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useful website to share with non-Muslim to learn about Islam. live chat is available too

www.islamreligion.com

Allah's sacred month of Muharram

Allah's sacred month of Muharram is a blessed and important month. It is the first month of the Hijri calendar and is one of the four sacred months concerning which Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"Verily, the number of months with Allah is twelve months (in a year), so it was ordained by Allah on the Day when He created the heavens and the earth; of them, four are sacred. That is the right religion, so wrong not yourselves therein ... " [Al-Qur'an 9:36]

Abu Bakrah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Prophet, peace be upon him, said:"The year is twelve months of which four are sacred, the three consecutive months of Dhu'l-Qa'dah, Dhu'l-Hijjah and Muharram, and Rajab Mudar which comes between Jumada and Sha'ban." [Reported by al-Bukhari]

Abu Hurayrah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, said: "The best fasting after Ramadhan is fasting Allah's month of Muharram." [Reported by Muslim] ... this hadith is meant to encourage increasing one's fasting during Muharram, without meaning that one should fast for the entire month.

FASTING 'ASHURA WHEN ONE STILL HAS DAYS TO MAKE UP FROM RAMADHAN

The fuqaha' differed concerning the ruling on observing voluntary fasts before a person has made up days that he or she did not fast in Ramadhan.

The Hanafi school said that it is permissible to observe voluntary fasts before making up days from Ramadhan, and it is not makruh to do so, because the missed days do not have to be made up straight away.

The Maliki and Shafi'i schools said that it is permissible but is makruh, because it means that one is delaying something obligatory.

The Hanbali school said that it is haram to observe a voluntary fast before making up any fasts missed in Ramadhan, and that a voluntary fast in such cases does not count, even if there is plenty of time to make up the obligatory fast. So a person must give priority to the obligatory fasts until he has made them up. [Al-Mawsu'ah al-Fiqhiyyah]

Muslims must hasten to make up any missed fasts after Ramadhan, so that they will be able to fast 'Arafah and 'Ashura without any problem. If a person fasts 'Arafah and 'Ashura with the intention from the night before of making up for a missed fast, this will be good enough to make up what he has missed, for the bounty of Allah is great.

BID'AHS COMMON ON 'ASHURA

Shaykh ul-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy on him, was asked about the things that people do on 'Ashura, such as wearing kohl, taking a bath (ghusl), wearing henna, shaking hands with one another, cooking grains (hubub), showing happiness and so on. Was any of this reported from the Prophet, peace be upon him, in a sahih hadith, or not? If nothing to that effect was reported in a sahih hadith, is doing these things bid'ah, or not? Is there any basis for what the other group do, such as grieving and mourning, going without anything to drink, eulogizing and wailing, reciting in a crazy manner, and rending their garments?

His reply was:

"Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds. Nothing to that effect has been reported in any sahih hadith from the Prophet, peace be upon him, or from his Companions. None of the Imams of the Muslims encouraged or recommended such things, neither the four imams, nor any others. No reliable scholars have narrated anything like this, neither from the Prophet, peace be upon him, nor from the Companions, nor from those after them; neither in any sahih report or in a da'if (weak) report; neither in the books of Sahih, nor in as-Sunan, nor in the Musnad. No hadith of this nature was known during the best centuries, but some of the later narrators reported ahadith like the one which says, 'Whoever puts kohl in his eyes on the day of 'Ashura will not suffer from eye disease in that year, and whoever takes a bath (does ghusl) on the day of 'Ashura will not get sick in that year,' and so on. They also reported a fabricated hadith that is falsely attributed to the Prophet, peace be upon him, which says, 'Whoever is generous to his family on the day of 'Ashura, Allah will be generous to him for the rest of the year.' Reporting all of this from the Prophet, peace be upon him, is tantamount to lying."

Then he discussed in brief the tribulations that had occurred in the early days of this Ummah and the killing of al-Husayn, may Allah be pleased with him, and what the various sects had done because of this. Then he said:

"An ignorant, wrongful group – who were either heretics and hypocrites, or misguided and misled – made a show of allegiance to him and the members of his household, so they took the day of 'Ashura as a day of mourning and wailing, in which they openly displayed the rituals of Jahiliyyah such as slapping their cheeks and rending their garments, grieving in the manner of the Jahiliyyah ... The Shaytan made this attractive to those who are misled, so they took the day of 'Ashura as an occasion of mourning, when they grieve and wail, recite poems of grief and tell stories filled with lies. Whatever truth there may be in these stories serves no purpose other than the renewal of their grief and sectarian feeling, and the stirring up of hatred and hostility among the Muslims, which they do by cursing those who came before them ... The evil and harm that they do to the Muslims cannot be enumerated by any man, no matter how eloquent he is. Some others – either Nasibis who oppose and have enmity towards al-Husayn and his family or ignorant people who try to fight evil with evil, corruption with corruption, lies with lies and bid'ah with bid'ah – opposed them by fabricating reports in favour of making the day of 'Ashura a day of celebration, by wearing kohl and henna, spending money on one's children, cooking special dishes and other things that are done on 'Eid and special occasions. These people took the day of 'Ashura as a festival like 'Eid, whereas the others took it as a day of mourning. Both are wrong, and both go against the Sunnah, even though the other group (those who take it as a day of mourning) are worse in intention and more ignorant and more plainly wrong ... Neither the Prophet, peace be upon him, nor his successors did any of these things on the day of 'Ashura, they neither made it a day of mourning nor a day of celebration ...

As for the other things, such as cooking special dishes with or without grains, or wearing new clothes, or spending money on one's family, or buying the year's supplies on that day, or doing special acts of worship such as special prayers or deliberately slaughtering an animal on that day, or saving some of the meat of the sacrifice to cook with grains, or wearing kohl and henna, or taking a bath (ghusl), or shaking hands with one another, or visiting one another, or visiting the mosques and shrines and so on all of this is reprehensible bid'ah and is wrong. None of it has anything to do with the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, or the way of the Khulafa' ar-Rashidun. It was not approved of by any of the imams of the Muslims, not Malik, not at-Thawri, not al-Layth ibn Sa'd, not Abu Hanifah, not al-Awza'i, not al-Shafi'i, not Ahmad ibn Hanbal, not Ishaq ibn Rahwayh, not any of the Imams and Scholars of the Muslims." [Al-Fatawa al-Kubra]

My audio files on the internet (khotab, recitation)

I found a website to upload and save my audio files on it ...

http://www.archive.org

Just type my name "Ayman El-Najjar" to get all he audio files I uploaded

or go try this link http://www.archive.org/search.php?query=ayman%20el-najjar

few Friday's sermons delivered at Richmond mosque, two private lectures, and the recitation of the first two nights of Ramadan 1432

شدة البرد من فيح جهنم

في الصحيحين من حديث ابي هريرة رضي الله عنه عن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قال " اشتكت النار الى ربها , فقالت : يارب اكل بعضي بعضا , فاذن لها بنفسين , نفس في الشتاء، ونفس بالصيف , فاشد ماتجدون من الحر من سموم جهنم , واشد ما تجدون من البرد من زمهرير جهنم "

Ghurbatul-Al-Islam ...

Abû Hurayrah relates that Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said: “Islam began strange, and it will become strange again just like it was at the beginning, so blessed are the strangers.” Sahîh Muslim

This hadîth tells us that a time will come when you and I would feel strange to be on righteousness in terms of knowledge and deeds, and thus we finds few who agree with us and uphold the same beliefs and deeds but the masses will disagree and even look at us as stranger and make fun of us or ridicule us. People won't listen to us when we calls them to adhere to righteousness as learned from the Book of Allah and from the Sunnah of His Messenger in accordance to the understanding of our Salaf (the pious predecessors)

The Prophet sallallahu alaihi Wassallam gave description of the strangers … he said: “They are righteous people among many evil people ... who disobey them more than those who obey them.” They are Saleheen .. in themselves righteous on the straight path following the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Messenger sallallahu Alaihi wassallam. The second attribute of the stranger is that they are Muslheen ... they command good and forbid evil, they adhere to the Sunnah and protect it from change, and command people to follow it as well. Yet people will not listen and obey to their teaching of the Sunnah!

The Prophet sallallahu Alaihi wassallam said "They are the ones who will make right what people have corrupted of my Sunnah." (At-Tirmithi) ...

To be honest and modest and to do the right things in accordance to Allah’s Command, indeed it has become strange nowadays!

When someone asks me “why do you grow your beard” I ask him back “why do you shave your beard”... I tell him “I follow Allah’s Prophets & Messengers; whom you follow!”

Indeed, nowadays it would be very strange for the Muslim women to uphold the Islamic decency act and adhere to the right dress code (not just putting on a head scarf while wearing beautiful garments and tight and bright clothes that would make her more attractive to men!!)

Sadly, in this era of Ghurbah you find people advocating the dilution of our Islamic identity to follow the non-Muslims in their way of living in everything! Let men shave their beards, let women dress up freely without wearing hijab or covering their beauties, let people buy houses using interest-bearing loans, etc ... weakness and love of this life had become part of today’s Muslim characters.

We should follow our deen and be proud of our obedience to Allah’s Command. Why fearing others! Why hiding ourselves by copying others’ identity and losing our own!

Let’s always remember the golden words of Omar ibnul Alkhattab radaia Allahu anh when he said to Abu Obaidah as they were approaching Jeruslem to meet its people and to take its keys .. he said “Allah Azza wajjal has honoured us by Al-Islam, and if we were to seek honor in anything other than Al-Islam, Allah will humiliate us”

All that I would say to my fellow Muslims, adhere to the book of Allah and to the Sunnah of His Messenger Sallallahu Alaihi wassallam, pride yourself on being one of the strangers who are on the right path that will lead you to salvation in this life and in the second life. And always remember the glad tiding of Rasulullah sallallahu Alaihi wassallam "Toobah (Good news) is for the strangers"(Muslim)

Our victory as Ummah will materialize when we achieve victory at individual level by upholding the teaching of our religion and live by Allah's Command without any fear of the masses around us! We should have victory over our own shaitan and our own lusts and our own fear ...

Allah has honored us by Al-Islam فأعزنا الله بالإسلام

روى الحاكم في المستدرك عن طارق بن شهاب قال :

خرج عمر بن الخطاب إلى الشام و معنا أبو عبيدة بن الجراح فأتوا على مخاضة و عمر على ناقة له فنزل عنها و خلع خفيه فوضعهما على عاتقه و أخذ بزمام ناقته فخاض بها المخاضة فقال أبو عبيدة : يا أمير المؤمنين أنت تفعل هذا تخلع خفيك و تضعهما على عاتقك و تأخذ بزمام ناقتك و تخوض بها المخاضة ما يسرني أن أهل البلد استشرفوك.

فقال عمر : أوه! لو يقل ذا غيرك أبا عبيدة جعلته نكالا لأمة محمد صلى الله عليه وسلم، أنا كنا أذل قوم فأعزنا الله بالإسلام فمهما نطلب العز بغير ما أعزنا الله به أذلنا الله

قال الذهبي في التلخيص هذا حديث صحيح على شرط الشيخين

This story is reported in almustadrak for Alhakem and the chain is accepted

“When Omar Ibn Alkhattab Radai Allahu anh as the Caliph came to Al-Sham (i.e. Palestine now) and he was accompanied by Abu Obaidah. They came across a pond so Omar took off his shoes and put them on his shoulders to hold the rope of the camel to cross the water. Upon seeing this, Abu Obaidah expressed his fear that the people of Jerusalem would see Omar in this status which might seem unbefitting. Omar Radai Allahu anh said these golden words that every Muslim should.. he said that Allah has honored us by Al-Islam, and if we were to seek honor in other than Al-Islam Allah will dishonor us!!

Allahu Akbar! Wallahi this feeling of honor and distinction of being Muslim is what many of today’s Muslims are missing especially those of us who are living or have grown up in the west. What is wrong with us! Why do we feel the need to blend in and become like the disbelievers so hardly one can distinguish us from them!!! Why do many constantly seek to please the non-believers hoping to be accepted by them!!

Tonight I was invited to attend a gathering held by the Muslim Business Association in BC. I felt sorry to see the free intermingling between men and women, the exaulting of non-believers! The function in its totality didn’t seem Islamic! So, why do they call attach the word “Muslim” to such association! This is distortion of the word Islam!

What I have witnessed tonight proves that we lack proper understanding of our deen and moreover shows the dire need for a humongous dosage of feeling the honor and pride as Muslims by learning and implementing the regulations of Al-Islam in every aspect in our lives even when doing business … I was struck to see most of those Muslim leaders are in the business of insurance, mortgage, currency exchange, etc.! What is going on here! I am just wondering have they studied the Islamic ruling about these choices of businesses! I am not here judging people but expressing my astonishments and sad feelings towards what I have observed!

Allahu Almusta’an!

May Allah Grant us guidance to remain steadfast

a beautiful story about Istighfaar ... but not authentic!

Subhana Allah, there is a beautiful story about Istighfaar I was always amused by it. Today I came to know that it is not authentic!

The story goes like this ...

During his old age, while Imam Ahmed was travelling he stopped by a town. After the prayers, he wanted to stay for the night in the masjid yard because he didn’t know anyone in the town. Owing to his humility, he hadn't introduced himself to anyone thinking that if he did, he would be welcomed by many people.

Failing to recognize Ahmed bin Hanbal, the caretaker of the mosque refused to let him stay in the mosque. As Imam Ahmed was quite old, the caretaker had to drag him out of the mosque. On seeing this, a baker from a nearby place felt pity for this man (Imam Ahmed) and offered to be the host to him for the night. During his stay with the baker, Imam Ahmed observed that the baker would constantly recite Istighfar (seek forgiveness from Allah). Imam Ahmed asked the baker if the constant practice of saying Istighfar had any effect on him. The baker responded by telling Imam Ahmed that Allah had accepted all of his duas (supplications), except one. When he asked him what dua was it that hadn’t been accepted, the baker replied that he had been asking Allah to provide him the privilege to meet the famous scholar Imam Ahmed bin Hanbal.

On this, Imam Ahmed bin Hanbal said that Allah had not only listened to his dua but had dragged him onto his (the baker’s) doorsteps. [Summarized from Al Jumuah magazine, vol 19, issue 7]

This story seems to be fabricated as commented by a number of scholars although it is circulated in the internet and repeatedly mentioned by preachers, I used to be one of them.

Since it is not authentic, I won’t use it any more. Alhamdullilah, we have abundanc of authentic narrations and stories that show the significance and superiority of Istighfaar.

Let’s accustom ourselves to speak and relate only truthfulness and authentic materials.

في تتبع رخص المجتهدين

قال ابن كثير -رحمه الله-

"ما من عالم إلا ويُردُّ عليه في مسائل اختارها إما عن رأي، أو عن ضعف حجة وهم معذورون قبل إيضاح المحجة بدلائلها ولو تتبع الناس شذوذات المجتهدين ورخصهم لخرجوا عن دين الإسلام إلى دين آخر."

تفسير ابن كثير

Who is "Salaf"?

The manhaj (methodology) of the Salaf is to adhere to the Qur'aan and the authentic Sunnah as understood by the Salaf as-Saalih.

The word Salaf is a shortened version of the word 'Salaf as-Saalih', which means the 'Righteous Predecessors'.

It refers specifically to the first three generations of Islaam in which the Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) described as being the best generations of Muslims. The first, the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) and his Sahaabah (companions). The second, the Taabi'een (the followers of the companions). The third, the Tabaa'at-Taabi'een (the followers of the followers of the companions).

Generally, this term refers to all those pious predecessors who followed the way of the Salaf and who have preceded us in time. This is the true manhaj of Ahl as-Sunnah wa al-Jamaa'ah.

May Allah Almighty Guide us to follow and adhere to the right way

sincerity

Ibnul Qayyim –(rahimahullaah) – said,

"Deeds without sincerity are like a traveler who carries in his water-jug dirt. The carrying of it burdens him and it brings no benefit."

The Fasting of the Tenth Day of Muarram (i.e. Tuesday Dec 6, 2011)

This year, the tenth day of Muharram will correspond to Dec 6th, 2011. It's highly recommended to fast it.

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to be very keen to make sure he fasted on the day of ‘Ashoora’ because of its great status. It was narrated that Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: I never saw the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) so keen to make sure he fasted any day and preferring it over another except this day, the day of ‘Ashoora’, and this month – meaning Ramadaan. Narrated by al-Bukhaari

Fasting the day of ‘Ashoora’ expiates for the past year, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Fasting the day of ‘Arafah I hope Allaah will expiate thereby for the year before it and the year after it, and fasting the day of ‘Ashoora’ I hope Allaah will expiate thereby for the year that came before it.” Narrated by Muslim, 1162. This is by the bounty that Allaah bestows upon us, whereby fasting one day expiates for the sins of a whole year. And Allaah is the Owner of great bounty.

Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: The expiation of purification, prayer, and fasting Ramadaan, ‘Arafah and ‘Ashoora’ applies to minor sins only.

Moreover, it is recommended to fast the ninth along with it (i.e. Monday Dec 5th) for the hadith:

‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: When the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) fasted on the day of ‘Ashoora and told the people to fast, they said, “O Messenger of Allaah, this is a day that is venerated by the Jews and Christians.” The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, “Next year, if Allaah wills, we will fast on the ninth day.” But by the time the following year came, the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) had passed away.) Narrated by Muslim

Befriend who will Benefit you in your religion

Today, I had breakfast with a new friend of mine visiting from Alberta. He is a medical doctor. Indeed, this person is one of those who will inspire you to do well and aim high. He excited me about medicine. In 30 minutes, he gave a succinct brief about medicine study in a simple and easy to grasp way.

People you meet in this life will certainly have some influence on you whether you know it or not; sometimes positive sometimes negative. You notice some people you meet will speak about things (cars, houses, new restaurants, etc) or maybe about other people (gossiping most of the time! rarely people will seak well about others when thy are absent :(

Being with such people will be a waste of time as they will not benefit you in any way.

The best of people you mix with are those who will spend time with you speaking about ideas and concepts ... not things nor people! He may tell you about a fascinating book recently he read or he may share with you his expertise and knowledge, and so on.

Ali Ibn Alhussein says "The man will mix with those who will benefit him in his religion يجالس الرجل من ينفعه في دينه " ... So, be smart and wisely invest your time mixing with those people who are so stingy to waste their time talking about things or gossiping others! Befriend those who will teach you new skills and share with you their learning and expertise hoping to be with them on the top!

May Allah Guide us to do well and speak well ...

لاَ تَقُمْ فِيهِ أَبَدًا Never Stand therein for prayer!!

Ponder this verse ...

وَالَّذِينَ اتَّخَذُواْ مَسْجِدًا ضِرَارًا وَكُفْرًا وَتَفْرِيقًا بَيْنَ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ وَإِرْصَادًا لِّمَنْ حَارَبَ اللَّهَ وَرَسُولَهُ مِن قَبْلُ وَلَيَحْلِفُنَّ إِنْ أَرَدْنَا إِلاَّ الْحُسْنَى وَاللَّهُ يَشْهَدُ إِنَّهُمْ لَكَاذِبُونَ

لاَ تَقُمْ فِيهِ أَبَدًا لَّمَسْجِدٌ أُسِّسَ عَلَى التَّقْوَى مِنْ أَوَّلِ يَوْمٍ أَحَقُّ أَن تَقُومَ فِيهِ فِيهِ رِجَالٌ يُحِبُّونَ أَن يَتَطَهَّرُواْ وَاللَّهُ يُحِبُّ الْمُطَّهِّرِينَ

Subhana Allah! These verses in Surat AtTawbah and its story for which the verses were revealed teach us a great lesson! Don't be fooled by any one raises the banner of Islam and claims to support its cause! The enemy of Allah such as the hypocrites will build mosques to hide behind them and to use them as a means for worldly benefits and to hinder the rise of the religion!

Don't be fooled by anyone who says "for the cause of Allah, come forward!" ... Allah says "Never ever stand in prayer at this mosque" ... It's a mosque! It's about praying! But the hypocrites will want you to sign in and participate ... This is in itself an endorsement!

In the verses, Allah told us about those hypocrites that they will swore by Allah that they intended good "(وَلَيَحْلِفُنَّ إِنْ أَرَدْنَا إِلاَّ الْحُسْنَى) But Allah knows that they are liars

One of the scholars in our time was approached by a local newspaper in Arabia begging him to write freely at the newspaper whatever he wants and no alteration whatsoever will be made! This scholar refused! This newspaper is advocating secularism and well-known for its spreading corruption. This scholar had the Baseerah! The insight! That by participating he will be endorsing them and supporting its circulation!

Quit supporting any tyrant or organization that proved itself as corrupted! Be smart and open your eyes and don't be fooled by the outwardly claims "Fii SabeellellAllah!!" ... Look at the realities and the facts to act boldly to stop the wrongdoing and to support the truth and the spreading of good !

Spending Policy!

Yesterday I met a wonderful person whose traits and qualifications are admirable yet humble and simple! These signs of greatness. May Allah Bless him

While chatting about life and spending (both of us have a big family), he asked me about my life and how I am doing since I don't have job. I told him that I adopt a verse in the Holy Qura'an as my spending policy. Allah Says in Surat AtTalaaq verse 7

لِيُنفِقْ ذُو سَعَةٍ مِّن سَعَتِهِ وَمَن قُدِرَ عَلَيْهِ رِزْقُهُ فَلْيُنفِقْ مِمَّا آتَاهُ اللَّهُ لا يُكَلِّفُ اللَّهُ نَفْسًا إِلاَّ مَا آتَاهَا سَيَجْعَلُ اللَّهُ بَعْدَ عُسْرٍ يُسْرًا

Let the rich man spend according to his means, and the man whose resources are restricted, let him spend according to what Allah has given him. Allah puts no burden on any person beyond what He has given him. Allah will grant after hardship, ease.

then he told me that this verse was his father policy. Then he related a story that one time his father had only 8 dinar. He spent them all on his family. He set out to buy meat! No fear! No worries about tomorrow! He had strong faith that Allah will bring its sustenance! Allahu Akbar! Having faith in Allah expecting the best from Him!

Life is so beautiful when the person lives it with good opinion of His Lord expecting the best from Him!

May Allah strengthen our faith to remain steadfast.

On Piety! Al-Imam Al-Shafeei رحمه الله

Yesterday I attended a function at UBC titled "Twins of Faith; Knowledge and Actions" organized by Al-Kawthar Institute

It was excellent and inspiring event!

One of the things I heard yesterday and I was amused by it a statement for Al-Imam Al-Shafeei Rahemahu Allah. He said

"We drank Zamzam for the knowledge so we learned. and if we were to drink for Taqwa it would've been better for us" ... شربنا ماء زمزم للعلم فتعلمنا ولو شربناه للتقوى لكان خيرا لنا ...

Rasullallah sallallahu Alaihi wassallam told us in an authentic narration that the water of Zamzam is blessed and it is for whatever you intended. meaning when you drink it, whatever you intend and supplicate with while drinking it, you will have it answered.

Subhana Allah, this statement of Al-Imam Al-Shafeei (May Allah have Mercy on him) shows the significance of having piety. What is the beneft of having knowledge if this knowledge won't make us more God-fearing and closer to Allah Almighty.

O Allah! Forgive us our sins and make us among almuttaqeen ya Rabba Alaalameen

Today's Khutbah: Alhijrah AnNabawiyyah

Delivered at BCMA Richmond Masjid, Canada Dhul Hijjah 29, 1432 corresponding to November 25, 2011

Alhijrah AnNabawiyyah

By: Ayman El-Najjar ayman.elnajjar@gmail.com

إن الحمد لله نحمده ونستعينه ونستغفره، ونعوذ بالله من شرور أنفسنا ومن سيئات أعمالنا، من يهده الله فلا مضل له، ومن يضلل فلا هادي له، وأشهد أن لا إله إلا الله وحده لا شريك له وأشهد أن محمداً عبده ورسوله.{يَاأَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللَّهَ حَقَّ تُقَاتِهِ وَلا تَمُوتُنَّ إِلا وَأَنْتُمْ مُسْلِمُونَ} {يَاأَيُّهَا النَّاسُ اتَّقُوا رَبَّكُمُ الَّذِي خَلَقَكُمْ مِنْ نَفْسٍ وَاحِدَةٍ وَخَلَقَ مِنْهَا زَوْجَهَا وَبَثَّ مِنْهُمَا رِجَالا كَثِيرًا وَنِسَاءً وَاتَّقُوا اللَّهَ الَّذِي تَسَاءَلُونَ بِهِ وَالأَرْحَامَ إِنَّ اللَّهَ كَانَ عَلَيْكُمْ رَقِيبًا} {يَاأَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللَّهَ وَقُولُوا قَوْلا سَدِيدًا يُصْلِحْ لَكُمْ أَعْمَالَكُمْ وَيَغْفِرْ لَكُمْ ذُنُوبَكُمْ وَمَنْ يُطِعِ اللَّهَ وَرَسُولَهُ فَقَدْ فَازَ فَوْزًا عَظِيمًا} أما بعد، فإن أصدق الحديث كتاب الله، وخير الهدي هدي محمد - صلى الله عليه وسلم -، وشر الأمور محدثاتها، وكل محدثةٍ بدعةٍ، وكل بدعةٍ ضلالةٍ، وكل ضلالةٍ في النار، أما بعد.

All praise is due to Allah, whose help and forgiveness we seek. We seek refuge in Allah from whatever evil our hearts conceal and from the consequences of our evil deeds. Whoever Allah grants guidance will never be led astray. Whoever He allows to go astray will never find guidance. I bear witness that none is worthy of worship except Allah, who has no partners, and that Mohammad is His slave and Messenger.

On the 16^th or the 17^th year after hijrah, Omar Ibn Alkhattab and his advisors from the companions held a meeting to decide on Islamic calendar. And in that meeting they chose the prophetic migration year from Makkah to Madinah to be the starting year of our Islamic calendar. This event marked the beginning of a new era of establishing an independent Islamic state. This event distinguished between the truth and the falsehood.

So, let’s review the migration event in a quick play to highlight some of the lessons we need to have engraved in our hearts and minds

Rasullallah sallallahu Alaihi Wassallam stayed in Makkah ten years making dawah and calling people to Allah azza wajjal. After ten years from receiving the mission from his Lord, his wife Khadeejah and his uncle Abu Taleb both died at the same year. The Makkans became more aggressive towards the prophet sallallahu alaihi wassallam. Therefore, he set out towards At-Taif, about 60 kilometers from Makkah. Contrary to his expectation, the people of Taif were terribly hostile. As the time of pilgrimage was approaching, he, sallallahu alaihi wassallam, hastened to return to Makkah to introduce people to Islam and call them to embrace it. The responses were nothing but rejection. The prophet sallallahu Alaihi wassallam continued his mission with determination. A great lesson to learn! Be determined! Be disciplined when pursuing a noble cause! Especially when the cause is about spreading Islam!

On the following year (i.e. the 11^th year of prophet-hood) and during the pilgrimage season, the prophet met 6 people from Yathrib (i.e. Almadinah) who embraced Islam and went back to their people to invite them to this religion. The following year (i.e. the 12^th year of prophet-hood) and during the pilgrimage occasion, twelve people from Madinah came to make a pledge that was known as the first Aqabah pledge. This pledge was spiritual pledge; to worship only Allah azza wajjal and not to steal nor commit adultery, nor kill their children, and won’t utter slander, and won’t disobey Rasullallah in any just matter. Spirituality in our religion is in its core! Think of this; the spiritual pledge was established ahead of the political one.

After this pledge, Rasullullah sallallahu aliahi wassallam sent to Yathrib Musa’ab Ibn Omair radia Allahu anh to teach people the doctrine of Islam and its practices and to propagate Islam among the non-believers of Yathrib. Again, this shows the importance of tarbiyah; learning the deen and teaching it to other. This should be the top priority of any Islamic organization; serving the religion of Allah by spreading it, teaching it to become peoples’ way of living! This is the essence of Tariyah!

The next year, the 13^th of prophet-hood, and during the pilgrimage season, over seventy converts from Madinah came for the second Aqabah Pledge. This pledge was a political meeting to establish the alliance … as the prophet sallallahu Alaihi Wassallam said “your blood will be my blood. In life and death, I will be with you and you will be with me. I will fight whom you fight and I will make peace with whom you make peace.” The prophet sallallahu Alaihi Wassallam asked the group to appoint 12 deputies to shoulder the responsibility of implementing the articles of this pledge. Shaitan cried out loudly on that night to wake up the Makkans to stop this alliance! When one of the delegation of Madinah asked the permission of the prophet to declare war on the disbelievers in Mina, the prophet sallallahu alaihi wassllam told him “we have not been commanded to follow that course” … This is the essence of our deen; obedience to Allah Subhanahu Wata’ala! Brethren, our deen is not about fighting and not about shedding blood! This is contrary to the propaganda of the enemies of Al-Islam. In the 600 hundred pages of the Holy Qura’an, not a one time you would find the word “sword” or any of its many other Arabic names. Whereas, the just the word ‘sword’ has come more than 200 times in the bible!

After the endorsement of this great pledge, the prophet sallallahu Alaihi wassallm gave his leave for the Muslims to migrate to Madinah. The Makkans came to know about this new development. Therefore, they spared no efforts in hindering people from migrating! The first one to migrate was Abu Salamah radia Allahu anh. His in-laws detained his wife and snatched his son in a desperate attempt to deter him! But he kept on going! Most of people migrated secretly to avoid the hassle of the Makkans but not Umar ibn Alkhattab. When he decided to migrate, he announced it to the Makkans so whoever wants his mother to cry on him let him follow me!! No one followed him!

Almost all the followers of Rasulullah sallallahu alaihi wassallam had migrated except Abu Bakr, Ali, the prophet himself, and those helpless who had been detained or were unable to escape. Abu Bakr was urging the prophet to migrate but the prophet told him time had not yet come; the Lord had not given me the command to migrate. Abu Bakr had made preparations for the journey; bought two strong camels, and had fed them properly for four months ahead to be ready for the long journey.

The Makkans got deeply worried about the situation. Therefore, they held an urgent meeting at Dar AnNadwah (the parliament of Quraish) to decide on effective measures against Mohammed. The heads of Quraishite tribes attended the meeting. Even Iblis (Satan) disguised in an elderly man attended this meeting. They had a lengthy discussion over several proposals; exile him, or detain him, but none were accepted till Abu Jahl suggested that a group of young and strong men, one from each tribe, should strike Mohammed at the same time with their swords so the tribe of Mohammed would not be able to fight all those tribes and therefore will accept the blood-money settlement. Iblis disguised as an old man praised this suggestion that was accepted collectively.

Gabriel Alahi Assalam came to the prophet sallallahu alaihi wassallam to tell him about Quraish’s conspiracy and to grant him Allah’s permission to migrate and asked him not to sleep that night in his bed. At the noon, the prophet sallallahu alaihi wassallam went to see his companion Abu Bakr to tell him about the permission to migrate. That night, the prophet told Ali (his cousin) to sleep in his bed and cover himself and assured him full security under Allah’s protection! Then Rasullalah sallallahu alaihi wassallam came out of the house while he was reciting the beginning verses of Surat Yasin and he cast a handful of dust at the assassins’ heads. He proceeded to the house of Abu Bakr who immediately accompanied him and both set out. When the Quraishs realized that the prophet had escaped them despite their plot, they got agitated and announced a grand prize of a hundred camels for the one who bring Mohammed, dead or alive! WOW! A hundred camel; this prize is mind-spinning fortunate! A Jackpot! Brethren, let’s always remember this verse where aAllah Azza wajjal says “Verily, those who disbelieve spend their wealth to hinder others from the Path of Allah, and so will they continue to spend it; but in the end it will become an anguish for them. Then they will be overcome. And those who disbelieve will be gathered unto Hell”. We, the people of truth, shall continue striving on the path of Allah with determination because the struggle between truth and falsehood will continue!

One of the great lessons of the migration story is to plan well! Take the necessary measures to success! Planning Planning Planning! Amazing you see how an Islamic organization would embark on a multi-million project and asking for people’s money and support with having any plans! It’s not becoming to embark on a project without having a good plan for it ahead. Wallahi! This is a calamity!

The prophet sallallahu alaihi wassallam and his companion Abu Bakr had set a brilliant plan for the journey covering all of its aspects in a very detailed way! Imagine the map or Arabia, Madinah is located to the north of Makkah. However, the prophet and his companion Abu Bakr headed south till they reach to a rough rocky mountain called Thawr! And they camped in its cave for three days! They knew that Quraish would mobilize all its power to find him. Therefore, the plan was to take the least expected route and stay there for 3 days hoping that the Makkans will give up. Abdullah the son of Abi Bakr would go to see them after dusk to tell them the latest news in Makkah, stay with them the night then leave in the early morning to mix with Makkans as if he slept in Makkah. Amir Ibn Fuhayrah, the servant of Abu Bakr, would tend the goats of Abu Bakr close to the cave so they can benefit by its milk and meat and to cover up the traces of Abdullah ibn abi Bakr.

Despite all these measures, horsemen reached to the mouth of the cave where the prophet and his companion were hiding! When the tracers came very close, Abu Bakr whispered to the prophet sallallahu alaihi wassallam his fear that if they were to look into the cave they would find us. The prophet sallallahu alaihi wassallam replied to him with a heart expecting the best from Allah, a heart having faith and confidence of Allah’s Protection and Support … saying “O Abu Bakr! What do you think of two with whom the third is Allah” “Do not be distressed! Indeed, Allah is with us” … Allah is with us by His Protection and His Mercy, and His Knowledge! A great lesson to every believer; when you are with Allah, fear no one; Allah is your Protector! “Allah defends the believers!” during time of distress and difficulties, turn to Allah invoking His Mercy and Support! And Expect the best from your Lord and Always remember what Allah said “I am as my Slave expects of me”

Abu Bakr made an agreement with a professional guide named Abdullah Ibn Uraiqeet who had not embraced Islam but he was trusted. So, Abu Bakr hired him as a guide. As per their plan, they decided to take on a route other than the normal one that was known to every person. Therefore, the need for a good guide was necessary! This shows us the legitimacy of hiring the service of a non-believer provided he is trustworthy and competent. Also, it shows us the significance of planning in light with the environmental factors influencing the situation!

So, as pre-agreed, Abdullah Ibn Urayqeet came with the camels after three days to the cave of Thawr to set out to Madinah. Abu Bakr offered his second camel to the prophet sallallahu alaihi wassallam who accepted it but with a condition to pay its price. They took with them food provisions Asma bintu Abi Bakr had prepared for them. So, the group (the prophet, Abu Bakr, Amir Ibn Fuhairah, and the guide) started the journey. The little caravan travelled by the coast thru many villages. Many incidences happened in the way! Abu Bakr was a well-know person in Arabia because he used to travel a lot for trading however the prophet sallallahu alaihi wassallam was not. So, whoever asked Abu Bakr radia Allahu anh about the identity of his companion, he would reply “he is guiding me on the way إنه يهديني السبيل” the questioner would think that he is a road guide whereas Abu Bakr radia Allahu anh used it to mean guide to the way of righteousness. Some people may excuse themselves to tell mere lies and oppress others to serve their personal political agenda believing it is permissible. While in reality, Shaitan has deceived them! Brethren, let’s remember that telling lie is not from the characteristics of the believers! Let’s us be extra cautious to guard our tongues!

The love of Abu Bakr radia Allahu anh for Rasullullah sallallahu alaihi wassallam was beyond descrition. Therefore, Abu Bakr was greatly anxious about the safety of the prophet sallallahu alaihi wassallam during the trip. When they came to the cave of Thawr, abu Bakr went inside it first to check it and to clean it. While they were traveling, Abu Bakr sometimes came ahead and sometimes behind to ensure safety from all direction. Brethren, our love to Rasullullah sallallahu alaihi wassallam shall exceed the love of ourselves, our families and our children. Our Iman won’t be complete till we attain this love. Wallahi I was shocked when I saw a TV show by an Islamic figure respected by many as a great caller to Islam asking peoples’ opinions about reaction of the Muslims to the Danish demeaning drawings; wasn’t it exaggerated! Amazing is it an issue for opinion! What a calamity when ignorant people are looked at and listened to as being a source of Islamic knowledge! So, beware of them!

As we have mentioned, Quraish had declared a grand reward for the capture of Mohammed. Among those who were on the lookout for the prophet sallallahu alaihi wassallam enthused by the prize was Suraqah Ibnu Malik. He got some lead that a group of four has been spotted on a certain route. So he decided to chase them secretly. Driven by his greed, he turn away all other tracers so he may win the prize alone! He mounted a swift horse to pursue the prophet sallallahu alaihi wassallam. As he approached them, abu Bakr was worried that he would catch up with them. The prophet sallallahu alaihi wassallam replied “Don’t be sad, Indeed Allah is with us.” The horse stumbled and Suraqah fell on the ground. Blinded by the lust of earning the grand prize, Suraqah persisted despite the frequent stumbling of his horse. Rsullullah sallallahu alaihi wassallam remained steadfast reciting verses of the Qura’an. Suraqah realized that he was mistaken and thus he begged forgiveness of Rasullullah sallallahu alaihi wassallam. Even he offered them provisions but they declined his offer. They only asked him screen off their departure and blind the chasers. Rasullallah told Suraqah that a day will come when Suraqah will put on the bracelets of Kisra! Allahu Akbar! Another episode that teaches us to remain steadfast and reciting Allah’s words especially in times of difficulties! As well, having good opinion of Allah and believing in His Promises.

On Monday 8^th Rabi’a Al-Awwal from the 14^th year of prophethood, Rasullullah sallallahu alaihi wassallam arrived at Quba. As the news began to spread, people of Madinah would come every morning and wait eagerly for the appearance of Rasullallah sallallahu alaihi wassallam. One day and after long wait and they were about leaving, a jew shouted “O you people of Arabia! Your grandfather has come! The Muslims immediately rushed in joy to welcome him sallallahu alaihi wassallam.

Brother and sisters in Islam, the story of migration has great lessons to learn. The greatest of which is that to know that our religion – Al-Islam – is the most precious thing of our life. For it, we shall sacrifice our beloved possessions. We shall embrace it and tightly hold unto it. We shall do anything to keep it intact. This is our objective; protecting our deen! Another point to highlight is that we will be tested. Shaitan and his soldiers from the Jin and people will do everything against us to turn us away from being good Muslims on the straight path.

Brethren, let’s remember the Prophetic narration as reported in Sahih al-Bukhari whereby Rasullullah sallallahu alaihi wassallam said The migrant is the one who migrate from sins and whatever Allah has forbade! We need to constantly live by the migration spirit! We need to leave our today status to a better tomorrow .. we need to always strive to strengthen our Iman and cleanse ourselves from the sins … migration is a about remaining steadfast and striving for betterment. Strive to keep our deen and remain steadfast! In the way, we shall always be with Allah so Allah will be with us! Then the struggle will be a joy and will be an honor not a pain!

I beg of Allah azza wajjal to protect our religion and grant us steadfastness till we meet him.

Today's Friday Sermon Nov 25, 2011 - The Prophetic Migration

All praise is due to Allah Azza Wajjal

Today, I will deliver Friday sermon and lead its prayer at BCMA Richmond Masjid. The topic of the sermon will be about the Prophetic migration from Makkah to Madinah.

As usual, the sermon script will be posted on this blog today in the evening Insha'Allah. Also, I have most of my Friday's sermon recorded audio file. If interested, please let me know so I may share it with you upon your request.

May Allah Azza Wajjal grant us guidance to remain steadfast till we meet him

Prophetic Narration for Contemplation

عَنْ حُذَيْفَةَ رضي الله عنه قال ، قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ : " يَكُونُ عَلَيْكُمْ أُمَرَاءٌ يَكْذِبُونَ وَيَظْلِمُونَ ، فَمَنْ صَدَّقَهُمْ عَلَى كَذِبِهِمْ وَأَعَانَهُمْ عَلَى ظُلْمِهِمٍ ، فَلَيْسَ مِنِّي وَلَسْتُ مِنْهُ ، وَلَنْ يَرِدَ عَلَى الْحَوْضِ

Hudhaifa radai Allahu Anhu narrated that Rasullullah Sallallahu Alaihi Wassallam said (There will be leaders appointed on you who lie and oppress. Whoever believes their lies and support their wrongdoings will not be from me and I will not be from him and he will not be with me at alhawod)

Watch this !

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PS_TbmJ4H1g&feature=related

It is worth watching ... a preacher defending Islam in a calm and rational tone

Pictures of my newly born baby "Ahmed"

Ahmed and Omar together ... Ahmed is one-day old and Omar is 4 year old. May Allah Bless them both

Ahmed is in the car seat ready to leave the hospital ... He is one-day old

Allah has Granted us a new baby boy "Ahmed"

Alhamdullilah, Allah Has Granted us a new baby boy. We intend to name him "Ahmed" Insha'Allah

Ahmed and his mom are both well Alhamdullillah

My wife gave birth at Surrey Memorial Hospital on Nov 22, 2011 at 6:39 pm.

The family and I are so excited and happy by the new member of the family. Words won't suffice to express our joy and happiness of Ahmed.

We beg of Allah Almighty to grant him and all of us health, success, and happiness in this life and the life after. Please join us in our supplication and happiness

“Expect the best from Allah”

Delivered at BCMA Richmond Masjid, Canada Dhul Hijjah 22, 1432 corresponding to November 18, 2011

“Expect the best from Allah”

By: Ayman El-Najjar ayman.elnajjar@gmail.com

إن الحمد لله نحمده ونستعينه ونستغفره، ونعوذ بالله من شرور أنفسنا ومن سيئات أعمالنا، من يهده الله فلا مضل له، ومن يضلل فلا هادي له، وأشهد أن لا إله إلا الله وحده لا شريك له وأشهد أن محمداً عبده ورسوله.{يَاأَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللَّهَ حَقَّ تُقَاتِهِ وَلا تَمُوتُنَّ إِلا وَأَنْتُمْ مُسْلِمُونَ} {يَاأَيُّهَا النَّاسُ اتَّقُوا رَبَّكُمُ الَّذِي خَلَقَكُمْ مِنْ نَفْسٍ وَاحِدَةٍ وَخَلَقَ مِنْهَا زَوْجَهَا وَبَثَّ مِنْهُمَا رِجَالا كَثِيرًا وَنِسَاءً وَاتَّقُوا اللَّهَ الَّذِي تَسَاءَلُونَ بِهِ وَالأَرْحَامَ إِنَّ اللَّهَ كَانَ عَلَيْكُمْ رَقِيبًا} {يَاأَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللَّهَ وَقُولُوا قَوْلا سَدِيدًا يُصْلِحْ لَكُمْ أَعْمَالَكُمْ وَيَغْفِرْ لَكُمْ ذُنُوبَكُمْ وَمَنْ يُطِعِ اللَّهَ وَرَسُولَهُ فَقَدْ فَازَ فَوْزًا عَظِيمًا} أما بعد، فإن أصدق الحديث كتاب الله، وخير الهدي هدي محمد - صلى الله عليه وسلم -، وشر الأمور محدثاتها، وكل محدثةٍ بدعةٍ، وكل بدعةٍ ضلالةٍ، وكل ضلالةٍ في النار، أما بعد.

All praise is due to Allah, whose help and forgiveness we seek. We seek refuge in Allah from whatever evil our hearts conceal and from the consequences of our evil deeds. Whoever Allah grants guidance will never be led astray. Whoever He allows to go astray will never find guidance. I bear witness that none is worthy of worship except Allah, who has no partners, and that Mohammad is His slave and Messenger.

In the story of Mosa Alahi Assalam with Pharaoh, Mosa left Egypt with his people till they reached the sea. Pharaoh and his army followed them. Mosa and his people got surrounded by the sea and Pharaoh and his army!

(فَلَمَّا تَرَاءى الْجَمْعَانِ قَالَ أَصْحَابُ مُوسَى إِنَّا لَمُدْرَكُونَ * قَالَ كَلاَّ إِنَّ مَعِيَ رَبِّي سَيَهْدِينِ * فَأَوْحَيْنَا إِلَى مُوسَى أَنِ اضْرِب بِّعَصَاكَ الْبَحْرَ فَانفَلَقَ فَكَانَ كُلُّ فِرْقٍ كَالطَّوْدِ الْعَظِيمِ * وَأَزْلَفْنَا ثَمَّ الآخَرِينَ * وَأَنجَيْنَا مُوسَى وَمَن مَّعَهُ أَجْمَعِينَ * ثُمَّ أَغْرَقْنَا الآخَرِينَ * إِنَّ فِي ذَلِكَ لآيَةً وَمَا كَانَ أَكْثَرُهُم مُّؤْمِنِينَ) الشعراء 61-67

“And when the two hosts saw each other, the companions of Musa (Moses) said: "We are sure to be overtaken * [Musa (Moses)] said: "Nay, verily! With me is my Lord, He will guide me." * Then We inspired Musa (Moses) (saying): "Strike the sea with your stick." And it parted, and each separate part (of that sea water) became like the huge, firm mass of a mountain. * Then We brought near the others [Fir'aun's (Pharaoh) party] to that place. * And We saved Musa (Moses) and all those with him * Then We drowned the others * Verily! In this is indeed a sign (or a proof), yet most of them are not believers.”

The people of Mosa saw only defeat and hardship. Looking at the same situation, with connected heart with Allah and absolute trust in Him Subhanahu Wata’al expecting the best from Him, Mosa saw guidance and victory. “My Lord is with me; He will show me guidance.”

Brethren, today I have one message of reminder to me and the rest of you hoping that we shall hold tight unto it and have it with us everywhere at all times; EXPECT THE BEST FROM ALLAH. Expect the best from your Lord; and rest assured He will be at your expectation. In a sacred hadith, narrated by Al-Bukhari and Muslim, Allah’s Messenger Sallallahu Alaihi Wassallam said Allah said “I am as My Slave thinks and expects of Me”

Brother and Sister in Islam, we need to expect the best of Allah when a calamity strikes us! When we face failure; when we live in hardship such as sickness or poverty, what kind of thoughts occupies your minds? What are your expectations of tomorrow?

We have the inclination to think of all the negative things that might happen in life! Why not to think of all the positive things that we wish and desire to happen! Expect the best of your Lord! He is more Merciful to us than our fathers and mothers. He is the Most Generous! He is The Sustainer. When we think positive expecting the best from Allah Azza wajjal, we will behave and act with energy searching for the good that Allah will bring our way! When we expect the best from Allah and think positive, we will work harder.

Think of Ibrahim Alaihi Assalam when his people threw him into the fire. His words were “"Allah (Alone) is Sufficient for me, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs.” Then, Allah commanded the fire to be cold and safe on Ibrahim.

Think of the story of Hajar the mother of Ismaeel; when Ibrahim Alaihi Assalam left her at a valley that has no vegetation, no water, no people, nothing! She asked Ibrahim “Is it Allah Who Commanded you to do this?” He said “Yes.” With a heart filled with faith and high expectation, she said “then He will not neglect/abandon us!” She was 100% expecting Allah to take care of her and her baby child. Because she expected the best from her Lord, she kept searching for water, running between the two mountains of alsafa and Almarwaah.

Think of Rasullullah Sallallahu Alaihi Wassallam when he was chased by the makkans who were determined to kill him and they were so close to catch him and his companion Abu Bakr radia Allahu anh but Rasullallah Sallallahu Alaihi Wassallam was confident of Allah’s Support. He told Abu Baker what do you think of two Allah is their third! Allah is with us!

Suhaib Alroomi (radia Allahu Anh) was a trader with wealth. When he embraced Islam and decided to migrate to Madinah for Allah’s Sake, the Makkans followed him and demanded him to leave all of his wealth in order to allow him to go! Without an iota of hesitation, Sohaib gave them all that he saved and made of wealth for Allah! When he arrived to Madinah, Allah’s Messenger Sallallahu Alaihi Wassallam was I his reception telling him that you have made the best of transaction “ Rabiha Albai Ya Aba Yayhya”

When Ubu Salamah (radiya Allahu Anh) died, his wife Ummu Salamah (radaya Allahu Anha) repeatedly stated “Inna Lellah wa Inna Ilayhi Rajeoon, Allahma A’jorni fii mussibati Wa Akhlef lii khairan menha” “To Allah we belong, and to Allah we turn; O Allah! Reward me for my calamity and Give me better than that I lost” Ummu Salamah had faith in these words! She expected the ebst from Allah. But she was wondering who might be better than Abu Salamah from among other companion who might come forward to marry her! Guess what? Who was the one? Rasullullah Sallallahi Alaihi Wassallam proposed to Ummi Salamah to marry her! Allahu Akbar! Expect the best from Allah; Allah will be as you expect of Him!

Hope and positive expectations will energize the person to exert efforts and become more resourceful and thoughtful to come out of the calamity and find solution to it with a heart that is truly reliant on Allahu azza wajjal.

Think POSITIVE; Expect the best from Allah Azza Wajjal and get out there to work and to get involved in actions expecting the best to come your way. Nothing good will come your way if you remain idle doing nothing!

Fellow Muslims, we need to EXPECT THE BEST FROM ALLAH when we supplicate to Allah asking our needs; have confidence and faith that Allah is Kind and He will grant us the best for us! Our life will be different. Rasullullah Sallallahu Alaihi Wassallam said “Supplicate to Allah while you have confidence and faith that Allah will answer your supplication.” When calling on Allah and raising your hand asking your needs, remember that Allah is near to us knowing our needs and hearing our supplications …

(وَإِذَا سَأَلَكَ عِبَادِي عَنِّي فَإِنِّي قَرِيبٌ أُجِيبُ دَعْوَةَ الدَّاعِ إِذَا دَعَانِ فَلْيَسْتَجِيبُواْ لِي وَلْيُؤْمِنُواْ بِي لَعَلَّهُمْ يَرْشُدُونَ) البقرة 186

“And when My slaves ask you (O Muhammad) concerning Me, then (answer them), I am indeed near (to them by My Knowledge). I respond to the invocations of the supplicant when he calls on Me (without any mediator or intercessor). So let them obey Me and believe in Me, so that they may be led aright.” (2:186)

We need to call on Him repeatedly with humbleness and hope as Allah Says:

(ادْعُواْ رَبَّكُمْ تَضَرُّعًا وَخُفْيَةً إِنَّهُ لاَ يُحِبُّ الْمُعْتَدِينَ) الأعراف 55

“Invoke your Lord with humility and in secret. He likes not the aggressors” (7:55)

Supplicating to Allah Azza Wajjal is a great weapon to face life’s hardship and toil. But to benefit by it, we need to use it with faith and confidence that Allah will answer our prayers and grant us what is best for us. Supplicate to Allah expecting the best from Him.

Brethren, we need to expect the best of Allah and think of His Kindness and Mercy when we are on the death bed about to leave this dunia! Shaitan will avail our weakness at these moments to hold negative thoughts about Allah … Allah won’t forgive me! I am bad! Allah is angry at me! I am going to hell!

Rasullullah Sallallahu Alaihi Wassllam said لا يموتن أحدكم إلا وهو يحسن الظن بالله

In Sahih Muslim, Jaabir narrates that he heard Rasullullah Sallallahu Alaihi Wassllam said three days before his death as saying: “Let none of you die without having a good opinion of Allah.”

The ill-opinion of Allah especially while the person is facing death will cause him to hate the meeting with Allah, then Allah will hate the meeting with this person. In Sahih Al-Bukhari and Muslim, the prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wassllam said “Whoever loves to meet Allah, Allah will love to meet him. And whoever hates to meet Allah, Allah will hate to meet him.”

Brothers and Sisters in Islam, having good opinion of Allah and expecting the best from Him is strongly related to the actions and deeds of ours and they both act upon each other. When our actions are not good and not in obedience to Allah’s Command, people tend to hold ill-opinion about Allah and indulge in more of the bad actions! Having good opinion of Allah and expect the best from him should energize us to increase our actions and enhance our performance to become more entitled for Allah’s Favors and Support. Sins and bad deeds will darken the heart and weaken our bodies.

Let’s open our hearts to embrace this reminder to make our life more pleasurable! Allah azza Wajjal created human beings in toil and hardshipلقد خلقنا الانسان في كبد ! Living this life with positive thinking expecting the best from Allah will ease our journey!

Let’s think well of Allah and expect the best from Him when we set out to attain a challenging aim. Let’s think well of Allah when we slip and commit sins to come back in repentance hoping His forgiveness and acceptance. Let’s think well of Allah and expect the best from Him when we go for a job interview or decide to get married or start a new business. Let’s think well of Allah and expect the best from Him when we are struck by calamity trying to come out of it hoping Allah’s Help and Support. Live every moment in your life with a heart attached to Allah; thinking well of Him, expecting the best from Him Azza Wajjal; and rest assured Allah will meet your expectation and answer your supplication.

2^nd Khutbah

Brothers and sisters in Islam, two important reminders you and I need nowadays need to observe during these short and cold days;

The 1^st reminder is related to observing the five daily prayers on time. You might be a student at school or a engineer at site or a salesperson busy with your clients! Whatever the role you do in life, we need to remember that observing the five daily prayer timely is our utmost priority duty! Be watchful to offer the prayers at their prescribed time especially those prayers that their times come while you’re busy at work or at school. Wallahi, it is a calamity to delay the prayer till its time is gone without praying! It is not okay to wait till you return home to pray Dhur after its due time. Similarly with salatu Al-Asr! Delaying it till after the sunset for no valid reason except being busy at work or at school, wallahi it is a calamity! This calamity is worse than the loss of one’s family and kids! This delay would cause severe damage to our check balance of righteous deeds. So, I admonish myself and the rest of you to be extra cautious to offer the prayers at their prescribed times. Pray anywhere but never allow yourself to delay it till after its deadline time! Fear Allah more than the fear of people! And let’s remember that these prayers of ours are one the most important worships in our religion!

The 2^nd reminder is related to wearing socks and wiping over them. In a snapshot, wiping over the socks or whatever covers your feet is legitimate and well-established in our shari’ah with unison among the scholars. And this is from the mercy and ease in our religion.

For the wiping to be valid and accepted, four conditions have to be met:

The first condition is to have the socks put on when you are in a state of tahaarah (purity, i.e., when one has wudoo’). The evidence for that is what the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said to al-Mugheerah ibn Shu’bah: “Don’t worry, because I put them one when I was clean.”

The second condition is that the khufoof (leather slippers which cover the ankle) or socks should be taahir (pure). If they are naajis (impure) then it is not permissible to wipe over them. The daleel for that is that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) led his companions in prayer one day wearing shoes, which he took off whilst he was praying. He said that Jibreel had told him that there was something dirty on them. This was narrated by Ahmad from the hadeeth of Abu Sa’eed al-Khudri (may Allaah be pleased with him) in his Musnad. This indicates that it is not permissible to pray wearing anything that is naajis, because if the naajis thing is wiped over, the person will be contaminated by that najaasah (impurity), so he cannot be considered to be taahir (pure).

The third condition is that they may be wiped over when one is purifying oneself from minor impurity (i.e. doing wudoo’ after passing wind, urine or stools), not when one is in a state of janaabah (major impurity following sexual activity) or when ghusl is required. The evidence for that is the hadeeth of Safwaan ibn ‘Assaal (may Allaah be pleased with him) who said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) commanded us, when we were travelling, not to remove our khufoof for three days and three nights, except in the case of janaabah. But we could keep them on and wipe over them in the case of stools, urine and sleeping.” (Ahmed)

The fourth condition is that the wiping may be done within the time specified by sharee’ah, which is one day and one night in the case of one who is not travelling, and three days and three nights in the case of one who is travelling. This is because of the hadeeth of ‘Ali ibn Abi Taalib (may Allaah be pleased with him) who said: “The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) stated one day and one night for the one who is not travelling, and three days and three nights for the one who is travelling, i.e., for wiping over the khufoof.” This was narrated by Muslim. This period starts from the first time one wipes over the socks when doing wudoo’ after some minor impurity, and it ends twenty-four later for the one who is not travelling, and seventy-two hours later for the one who is travelling. Once the time is over, you should take off the socks and the khoof to make wodoo and to clean your feet by water.