Checklist –Ramadhan's Last Ten Nights and Days

In this blessed month of Ramadhan, we have now come to the grand finale – the last ten days of Ramadhan that are regarded as the “cream” of Ramadhan. In it is a night that Qur'an tells us is better than 1000 months (yes, months…not days!)

The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:

"There has come to you Ramadaan, a blessed month which Allah has enjoined you to fast, during which the gates of heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed, and the rebellious devils are chained up. In it there is a night which is better than a thousand months, and whoever is deprived of its goodness is indeed deprived." (Hadith Narrated by An-Nasaa’i, 2106; Ahmad, Sahih At-Targheeb, 999.)

So, in preparation for the grand finale, here is a checklist of some of the things that we can all do to make the remaining days of Ramadaan work to our advantage:

1) Get in High Gear for the Next few Nights and Days

Time is of the essence. Every moment counts. Whatever you need to do for the next ten days to make the most in `Ibadah, good deeds, reciting Qur'an, dhikr, making du`aa', etc., rewards are going to be multiplied. No one knew about the importance of these days more than the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) would strive hard in worship during the last ten nights of Ramadaan as he did not do at other times.(Hadith Muslim)

If we lose this opportunity, we have to wait another year, assuming we are still around and are in good health and shape to make use of it. Even if we are, we have the past years’ sins on our shoulders and life’s normal trials and tribulations to face the coming year. So, there is no better time to ask Allah to make all that easier than NOW.

2) Get a Copy of the Qur'an and Recite as Often as You Can

Not enough can be mentioned on the benefits and virtues of Qur'an. It is proven in the authentic Sunnah that the Qur'an will intercede for those who read it at night, as Ahmad (6626) narrated from ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Amr that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:

"Fasting and the Qur'an will intercede for a person on the Day of Resurrection. Fasting will say, ‘O Lord, I deprived him of his food and his desires during the day, so let me intercede for him.’ And the Qur'an will say: ‘I deprived him of his sleep at night so let me intercede for him.’ Then they will intercede." (Narrated by Ahmad; classed as sahih by al-Albani in Sahih al-Jami`, no. 3882.)

As is stated in the hadith in which the The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:"Whosoever reads a letter from the Book of Allah will receive a Hasanah (good deed) from it (i.e. his recitation), and the Hasanah (good deed) is multiplied by ten. I do not say that Alif-laam-meem is (considered as) a letter (in reward), rather Alif is one letter, laam is one letter, and meem is one letter." (Reported by At-Tirmidhi, Ad-Darami)

The Messenger of Allah( Blessings and Peace be upon him) said:"The best of you is he who learns the Quran and teaches it." (Hadith Reported by Al-Bukhari)

3) Get your Sins Forgiven

First the bad news –In Musnad Ahmad it is narrated that Thawbaan said: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:

"A man is deprived of provision (Rizq) because of the sins that he commits." (Narrated by Ibn Majah, 4022, ).

And now for the good news –

It was narrated from Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:

"Whoever spends the night of Laylat al-Qadr in Prayer out of faith and in the hope of reward, will be forgiven his previous sins."

4) What to Say on Laylat Al-Qadr

One of the best du`aa’s that can be recited on Laylat Al-Qadr is that which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) taught ‘A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her). It was narrated by At-Tirmidhi, who classed it as sahih, that ‘A’ishah said: I said: “O Messenger of Allah, If I know which night is Laylat Al-Qadr, what should I say?” He said:

"Say: Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibb al-‘afwa fa`fu ‘anni (O Allah, You are All-Forgiving and You love forgiveness so forgive me)."

5) Get in the Class of the Pious People

Allah has described the pious as follows (interpretation of the meaning):

(They used to sleep but little by night (invoking their Lord (Allah) and praying, with fear and hope). (Adh-Dhariyat 51:17)

(And in the hours before dawn, they were (found) asking (Allah) for forgiveness,) (Adh-Dhariyat 51:18)

Allah's Messenger(saw) said:" There is in Paradise an Apartment, the exterior of which can be seen from the interior, and the interior of which can be seen from the exterior. Such apartments have been prepared for those who are Polite in their talk, Provide Food to the Needy, Fast frequently and observe the TAHAJJUD PRAYERS when people are sleep.” (Mishkhat Al-Masabih ; Hadith No. 1232)

6) Finally…

Think of all that you need to ask Allah for and ask Him now. If you haven’t before, this is the time to connect with Him and feel closer to Him. And when you do during these last ten nights and days of this Ramadaan, you would want to do this again and again– even after the month is over.

And finally, when you are in a state of Ibadah (Prayers and worship), please open your heart for others as well and please do remember your brothers and sisters who are in great difficulty all around the world in your prayers. Remember what The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said:

"The supplication that gets the quickest answer is the one made by one Muslim for another in his absence."(Hadith-Reported by Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi)

You snooze…you loose! So strive during these last ten days, as if it would be your last chance to do so. A wise man once said…

“ I will pass this way but once so let me do whatever good I can NOW for I may NEVER pass this way again!”

May Allah Ta’la grants us the wisdom, courage and strength to reap the full benefits of this month…Ameen

Source: www.eislam.co.za

Salatut-Tasbeeh, Its Importance & Method

Written by Mohammad Najeeb Qasmi
Translated into Eng. By Nehal Anwer Qasmi

Salatut-Tasbeeh is a significant prayer in Islam. It wipes out all the sins of a Muslim. Since this Salaah consists of Tasbeeh, therefore, it is called Salatut-Tasbeeh. The particular Tasbeeh, for this Salaah as recommended by the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) in the following Hadith, is Sub-haanallahi Wal Hamdu Lillaahi Wa Laa Ilaaha Illal Laahu Wallaahu Akbar (سبحان الله والحمد لله ولا إله إلا الله والله أكبر). We recite it 75 times in each Rak'ah i.e. 300 times in four Rak'ah.

Abdullah bin Abbas (RA) narrates that the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said to his uncle (Abbas رضي الله عنه): O uncle shall I not give you, Shall I not grant you, Shall I not award you, Shall I not do a mercy on you, Shall I not tell you 10 things when you do them, Allah will forgive your sins: of the future and of the past, new and old, those you have forgotten and those you did knowingly, big and small, hidden and revealed. Then the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) explained the way to offer Salatut-Tasbeeh. Make intention of offering four Rak'ah. In each Rak’ah, recite Surah Fatiha and a Surah from the Qur'an. Once you are finished with it, recite the Tasbeeh 15 times. Then perform Ruku and recite Ruku's usual Tasbeeh, thereafter, recite the Tasbeeh 10 times. After finishing from Ruku, repeat the same Tasbeeh 10 times in Qauma position. Go to first Sajdah and after reciting Sajdah's Tasbeeh, recite the Tasbeeh 10 times. Now go to Jalsah position and repeat it 10 times. Go to second Sajdah again and do as you did in the first Sajdah; that is reciting the same Tasbeeh 10 times after the Tasbeeh of Sajdah. Once you get up from the second Sajdah, sit for a while and recite again the Tasbeeh 10 times. The total number of the Tasbeeh in one Rak'ah is now 75. Do the same in the remaining three Rak'ah and the total number of the Tasbeeh will reach 300.

After explaining the method of Salatut-Tasbeeh the Prophet (PBUH) asked his uncle to pray this Salaah once a day. If not, then every Friday, and even if this is not possible then once a month, and even if this is not possible then once a year, and even if this is not possible then at least once in a lifetime. (Abu Daud; V:1 Page: 190 & Tirmizi; V:1 Page: 109)

There is one another way to offer Salatut-Tasbeeh. That too has been narrated by the same source. Recite the Tasbeeh 15 times after Sana and 10 times after reading a Surah. The rest is same. In this case, you don't need to sit after second Sajdah.

In the afore-mentioned Hadith, it has been asserted by the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) that offering Salatut-Tasbeeh will wipe out all the sins, either they are major or minor. Since we are humans, we are undoubtedly marred in sins. Thus, we ought to offer Salatut-Tasbeeh time and again to purify ourselves from the piles of sins. In fact, not only Salatut-Tasbeeh, even usual Salaah is very effective in removing sins. Once a man kissed a female stranger. But at the same time he realized his sin and came to the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) asking for the remedy of his sin. Allah hence revealed the following verse:

"And establish prayer at the two ends of the day and of the night. Indeed good deeds annul misdeeds. That is a remembrance for the mindful". (Surah Hood: 114)

The man asked the Prophet if this verse has been revealed particularly for me. The Prophet replied no. It is for every person of my community. (Bukhari & Muslim)  

There is another Hadith that the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said, “The five daily prayers and Friday prayer to the next Friday prayer, and the fasting of Ramadan to the next Ramadan, is expiation of the sins committed in between them, so long as major sins are avoided." (Muslim)

The above-mentioned two Ahadith make it clear that the Salaah play significant role in removing sins of a Muslim. Moreover, there are several Ahadith, which emphasize that the remembrance and consciousness of Allah too help seek His forgiveness. The Salatut-Tasbeeh mostly consists of Tasbeeh and remembrance of Allah. Thus, it is quite logical that the Salatut-Tasbeeh will wipe out all the previous sins.

As for the time of Salatut-Tasbeeh, the scholars of Islam do not prescribe specific time for it. It can be offered in any part of the day and night except for the time forbidden. The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) himself said to his uncle after explaining Salatut-Tasbeeh: "Pray it once a day. If you cannot, then once on every Friday. If that too is not possible, then once in a month or once in a year or at least once in the lifetime".

Some people who think Islam as their monopoly object that the Hadith which speaks of Salatut-Tasbeeh is Za'eef (weak). Thus, it has no root in Islam and offering it is sheer bid'at (innovation). However, the fact is that, this Hadith has been recorded by many reliable books of Ahadith. A large number of Hadith scholars of old and modern time including Al Shaikh Nasir Al Din Al-Bani, Muhammad bin Ishaq, Khatib Baghdadi, Abu Bakr Muhammad bin Mansoor Al-Sam'aani, Imam Muslim, Imam Nawawi, Ibnul Hajar Asqalani, Abdullah bin Mubarak, Shaikh Ahmad Shakir etc all of them acknowledged this Hadith as authentic. Therefore, Salatut-Tasbeeh being innovation is out of question.

Some may also argue that the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) personally taught this Salaah to his uncle. So this was not meant to all Muslims. I would say even though the Prophet taught Salatut-Tasbeeh to his uncle, but there is no evidence that it was meant only for his uncle Abbas (RA). Rather there are abundant examples where the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) gave certain commandments on certain incidents. But, those commandments applied for all Muslims. Once the Prophet told a woman that offering Umrah in the moth of Ramdhan is equal in the reward of performing Hajj with me. Apparently, this Hadith is for that woman. But, all the scholars agree that virtue mentioned in this Hadith apply for all the Muslims without any exception.

In short, the Salatut-Tasbeeh is Nafl. It ought to be offered by the Muslims according to their capacity, as it helps to wipe out all the major and minor sins. Calling it bid'at is likely to lead to denial of an authentic Hadith.

May Allah give us taufeeq to offer Salatut-Tasbeeh as much as possible, Ameen!

An Exceptional Prayer…Salaatut Tasbeeh

In life there are occasions and opportunities where a person has a chance to increase in profits and rewards significantly. One such opportunity is the Blessed Month of Ramadaan, wherein rewards are multiplied enormously. This is a time where we can exert ourselves in prayers to gain nearness to Allah Ta’ala.

An exceptional prayer that can be performed in Ramadaan as well as throughout the year is Salaatut Tasbeeh, a special prayer taught to the Muslim Ummah by The Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him).

Salatut Tasbeeh is a special Salaah that carries great rewards and blessings.  Hazrat Abdullah ibn Abbas (R.A) reports that Nabi (S.A.W) said to him: “O Abbas! O my uncle! Should I present to you a gift? Should I bestow something to you? Should I inform you of something greatly beneficial? Should I show you such an act which, if you render it, Allah will forgive all your sins – old and new, those committed in error and those committed deliberately, sins committed publicly or privately? The act is to perform four Rakaats (Salatut Tasbeeh) ... (after the Messenger of Allah (S.A.W) taught him the way of performing this Salaah, he said): If possible, perform this Salaah daily; if you are unable, then perform it once a week. If you are unable, then perform it once a month; if you are unable, then perform it once a year and if you are unable to do even this, then perform it at least once in a lifetime.” (Hadith-Abu Dawood)

WHEN TO PRAY:

This Salaah (namaz) is offered in four rakat at any convenient time and can be read in any part of the day and night keeping in mind the forbidden times for performing Salaah (i.e. Zawal , Sunrise and Sunset times). It is an excellent practice during the Mubarak(blessed) nights of Ramadhaan or on any other auspicious night.

The Tasbeeh(words of praise)  to be recited in Salatut Tasbeeh:

 “Subhan allahi wal hamdulillahi wa la ilaha illal laahu wallahu akbar”  

 The words “La Hawla wala Quwwata illa billahil Aliyyil Azeem” may also be added at the end of the above Tasbeeh.

METHOD:

FIRST RAKA’AH

·         After Thana - 15 Times

·         After the Surah and before Ruku - 10 Times

·         In Ruku after the Tasbeeh - 10 Times

·         In Qaumah (standing position after Ruku) - 10 Times

·         In (first) Sajda after the Tasbeeh - 10 Times

·         In Jalsa (sitting position between the two Sajdas) - 10 Times

·         In (second) Sajda after the Tasbeeh - 10 Times

·         The second, third and fourth Rakaats will be read in the same manner.

Note:

1. In every Rakat, the Tasbeeh will be recited 75 times totalling 300 times in the entire Salah.

2. There are also other methods of praying Salatut Tasbeeh which is correct and acceptable.

POINTS TO REMEMBER:
 

1) Do not count loudly.

2) Do not count by holding a Bead Tasbeeh(prayer beads) or a counter in your hand.

3) You may count by pressing the fingers as a reminder. For example if you are in Ruku. You may press small finger of your right hand first for the first count, then the finger next to it for second count, then the middle finger for third count, following this method until you reach the small finger of left hand will give you an exact count of ten. Use the same method in Qiyaam, Sajdah and Jalsa.

May Allah Ta’ala accept our ibadah(worship) and grant us an elevated position in Jannah(paradise).

Source: www.eislam.co.za

THE IMPORTANCE OF TAHAJJUD PRAYERS

Among the most virtuous Nafl (voluntary prayers)is the The Tahajjud Prayer or Qiyamulail. It is part of the established Sunnah of The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him).

Ordering The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) to perform Tahajjud, Allah Almighty says:

“And during a part of the night, pray Tahajjud beyond what is incumbent on you; maybe your Lord will raise you to a position of great glory.” (Qur’an:Al-Isra’ 17:79)

This order, although it was specifically directed to The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) also encourages all Muslims to practice it. Moreover, performing the Tahajjud Prayers regularly qualifies one as one of the righteous and makes one earn Allah’s bounty and mercy. In praising those who perform the late night Prayers, Allah says:

“And they who pass the night prostrating themselves before their Lord and standing” (Qur’an Al-Furqan 25:64)

There are a number of Ahadeeth that reinforce the importance of Tahajjud.

`Abdullah ibn Salam reported:

“When the Prophet SAW came to Madinah, the people gathered around him and I was one of them. I looked at his face and understood that it was not the face of a liar. The first words I heard him say were: ‘O people, extend the salutations, feed the people, keep the ties of kinship, and pray during the night while the others sleep, and you will enter Paradise in peace.’” (At-Tirmidzi)

Salman Al-Farsi (RA) quoted the Prophet SAW as saying:

“Observe the night Prayer; it was the practice of the righteous before you and it brings you closer to your Lord and it is penance for evil deeds and erases the sins and repels disease from the body.”(At-Tabarani)

ETIQUETTE OF PRAYER

Although it can be performed before sleeping but it is highly recommended to read it in the latter part of the night, just before the time of Fajr Salaah sets in. Upon going to sleep, one should make the intention to perform the Prayers. Abu Ad-Darda’ quoted The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him as saying:

“Whoever goes to his bed with the intention of getting up and praying during the night, but, being overcome by sleep, fails to do that, he will have recorded for him what he has intended, and his sleep will be reckoned as a charity (an act of mercy) for him from his Lord.” (An-Nasa'i and Ibn Majah)

On waking up, it is recommended that one wipes the face, use a miswaak(toothbrush), and look to the sky and make the supplication which has been reported from The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him.

Abu Huzaifah (RA)reported:

“Whenever the Prophet intended to go to bed, he would recite: “With Your name, O Allah, I die and I live.” And when he woke up from his sleep, he would say: “All the Praises are for Allah Who has made us alive after He made us die (sleep) and unto Him is the Resurrection.” (Hadith -Al-Bukhari)

`Aishah (RA)said:

“When The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him ) prayed during the late-night, he would begin his Prayers with two quick raka’ats.” (Hadith-Muslim)

The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) used to often recite long rakaats of Tahajjud Salaah. Narrated by Al-Mughira(RA):

“The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) used to stand (in the prayer) or pray till both his feet or legs swelled. He was asked why (he offered such an unbearable prayer) and he said, "should I not be a thankful slave."(Hadith-Bukhari)

It is recommended that one wakes up one’s family, for Abu Hurairah(RA) quoted The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) as saying:

“May Allah bless the man who gets up during the night to pray and wakes up his wife and who, if she refuses to get up, sprinkles water on her face. And may Allah bless the woman who gets up during the night to pray and wakes up her husband and who, if he refuses, sprinkles water on his face.” (Hadith-Ahmad)

The Prophet SAW also said:

“If a man wakes his wife and prays during the night or they pray two raka’ats together, they will be recorded among those (men and women) who (constantly) make remembrance of Allah.” (Hadith-Abu Dawud)

If one gets sleepy while performing Tahajjud, one should sleep. This is based on the hadith narrated by `Aishah RA, who quoted The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) as saying:

“When one of you gets up during the night for Prayer and his Qur’anic recital gets mixed up to the extent that he does not know what he says, he should lie down.” (Hadith-Muslim)

Recommended Time for Tahajjud

Tahajjud may be performed in the early part of the night, the middle part of the night, or the latter part of the night, but after the obligatory `Esha’ Prayer (night Prayer).

While describing The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him)way of performing Prayer, Anas RA said:

“If we wanted to see him praying during the night, we could see him praying. If we wanted to see him sleeping during the night, we could see him sleeping. And sometimes he would fast for so many days that we thought he would not leave fasting throughout that month. And sometimes he would not fast (for so many days) that we thought he would not fast during that month.” (Hadith-Al-Bukhari, Ahmad and An-Nasa’i)

Commenting on this subject, Ibn Hajar(RA) says:

“There was no specific time in which The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him)would perform his late night Prayer; but he used to do whatever was easiest for him.”

It is best to delay this Prayer to the last third portion of the night. Abu Hurairah RA quoted the Messenger of Allah SAW as saying:

“Our Lord descends to the lowest heaven during the last third of the night, inquiring: ‘Who will call on Me so that I may respond to him? Who is asking something of Me so I may give it to him? Who is asking for My forgiveness so I may forgive him?’” (Al-Bukhari)

`Amr ibn `Absah RA reported that he heard The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) saying:

“The closest that a servant comes to his Lord is during the middle of the latter portion of the night. If you can be among those who remember Allah the Exalted One at that time, then do so.” (At-Tirmidzi)

The Number of Raka’ats in Tahajjud

Tahajjud Prayer does not entail a specific number of raka’ats that must be performed, nor is there any maximum limit that may be performed. But atleast two rakaats should be performed. Samurah ibn Jundub RA said:

“The Messenger of Allah ordered us to pray during the night, a little or a lot, and to make the last of the Prayer the Witir Prayer.” (At-Tabarani and Al-Bazzar)

Source: http://eislaminfo.blogspot.in

The Dynamic Nature of Ramadaan

By Abu Muhammed

Have you ever noticed that in Ramadaan how it is that everyone’s days (and nights) seem to rotate around their salaah(prayer) times and how easy it is to fast for long periods, perform Salaah, recite the Quraan, spend more time in the Masjid and to do good ?  Business appointments are deliberately avoided close to salaah times and trips to shopping malls are strictly to get what’s required, recreation curtailed and ‘entertainment’, almost nonexistent.  Journeys, if necessary, are planned in such a manner that destinations are reached before the time of futoor (opening of the fast).  In summation we can safely say that life is taken very seriously and time scrupulously spent.

A famous contemporary scholar was often heard saying,

‘If our lives are spent as we spend Ramadaan then death (our meeting with Allah Jalla Wa A’ala) will be enjoyable to us as the joy we feel at the sighting of the crescent of Eidul Fitr’

One of the most salient aspects of the Shariah (The Body of Islamic Law) is that almost all the formal acts of Ibaadah (Worship) have been fixed. It can be safely said that the temperament of Ibaadah in Islam is very ‘time and place’ specific.

·         Haj in the month of Zhul Hijjah (8th to the 12th) in the city of Makkah and its surrounds of Mina, Arafah and Muzdalifa

·         Zakaat once a year (Lunar) fixed

·         Salaah fixed five times a day at specific times, and

·         Fasting in Ramadaan

The maximum benefit of these acts of Ibaadah will be reaped when they are done at their specific times and places. An example to emphasise the point is that most Muslims are aware of the great virtue of the day of Arafah (9th Zil Hijjah) during Hajj (pilgrimage).  It is a day wherein Allah frees the most souls from Jahannum (Hell) and displays His Mercy and Forgiveness in waves and torrents like no other time.  Arafah is essentially a desert plain with little or no vegetation. If a person were to be on the plains of Arafah on every other day of the year other than the 9th of Zhul Hijjah he will not benefit from the great rewards of Arafah.  An example pertaining to Ramadaan is that if a person, with a valid reason, misses the fast of Ramadaan he cannot acquire the spiritual benefit of that one fast were he to fast for the entire year out of Ramadaan. The Qadha fast (late fulfillment) will fulfill his obligation but detract from the benefit of that fast in its original place and time.

While there will be those who argue that the Shariah is not so stringent and allows for leeway there is great wisdom in fixing the formal acts of Ibaadah (Worship). Breaking away from a high profile meeting or stopping in the middle of an important task at work and heading off for Salaah to the local Masjid for the congregational prayer may not seem very different to fulfilling the obligation of Salaah after the meeting or completing one’s task but upon closer scrutiny under a ‘spiritual’ microscope one will find an important difference. In the first instance a person has put the command of the Creator – Allah Jalla Wa A’ala – before everything else while in the second instance, while not making a verbal statement, a person has given priority to his meeting or task over the fulfilling of the command of Allah Jalla Wa A’ala. The former is precisely the aim and objective of Shariah. After all we are the ‘Ibaad – Slaves’ of Allah Jalla Wa A’ala and as Hasan Basri (May Allah have mercy on him) says ‘a slave can have no other wish than to fulfill the wish (command) of his/her Master’. Fulfilling the command of Allah Jalla Wa A’ala is another name for ‘Worship’ which is the objective of the short and transitory life of a Human Being (Qur’an Surah 51, Verse 56) on this earth and determines the extent of his/her success or failure in the Akhira (the Hereafter)

From this perspective then, Ramadaan is a practical exercise and lesson in learning Uboodiya (Slavery) to one’s Creator where one’s 24 hour day becomes consciously focused at fulfilling the Command of one’s Creator over and above all the ‘commands’ of a personal or vocational nature.  Ramadaan is also proof to us that we do have the ability and capacity to dedicate ourselves towards a life of conscious worship of Allah Jalla Wa A’ala and not just one month of the year. One drawback is that we limit our niyyah (intention) only for Ramadaan.

As mentioned at the beginning, we find that in Ramadaan it becomes easy to good deeds. This is the coming in to play of the powerful force that is collectivity in thought and action as well as the effect of an environment. Islam recognises the powerful force of social pressure towards conformance and adherence.

This is borne out by the famous saying of the Noble Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) narrated by Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri (May Allah be pleased with him) about a man from the previous nations who killed ninety nine people and then desired forgiveness. It is a lengthy narration but the crux of the matter was that he was forgiven, because the advice given to him by a scholar to maintain his state of Taubah (repentance) was, ‘Go to such and such land; there (you will find) people devoted to prayer and worship of Allah, join them in worship, and do not come back to your land because it is an evil place’ (Hadith-Bukhari & Muslim)

This movement towards the environment of righteousness was the deciding factor that secured his forgiveness. This highlights the great effect that company and/or environment can have on influencing the actions of individuals and in turn communities and societies. This is also corroborated by another saying of the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) narrated by Abu Musa Al Ash’ari (May Allah be pleased with him) wherein the similitude of good and bad company (environments) is likened to a person spending time in the company of a perfume seller and a blacksmith. The least one will benefit from the former is a pleasant scent (without buying) while the latter will cause one to obtain an unpleasant and foul smell and may even burn one’s clothing. (Hadith-Bukhari & Muslim)

The concept of ‘every man for himself and God for all’ is alien to Islam. Islam promotes the idea that ‘the strength of the community lies in the strength of the individual and in turn the strength of the individual lies in the strength of the community’. That is why the encouragement towards good and the forbidding of evil has been made an individual and collective obligation.

Upon closer perusal we will find that the formal acts of worship in Islam while, being ‘time and place’ specific, are also very social and communal with an emphasis on collectivity and public benefit. This can be seen in the institution of Salaah, Haj, Zakaat as well as in Ramadaan.

Therefore in Ramadaan we find it easy to do more good because everyone is in the same frame of mind, understanding the magnitude that is the month of Ramadaan, as well as consciously making an effort practically to maximise this great opportunity to earn good. This in turn creates an environment that generates energy and buzz that is an impetus for all acts of Ibaadah (Worship) even for those of us who normally feel lazy and disinclined.

Ramadaan presents an excellent opportunity for positive individual and collective change. The first step towards achieving this would be, not to limit our niyyah only to Ramadaan but to make the niyyah that Ramadaan be the beginning of change for us. Once we do so the next step would be to attach ourselves after Ramadaan to such people and environments where such A’amaal (practices) are in vogue that would enhance and maintain all that we had reaped in Ramadaan. If we spend one Ramadaan to the next Ramadaan for the balance of our lives in this manner then have no doubt that the time of meeting with Allah Jalla Wa A’ala (death) will be enjoyable to us as the joy we feel at the sighting of the crescent of Eidul Fitr...if not more!!!

And the one who achieves this has fulfilled the purpose of creation and passed the test that is called ‘LIFE’ and is entitled to an eternal and everlasting life of bliss and happiness.

******

Source: http://eislaminfo.blogspot.in/

8 Easy Steps to Recite the Entire Qur’an this Ramadan

By Haafidha Rayhaanah Omar  (Fee Qalbee blog)

It has been said that everything has a beloved & that the month of Ramadan has a beloved, too: The Glorious Qur’an. For the duration of this month, Muslims worldwide honour Ramadan’s beloved and aspire to complete the recitation of the Qur’an.

In this article you’ll learn how you too can work towards achieving this noble goal, insha’Allah.

STEP 1: ESTABLISHING AN INTENTION

Our beloved Messenger of Allah(peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him) taught us – through his words & actions – the importance of one’s intent or purpose. Establishing one’s intention is an effective catalyst for implementation. Once your intention has been established, remember to renew it often. Whilst reciting and even upon completion of the Qur’an, recall your intention and renew it, thus ensuring that it is constantly purified & you are seeking His Divine Acceptance, inshaAllah.

STEP 2: DON’T BE OVERWHELMED

For some, as much as they aspire to complete the recitation of the Qur’an during Ramadan, they are overwhelmed by the number of pages or the length of some Surahs. Remove ‘I can’t’ from your vocabulary and eliminate negative thinking, for the believer puts their trust in Allah, matched by striving with their actions. Remind yourself that you are (if Allah wills) fully capable of achieving your Qur’anic aspirations, whether it be completing Qur’an 1 or 5 times. This second point is key. Put your heart into this accomplishment & reap the rewards throughout, inshaAllah.

STEP 3: PLAN AHEAD

Prior to commencing with your recitation it’s important to plan around your routine and block out time for your Qur’an goal e.g. your work hours, rest hours & any other commitments which you may have. Structure a realistic plan of how to complete the recitation of Qur’an within the month by dividing each Juz per day. Draw up this personal plan, review it constantly, and put it into action!

As you put your plan to paper, consider past Ramadan’s and ask yourself if there have been instances where you were unable to complete Qur’anic recitation. Reflect over why and how this occurred. Is there a different mechanism that you could put into place? How could you enhance your daily Qur’an routine if these distractions were dealt with?

Take the first opportunity that comes, to begin your Qur’anic quest. So when the moon is sighted & the announcement has been made for the 1st Salaatul-Taraweeh, begin in earnest, with Surah Al-Fatiha, Surah Al-Baqarah etc.

STEP 4: UNDERSTAND THE QUR’AN

Read the translation of the Juz you will be reciting daily. Having a basic knowledge of the theme, topic, message & meaning of what you are reciting makes the recitation of the Qur’an an incredibly uplifting experience that you do not want to miss out on!

STEP 5: FIND QUR’AN BUDDIES AND COMPETE IN GOOD

Develop close bonds with brothers/sisters who are known for their attachment to the Qur’an. They’ll be your spiritual friends. Engage a Qur’an Buddy in your noble Qur’an productivity goals. Request that they remind you to fulfil your goals and spiritual aspirations so they can help you in times of slacking.

In life, we compete with many materialistic goals and race one another, but what about following the footsteps of the best of generations that had come before us in a competition this Ramadan? In striving and competing with our friends and colleagues towards our noble goals, in a good-natured way, we can motivate ourselves to finish our Qur’an goal.

One of the common aspects which deter a Muslim from completing this task is excessive communication. Often, many of us spend too much unnecessary time surfing the net, chatting, texting, etc… . Reduce this even by a third and you will see, feel and witness the blessings in your time, inshaAllah.

STEP 6: SEIZE THE MOMENT

A deeply inspiring story in ‘lessons from the waiting room’ – where a mother; who has taken her unwell child to the hospital; waits for the doctor to see to her child. She notices a young Muslim who uses his time in the waiting room, in a most effective & spiritually rewarding way, reciting from a pocket-sized Quran. Lesson to be taken here: Invest in a pocket-sized Qur’an and make it your best friend this Ramadan. Seize every opportunity and moment to be with Allah (glorified and exalted be He) through your recitation.

One of the best times at which to recite Qur’an, is after Suhoor(pre- dawn meal). Having partaken from the Sunnah meal, and within an hour or two still to go before work or school, this is the ideal jump start to your day. The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him) asked Allah (glorified and exalted be He) to bless our Ummah in the early hours, and you will also be more likely to memorise ayahs at this time. Research shows that morning study creates better performance in students so don’t miss the morning recitation!

Time Tip: Salah Followed by Qur’an.

Consider the following option that has worked well for numerous people in past Ramadan’s. Try reciting 6 – 8 pages of Qur’an (depending on the Mus-haf(copy of the Qur’an) that you are using) after each of your 5 daily salah. Add Qiyaamul-Layl (late night salah) as a 6th addition, and you will reach the end of Ramadan, having completed your Qur’an recitation with ease & perhaps, even before the last 5 days of Ramadan so long as you remain committed.

Time Tip: Recite before going to sleep.

Allah (glorified and exalted be He) says: “Indeed, the hours of the night are more effective for concurrence and more suitable for words” (Qur’an73:6). Reciting during the day is also beneficial, however the night time recitation is easier as well during Ramadan as there are less distractions and noise.

STEP 7: REMAIN STEADFAST AND CONSISTENT

The key to any success is consistency. Once you’ve mapped your plan, stick to it. Remind yourself of the greatness of this month, of the opportunities that it provides for your spiritual growth and your relationship with the Qur’an. Don’t be willing to compromise it in this month.

STEP 8: MAKE DUA’A TO ALLAH (GLORIFIED AND EXALTED BE HE)

Nothing can be achieved without the aid and guidance of Allah (glorified and exalted be He). When making your intention to complete your recitation or memorisation of Qur’an, supplicate to Allah (glorified and exalted be He) to ease this noble pathway and to crown your efforts with success, inshaAllah.

These are the 8 ways I wanted to share with you on starting and completing your journey through recitation of the Qur’an this Ramadan. Indeed, Allah (glorified and exalted be He) says in Surah Al-Baqarah: “This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah.’’ In the hours of the days and nights of this sacred month, may the Qur’an be your companion of light and guidance, resonating through your words, actions and life mission. May your relationship with the Qur’an be strengthened, enriched & enlivened with the profound wisdom and divine message from Allah (glorified and exalted be He).

Source: http://eislaminfo.blogspot.in

THE IMPORTANCE OF SADAQATUL-FITR

Sadaqatul fitr is compulsory charity which becomes payable on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr.

The Noble Messenger of Allah ( Sallallâhu 'alayhi wasallam) said:

"The fast remains suspended between Heaven and Earth until the fitrah is paid."

Rasulullâh Sallallâhu ‘alayhi wasallam made charity of Fitr compulsory as a purification of fasts from useless talks and vile discourses and also as food to the poor

(Hadith-Abû Dawûd).

Fitr means to break fast or to refrain from fasting. Hence the Eid after the fasts of Ramadhân is called Eid-ul-Fitr, as it is the day of rejoicing after the completion of fasting. On this occasion of happiness, as a sign of gratitude one has to give a specific amount in aims, which is called Sad'qatui-Fitr. To purify and obtain complete blessings for the fasts of Ramadhân Mubârak one has to give Sadaqatul-Fitr. Thus it is wâjib to give Sadaqatul-Fitr to purify one's fast. The true object in giving Sadqatul-fitr on this happy, occasion is also to assist the poor and needy, so that, they may rejoice with the more fortunate.

Sadaqatul Fitr (or fitrah) is wâjib upon all Muslims -male, female and children fitrah should preferably be paid before the Eid Salâh.

It is not permissible to delay the payment of fitrah later than the Day of Eid.

What amount Should be paid

The amount of Sadqatul Fitr is 1.633kg of wheat or 3.266kg of barley or the equivalent in cash. Please consult your local Islamic Scholars for exact amount.

It is highly recommended that this amount is paid in advance so that the contributions could be used for the benefit of the poor on Eid day.

For a detailed article and rules on Sadaqatul Fitr please visit:

http://eislaminfo.blogspot.com/2011/08/sadqatul-fitr.html

Laylatul Qadr: The Night of Power!

Allah, Most Wise, says:

"The Night of Power is better than a thousand months." (97:3 Quran)

The Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) is reported to have said:

“Whosoever stands in "Ibaadah" on this night, with sincere faith and with genuine hopes of gaining reward, his previous sins will be forgiven." (Hadith-Bukhari and Muslim)

"Seek it (laylatul qadr) in Ramadan in the last ten nights. For verily, it is during the odd nights, 21st 23rd, 25th, 27th, 29th or the last night of Ramadhan." (Sahih Hadith Ahmad 5:318)

From traditions we learn that among the signs of this night is that it is a serene, quiet, shining night, neither hot, nor cold but temperate as if a moon is shining clear, and no meteors are shot at the "Shayateen" on that night; it lasts until the break of the dawn. Another sign is that at morn, the Sun rises without any radiant beams of light, appearing rather like the moon in it's fullness. On that day, Allah prohibits the "Shayateen" from rising up with the Sun.

What to do on this night?

Worship during this night can take on many forms. Here are a few suggestions to help you through Laylatul Qadr:

• Take a vacation for Allah! If possible, take a vacation for the last 10 days of Ramadan.Plan ahead if you are working.
• Discuss the importance of this night with your friends and family. Create an atmosphere for ibadah(worship).

• Perform Itikaaf (seclusion in a musjid for worship) –Try to spend full ten days in I’tikaf. If you cannot spend all 10 days in Itikaaf, then do as many days as you can - even if it is only one day. According to the Messenger of Allah (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam whosoever performs "I'tikaaf" for a day thereby seeking the pleasure of Allah, Allah will spread three trenches between him and the fire of Hell, the width of each trench being greater than the distance between Heaven and the Earth."

• Increase the recitation of the Qur'an- Try to recite as much Qur’an as possible. There is great virtue in recitation. (reflect on the meaning of the verses, especially the verses used in Salah. This will help you concentrate)

• Increase Salah (prayer).Read as many Nawaafil (optional)Prayers as possible. Eg Tahajjud Salaah, Salatul Tasbih etc

• Make abundant Zikr (i.e remembering Allah, sending salawaat on our beloved Rasulullah(salallaho alaihe wassallam) and making Istigfaar(seeking forgiveness from Allah]

• Dua (Asking from Allah)- Spend lots of time begging from Allah to fulfil your needs and the needs of the Ummah both in this world and the hereafter. Ramadaan is replete with moments when duas are accepted. Aaisha (Radhiallaho anha) reports: "I said: 'O Messenger of Allah (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam), should I find myself the "Laylatul Qadr", what shall I pray. The Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam) replied: say, Allaahumma innaka afuwwun tohibbul'afwa fa'fu anna "O Allah, Thou art the One who grants pardon for sins. Thou lovest to pardon, so pardon me." (Hadith-Recorded by Ahmad, Ibn Majah, and at-Tirmithi)

• Make list of Things you need from Allah-Ask yourself what you really want from Allah. Make a list of each and everything, no matter how small or how big it is, whether it deals with this world or the hereafter. Allah loves to hear from us and wants us to beg of Him. Once this list is ready then use it in your prayers.

• Best time for dua- Make long, sincere and deep Duas. One of the best times to do this is during the last part of the night especially at the time of suhoor (sehri).  Abu Huraira, may Allah be pleased with him, related that Rasulullah (salallaho alaihe wassallam) said: When the last one-third of the night remains, our Lord, the Glorious One descends towards the heaven of the earth and proclaims: Who is that who supplicates for Me, and I grant his supplication? Who is that who begs Me for anything and I grant it to him? And who is that who seeks My forgiveness, and I forgive him? (Hadith-Bukhari, Muslim).

• Take regular breaks during the night to avoid getting over-exhausted. Try switching between different forms of worship.

May Allah accept our prayers and allow us to take full benefit of this Mubarak Night..Ameen

For a detailed article on Laylatul Qadr (Night of Power) in the light of Qur’an and Hadith please visit:

http://eislaminfo.blogspot.com/2011/08/lailatul-qadr-night-of-power.html

I'TIKAF: The Spiritual Retreat

By E Islam Team

The Messenger of Allah (blessings of Allah be upon him and his family) is reported to have said:

"The persons who secludes himself (for I'tikaf) in true faith and hope (of reward from Allah), all of his previous sins shall be forgiven." (Kanzul Ummal, Hadith 24007)

The meaning of Itikaf is to seclude oneself in the Masjid with the express niyyah (intention) of Itikaf.

Allah has indeed in his perfect wisdom created humanity in a unique way. He has made it such that from time to time His creation needs a rest. We rest at night to give our bodies time to recover. Birds retire to their nests, horses to their stables, bees to their hives etc. However there comes a time when more intensive rest or retreat is required. Sometimes due to a person's physical condition he is admitted into the hospital’s intensive care unit allowing his or her body time to recover.

Likewise the soul also needs to recover from the hustle and bustle of the world, the spiritual pollution caused by evil elements of society, the rat race of wanting, desiring and acquiring more of this world and the distractions that has diverted our mind, heart and soul from the remembrance of Allah Ta'ala and His Beloved Messenger Muhammad (peace be upon him).

The Intensive Care Unit(ICU) for the soul is the Musjid and Itikaf is the facitilty within this ICU to allow the soul to not only recover but be spiritually rejuvenated!

Itikah is indeed a Spiritual Retreat!

Inside each and every human being, a constant battle rages. It is like a battle between two wolves. One of the wolves is evil. It is full of hate, lust, and greed. His fangs drip with bitterness and strife. The other wolf is a good one. He is full of love, compassion, and honesty. He never betrays his brother.

These two wolves are constantly at war. Which wolf is going to win the battle?

The answer is quite obvious…. Whichever one you feed.

Our soul is being bombarded by forces of good and evil. We need to feed it good so that it overpowers the evil….and Itikaf is indeed an excellent opportunity to achieve this.

Since the life of the transient world keeps us busy for the whole year in studies, work, social functions, business, travelling and other such things that causes us to be negligent of our souls and the next life, we may sometimes think that these things are the sole purpose in life and thus, we end up forgetting our true goal – Allah (Glory and Greatness be to Him). Thus, it is for this reason that I'tikaf is referred to as "The spring of life in a world struck with the drought of negligence of Allah (Glory and Greatness be to Him)."

It is the negligence of ourselves and our Creator which is given a fresh breath of life during Itikaf. In addition, we can once again find ourselves and our Lord and spiritually return back to Him before we are forced to return back to him by the separation of the soul from the body in a state of complete negligence of Him. 

The period of I'tikaf is the best time to force one's self to sit and think and reflect on the self and the world around; the period of the I'tikaf is the best time to forget the worries of the transient world and to return to nurturing the soul and linking oneself with the Creator of the soul; the period of the I'tikaf is the best time to return back to Allah (Glory and Greatness be to Him) in true repentance for our sins committed through the year and to give our souls the spiritual strength desperately needed to live a spiritual and pure life in this challenging world.

Rasulullâh Sallallâhu 'alayhi wasallam always observed, I'tikâf and the Muslims have on the whole adhered to it. It has become a regular feature of the month of Ramadhân and a confirmed practice with the devout and the faithful.

Hazrat Ayesha Radiallâhu anha relates that "Rasulullâh. Sallallâhu 'alayhi wasallam regularly observed I'tikâf during the last ten days of Ramadhân till the end of his life. After him, his wives maintained the tradition." (Hadith-Bukhari)

It is related by Hazrat Abû Huraira Radiallâhu anhu that "Rasulullâh Sallallâhu 'alayhi wasallam observed I'tikâf for ten days every year in the month of Ramadhân. In the year he passed away he observed it for twenty days." (Hadith-Bukhari)

3 TYPES OF ITIKAF

WAAJIB ITIKAF

This Itikaf becomes compulsory when a person makes it obligatory upon himself. An example of this is, when a person makes a vow to Allah that if Allah fulfills a certain wish of his, he will under take to perform so many days Itikaf. In this case the moment his wish is fulfilled, Itikaf becomes compulsory. A person may just make unconditional vow whereby he makes Itikaf Waajib upon himself for certain number of days. This becomes a Waajib duty on him from that moment onward.

SUNNAH ITIKAF

This was the general practice of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) and it means to seclude oneself inside the Masjid for the last ten days of Ramadhan.

NAFIL ITIKAF

There is no special time or specific number of days for Nafil Itikaf. A person may make niyyah for any number of days at any time, even for his whole life

For a detailed article on Itikaf and its rules please visit :

http://eislaminfo.blogspot.com/2010/08/itikaf.html

Benefits of Ramadan

1. Fasting in Ramadan helps in achieving Taqwaa.

Allaah says: “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous (achieve Taqwaa)” (Al-Baqarah, 2:183)

When we change our attitude while fasting and have a good mental state, we can achieve Taqwaa. Jabir ibn Abullah said,

“When you fast, your hearing, your vision, and your tongue should also fast by avoiding lies and sins. You should not abuse your servant. You should maintain your composure and dignity on the day you fast. Do not make your fasting day the same as your normal day.” (Musannaf Ibn Abi Shaybah)

2. Double reward of fasting:

“Whoever feeds a fasting person will have a reward like that of the fasting person, without any reduction in his reward.” (Al Tirmidhee)

Ibn Taymiyah said:

What is meant by giving him iftaar is giving him enough to satisfy him. (Al-Ikhtiyaaraat, p. 194)

3. Reading Qur’an in Ramadan assists in attaining “Taqwaa”

Reading Qur’an in this month assists in attaining “Taqwaa” since it is one of the main objectives of the revelation of the Qur’an. Allaah says: “(It is) an Arabic Qur'an, without any deviance that they might become righteous.” (Az-Zumar, 39:28)

4. A means of gaining forgiveness of sins:

The Prophet (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam) said:

a. “Whoever fasts Ramadan out of faith and in the hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” (al-Bukharee, 2014; Muslim, 760)


b. “…from one Ramadan to the next are expiation for sins committed in between, so long as you avoid major sins.” (Saheeh Muslim (233))

5. Steadfastness and Patience:

Fasting helps in developing a strong will power. Fasting is patience in obeying Allaah, patience in keeping away from the things forbidden by Allaah, and patience in bearing the decree of Allaah, hunger, thirst, physical and mental weakness. So it combines all three types of patience, thus the fasting person deserves to be counted as one of the patient, and Allaah says:

“Indeed, the patient will be given their reward without account." (Az-Zumar, 39:10)

6. Seeking Laylatul Qadr:

Prophet (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam) said:

“There has come to you Ramadan, a blessed month which Allaah has enjoined you to fast, during which the gates of heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed, and the rebellious devils are chained up. In it there is a night which is better than a thousand months, and whoever is deprived of its goodness is indeed deprived.” ( An-Nasa’ee, 2106; Ahmad, 8769.)

7. Fasting precludes ar-riya and assists in ikhlaas:

“Allaah said: ‘Every deed of the son of Adam is for him except fasting; it is for Me and I shall reward for it…’” ( Al-Bukharee (1761) and Muslim (1946))

Allaah didn’t say “prayer is Mine”, or “Hajj is Mine”, or “charity is Mine”. Why did He single out fasting? Al-Qurtubi said: Because showing off may enter into all good deeds, but no one can see when a person is fasting except Allaah, so Allaah connected it to Himself.

8. Ramadan trains us to have good character and be truthful:

The Prophet (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam) said:

“Whoever does not give up false speech and acting upon it and ignorant behaviour, Allaah has no need of his giving up his food and drink”. (Sahih Al-Bukharee,1903)

So if a person refrains from disobeying Allaah or gives up sinfulness, then this is true fasting. Meaning, your body needs to fast with you too along with hunger and thirst.

9. A sense of Unity:

All the Muslims participate in this act of worship. All of us are fasting and breaking the fast at the same time. We as a single ummah gather upon a single act of worship directing towards a single purpose.

10. Ramadan is an opportunity to learn discipline in food and drink:

One of the benefits of fasting is good health. This is something we should seek because with good health, we can worship Allaah better and do extra good deeds which we might not be able to do if we did not have it. The Prophet (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam) said:

“A strong believer is better and is more lovable to Allaah than a weak believer, and there is good in everyone…” (Sahih Muslim 2664)

11. Two moments of Joy:

The Prophet (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam) said:

“The fasting person will have two moments of joy: one when he breaks his fast, and the other when he meets his Lord; then he will be pleased because of his fasting.” (al-Bukharee, 1771)

Source : Idealmuslimah (Edited)

Importance of Zakah

Zakah (alms) is one of the five pillars of Islam. Its importance can be realised from the fact that in 82 verses of the Qur'an Zakah is associated with prayer (Salah), such as:

Establish regular prayer and give Zakah; and obey Allah and His messenger.
Quran (33:33)

If social justice and compassion to fellow humans who are disadvantaged is one of the central themes in the message of Allah to humanity, then it is no wonder that Zakah, like prayer and fasting, was also enjoined upon the people of the past messengers:


And We made them (descendants of Abraham) leaders, guiding by Our command, and We sent them inspiration to do good deeds, to establish regular Prayers and to practise Zakah; and they constantly served Us.
Quran (21:73)

The Benefits of giving Zakah

1.It purifies your wealth as Allah Ta’ala says in the Qur'an:

Take alms from their wealth in order to purify them and sanctify them with it and pray for them.
Quran (9:103)

2. It keeps one away from sin and saves the giver from the moral ill arising from the love and greed of wealth.

3. Through Zakah, the poor are cared for, these include widows, orphans, the disabled, the needy and the destitute.

Zakah is the right of the poor. Zakah is not considered a favour that is given to the poor by the rich. It is the right of the poor on the wealth of the rich. Allah says:
..(In their) wealth there is a known share for the beggars and the destitute.
Quran (70:24-25)

Zakah, therefore, is unlike charity that is given to the needy voluntarily. Withholding Zakah is considered depriving the poor of their due share. Thus one who pays Zakah actually "purifies" his wealth by separating from it the portion that belongs to the poor.

What our beloved Messenger of Allah said on Zakah:

1. "Zakaat is a (great and strong) bridge of Islam".

2."If a man pays the Zakaat due on his property, it causes its evil influence to vanish".

3. "Protect your possessions by payment of Zakaat, treat your patients by giving Sadaqah and face the waves of affliction with supplications and crying unto Allah in humility".

Alqamah Radhiallaho anho says that when our group of people visited Rasulullah Sallallaho alaihe wasallam he said to them, "Verily you can make your Islam perfect by your payment of the Zakaat due on your property".

Rasulullah Sallallaho alaihe wasallam said, "he who observes three things will taste the sweetness of Imaan (faith): One who worships Allah alone and believes (from his heart) that there is no one to be worshipped but Allah and one who pays the Zakaat on his property, willingly, every year. In Zakaat on the animals, one should not give an aged animal or one suffering from itch or any other ailment, or an inferior one, but should give animals of average quality. Allah Ta'ala does not demand from you the best of your animals, nor does He command you to give animals of the worst quality".

Do I have to give Zakat?

Zakah is obligatory on one who has wealth that reaches or exceeds a certain level called the nisab. Unlike tax, however, Zakah is an act of worship for which one receives reward from Allah. Ignoring to pay Zakah, on the other hand, is a major sin. According to the scholars, anyone who does not pay Zakah by denying its obligation is considered a disbeliever.

How much do I have to give?

Zakah is paid anually. If you are in possession of money, gold, silver, stocks or shares that amount to more than the value of 85 grams of gold or 595 grams of Silver called nisab (at current market rates) then you are obliged to pay Zakah. What amounts are owed by you should be deducted from the capital amount before Zakah is calculated.

The rate of Zakah is 2.5% per annum

For details and rules pertaining to Zakah please contact your local Ulama (Islamic Scholars)

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Source: www.eislam.co.za