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AN NASIHAHAN NASIHAHAN NASIHAHAN NASIHAH

Sha’ban 1434 (June 2013)

A Quarterly Journal Portraying

The Pristine Purity of Islam

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The Advice �������

Page 2

CONTENTSCONTENTSCONTENTSCONTENTS

Commentary on the Qur’ân……………………………………… 3

A Healthy Heart …………………………………………………… 5

My Heart Bleeds ……………………………………………………… 9

Hadrat Maulânâ Shâh Wasîyyullâh Sâhib ˛ on the

Importance of Following the Sunnah……………………… 13

Beautiful Names of Allâh � (Al-Wahhâb)………………… 19

Clearing the Fog (Part 11)………………………………… 23

Taking the Step (Part 5) ………………………………………… 27

[

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COMMENTARY ON THE QUR’ÂN

Chapter 2 Verse 177

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Virtue is not that you turn your faces towards the east or west, but virtue is a person who believes in Allâh, the last day, the angels, the divine scriptures, and the Ambiyâ �; who gives wealth in spite of its love to his relatives, the orphans, the destitute, travellers, beggars, and to emancipate slaves. He establishes Salâh, gives Zakâh, they

fulfil their promises when making them, are patient through hardship, adversity and times of war. These are the ones who have

chosen the path of truth and they are the righteous ones.”

When the Jews and Christians heard the previous verses wherein they were condemned, they said: “Many signs and vestiges of guidance and forgiveness are found in us. One of the most apparent things is that we act in accordance with the command of Allâh � in facing towards the Qiblah which we have been ordered to face when offering Salâh, which is the most superior of all acts of worship. So how can we be entitled to such condemnation and punishments?” In refuting this assumption, Allâh � says that great virtue which is sufficient for forgiveness and guidance, is not that you merely turn towards the east or the west in prayer while you do not even worry about your fundamental beliefs and obligatory actions.

The Advice �������

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The Answer to Piety and Virtue: Piety and virtue, which is the natural effect of guidance and the cause of forgiveness, is that you believe with your heart in Allâh �, the day of judgement, all the angels, heavenly books, and Ambiyâ �. And that you also have conviction in this. Furthermore, despite you having attachment and love for your wealth you should spend it in not only giving Zakâh, but also in the following avenues: relatives, orphans, the poor, travellers, beggars who are in need, for the freeing of Muslims who are unjustly held in captivity by the unbelievers, for the freeing of those in debt from their creditors, for the freeing of slaves, and for the freeing of slaves who have been permitted to purchase their freedom. Offer your Salâh with complete righteousness. Pay the Zakâh for your gold, silver and stock in trade. Fulfil your promises. Exercise patience and live with fortitude when afflicted by poverty, sickness, hardship and fear. Since the Jews and Christians were lacking in these fundamental beliefs, deeds and manners; and because they displayed numerous shortcomings in these things - as mentioned in various verses of the Qur’ân - therefore, their haughtiness over facing the Qiblah, their assumption that they are steadfast on the path of guidance, and their assumption that they are entitled to forgiveness is absolutely baseless and absurd. As long as they do not adopt the beliefs, deeds and manners that are explained in detail in this verse, by merely facing the Qiblah they can neither be guided, nor can they attain salvation from the punishment of Allâh �.

Those who are distinguished by the above-mentioned beliefs, actions and manners, it is they who are true in their beliefs, faith and religion. Alternatively, we could say that it is they who are true in word and in spirit. It is they who are virtuous and pious in their manners and their actions. Alternatively, it is they who safeguard themselves from sin, evil, and the punishment of Allâh �. How can the people of the Book, who have not been blessed by even one of these virtues, consider themselves to be righteous? �

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A Healthy Heart (QalbA Healthy Heart (QalbA Healthy Heart (QalbA Healthy Heart (Qalb----eeee----Salîm)Salîm)Salîm)Salîm)

By: Hadrat Maulânâ Abdul Hamîd Sâhib (dâmat barakâtuhum)

Hadrat Ibrâhîm �, the friend of Allah , made Du’â to Allâh � which is mentioned in the Qur’ân Sharîf,

و� ثعبو' ف

زb ي

c

�ال

Do not disgrace me on the day when people will be resurrected.

ننو� �ال

ع ما7

ينف

يو' ال

The day when neither wealth nor sons will be of any benefit

هللا 6 من �

�ليم Pال

ب س

ل بق

Except for him who comes to Allah with a sound heart

From these verses we learn that there is a sick heart as well. We should do an open heart surgery to check the condition of our heart, just as the heart specialists are able to test our cholesterol levels, the good fats, bad fats, etc. in our body. In the above verse, wealth has been mentioned first and then children, therefore we shall commence our talk with our wealth. 1. A person with a healthy heart will spend his wealth in good courses,

ل j kينفق ما m^

The one who spends his wealth in good and virtuous causes

Many people are such that they spend their wealth in evil avenues, yet they find it difficult to spend in good causes. Many people are absolute misers with their wealth. If this is our condition, this is a sign of a sick heart.

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Rasûlullâh said that there are three partners in a person’s wealth. Firstly, a person spends on his daily needs such as transport, food, accommodation, etc. Many people spend on their daily needs and fall short of funds at the end of the month. The second is the wealth that one leaves behind for his heirs. Your share is that which you have sent forth for your Âkhirah, so don’t be the smallest shareholder of your wealth. Check what percentage of your wealth you are spending in the path of Allâh � and how much do you spend on personal luxuries? Hadrat Maulânâ Abrârul Haq Sâhib used to say that an Ustâd that is teaching in a Madrasah should also give some money in charity even though it may be two or five Rands. In the Hadîth, Rasûlullâh is reported to have said,

Gلو بشق تمر� p4ا تقو Save yourself from the fire even though it may be by means of a piece of

date.

2. The second quality of a healthy heart is,

ل q حق!^m يرشد بنيه The one who guides his children towards the truth.

Many people do not even give their children suitable Muslim names as many people want unique names for their children. One person named his child “Tahiyya” which means “a greeting”, whilst another person named his child “Ruwaida” which means a short period of time. Some name their daughters Nazneen which is derived from “Naaz” which means pride. Such a child will then have problems for the rest of her life as the name has an effect on the child. We had visited a certain brother who had named his son Zainul Âbidîn, named after Hadrat Mufti Zainul Âbidîn Saheb , yet the son was dressed in jeans (western dressing). I

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told him Hadrat Mufti SâhIb never wore jeans. So we should name our children after Sahâbah, Sahâbiyât and the pious people. Another issue that affects us is that many parents enrol their children in universities. My Ustâd Hâfiz Salloo Sâhib used to say, “You plant weeds and you expect roses to grow” referring to those parents that enrol their children into universities. One parent enrolled his son into university, after a few weeks he returned informing his father that the university is not a place for us (due to immorality and vice prevalent in such places). We should ask ourselves whether we speak to our children about the Âkhirah? 3. The third quality of a sound and healthy heart is,

^m ال يكو� j قلبه لعقائد Wاطلة The one that does not have any corrupt beliefs within him.

Unfortunately, many Muslims possess superstitious beliefs. Many Muslims follow the Turkish model of Islam or the Salafi model of Islam. Many Muslims believe in Darwins theory of evolution and the big bang theory. These theories are taught to our children in the schools yet these theories are beliefs of Kufr. Imâm Mâlik is reported to have said that the there is no good in the last portion of this Ummah until they follow in the footsteps of those personalities that were in the first part of the Ummah (Rasûlullâh and Sahâbah �). 4. The fourth sign of a healthy heart is,

p4ا q mتعد vل w^m ال يكو� j قلبه غلبة لشهو The one in whose heart lust and desire is not dominant to such an extent

that it takes a person to the fire of Jahannam.

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The starting point of all lust and desire is the eyes, then a person starts a conversation, starts joking, and finally many people saw the black days of their lives. Many get involved in this evil and get more stubborn and continue with this evil. May Allâh save us all! So, a concerted effort should be made to protect our gazes so that we are protected from all the evil that follow. The problem should be nipped in the bud. Therefore Allâh states,

لر�جهم >

و ف

ظبصاpهم z�ف

و من � مؤمن0 فغض�

ل1ل لهللا ق ��P هم

ل}~

ك �

و�

عنصا يب� بم

خ

Tell the Mu’minîn men that they should lower they gazes and guard their chastity, This is purer for them. Allah is informed of what they do.

5. The fifth sign of a healthy heart is,

^m ال يكو� j قلبه غ� هللا The one whose heart is void of everything besides Allâh.

Our hearts should always be concerned of the Âkhirah. In the Qur’ân there are so many Sûrahs wherein Allâh reminds us of the A’khirah, and presents the scene of Qiyaamah before us. The Qabrastaan (graveyard) is a place to remind us of the hereafter, yet many people stand and chat there to such an extent that they have to be told to keep silent. A person may recite on behalf of the deceased from anywhere, but it is Sunnah to go to the Qabrastân to be reminded of our abode and dream house. We supposed to be taking lesson at the Qabrastân as we will also land up in the Qabr, as these people have landed here. In the Qur’ân Sharîf Allâh says,

pجعو� 1�p ا7موw ق

حدهم ل

� Tجا

<P �vح

Until the time arrives when death comes to anyone of them, then he says, “O my Rabb! Allow me to return (to the world)…”

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قمل صا�ا فيما تر ع�1 �

و� ل

عث يو' فب

qP

�ئهم بر~p� ها �من

ائل هو ق

مةها �

� Pغ� ت �

�

So that I may perform good deeds in that (worldly life) which I have left behind. Never! It is merely a statement that they speak. Behind them is

Barzakh (the life of the Qabr) until the day they are resurrected (the day of Qiyâmah).

At the time of death a person will regret the time wasted in the world and desire to return to do good deeds but it will be too late.

عظا� wك� با�و Death is sufficient to serve as a lecturer

(i.e. by thinking of death a person should change his life and come onto Dîn). If one just thinks of death, there is no need to listen to any other lecture or Bayân.

نتبهو ما تو<4اY نيا' � People are sleeping, when they die they will awaken.

So, we should prepare for death, prior to death dawning upon us. We should now give ourselves marks and check whether we have a sound and healthy heart or a sick heart. If we have a sick heart then we require treatment from the spiritual doctors.

Hadrat Maulânâ Abrâr-ul-Haq Sâhib was in hospital in Bombay. The doctors told Hadrat Maulana that he will have to undergo an operation, so he said that I have to consult with my spiritual doctor first. The doctor asked him, “Who is your spiritual doctor?” He told them to gather all the doctors of the hospital and then asked, “Can you tell me how much of pride or anger my body contains, or can you tell me if I have sincerity etc.?” They replied in the negative, so he said that is the job of the spiritual doctor. If we never had these spiritual doctors we wouldn’t have been able to control our nafs (carnal desires) which commands us to do evil. May Allâh grant us the Taufîq to purify ourselves from all spiritual maladies and grant us a sound and healthy heart. Âmîn!

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My heart bleedsMy heart bleedsMy heart bleedsMy heart bleeds

Maulânâ Ridwan KajeeMaulânâ Ridwan KajeeMaulânâ Ridwan KajeeMaulânâ Ridwan Kajee

My heart bleeds, tears flow down my cheeks, but you, O the one to who I have given my heart, shall perhaps never know how much you have made me grieve! (The following was written in reply to a sister complaining of the illicit evils her husband is involved in, which is causing her to bleed from within in pain. The advice rendered hereunder however is general to all who just cannot understand why the world is so evil, why man is so selfish, and why difficulties have been destined in our path. May Almighty Allâh � save us all from trials we cannot bear, and may He accept us as His favorites. Âmîn) May Almighty Allâh � allow all the strength to swim easily through the stormy waves of this world! Have you ever wondered why so many people must suffer, cry, be abused; have their hearts torn apart; see their husbands and children tortured and killed; their wives and daughters beaten, raped, and murdered; see their family members suffer due to some sickness, calamity, etc? Have you ever felt that this world has no justice? Have you ever pondered over why have some been allowed to oppress others, why have some been allowed to break the hearts of others, why have some been made in charge and others made to serve, why have some been made rich and others poor? Have you ever scolded anyone or seen your mother etc, scolding the maid? Why has Almighty Allâh � made this world so full of oppression? Why were people like Firoun, Nimrûd, etc. created? The reason is that this world has never been meant to be Jannah (Paradise). This is a testing ground, a trial, a place where one's love, obedience, patience, etc, is tested to the limit. Was not every Nabî � tested? Did the Sahâbah � not have to cry upon the severity of their tests? Was Yâsir �

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and his wife, Sumayah � not martyred in the cruelest of manners? Were the selected of Almighty Allâh � not put through the severest of tests? If we get saved from one test, understand well that another is sure to grab us. No test is unbearable, for Almighty Allâh � only tests according to our strength. He alone knows how much we can manage. We all desire lives of Jannah, but this has never been the system. If there was some du’â to remove all difficulties, the Sahâbah � would have been the first to have read this du’â and removed all their difficulties. Rather the purpose of the du’âs they were taught was to firmly establish their relationship with Almighty Allâh �. The stronger the connection, the easier it becomes to surf through the waves. The better one gets at surfing, the bigger shall be the waves that follow, but one shall not get drowned in it. We are trying to chase away our problems. That shall never happen until death. Our only solution for happiness in this world is to forget man and start looking at the Creator of man. Man is selfish. He shall never really worry of the feelings of the next, even if one were to sacrifice one's entire life for him. Almighty Allâh � is the only one who truly appreciates. Our love, connection, relation with our Creator needs to reach such a level, that man and his actions remain as mere waves around us, that do not ever drown us. The friends of Almighty Allâh � experience the severest of trials, but act as though they are on the shore. Why? Because their hearts are connected to their Creator, just as how an experienced surfer keeps his feet firm on his board. As soon as his feet slips from his board, that is when he gets wet. When our heart loses its connection, that is when we get affected. Re-establish your connection and strengthen it every time a new problem surfaces. We cannot change others. However

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we can ensure that they do not affect us. He, who is brave, never looks for sympathy. Rather, he gives sympathy to all around. Those, besides Allâh �, to whom you have given your heart to, when they please you, thank Allâh �. And when they disturb you, which they shall surely do, then remember that man has, from the very beginning, been created selfish, and only in Allâh � should we have placed our hopes and trust. If his ways never change, you are at liberty to separate for a while, but never allow him to break your heart, since the heart was never meant for him, but rather for his Creator. Inshâ Allâh, with patience and du’â, the day of his change shall also come. He shall then die for you, knowing what pain he had put you through. Recite continuously the following du’â, and Almighty Allâh � shall make all tests become easier to handle, Inshâ Allâh.

ا ي

1�p

�

طصم بال

غ1لا ب

ناصد

ق م

�

فر

ا غ

ا 4

م

�

ا مر' �سع ي

كل

O Allâh, through the medium of Rasûlullâh �, fulfill our needs

And forgive our past, O Most Kind

Do for Allâh’sDo for Allâh’sDo for Allâh’sDo for Allâh’s ���� pleasure; pleasure; pleasure; pleasure; Allâh Allâh Allâh Allâh ���� will give you frowill give you frowill give you frowill give you from His treasurem His treasurem His treasurem His treasure

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Asmâ’ul HusnâAsmâ’ul HusnâAsmâ’ul HusnâAsmâ’ul Husnâ

THE BEAUTIFUL NAMES OF ALLÂH ALLÂH ALLÂH ALLÂH ����

By: Maulânâ Moosa Kajee Sâhib

��� � � �� �� AlAlAlAl----wahhâbwahhâbwahhâbwahhâb (The Being who Grants Favours)

Al Wahhâb (The Bountiful Giver) - (Continued from last issue)

عن ستحقا� عليه� هو �تفضل بالعطايا �نعم بها ال

Allâmah Halîmî ˛ states, “Al-Wahhâb is that Being who grants so many bounties without anyone being worthy of it

(i.e. it is only the favour and kindness of Allâh ).” Hadrat Ibrâhîm � made this special du’â for this children:

بنصنا' �ج

بد ال

ع ي� � � ب��

“And keep me and my children far from worshipping idols” There is great comprehensiveness in this du’â, because du’â was made for protection of that sin in which there was no possibility of forgiveness (i.e. polytheism and idol-worship). Besides these two actions, if any other sin occurred, it could be expiated by other actions or due to the intercession of someone. If worship of idols is taken to mean every single thing which makes one unmindful of Allâh , as is the view of the Sufiyâ, looking at a broader meaning, then that will be a person’s idol. Becoming overpowered by its love and disobeying Allâh is one type of worship of it. Thus, in this Du’â, protection is being sought from all types of sin. People in a gathering of a pious person were asked what the most difficult task in this era was. Different people answered according to their understanding and knowledge. Most of the people felt that ‘Halâl earnings’ or ‘speaking the truth’ were the most difficult.

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However, the questioner himself answered the question saying that the most difficult task of this era was “the upbringing of children on correct Islamic lines.” Children are not some foodstuff which can be placed in the fridge to prevent is from rotting. They are not some pieces of gold or silver which can be locked up in a box away from danger. A child has to be sent out of his house to educational institutes for attainment of knowledge and experience. For his bodily upbringing he has to be sent to gardens and play-grounds. For social necessities, he meets family and friends from a young age. For his mental improvement, he needs friends. However, these needs are such that while being fulfilled there remains a great fear of these children becoming spoilt, because in the classrooms, gardens and social gatherings, children meet and mingle with other children of their age. Evil spreads like a plague. Also, children due to their young age and weak understanding cannot differentiate between right and wrong. Thus, there always remains the possibility of all the nurturing efforts of the parents coming to naught. Due to all these factors, this question arises that what should we do? The easy and practical answer to his question is that we should make fervent du’â to Al-Wahhâb . Every Muslim should make those du’âs from time to time for the reformation of one’s children, for well-being, for piety, for appropriate spouses, for good fortune, and for their overall success. The du’âs and verses of the Qur’ân are teaching us that we should only ask Allâh . Al-Wahhâb is only Allâh - the Giver of everything. In these three du’âs the word �ه has been used (i.e. gift and grant pious children). Whenever the Ambiyâ � had any need, they would only ask Allâh . They would also teach the creation that they should only ask Allâh for their needs, whether major or minor. When people supplicate to Al-Wahhâb for children, they should also supplicate to Him for reformation and nurturing of children.

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Pious Children - a Source of Joy in both the Worlds The second point learnt from these du’âs is that when the Ambiyâ � made du’â for their children, they supplicated that their children be used to serve Dîn and for them to spread the truth and the word of Allâh to the four corners of the world. “O Allâh! Convey the message of Your tawhîd (oneness) and Your ma’rifat (recognition) to Your creation. Let this work, which is our responsibility continue after us.” Therefore, being the vicegerents of the Ambiyâ �, the purpose of our life should also be Dîn. Whatever we do in the 24 hours of our life, our purpose should be to please Allâh and to raise His Dîn. May Allâh grant us the value and recognition of the work of Da’wat. Âmîn Ulamâ have mentioned that one should not spend in the path of Allâh with the intention that one attains more. By spending one’s wealth, one still remains a slave of wealth. The slave of Allâh is he who spends, seeking only the pleasure of Allâh . Similarly, to make dhikr with this intention that there will be an abundance of sustenance is a weak intention, because the purpose of these adhkâr will only be to attain the benefits of this world. This intention should only be to please Allâh , knowing well that the promises on these actions and adhkâr will definitely be fulfilled. That which is promised cannot be the aim and object. The purpose and object of every work is the pleasure of Allâh and conveying the Dîn of Allâh to the creation. This was the object of the Ambiyâ � that every servant of Allâh should recognize Him, believe in Him, turn away from the path of Jahannam and go towards Jannah. The Ambiyâ � made du’â before their children were born and they continued making du’â after the birth as well. Every Muslim should memorize these du’âs of the Ambiyâ �, and make them for their children, parents, brothers and sisters. More so, when one’s wife has fallen pregnant, then these du’âs should be regularly made, “O Allâh, make this child pious, a servant of Dîn, a caller to Dîn, the coolness of our eyes, make his fortune good, grant him well-being, destine for him good, resurrect him with the

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successful ones, grant him pure and wholesome sustenance with ease, and do not show us grief regarding our children.” Coolness of Our Eyes In another verse, Allâh praises those people who make du’â for the attainment of pious spouses and offspring. Allâh states:

ق0

�تما للنلع�ج

0ق G ر�ا قتني 1pا � >

�جن

~ ا من

4 با هن� pبو�ولقن فف�^ا �

ام

م

“And those who say, ‘O our Rabb, grant us the coolness of our eyes in our spouses and our offspring and make us the leader of

the pious.’” A person should make this du’â of the pious servants of Rahmân , especially after proposal and marriage, for the piety of one’s wife and children, for the children to be a source of the coolness of their parents’ eyes, and for the whole household to become those who please Allâh and become a means of guidance for others. Hadrat Hasan Basrî ˛ states that here the coolness of the eyes means to see one’s children and wife in the obedience of Allâh . Advices 1.) Hadrat Umme-Sulaym � requested Nabî � to make du’â for her son and his servant, Hadrat Anas �. Nabî � made this du’â:

� �� �

kما �

كلهم�

ل

“O Allâh, grant him (Anas �) an abundance of wealth and children.”

2.) This du’â which Ibrâhîm � made, should be made for regular observance of one’s own and one’s children’s Salâh:

TQ� ب�لقي�� pب�نا � ي 1p

لوG � من > م لص�

� مقي

جعل 1�p

“O My Rabb! Make me and my children observers of Salâh and O our Rabb, accept my du’â.”

3.) 1�م�

لله

بك من ما7 يكو� ع��

عو>

�

يكو� ع�� �باال

بك من ��

عو>

ابذ ع

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Page 17

“O Allâh, I seek Your protection from children who will be a burden on me and I seek Your protection from wealth which will be a

means of punishment for me.” All those du’âs mentioned in the Qur’ân and the Ahâdîth can be read in the Sajdah of Nafl Salâh. Since one is closest to Allâh in Sajdah, therefore make long Sajdah and supplicate these du’âs a number of times. The following is mentioned in a Hadîth that from all conditions, Allâh loves to see a person in Sajdah, his forehead rubbing on the ground. A person is closest to Allâh in the condition of Sajdah. The du’âs mentioned previously should be sought from Allâh in the Sajdah of Tahajjud Salâh and other Nafl Salâh as well as in the du’â after Tashahhud and Durûd Sharîf. Clarity: Together with this du’â, the husband and wife should ensure they have some Dînî ta’lîm in the home and practice accordingly. Beautiful Tasbîh before Commencing Du’â

4.) �ا وه�ل

8

ع1� ال

ل 1=p �حا

سب

This is a very beautiful tasbîh in which the quality of Al-Wahhâb is mentioned. At the beginning of one’s du’â, if one recites Durûd Sharîf and this tasbîh, then there is greater hope that the du’â will be accepted. Hadrat Salmah ibn Akwa’ Aslamî � narrates, ‘I never heard Nabî � making any du’â in which he did not commence with these words’

�ا وه�ع1� ل

ل

8

ال 1=p �حا

سب

“My Rabb is pure, most lofty, elevated, giver.” 5.) Hadrat Abû Bakr � made the following du’â:

ل

ة� � غي

Gاافا � مع

نقيا � ي

مان

ب   ف

م� ه

له

“O Allâh, grant me the treasure of Îmân, conviction, well-being, and intention.”

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How intelligent were not the Sahâbah �! When they asked Al-Wahhâb , they asked for an increase in Îmân, conviction and well-being. Îmân and conviction are a very great treasure. Together with them, âfiyat (well-being) is also a great bounty. Everyone of us should make this du’â of Hadrat Abû Bakr � diligently. The one who wishes to establish a connection with this name should realize with conviction that whatever is by him, is not due to his efforts, but it has been gifted by Al-Wahhâb . Similarly, Allâh has granted us Nabî �, the leader of both worlds, the wealth of Îmân and Islam, and the great action of propagation, by which millions of people are emerging from the darkness of disbelief and polytheism into the light of Îmân, and by which they are moving from misguidance onto the path of guidance. �

To be continued, Inshâ Allâh

If you Plant …….

If you plant honesty, you will reap trust.

If you plant goodness, you will reap friends.

If you plant humility, you will reap greatness.

If you plant perseverance, you will reap victory.

If you plant consideration, you will reap harmony.

So watch what you plant..

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Hadrat Maulânâ Shâh Wasîyyullâh Sâhib ˛ on the

Importance of Following the Sunnah Translated By: Maulânâ Mahomed Mahomedy Sâhib

(Hadrat Maulânâ was a senior khalîfah of Hadrat Thânwî ˛. The following is a personal account written by Hadrat

Maulânâ Qamaruz Zamân Sâhib Allâhâbâdî dâmat barakâtuhum)

Hadrat Maulânâ Shâh Wasîyyullâh Sâhib rahimahullâh on the importance of following the Sunnah (He was a senior khalîfah of Hadrat Thânwî rahimahullâh. The following is a personal account written by Hadrat Maulânâ Qamaruz Zamân Sâhib Allâhâbâdî dâmat barakâtuhum) Hadrat was very particular about following the Sunnah in every matter. He would stress and emphasise this forcefully on his associates. As a way of encouraging them, he would say: “This [following the Sunnah] is the shortest and easiest path to Allâh �. Therefore, apart from the prescribed Sunnah acts, we should also practise on the acts which were done out of habit by Rasûlullâh �. By doing this, the doors of goodness and blessings will be opened up on us.” Hadrat would spend several days speaking about the importance of the Sunnats and du‛â’s which are to be adhered to and read when entering and leaving the Masjid, eating and drinking, going to the market place, entering and leaving the toilet, and going to sleep and waking up. He would prompt the people to practise on all this. Hadrat used to say: “Just think about it: A major portion of our time is spent in eating and drinking, entering and leaving, sleeping and waking up, etc. In other words, it is spent in carrying out natural and worldly needs. We have very little time specifically for dhikr and fikr. How, then, can we strengthen our bond with Allâh �? This is why the

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perfect teacher and proficient physician – Rasûlullâh � – taught us various du‛â’s and desirable etiquette for every situation and occasion. By carrying them out, all our time will be spent in Allâh’s remembrance and we will enjoy the honour of the verse:

�� ث�ن هللا ك

كري

�^� wكر

�^

And the male and female believers who remember Allâh abundantly.

“Our actions and deeds which are carried out due to human and natural demands will also be included among our acts of worship.”

�بك خ

حبي

م 8

1 �سل

1م� صل

ه¢لل

ل !بد

هم �ئما �

ق �

خل

O Allâh! Send salutations and peace to Your beloved, who is the best of the entire creation, forever and ever.

Hadrat used to say: “People are desirous of having Rasûlullâh � visiting them in their dream. But this is not within one’s control and choice. So let me teach you something through which you will experience a spiritual visit all the time. You must be conscious of the Sunnah which is applicable to every situation and occasion. After learning it, you must endeavour to practise on it. If you do this, thinking of Rasûlullâh � and imagining him will envelope your heart and mind. And what a wonderful fortune this is!” It is very easy to say these things and they are really very easy. But to be conscious of them and practise on them is solely through Allâh’s � inspiration. If not, there is general forgetfulness in this regard and practising on the Sunnah is abandoned. We should therefore make this du‛â’ to Allâh �: “O Allâh! Inspire me with the ability to emulate the Sunnah of Rasûlullâh � to the full.” I consider it useful to quote a few extracts of Hadrat from Wasîyyatul Akhlâq with regard to following the Sharî‛ah and holding on firmly to the Sunnah. Inshâ Allâh, this will prove to be insightful and beneficial.

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I think that the reason for the general destruction and dire situation of the Muslims today is the total discarding of the Book of Allâh [Qur’ân] and Sunnah of Rasûlullâh �. Whereas Allâh � had sent the Qur’ân for our guidance, and Rasûlullâh � taught us how to practise on and act according to the Qur’ân. After all, the word “Sunnah” is defined as:

ن ي � S

ةوكلمسل ةقري لط�

The path which is followed in Dîn. When we disregarded these fountains of guidance, Allâh � disregarded us. This can result in nothing but destruction and deprivation. (Wasîyyatul Akhlâq, p. 38.) Hadrat writes after a few pages: Preserving the Sunnah is so important and blessed that through it, Muslims can acquire the pleasure of Rasûlullâh � and his du‛â’s. Furthermore, they can reach the rank of martyrs and, not only that, the companionship of Rasûlullâh � in the Hereafter. However, preserving the Sunnah is not possible without genuine love for him. Only through love can the difficulty of emulation become easy. Love for him to the extent where we can follow his Sunnah and adhere to his injunctions is compulsory on every Muslim. Hadrat Khwâjah Muhammad Ma‛sûm ˛ says: Success in both worlds lies in following Rasûlullâh �. Salvation from the Hell-fire and entry into Paradise is dependent on emulating Rasûlullâh �. Moreover, obtaining the pleasure of Allâh � is pre-conditioned to following Rasûlullâh �. Repentance, reliance (tawakkul) and asceticism are unacceptable without following Rasûlullâh �. All one’s adhkâr (different forms of remembrance of Allâh �), concerns, desires and inclinations without the agency of Rasûlullâh � are impractical. Khwâjah Sâhib writes further: It is imperative on the fortunate youth and intelligent seekers to be concerned about emulating Rasûlullâh � internally and externally, and to distance themselves from

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anything which negates his emulation. They must be fully convinced that even if a person were to possess thousands of merits and supernatural talents, but is negligent in following Rasûlullâh �, then the companionship of such a person is a lethal poison. On the other hand, if a person does not possess any merit or supernatural feat (karâmat), but is firm in following the footsteps of Rasûlullâh �, then the companionship of such a person will be a most beneficial elixir. (Tarjumah Maktûbât Ma‛sûmîyyah.) Hadrat was in Mumbai a few days before he could depart for hajj. He sent me to a pîr zâdâh (descendant of a Shaikh) with the following message: Do you know why the present day descendants of Mashâikh are deprived of spiritual treasures? Listen! They do not attach any importance to following the Sunnats of Rasûlullâh � as they do to carrying out the wazîfahs (devotional practices), customs and mannerisms of their forefathers. Consequently, they are deprived of the nûr (effulgence) of following the Sunnah and remain barren as regards spiritual treasures. The pîr zâdâh was very affected by what he heard. Hadrat used to say: “Even the Shaikh and spiritual mentor are not free to do as they will as regards rectification and training. Just as it is essential for a Murîd to adhere strictly to the Sharî’ah and follow the Sunnah, so is the case with the Shaikh. In fact, it is the sole duty of the Shaikh to convey the Murîd to Rasûlullâh �. If he did not do this, he has not fulfilled the responsibility of his position, and did not carry out his obligatory duty.

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CLEARING THE FOG (Part Eleven) 10. Interesting Anecdotes of Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛1

By: Mufti Abdullâh Moolla

The Generosity of Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛ Ibn Hajar Makkî ˛ has written in his famous biography of of Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛, titled, ‘Al Khayrât al Hisân fî Manâqib Al Imâm Abî Hanîfah An Nu’mân’, ‘Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛ was the most generous of people. He used to deal with his companions with the greatest of compassion and goodness. Therefore, he would marry off the needy and he would give them money for their expenses. He would also give them grand gifts. He once saw his student wearing tattered clothing and said, “Sit here until all the people leave.” When the people left, he called the student close and said, “Take whatever is below that prayer mat.” The student lifted the prayer mat and found 10000 dirhams. Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛ and the honour of the Qur’ân When the son of Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛, Hammâd, completed Sûrah al Fâtiha, Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛ gave his teacher a gift of 500 dirhams. (One narration says 1000 dirhams). Looking at this amount, the teacher said, “What work did I do in lieu of which you sent such a huge amount?” Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛ sent word to him, excused himself and said, “Whatever you taught my son, do not take it to be light. By Allâh, if I had more, then looking at the honour of the Qur’ân, I would have given it all to you.” The Business of Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛ Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛ used to do business and he used to send his goods to Baghdad. He used to gather the profits throughout the year and he used it for his needs like food,

1 Adapted and translated from A’immah Arbaʿah ke Dilchasp Wâqiʿât, Maulânâ Muhammad Uways Sarwar, Bayt ul ʿUlûm, Lahore,

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clothing and the rest he used to spend on his teachers and the Hadîth scholars. He used to tell them, “Use it for your needs and praise Allâh Ù for I have not presented any of my wealth. This is because this is the grace of Allâh which He has granted at my hands.”

Wakî’ ˛ says, “Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛ used to say that for 40 years, whenever I would own more than 4000 dirhams, I would separate it from my ownership and I would only keep the 4000. This is because Hadrat ‘Alî � said that 4000 dirhams and less is sufficient for the living of a person. If I did not have this fear that I will need it for trade, I would not have kept a single dirham.”

Sufyân Ibn ‘Uyaynah ˛ says that Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛ used to give charity in abundance and whatever he would get, he would definitely take out and spend in the path of Allâh �. He also used to send gifts in abundance to me, to such an extent that I was once surprised of the vast amount. I mentioned this to one of his students. He said, “If only you saw the gifts which Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛ sends to Sa’îd Ibn Arûbah.” It was his practice never to leave any Hadîth scholar without showing great favour upon him. Prescription for Remembering Once a person buried his wealth and forgot the location. He came to Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛ and requested his counsel. He said, “This is not a matter of jurisprudence that I should explain. However, go and perform Salâh until the morning. You will remember.” This person began to perform Salâh. A quarter of the night had not yet passed when he remembered. He came to Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛ and explained what happened. He ˛ said, “I knew that your shaytân will not allow you to perform Salâh throughout the night. Regret upon you that why did you not perform Salâh throughout the night out of gratitude.” Searching for the Thief Thieves entered the home of someone and took all his clothing. They took an oath from him that he will not inform

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anyone. The person took the oath. When morning came, he saw that the clothing was being sold in the market but he could not say anything. He posed the question to Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛. He replied, “Call all the people of your tribe to me.” When all the people came, he said to them that they should all gather at one place and they should be brought out one by one. When each person is brought out, he should be asked, “Is this the thief?” if it is not the thief, then reply, “No” and if it is the thief, then remain silent. This will be the thief. The thief was subsequently caught and the stolen wealth was returned. In addition, his oath did not break. This is because he did not inform anyone by remaining silent. The Greatest Scholar on Earth Once in the gathering of Muqâtil ibn Sulaymân ˛ a person stood up and said, “I saw in a dream that a person came down from the heavens. He was dressed in white. He stood on the highest minaret of Baghdad and called out, “What great thing have the people lost?” Muqâtil ibn Sulaymân ˛ said, “If this dream of yours is true, then definitely the greatest scholar of the world has passed away.” Subsequently, a little while later news of the demise of Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛ arrived. Muqâtil Ibn Sulaymân ˛ recited, “To Allâh we belong and to Him is our return.” He then said, “Regret that the one who used to remove the difficulties from the ummah of Muhammad � has left the world.” Embodiment of Tolerance and Patience On one occasion Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛ was teaching when a person swore him and uttered profanities against him. He ˛ did not turn to him, nor did he stop his lesson. In fact, he stopped his students from paying attention to him. When he completed and stood up, the person also got up and went with him. He went until the door of the house. He stood there and said, “This is my house. If any of your swearing is left, then finish it so that nothing remains in

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your heart.” Hearing this, the person was ashamed and he never did this again. A similar incident is also reported that the person went with him. When he ˛ went inside, the person carried on swearing. No one replied so he said, “Do you take me to be a dog.” The reply came from inside, “Yes.” Caution at Every Step Once there was a stolen goat that was acquired by someone in Kufa. Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛ was informed of this. He asked the people and enquired about the lifespan of the goat. The view that was settled on was that a goat lives for seven years. Therefore, he did not eat the goat meat of Kufa for seven years. Imâm Abû Hanîfah ˛ was ahead in understanding and in

(To be continued…Inshâ Allâh)

RULES FOR A HAPPY MARRIAGE

Never be angry at the same time.Never be angry at the same time.Never be angry at the same time.Never be angry at the same time.

Never yell at each other unless the house is on fire.Never yell at each other unless the house is on fire.Never yell at each other unless the house is on fire.Never yell at each other unless the house is on fire.

If one of you has to win an argument, let it be the other one.If one of you has to win an argument, let it be the other one.If one of you has to win an argument, let it be the other one.If one of you has to win an argument, let it be the other one.

If you have to criticise, do it lovingly.If you have to criticise, do it lovingly.If you have to criticise, do it lovingly.If you have to criticise, do it lovingly.

Never bring up mistakes of the past.Never bring up mistakes of the past.Never bring up mistakes of the past.Never bring up mistakes of the past.

Neglect the whole world rather than each other.Neglect the whole world rather than each other.Neglect the whole world rather than each other.Neglect the whole world rather than each other.

At least once every day, try to say one kind or complimentary At least once every day, try to say one kind or complimentary At least once every day, try to say one kind or complimentary At least once every day, try to say one kind or complimentary

thing to your husband/wife.thing to your husband/wife.thing to your husband/wife.thing to your husband/wife.

When you have done something wrong, be ready to admit it When you have done something wrong, be ready to admit it When you have done something wrong, be ready to admit it When you have done something wrong, be ready to admit it

and ask for forgiveness.and ask for forgiveness.and ask for forgiveness.and ask for forgiveness.

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Taking the Step

Dedicated to all our young Muslims taking the step into maturity and to those in their teens!

5555. . . . A Mothers RightsA Mothers RightsA Mothers RightsA Mothers Rights

As a youngster we find that it sometimes feels difficult to be associated with one’s mother or father. Some young people find their parents ‘backward’; others feel that they are ‘security guards’, while others think that they are just ‘plain dumb’.

We feel or think like this because our friends might feel or think this way. Maybe our feelings were influenced by the TV or someone spoke in a bad way about our mothers or fathers. Whatever the case may be, Islam teaches us to obey, respect and honour our parents, especially our mothers.

A mother has a strange heart; she gives up many comforts for the sake of her children. She will bear hunger, but will never let her child moan. She will stay awake in the late hours of the night to comfort and caress her child. She will bear the greatest of difficulties to see that her child is smiling. Therefore, beloved friends, we must understand the position of our mothers. We also must know what are the correct thoughts to have about them, and the correct behaviour towards them. If we do this, we will be counted as good Muslims in the eyes of Allâh �.

There are many teachings of Rasûlullâh � about the mother. We present some of them here for you to think about before shouting at your mother, or thinking bad of her or doing something even worse. A man came to Rasûlullâh � and said, “O Rasûl of Allâh, who among the people is the most worthy of my good companionship?” Rasûlullâh � said, “Your mother.” The man said, “Then who?” Rasûlullâh � said, “Then your mother.” The man asked again, “Then who?” Rasûlullâh � said, “Then your mother.” The man asked once more, “Then who?” Rasûlullâh � said, “Then

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your father.” (Sahîh Bukhârî). Rasûlullâh � said, “Jannah lies under the feet of the mother.” (Nasa’î)

There are various rights that every Muslim must fulfil to his/her mother: A mother should not be hurt, even if she is wrong A mother should be respected in word and deed A mother should be obeyed in everything that is permissible If a mother has debts, her children should take care of them Her children should give charity on her behalf

If the mother needs someone to attend to her, it will be better to look after her than to perform extra Salâh and recite the Qur’ân. Her children should make du’â for her after her death. Children should visit the grave of the mother and make du’â for her. If the mother is not a Muslim, even then, care should be taken to fulfil her needs. She should be helped and treated well.

We leave you with two du’â’s from the Qur’ân that you can recite for your mother and father. Recite them regularly and build up in your hearts the importance that mothers and fathers have. May Allâh � guide you all out there. Âmîn

1pG �من >

ال � مقيم لص�

جعل 1�pTQ�

ب�ل

ق ي�� pب�نا �يمن0

مؤ

;� �لل �فر   �لو

ا غ

ن�pب

�سا�و'

يو' فق

My Rabb, make me one who establishes the Salâh and also some of my descendants. Our Rabb, accept my du’â. Our Rabb, forgive me and my parents and the believers on the day when the reckoning takes place .

(Sûrah Ibrâhîm, 40,41)

ما pب�يا� صغ�هما ك

¤p 1��p

My Rabb, show mercy to the two of them just as they brought me up (when I was) small. (Sûrah Isrâ’, 24)

To all parents, teachers and teens: Please forward feedback about the Taking the Step articles. Your comments, criticism and feedback is highly appreciated. It can be forwarded by email to darululum@webmail.co.za This will help in topic selection and method of writing for future issues.