Seeking the highest guidance

does anybody still read this blog???

2012-01-05T21:40:00.000+02:00

Assalaamo alaikum wa Rahamatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

I am thinking of closing this blog. i do not have many topics and and not getting any comments so i really do not know if there is anyone reading my posts.
I am also do not have superb writing skills to make this blog very interesting. i do however, love to share what ever guidance i get from around me, from khutbas, books and discussions with friends.

My life is going through major changes and i do not wish to make this a blog discussing my life,

so to keep or not to keep.
Looking forward to your opinions and comments which i do miss.

Ma Salaam.

This is what I've been up to

2011-12-07T15:46:00.001+02:00

Here are some of the photos from my trip. I had the most enjoyable Hajj, Alhamdolillah. Hajj always has some hardships, even if u r travelling with the best groups available.
Alhamdolillah, The ladies that were in our tent were really good, the Muallims and muftis that were with us, and prepared us by giving taleem daily after Asr Salaah.

Well, enjoy!

Ma'Salaam

Interesting stuff

2011-09-04T22:07:00.003+02:00

Assalaamo Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Dear friends here is something interesting that I came across, and would like to share it with you,

Don’t let people’s compliments get to your head and don’t

let their criticisms get to your heart ♥

Eid Mubarak

2011-08-31T22:31:00.002+02:00

Assaalaamo Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Eid mubarak to you all.

We've had a day full of visitors coming and going, and lots of savoury n sweet things this Eid.

Hope you all also have a blessed n happy eid.

Ma'Salaam

Salat-ul Tasbeeh

2011-08-13T21:51:00.003+02:00

Assalaamo Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

First of all let me wish you all Ramadaan Mubarak, may Allah Guide you and shower his mercies on you all always.

I have heard of the merits of Salaatul tasbeeh, but was not sure how to perform it.

In my search i came up with two very informative websites that expalain things very nicely, instead of reproducing them here are the links

1.the merits of it

2. the method of reading it (and also here)

This Salaah does take a while to perform so make sure a makrooh time is not coming in when reading it. I read it just yesterday, and after completing it I felt a beautiful satisfation in my heart, I felt that I have offered something beautiful to Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala. The feeling is truly indescribable.

Hope you may also reap the rewards of this beautiful salaah this Ramadaan

Ma'Salaam & Enjoy your Ramadaan

Moon

Total lunar eclipse

2011-06-15T22:10:00.003+02:00

Assalaamo Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Today in Southern Africa we are witnessing a lunar eclipse. Right now as we speak the Moon has been totally covered by the shadow of the earth, and is no longer visible unless you know where the should be at this time.
This total lunar eclipse has occurred after 11years here in Africa.
The eclipse started at 20.23 Central African time, this is one of the longest eclipses, it reached total eclipse at 21.23 C.A.T and will end just after midnight.

This is a relatively rare central lunar eclipse where the center point of Earth's shadow passes across the Moon. The last time a lunar eclipse was closer to the center of the earth's shadow was on July 16, 2000. The next central total lunar eclipse will be on July 27, 2018.

The things todo on this night is to offer two rakaat Salaatul Khusuf,
Make abundant Istagfaar
Make Zikr
and Take out Sadaqah.

What is a Lunar Eclipse and how does it occur?

A LUNAR ECLIPSE occurs when the Moon passes into the shadow of the Earth, becoming dim until emerging from the shadow. Lunar eclipses may be partial or total, and they can
happen only at full Moon. Total lunar eclipses last for up to 100 minutes; the maximum number each year is three.

According to the majority of learned jurists, prayer(salaat) on the occasion of an eclipse is Sunnat.According to Abu Hanifa(R.A.) ,there are two rakaats of salaat for SOLAR ECLIPSE in congregation(jamaat) without any sermon(khutba),and two rakaats for LUNAR ECLIPSE without congregation.
According to Imaam Shafiee(R.A.),the salaat shall be said in congregation with a khutba(sermon).

Method of making this Salaah:

Salat al-kusoof (solar eclipse Prayer) is sunnah mu’akkadah (confirmed sunnah) for both male and female believers. It is better to offer it congregationally in the mosque. Its time is from the beginning of the eclipse till it clears away. There is no adhan for the Prayer, but it should be announced, as stated earlier, with “as-salatu jami`ah.”

According to the hadith, narrated by `A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her), salat al-kusoof is two rak`ahs; however, the worshiper bows twice in each rak`ah instead of once.

In the first rak`ah, after al-Fatihah, one recites a long or short surah. One then says “allahu akbar” and bows down in a long bowing. As one rises up, one says: “sami` Allahu liman hamidah, rabbana lakal-hamd.”

One then says “Allahu akbar” and bows down a second time but not so long. As one rises up one says, “sami` Allahu liman hamidah, rabbana lakal-hamd.”

As one resumes standing straight, one says “allahu akbar” and then falls down in prostration. One begins the second rak`ah by saying “allahu akbar” The second rak`ah should be observed like the first one. After the Prayer, the imam may give a guiding sermon.

Excerpted from: www.usc.edu

Sunnat of Miswak - the natural toothbrush

2011-06-14T22:18:00.004+02:00

Assalaamo alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Here is a short interesting video about the Miswak, how to use it, its benefits, and implementing the sunnat in our children

My Jummah message

2011-06-09T22:54:00.002+02:00

Assalaamo Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu

Jummah Mubarak to you all.

Almost every thursday night I get an Islamic sms from one of my friends.
The one I received today really touched my heart and I wanted to share it with you all.

"I cried because i had no shoes till I saw a man who had no feet." {sheikh Saadi}
Life is full of blessings, sometimes we r just too blind to see them.

The next time we begin to Complain, just remember this... Inshallah you will be thankful to Allah (SWT) for what you have.

Have a blessed n beautiful Jummah

Ma'Salaam
Moon

------------

I also have the following to share from an older message:

Hadrat Anas Radi ALLAH Taala Anhu reported that the Messenger of Allah Peace And Blessings Be Upon Him has said, “Everything has a heart, and the heart of the Qur’an is Yasin. Allah records anyone who recites Yasin as having recited the Qur’an ten times.”
[Sunan Tirmidhi, Vol 2, Page 116 - Sunan Daarimi, Vol 2, Page 336]

Q & A on newly weds

2011-05-05T22:40:00.002+02:00

Assalaamo Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

I just came across this video, and i would love to share it with you all.
This is such good advice for newly married men and women.

Enjoy!

Duaa for sleeping and waking

2011-05-04T22:43:00.001+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Juhaifa narrated, When the Prophet (S.A.W) went to bed, he used to say, "Allhumma bismika ahya wa amut." And when he got Up in the mornings he used to say, "Alhamdu lillahi al-ladhi ahyana ba'da ma amatana wa ilaihi-n-nushur." [Bukhari Vol 9, Book 93, No 491]

Status Update

2011-04-19T22:56:00.004+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullai wa Barakatuhu,

How are you all doing?

I have been away for quite a while, a lot has gone on in my life since july last year leaving me with hadly much time to blog. I do try and keep up with what ever i come across.

I also am quite blank on topics i should blog about, so if there is any topic you would like me to do a post on just comment below and let me know.

I have not blogged much about my personal life, but here is a small update.
I have recenty been on a holiday to hopefully find a mate, mostly through advertisements in the newspapers, as is common there.
well, i did get a few proposals... some were inconsiderable... they were just not my match, most of these my parents assessed before they got to me.
Then there was one perticular person my Father found interesting, and called him over to interview him. All looked good, the guy was well mannered, worked in the airline, had a good job, but was previously married and claimed it was over between his wife and him.
Upon meeting his family we found that he was not divorced, already was engaged to another girl, and also trying to Finalize with me.

I was lucky before i left for this trip, i met a friend and asked her about what to read when a proposal comes and you dont know what response to give. She advised me to keep on reciting the following:

ALLAHUMAKH - KHIRLEE WAKH TARLEE

As soon as i first met this Airline guy I started reading this duaa, and when we met his family a day later, they told us the truth about this guy, coz they felt they did not want to deceive anyone that asks about him.

Alhamdolillah, Allah is great, i was saved from a marriage and husband that would have been totally false and fake, and could deceive me at any point in the future.

I am still reciting this duaa, and the trip did not end up totally useless, i learnt a valuable lesson, only Allah Ta'ala knows about the unknown.
I also learnt the power of Duaa.

May Allah Ta'ala keep me, my family, my readers, those who want to be guided, and those who have been guided always on the right path, rightly Guided. Ameen Thumameen

Ma' Salaam

Allah Ta'ala's beautiful creatures

2011-02-28T22:35:00.003+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullai wa Barakatuhu,

Here are some photos I took of some amazing creatures that Allah Ta'aala has created - SubhanAllah!

The first one is a moth with triangles on its wings, and the second is a praying mantis resembling a leaf (found on our drive way)

Help needed to check the validity of a quotation

2011-02-17T22:25:00.003+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

I found the following quote on a couple of websites in june and blogged it, but i cannot find that website now. This quotation sound "right", but is it?
I have been asked these questions by someone passing thru by blog. Can anyone give me the exact narration of this hadith and where is it to be found.

Pixie, u r a lady who has more knowledge than I, plz help.

"A woman needs to be maintained financially, spiritually, morally, and above all intelletually because women are creatures of sound, and men are creatures of sight, and above all you must know the art of a relationship, is based upon communication" –Imam Malik

Ma' Salaam

I'm back with info about Zikr beads

2010-12-12T00:51:00.002+02:00

Assalaamo Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

I'm back after quite some time, i hope you all had a wonderful "Bakra Eid" and are still around reading my posts ;)

I got caught up with things happenening in my life, and am not sure for how long I can keep this blog moving, Inshallah I am trying as much as I can to keep it going.

The reason I made this blog was simply to guide others by the Guidance given to me by Allah Subhanhu wa Taala, and has been purely to provide Daawah in the way I know best, and I pray that Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala excepts this service from me, for He is the Most Forgiving, most Merciful.

Some people critisized me for using a zikr beeds (Tasbeeh), and this has been a great doubt in mind till today when I recieved the following from the JAmiat of South Africa, Inshallah If you are having the same doubts as I this will clear it up.

Question and Answer:
Q. Assalamu alaykum!!! I have the following question: Is it permissible to use a Tasbih for Zikr or is it (Tasbih) a Bid’ah?

(Grozny, Chechnya)

A. To use a Masbah (Tasbih, Rosary, beads) to make Zikr as a means of counting is not a Bid’ah. There are authentic reports that some of the companions of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) used to use beads to keep count of the amount of Zikr they used to do. In present times, the Tasbih or Masbah is common and holds the same purpose of beads. Hence, the same ruling will apply.

Allamah Suyuti (Rahimahullah) has mentioned in his book al-Minha fis- Subhah the incident of ‘Ikrimah (Rahimahullah), who had asked his teacher ‘Umar al-Maliki (Rahimahullah) about Zikr-beads. The latter replied that he had also asked about it his teacher Imam Hasan al-Basrî (Rahimahullah) who replied: “Something we have used at the beginning of the road we are not desirous to leave at the end. I love to remember Allah with my heart, my hand, and my tongue.”

On this, Allamah Suyuti comments: “And how should it be otherwise, when the Zikr-beads remind one of Allah Most High, and a person seldom sees Zikr-beads except he remembers Allah, which is among the greatest of its benefits.”

Abu Hurairah possessed a thread with two thousand knots and would not sleep until he had used it all for dhikr. (Narrated by Abu Nu‘aym in Hilyah, and az-Dhahabi in Siyar A’laamin Nubalaa’ and Tadhkirah) He said: “Verily, I glorify Allah (recite Subhanallah) everyday twelve thousand times.” (Narrated by Abu Nu‘aym in Hilyah, al-Bayhaqi in his Sunan, Ibn Hazm in al-Muhalla, Ibn al-Jawzi in Sifatus Safwah, az-Dhahabi in Siyar and Tadhkirat al-Huffaz, Ibn Rajab in Jami‘ al-‘Ulum wal-Hikam, and Ibn Hajar in the Isabah where he said that Ibn Sa‘d narrates it with a sound chain in his Tabaqat.)

Abu Dawood, Tirmizi, Nasaai, Ibn Hibbaan and Haakim have narrated from Sa’d Bin Abi Waqqaas that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) noticed some date-stones or pebbles placed in front of one his wives with which she was making Tasbeeh.

Abu Dawood and Haakim have narrated from Safiyya (Radiyallahu Anha) that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) came to her while she had heaped in front of her 4,000 date seeds. She was reciting Tasbeeh (Zikr) with the date seeds.

From the above mentioned narrations, it is evident that the use of Tasbih/beads is not a Bid’ah. Rather, it was the practice of senior Sahabah and Tabi-een to use beads to count when doing the Zikr of Allah.

And Allah Knows Best

Fatwa Department
Jamiatul Ulama (KZN)
Council of Muslim Theologians
223 Alpine Road, Overport, Durban
Tel : +27 (0) 31 2077099
Fax : +27(0) 31 2074163
Website : www.jamiat.org.za

EID MUBARAK!!!

2010-09-11T23:14:00.000+02:00

Eid Mubarak to all my readers!

May Allah Ta'ala shower you with his blessing and guide you to the staright path!
Ameen

Duaa for Laylatul-Qadr

2010-09-02T17:01:00.001+02:00

*Duaa for Laylatul-Qadr (The Night of Power)*

It is reported that Aisha (radhi Allahu `anha) said: “O Messenger of Allah! What if I knew which night Lailatul-Qadr was, then what should I say in it?”

He [salalahu alayhi wa salam] said, “Say: [Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘annee -O Allah, you are the One who grants pardon for sins. You love to pardon so pardon me](at-Tirmithi)

The last 9 days of Ramadaan

2010-09-01T07:43:00.001+02:00

Assalaamu alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Ramadaan is almost over and it feels like i haven't done all the ibadat that i could possibly done.
Thankfully Allah has created the last 10 nights of Ramadaan to be vey special. Within these nights are the great odd nights, that means the nights of the 21st, 23rd, 25th,27, 29th nights any one out of these nights could be the night of power, LAYLATUL QADR.
What is Laylatul Qadr?
Its a night better than a 1000 nights of ibadat (worship) put together. Imagine the rewards reaped on this night if spent in Worship of Allah! (For refernce read surah QADR surah 97 with translation.)

Lets not let this great opportunity go to waste. Let us use every night and reap the maximum benefit from it.

For those ladies who r havin haidh (that time of month), do not worry, if u spend this time in just doing Zikr and reading Tasbeeh, inshallah you will also be rewarded the same as the intention in your hearts.

Ma' Salaam

Ramadaan Mubarak!!!

2010-08-20T23:10:00.002+02:00

Assalaamu ALaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Ramadaan Mubarak everyone!

This year the days and months are passing at the speed of light.
Ramadaan is already upon us, and once more the doors of Mercy have opened for us.

Let us take this precious time to ask for forgiveness for our sins, both known to us and those that we have done unknowingly.
Another thing to ask Allah Taala during this month is refuge from the Fire of Hell.

Allah's messenger (pbuh) says, Allah, the Almighty has said: "Every act of man is for him except fasting, it is done for My (Allah's) sake and I will give reward for it. The breath of a faster is sweeter to Allah than the fragrance of musk."

Fasting makes us feel thankful for every morcel of food that Allah provides for us, and the sweetness of water that Allah has provided us to drink despite the number of our sins.
Here is a duaa we can recite after drinking water

Inshallah i will post more time permitting,

I wish all of you a Ramadaan full of Barakah, and may Allah Ta'ala keep us on the right path even after Ramadaan is over. Ameen Summ Ameen

"reminders"

2010-06-11T15:49:00.001+02:00

"A woman needs to be maintained financially, spiritually, morally, and above all intelletually because women are creatures of sound, and men are creatures of sight, and above all you must know the art of a relationship, is based upon communication" –Imam Malik

Official Muslim Response to "Draw Muhammad Day" By Abdallah Salhia SFAproductions

2010-05-20T19:36:00.000+02:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Z1l7QAMGuA

Hardships, illness and troubles are blessings in disguise

2010-04-16T21:09:00.002+02:00

Bismillah,

Abu Hurayrah radi Allahu anhu reported that the Prophet said: “Hardships continue to befall a believing man and woman in their body, family, and property, until they meet Allah Subhanahu ta’ala burdened with no sins.” [Tirmithee]

Consequences of withdrawing from the remembering Allah Ta'ala.

2010-03-22T06:31:00.000+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Here is some food for thought, may Allah give us the guidance never to leave the remembrance of Him.

If anyone withdraws himself from remembrance of The Most Gracious, we appoint for him a Satan, to be an intimate companion to him.

Such (Satans) really hinder them from the Path, but they think that they are being guided aright!

Quraan S.43 v36 & 37

I'm Back!!! & a Duaa

2010-03-20T06:28:00.004+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

I am back from my Long holiday, Alhamdolillah had a very nice time, attended 2 weddings, and enjoyed myself thoroughly!Now Inshallah i'm back to my blogging.
I will tell more of my travels soon,

Here is a short Duaa:
“O Allaah! I ask You for guidance, piety, safety and well-being, and contentment and sufficiency.” (Allaahummaa innee as’alukal-hudaa wat-tuqaa wal-`afaafa wal-ghinaa).[Related by Muslim, no 2721]

Wedding Season!!!

2010-01-09T23:06:00.002+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullhi waBarakatuhu,

The december holiday season seems to spark a chain reaction of weddings in the asian Region.

There are lots of weddings coming up in my family too and Inshallah I'll be able to attend a couple of these this year.

I was looking at a lot of make up looks that are relatively easy to do, and here is one that I found that looks really stunning.

http://utopianvision.co.uk/bollywood/videos/?v=4_FvFdDX9b4

Would you do this look?

or would you prefer this one?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OKYYZM0J3M&feature=related

Sorry i haven't posted any of your comments as they seem to appear in chinese.... i don't know which ones are from my readers and which of them are spam...

Watch out for these HARAAM ingredients!!!

2009-12-21T23:19:00.004+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

I just came across the following ingredients that are HARAAM! Please watch out for them in your food stuff as well as in Make up products!

CARMINE
COCHINEAL
NATURAL RED 4
C.I.
CL 75470
E120

This is a red colouring that is derived from the blood of an insect. You may ask me why is it Haraam, well, the following verse explains this:

“He hath forbidden you only carrion, and blood, and swineflesh, and that which hath been immolated to (the name of) any other than Allah. But he who is driven by necessity, neither craving nor transgressing, it is no sin for him. Lo! Allah is Forgiving, Merciful” (2:173).

Hope this helps you when there is no stamp of a Halaal authority on a product you want to buy!

Ma' Salaam!

Blogger not working properly :(

2009-12-09T09:59:00.006+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Today I finally got a chance to access my computer and put up some pics from Eid and Hajj, but sadly Blogger won't upload the photos :(

I don't have the patience to try again now, so will try later inshallah.

Hope i haven't missed any comments due to problems with my blog...

Take care

Ma' Salaam

I'm back! N i bring u memoirs of my Hajj!

2009-11-26T23:00:00.001+02:00

Assalaamu alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

I want to wish you all Eid Mubarak in advance,as inshallah we shall be having eid here tomorrow 27th November, just as it is in Saudi Arabia.

I went for Hajj about 6 years ago, and it was truly marvelous, and with it came lots of lessons of patience and tolerance of other people and their habbits.

My journey started of on the 6th of zil Hijj when we arrived in Makkah directly in the late afternoon. We rested in our room for a few minutes and then went out for our first Umrah, as we had already put on our ehram at the start of the journey. After we had finished our Umrah we slept for the night, and the next day our group was shifted to the tent city in Mina (pics following soon inshallah) we spent the 7th &8th in Mina and in the night of the 8th we moved to the make shift tents of Arafat, these tents did not have tje luxury of the air conditioners of Mina, but we were ther for devotion and not comfort.. We made lots of Ibaadat there consisting of Nafl Salaah and lots of Quraan recitation and lots of duaas. We heard the khutbah at zohr from our tents, then stayed there till sunset, after which we were sorted into groups again to go to Muzdalifa. The mountain side where we were to spend the night (no tents here), collect stones to pelt the Shayateen, and move back after Salaah fajr on morning of the 10th back to Mina. We pelted the Shayateen late Asr time as the crowd was relatively less at that time and then went back to Makkah to complete the Hajj by doing Tawaaf and performing the Saee (running between mount Safaa and Mount Marwaa), and finishing with the men shaving their heads and the ladies trimming their hair.

After this was done, and our camel was slaughtered (the next day) we had Camel Biriyaani for lunch. I must say it was pretty Yummy, although camel meat does not taste like camel meat at all!

Right now you can watch a live broadcast of the hajj on aswatalislam website.

if u know of any other site broadcasting live let me know.
Jazakallah.

Ma Salaam.

THE ARRIVALS

2009-10-04T10:18:00.004+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

I was just wondering how many of you have watched the arrivals as a movie or on youtube and am wondering what you think about it.
If you haven't it's a good watch, but am wonderin how much of it is actually sci- fi and how much is reality. have a look and let me know what u think.

here's the link for the first part.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YaqybvymYIE&feature=related

EID MUBARAK!!!

2009-09-24T17:04:00.002+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Wishing all my fellow bloggers and Muslim Blog readers a very happy and blessed Eid Mubarak!

Things to know about fasting

2009-08-23T23:43:00.005+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

I'd like to share with you some important information that i came across about fasting that every Muslim should know.
This is a just a little bit of information, inshallah I will post up some more info soon.

1) Fasting is compulsary for the following persons;
a)A muslim
b)who is sane
c)who has reached the age of puberty.
d)Who is healthy
e)who is able to fast
f)who is residing (not on a journey)
g) in the case of a female, she should be free from Haydd (monthly Period) and
Nifaas (menstruating after childbirth)

2) Niyyah (intention) is a required condition in fard (obligatory) fasts, and in other obligatory fasts such as making up missed fasts or fasts done as an act of expiation (kafaarah), because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "There is no fast for the person who did not intend to fast from the night before." (Reported by Abu Dawood, no. 2454.)

3) Things that invalidate the fast ( MUF'TIRAAT) are:
a)Whatever enters the hollow. thus whatever passes the throat invalidates the fast, or when a person puts drops in his nose or ears or places a bud or something similar behind his eardrums. Also if a person puts his finger or anything in his anus, or when a doctor places any instrument in the womb to examine the fetus, then also the fast becomes invalidated.

b)To vomit intensionally or deliberately

c)Sexual intercourse or when/ sperm are discharged intensionally & masterbation (see here )

d)the occurence of Haydd or Nifaas

e) madness

4) the following do not invalidate the fast;

a) Involuntary vomiting

b) having a wet dream

c) Brushing teeth even with toothpaste as long as it is not swallowed ( but it is better not to use it)

d)Applying hair Oil and perfume

e) Tasing food (not swallowing it)

5) Performing Taraweeh: It is sunnah to perform 20 RAkaah Taraweeh and it is recommended to complete the Quraan during taraweeh within the month of Ramadaan before the 29th of Ramadaan. Taraweeh is also called Salaatul- Qiyaam. Below is a duaa to be read after every four rakaats during the taraweeh.

This is it for tonight i am off to bed now, just have 3hrs till sahoor. Inshallah will post some more soon.

Ma' Salaam

Ramadaan Mubarak!!!

2009-08-23T23:32:00.003+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Ramadaan Mubarak!!!

2009-08-18T21:44:00.003+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Sorry! I've been missing for more than a month now!
I feel really bad for not posting anything lately.

I've just been "burried" under loads of work, and come back home most days to find visitors at home so have to help my mom with preparing the dinner, and clearing it all up after guests have left, and i have no energy left.

What scares me is that Ramadaan is just round the corner, and i'm not prepared. I can see Ramadaan going by in the same way. I just Make duaa that I can finish the Quraan this year in the holy month. Please remember me in your Duaas

I know some of you may start fasting on Thursday or friday, here it's either Friday or Saturday.

May Allah accept our fasts, good deeds and Duaas.

Wishing you all Ramadaan Mubarak, May Allah Guide you and make the fasts easy for you. Ameen Sumameen.

The month of Rajab

2009-07-08T16:22:00.005+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

We are already halfway trough the month of Rajab, none the less, the information about this month is important to all Muslims.

Rajab, being the seventh month of the Islamic calendar is a stepping
stone to the auspicious months of Shabaan and Ramadaan. Rajab is
from the Ashur Hurum (Sacred months), one of four such months in
which battles were prohibited. When the moon of Rajab was sighted
Rasulullah (sallallaahu alayhi wasallam) would recite the following
Duá:

“Allahumma baarik lana fee rajaba wa sha'bana wa ballighna ramadaan”
“Oh Allah! grant us blessings in the month of Rajab and Shabaan, and
make us reach the month of Ramadhaan”
(Shu'abul-Imaan & Ibnus Sunni)

This Dua should be recited regularly in the month of Rajab and
Shabaan. In preparation for Ramadaan, the relevance of Rajab maybe
understood as the month to sow seeds (good actions), Shabaan is the
month in which we should water those seeds (with tears of remorse)
and Ramadaan is the month in which we reap the harvest.

Whilst the arrival of Ramadaan is certain, no person is guaranteed
reaching Ramadaan. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) would
express his eagerness to be blessed with the month of Ramadaan from
Rajab. We should therefore become more inclined towards virtuous
deeds and Ibaadat in these months.
May Allah Ta’aala let us all reach Ramadaan and grant us the ability to
spend it in a manner that is most pleasing to Him. Aameen.

Blog Updates?

2009-07-05T23:09:00.000+02:00

Assalaamu alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Dear sisters i'm havin trouble followin ur blogs and commenting on them. Two of my fav blogs i am not getting updates for. I don't know if it's my browser or blogger, thats causin this i hope it shows up soon.

Sister Pixie from i love hishma, i can only see the post of 'an unwanted apprentice' and sis Hebayeb the last one is the one on beautiful Calligraphy.

I'm really missin ur blogs.

To the other sisters, i'm readin ur blogs whenever i have a chance, but sometimes am not able to comment!

Love you all for the sake of Allah!

The manner of greeting

2009-06-28T07:02:00.002+02:00

Assalaamu alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

When a greeting is offered to you, meet it with a greeting more courteous, or at least of equal courtesy. Allah takes account of all things.

Quraan S. 4 V.86

The Decline of a nation

2009-06-22T22:33:00.004+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

It has been narrated by Abu Hurairah (Radiallahu anhu) that Rasoolullah (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) said: "When my followers will begin to adore the worldly benefits, their hearts will be deprived of the importance of Islam; and when they stop enjoining the good and forbidding evil, they will be deprived of the blessing of the revelation (the Quran); and when they will abuse each other, they will fall from the esteem of Allah Ta'ala."

Lesson: The meaning of this Hadith is as clear as daylight. Is it any wonder the Ummah is where it is? Can we seriously blame anyone else for our plight?

Saved from impulsive buying!!!

2009-06-09T17:39:00.003+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

I almost bought something that i didn't need. A lovely pair of sweat pants!!!
I saw this lovely pair that i really wanted, but not needed, and as I was standing in the queue to pay for them, and then it hit me that i already had lots of pants that i could use as substitutes for them, and that it would be more worth while if i spent that money on donations for something more useful such as a blanket for a poor family who might need it during this winter season. I turned right back put the sweat Pants back and walked out of the store feeling very very happy, Alhamdo lillah!!

just this little bit from me today!

Ma' Salaama

Some Advise needed!!

2009-06-01T22:32:00.003+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

A few months ago I joined up with a group of Muslim girls that were combining Islamic Teachings with "fun" things girls could do. in this group there was one senior lady who overlooked the activities of these girls. At first it all seemed like a really great idea and most girls would pitch up only when there was something big going on like a tea or a themed party.

This carried on for sometime, and the girls somewhat stayed on track. one day they teamed up with the muslim Boys group and decided to have a joint party, but they agreed to have separate halls. This is when i started to pull out of their group and not associating with them.
Now decided to permanently join the boys group, they have meeting with them etc. (which i consider to be totally haram as i don't see them do it for a worthy cause)

Just a day ago they have asked me to do an article for their "joint" Newsletter, and I have turned them down coz i didn't want feel like supporting this group, as i see them doing wrong! But at the same time I want to guide them back to how they were...

Am I over reacting or am I simply not supporting them.
What do u guys think I should do?

The 99 Names of Prophet Muhammed (Peace be Upon Him)

2009-05-25T06:59:00.005+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Below are the 99 names of the Prophet Mohammad (Peace be Upon Him).
I recently came across them and decided to share them with you.

A seventeenth-century Suhrawardi mystic of Ucch (Pakistan) composed a work called Jawahir al-Awliya (Jewels of the Saints), that contains an interesting chapter on the virtues and blessing powers of Sarkar-e-Madina Hadrat Muhammad's (Salla Allahu ta'ala alayhi wa Sallam) ninety-nine names. The author recounts various traditions connected with their use. Hadrat Ghawth al-A'zam, Sultan al Awliya - the King of Saints, Shaykh Abd'al-Qadir Jilani (Radi Allahu ta'ala anhu) is reported to have said that a person who recites them once every day and every night will be preserved from all kinds of affliction, and his faith will always remain undisturbed.

According to the author's ancestor, Hadrat Makhdoom Jahaniyan (Rehmatullahi ta'ala alaih) of Ucch, the recitation of these names after the dawn (fajr) prayer will cause all sins, great and small, open and secret, to be forgiven, and Hadrat Sultan Sayyad Mahmood Nasiruddin Bukhari (Rehmatullahi ta'ala alaih) is reported to have said that whoever recites them seven times after the noon (zuhar) prayer will never be harassed by birds or beasts. Another Sufi ascribed to their elevenfold recitation after the evening prayer an increase in knowledge, mildness, and gnosis.

But the greatest reward, for someone who recites Hadrat Nabi-e-Kareem Muhammad's (Salla Allahu ta'ala alayhi wa Sallam) ninety-nine names twelve times after the night (isha) prayer, was revealed to Makhdoom Jahaniyan by the Most Beloved Prophet (Salla Allahu ta'ala alayhi wa Sallam) himself during that Sufi's visit to Madinah Munnwarra : Sayyadina Hadrat Muhammad (Salla Allahu ta'ala alayhi wa Sallam) promised that he would definitely bring that person to Paradise, and would not enter it without him.

Note: The manner of reciting the noble names is as such you recite sayyiduna then the name and finish with sallallahu alayhi wa sallam, for example (Sayyiduna Muhammad sallallahu alayhi wa sallam, Sayyiduna Ahmad sallallahu alayhi wa sallam, Sayyiduna Hamid sallallahu alayhi wa sallam, Sayyiduna Mahmud sallallahu alayhi wa sallam etc).

Asma-e-Muhammad (saw): Beautiful names of Holy Prophet Muhammad al-Mustafa (pbuh)

Here is a list of 99 beautiful names of Holy Prophet Muhammad al-Mustafa (pbuh) with their meanings in English

Here is a video also

I feel i'm missing out....

2009-05-12T22:01:00.002+02:00

Assalaamu-Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

I'm going to appologize to u all, i have not been on blogger for more than two weeks... I think the last time was during my last post.

I am so Missing you all so much, missing reading my fellow bloggers blogs... but I've been over exhausted for a long time now, i feel like quitting my job, but i can't at the moment. I needed a bit of a breather.

I am trying to work something out, to take out some time for bloggin. Inshallah will be back in action soon... Keep me in ur duaas!

Moon

What are the Illiyin and the Sijjin?

2009-04-27T06:42:00.002+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

All the deeds that we do are recorded in 'registers' by angels appointed to be with us all the time. They record all our deeds, good and bad.
The illiyun is the record of deeds of the good people that will be presented to Allah Ta'ala on the day of judgement and the Sijjin is the record of deeds of the wicked. Ref S83 v18-20 and S83 v 7-9 respectively.

Then he who is given his record in his right hand
Soon will his account be taken by easy reckoning
And he will turn to his people rejoicing!
But he who is given his record behind his back
Soon will he enter perdition
And he will enter a Blazing Fire.
S 84 v 7-12

Turkish Hijaab

2009-04-08T23:32:00.003+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullhi wa Barakatuhu,

I love the stunning look of Turkish Hijaabs and wondered how they actually got it to look so smooth underneath, so i came across the following blog which shows it so beautifully!

here's the link http://hijabella.wordpress.com/2009/03/27/how-to-wear-the-turkish-hijab-video

Do u like the turkish hijaab?

A random thought - One Ummah

2009-03-31T15:31:00.004+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Today certain events happened that actually made me look at the country I live in and I realized just how much racism there actually is, even though people try to cover it up, it shows up.
Then my thoughts turned in a different direction, and I began thinking how lucky we are to be Muslims, and how good our religion actually is as there is no discrimination according to the colour of our skins, but only according to our deeds in this dunya.

Anyways, that actually led me to think that if there is no racial discrimination in our hearts, and if we choose spouse who may be of a different race (but still Muslim!), and this would continue throughout our future generations, then we would probably ALL be the same colour!
The only thing that would determine how good or how bad we are would be only our deeds.

Thinking further on this topic reminds me of the fact that Hazrat Bilal (Radiallahu Anhu) or Bilal Ibn Rabah was the First Muazzin who was "Black" and yet his Azaan was the most beautiful Azaan ever. He had so much power and emotion in his voice that people were awed at his azaan calling. When he newly accepted Islam, his master was so furious he made him lie on hot pebbles and place a rock on his chest and pressed it until he would deny Islam. Yet Hazrat Bilal (RA) kept true to his word and kept repeating “Absolute Oneness.” He was amongst the loyal and will always be remembered for his bravery.

feeling positive even in a bad situation

2009-03-09T23:27:00.003+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Today the day started on a fairly positive note, alhamdolillah, but during the day there has been this one incident at work, that made me feel really angry and depressed, well more angry than depressed. I have this co-worker that i've been doing favours for and when i asked for a favour a couple of days ago he was sayin 'Ya sure, inshallah" ... and today i asked him have you done it i needed it today? he replies "what did u ask me to do?" URGGHHHH!!!!

I feel so Angry, coz he used me... and shaytaan is using my anger to get the better of me, but Alhamdolillah Allah guided me just in time and i ended up finding this article on feeling poitive, and seeing the whole situation from a whole new point of view.

When people hurt us, a natural sense of isolation begins to occur. Sometimes there are people that continue to make you miserable and they criticize you, humiliate you, abuse you, and generally make you feel bad. Ultimately, you begin to ignore them and look for an escape, but the feelings stay with you. Common advice is to be positive, but how can you forgive and forget when you begin to feel negatively about yourself and people around you? Where we focus is the problem. When trying to get over a hurtful situation, we tend to focus on that issue and think of nothing else. What one needs to do is widen their focus and remember that there are many other things in life. There are family members, friends, children, etc.

Just remember, you are not the one that should be pitied. The person who hurt you is. They have lost friendship with you by their own action, which makes them one-step closer to loneliness. As you begin to realize what your antagonist lost by hurting you, you will begin to feel badly for them. Quite the turn around. Positive thinking includes believing in you. When someone hurts you, you must allow yourself to believe they just do not know what they are doing.Your negativity fades and you start feeling positive. Your misery will disappear, and you begin to feel good about yourself again. Positive belief and positive suggestion in yourself will allow you to heal your hurts that much quicker. Besides, who wants such a negative person in their life anyway?

Taken from here

Here's another way to be positive about the future

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:
Paper
Pen
Quiet space

Step1 Begin by finding a quiet place where you can think and really listen to your inner thoughts. I thinks it's best to sit outside or in your favorite room of the house.

Step2 Now grab your paper and pen and write out the following:
Where do I want to be in five years?
What places do I wish to see this year?
What Surah makes me feel good and happy?
What foods do I enjoy that make me feel my best?
What is the single most important thing in my life right now?
What do I love about myself and why?
Do I have enough time for me in the day?
Do I accomplish the things I long to complete everyday?
Is there something that I want to change about my life?
Have I given up on any goals of mine that meant a lot to me?

Step3 Now you must answer these questions as honestly as you can and then take your answers to heart. You must know who you truly are before you can think positively of yourself. If you have something that you wish to change, then commit yourself to changing. If you want to see some places this year, you must try and go. These questions are designed to help you understand what makes you the happiest and what doesn't. You should splendor in the happy and change the unhappy. It's now up to you, and the more you know of you, the happier and more positive your life will be!

Hope these articles help you too.
How do you keep yourselves positive?

Swallowing Anger

2009-03-05T07:38:00.001+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullhi wa Barakatuhu,

It is narrated on the authority of Abdullah ibn Umar (Radiyallahu Anhu)
that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said; “There is no swallow more virtuous in the eyes of Allah than a person swallowing his anger for the pleasure of Allah”

(Musnad Ahmed, Hadith #: 128)

Lesson: The person who supresses his anger and maintains his calm solely for the pleasure of Allah is highly rewarded and earns the pleasure of Allah.

Merits of Friday

2009-02-27T06:23:00.002+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikumwa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

What is the merit of Friday over other days ? and why ?

Answer:Praise be to Allaah.

Friday has many distinguishing features and virtues that Allaah has bestowed upon this day and not others.
It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah and Hudhayfah (may Allaah be pleased with them) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Allaah led those who came before us away from Friday. The Jews had Saturday, and the Christians had Sunday. Then Allaah brought us and Allaah guided us to Friday. So there is Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and thus they will follow us on the Day of Resurrection. We are the last of the people of this world but we will be the first on the Day of Resurrection, and we will be dealt with before all others.”

(Narrated by Muslim, 856.)

MIA

2009-02-24T06:51:00.002+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikumwa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

I have been away for quite a while now and am missing blogging quite a bit.
Ishallah in a few weeks I'll begin blogging again.

In the meantime, i found an interesting site with lots of different topics in it while searching for an islamic internet radio. Have a look...
www.jannah.org.

Love you all for the sake of Allah!

Ma Salaama

I've got a Tag!!!

2009-02-09T08:00:00.000+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Here are my favourites :) in some cases there are more than one :P

Favorite color: Lilac

Favorite perfume (guys): Davidoff & CK

Favorite perfume (girls): Deci Dela & J'Adore

Pj brand: My Mom's experimental Pj's ;)

Any Favorite clothes brand in general: No brand just something that looks good on me, Although i always wear a Black Abaya when going out...

Favorite person in the entire world: definitely My sister :)

Favorite country: Switzerland...

Favorite car: Any sports car, the faster the better ;).

Favorite sport: fencing

Favorite sport player/fighter: None

Favorite spot in Southern Africa: God's Window on the Garden route! Breathtaking views!

Favorite animal: i don't have a pet, but it'd have to be a cat, they're sooo cute!

Favorite movie (Indian): Bhagbaan.

Favorite movie (American): Can't think of one.... don't watch many movies

Favorite singer: Junaid Jamshed, Love his tranformation to a practising Muslim, an like his new Nasheeds.

Favorite day in the week: Friday

Favorite time of the day: NIght coz i get to sleep :)

Favorite holiday season: Eid ul Adha

Favorite number: 7

Favorite food: Quiche

Favorite chocolate: Lindt, Catbury, & Hursheys (do they make them anymore?)Any choc witout coconut or pineapple in it.

Favorite cartoon: Gotta be the Road Runner & Loony toons

Favorite blogger: I love all my sisters blogs, and some more that i have to still add to my list...

Favorite Flavor Ice Cream: Chocolate.

Mobile Brand: Samsung!

Favorite name (girl): Yasmin

Favorite name (boy): Zakaria

Favorite hobby: Crocheting

Favorite room in my house: my bedroom.

Favorite Fruit: Mango.

Favourite flower: birds of paradise & Aram Lillies

Favourite Ayah from the Qu'ran: Ayatul Kursi "the Verse of the Throne" Verse 225 of Surah Baqarah, the Second Surah

My Favourite DRINK: Coffee & Milo

AND Now i Tag the following, you have to add a new favourite of your own...I tag Hal786, Ameena, Farhana, A Muslim Wife, Aalia, Ange, Habayeb , Uni , nafs al-mutmaina, & Crafty Muslimah

A tag And an Award!!!!

2009-02-09T07:00:00.000+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Here it finally is!!! It's taken me a couple of days to get these two posts up, as i'm getting no time to blog from work, and just get a bit of time each night to work a bit on it in bits and pieces.

I've been Tagged and Awarded for the coolest blog ever!!! Alhamdo lillah and Jazakallah to My dear sisters Mina and Pixie from Beautiful Muslimah, respectively!

Okay first with the Coolest Blog Award, I have to pass it onto 10 other sisters who have the cool blogs.... This is sooooo tuff as everyone has good stuff on their blogs!!! :)

First award goes to Pixie of Beautiful Muslimah. I stumbled across her blog more than a year ago, and it was one of the most interesting and informative Islamic blog i had come across, with lots n lots of good stuff on it!

2nd award has to go to Sister "N" of Awakened by truth. I was inspired by her to start bloggin :D

3rd & 4th have to go to Ange of Hegab-Rehab & Mama I married a Masri, the mad whack girl from down under - u make me laugh!!!

5th goes to Washi of Crafty muslimah my fellow blogger from SA

6th for Umm Tavis of Ignite the light within - enlightens me from within :) I pray you meet up with your son soon inshallah.

7th goes to Lazeena of is there food on my Niqaab - sis I luv ur blogs

8th is for Umm Hassan I simply love this sisters blog.

9th for Come share my thoughts on day to day challenges - for all the mouthwatering lovely recipes - YUMM

10th is for Aalia of Chasing Jannah - A lovely, brave Canadian sis.

Feeling a bit better AlhamdoLillah!

2009-01-27T23:03:00.005+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Jazallah all for you duaas, Alhamdo Lillah am feeling a bit better :)

Just a random thot crossed my mind and i had to share :D
There's a new social networking application *inspired by a niqaabi* have a look at the picture below ;)

A rough patch

2009-01-18T23:25:00.003+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Dear friends i ask you all to remember me in ur duaas. I'm going thru quite a rough patch in my life right now, but when i look at it it's nothing compared to the lives our fellow brothers and sisters are going thru in Gaza.

I'll be away for sometime yet to come, inshallah as things get better, i'll be posting again.

I leave you all with this duaa. 'Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi Rajeoon, Allahumma ajirni fi museebati wakh lufli khairun minha.'

To Allah We belong, and to Him is our return, O Allah in place of this suffering give me something better in exchange. Ameen.

Worldwide protests in pictures

2009-01-07T10:37:00.003+02:00

Poll:Does Israel have the right to invade the Gaza Strip?

2009-01-04T18:58:00.003+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa RAhmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Please cast your votes on the following page!
more people are in support of Israel invading Gaza!!!!

http://www.thetimes.co.za/home.aspx

Jazakallah Khair!

Gaza update : ABC News

2009-01-03T10:22:00.002+02:00

...Jawaher Hajji, a 14-year-old U.S. citizen who was allowed to cross into Israel, said her uncle was one of them — killed while trying to pick up some medicine for her cancer-stricken father. She said her father later died of his illness.

"They are supposed to destroy just the Hamas, but people in their homes are dying too," Hajji, who has relatives in Virginia, said at the Erez border crossing between Gaza and Israel.

President George W. Bush on Friday branded the Hamas rocket attacks an "act of terror," while Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice accused Hamas' leaders of holding the people of Gaza hostage.

"The Hamas has used Gaza as a launching pad for rockets against Israeli cities, and has contributed deeply to a very bad daily life for the Palestinian people in Gaza and to a humanitarian situation that we have all been trying to address," she said. International calls for a cease-fire have been growing, and French President Nicolas Sarkozy is expected in the region next week.

Bush said no peace deal would be acceptable without monitoring to halt the flow of smuggled weapons to terrorist groups.

....
http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory?id=6568961

Welcoming in the new muslim year.

2008-12-30T05:35:00.005+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Although this new year hasn't started on a good note for us muslims, as a result of the ongoing airstrikes on Gaza have left hundreds of muslims dead, there are ways in which we as individuals can help ourselves to improve. If we follow these few simple things we can avoid violence and crimes against other people, be them muslim or not.

I pray that Allah S.W.T Stops the violence in the Gaza soon. Ameen.
So far more than 270 muslims killed compared to only 4 on the Israeli side!!! and the air strikes are still ongoing!!! PLZ STOP this Massacre of innocent people!!!

The latest headlines on CNN as follows:

Gaza relief boat 'rammed' by Israeli vessel

An Israeli patrol boat struck a boat carrying doctors and supplies to Gaza early today in the Mediterranean Sea, witnesses and Israeli officials said. CNN correspondent Karl Penhaul was aboard the 60-foot Dignity when the boats collided. It was "very severely rammed" by the Israeli boat, Penhaul said. Also on the Dignity were several human rights activists, including former U.S. Rep. Cynthia McKinney. full story

This is terrorism!!!

On a lighter note, the following are verses from the Quraan, if followed by any nation(esp the Israelis at this time), will bring peace Inshallah!

In the Quraan Surah 49 v 11 and 12 we are told as follows;

O ye who believe! Let not some men among you laugh at others:
It may be that the latter are better than the former:
Nor let some women laugh at others:
It may be that the latter are better than the former:
Nor defame nor be sarcastic to each other,
Nor call each other by (offensive) nicknames:
...

V12
O we who believe! Avoid suspicion as much as possible: for suspicion in some cases is a sin:
And spy not on each other,
Nor speak ill of each other behind their backs. Would any of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? Nay, ye would abhor it ... But Fear Allah:
For Allah is Oft- Returning, Most Merciful.

Wa'salaam.

Odd proposals

2008-12-21T23:04:00.004+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Today i'll be ranting a bit. I've been gettin some odd proposals from guys who're already married and have kids, and when i ask them why they're considering taking a second wife, none of them seems to give me a straight answer, instead they just change the topic and or walk off.

I know i'm 30 and divorced. But does that mean i qualify only to be a second wife. Those that are single won't even consider me. I'm really upset...
Am i being unrealistic?

Have any of you been thru the same? And
On what conditions would you agree to be a second wife?

crochet necklace!!!

2008-12-21T09:34:00.001+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Here is an easy and beautiful crochet necklace :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZMh1YqX8GE&feature=related

Do Good Deeds Relieve the Pain of Calamities?

2008-12-17T10:55:00.001+02:00

	Name of Questioner	MA - Canada
	Title	Do Good Deeds Relieve the Pain of Calamities?
	Question	As-salamu `alaykum. Can any of our good deeds eliminate or reduce the degree of calamities? Please explain.
	Date	20/Nov/2008
	Name of Mufti	Muzammil Siddiqi
	Topic	Morals & Manners, Dhikr & Supplication

Wa `alaykum as-salamu wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.

In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear brother in Islam, thanks for your interesting question. May Allah Almighty guide us all to the straight path of Islam.

It should be clear that doing good, helping others in distress, observing the religious duties, etc., bring about Allah's mercy and help. So, it is one of Allah's favors and blessings that He helps good people when they are in need or distress.

In his response to your question, Dr. Muzammil H. Siddiqi, President of the Fiqh Council of North America, stated,

Yes, indeed, good deeds, especially the deeds of charity, are very good in removing calamities and difficulties.

Allah has promised in the Qur'an that He will bless those who have faith and do righteous deeds both in this life and in the life to come.

Likewise, Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) described three people who took shelter in a cave at night and in the morning they saw a big stone that blocked the mouth of the cave. They were in great distress and feared that they would die inside the cave. They then prayed to Allah and each person remembered some good deeds that he did. They prayed to Allah to bless them, because they did those deeds only for His sake. The hadith says that at every mention of a good deed, they saw that the stone was moving a bit until it finally moved enough for them to get out of the cave.

This is a beautiful illustration of the efficacy of good actions in bringing the mercy of Allah.

Taken from here

Bush and the flying shoes!

2008-12-15T10:26:00.002+02:00

What is Qurbaani?

2008-12-14T10:36:00.003+02:00

Qurbani during Eid-ul Adha is an act to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice as mentioned in the Quraan.

And, when he (his son) was old enough to walk with him, he said: "O my son! I have seen in a dream that I am slaughtering you (offer you in sacrifice to Allah), so look what you think!" He said: "O my father! Do that which you are commanded, Insha' Allah (if Allah will), you shall find me of As-Sabirin (the patient ones, etc.)." Then, when they had both submitted themselves (to the Will of Allah), and he had laid him prostrate on his forehead. And We called out to him: "O Abraham! You have fulfilled the dream (vision)!" Verily! Thus do We reward the Muhsinun (good-doers).Verily, that indeed was a manifest trial. And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice (i.e. a ram). And We left for him (a goodly remembrance) among generations (to come) in later times. (Sura Saffat, verses 102-108.)

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught Muslims the way of remembering the act of Ibrahim. He stayed 10 years in Madina and performed sacrifice at Eid-ul-Adha. (Tirmidhi)

Qurbani in Islamic terms means the slaughtering of an animal with the intention of getting close to Allah (SWT) by giving some or all of the meat to the poor and destitute. Animals that can be sacrificed are goats, cows and camels. They are sacrificed on the day of Eid-ul-Adha and also on the three days after (the 11, 12 and 13th of Dhulhijjah).

Benefits of Qurbani

Doing charity to the poor by contributing and distributing the meat to them and the destitute. These acts would spread happiness and cheers amongst them especially during the festival of Eid-ul-Adha where Muslims are in the spirit of festivities.

Who should give Qurbani

Person who possesses Nisab (zakatable asset) should give Qurbani. It is not obligatory (fard) but is highly recommended (wajib)*, according to the Hanafi school of thought. However, Qurbani is a Sunnah act according to the Shafi, Hanbali, Maliki, and Jafari schools of thought.

Requirements of Qurbani

The animals to be slaughtered must be a goat, sheep, cattle (cow, ox, water buffalo), or camel. Goats and sheep have to be at least one year old ( 2 Teeth) .For cows the age must be at least two years old. Camels must be at least five years old. Goats and sheep count as one share per animal. Cattle and camels count as seven shares per animal.

They must be free from any form of handicap such as blind, sick, limp and undernourished. It also must be free of any defects such as a cut-off ear, tail, broken teeth,or broken horn. However, the goat/sheep can be used if only a few teeth are broken and most teeth are still intact. In addition, if its horn is broken midway and not from the root, it is permissible to use such an animal. Injuries sustained during the qurbani do not invalidate the qurbani.

The animals must be slaughtered in the appropriate humane ways. It has to be done by a Muslim adhering to the Islamic way of slaughtering the animal.

Time of Qurbani

The time for Qurbani starts from sunrise after the performance of the Eidul Adha prayers which falls on the 10th of Zhulhijjah till the sunsets on the 12th of Zhulhijjah. The best time is to perform the acts of Qurbani immediately after the completion of the Eid-ul-Adha prayers.

It was reported that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
The first thing that we do on the day of Eid is to perform the prayers. Then we go home and carry out our Qurbani.Thus whoever does those acts has conformed to our sunnah. And for those who slaughtered before it, then the meat is for the family members and not as an act of Qurbani. (Sahih Al-Bukhari Volume 2, Book 15, Number 82)

Distribution of the Qurbani meat
It is preferable that the meat from Qurbani be divided in three equal parts: one for the home, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor and needy. The meat from qurbani can be distributed to the poor, rich, Muslim or non-Muslim.

*Wajib, in the Hanafi school, is an obligation which is almost Fard, except that there is some (margin of uncertainty, which may occur in the form of counter-evidence, which suggests non-obligatory nature of the deed), and the scholars have therefore refrained from pronouncing a decisive verdict of "fard" on it. Nevertheless, for purposes of action, a wajib is treated like a fard, in that it should not be deliberately discarded, and it must be made up if it was missed for some reason. For this reason, 'wajib' of the Hanafi school is also known as "fard `amali" (i.e. an 'action fard') as opposed to fard i`tiqadi ('belief fard'), the normal fard, which one is required not only to act upon, but also to believe with full certainty and conviction that it is without doubt a duty.

It is not their meat, nor their blood that reaches Allah; it is your piety that reaches Him (QURAAN Surah al-Haj 22:37)

Eid Mubarak

2008-12-08T05:00:00.001+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu!!

Wishing all my Muslim brothers and sisters a very Blessed EID!

WHEN IN THE MASJID

2008-11-30T09:17:00.004+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

I've been tagged By ukti Mina over at Humble Muslimah, so here are my three choices for Hadith in the masjid.

The Rules

Link back to the person who tagged you.
List 3 hadith you’d like to pin up in your masjid and why.
Tag some of your fellow bloggers by linking to them in your post and don’t forget to post a comment on their blog to let them know they’ve been tagged.

Three Ahadith:

1) Sahih Bukhari Volume 9, Book 93, Number 485:

Narrated 'Abdullah bin 'Amr:

Abu Bakr As-Siddiq said to the Prophet "O Allah's Apostle! Teach me an invocation with which I may invoke Allah in my prayers." The Prophet said, "Say: O Allah! I have wronged my soul very much (oppressed myself), and none forgives the sins but You; so please bestow Your Forgiveness upon me. No doubt, You are the Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful."

I like this hadith, for it's simplicity in gaining Allah Subhannahu wa Ta'ala's mercy.

2) Sahih Bukhari, Volume 1, Book 2, Number 10:

Narrated Abu Musa:

Some people asked Allah's Apostle, "Whose Islam is the best? i.e. (Who is a very good Muslim)?" He replied, "One who avoids harming the Muslims with his tongue and hands."

Often we harm people by what we say, yet we do not even think twice before we speak, and also to to remind people who hit others or use their hands for hurting others, in any form whether it may be with bare hands or hands holding a gun!

3) Sahih Bukhari Volume 1, Book 8, Number 347:

Narrated Um 'Atiya:

We were ordered to bring out our menstruating women and veiled women in the religious gatherings and invocation of Muslims on the two 'Id festivals. These menstruating women were to keep away from their Musalla. A woman asked, "O Allah's Apostle ' What about one who does not have a veil?" He said, "Let her share the veil of her companion."

This shows that women are not restricted only to the house but are allowed to go to religious gatherings, even when menstruating, but they must be mindful of covering themselves well, either with their own clothes or those borrowed by a friend.

I tag the following sisters:
Washi
Ange
Ek Ajnabia
& Umm Yusuf

Hope none of u sisters have been tagged with the same before ;)
Wa'Salaam

Photos of Makkah

2008-11-13T18:22:00.001+02:00

Departure from Madinah to Makkah Part 3

2008-11-12T20:16:00.001+02:00

Assalaamu-Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

I apologize once again for the late post, but here it is!!!

Our Last three days at Madinah were Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

On Friday we reached the Mosque in Madinah at 11 am thinking that we're arriving early and we'll find space easily, only to find that even at 11 am it was full from the door till the inside. We made our way to the inside part of the mosque where we hoped we would find some space, and Alhamdo lillah we did find just enough space for us to fit in.
The Khutba was amazing, even though it was in Arabic, we could get the gist of what was being said, we read our Zohr, and then went home till Asr. From Asr till Esha we stayed in the mosque again, as it was already full.

Saturday, most of the people who had arrived from the neighbouring Saudi cities headed back, and there was space in the mosque.

Sunday we did our last Ziyarah, and it was the saddest time for me, knowing that tommorrow i'd be gone from the City of the prophet not knowing when I'd be able to come back again, and it saddened me, I did not feel like leaving, I felt like staying there forever in Madinah, to be an Ummati of Huzoor Sallallahu Alaihi wasallam.

Monday morning around 10 am we left Madinah, after doing Niyah and salaah for Umrah at Masjid Quba, and headed across the dessert towards Makkah, past the sand dunes that were far away from the edge of the road. The Uhud mountains watched as we left Madinah and soon they also were out of sight.
We reached Makkah at around Asar time, thanks to the traffic in Makkah, as it was almost Asar time, and also since it is the main road that passes right in front of the Great mosque.

We finally got to our hotel an hour later, did Wudhu, read asr at the hotel and got ready for Magrib Salaah, and hopefully to do our Umrah after Esha Salaah. Unfortunately that was not possible because we were too tired, so we postponed it till after Fajr, but the crowd was too large after fajr, so we had to do it at 9am since my parents are old(but prefer to do tawaaf and Sa'ii walking rather than in a wheelchair), and cannot perform their Umrah on the first floor or the roof as it would be too long for them.
Luckily we got to do our Sa'ii on the first floor (same size as one below) which was still being completed, but open for people to do their Sa'ii.

On the left is a photo from that floor looking down. please note that the heat was no intense and hence there are so few ppl doing Tawaaf.

The picture below is taken on the ground floor just behind Safa Marwa, facing the Ka'aba.
we rested here a while after our umrah.

The first three days we found it very hard to find a place in the mosque to read magrib and esha, as the people arriving would fill up the back of the Mosque while the front portion of the mosque was relatively uncrowded. The main reason for this was that the front of the Mosque is not air conditioned and the portion behind is.
The second reason was that some people, like us did not realize that there is space in the front as well.

We discovered this two days before leaving Makkah.
Alhamdo lillah it was a good place to read, but it was very very hot there, as it is an open space, the air conditioners cooling effects are not felt.

We arrived at the mosque at 10am on Jummah to get good place for Zohr Jummah Salaah. We made our way to the front of the mosque, joining a long line which was slowly making its way into the heart of the Mosque. Alhamdolillah we found a good space here, and read some Quraan till the Khutba started.

The most annoying thing that I found at this time, was that two male beggers dressed in ehram had made their way into the ladies section, pulled out their mutated limbs from under their ehram and started asking the women for money while swingind their deformed limbs!!! whatever happened to the concept of Pardah, especially at a time when a person is trying to understand what is being said in the Khutba!
First of all before any of you decide to judge my harsh words, and say how can i say this, these guys are pros at this stuff, i've been seeing them at the mosque since i was a small child.
secondly, they can beg outside of the mosque after the Salaah, and i have no problem with that.
Thirdly, they should respect pardah from the women, and ask the men!

Magrib and esha, the mosque was packed full, more than i have ever seen it.
Pictures in next post!!!

Saturday we left makkah for Jeddah after our last Umrah, and back home!!!

Turning away from ibaadat

2008-11-09T05:42:00.002+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Today i came across this from the Quraan. Sometimes we neglect our ibaadat and become more involved go the reeling and dealing of this dunya. But this made me realize how bad that really is...

If anyone withdraws himself from Remembrance of The Most Gracious, We appoint for him a satan to be an intimate companion to him.

Such (a Satan) really hinder then from the Path, but they think that they are being guided aright!

Verses 36- 37 surah 43

Let ur find the time to do zikr even at work.
May Allah keep us all in His Guidance, and keep us on the siratul Mustaqeem! Ameen!

Part 2: Ziyaarat of out Nabi (P.B.U.H)

2008-10-20T06:11:00.008+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Rasulullah

(sallallahu alayhi wasallam)

said: "My Shafa'at (intercession on the Day of Qiyaamah) is Waajib (on me) for the one who visits my grave."

(Right: Door to Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) Resting place)

One morning after Fajr prayers we waited for the doors to the Ziyaarat area to open, and much to my delight, the ladies were actually being grouped according to where they came from. The Lady Shurta were holding up boards of different countries so you could easy join the appropriate group. I thought this is good, maybe we won't get squeezed in the Rawda this time round.

Once organized and the doors opened we went in one group at a time towards the old mosque which was built joining the house that hazrat Fatima Radiallahu anhuma lived in, this is also the same place where Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam), Hazrat Abu Bakar Siddiq (Father of Hazrat Aisha Radiallhu Anhuma) and Hazrat Omar al Farooq (The 2nd Caliph) are buried.

We entered the doors of the old mosque and with just the side of the raudha showing we sat down again waiting for the other groups that were inside to finish their ziyaarat and come out. While waiting we read some nafl salaah, and as many Salaam as we could while we waited.

We inched slowly forward as groups came out, coming ever closer to the raudha, constantly reciting the Salaams and duaas (to Allah SWT).

Finally our group was taken inside, but it was already packed with people we were not even in front of the raudha yet, just then another group entered into the already packed space, and pushed with all their might, making some ladies fall down while others were squashed. It appeared that the Turkish group had not waited for us to finish and came rushing and PUSHING in!!! what's worse is that they don't care who's infront of them they just PUSH!

I was squashed between a fat Turkish lady and another thin lady in front, and for a few seconds I could not breathe, I had to push myself sideways through the crowd and away from the raudha in order to breath again. I stood a distance away from the Raudha, not being able to see it properly, but read my Salaam, wanting to read my Nafl Salaah on the Green carpet which is said to be a piece of Jannah on the earth, but there was no space. Ladies were doing their sajidas on the backs or between the feet on the ladies in front, because there was just no space!

Luckily i found a corner that i went and stood in and the kind, big,Egyptian lady who was next to me gave me enough space to read my two Nafl. She spotected me so no-one fell on me. May Allah Bless her with all thats good, she really made me very happy that although there are people that will harm you there are always people that will protect you also. Just as i finished my Duaa, the lady shurta came and began to tell me to go out if I had finished. i then left the area and entered into another section of the mosque that had a few people in it. I sat there for a while reading more salaam and a few more rakaats of nafl Salah, and then walked back towards the ladies area, and back to the hotel till zohr Salaah.

Below is a picture of Jannatul Baqi (the graveyard adjacent to Masjid al Nabwi)

This cemetery contains many of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam)'s relatives and companions. Its name means "The Garden of Heaven". Many traditions relate Muhammad issuing a prayer every time he passed the cemetery. Prior to the twentieth century, many of the graves were covered with domes or other structures.

After the city of Medina was taken by King Ibn Saud, many of these tombs, originally intended to identify famous companions of Muhammad, were destroyed in 1925 in order to prevent people from visiting them in order to seek a means of approach to Allāh (a request for blessings, in this world or for intercessions in the hereafter). This, (tawassul), along with reading chapters from Islam's holy book, The Qur'an, is considered by some as being Shirk, the sin of idolatry. Namely the governors of two, of the three, of Islam's holy places consider these kinds of visits as Shirk, and therefore it should be eradicated in all forms. This is the reason why there exists a threat to the House where the Prophet of Islam was born, and other such places that some consider sacred.^{[citation needed]}

Taken from here

Trip to Makkah Coming soon Inshallah ....

Part 1: The trip to Madinah, the Prophet Muhammah, Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam's city

2008-10-10T22:44:00.008+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Firstly I must apologize for taking so long to do this post. There have been many many things going on with work that have not allowed me enough time to publish this post.

Today I will just be talking of the first part of my trip to Madinah, yet i fear my words cannot do justice with the feeling of being there,but i shall try my best to describe them and imagining myself as being there with Prophet Muhammad, Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam.

Our arrival at Madinah was just after the Asar Salaah, The weather was absolutely wonderful being overcast and cloudy, reducing some of the heat (up to 48 degrees) that had been the norm for the days prior to our arrival. It was as if Allah (SWT) was gently allowing us to acclimatize to the heat, as it was end of winter when we left home, with temperatures around 10 degrees Celsius, it was almost a thirty degree difference.

We rested for a while then headed off to the Masjid-e-Nabvi for Magrib prayers. The mosque was already full of people when we arrived, but Alhamdo Lillah we found a good place right at the front of the ladies section, and then iftaari time came closer young girls began to spread out long lines of plastics on which they were going to serve dates, yoghurt (laban), water, two varieties of large breads, Dugga, and wonderful smelling Kahwa .... it was Such a wonderful feeling being there at that moment in time. Just then the chandeliers above us lit up and it felt like we were in some castle at a great banquet, it was simply wonderful.

The sad things is i couldn't take pics because they didn't allow me to take my phone in as it had a camera, and apparently (in the ladies section) they don't allow it.
Yet there were ladies who had brought it in, and i was wondering how they managed? Anyhow, i still enjoyed every bit of it.
We read Quraan Until Magrib. As the Azaan was given everyone started eating Iftaari, 10 minutes later the plastics on which the food was served were quickly rolled up and all the disposable plates thrown away in large refuse bags, and the whole place was clean in a matter of minutes, then we all prayed magrib, after which some people left and some stayed till Esha time.

We read Quraan again till esha time, and there were days like our first day there that the Imaam would get so emotional reading some parts of the Quraan, that his voice would quiver, and it was as if he was speaking to Allah (SWT) Subhanallah it was so moving,touching, once you understand what was being read. This really inspired me to learn Arabic, so that i can also understand. I do understand words here and there, but sometimes it's not enough to understand an entire passage.

After Taraweeh we'd go and have dinner, which was usually Schwarma (YUMMMM) and once we were invited by a very nice family staying in Madinah who insisted many days that we have dinner with them, and one night we agreed. I'm glad that we did, the food was great :)

After dinner we'd sleep for about an hour and it would be time for Tahajjud, after which we'd do sehri, read Fajr in the mosque, and come back to the hotel room if we didn't go to the Raodha Mubarak.

This was our routine for the next six days, and Mashallah what lovely six days they were indeed. There is a lot more that is embedded in my memory, and inshallah as I remember it I will post it.

The Visit to the Raudha (Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) burial place.... & Jummah Salaah To be Continued soon Inshallah

Eid mubarak!

2008-09-24T13:38:00.006+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rehmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Alhamdolillah, am back safe and sound, and will be posting details of my journey after Eid Inshallah.

Till then wishing you
all Eid Mubarak in advance, and thanking you all for your wonderful support.

Jazakallah khair to all :)

duaas finally accepted, Alhamdolillah!

2008-09-07T05:59:00.002+02:00

Assalaamu alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu!

Alhamdolillah my duaas are accepted, and we're going for Umrah! Yes! We going for Umrah! I'm very happy.

Wil tell u all about my trip when i get back inshallah.
all my sisters are in my duaas :)

Wa Salaam

Ramadaan Mubarak to All!!!

2008-09-01T12:05:00.000+02:00

Assalaamu alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Wishing all my readers a Ramadaan filled with Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala's Mercy and Blessing.

Make as much Duaa as you want, for in this month Allah Hears the Duaas of the Mu'mineen and Mu'minaat.
May Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala accept your Duaas. Ameen.

Please remember me in your Duaas also.

Be on the lookout for Laylatul Qadr, in the last ten days of Ramadaan, do not let this mighty treasure out of your hands. For reference refer to Surah Qadr (S No.97) in the 30th Book

Copy and paste this link in your browser to see it on the web: http://www.ahlesunnat.biz/holyquran/holyquran097.htm

Wasalaam

Moon

Dreams of Umrah

2008-08-28T13:31:00.000+02:00

Assalaamu alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Today i am wishing more than ever, that i can go for Ummrah during this Ramadan. It's been six years since i last went there and every ounce of me wants to be there this Ramadaan. I pray every year and i don't get to go, i hope this year is different, inshallah.
I am praying that Allah grant me this opportunity. Ameen

Featuring the light within

2008-08-23T11:40:00.003+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Today as i was reading through a couple of blogs I found some really good articles on Ramadaan. Here is the link to Umm Travis's blog.

Lesson one is about Muslim Unity
Lesson two is about aquiring Patience
Lesson three is about cultivating Good Manners
Lesson four is about seeking nearness to Allah
Lesson five is about Gaining Taqwaa

7 Days till Ramadaan!!!

Duaas for Ramadaan

2008-08-21T12:50:00.012+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

As Ramadaan approaches very fast (9 Days to go) i find myself struggling to keep up with everything.

Here are some important Duaas:

Upon Sighting of the new Moon

اللَّهُ اَكْبَرُ ، اَللَّهُمَّ اَهِلَّهُ عَلَيْنَا بِالآَمْنِ وَلاِيمَانِ ، وَالسَّلَامَةِ وَالاِسْلَامِ ، وَالتَّوْفِيقِ لِمَا تُحِبُّ رَبَّنَا وَتَرْضَى ، رَبُّنَا وَرَبُّكَ اللَّهُ

Allahu Akbar. Allahumma ahillahu 'alayna bil-amni wal-imaani, was-salaamati, wal-Islami, wat-tawfeeqi lima tuhibbu Rabbana wa tardha. Rabbuna wa RabbukAllahu

Allah is the Greatest. O Allah bring us the new moon with security and faith, with peace and in Islam, and in harmony with what our Lord Loves and what pleases Him. Our Lord and your Lord is Allah
[at-Tirmidhi 5:504, ad-Darimi 1:336]

Here are duaas for keeping and breaking the fasts.

When beginning the fast- Suhur

Wa bisawmi ghadinn nawaiytu min shahri ramadan

I intend to keep the fast for tomorrow in the month of Ramadan
[abu Dawud]

When breaking the fast- Iftar

اللَّهُمَّ اِنِّى لَكَ صُمْتُ وَبِكَ امنْتُ [وَعَلَيْكَ تَوَكَّلْتُ] وَعَلَى رِزْقِكَ اَفْطَرْتُ

Allahumma inni laka sumtu wa bika aamantu [wa 'alayka tawakkaltu] wa 'ala rizq-ika aftarthu

O Allah! I fasted for You and I believe in You [and I put my trust in You] and I break my fast with Your sustenance
["wa 'alayka tawakkaltu" is quoted in some books of knowledge - but not all, hence it is in brackets]
[abu Dawud]

to this you can add:

ذَهَبَ الظَّمَأُ وَ ابْتَلَّتِ الْعُرُوقُ، وَ ثَبَتَ الأجْرُ إنْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ

dhahabadh-dhama'u wab-tallatil 'urūūqi, wa thabatal arju inshaAllah

The thrist is gone, the veins are moistened and the reward is confirmed, if Allah [Ta'ala] Wills
[abu Dawud 2:306]

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسأَلُكَ بِرَحْمَتِكَ الَّتِي وَسِعَتْ كُلَّ شَيْءٍ أَنْ تَغْفِرَ لِي

Allaahumma inni as’aluka birahmatika al-lati wasi'at kulli shay’in an taghfira li

O Allah, I ask You by Your mercy which envelopes all things, that You forgive me.
[a du'a that Abdullah ibn Amar (radiAllahu anhu) used to say when breaking his fast - as reported by Ibn abi Mulaykah (radiAllahu anhu)]

When someone offers you food when you are fasting and you decline

When you are invited to eat, then reply to the invitation. if you are fasting, then invoke Allah's blessings (on your host), and if you are not fasting then eat
[Muslim; 2:1054]

When you are fasting, and someone is rude to you

اِنَّيْ صَائِمٌ ، اِنِّيْ صَائمٌ

Inni sa'iimu, inni sa'iimu

I am fasting, I am fasting
[Sahih al-Bukhari, Fath al-Bari of Al-Asqalani; 4:1-3, Muslim; 2:806]

Recited at intervals of taraweeh prayers

سُبْحَانَ ذِى الْمُلْكِ وَ الْمَلَكُوْتِ سُبْحَانَ ذِى الْعِذَّْْةِ وَ الْعظْمَةِ وَ، الْهَيْبَةِ وَ الْقُدُرَةِ ، وَالْكِبْرِيَآءِ وَ الْجَبْرُتِ، سُبْحَانَ الْمَلِكِ الْحَىِّ الَّذِىْ لايُنَامُ وَ لا يَمُوُتُ، سُبُّوحٌ ، قُدُّوْسٌ، رَبُّ الْمَلَئِكَةِ وَ الرُّوُحِ لَآ اِلهَ اِلَّا اللَّهُ نَسْتَغْفِرُ اللَّهُ ، نَسْئَلُكَ الْجَنَّةَّ وَ نَعُوُذُ بِكَ مِنَ النّارِ

Subhana dhil Mulki wal Malakuti, Subhana dhil izzati wal aDhmati wal haybati wal Qudrati, wal kibriyaa'i wal jabaroot Subhanal Malikil hayyil ladhi, la yunaamu wa la yamūtu, Subbuhun, Quddusun, Rabbul malaa'ikati war-rooh
La ilaha illal lahu, nustugfirullahi
nas 'alukul jannati, wa na udhubika min an-naar

Glorified is the Owner of the Kingdom of the earth and the heavens; Glorified is the Possessor of Honour and Magnificence and Awe, and Power and Greatness and Omnipotence
Glorified is the Sovereign, the Living, Who does neither sleep nor die
O all Glorious, All Holy one, Our lord and the Lord of the Angels, And the soul.
There is no God but You, Forgive us, Grant us Paradise, and save us from (hell) fire.

Upon breaking the fast in someone's home

أفْطَرَ عِنْدَكُمُ الصَّائِمُونَ، وَ أَكَلَ طَعَامَكُمُ الأبْرَارُ، وَ صَلَّتْ عَلَيْكُم ُ الْمَلائِكَةُ

Aftara 'indakumus saa'imuna, wa akala ta'aamakumul-abraaru, wasallat 'alaikumul mala'ikat

May those who are fasting break their fast in your home, and may the dutiful and pious eat your food and may the angels send prayers upon you.
[abu Dawud 3:367, ibn Majah 1:556, an Nasa'i]

On Lailatul Qadr - the Night of Power

Aishah (radhiya Allahu Ta'ala anha), that she said: "O Messenger of Allah! What if I knew which night Lailatul-Qadr was, then what should I say in it?" He said 'Say

اَللَّهُمَّ اِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ ، تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي

Allahumma innaka 'affuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'anni' " O Allah You are The One Who pardons greatly, and loves to pardon, so pardon me.
[at Tirmidhi]

What Duaas do you read in Ramadaan?

Wishing you All a Ramadaan filled with Allah (SWT's) Blessings

Alhamdolillah

2008-08-18T22:40:00.000+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Today i was just thinkin about my life and all that's happened in the last few years. Looking closely there are a lot of things that happened that i didn't like, but now i see that it's actually good that they happened that way at that particular time. They have helped me become a better person.
Alhamdo lillah.
Alhamdolillah for all the comforts i have in this life. Alhamdolillah for the health i have, it may not be perfect, but it's a lot better than the sufferings i have seen of other people.
And most of all Alhamdolillah that Allah S.W.T has always helped me every step of the way and guided me, and given me this perfect deen of Islam.

Alhamdolillah!

The Night of Baraat

2008-08-17T09:33:00.003+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikumwa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

The merits of 15th of Sha'baan are argued among scholars, and some of my friends objected to my previous post on this night.

I however did a lot of reading around, and also checked out the Fatwa on Islam Q & A, but am not 100 % satisfied.
I have therefore turned to the governing Muslim body in my part of the world (South Africa), as they are the ones I prefer to follow.

I agree that the Ahadith about this night are weak, but I personally do not feel that they should be discarded, and neither does the Muslim body here.

All I would like to say is that everyone is responsible for his/her own Akhirah, so if you want you can do Ibaadah on this night, there is no harm in it, as long as you do not connect it to any biddah (innovations) such as distributing sweets on this night, celebrating it using fireworks or any such innovation.
IF you prefer not to do any Ibaadah on this night then that is up to you.

Here are extracts from their site.
To read the full article click here

The Night of Baraat

Allah Ta' ala has, afforded His bondsmen certain selected opportunities whereby they may reap his infinite mercy and forgiveness. Some explicit examples of these occasions are the month of Ramadan and Laylatul Qadr.The night of the fifteenth of Shábaan is one such opportunity. Several Ahadith expound the tremendous merit of this occasion. Amongst them is the fact that countless people are forgiven by Allah Ta' ala during this blessed night. It is due to this reason that it is called "The Night of Bara'at" (i.e. the night wherein judgment of salvation from Jahannam (hell) is passed).

Certain Ahadith prove that it is a meritorious night in which the people of the earth are attended by special divine mercy. However, it should be borne in mind that a vast majority of narrations declaring the benefit and virtue of this night are weak but reliable for purposes of virtue.

Some of these Ahadith are :

1. Ummul-Mu'mineen Aishah (radiyallahu anha) is reported to have said, "Once Rasulullah, (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) performed the Salaah of the night (Tahajjud) and made a very long Sajdah until I feared that he had passed away. When I saw this, I rose (from my bed) and moved his thumb (to ascertain whether he is alive). The thumb moved, and I returned (to my place). Then I heard him saying in Sajdah: 'I seek refuge in Your forgiveness from Your punishment, and I seek refuge in Your pleasure from Your annoyance, and I seek Your refuge from Yourself. I cannot praise You in the manner that You deserve. You are exactly as You have defined Yourself.' Thereafter, when he raised his head from Sajdah and finished his salaah, he said to me: 'Aishah, did you think that the Prophet has betrayed you?' I said, 'No, O Prophet of Allah, but I was afraid that your soul has been taken away because your Sajdah was very long.' He asked me, 'Do you know what night it is ?' I said, 'Allah and His Messenger know best.' He said, 'This is the night of the half of Shábaan. Allah Ta’ala looks upon His slaves in this night and forgives those who seek forgiveness and bestows His mercy upon those who pray for mercy but leaves those who have malice (against a Muslim) as they were before, (and does not forgive them unless they free themselves from malice).'"
Targheeb wat tarheeb(vol 2 pg.119) on the authority of Imam Bayhaqi (rah)

2. In another Tradition, she has reported Rasulullah, Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam, to have said, "This is the middle Night of Sha'ban. Allah emancipates in it a large number of the people from the Fire, more than the number of the hair growing on the sheep of the tribe, Kalb. But He does not cast a glance at a person who associates partners with Him, or at a person who harbours malice in his heart (against someone), or at a person who severs family ties, or at a man who leaves his clothes extending below his ankles, or at a person who disobeys his parents, or at a person who has a habit of drinking wine."
Targeeb wat Tarheeb, vol. 2, pg. 118 authority of Imam Bayhaqi (rah)

Kalb was a big tribe the members of which had a very large number of sheep. Therefore, the last sentence of the Hadith indicates the large number of people forgiven on this night by Allah Ta’ala.

3. Sayyiduna Muaz ibn Jabal, Radiyallahu anhu, reports that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) said: "Allah Ta’ala looks upon all those he created in the middle Night of Shábaan and forgives them all, except the one who associates partners with Him or the one who has malice in his heart (against a Muslim)".
Targeeb wat Tarheeb, vol. 2, pg. 118 from Imam Tabrani and Saheeh ibn Hibban

4. Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Amr radiyallahu anhu reports that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) said, Allah Ta’ala looks upon his creation on the middle night of Shábaan and forgives them, except one who harbours malice in his heart and a murderer.
Targeeb wat Tarheeb, vol 2 pg. 119 from Imam Ahmad (rah)

Although the chain of narrators of some of these traditions have minor technical defects, when all these traditions are combined and brought together, it becomes clear that this night has some well founded merits, and observing this night as a sacred night is not a baseless as envisaged by some modern scholars who, on the basis of these minor defects, have declined to give any special importance to this night. Certain scholars of Hadith have granted these Ahadith authenticity and consider their defects very minor, which are amended by the variety and manner of narration. It is for this reason that Ulama and pious personalities of the past always observed this night as one of special merits and tremendous benefits.

Below are a few comments and criticism about the ahadith regarding the virtue of this night:

Hazrat Moulana Yusuf Binnori (rah) says:
“ I have not come across any Sahih, Marfoo or, Musnad Hadith regarding the excellence of the night."
Ma'aarifus Sunan, vol. 5, pg. 419.

The Muhaddith, Ibnu-Dihya (rah) has also agreed that neither has anything authentic been narrated regarding the fifteenth night of Shábaan nor has any specific Salaah been prescribed for this night via reliable narrator
Faydhul-Qadeer -Sharhul Jaamis Sagheer, vol. 2, pg. 317

****Whilst even Allamah Ibn Taymiyyah (rah), a scholar notorious for refuting such observances, also accepts the virtue of the night of Bara'at. He says:
" So many Ahadith and reports exist regarding the excellence of the Fifteenth night of Shábaan that one is compelled to accept that this possesses some virtue.”

Some of the pious predecessors used to specially devote this night for Salaah.
Faydhul Qadeer, vol. 2, pg.317*****

Moulana Abdur Rahman Mubarakpuri writes in his commentary of Tirmizi:
" The sheer number of Ahadith regarding this night serves as proof against those people who refute the excellence of this night."
Tuhfatul-Ahwazi, vol. 2, pg. 53

Allama Anwar Shah Kashmiri (rah) has written that the significance of the night of Bara'at is proven. There is however, no proof for those weak and unacceptable narrations mentioned in certain books.
Al-Arfus-Shazi, pg. 156

The virtue of this night established from these Ahadith is that from the very beginning of the night Allah Ta' ala turns with special mercy and attention towards the creation and forgives those who repent and seeks forgiveness. Every Muslim should therefore value this night. Turn towards Allah Ta' ala with sincere regret and shame over sins committed and make a promise never to re- turn to sin again and seek forgiveness from Allah Ta'ala. Seek forgiveness for oneself and all Muslims, living and deceased. Have firm hope and resolution in the heart that Allah Ta' ala will surely show mercy and forgiveness.

And Allah knows Best...

Wa'Salaam

15th Shaban

2008-08-16T07:47:00.009+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

The 15th night of Shaban is tonight.

Here is a duaa for this auspicious night

to download it click here

Shaban is the month of special blessings. In this month Allah Ta’ala has favoured the Ummah of His last Prophet (Sallalaho Alaihi Wasallam) and has given them means to achieve Blessings, Salvation and Forgiveness. In this month there comes a special night called Lailatul Bara’at, the fazilat of which are given in a special article in this issue. There are many Hadiths of Prophet (Sallalaho Alaihi Wasallam) in which he described the Virtue and Blessings of this month. Hazrat Abu Huraira has reported Prophet (Sallalaho Alaihi Wasallam) saying, “Rajab is the month of Allah Ta’ala, Shaban is my month and Ramadan is the month of my Ummah. In Shaban sins are forgiven by Allah Ta’ala and in Ramadan my people are completely purified from sins.”

The Prophet (Sallalaho Alaihi Wasallam) has said :“Shaban has superiority over other months as I have superiority over all the Prophets (Alaihis Salaam).” The Prophet (Sallalaho Alaihi Wasallam) also said, “Between Rajab and Ramadan there is the blessed month of Shaban.People are not aware of it. The actions of men are presented to Allah Ta’ala in this month. Therefore I like to fast when my actions are presented to Allah Ta’ala.”

In another Hadith our beloved Prophet (Sallalaho Alaihi Wasallam) has said :“When the blessed month of Shaban reaches you, it cleanses your spirit to receive the blessed month of Ramadan. Pure your intentions, surely the greatness of Shaban is like my greatness over all Prophets. Be mindful, Shaban is my month and anyone who keeps fast in it, my intercession will be wajib for him.”One should fast on the 13th 14th & 15th of Shaban, if not on all three then fast only on the 15th Shaban.

** Please note the above Ahadith are weak (da'eef) and not Sahih Hadith.

Here is a Duaa meant for Laylatul Qadr but can be recited extensively tonight also, as well as any other time. It is as follows:

`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 love forgiveness. So forgive me." [Recorded by Ahmad, Ibn Majah, and at-Tirmithi. Verified to be authentic by Al-Albani]

Here is another hadith for the 15th of Shabaan

Mother of the believers, Sayidatuna A’isha (May Allah be pleased with her) says, I missed the Prophet (Swall Allau Alaihi Wasallam) one night so I went out to al-Baqi’ (graveyard, and found him). He said: “Were you afraid that Allah would wrong” I said: “O Messenger of Allah, I thought that you might have gone to visit one of your [other] wives.” He said: “Allah Glorious and Exalted descends to the nearest heaven on the night of mid-Shabaan (15th night) and He forgives more people than the number of hair on the hides of the flocks and herds of sheep of the tribe of Kalb. {Tirmidhi}

It is recorded in books that the tribe of Kalb used to have the most number of sheep in Arabia, but some unfortunate people are still not forgiven on this night when Allah showers His mercy on mankind. Amongst them are 1) those who are habitual drinkers [alcoholics] 2) those who are habitual adulterous 3) those who are disobedient to their parents 4) those who break family ties 5) those who are mischief-spreaders and, 6) those who are back-bitters. In another narration mischief-spreader is replaced with those who make pictures. {Mukashifatul Quloob}. In other narrations those who practice magic, those who eat interest, those who lower their pants below their ankles with pride, those who start a fight between two Muslims, those who bear malice (have hatred for another Muslim) in their hearts without a lawful cause are also not forgiven on this blessed night unless they repent sincerely and also ask for forgiveness from fellow Muslims and make peace.

** Another Da'eef Hadith

Salaah on this night:

It is recorded from the Friends of Allah [Auliya-Allah] to pray 6 cycles of ritual prayer [raka’] after the Maghrib prayer. In the first two raka’ add with the intention that with its blessing extend life with harmony. Next two for the protection from misfortunes and evil, and next two so that may Allah make us dependant on Him and no one else. After every two cycles [raka’] recite 21 times Surah Ikhlas OR once Sura Yasin (chapter 36). Rather read both and gain mounts of rewards and then recite the Supplication of Shabaan (dua’ of Shabaan)

Spend the night, as much as possible, in worship and on the 15th of Shabaan fast. It is written in Anees-ul-Waezeen that whoever fasts on the fifteenth of Shabaan the fire of hell will not touch him.

Since the book of deeds is changed on the 15 night, if it is possible, also fast on the 14th so that the last day of the yearly deed book is spent fasting and the first day is spent fasting.

Lets make the best of this precious night.

May Allah forgive All of us and may we be among the dwellers of Jannah. Ameen Summameen

A door of Jannah

2008-08-12T06:48:00.004+02:00

Bismillah hir Rahmanir Raheem

And for such as had entertained the fear of standing before their Lord, and had restrained their soul from lower desires,

Their abode wil be The Garden.

V 40- 41 Surah 79

loosing your identity?

2008-08-09T12:45:00.003+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

I was just wondering how many of the sisters feel that once they're married they totally end up becoming a different person.

You start to become what your husband wants, and give up all that you like.
The sad part is that your husband wil not change himself to what you like, but will make you what he wants.

Just wondering how may sisters feel like that and how do you deal with it?

Wonderful Lavender oil

2008-08-06T16:30:00.004+02:00

Assalamu-Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Lately I've discovered the immense benefits of using Lavender oil, and I thought I'd share it with you all.

Lavender - Remedy for many health problems

Aching Muscles
If you’ve spent a back-breaking afternoon in the garden, jump into a lavender bath to soothe aches & pains away. Apply Epsom salts & a few drops of Lavender Oil to the bath and soak away the tension. If massaged into the neck and shoulder muscles, it can relieve tension headaches and 'computer headache'. The oil is analgesic (pain-lessening); rub it into painful joints for relief from arthritis symptoms, or into muscles made sore from overexertion.
Acne
Lavender is one of the most valuable oils for the treatment of acne, according to aromatherapists. “It inhibits the bacteria that cause the skin infection, helps to re balance the over-secretion of sebum, which the bacteria thrive on, and reduce scarring”. Add a few drops of lavender oil to a plain cream sold by chemists and use as a moisturizer or cleanser.
Bugs & Bacteria
French laboratory studies in the early 20th century showed that lavender is a powerful antibacterial in dilutions of 5 per cent or less it is lethal to bacteria that cause typhoid, TB & diphtheria. Combined with Lemon Balm, for its clinically tested anti-viral properties. Lavender essential oil is actually an insect repellent. It can be worn as perfume or added to a hair rinse to keep mosquitoes and other outdoor annoyances away.
Burns (minor)
After you have cooled the area by immersing it in running cold water for 5 minutes, gently stroke on neat lavender oil. Pain relief is almost immediate, and burn usually heals without scarring.
Cuts & Wounds
Apply lavender oil to sooth pain, prevent bacterial infection and aid scar-free healing. Apply neat.
Earache
Warm a bottle of lavender oil in hot water for a minute or two, then gently massage a few drops into the skin around the ears and throat. For babies & small children, add 2-3 drops of the warmed oil to a little olive oil and massage in the same way.
Eczema
Stroke infused lavender oil (a few drops of lavender oil & carrier oil) into dry, itchy skin—small children will find this especially comforting or add a few drops of lavender oil to calamine lotion, shake before use.
Fatigue
Add 5 drops of lavender oil to a hot foot bath and relax while your feet soak in it. The soles of the feet are particularly porous, so lavender reaches your bloodstream very quickly, exerting its stimulating and soothing effects on various systems of your body.
Fevers
For babies or small children, sponge them down very gently with tepid water to which you have added a drop of lavender oil. Take care not to let them get chilled. This works for adults too.
Giddy Spells, Faintness or Pulpitations
Make your own smelling salts—sea salt , lavender oil, peppermint oil & basil oil.
Headache
The distilled water of Lavender (Hydrosol) Mist around your head, is refreshing and soothing. Alternatively, make a compress of a piece of cause or muslin soaked in icy cold water then sprinkled with a few drops of lavender oil and apply to the forehead, or massage a few drops into the forehead, temples and nape of the neck.
Insomnia
In a number of small studies, elderly psychiatric patients have been shown to sleep better and be more alert during the day when their sleep medication is replaced with lavender oil either dropped on their pillows, or placed in a diffuser on the ward. To help to induce sleep, put 3 or 4 drops of lavender oil on your pillow. For babies, add 1 drop of lavender oil & geranium oil in carrier oil and massage into a babies back or a few drops in their bedtime bath.
Long-Haul Travel
Combine lavender, rosemary, Neroli, frankincense & clary sage, into your hand luggage and roll it over your pulse points to help you keep a clear head during those endless hours in the air.
Menstrual Cramps
Massage a few drops of lavender oil into your lower abdomen or apply a hot compress onto the area, which a little lavender oil has been sprinkled.
Moths,Midges & Mosquitos
These annoying little insects all hate the smell of lavender. To prevent bites, splash yourself with lavender hydrosol before you go out at sunset or to bed, put 3-4 drops of oil on your pillow or soak cotton wool ball in the oil and leave it on a saucer in front of the window. Lavender oil is also a terrific remedy for insect bites, soothing itching & inflammation: dab it on to them neat as soon as possible. To keep moths off your clothes, hand lavender bags on you coat hangers or keep them among your sweaters and refresh them with a drop or two of lavender oil from time to time.
Scabies
This infestation by a tiny mite burrowing into your skin causes intense itching. Rub the whole body with neat lavender oil, then following every day until better with a mixture of lavender oil and alcohol. Change and wash bedding and clothes and sprinkle lavender oil on the mattress.
Shingles
Combine a mix of lavender oil with, analgesic, antiviral & scar preventing essential oils neat or on compresses on the agonizing lesions of shingles. It usually produces a cure within 5-8 days.
Sinusitis
Lavender is one of several essential oils that aromatherapists recommend for inhalations to relieve sinusitis, add two drops of lavender & thyme oil to a bowl of near-steaming water and inhale slowly and deeply, with a towel over your head & bowl.
Stress & Anxiety
Keep a spritzer of Lavender Mist - Hydrosol handy to spray on your face during the day, or apply lavender oil neat to your temples.
Sunburn
Spray pure Lavender Mist – Hydrosol directly onto the skin or Add 8 drops of lavender oil and 4 drops of peppermint oil to a teaspoon of jojoba oil. Pour it into a cool-to-lukewarm bath and soak for 10 minutes.

Enjoy :)

Ma' Salaama

Night of Ascension, Shabe Meraj

2008-07-31T16:41:00.010+02:00

Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu

Last night was the night of Ascension in our side of the world and for others it will be tonight.

What is the night of Ascension you may ask...
Well it comes on the 27th of Rajab in the Islamc Calender, it is the night when the miraculous journey that Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) experienced.Unlike what some people claim, that journey involved both the body and soul of the Prophet.

The main proof of the fact that the body of the Prophet was involved in the journey is that Almighty Allah began the first verse of Surat Al-Israa' by the word subhan, which means exalted and glorified. This word indicates that a miraculous event is about to be mentioned in the sequel.

This journey was a decisive stage of the Prophet's call in Makkah, because there were several cases of people embracing Islam and others leaving it after this incident. Abu Bakr, the Companion of the Prophet, received his title As-Siddiq (Arabic for the very sincere) after this incident. He was the first to believe in the truthfulness of all events of this journey as narrated by the Prophet.

On that night, Jibreel came to the Prophet and told him to circumambulate the Ka`bah seven times. At the Ka`bah, Jibreel told him that he (Prophet Muhammad) was going to Al-Aqsa Mosque, wherefrom they shall both ascend the seventh heaven to meet Almighty Allah.

In fact, you should prepare yourself for that day when you shall meet Him. Will you be happy on that day? Or will you be ashamed of what you did during your life?

Almighty Allah says,

[Glory be to Him Who took His servant for a Journey by night from the Sacred Mosque to the Farthest Mosque, whose precincts We did bless, in order that We might show him some of Our signs; surely, He, only He, is the Hearer, the Seer [of all things].] (Al-Israa' 17:1)

The journey of Al-Israa' and Al-Mi`raj has a highly symbolic nature. After the Prophet circumambulated the Ka`bah, he found Al-Buraq, which was going to be his means of transportation during this great journey.

Anas ibn Malik narrated that Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) described Al-Buraq saying,

"I was introduced to Al-Buraq, a white and long animal that is larger than a donkey but smaller than a mule. It would place its hoof at a distance equal to the range of its vision." (Muslim)

From this hadith, one can get hold of the level of faith the Prophet's Companions had. They believed in the truthfulness of this journey whose turn of events was beyond the comprehension of humans. It is important to remember that this miraculous journey took place at a time when beasts of burden were the only means of transportation. However, with whatever means of transportation the human brain can engineer, the journey will always remain a miraculous event that goes beyond human perception.

Moreover, through the creation of Al-Buraq, Almighty Allah challenges humans and reminds them of His capability and power that always surpass theirs, no matter how advanced they become in science and technology until the Day of Judgment. So, people should never boast about their power or achievements. They should always remember that their power and knowledge are incomparable to those of Allah, Almighty, All-Knowing.

Fetter Your Own Buraq

Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) described how Jibreel accompanied him along his journey saying, "And I set out with Jibreel" (Al- Bukhari). This refers to the importance of one's company. You should carefully choose friends who can help you in the journey of this worldly life.

The Arabic word Al-Buraq is derived from barq, which means lightning. It refers to the speed at which the creature traveled from one place to another. Likewise, only a good companion can push you forward with such speed. A few weeks before that journey, Prophet Muhammad was not able to move freely in Makkah and life was so suppressing on earth. However, during that journey, he was able to penetrate the whole universe.

When the Prophet and Jibreel reached Al-Aqsa Mosque, they landed near the wall of the mosque, whereupon the Prophet tethered the creature to a ring. This creature, Al-Buraq, had been brought to the Prophet as a means of transportation; it was not expected to run away, so why did the Prophet fetter it? This had a very important wisdom: Recommending one's soul to Almighty Allah does not mean that one should dispense with the causes or the means. Everyone should do their best to achieve their goals. Everyone must fetter their own Buraq.

Unity and Responsibility

Prophet Muhammad then entered the mosque. In the middle of the night, the mosque was expected to be void of people, yet it was amazingly full. All Prophets of Allah, starting from Adam (peace be upon him) and up until Jesus or `Isa (peace be upon him), were present. There was no place for a foot. They all came to welcome the Seal of the Prophets, Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him).

Such a gathering of all Prophets in one place is a unique event. It had an important significance: unity of humans regardless of difference in time and place. At our present time, how can unity be achieved with the wars, hatred, and bloodshed we suffer all over the world? Islam calls for unity, coexistence, and dialogue of civilizations, not clash of civilizations.

Nevertheless, the presence of Allah's Prophets at the mosque had another implication. Prophet Muhammad was going to see them later during his journey in the seven heavens.

In the mosque, all the Prophets stood aligned for Prayer and waited for what Jibreel had to say. Jibreel told Prophet Muhammad to lead the Prayer, and they all prayed two rak`ahs.

As much as this incident came to honor Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), it was also a commitment: The Prophets handed over to him the banner of leadership of humankind. Accordingly, Prophet Muhammad became a witness over us, and so we became witnesses over other nations.

Do you feel that you are responsible? We, Muslims, constitute 20 percent of the world's population, yet we still learn and take from the remaining 80 percent. We stopped giving. We ceased to add to the heritage of humanity 200 years ago. Prophet Muhammad said, "The upper hand is better than the lower hand" (Al- Bukhari).Therefore, there is no way for us other than the way of revival. We are responsible for this earth now.

Al-Aqsa Mosque is where the Prophets gathered, where the ascension to the seven heavens started, and where the descent took place before the Prophet returned to Makkah. The fact that Prophet Muhammad Led the Prophets in Prayer has an important significance: It is known in Islam that a man is not to be led in Prayer inside his own home, so what can one say about Prophet Muhammad's and (and thus Muslim's) responsibility toward Al-Aqsa Mosque?

Anas ibn Malik's narration of the story of ascension continues. Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said,

"I prayed two rak`ahs in it [i.e. Al-Aqsa Mosque] and then went out, and Jibreel brought me a vessel of wine and a vessel of milk. I chose the milk, and Jibreel said, 'You have chosen the natural thing.'" (Muslim)

Milk represents Allah's creation that is intact. On the other hand, wine is an example of human interference in the creation of Allah. It is produced by fermenting the juice of grapes and thus requires human interference. In many cases, such interference can spoil what Allah has created.

The Prophet's choice emphasizes that fitrah or pure nature of what Allah has created is one foundation for the Muslim Ummah. One must search for this pure nature within oneself.

Almighty Allah says,

[Glory be to Him Who took His servant for a Journey by night from the Sacred Mosque to the Farthest Mosque, whose precincts We did bless, in order that We might show him some of Our signs; surely, He, only He, is the Hearer, the Seer [of all things]. We gave Musa (Moses) the Book and made it a guidance to the Children of Israel, commanding, "Take no guardian beside Me." [They were] the offspring of those whom We bore with Nuh (Noah); surely he was a grateful servant.] (Al-Israa' 17:1–3)

These verses talk about three generations in a descending chronological order: the generation of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), that of Prophet Musa (Moses) (peace be upon him), and that of Prophet Nuh (Noah) (peace be upon him). All three generations have a common bond: love for Almighty Allah, belief in the same message, and endeavor to achieve the same goal.

Also, it is worth mentioning that Prophet Muhammad passed by three important sites during his Night Journey: Mount At-Tur in Sinai, which witnessed a number of events mentioned in the story of Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Children of Israel; the city of Bethlehem where Prophet Jesus was born; and the road between modern-day Palestine and Makkah, which was trod by Prophets Ibrahim (Abraham) and Isma`il (Ishmael) in their way to the place where they built the Ka`bah.

Prophet Muhammad started his journey of ascension from Al-Mi`raj Rock. In company with Angel Jibreel, he reached the seventh heaven within seconds. Today, a spacecraft traveling at a speed of 7,000 KPH takes three years to reach the nearest planet.

In a hadith narrated by Al-Bukhari, Prophet Muhammad said,

"Then he [Jibreel] took my hand and ascended with me to the nearest heaven. When I reached the nearest heaven, Jibreel said to the gatekeeper of the heaven, 'Open [the gate].' The gatekeeper asked, 'Who is it?' Jibreel answered, 'Jibreel.' He asked, 'Is there anyone with you?' Jibreel replied, 'Yes, Muhammad is with me.' He asked, 'Has he been sent for?' Jibreel said, 'Yes.' So, the gate was opened and we went over to the nearest heaven, and there we saw a man sitting with some people on his right and some on his left. When he looked toward his right, he laughed, and when he looked toward his left, he wept. Then he said, 'Welcome! O pious Prophet and pious son.' I asked Jibreel, 'Who is he?' He replied, 'He is Adam, and the people on his right and left are the souls of his offspring. Those on his right are the people of Paradise, and those on his left are the people of Hellfire; when he looks toward his right, he laughs, and when he looks toward his left, he weeps.'"

Prophet Adam (peace be upon him) is the father of humanity. This confirms the idea of unity of humans everywhere. Anyone can easily notice the recurrent emphasis on this notion throughout the journey of Al-Israa' and Al-Mi`raj.

Now, why is Prophet Adam laughing and crying? He is happy with those who learned from his experience and, at the same time, sad for those who did not. As we already know, his experience with Satan resembles a mathematical problem that has a model answer; it is something that one has to learn to resolve similar problems. Although other problems may appear different, the idea is the same: Keep away from the whispers of Satan.

Prophet Muhammad continued the narration. He said,

"Then, we ascended to the second heaven. Jibreel (peace be upon him) demanded that the gate of heaven be opened, and he was asked who he was. He answered, 'Jibreel.' Again, he was asked, 'Who is with you?' He replied, 'Muhammad.' It was said, 'Has he been sent for?' He replied, 'He has indeed been sent for.' The gate was opened."

"When I entered, Jesus, son of Mary, and John, son of Zachariah (peace be upon them) — cousins from the maternal side, each is the son of the other's aunt — welcomed me and prayed for my well-being."

"Then, I was taken to the third heaven and Jibreel asked for the opening [of the gate]. He was asked, 'Who are you?' He replied, 'Jibreel.' He was asked, 'Who is with you?' He replied, 'Muhammad.' It was said, 'Has he been sent for?' He replied, 'He has indeed been sent for.' The gate was opened for us, and I saw
Yusuf (Joseph) (peace be upon him), who had been given half of [world's] beauty. He welcomed me and prayed for my well-being. Then, he ascended with us to the fourth heaven."

"Jibreel (peace be upon him) asked for the gate to be opened, and it was said, 'Who is it?' He replied, 'Jibreel.' It was said, 'Who is with you?' He said, 'Muhammad.' It was said, 'Has he been sent for?' He replied, 'He has indeed been sent for.' The gate was opened for us, and lo Enoch was there. He welcomed me and prayed for my well-being. Then, he ascended with us to the fifth heaven."

"Jibreel demanded that the gate be opened. It was said, 'Who is it?' He replied, 'Jibreel.' It was said, 'Who is with you?' He replied, 'Muhammad.' It was said, 'Has he been sent for?' He replied, 'He has indeed been sent for.' The gate was opened for us, and then I was with Aaron. He welcomed me prayed for my well-being."

"Then, I was taken to the sixth heaven. Jibreel (peace be upon him) asked for the door to be opened. It was said, 'Who is it?' He replied, 'Jibreel.' It was said, 'Who is with you?' He replied, 'Muhammad.' It was said, 'Has he been sent for?' He replied, 'He has indeed been sent for.' The gate was opened for us, and there I was with Musa (Moses) (peace be upon him). He welcomed me and prayed for my well-being."

"Then, I was taken up to the seventh heaven. Jibreel demanded that the gate be opened. It was said, 'Who is it?' He said, 'Jibreel.' It was said, 'Who is with you?' He replied, 'Muhammad.' It was said, 'Has he been sent for?' He replied, 'He has indeed been sent for.' The gate was opened for us, and there I found Abraham (peace be upon him) reclining on Al-Bayt-ul-Ma`mur [Arabic for the much-frequented fane], and there enter it 70,000 angels everyday; they never visit [this place) again." (Al-Bukhari)

But, where are the rest of the Prophets? Why didn't Prophet Muhammad meet Prophet Nuh (Noah)? The fact is that the presence of those particular Prophets in the seven heavens is symbolic.

Some prophets were ordered by Allah to construct new societies and this was what Prophet Mohammad was going to do when he immigrated to Madinah. Other prophets migrated from their homelands and returned, like Prophets Yusuf (Joseph) and Musa (Moses). In fact, this was a prediction of what Prophet Muhammad was going to do two years after immigration to Madinah.

Some other prophets were subjected to persecution, while others were even subjected to murder or attempts of murder by their people. It was as if Almighty Allah had selected a number of Prophets whose lives foreshadowed future events in the life of Prophet Muhammad.

Al-Bayt-ul-Ma`mur is a place in the seventh heaven. It is located exactly above the Ka`bah and is identical to it. We perform Tawaf (circumambulation of the Ka`bah) on earth, and right above us, the angels perform Tawaf around Al-Bayt-ul-Ma`mur. Above both of these is Allah's throne. Those who visit Makkah for Hajj or `Umrah feel this. The Ka`bah is the holiest place on earth and a point directly connected to the holiest of places ever.

But, why is Prophet Abraham reclining on the wall of Al-Bayt-ul-Ma`mur? This is because he and his son, Isma`il (Ishmael), built the Ka`bah. The rule is that one reaps the fruits of his or her labors. He is leaning on it because he labored enough in his life, and now he can rest in the hereafter.

We should labor in this life so that Almighty Allah would allow us to rest on the Day of Judgment. That is life: We want to rest, but there is no comfort in it. Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal was once asked, "When does a person get to relax?" He replied, "It is the moment when he [or she] sets his [or her] foot in Paradise." There is no repose before that.

We should not let comfort be our purpose in life. We live this life to farm, learn, reform our societies, reproduce, worship Allah, help people, and take initiatives. Almighty Allah says,

[Verily, We have created man into toil and struggle.] (Al-Balad 90:4)

Thus, work, toil, and accept your destiny.

Prophet Muhammad said, "Seventy thousand angels enter into it [Al-Bayt-ul-Ma`mur] daily and, after they come out, they never return again." Can anyone imagine the number of angels? One cannot even compare the number of human beings to the number of angels. Look at this evocative hadith: Prophet Muhammad said,

"The heavens resound yearningly — worthy it is to sound yearningly and proudly — as no place in them is without an angel prostrate in adoration and worship before Almighty Allah." (Authenticated by Al-Albani)

However, Allah does not need our worship. We are the ones who need to worship Him to save ourselves from Hellfire. We need to kneel and prostrate ourselves before Him. The angels are many. Prophet Muhammad saw scores of them as he ascended through heavens. They are true worshippers who perform Prayer thoroughly. Now, can you see the kingdom of Allah? Do you understand what the Omnipotent, Almighty, Owner of the Kingdom, and Possessor of Majesty and Bounty mean?

The journey of Al-Israa' and Al-Mi`raj was a bounty and honor bestowed on Prophet Muhammad by Almighty Allah. It relieved his grief over the incident of At-Ta'if and the persecution of Quraish. Truly, Allah is Most Great and his kingdom is boundless.

* Excepted with modifications from the series "On the Path of the Beloved" available at
Amrkhaled.net.

taken from http://www.islamonline.net/English/In_Depth/Al-Israa_Al-Miraj/articles/2008/05.shtml

Feeling very tired

2008-07-28T21:21:00.003+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Lately i've been feeling very tired it's been work and home for a long time, I need a serene break, a vacation...

Something like...

By the way what do you do on holidays?
I know silly question... everyone goes for a vacation some time or other.

Ya I've been on "Vacations" too... but it's like going to my parents country to visit relatives, and travelling from one city to another in a matter of 12 days. And most of the times we're sick with diarrhea.

Sometimes we're even scared to go shopping thinking what'll happen if u need the loo while shopping? If any of you have been to Asian countries you'll know exactly how "pleasant" the public bathrooms can be, that is to say if you're lucky enough to find one :P
The solution comes in the form of diarrhea inhibiting tablets, an overdose of them :D Believe me you can't survive without them!!!
Our vacations leave us feeling more tired than when we're not on holidays... but at least the change of scenery makes a difference.

That's enough of my story, do tell me how you like to spend your Vacations, I'd love to hear from you all.

Wa Salaam

Basic crochet instructions - Lesson 1

2008-07-26T09:04:00.003+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

I am learning to crochet, so I thought I'd share it with you, and if you want to learn with me you are most welcome :) I'd love the company, and advice from any of you who are good at crocheting.

Beginner Crochet Block

What you need:

- Worsted-weight yarn, any color or colors
- Size G crochet hook;
- Yarn needle with big eye
- Small scissors

How to begin

Step 1: Hold crochet hook in right hand and make a slip knot on hook.

Step 2: Bring yarn over hook from back to front and grab it with hook.

Step 3: Draw hooked yarn through slip knot and onto hook. This makes one chain stitch.
Repeat Steps 2 and 3 in sequence 28 more times. You should have 29 chain stitches and one loop will remain on hook.

Step 4: Skip the first chain stitch.

Step 5: Insert hook into center of next chain stitch. Draw yarn through the chain stitch and up onto the hook. There are now 2 loops on hook.

Step 6: Bring yarn over hook from back to front, and draw it through both loops on hook. One loop remains on the hook, and you have just made one single crochet stitch.

Repeat Steps 5 and 6 in each of the remaining 27 chains--be sure to work in the very last chain. You have now completed one row of single crochet. Measure your work; it should be about 7" wide. If it is too wide, try again with fewer beginning chains. If it is too narrow, try again with more beginning chains.

Step 7: At the end of the row, make one chain stitch, then turn the work counter-clockwise, leaving the hook in the chain.

Now you can begin another row, working into the stitches of the previous row.

Step 8: Make one single crochet stitch in first stitch and in each remaining stitch of the previous row. Be sure to work into the last stitch. Chain 1, turn.

Repeat Step 8 until the block measures 9" long.

Finishing: Cut the yarn from the skein, leaving a 6" end. Draw the hook straight up, bringing the yarn through the remaining loop on the hook.

Thread yarn into yarn needle and weave back and forth through stitches to secure.

Here's a video on how to make a simple chain. The foundation of a pattern.
The lay in the video joins the ends to make a circle, this is done if you want to make something like a hat or a table mat.

and also an easier one

Words of wisdom & Salatul Hajaat

2008-07-23T18:22:00.000+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

The other day my uncle advised me with words of wisdom that will inshallah benefit all who read and follow this advice.

He asked me, why do u think people's prayers are not answered by Allah (SWT)?
I told him i'm not sure..
He replied it's because people are go such a rush to just finish their salaah and get on with their worldly life, and also because we have become used to reading duaa instead of actually making the duaa.

We need to ask Allah Taala for things that we need in a manner similar to that of a slave asking his master for something that he wants. he will pleed with his master, and because Allah (swt) is so Rehmaan and Raheem he will bestow on his sevants whatever he asks for.

Any duaa that is preceeded by Hamd (praise) of Allah (SWT) and Durood will Inshallah be accepted. The Following Duaa is recited with it.

Abullah ibn Abi Awfa (Allah be pleased with him) relates that the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “Whoever has a need with Allah, or with any human being, then let them perform ritual ablutions well and then pray two Rakats. After that, let them praise Allah and send blessings on the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). After this, let them say,

"La ilaha illallahul Halimul karim
Subhanallahi Rabbil Arshil Azim, Alhamdulillahi Rabbil Alamin, Asaluka Mujibaati Rahmatika Wa Azaa'ima maghfiratika Wal Ghanimata Min Kulli Birrin, Was salamata Min Kulli Ithmin, La Tada' Li Zanmban Illa Ghafartahu, Wa la Hamman Illa Farrajtahu, Wa la hajatan hiya Laka Ridhan Illa Qadhaitaha, Ya Arhamar Rahimeen."

There there no god but Allah the Clement and Wise.
There is no god but Allah the High and Mighty.
Glory be to Allah, Lord of the Tremendous Throne.
All praise is to Allah, Lord of the worlds.
I ask you (O Allah) everything that leads to your mercy, and your tremendous forgiveness, enrichment in all good, and freedom from all sin.
Do not leave a sin of mine (O Allah), except that you forgive it, nor any concern except that you create for it an opening, nor any need in which there is your good pleasure except that you fulfill it, O Most Merciful!”

(Related by Tirmidhi and Ibn Maja. The Hadith has some weakness, but it is slight: such Hadiths are acted upon for virtuous deeds (fada’il al-a`mal) by general agreement of the scholars)

Hakim has narrated a tradition in his famous Al Mustadrak which states, 'Uthman bin Hunaif narrates that a blind man came to the Prophet (S.A.S.) and said, 'supplicate to Allah to grant me relief'. The Prophet said, 'If you wish I would delay this and it would be better for you and if you wish, I will supplicate for you'. The man said, 'Supplicate'. The Prophet (S.A.S.) then ordered him to perform his wuzu in a good manner, then perform two rakaats and supplicate with this dua. He said, say, 'Allahumma inni As'aluka ………….'

Having quoted this hadith, Hakim states, 'This hadith is sound (saheeh) and it is in accordance to the conditions laid by Imam Bukhari and Muslim, but they did not narrate it. (Al Mustadrak Vol. 1 Pg. 424). Imam Tirmizi has also recorded it and said, 'This hadith is good and sound). (Tirmizi).

The hadith shows that the man had a need and he was told by the Prophet (S.A.S.) to perform wuzu, perform two rakaats and supplicate to Allah in the words taught to him.

Also let me mention here that Allah Ta'ala says in the Quraan:

"When My worshipers ask you about Me, I am near. I answer the supplication of the suppliant when he calls to Me; therefore, let them respond to Me and let them believe in Me, in order that they will be righteous." [al-Baqarah 2:186]

And Allah Ta'ala Knows best.

Salaah of the ECLIPSE

2008-07-19T13:28:00.010+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

The topic of the Eclipse is a very interesting one. The eclipse in Arabic is called KHUSUF.

WHAT IS AN ECLIPSE ?:(scientific explanation)
Passage of an astronomical body through the shadow of another.

The term is usually employed for solar and lunar eclipses, which may be either partial or total, but also, for example, for eclipses by Jupiter of its satellites. An eclipse of a star by a body in the Solar System is called an occultation.

A SOLAR ECLIPSE occurs when the Moon passes in front of the Sun as seen from Earth, and can happen only at new Moon. During a total eclipse the Sun's corona can be seen.
A total solar eclipse can last up to 7.5 minutes. When the Moon is at its farthest from Earth it does not completely cover the face of the Sun, leaving a ring of sunlight visible. This
is an annular eclipse (from the Latin word annulus `ring´). Between two and five solar eclipses occur each year.

A LUNAR ECLIPSE occurs when the Moon passes into the shadow of the Earth, becoming dim until emerging from the shadow. Lunar eclipses may be partial or total, and they can
happen only at full Moon. Total lunar eclipses last for up to 100 minutes; the maximum number each year is three.

According to the majority of learned jurists, prayer(salaat) on the occasion of an eclipse is Sunnat.According to Abu Hanifa(R.A.) ,there are two rakaats of salaat for SOLAR ECLIPSE in congregation(jamaat) without any sermon(khutba),and two rakaats for LUNAR ECLIPSE without congregation.
According to Imaam Shafiee(R.A.),the salaat shall be said in congregation with a khutba(sermon).

Method of making this Salaah:

According to the hadith, narrated by `A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her), salat al-kusoof is two rak`ahs; however, the worshiper bows twice in each rak`ah instead of once.

One then says “Allahu akbar” and bows down a second time but not so long. As one rises up one says, “sami` Allahu liman hamidah, rabbana lakal-hamd.”

Salat al-khusoof (lunar eclipse Prayer) is the same as salatal-kusoof (solar eclipse Prayer). The recital of al-Fatihah may be performed aloud or silently.

Excerpted from: www.usc.edu

SalatAl-Kusoof(The Eclipse Prayer)

Ruling: Most of the people of knowledge regard it as a confirmed sunnah (mu’akkadah). Imam Abu Hanifah said it was obligatory (wajib), while imam Malik regarded it as equal to salat al-jumu`ah (Friday Prayer) in importance.

Form: The eclipse Prayer consists of two rak`ahs. Various forms of the rak`ahs have been narrated, but the most authentic hadiths indicate that each rak`ahhas two standings (qiyam), two instances of recitation from the Qur’an (qira’ah), two bowings (ruku`), and two prostrations (sujud). This is the view of the majority of the people of knowledge, including Imams Malik, Shafi`i, and Ahmad. The number of ruku` in each rak`ah has also been narrated as three, four, or more; the Hanafi scholars prefer only one ruku`, just as for the daily Prayers. However, the most authentic hadiths support the majority view, given above.

Congregation: The sunnah is for the Prayer to be held in congregation in the mosque, although individuals who cannot reach the congregation may pray alone. Women may pray at home or attend the congregation.

Khutbah (sermon): The imam gives this after the congregational Prayer, based on the admonition of the Messenger of Allah, part of which is quoted at the beginning of this article. The sermon is recommended according to Imam ash-Shafi`i and the majority of the other imams of Hadith, while the Hanafi scholars say that the sermon is not part of the Eclipse Prayer. They regard the Prophet’s admonition as a general reminder and not a formal sermon. If delivered, the sermon should contain praise of Allah, the two testimonies of faith, and reminders about Paradise and the Fire.

Timing: The time for the Eclipse Prayer lasts throughout the eclipse. The Prayer must be started during the eclipse, although it can end after the eclipse is over. The sermon is delivered after the Prayer, whether or not the eclipse is still in progress. After the eclipse, the requirement and time for the Prayer no longer exists and therefore it is invalid to pray salatal-kusoof outside the time of the eclipse. Imams Abu Hanifah and Ahmad have stipulated that the Eclipse Prayer cannot be held during times when Prayer is normally reprehensible, i.e., when the sun is rising or setting over the horizon, or when it reaches its zenith. Other imams say that the recommendation of the Eclipse Prayer takes precedence over these discouraged times.

Length: The Eclipse Prayer should be longer than normal daily, weekly, or annual Prayers. The Eclipse Prayer performed by the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was extremely long: it started soon after the beginning of the eclipse and ended after the eclipse was over. His Prayer included four instances of recitation from the Qur’an, with the first and longest of them being reckoned as “about as lengthy as surat al-Baqarah.” Further, the qiyam, ruku` and sujud were described as longer than any others seen performed by him. However, the imam should as always bear in mind the capabilities of his congregation, and the Prayer should not be prolonged excessively for the old and weak amongst them. There is no requirement to prolong the Prayer throughout the eclipse, nor to pray extra rak`ahs. The two-rak`ahs Prayer is made as long as is reasonable, and the remainder of the eclipse is spent in supplication, general mention and remembrance of Allah (including recitation of the Qur’an), and giving charity.

Detailed Description of the Prayer

1. There is no Adhan or Iqamah for the Prayer, although the Prayer can be announced by calling, “As-Salatu Jami`ah” (“The congregation is gathering for Prayer”).

2. The imam begins the Prayer with takbir, as usual, followed by recitation of Surat Al-Fatihah and one or more further surahs. The recitation can be loud (majority view) or silent.

3. The imam does ruku` with takbir, as usual.

4. The imam rises from ruku` saying "Sami` Allahu liman hamidah," followed by the usual dhikr.

5. Remaining in the standing posture, the imam again recites Surat Al-Fatihah and one or more other surahs.

6. The imam goes into ruku` with takbir.

7. The imam rises from ruku` saying “Sami` Allahu liman hamidah,” followed by the usual dhikr.

8. The imam performs the two prostrations as usual, except that the prostrations should be lengthy, as should be the sitting between them.

9. The imam rises for the second rak`ah, which is performed in the same manner as the first.

10. Hence there are a total of four of each of the following: standing straight (with recitation), bowing down, and prostrating. The sunnah is for each standing straight, bowing down, and prostration to be shorter than the previous one.

Excerpted, with slight modifications, from: www.witness-pioneer.org

Hadith on eclipse:
Al-Mughirah ibn Shu`bah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the the sun eclipsed during the lifetime of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) on the day when Ibrahim, the Prophet’s son, died. Upon this the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said the following:
"Verily the sun and the moon are two signs among the signs of Allah. They do not eclipse on account of the death of anyone or on account of the birth of anyone. So when you see them (in a state of eclipse), supplicate Allah and observe the Prayer till it is over." (Reported by Muslim)

Please note everyone that it is the duty of the Muslim to shun all forms of superstitions from his life and to avoid linking the existence of this natural phenomena to certain physical calamities or disabilities that may happen to him.

The Muslim reaction to lunar and solar eclipses can be summarized as follows:

1. Solar and lunar eclipses are reminders of the Day of Judgment, when the sun, moon, and stars will all lose their light. [When the sight is dazed, and the moon is buried in darkness, and the sun and moon are joined together: Man will say on that day, ‘Where is the refuge?’] (Al-Qiyamah 75: 7-10)

2. Being a reminder of the Last Day, the eclipse is a time for Prayer, charitable acts, and generally remembering Allah and seeking His forgiveness.

3. To believe that heavenly bodies (sun, moon, planets, stars) have power over events and people’s fates and fortunes is to reject Allah by ascribing partners to Him. [And among His Signs are the night and the day, the sun and the moon. Prostrate neither to the sun nor to the moon, but prostrate to Allah who created them, if it is truly Him you worship.] (Fussilat 41: 37) Thus, one cannot worship God by worshiping creation—whether the devotions are offered to nature, heavenly bodies, idols, or human beings. The worship of something or someone created in whatever form, Muslims consider to be an underlying error of many groups active in the UK, from pagans, Druids and New Age cultures (for whom the eclipse is a sacred event) to the numerous Christian denominations. The popular but false, empty faith in astrology, so widespread in the popular press, is also condemned in Islam. Islam teaches people to constantly turn to the Source of all events: Allah.

Easy Dhikr

2008-07-18T16:47:00.003+02:00

Bismil Laahir Rahmaa-nir Raheem.
In the Name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful,

Here are some easy duaas from the Quraan that can be read even while menstruating...

Rabbanaa aatinaa fi ad-dunya hasanatan wa fi al-aakhirati hasanatan wa qinaa adhaaba an-naar
(Our Lord, grant us good in this world and good in the next world and save us from the torments of the Hellfire).

Rabbanaa taqabbal minnaa innaka anta as-samee`u al-`aleem wa tub `alaynaa innaka anta at-tawwaab ar-raheem
(Our Lord, accept this work of ours, for verily You are All-Hearing, All-Knowing; and grant us repentance, for You are the Relenting, the Merciful).

More to follow Inshallah.

Wa Salaam

Asma al-Husna, The most beautiful names of Allah (SWT)

2008-07-16T07:15:00.005+02:00

In the Name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful

أسماء الله الحسنى

ASMÂ ALLÂH UL HUSNÂ
Allah! there is no god but He! To Him belong the Most Beautiful Names. (Qur'an 20:8)

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Verily, there are ninety-nine names of God, one hundred minus one. He who enumerates [and believes in them and the one God behind] them would get into Paradise."

(Sahih Muslim, Vol. 4, no. 1410)

To listen to the 99 Most Beautiful Names of Allah follow the following links:
1. http://islam.org/audio/Asmaaul_Husna.ram

2.http://islam.org/audio/Asmaaul_Husna2.ram

This is a beautiful recitation found on YouTube with the meanings of the Beautiful Names

1. Allah

* Allah, He who has the Godhood which is the power to create the entities.

2. Ar-Rahmaan

* The Compassionate, The Beneficient, The One who has plenty of mercy for the believers and the blasphemers in this world and especially for the believers in the hereafter.

3. Ar-Raheem

* The Merciful, The One who has plenty of mercy for the believers.

4. Al-Malik

* The King, The Sovereign Lord, The One with the complete Dominion, the One Whose Dominion is clear from imperfection.

5. Al-Quddoos

* The Holy, The One who is pure from any imperfection and clear from children and adversaries.

6. As-Salaam

* The Source of Peace, The One who is free from every imperfection.

7. Al-Mu'min

* Guardian of Faith, The One who witnessed for Himself that no one is God but Him. And He witnessed for His believers that they are truthful in their belief that no one is God but Him.

8. Al-Muhaimin

* The Protector, The One who witnesses the saying and deeds of His creatures.

9. Al-^Azeez

* The Mighty, The Strong, The Defeater who is not defeated.

10. Al-Jabbaar

* The Compeller, The One that nothing happens in His Dominion except that which He willed.

11. Al-Mutakabbir

* The Majestic, The One who is clear from the attributes of the creatures and from resembling them.

12. Al-Khaaliq

* The Creator, The One who brings everything from non-existence to existence.

13. Al-Bari'

* The Evolver, The Maker, The Creator who has the Power to turn the entities.

14. Al-Musawwir

* The Fashioner, The One who forms His creatures in different pictures.

15. Al-Ghaffaar

* The Great Forgiver, The Forgiver, The One who forgives the sins of His slaves time and time again.

16. Al-Qahhaar

* The Subduer, The Dominant, The One who has the perfect Power and is not unable over anything.

17. Al-Wahhaab

* The Bestower, The One who is Generous in giving plenty without any return. He is everything that benefits whether Halal or Haram.

18. Al-Razzaaq

* The Sustainer, The Provider.

19. Al-Fattaah

* The Opener, The Reliever, The Judge, The One who opens for His slaves the closed worldy and religious matters.

20. Al-^Aleem

* The All-knowing, The Knowledgeable; The One nothing is absent from His knowledge.

21. Al-Qaabid

* The Constricter, The Retainer, The Withholder, The One who constricts the sustenance by His wisdomand expands and widens it with His Generosity and Mercy.

22. Al-Baasit

* The Expander, The Englarger, The One who constricts the sustenance by His wisdomand expands and widens it with His Generosity and Mercy.

23. Al-Khaafid

* The Abaser, The One who lowers whoever He willed by His Destruction and raises whoever He willed by His Endowment.

24. Ar-Raafi^

* The Exalter, The Elevator, The One who lowers whoever He willed by His Destruction and raises whoever He willed by His Endowment.

25. Al-Mu^iz

* The Honorer, He gives esteem to whoever He willed, hence there is no one to degrade Him; And He degrades whoever He willed, hence there is no one to give Him esteem.

26. Al-Muthil

* The Dishonorer, The Humiliator, He gives esteem to whoever He willed, hence there is no one to degrade Him; And He degrades whoever He willed, hence there is no one to give Him esteem.

27. As-Samee^

* The All-Hearing, The Hearer, The One who Hears all things that are heard by His Eternal Hearing without an ear, instrument or organ.

28 Al-Baseer

* The All-Seeing, The One who Sees all things that are seen by His Eternal Seeing without a pupil or any other instrument.

29. Al-Hakam

* The Judge, He is the Ruler and His judgment is His Word.

30. Al-^Adl

* The Just, The One who is entitled to do what He does.

31. Al-Lateef

* The Subtle One, The Gracious, The One who is kind to His slaves and endows upon them.

32. Al-Khabeer

* The Aware, The One who knows the truth of things.

33. Al-Haleem

* The Forebearing, The Clement, The One who delays the punishment for those who deserve it and then He might forgive them.

34. Al-^Azeem

* The Great One, The Mighty, The One deserving the attributes of Exaltment, Glory, Extolement,and Purity from all imperfection.

35. Al-Ghafoor

* The All-Forgiving, The Forgiving, The One who forgives a lot.

36. Ash-Shakoor

* The Grateful, The Appreciative, The One who gives a lot of reward for a little obedience.

37. Al-^Aliyy

* The Most High, The Sublime, The One who is clear from the attributes of the creatures.

38. Al-Kabeer

* The Most Great, The Great, The One who is greater than everything in status.

39. Al-Hafeez

* The Preserver, The Protector, The One who protects whatever and whoever He willed to protect.

40. Al-Muqeet

* The Maintainer, The Guardian, The Feeder, The Sustainer, The One who has the Power.

41. Al-Haseeb

* The Reckoner, The One who gives the satisfaction.

42. Aj-Jaleel

* The Sublime One, The Beneficent, The One who is attributed with greatness of Power and Glory of status.

43. Al-Kareem

* The Generous One, The Bountiful, The Gracious, The One who is attributed with greatness of Power and Glory of status.

44. Ar-Raqeeb

* The Watcher, The Watchful, The One that nothing is absent from Him. Hence it's meaning is related to the attribute of Knowledge.

45. Al-Mujeeb

* The Responsive, The Hearkener, The One who answers the one in need if he asks Him and rescues the yearner if he calls upon Him.

46. Al-Wasi^

* The Vast, The All-Embracing, The Knowledgeable.

47. Al-Hakeem

* The Wise, The Judge of Judges, The One who is correct in His doings.

48. Al-Wadood

* The Loving, The One who loves His believing slaves and His believing slaves love Him. His love to His slaves is His Will to be merciful to them and praise them:Hence it's meaning is related to the attributes of the Will and Kalam (His attribute with which He orders and forbids and spoke to Muhammad and Musa -peace be upon them- . It is not a sound nor a language nor a letter.).

49. Al-Majeed

* The Most Glorious One, The Glorious, The One who is with perfect Power, High Status, Compassion, Generosity and Kindness.

50. Al-Ba^ith

* The Reserrector, The Raiser (from death), The One who resurrects His slaves after death for reward and/or punishment.

51. Ash-Shaheed

* The Witness, The One who nothing is absent from Him.

52. Al-Haqq

* The Truth, The True, The One who truly exists.

53. Al-Wakeel

* The Trustee, The One who gives the satisfaction and is relied upon.

54. Al-Qawiyy

* The Most Strong, The Strong, The One with the complete Power.

55. Al-Mateen

* The Firm One, The One with extreme Power which is un-interrupted and He does not get tired.

56. Al-Waliyy

* The Protecting Friend, The Supporter.

57. Al-Hameed

* The Praiseworthy, The praised One who deserves to be praised.

58. Al-Muhsee

* The Counter, The Reckoner, The One who the count of things are known to him.

59. Al-Mubdi'

* The Originator, The One who started the human being. That is, He created him.

60. Al-Mu^eed

* The Reproducer, The One who brings back the creatures after death.

61. Al-Muhyi

* The Restorer, The Giver of Life, The One who took out a living human from semen that does not have a soul. He gives life by giving the souls back to the worn out bodies on the resurrection day and He makes the hearts alive by the light of knowledge.

62. Al-Mumeet

* The Creator of Death, The Destroyer, The One who renders the living dead.

63. Al-Hayy

* The Alive, The One attributed with a life that is unlike our life and is not that of a combination of soul, flesh or blood.

64. Al-Qayyoom

* The Self-Subsisting, The One who remains and does not end.

65. Al-Waajid

* The Perceiver, The Finder, The Rich who is never poor. Al-Wajd is Richness.

66. Al-Waahid

* The Unique, The One, The One without a partner.

67. Al-Ahad

* The One.

68.As-Samad

* The Eternal, The Independent, The Master who is relied upon in matters and reverted to in ones needs.

69. Al-Qaadir

* The Able, The Capable, The One attributed with Power.

70. Al-Muqtadir

* The Powerful, The Dominant, The One with the perfect Power that nothing is withheld from Him.

71. Al-Muqaddim

* The Expediter, The Promoter, The One who puts things in their right places. He makes ahead what He wills and delays what He wills.

72. Al-Mu'akh-khir

* The Delayer, the Retarder, The One who puts things in their right places. He makes ahead what He wills and delays what He wills.

73. Al-'Awwal

* The First, The One whose Existence is without a beginning.

74. Al-'Akhir

* The Last, The One whose Existence is without an end.

75. Az-Zaahir

* The Manifest, The One that nothing is above Him and nothing is underneath Him, hence He exists without a place. He, The Exalted, His Existence is obvious by proofs and He is clear from the delusions of attributes of bodies.

76. Al-Baatin

* The Hidden, The One that nothing is above Him and nothing is underneath Him, hence He exists without a place. He, The Exalted, His Existence is obvious by proofs and He is clear from the delusions of attributes of bodies.

77. Al-Walee

* The Governor, The One who owns things and manages them.

78. Al-Muta^ali

* The Most Exalted, The High Exalted, The One who is clear from the attributes of the creation.

79. Al-Barr

* The Source of All Goodness, The Righteous, The One who is kind to His creatures, who covered them with His sustenance and specified whoever He willed among them by His support, protection, and special mercy.

80. At-Tawwaab

* The Acceptor of Repentance, The Relenting, The One who grants repentance to whoever He willed among His creatures and accepts his repentance.

81. Al-Muntaqim

* The Avenger, The One who victoriously prevails over His enemies and punishes them for their sins. It may mean the One who destroys them.

82. Al-^Afuww

* The Pardoner, The Forgiver, The One with wide forgiveness.

83. Ar-Ra'uf

* The Compassionate, The One with extreme Mercy. The Mercy of Allah is His will to endow upon whoever He willed among His creatures.

84. Malik Al-Mulk

* The Eternal Owner of Sovereignty, The One who controls the Dominion and gives dominion to whoever He willed.

85. Thul-Jalali wal-Ikram

* The Lord of Majesty and Bounty, The One who deserves to be Exalted and not denied.

86. Al-Muqsit

* The Equitable, The One who is Just in His judgment.

87. Aj-Jaami^

* The Gatherer, The One who gathers the creatures on a day that there is no doubt about, that is the Day of Judgment.

88. Al-Ghaniyy

* The Self-Sufficient, The One who does not need the creation.

89. Al-Mughni

* The Enricher, The One who satisfies the necessities of the creatures.

90. Al-Maani^

* The Preventer, The Withholder.

91. Ad-Daarr

* The Distresser, The One who makes harm reach to whoever He willed and benefit to whoever He willed.

92. An-Nafi^

* The Propitious, The One who makes harm reach to whoever He willed and benefit to whoever He willed.

93. An-Noor

* The Light, The One who guides.

94. Al-Haadi

* The Guide, The One whom with His Guidance His belivers were guided, and with His Guidance the living beings have been guided to what is beneficial for them and protected from what is harmful to them.

95. Al-Badi^

* The Incomparable, The One who created the creation and formed it without any preceding example.

96. Al-Baaqi

* The Everlasting, The One that the state of non-existence is impossible for Him.

97. Al-Waarith

* The Supreme Inheritor, The Heir, The One whose Existence remains.

98. Ar-Rasheed

* The Guide to the Right Path, The One who guides.

99. As-Saboor

* The Patient, The One who does not quickly punish the sinners.

"...There is nothing whatever like unto Him, and He is the One that hears and sees (all things). Qur'an [42:11]
(Arabic transliteration: Laysa Kamithlihi Shayun Wa Huwa As-Sami' ul-Basir)

Ten Minute make-up

2008-07-14T08:44:00.003+02:00

Assalaamu alaikum!

Today i'll be presenting a ten minute make up regime perfect for a girls only party, or a girls get together.

1. Moisturize skin well

2. Apply liquid powder foundation. Dot on or smooth over. Blend well.

3. Apply eye liner near lashes

4. Mascara: apply a light coat to avoid smudges

5. Blusher: smile n quick sweep on each cheek

6. lipstick: Apply - blot again apply blot

7. Apply a layer of gloss onto the lipstick for some shine.

I found this company that sells organic make up. Here's the address: http://www.econveybeauty.com/
The organic make up is the closest i got to finding halaal make up
I just love their name NVEY :D

I haven't ordered from the company, as i don't use a lot of makeup myself just sometimes. sometimes I use a kohl pencil and a lipstick made with castor oil, beeswax, or lanolin.
I have not tried mineral make up and i don't know if they're Halaal...

Enjoy!

Please check out the following site: http://www.thegreenguide.com/doc/119/makeup it's about how some makeup isn't tested and can be really harmful for your skin.
Please check your cosmetics before you buy!!!

If you buy the wrong cosmetics you could be left with pigmented skin, and dark patches!!!

That also reminds me a lot of girls bleach their skins to look lighter in coulour and more beautiful, some of these bleach creams can be extremely harmful for your skin so please watch out!!!.
A natural skin whitener is a bit of milk mixed with finely ground almonds applied to the skin as a mask after cleansing. Do remember to wash it off after a few minutes!!! ;D

oh ya.. as my Dear Mama always says... A beautiful person is the one who does beautiful deeds!

anyone know any remedy for cold sores?

2008-07-12T13:54:00.003+02:00

Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullai wa Barakatuhu,

Every winter I have a tendency of getting cold sores both on my hands and my feet...
I keep them well moisturised, but this still this happens... hmmm...

Anyone know any remedies??

That also reminds me, the sun feels so wonderful in winter...that automatically one ends up saying Alhamdolillah...
Just imagine a winter without sun... it would be just terrible.....

Three good islamic websites

2008-07-09T15:25:00.004+02:00

Assalaamu alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

There are a few good islamic websites that i like to visit and thought i'd share them with you all.

The first is www.islamonline.net this website contains info with what's currently happening in the world as well as question answer sessions. The questions are answered by qualified muslim people, and their answers are backed by Quraan and Sunnah.

The second website is www.readingislam.com. On this site i've found some good articles on the life of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) and his family.

The third is www.islamway.com they have a good collection of Quraan recitation by different recitors, as well as good audio lectures.

I'd like to know from you, what islamic websites do you like?

Footprints

2008-07-07T10:40:00.003+02:00

Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu,

The following is very inspirational and goes with any faith...

One night a man had a dream. He dreamed he was walking along the beach with the Lord. Across the sky flashed scenes from his life. For each scene, he noticed two sets of footprints in the sand: one belonging to him, and the other to the Lord.

When the last scene of his life flashed before him, he looked back at the footprints in the sand. He noticed that many times along the path me his life there was only one set of footprints, he also noticed that it happened at the lowest and saddest times of his life.

This really bothered him and he questioned the Lord about it. "Lord, you You said once I Decide to follow You, You'd walk with me all the way. But I Have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life, there is only one set of footprints. I don't understand why when i needed You most You would leave me. "

The Lord replied, "My precious child, I love you and I would never leave you. During your tion of trial and depression when you only see one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you. "
Author unknown.

Sometimes we are so quick to judge Allah yet he's always by our side!

2008-07-06T16:29:00.002+02:00

Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Sorry all i haven't posted for a few days... I've been going through a very rough patch, and today i'm feeling much better.

I came close to a total breakdown, and alhamdolillah through reading the duaa i mentioned in the previous post, I have been guided once again, and have the strength to be patient with all That Allah SWT puts me thru, knowing that inshallah he'll see me through this too as long as i don't let the shaytaan win.

Please remember me in your Duaas.

Jazakallah khairun

A test from Allah

2008-07-02T22:15:00.002+02:00

Be sure we shall test you with something of fear and hunger, some loss in goods, lives, and the fruits (of your toil), but give glad tidings to those who patiently persevere.

And who say, when affected by calamity: 'To Allah we belong and to him is our final return' (Inna Lillahi wa inna elaihi Ra'ajeoon)

They are those on whom are blessings from their Lord, and mercy And they are the ones that recieve guidance.
Surah Baqarah v155- 157

Conditions of Nikkah

2008-06-30T22:30:00.000+02:00

Assalamu-Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Todays post is really short but very very important.

A lot of girls out there don't know that a girl can set many conditions for the conditions of marriage which the boy she's getting married to has to fulfil.
I would urge the girls to think very carefully about the consequences of the conditions before they set any them.

One very important condition on the nikkah papers should be that a girl has the right to a divorce.
I know for a fact that in the asian continent the men cancel the entire section that gives the girl the right to divorce,(on the nikkah papers) or to set any conditions!

The following link is to a fellow blogger's page where she discusses how men use the threat of divorce against their wives to make them do things!
http://organicmuslimah.blogspot.com/2007/12/my-glass-of-water-or-your-divorced.html

Here's a comment from Umm Attiya on the same page, and believe me it's very very good piece of advise for any girl going to get married...
Hope it makes you smile the way it made me smile ;)

Anonymous; Kinda on the same topic, the imam of my community told a story the other day:

A grandmother was giving her soon-to-wed daughter and her intended husband some advice. She told the young woman to try not to get angry with the new husband, and to take up some hobby like crochet to get her mind off it if she did. The grandmother also told them not to keep secrets from each other. So the young woman and the man married and lived together for 60 years with not any arugument between them, and they kept no secrets from each other.

Eventually the wife became very ill and was near to death, and she and her husband decided to put their affairs in order. She called her husband to her bedside and told him she had something to tell him, something that she had kept hidden for all the years of their marriage. She directed him to get a small box from the closet and open it. He got the box and opened it in front of her. It contained 2 small crocheted doilies and $25,000.

The husband remembered the advice the grandmother had given them years ago and tears came to his eyes as he looked at the two doilies. He said to her, "You made these doilies when you were angry at me, and there are only two." The wife looked tenderly at her husband and said he was right. Then the man looked at the money and said, "But what about this money? Why have you kept this secret from me for 60 years?" The wife put a gentle old hand to his face and said, "This is the money from all the other doilies I sold in the past 60 years.