. The people of*Medina*complained that the dogs were being a nuisance to them. This is just like today where many countries have problems with street dogs. There have been many cases where these street dogs have bitten people and transmitted diseases like Rabies. Many have even died from this disease. Due to the complains by the people regarding these stray dogs, Prophet Muhammad(saw) ordered that such dogs who are hazardous to the people should be killed. Back in those days there were not any animal shelter facilities and thus this was the only way to safeguard the people. The hadith further on explains that all dogs were not to be killed and the permission to keep dogs was also given.

Moreover, Prophet Muhammad(saw) also instructed men not to overburden their domestic animals. Burdening a donkey with more load than that which he can easily carry is again a wrongful practice which was forbidden by Allah(swt). Even while sacrificing the animals, it is told that we are to use sharp knives and not blunt ones for the latter would cause pain and discomfort to the animals. Some people have suggested that the Islamic method of slaughtering the animal is cruel and should be stopped. This however was proven to be untrue as the animal dies a painless death. A study was carried out at the*School*of*Veterinary Medicine*by Professor Wilhelm Schulze and Dr. Hazim to detect the pain an animal feels when he is slaughtered by the Islamic way. The EEG recorded showed that with the Islamic way, the animal felt no pain and it was observed that most of the blood was thrown out of the body thus making the meat more hygienic as opposed to the captive bolt pistol stunning method. The conventional method was also observed to be painful to the animal.

The earth has been made for all the creatures that inhabit it and thus they are given their due rights by Islam.

And the earth hath He appointed for (His) creatures.*– [Quran 55:10]

Islam takes great care when laying down its rules and regulation and has made sure that men do not behave with cruelty towards them. Even in a state of war, the Muslims are prohibited from killing the animals in the lands of the enemies and are also prohibited to burning or cutting down trees for no reason. Indeed Islam is a mercy for everyone. It is not only a religion but a complete way of life which even secures the rights of animals.

[ghumbasa]

http://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=8lhHHeJoo2E

A touching story of a sister s repentence.

http://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=DZD0ClPRPpQ

What have you sacrificed?

[ghumbasa]

Why to avoid transgression?



Surah Al Baqarah Ayahs 65-74

The story of the Bani Israel continues, where Allah narrates various stories in the history of the Bani Israel about how they disobeyed Allah and His Messengers. These stories are for us to learn how to please Allah (SWT) and learn what angers Him. The stories are not to look down upon the group of people who have been discussed here.

An example is then given of how the Bani Israel turned away from Allah in a different situation:Ayah 65: "And you had already known about those who transgressed among you concerning the sabbath, and We said to them, "Be apes, despised."

A part of the Jewish tradition is Sabbath, in which they are not allowed to work or do business. At the time of Dawud (AS), the way they would work is they would catch fish. However, they had a feeling that the best day to catch fish was Saturday. This is since they weren't supposed to work, and do their religious duties instead, they felt it must be a good day to fish. They then began to play tricks.

What they would do is put a net in the water and the fish would get caught in it that day, and on Sunday they would pull the net out. By doing this they thought they were bypassing the Shariah. During this time, a conflict arose between two groups of the Bani Israel. One group was righteous, and said that what they are doing is wrong and against the Shariah. Sabbath is not supposed to be a working day. The group that came up with the idea, however, said that they are not going against the Shariah. They are only catching the fish on Saturday, and then taking it on Sunday, so that should be permissible. The righteous people then moved out of the city and isolated those going astray, because they knew that Allah's punishment would come upon those who are disobedient to Allah.

One day what happened was that one day the righteous group who had moved out from the city did not hear any noise coming from the city, and went back to see what was going on. They then saw that their relatives had been turned into apes. The facial features allowed the people to recognize who the apes were, yet they could do nothing about it. Within 3 days, all of the apes had died, and that is how the city was destroyed. So here Allah (SWT) highlights that if it wasn't for Allah's mercy, the Bani Israel in Musa (AS)'s time would have become losers, like this group of people discussed in this ayah.

In the next ayah, the Quran continues, "And We made it a deterrent punishment for those who were present and those who succeeded [them] and a lesson for those who fear Allah ." This incident has been made an example for the people at that time, and all the people who came after them until the Day of Judgement, since this story is preserved in the Quran until that day.Ayah 67 reads, "And [recall] when Moses said to his people, "Indeed, Allah commands you to slaughter a cow." They said, "Do you take us in ridicule?" He said, "I seek refuge in Allah from being among the ignorant."

This story is important because the whole surah (Baqarah), is named after this story. the background of this story is that among the Bani Israel, one day there was a murder. No one knew who the murderer was. There are two possible reasons for the murder, in two narrations:i) A man came to a girl's father, and asked for her hand in marriage. The father said no, so the man killed him .ii) There was a nephew who had a rich uncle who could not have children. This nephew killed the uncle, and put the dead body on the doorstep of another person. The next morning, people saw the dead body and thought that the man whose doorstep the body is on had killed the uncle. He said that he didn't, and a big fight erupted between the Bani Israel.

The elders of the community said that there is no need to fight, since they have Musa (AS) with them, and so he should be asked.When Musa (AS) was narrated this story, he made dua to Allah (SWT), and Allah commanded them to sacrifice a cow. The Bani Israel asked Musa (AS) if he was joking, not believing what he said. Musa (AS) replied that he seeks refuge from the ignorant people. What Allah has said cannot be a joke. What they were supposed to do was kill the animal, take a part of it and hit the dead man, and it would be revealed to them who the murderer was.However, the Bani Israel continued asking questions. In ayah 68 it says, "They said, "Call upon your Lord to make clear to us what it is." [Moses] said, "[ Allah ] says, 'It is a cow which is neither old nor virgin, but median between that,' so do what you are commanded."In the initial command, Allah had told them to sacrifice a cow, and were they to kill any cow, it would have been accepted from them. The way they told Musa (AS) to make dua is they said "Call upon your Lord". Allah is everybody's Lord.
Allah then responds that the cow is neither too old or too young, but in the middle, so do what you were told to do.They again continue asking questions, "They said, "Call upon your Lord to show us what is her color." He said, "He says, 'It is a yellow cow, bright in color - pleasing to the observers.' "They said, "Call upon your Lord to make clear to us what it is. Indeed, [all] cows look alike to us. And indeed we, if Allah wills, will be guided."

In one hadīth [it is reported]: 'Had they not uttered inshā'a Llāh, it would never have been made clear to them."He said, "He says, 'It is a cow neither trained to plow the earth nor to irrigate the field, one free from fault with no spot upon her.' " They said, "Now you have come with the truth." So they slaughtered her, but they could hardly do it." In a hadith, it is very clear that had they killed any cow, it would have been accepted from them. By creating all this questioning, they actually created problems for themselves. When they finally found the right cow, then it belonged to an individual who didn't want to give it. He finally said that the only way he will give his cow is if they return the cow's skin full of gold in its place.

So that is what the Bani Israel had to go through, all because they did not know the a'daab of asking questions. It's always good to question, but with sincerity. These people were not being sincere, they were making fun of the Shariah. The Sahaba were very careful about what it meant by sincere questioning. In fact, it comes in a narration that they only asked 12-14 question in total to the Prophet (SAW). When an outside person used to come, they would love it, since people would ask questions and they could hear the answers.
The 12-14 questions that were asked by the Sahabas were so important, that the answers were narrated by Allah. In the Quran, examples of both extremes have been narrated; those who ask useful questions, and those who ask questions for no purpose.

The next part of the story continues, "And [recall] when you slew a man and disputed over it, but Allah was to bring out that which you were concealing". This is the first part of the cow story. Since Allah has put this part of the story in the second part, the story of the cow is emphasized more. The story of the cow is separate from this story. The Quran continues, "So, We said, "Strike the slain man with part of it." Thus does Allah bring the dead to life, and He shows you His signs that you might reason." When the cow was killed, the people hit a part of it on the dead man, who pointed to his nephew and said that he killed him, and then died again. This point shows that Allah can bring a dead person back to life, and this is what will happen to us on the Day of Judgement.Ayah 74: "Then your hearts became hardened after that, being like stones or even harder.
For indeed, there are stones from which rivers burst forth, and there are some of them that split open and water comes out, and there are some of them that fall down for fear of Allah . And Allah is not unaware of what you do." This ayah highlights that the heart can have many different states. Sometimes hearts can become as hard as rocks. Some hearts are alive, others are dead.

The people whose hearts are alive enjoy the Quran, hadith, the dhikr of Allah. Those people whose hearts are dead are the people who just don't care, and their heart is sealed. This ayah speaks of the diseases of the heart. The heart can be seen from a health point of view, and a spiritual point of view. Here, the spiritual aspect is being discussed. Like the body which is functioned to do different things, the heart also has different functions. Naturally, the heart likes to do dhikr, pray, be in the company of the pious etc. When we find that our heart is not doing what it's supposed to do, we should know it's a problem and try to rectify it.May Allah (SWT) give us the tawfiq to learn from these various narrations, and protect us from disobeying his ayaat and earning His wrath.

[ghumbasa]

Dangers of Riba(Usury) :

http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=40IoLkvNv8s

Riba is an Arabic noun derived from the verb Raba, meaning ‘to increase’, ‘to grow’, and ‘to exceed’. It includes interest which is paid by banks or on loans such as car loans, home loans or credit card debt.

“…Allah has permitted trade and has forbidden riba.”Qur’an 2:275


In the Qur’an, Allah does not declare war on anyone except those who deal in riba:


“O you who believe, fear Allah and give up what remains of your demand for riba, if you are indeed believers. If you do it not, take notice of war from Allah and His Messenger.”Qur’an 2:278-279


Would you like Allah, The Almighty, to wage war against you after He has made it abundantly clear that riba is haram?


The Prophet**warned that consuming riba is one of the seven sins that doom a person to Hell. (Bukhari and Muslim)


Riba is haram in all of its aspects, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) said (Muslim), “Allah has cursed the one who consumes riba, the one who gives it, the one who witnesses over it, and the one who writes down the transaction.”


Do not be of those whom Allah has cursed!



Whole nations, dozens of them, large and small, have foreign debts so large that their riba payments on these debts are a crushing burden on the entire country. Debt kills. Some 11 million children die each year around the world due to conditions of poverty and debt.*


Riba conflicts with the spirit of brotherhood and sympathy, and is based on greed, selfishness and hard heartedness.

Riba is one of the major contributors towards inflation.Riba causes trauma and depression due to mounting debts.

Riba is a sure gain without any possibility of loss, hence all the risk is taken by the borrower, rather than sharing the risk and the profits with both parties.Riba creates a monopoly in society, where the rich are rewarded for being wealthy, while those who are not are forced to pay extra!


Living in a capitalist society makes it difficult to completely avoid riba. However, this should not be used as an excuse to freely indulge in it. An obvious way to steer clear of this evil is to not take out a loan which involves paying riba. Other solutions include:


Opening up riba-free bank accounts.Not entering into contracts which stipulate riba penalties, even though one intends to pay on time.Making bill payments on time so as not incur a late penalty.Meeting any conditions required to continue trading without the use of riba.Borrowing money from family or friends where possible.Dealing with Islamically compliant banks.Renting if you cannot afford to buy a house without riba.Accepting/organising a “goodly loan” (al-qard al-hasanah), which is a loan by means of which one intends to show kindness to another, which does not involve taking riba.


With regard to the interest that the bank has given you, do not return nor consume it. Rather, spend it on charitable causes, such as giving it to the poor, buying disposable items (like toilet paper) for Islamic centres and mosques, and helping debtors. However, do not expect reward for this.


The most effective way to avoid riba and determine which transactions are permissible, is by consulting Islamic scholars and utilising their knowledge.


What if I’m desperate?


In Islam, one is forgiven for performing a forbidden act in times of desperation. Therefore, if one is forced to use riba, otherwise risk extreme hardship or death, it becomes temporarily permissible, until that hardship is overcome. Keep in mind that enduring the hardship caused by refraining from riba, for the sake of Allah, will gain reward. A person of Islamic knowledge and understanding of one’s personal situation, must be the one to determine if a person is indeed in difficulty. Otherwise, this exception to the rule may be taken advantage of, and many people may wrongly consume riba and suffer the consequences laid out by Allah.


There is a common misconception amongst Muslims with regards to buying a first house using riba. Some claim that it is permissible, a “necessity”. The fact that one can easily rent a house instead of buying, disproves this claim. If the theory were true, would that then mean that drinking the first bottle of alcohol is permissible, even though water is available? Or eating pork when there is a permissible substitute? While it may be easy to fool others into believing this, we must remember that:


“… Allah knows all that you reveal and all that you conceal.”Qur’an 5:99


Paying rent in order to support oneself and their family is not “wasted money”. InshaAllah, Allah the Most Appreciative, will reward this like charity: “When someone spends on his family seeking his reward for it from Allah, it is counted as a charity from him.”(Bukhari and Muslim)


None can doubt that riba is haram and a major sin, and no disobedience to Allah is worth the risk of His punishment. We must remember that the life of this world is short and fleeting, and that the purpose of our existence is not to lust after beauty and wealth, but rather to worship Allah correctly and live by His rules. Just because riba is widespread and common, it does not make it permissible.


“And whosoever fears Allah and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty), and will provide him sustenance from where he never even imagined. And whosoever puts his trust in Allah, Allah is sufficient for him.”Qur’an 65:2-3


Some ayahs about riba:*

“...but whoever returns (to dealing in riba), such are the dwellers of the Fire — they will abide therein.”Qur’an 2:275*


“…Allah has permitted trade and has forbidden riba.” - 2:275


“O you who believe, fear Allah and give up what remains of your demand for riba, if you are indeed believers. If you do it not, take notice of war from Allah and His Messenger.”Qur’an 2:278-279*


"Those who consume riba cannot stand (on the Day of Resurrection) except as one stands who is being beaten by Satan into insanity. That is because they say, ‘Trade is (just) like riba.’ But Allah has permitted trade and has forbidden riba...”Qur’an 2:275 -


"You who believe! Do not devour Riba (e.g. interest), making it double & redouble, and be careful of (your duty to) Allah, that you may be successful.”Qur’an 3:130


We are also shown how to be successful in the Hereafter:*


“The only saying of the faithful believers when they are called to Allah (His Words- the Qur’an) and His Messenger, to judge between them, is that they say: “We hear and we obey.” And such are the successful (who will live forever in Paradise).”Qur’an 24:51

[ghumbasa]

http://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=1A4-XTt5pSI