Thursday, 7 January 2010
Allaah[swt] is Beautiful and Loves Beauty
Imaam Ibn Al-Qayyim Al-Jawziyyah [rahimahullaah ]
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From ’Abdullaah Ibn Mas’ood radiallaahu ’anhu who said that the Prophet sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam said, “No one will enter Paradise who has an atom’s weight of pride in his heart.” A man said, “What if a man likes his clothes to look good and his shoes to look good?” He said, “Allaah is beautiful and loves beauty. Pride means denying the truth and looking down on people.”
[Muslim (no. 131)]
Ibnu-Qayyim (d.751H) [rahimahullaah] said, commenting upon this hadeeth:
‘‘The phrase ‘Allaah is beautiful and loves beauty,’ includes the beautiful clothing which was asked about in the same hadeeth. It is included by way of generalization, meaning that beauty in all things is what is meant here. In Saheeh Muslim, it says: “Allaah is good and only accepts that which is good.”
[Muslim (no. 1686)]
In Sunan At-Tirmidhee it says: “Allaah loves to see the effects of His blessing on His slave.’’
[Tirmidhee (no. 2963), who said it was hasan saheeh]
It was reported that Abul-Ahwas al-Jashamee said: The Messenger Muhammad[saw] saw me wearing old, tattered clothes, and asked me, “Do you have any wealth?” I said, “Yes.” He said, “What kind of wealth?” I said, “All that Allaah has given me of camels and sheep.” He said, “Then show the generous blessings that He has given you.”
[Ahmad (no. 15323),Tirmidhee (no. 1929) and Nisaa‘ee (no. 5128)]
Allaah[swt]loves the effects of His blessings to His slave to be made manifest, for this is part of the beauty that He loves, and that is part of the gratitude for His blessings which forms an inner beauty (beauty of character).
Allaah[swt] loves to see the external beauty of His slaves which reflects His blessings on them, and the inner beauty of their gratitude to Him for those blessings. Because He loves beauty,
He sends down on His slaves clothes and adornments with which they may make their outward appearance beautiful and He gives them taqwaa which makes their inner characters beautiful.
Allaah[swt] says:
“O Children of Adam! We have bestowed raiment upon you to cover yourselves (screen your private parts, etc.) and as an adornment, and the raiment of righteousness, that is better.”
[EMQ - Al-A’raaf (7:26]
And He[swt] says, speaking of the people of Paradise:
“…and He gave them Nadrataan (a light of beauty) and joy. And their recompense shall be Paradise and silken garments, because they were patient.”
[EMQ - Al-Insaan (76:11-12]
Their faces will be made beautiful with the nadrah (light of beauty), their innermost being with joy and their bodies with silken garments. Just as Allaah[swt] loves beauty in words, deeds, garments and outward appearance, so He hates ugliness in words, deeds, garments and outward appearance.
He[swt] hates ugliness and its people, and loves beauty and its people. But two groups are misguided with regard to this issue: a group who say that everything that He has created is beautiful, so He[swt] loves all that He has created and we should love all that He has created and not hate anything.
They say: whoever realizes that all that exists comes from Him will see that it is beautiful … these people have no sense of jealousy for the sake of Allaah[swt] or hatred and enmity for the sake of Allaah, or denouncing what is evil (munkar), or jihaad (struggle) for the sake of Allaah, or adhering His limits.
They regard the beauty of images, male or female, as being part of the beauty that Allaah[swt] loves, and seek to worship Allaah through immoral acts. Some of them may even go so far as to claim that the One Whom they worship is manifested or incarnated in those images.
The second group, on the other hand, say that Allaah condemns the beauty of images, forms and outward appearances.
Allaah says about the munaafiqoon (hypocrites):
“And when you look at them, their bodies please you…”
[EMQ - Al-Munaafiqoon:(63:4]
“And how many a generation have We destroyed before them. Who were better in wealth, goods and outward appearance?”
[EMQ - Maryam: (19:54]
In Saheeh Muslim it is reported that the Messenger Muhammad[saw] said:
“Allaah does not look at your outward appearance and your wealth, rather He looks at your hearts and deeds.”
[Muslim (no. 1356)]
According to another hadeeth: “Shabbiness is part of faith.”
[Ibn Maajah (no. 4108), Aboo Dawood (no. 3630)]
Allaah[swt] condemns those who are extravagant, which applies to extravagance in clothing as well as in food and drink.
In order to settle this dispute, we may say that beauty in clothing and outward appearance is of three types, one of which is commendable, one is blameworthy and one of which is neither.
The kind of beauty which is to be commended is that which is done for the sake of Allaah, to help one to obey Allaah[swt] and fulfill His commands, such as when the Messenger Muhammad[saw] made himself look beautiful (i.e. handsome) when meeting the delegations that came to him.
This is like wearing armour or battle-dress when fighting, or wearing silk and showing off (in front of the enemy). This is commendable because it is done to make the word of Allaah[swt] supreme and to support His religion and annoy His enemies.
The blameworthy kind of beauty is that which is done for the sake of this world, for reasons of power, false pride and showing off, or to fulfill some (selfish) desires. This also includes cases where beauty is an end in itself for a person and is all he cares about.
Many people have no other concern in life. As for the kind of beauty which is neither commendable nor blameworthy, it is that which has nothing to do with either of the two purposes mentioned above (i.e., it is neither for the sake of Allaah[swt] nor for the sake of worldly purposes).
The hadeeth under discussion refers to two important principles, knowledge and behaviour.
Allaah[swt] is to be acknowledged for beauty that bears no resemblance to anything else, and He is to be worshipped by means of the beauty which He loves in words, deeds and attitudes.
He[swt] loves His slaves to beautify their tongues with the truth, to beautify their hearts with sincere devotion (ikhlaas), love, repentance and trust in Him, to beautify their faculties with obedience, and to beautify their bodies by showing His blessings upon them in their clothing and by keeping them pure and free of any filth, dirt or impurity, by removing the hairs which should be removed, by circumcision, and by clipping the nails.
Thus they recognize Allaah[swt] through these qualities of beauty and seek to draw close to Him through beautiful words, deeds and attitudes. They acknowledge Him for the beauty which is His attribute and they worship Him[swt] through the beauty which He has prescribed and His religion.
The hadeeth combines these two principles of knowledge and behaviour.’’
[Al-Fawaa‘id (1/185)]
Al-Istighfaar (Seeking Repentance)
Shaykh ul-Islaam Ibn Taymiyah [rahimahullaah ]
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The Messenger of Allah, sallallahu `alaihi wa sallam, said:
Oh my 'ilãh You are my Lord, there is no 'ilãh but You. You created me, and I am your bondservant, and I will stick to my covenant and promise [of faith and sincere obedience] to You, as to my ability. I seek refuge in You from the evil of what I have done, I acknowledge, to You, your bounties upon me, and I acknowledge, to You, my sin. Thus forgive me, for none forgives sins except You.
Whoever says this as he enters upon evening, then, dies that night, he would enter Paradise; and if one says this as he enters upon morning, then, dies that day, he would enter Paradise."[Al-Bukhari]
The servant is always in the blessings of Allah, which necessitate thankfulness, and in sinfulness, which requires seeking forgiveness. Both of these matters are required and essential for the servant at all times, as the servant does not cease to alternate between Allaah's (various) favors and blessings, and does not cease to be in need of repentance and seeking forgiveness.
This is why the Master of the Children of Adam, and the Leader of the Pious, Muhammad, sallallahu `alaihi wa sallam sought forgiveness in all circumstances. He said in an authentic hadeeth reported by al-Bukhari:
"O people, repent to your Lord, for verily I seek forgiveness from Allah and repent to him more than seventy times in a day."It is reported in Saheeh Muslim that The Messenger Muhammad[saw] said:
"I seek forgiveness one hundred times in a day."
[Muslim]
`Abdullah ibn `Umar said: We counted in a single sitting the Messenger of Allah, sallallahu `alaihi wa sallam, saying one hundred times:
[Ahmad, Abu Dawood, Ibn Maajah]
This is why seeking forgiveness was legislated at the end of actions. Allah the Exalted said:
"Those who seek forgiveness before dawn (at late night)."
[EMQ - Al-`Imraan (3):17]
Some of them said: "Give life to your nights by performing Prayer, and when the time of late night comes, concern yourself with seeking forgiveness."
It is related in the Saheeh that the Prophet, sallallahu `alaihi wa sallam, when he finished his Prayer, he would seek forgiveness three times and say:
[O' my 'ilãh You are 'As-Salãm [One free from flaws], and from You comes Salãm [peace, or safety], blessed are Thee O' haver of glory and kindness.]
[Muslim]
Allah says:
"And seek forgiveness of Allah. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful."
[EMQ - Al-Muzammil (73):20]
(Even) After the Prophet conveyed the Message, fought in the path of Allah with true jihad, and performed what Allah ordered more than anyone else, Allah commanded his Prophet (to perform istighfar), as He the Exalted said:"When the victory of Allah has come and the conquest, and you see the people entering into the religion of Allah in multitudes, then exalt [Him] with praise of your Lord and ask forgiveness of Him. Indeed, He is ever Accepting of repentance."
[EMQ - An-Nasr (110):1-3]
This is why the Deen is established with Tawheed and Istighfaar, as Allah the Exalted said:
"Alif Lam Ra. [This is] a Book whose verses are perfected an then presented in detail from [one who is] Wise and Acquainted. [Through a messenger, saying], "Do not worship except Allah. Indeed, I am to you from Him a warner and a bringer of good tidings," and [saying], "Seek forgiveness of your Lord and repent to Him, [and] He will let you enjoy a good provision."
[EMQ - Hood(11):1-3]
And Allah says:
"So take a straight course to Him and seek His forgiveness."
[EMQ - Fussilat (41):6].
And He says:
"So know [O Muhammad], that there is no deity except Allah and ask forgiveness for your sin and for the believing men and believing women."
[EMQ - Muhammad (47):19]
This is why it was it came in a narration:
"The Shaytan said: People are destroyed with sins, and they destroy me with 'Laa ilaha ill Allah' and seeking forgiveness."
[Reported by Ibn Abi Asim and Abu Ya`la, but its chain is a fabrication].
Yoonus, `alayhis salam, said:
"There is no deity except You; exalted are You. Indeed, I have been of the wrongdoers."
[EMQ - Al-Anbiyaa' (21):87]
The Prophet, sallallahu `alaihi wa sallam, when he would ride his mount, he would praise Allah, then say Allahu Akbar three times, then say:
[I testify that there is no 'ilah except You, Glorified are You, I have transgressed upon myself, so forgive me] [Abu Dawood and at-Tirmidhi, who said it is hasan saheeh]
Expiation of a gathering with which the gathering is completed is (the supplication):
[Glorified are You O' my 'ilãh and I am in Your praise, I testify that there is no 'ilah except You, I ask Your forgiveness and repent unto You.] [Abu Dawood and At-Tirmidhee, who said it is hasan saheeh]
Taken from his Majmoo al-Fataawaa 10/88-90
Monday, 4 January 2010
The Deaf and The Dumb
The Deaf and The Dumb
Amongst the kuffar and the Muslims
Allah(swt) says In the Qur’an:
“The lightning all but snatches away their sight; every time the light (Helps) them, they walk therein, and when the darkness grows on them, they stand still. And if Allah willed, He could take away their faculty of hearing and seeing; for Allah hath power over all things.”
[EMQ - Al - Baqarah - 2:20]
Many Muslims today follow everything except Islam. The issue of them being Muslim does not affect them. Following whatever pleases them and staying away from whatever displeases them. Letting their own desires and inclination run their life and pursuing nothing except self-interest and benefit, with no fear of Allah and complete disregard for Islam.
This lifestyle where Muslims set their own criteria for life is absolutely prohibited. As they put themselves before Allah and His commands, ending they obey and worship themselves.
Allah condemns these kinds of people in the Qur’an:
“Have you seen him who takes his own lust (vain desires) as Ilâh (god), and Allah knowing (him as such), left him astray, and sealed his hearing and his heart, and put a cover on his sight. Who then will guide him after Allah? Will you not then remember?”
[EMQ - Al -Jaathiya - 45:23]
As we can see today that many muslims are too interested in the dunya, just like the kuffar who do not even fear the punishment that awaits them. People have become so oblivious to why they have been created and what the purpose is that they have been created for.
As Allah(swt) says:
“ I have not created man and jinn but only to worship Me alone”
[EMQ Adh -Dhariyyah - 51:56]
The disbelievers are lost already in their false claims and their rejection in the truth I.e Islam and the blasphemous claims that they make… But what can we say about those whom claim to be Muslim, who say they worship Allah(swt) exclusively? Indeed we see that many of these people who say this are infact in darkness from the truth. Because they follow their own vain, selfish desires, they speak out of their own hawaa, and hence follow in the footsteps of they shaytaan.
There are many different sects today, and within these sects are many daees, scholars, ulama who are deviant who are misguided, they misguide people by using week, fabricated hadith, and innovating in the deen. Making up innovative rituals i.e. - miladun nabi etc.. some even celebrate Christmas, and obey man made laws , taking riba because they assume they need to obey the law of the land and they say it is allowed in this ‘Modern day and age’.
By Him in Whose hand is my soul, my Ummah will split into 73 sects: one will enter Paradise and 72 will enter Hell.' Someone asked, 'O Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him), who will they be?' He replied, 'The main body of the Muslims (al-Jama'ah).
And we know that the Majority of the people are following the shaytaan:
Music, Voting, riba, freemixing etc….
The majority are those who seek the pleasure of the people, they seek the reward of the dunya and the fame, and power from the people as we see that some of the ‘Muslims’ they assume that by doing something kufr like voting they can win the hearts of the majority and the majority are the kuffar! They follow the ways of the disbelievers and desire their way of life.
"And if you obey the majority who are on earth, they will lead you far astray from the path of Allah. They follow nothing but conjectures and they are nothing but liars."
[EMQ Al-Anaam - 6: 116]
This verse is very clear and explicit for us all to see. Allah (swt) informs us that the majority of people follow nothing but conjectures (doubt) and they do nothing but lie. This verse annihilates any kind of idea or concept which involves seeking the permission, satisfaction and pleasure of the majority of people on earth. Therefore, those who say that we do not represent the majority of people and that we are a minority, we would like to say to them, indeed! The majority are misguided and the majority will enter the Fire.
The truth is not with the majority and this is something which is very well known to those who are on guidance from Allah (swt). We know the truth from the evidence (i.e. the divine texts – the Qur’an and Sunnah) and not by the sayings of the majority. In fact, the Shaytaan (devil) made a promise to Allah (swt) that he will mislead the majority of his slaves and only a minority of believers who are sincere will be able to combat every evil whispering he has to offer.
As Allah mentioned in the Qur’an:
“(Iblis) said: "Then, by Your power, I will put them all in the wrong,- Except Your servants amongst them, sincere and purified (by Your Grace)."
[EMQ - Sa'd - 38: 82 and 83]
In these verses Allah(swt) commands us to obey and respond to orders and forbid resembling the Disbelievers and Hypocrites who do not respond to Allah and His Messenger
(saw)
Allah (swt) says:
(20) "Oh you who believe! Obey Allah and His Messenger, and turn not away from him - the Messenger Muhammad, (saw) while you are hearing."
(21) "And be not like those who say: We have heard but they hear not."
(22) "Verily! The worst of moving living creatures in the Sight of Allah are the deaf and the dumb, those who understand not - the disbelievers."
(23) "Had Allah known of any good in them, He would indeed have made them listen, even if He had made them listen, they would but have turned away, averse to the truth."
(24). "Oh ye who believe! give your response to Allah and His Messenger, when He calls you to that which will give you life; and know that Allah cometh in between a man and his heart, and that it is He to Whom ye shall (all) be gathered".
[EMQ - Al- Anfaal - 20-24]
The Disbelievers refused to listen to Allah’s Words as Allah (swt) says in Surah Fussilat:
"And those who disbelieve say: Listen not to this Quran, and make noise in the midst of its recitation that you may overcome."
[EMQ - Fussilat - 41:26]
The Jews also refused to listen to Allah's Words as Allah (swt) says in Surah Al-Baqarah:
They said: "We have heard and disobeyed."
[EMQ - Al-Baqarah - 2:93]
The Hypocrites also refused by not listening to Allah's Words. This is reflected in Surah Al-Anfal:(where the hypocrites say
"We have heard but they hear not."
[EMQ - Al-Anfaal - 8:21]
In this verse it appears as if they heard and responded, but in reality they did not, since they listened with their ears but not respond with their hearts. Allah Almighty says in the Qur’an in Surah Al-Anfal: that these types of humans are the worst of creatures.
"Verily! The worst of moving living creatures in the Sight of Allah are the deaf and the dumb, those who understand not - the disbelievers."
[EMQ - Al-Anfaal - 8:22]
In this verse Allah Almighty calls the person who do not respond to the truth as deaf, and the person who do not understand and utter the truth as dumb and refers to them as people who do not understand because they do not have sound minds that think about the outcome of their actions. Their minds are limited to thoughts about this world and its short-term pleasures. They are like cattle, who only think about what it eats, and does not think about the future and prepare for another life. They are not only like cattle but even worse, because cattle obey Allah in reasons of its creation.
Allah (swt) says in [EMQ - Al-Furqaan - 25:44]
"They are only like cattle - nay, they are even further astray from the Path - even worse than cattle."
It is required of every Muslim that he listens to the Words of Allah (swt) when it is recited and to the hadeeth of the Prophet,(saw) when it is narrated. The Muslim must understand when he listens and reflect upon what the orders require of him or her. He or she must then respond by carrying out the orders, otherwise it will be an argument against him or her on the Day of Judgment.
As Allah(swt) says in Surah Al-Mu'minoon: where it states:
"Were not My Verses recited to you, and then you used to deny them?"
[EMQ - Al-Muminoon - 23:105]
The Almighty Allah (swt) also says in Surah Az-Zumar:
"Yes! Verily, there came to you My Ayât - the proofs, the evidences, the verses, the signs etc., and you denied them, and were proud and were among the disbelievers."
[EMQ - Az-Zumar - 39:59]
How many Verses and hadeeth do we read or listen to without obeying their orders. The Prophet(saw) said:
"The Quran will either be a witness for you, or against you on the Day of Judgment".
(Muslim)
Let us see how much we actively respond to Allah's calls. Allah calls upon us with His sayings, "O People! O Children of Adam! O you who believe! O Servants of Allah!"
Some predecessors said, "If you hear Allah calling, 'O you who believe!', then you should pay attention, because it is either a good thing you are ordered to carry out or a bad thing you are to be cautious of.
Allah Almighty explains that His commands give life to the hearts resulting in happiness in this world and in the Hereafter. it states:
"Oh you who believe! Answer Allah by obeying Him and His Messenger, Muhammad (saw), when he calls you to that which will give you life... "
[EMQ - Al-Anfal - 8:24)]
Now, regarding the phrase in the verse just mentioned, "that which will give you life...", although there are other interpretations, but some commentators interpret it as Jihad, because it gives honour after humiliation and power after weakness.
Allah Almighty then threatens those people who do not respond to His call by saying, "...And know that Allah comes in between a person and his heart, that is He prevents an evil person to decide anything...."
He who does not respond to Allah and His Prophet, will be punished by dismissing his heart from the truth as is stated in Surah Al-An‘am: where Allah (swt) says:
"And We shall turn their hearts and their eyes away from guidance, as they refused to believe therein for the first trespass to wander blindly."
[EMQ - Al- Anaam - 6:110]
In Surah As-Saaf: Allah (swt) also says:
"Our Rabb! Make us not a trail for the disbelievers, and forgive us, Our Rabb! Verily, You, only You are the All Mighty, the All-Wise."
[EMQ - As-Saff - 61:5]
Beware of refusing the orders of Allah and His Messenger Muhammad (saw), because Allah can come in between a person and his heart and turn the heart as He wishes.
That is why the Prophet( saw), often used to say:
"O Allah! O Controller of the hearts! Keep my Heart firm in Your religion, keep it content with Your worship."
He (saw) also said,
"Yes, verily the hearts are between two Fingers from the Fingers of Allah and He turns them as He likes".
(Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah)
Allah says:
"Those who avoid At-Taaghout - the false deities by not worshipping them and turn to Allah in repentance, for them are glad tidings: so announce the good news to My slaves."
"Those who listen to the word - the good advice - La ilaaha ill Allah - None has the right to be worshipped but Allah, and follow the best thereof, by worshipping Allah alone, repenting to Him and avoiding Taaghoot, those are the ones whom Allah has guided and those are men of understanding."
[EMQ - Az-Zumar - 39:17-18]
It is required of us is to listen and follow, and the person who does not listen today would regret tomorrow.
As the disbelievers will say:
"Had we but listened or used our intelligence, we would not have been among the dwellers of the Blazing Fire".
[EMQ - Al-Mulk - 67:10]
Therefore we must attend Khutbahs, Islamic Lectures, Mosques and Study Circles. It is unfortunate that many of us do not listen, and if they listen they do not understand. If the earth does not get any rain water, it will become dry and barren. Likewise, if the hearts do not receive any revelation or remembrance of Allah, then it will also become dry and barren.
Whoever listens to Allah's Call should respond.
Allah(swt) warns us In the Qur’an:
"And whosoever does not respond to Allah's Caller, he can not escape on earth, and there will be no Auliyaa - protectors, for him besides Allah from His punishment. Those are in manifest error."
[EMQ - Al-Ahqaaf - 46:32]
Some people refuse totally to respond to Allah's Call. They are the Disbelievers and the Hypocrites, who say, We heard and we disobeyed. Other people only respond if it conforms with their desire and lust, and reject everything else. These people worship their lust and desire.
As Allah (swt) says in [EMQ - Al-Qasas - 28:50]
"But if they answer you not - that is they do not believe in your doctrine of Islamic Monotheism, nor follow you, then know that they only follow their own lusts. And who is more astray than one who follows his own lusts, without guidance from Allah? Verily! Allah guides not the people who are wrong-doers and disobedient to Allah - the Dhaalimoon."
This is similar to the people who believe in some parts of the Book and reject the other parts. If they are invited to attend Friday Prayers, they do not respond, and if they are asked to leave usury/interest and forbidden transactions, they do not even give it a thought.
When they are asked to enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong, then they turn their backs and walk the other way, even though they call themselves Muslims. These people, if and when they do escape disbelief, they surely do not escape hypocrisy and leads a corrupt and immoral life. Allah's Call, reaches the believers in many ways and means, like reciting Qur'an and the Sunnah, making supplications, enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong etc.
Some people prefer amusement centres to mosques, and hence listen to music and songs, rather than listening to the Words of the Merciful. They become like those described in [EMQ - Luqmaan - 31:6-7] where Allah (swt) says:
"And of mankind is he who purchases idle talks - such as music and singing etc., to mislead men from the Path of Allah without knowledge, and takes it by way of mockery. For such there will be a humiliating torment in the Hell-Fire. And when Our Verses are recited to such a one, he turns away in pride, as if he heard them not, as if there were deafness in his ear. So announce to him a painful torment."
Know that there are hindrances that will prevent the servant from responding to Allah (swt) and His Messenger Muhammad (saw). These are usually in the form of:
Pride and arrogance - in accepting the truth, like what happened to Iblis when Allah ordered him to bow to Adam (as) and thus became conceited.
In a Hadeeth by Ibn Masood, the Messenger Muhammad (saw) said:
"He who has in his heart the weight of a mustard seed of pride shall not enter Paradise".
Muslim (no. 131)
Envy and jealousy - like what happened to the Jews, when the Messenger Muhammad (saw) called them to believe in him, they disbelieved with envy even though they knew the truth.
Being fanatical about a certain opinion or a certain School of Thought, and following the traditions of their fathers, like what happened to the Jews and the Mushrikeen.
In Surah Al-Baqarah: Allah (swt) says:
"And when it is said to them - the Jews, believe in what Allah has sent down. They say, We believe in what was sent down to us. And they disbelieve in that which came after it, while it is the Truth what is with them."
[EMQ - Al-Baqarah - 2:91]
Also in Surah Al-Baqarah: Allah (swt) says:
"When it is said to them: Follow what Allah has sent down. They say: Nay! We shall follow what we found our fathers following. Would they do that! Even though their fathers did not understand anything nor were they guided?"
[EMQ - Al -Baqarah - 2:170]
Following lusts and desires.
In Surah Al-Qasas: Allah (swt) says:
"But if they answer you not - that is they do not believe in your doctrine of Islamic Monotheism, nor follow you, then know that they only follow their own lusts. And who is more astray than one who follows his own lusts, without guidance from Allah? Verily! Allah guides not the people who are wrong-doers and disobedient to Allah - the Dhaalimoon."
[EMQ - Al-Qasas - 28:50]
In a Hadeeth, the Messenger Muhammad (saw) said,
"No one of you will become a believer unless his desires agrees with what was revealed to me".
Fear from people and not being patient when being hurt by people.
Allah talks about the disbelievers of the Quraish. In Surah Al-Qasas:
Allah (swt) says:
"And they say: If we follow the guidance with you, we would be snatched away from our land. By making this statement they testified that what the Messenger Muhammad (saw) brought was guidance, and that they were astray and erred, but they did not follow him because they feared their security and being hurt by people. "
[EMQ - Al-Qasas - 28:57]
This is a corrupt picture and a deteriorated natural instinct of perceiving what is right and wrong since security and assurance can only be gained from following guidance and fear only comes from following a the wrong path.
What the disbelievers said before is similar to what many contemporary people say, such as, We know that Islam is the true religion, but what prevents us from following it and being govern by it, is our fear of being attacked by other Non-Muslim countries and calling us ignorant fundamentalists. They forgot that this only increases their fear and makes them weaker in the eyes of the enemies.
This is stated in Surah Al-Imraan:
"It is only the Evil One that suggests to you the fear of his votaries: Be ye not afraid of them, but fear Me, if ye have Faith."
[EMQ - Al-Imraan - 3:175]
The Messenger Muhammad (saw) said:
"Whoever seeks Allah's pleasure at the cost of the majorities' displeasure, will win the pleasure of Allah, and Allah will cause men to be please with him. And whoever seeks to please the majority at the cost of Allah's displeasure, will win the displeasure of Allah, and Allah will cause men to be displeased with him."
(Musnad al-Imaam Ahmad)
Amongst the kuffar and the Muslims
Allah(swt) says In the Qur’an:
“The lightning all but snatches away their sight; every time the light (Helps) them, they walk therein, and when the darkness grows on them, they stand still. And if Allah willed, He could take away their faculty of hearing and seeing; for Allah hath power over all things.”
[EMQ - Al - Baqarah - 2:20]
Many Muslims today follow everything except Islam. The issue of them being Muslim does not affect them. Following whatever pleases them and staying away from whatever displeases them. Letting their own desires and inclination run their life and pursuing nothing except self-interest and benefit, with no fear of Allah and complete disregard for Islam.
This lifestyle where Muslims set their own criteria for life is absolutely prohibited. As they put themselves before Allah and His commands, ending they obey and worship themselves.
Allah condemns these kinds of people in the Qur’an:
“Have you seen him who takes his own lust (vain desires) as Ilâh (god), and Allah knowing (him as such), left him astray, and sealed his hearing and his heart, and put a cover on his sight. Who then will guide him after Allah? Will you not then remember?”
[EMQ - Al -Jaathiya - 45:23]
As we can see today that many muslims are too interested in the dunya, just like the kuffar who do not even fear the punishment that awaits them. People have become so oblivious to why they have been created and what the purpose is that they have been created for.
As Allah(swt) says:
“ I have not created man and jinn but only to worship Me alone”
[EMQ Adh -Dhariyyah - 51:56]
The disbelievers are lost already in their false claims and their rejection in the truth I.e Islam and the blasphemous claims that they make… But what can we say about those whom claim to be Muslim, who say they worship Allah(swt) exclusively? Indeed we see that many of these people who say this are infact in darkness from the truth. Because they follow their own vain, selfish desires, they speak out of their own hawaa, and hence follow in the footsteps of they shaytaan.
There are many different sects today, and within these sects are many daees, scholars, ulama who are deviant who are misguided, they misguide people by using week, fabricated hadith, and innovating in the deen. Making up innovative rituals i.e. - miladun nabi etc.. some even celebrate Christmas, and obey man made laws , taking riba because they assume they need to obey the law of the land and they say it is allowed in this ‘Modern day and age’.
By Him in Whose hand is my soul, my Ummah will split into 73 sects: one will enter Paradise and 72 will enter Hell.' Someone asked, 'O Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him), who will they be?' He replied, 'The main body of the Muslims (al-Jama'ah).
And we know that the Majority of the people are following the shaytaan:
Music, Voting, riba, freemixing etc….
The majority are those who seek the pleasure of the people, they seek the reward of the dunya and the fame, and power from the people as we see that some of the ‘Muslims’ they assume that by doing something kufr like voting they can win the hearts of the majority and the majority are the kuffar! They follow the ways of the disbelievers and desire their way of life.
"And if you obey the majority who are on earth, they will lead you far astray from the path of Allah. They follow nothing but conjectures and they are nothing but liars."
[EMQ Al-Anaam - 6: 116]
This verse is very clear and explicit for us all to see. Allah (swt) informs us that the majority of people follow nothing but conjectures (doubt) and they do nothing but lie. This verse annihilates any kind of idea or concept which involves seeking the permission, satisfaction and pleasure of the majority of people on earth. Therefore, those who say that we do not represent the majority of people and that we are a minority, we would like to say to them, indeed! The majority are misguided and the majority will enter the Fire.
The truth is not with the majority and this is something which is very well known to those who are on guidance from Allah (swt). We know the truth from the evidence (i.e. the divine texts – the Qur’an and Sunnah) and not by the sayings of the majority. In fact, the Shaytaan (devil) made a promise to Allah (swt) that he will mislead the majority of his slaves and only a minority of believers who are sincere will be able to combat every evil whispering he has to offer.
As Allah mentioned in the Qur’an:
“(Iblis) said: "Then, by Your power, I will put them all in the wrong,- Except Your servants amongst them, sincere and purified (by Your Grace)."
[EMQ - Sa'd - 38: 82 and 83]
In these verses Allah(swt) commands us to obey and respond to orders and forbid resembling the Disbelievers and Hypocrites who do not respond to Allah and His Messenger
(saw)
Allah (swt) says:
(20) "Oh you who believe! Obey Allah and His Messenger, and turn not away from him - the Messenger Muhammad, (saw) while you are hearing."
(21) "And be not like those who say: We have heard but they hear not."
(22) "Verily! The worst of moving living creatures in the Sight of Allah are the deaf and the dumb, those who understand not - the disbelievers."
(23) "Had Allah known of any good in them, He would indeed have made them listen, even if He had made them listen, they would but have turned away, averse to the truth."
(24). "Oh ye who believe! give your response to Allah and His Messenger, when He calls you to that which will give you life; and know that Allah cometh in between a man and his heart, and that it is He to Whom ye shall (all) be gathered".
[EMQ - Al- Anfaal - 20-24]
The Disbelievers refused to listen to Allah’s Words as Allah (swt) says in Surah Fussilat:
"And those who disbelieve say: Listen not to this Quran, and make noise in the midst of its recitation that you may overcome."
[EMQ - Fussilat - 41:26]
The Jews also refused to listen to Allah's Words as Allah (swt) says in Surah Al-Baqarah:
They said: "We have heard and disobeyed."
[EMQ - Al-Baqarah - 2:93]
The Hypocrites also refused by not listening to Allah's Words. This is reflected in Surah Al-Anfal:(where the hypocrites say
"We have heard but they hear not."
[EMQ - Al-Anfaal - 8:21]
In this verse it appears as if they heard and responded, but in reality they did not, since they listened with their ears but not respond with their hearts. Allah Almighty says in the Qur’an in Surah Al-Anfal: that these types of humans are the worst of creatures.
"Verily! The worst of moving living creatures in the Sight of Allah are the deaf and the dumb, those who understand not - the disbelievers."
[EMQ - Al-Anfaal - 8:22]
In this verse Allah Almighty calls the person who do not respond to the truth as deaf, and the person who do not understand and utter the truth as dumb and refers to them as people who do not understand because they do not have sound minds that think about the outcome of their actions. Their minds are limited to thoughts about this world and its short-term pleasures. They are like cattle, who only think about what it eats, and does not think about the future and prepare for another life. They are not only like cattle but even worse, because cattle obey Allah in reasons of its creation.
Allah (swt) says in [EMQ - Al-Furqaan - 25:44]
"They are only like cattle - nay, they are even further astray from the Path - even worse than cattle."
It is required of every Muslim that he listens to the Words of Allah (swt) when it is recited and to the hadeeth of the Prophet,(saw) when it is narrated. The Muslim must understand when he listens and reflect upon what the orders require of him or her. He or she must then respond by carrying out the orders, otherwise it will be an argument against him or her on the Day of Judgment.
As Allah(swt) says in Surah Al-Mu'minoon: where it states:
"Were not My Verses recited to you, and then you used to deny them?"
[EMQ - Al-Muminoon - 23:105]
The Almighty Allah (swt) also says in Surah Az-Zumar:
"Yes! Verily, there came to you My Ayât - the proofs, the evidences, the verses, the signs etc., and you denied them, and were proud and were among the disbelievers."
[EMQ - Az-Zumar - 39:59]
How many Verses and hadeeth do we read or listen to without obeying their orders. The Prophet(saw) said:
"The Quran will either be a witness for you, or against you on the Day of Judgment".
(Muslim)
Let us see how much we actively respond to Allah's calls. Allah calls upon us with His sayings, "O People! O Children of Adam! O you who believe! O Servants of Allah!"
Some predecessors said, "If you hear Allah calling, 'O you who believe!', then you should pay attention, because it is either a good thing you are ordered to carry out or a bad thing you are to be cautious of.
Allah Almighty explains that His commands give life to the hearts resulting in happiness in this world and in the Hereafter. it states:
"Oh you who believe! Answer Allah by obeying Him and His Messenger, Muhammad (saw), when he calls you to that which will give you life... "
[EMQ - Al-Anfal - 8:24)]
Now, regarding the phrase in the verse just mentioned, "that which will give you life...", although there are other interpretations, but some commentators interpret it as Jihad, because it gives honour after humiliation and power after weakness.
Allah Almighty then threatens those people who do not respond to His call by saying, "...And know that Allah comes in between a person and his heart, that is He prevents an evil person to decide anything...."
He who does not respond to Allah and His Prophet, will be punished by dismissing his heart from the truth as is stated in Surah Al-An‘am: where Allah (swt) says:
"And We shall turn their hearts and their eyes away from guidance, as they refused to believe therein for the first trespass to wander blindly."
[EMQ - Al- Anaam - 6:110]
In Surah As-Saaf: Allah (swt) also says:
"Our Rabb! Make us not a trail for the disbelievers, and forgive us, Our Rabb! Verily, You, only You are the All Mighty, the All-Wise."
[EMQ - As-Saff - 61:5]
Beware of refusing the orders of Allah and His Messenger Muhammad (saw), because Allah can come in between a person and his heart and turn the heart as He wishes.
That is why the Prophet( saw), often used to say:
"O Allah! O Controller of the hearts! Keep my Heart firm in Your religion, keep it content with Your worship."
He (saw) also said,
"Yes, verily the hearts are between two Fingers from the Fingers of Allah and He turns them as He likes".
(Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah)
Allah says:
"Those who avoid At-Taaghout - the false deities by not worshipping them and turn to Allah in repentance, for them are glad tidings: so announce the good news to My slaves."
"Those who listen to the word - the good advice - La ilaaha ill Allah - None has the right to be worshipped but Allah, and follow the best thereof, by worshipping Allah alone, repenting to Him and avoiding Taaghoot, those are the ones whom Allah has guided and those are men of understanding."
[EMQ - Az-Zumar - 39:17-18]
It is required of us is to listen and follow, and the person who does not listen today would regret tomorrow.
As the disbelievers will say:
"Had we but listened or used our intelligence, we would not have been among the dwellers of the Blazing Fire".
[EMQ - Al-Mulk - 67:10]
Therefore we must attend Khutbahs, Islamic Lectures, Mosques and Study Circles. It is unfortunate that many of us do not listen, and if they listen they do not understand. If the earth does not get any rain water, it will become dry and barren. Likewise, if the hearts do not receive any revelation or remembrance of Allah, then it will also become dry and barren.
Whoever listens to Allah's Call should respond.
Allah(swt) warns us In the Qur’an:
"And whosoever does not respond to Allah's Caller, he can not escape on earth, and there will be no Auliyaa - protectors, for him besides Allah from His punishment. Those are in manifest error."
[EMQ - Al-Ahqaaf - 46:32]
Some people refuse totally to respond to Allah's Call. They are the Disbelievers and the Hypocrites, who say, We heard and we disobeyed. Other people only respond if it conforms with their desire and lust, and reject everything else. These people worship their lust and desire.
As Allah (swt) says in [EMQ - Al-Qasas - 28:50]
"But if they answer you not - that is they do not believe in your doctrine of Islamic Monotheism, nor follow you, then know that they only follow their own lusts. And who is more astray than one who follows his own lusts, without guidance from Allah? Verily! Allah guides not the people who are wrong-doers and disobedient to Allah - the Dhaalimoon."
This is similar to the people who believe in some parts of the Book and reject the other parts. If they are invited to attend Friday Prayers, they do not respond, and if they are asked to leave usury/interest and forbidden transactions, they do not even give it a thought.
When they are asked to enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong, then they turn their backs and walk the other way, even though they call themselves Muslims. These people, if and when they do escape disbelief, they surely do not escape hypocrisy and leads a corrupt and immoral life. Allah's Call, reaches the believers in many ways and means, like reciting Qur'an and the Sunnah, making supplications, enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong etc.
Some people prefer amusement centres to mosques, and hence listen to music and songs, rather than listening to the Words of the Merciful. They become like those described in [EMQ - Luqmaan - 31:6-7] where Allah (swt) says:
"And of mankind is he who purchases idle talks - such as music and singing etc., to mislead men from the Path of Allah without knowledge, and takes it by way of mockery. For such there will be a humiliating torment in the Hell-Fire. And when Our Verses are recited to such a one, he turns away in pride, as if he heard them not, as if there were deafness in his ear. So announce to him a painful torment."
Know that there are hindrances that will prevent the servant from responding to Allah (swt) and His Messenger Muhammad (saw). These are usually in the form of:
Pride and arrogance - in accepting the truth, like what happened to Iblis when Allah ordered him to bow to Adam (as) and thus became conceited.
In a Hadeeth by Ibn Masood, the Messenger Muhammad (saw) said:
"He who has in his heart the weight of a mustard seed of pride shall not enter Paradise".
Muslim (no. 131)
Envy and jealousy - like what happened to the Jews, when the Messenger Muhammad (saw) called them to believe in him, they disbelieved with envy even though they knew the truth.
Being fanatical about a certain opinion or a certain School of Thought, and following the traditions of their fathers, like what happened to the Jews and the Mushrikeen.
In Surah Al-Baqarah: Allah (swt) says:
"And when it is said to them - the Jews, believe in what Allah has sent down. They say, We believe in what was sent down to us. And they disbelieve in that which came after it, while it is the Truth what is with them."
[EMQ - Al-Baqarah - 2:91]
Also in Surah Al-Baqarah: Allah (swt) says:
"When it is said to them: Follow what Allah has sent down. They say: Nay! We shall follow what we found our fathers following. Would they do that! Even though their fathers did not understand anything nor were they guided?"
[EMQ - Al -Baqarah - 2:170]
Following lusts and desires.
In Surah Al-Qasas: Allah (swt) says:
"But if they answer you not - that is they do not believe in your doctrine of Islamic Monotheism, nor follow you, then know that they only follow their own lusts. And who is more astray than one who follows his own lusts, without guidance from Allah? Verily! Allah guides not the people who are wrong-doers and disobedient to Allah - the Dhaalimoon."
[EMQ - Al-Qasas - 28:50]
In a Hadeeth, the Messenger Muhammad (saw) said,
"No one of you will become a believer unless his desires agrees with what was revealed to me".
Fear from people and not being patient when being hurt by people.
Allah talks about the disbelievers of the Quraish. In Surah Al-Qasas:
Allah (swt) says:
"And they say: If we follow the guidance with you, we would be snatched away from our land. By making this statement they testified that what the Messenger Muhammad (saw) brought was guidance, and that they were astray and erred, but they did not follow him because they feared their security and being hurt by people. "
[EMQ - Al-Qasas - 28:57]
This is a corrupt picture and a deteriorated natural instinct of perceiving what is right and wrong since security and assurance can only be gained from following guidance and fear only comes from following a the wrong path.
What the disbelievers said before is similar to what many contemporary people say, such as, We know that Islam is the true religion, but what prevents us from following it and being govern by it, is our fear of being attacked by other Non-Muslim countries and calling us ignorant fundamentalists. They forgot that this only increases their fear and makes them weaker in the eyes of the enemies.
This is stated in Surah Al-Imraan:
"It is only the Evil One that suggests to you the fear of his votaries: Be ye not afraid of them, but fear Me, if ye have Faith."
[EMQ - Al-Imraan - 3:175]
The Messenger Muhammad (saw) said:
"Whoever seeks Allah's pleasure at the cost of the majorities' displeasure, will win the pleasure of Allah, and Allah will cause men to be please with him. And whoever seeks to please the majority at the cost of Allah's displeasure, will win the displeasure of Allah, and Allah will cause men to be displeased with him."
(Musnad al-Imaam Ahmad)
Essense Of Taqwa
The Essence of Taqwa
Indeed Allah(swt) has honoured the Muslimah by commanding her to wear the khimar and Jilbab. This commandment from Allah(swt) is a protection for her and her honour.As Allah(swt) says:
"Oh Prophet! Tell your wives and daughters, and the believing women, that they should cast their outer garments over their persons (when abroad): that is most convenient, that they should be known (as such) and not molested. And Allah is Oft- Forgiving, Most Merciful!"
[EMQ - Al-Ahzaab - 33:59] This commandment from Allah(swt) makes it fard for the Muslimah to cover herself properly and not display her beauty to others, other than her mahram(family) and her husband.
She covers herself because she knows that she must conceal the blessings that Allah(swt) has bestowed on her. This covering is an act of worship a way the Muslimah protects herself.
She wears the niqaab - even though it is not fard for her to wear, she will do it willingly for the Sake of Allah and she knows it pleases her Lord! She conceals herself like a pearl enclosed in an oyster - this gives her the grace and protection she requires for herself and it makes her happy.
Her presence is soft and graceful, she has tranquility in her heart and is happy with what she has. When she is seen she brings happiness to those whom she loves and those who love her because of her character and how she carries herself.
Her speech is gentle, in which she takes thought in her words and actions. Even when she forgets she is humble and realises her mistakes and knows that she is not perfect but she must still try her best to be a good Muslimah."Truly, Allaah has vessels from amongst the people of the earth, and the vessels of your Lord are the hearts of his righteous slaves, and the most beloved of them to Him are the softest and most tender ones".
[Recorded in Ibn Majah and At Tabarani]
By covering she earns the love and respect of her husband, who admires and loves her for what she does and that he knows without a doubt that she belongs to him and is only his to look at. He is pleased with her character and knows that he can trust her, he values her and appreciates her as his wife, friend and the mother of his children and has for her a special place in his heart that he occupies with her memories and good deeds.She seeks to please her husband as she knows by pleasing him, she is pleasing Allah(swt). By obeying him she obeys Allah(swt). She is looked and cared for by her husband like a treasured pearl - who is fragile and sensitive, he holds much value for her because he adores her and she helps him in his struggle and dawah.
A true Muslimah always seeks to earn the pleasure of her Lord, this she does by learning, studying, understanding, having a good circle of friends, she recites the Book of Allah(swt) and she implements it in her daily life, she follows the sunnah and hopes for the best reward for her and her husband from Allah(swt).
She will remind her husband if he errors and will share with him his good times and bad. She eases for him his worries by speaking to him and encouraging him to do voluntary acts. They will both wake up for the night prayer and pray together - this they both know will bring them happiness and tranquility in their marriage.
She fears Allah and she does not talk if there is no need. As she knows that the woman is weak in terms of talking, and gossiping so she keeps herself away from such places and people.
She knows that she must seek the pleasure of Allah(swt) and she will do that in the best way she can. She does not hesitate in making decisions when it come to pleasing Allah(swt) as she knows that it will bring sukoon to her heart. A Muslimah knows that she must only please Allah(swt) first and no one else.
The Messenger Muhammad(saw) said:“Whoever seeks the pleasure of Allah at the risk of displeasing the people, Allah will take care of him and protect him from them. But whoever seeks the pleasure of the people at the risk of displeasing Allah, Allah will abandon him to the care of people”
[Tirimidhi]
In its 'Ibaadah aspect, marriage is an act pleasing to Allah because it is in accordance with his commandments that husband and wife love each other and help each other to make efforts to continue the human race and rear and nurse their children to become true servants of Allah.
"And among His signs is this, that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that you may dwell in tranquility with them, and He has put love and mercy between your hearts. Undoubtedly in these are signs for those who reflect."
[EMQ - Ar-Rum - 30:21]
[EMQ - Ar-Rum - 30:21]
The Muslimah is the pillar for her Believing husband, she helps him with his work and wishes for him to succeed in the Dunya and Akhirah. She supports him through all the difficulties, the hard times and the times of ease. She reminds him of the Messenger Muhammad(saw) and the companions(ra) their struggle and hardship. She reminds him of the reward that awaits for him and the words of Allah(swt):
.jpg)
“So verily, with every hardship there is relief, Verily, with the hardship there is relief. So when you have finished, then stand up for Allâh’s worship. And to your Lord turn your invocations“. [EMQ - Ash-Sharh - 94:5-8]
- for the difficulties that he is going through for the sake of Allah(swt) and prays for the best reward from their Lord! Her aim is to attain Paradise for her and her husband so that they can be together in the hereafter too.
Therefore she is indeed a treasured pearl, most deserved to be looked after and given that special security too. She is the pearl and comfort of her family, her husbands eyes and his heart.
Most Importantly that she fears Allah(swt) and therefore she is The Essence of Taqwa.
Having Tawakkal - Relying Upon Allah(swt)
Having Tawakkal - Relying Upon Allah(swt)
In life we experience many events, they may be good or bad, they may cause ease or even hardship. Each one of us has gone through are going through some life changing events.
For those who have not, then for sure one day they will, this is inevitable for it is part of the test of life.
Allah (SWT) said in the Quran,
"Do people think that they will be left alone because they say: "We believe," and will not be tested?"
[EMQ - Al-Ankabut - 29:2]
This verse clearly explains that having belief is not an exemption from being tested. Rather, everyone of us will be tested and put into difficult situations.
The test could be in the area of belief (e.g. Shaytaan makes disbelief glamorous), from those whom we love (i.e. from parents or siblings may stop or be an obstacle in adhering to Islam), from those whom we hate (e.g. the disbelievers i.e. the occupiers of Iraq and Afghanistan), from that which we have (e.g. possessing much wealth), or for that which we desire but don't possess (e.g. being poor and unable to afford basic needs).
The test is not just the situation itself but also our reaction to the test. In the Quran Allah (SWT) explained the aim behind the test,
"And We indeed tested those who were before them. And Allah will certainly make (it) known (the truth of) those who are true, and will certainly make (it) known (the falsehood of) those who are liars, (although Allah knows all that before putting them to test)".
[EMQ - Al-Ankabut - 29:3]
In this verse Allah (SWT) is telling us why He tests us, so those that are truthful are purified from the betrayers.
The aim of this short article is to discuss how to be successful and be truthful in the difficult situations we experience in life, and this is the concept of Tawakkal.
Tawakkal means to place your trust in Allah, and this absolute reliance upon Allah (SWT) must be in every situation and the result of the situation.
The first generation of Muslims (i.e. the Sahabah [RA]), understood the true spirit of Tawakkal. It was because of their purified understanding of Tawakkal that gave them confidence to do great deeds, even at the expense of losing their wealth, honour, family and even their lives.
When current day generations hear about some of the heroic feats of the first generation it seems like fantasy, unreal.
Hence today we see very few people attempting to replicate them.
One of the key differences between us and them is how we understand the concept of Tawakkal. If we look at current reality, whenever we are placed in a difficult situation, instead of turning to Allah (SWT) for support, many of us turn to our own resources to better the difficult situation.
We make the same mistakes that the people of Nûh (AS) made, instead of turning to Allah (SWT) and boarding the Ark of Nûh. They climbed the highest mountains seeking refuge in them, they thought they would be saved. The mountains were of no use and the people were destroyed. This will be the same result every time we turn to the powers and resources of man instead of turning to Allah.
If we look at the power of man, we see that his power is weak, he could not save the people of China from the earthquakes, or the Florida from the hurricanes, New Orleans from the floods, the unsinkable Titanic' from the ocean, or the Challenger' space shuttle from exploding in the heavens.
When man depends on his own powers for strength and support, he is weak and venerable. But when he depends on Allah (SWT) there are no limits to the Strength and Power of the One that supports him.
And Allah (SWT) said in the Quran,
"If Allah helps you, none can overcome you; and if He forsakes you, who is there after Him that can help you? And in Allah (Alone) let believers put their trust".
[EMQ - Al Imran - 3:160]
If Allah (SWT) helps us, no might nor power, no person or nation can ever overcome us. If Allah (SWT) helps us, every difficult test becomes bearable. It is in trusting (Tawakkal) is the gateway to earn the Love of Allah, because Allah (SWT) said,
"... put your trust in Allah, certainly, Allah loves those who put their trust (in Him)".
[EMQ - Al Imran - 3:159]
The first generation strongly believed that nothing happens except by the will of Allah, this was the secret to their success, they struggled against their families, tribes and other disbelieving nations.
And Allah (SWT) said,
"Say: "Nothing shall ever happen to us except what Allah has ordained for us. He is our Maula (Lord, Helper and Protector)." And in Allah let the believers put their trust".
[EMQ - At-Tawbah - 9:51]
In fact, throughout their companionship with the prophet of Allah, Allah (SWT) ordered the believers again and again to establish complete dependence on Allah.
Allah (SWT) tells us,
"But if they turn away, say (O Muhammad SAW): "Allah is sufficient for me. La ilaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He), in Him I put my trust and He is the Lord of the Mighty Throne".
[ EMQ - At-Tawbah - 9:129]
Tawakkal is a characteristic of Iman (belief) which has been commanded by Allah(swt). It is the means of strengthening your Iman. It is knowing that no matter what happens, in the end everything will be ok, as long as you depend upon Allah to support and help to remedy the situation. One must know that everything that happens, happens because it is part of a divine plan.
There is good in every situation, even in difficult situations, although we may not see it. If a person is tested with prison, hunger, loneliness, poverty or any other hardship, there is good in it as long as we depend upon Allah (SWT) i.e. to have Tawakkal in Allah.
It is the Tawakkal in Allah that is the torch of hope amidst the darkness's of doubt, vulnerability and weakness. In fact Allah (SWT) says,
"The believers are only those who, when Allah is mentioned, feel a fear in their hearts and when His Verses (this Qur’an) are recited unto them, they (i.e. the Verses) increase their Faith; and they put their trust in their Lord (Alone)".
[EMQ - Al- Anfal - 8:2]
This was the case of Yusuf (AS) when he was falsely imprisoned, he had Tawakkal. Ibrâhim (AS) was thrown into the great fire, he had Tawakkal. Maryam (AS) when she went alone to give birth, she had Tawakkal. Sarah (AS), when she was barren for most part of her life, she had Tawakkal. Hajar (AS) when she was abandoned in the middle of nowhere, she had Tawakkal.
Aisha (RA), when people accused her honour, she had Tawakkal.
Like them and numerous others who have experienced incidents which are severe or difficult they did not place their trust in technology, not in wealth, no in other people, but they had complete and absolute Tawakkal in Allah.
Because of their Tawakkal in Allah, Allah covered them with mercy, love and increased their iman, and granted them victory and success in both current and afterlife.
In one hadeeth, the Messenger of Allah (SWT) taught how we should have Tawakkal, it has been reported that a man asked,
"O messenger of Allah, should I tie the camel and make Tawakkal or let it go free and make Tawakkal?" The prophet replied, "Tie it and make Tawakkal".
[Reported in Tirmidhi]
Therefore whenever we face any situation, we do as much as we can to change the situation. And Allah (SWT) said,
"Verily! Allah will not change the good condition of a people as long as they do not change their state of goodness themselves".
[EMQ - Ar-Raa’d - 13:11]
We should not say all things are destined and then do nothing about the situation. The truthful person believes all matters are predestined, but also believes he must do what has been ordered by Allah.
Whatever the situation maybe we must do our part, but leave the results to in the Hands of Allah, in fact the concept of Tawakkal is based upon five pillars:
1. To know Allah, that He is the one that decrees all matters and He does as He pleases.
2. To know, for every problem has a solution and we must follow the divine methodology i.e. the prophetic example.
3. To remain firm at all situations and depend completely on Allah (SWT) to bring about change.
4. To have complete tranquillity in the heart when having Tawakkul in Allah, because Allah (SWT) never betrays.
5. To trust Allah (SWT) willingly and without force, just like the child has trust in his parents for all his needs.
In conclusion, when we are faced with testing situations, we must at all times remember Allah and seek support from Him(swt).
By entrusting Allah, we must be convinced that, what Allah (SWT) decrees is best for us, even if it is apparently the opposite of what we consider to be good. We should to be content with the decrees of Allah (SWT) and we must know whatever is decreed is best for us even if the benefit is apparent or not.
By having this Tawakkul in Allah, it will develop courage, bravery, peace and contentment to our hearts at times of need. Allah (SWT) helps whom He wills, so we must ask Him often, and trust in Him alone.
In life we experience many events, they may be good or bad, they may cause ease or even hardship. Each one of us has gone through are going through some life changing events.
For those who have not, then for sure one day they will, this is inevitable for it is part of the test of life.
Allah (SWT) said in the Quran,
"Do people think that they will be left alone because they say: "We believe," and will not be tested?"
[EMQ - Al-Ankabut - 29:2]
This verse clearly explains that having belief is not an exemption from being tested. Rather, everyone of us will be tested and put into difficult situations.
The test could be in the area of belief (e.g. Shaytaan makes disbelief glamorous), from those whom we love (i.e. from parents or siblings may stop or be an obstacle in adhering to Islam), from those whom we hate (e.g. the disbelievers i.e. the occupiers of Iraq and Afghanistan), from that which we have (e.g. possessing much wealth), or for that which we desire but don't possess (e.g. being poor and unable to afford basic needs).
The test is not just the situation itself but also our reaction to the test. In the Quran Allah (SWT) explained the aim behind the test,
"And We indeed tested those who were before them. And Allah will certainly make (it) known (the truth of) those who are true, and will certainly make (it) known (the falsehood of) those who are liars, (although Allah knows all that before putting them to test)".
[EMQ - Al-Ankabut - 29:3]
In this verse Allah (SWT) is telling us why He tests us, so those that are truthful are purified from the betrayers.
The aim of this short article is to discuss how to be successful and be truthful in the difficult situations we experience in life, and this is the concept of Tawakkal.
Tawakkal means to place your trust in Allah, and this absolute reliance upon Allah (SWT) must be in every situation and the result of the situation.
The first generation of Muslims (i.e. the Sahabah [RA]), understood the true spirit of Tawakkal. It was because of their purified understanding of Tawakkal that gave them confidence to do great deeds, even at the expense of losing their wealth, honour, family and even their lives.
When current day generations hear about some of the heroic feats of the first generation it seems like fantasy, unreal.
Hence today we see very few people attempting to replicate them.
One of the key differences between us and them is how we understand the concept of Tawakkal. If we look at current reality, whenever we are placed in a difficult situation, instead of turning to Allah (SWT) for support, many of us turn to our own resources to better the difficult situation.
We make the same mistakes that the people of Nûh (AS) made, instead of turning to Allah (SWT) and boarding the Ark of Nûh. They climbed the highest mountains seeking refuge in them, they thought they would be saved. The mountains were of no use and the people were destroyed. This will be the same result every time we turn to the powers and resources of man instead of turning to Allah.
If we look at the power of man, we see that his power is weak, he could not save the people of China from the earthquakes, or the Florida from the hurricanes, New Orleans from the floods, the unsinkable Titanic' from the ocean, or the Challenger' space shuttle from exploding in the heavens.
When man depends on his own powers for strength and support, he is weak and venerable. But when he depends on Allah (SWT) there are no limits to the Strength and Power of the One that supports him.
And Allah (SWT) said in the Quran,
"If Allah helps you, none can overcome you; and if He forsakes you, who is there after Him that can help you? And in Allah (Alone) let believers put their trust".
[EMQ - Al Imran - 3:160]
If Allah (SWT) helps us, no might nor power, no person or nation can ever overcome us. If Allah (SWT) helps us, every difficult test becomes bearable. It is in trusting (Tawakkal) is the gateway to earn the Love of Allah, because Allah (SWT) said,
"... put your trust in Allah, certainly, Allah loves those who put their trust (in Him)".
[EMQ - Al Imran - 3:159]
The first generation strongly believed that nothing happens except by the will of Allah, this was the secret to their success, they struggled against their families, tribes and other disbelieving nations.
And Allah (SWT) said,
"Say: "Nothing shall ever happen to us except what Allah has ordained for us. He is our Maula (Lord, Helper and Protector)." And in Allah let the believers put their trust".
[EMQ - At-Tawbah - 9:51]
In fact, throughout their companionship with the prophet of Allah, Allah (SWT) ordered the believers again and again to establish complete dependence on Allah.
Allah (SWT) tells us,
"But if they turn away, say (O Muhammad SAW): "Allah is sufficient for me. La ilaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He), in Him I put my trust and He is the Lord of the Mighty Throne".
[ EMQ - At-Tawbah - 9:129]
Tawakkal is a characteristic of Iman (belief) which has been commanded by Allah(swt). It is the means of strengthening your Iman. It is knowing that no matter what happens, in the end everything will be ok, as long as you depend upon Allah to support and help to remedy the situation. One must know that everything that happens, happens because it is part of a divine plan.
There is good in every situation, even in difficult situations, although we may not see it. If a person is tested with prison, hunger, loneliness, poverty or any other hardship, there is good in it as long as we depend upon Allah (SWT) i.e. to have Tawakkal in Allah.
It is the Tawakkal in Allah that is the torch of hope amidst the darkness's of doubt, vulnerability and weakness. In fact Allah (SWT) says,
"The believers are only those who, when Allah is mentioned, feel a fear in their hearts and when His Verses (this Qur’an) are recited unto them, they (i.e. the Verses) increase their Faith; and they put their trust in their Lord (Alone)".
[EMQ - Al- Anfal - 8:2]
This was the case of Yusuf (AS) when he was falsely imprisoned, he had Tawakkal. Ibrâhim (AS) was thrown into the great fire, he had Tawakkal. Maryam (AS) when she went alone to give birth, she had Tawakkal. Sarah (AS), when she was barren for most part of her life, she had Tawakkal. Hajar (AS) when she was abandoned in the middle of nowhere, she had Tawakkal.
Aisha (RA), when people accused her honour, she had Tawakkal.
Like them and numerous others who have experienced incidents which are severe or difficult they did not place their trust in technology, not in wealth, no in other people, but they had complete and absolute Tawakkal in Allah.
Because of their Tawakkal in Allah, Allah covered them with mercy, love and increased their iman, and granted them victory and success in both current and afterlife.
In one hadeeth, the Messenger of Allah (SWT) taught how we should have Tawakkal, it has been reported that a man asked,
"O messenger of Allah, should I tie the camel and make Tawakkal or let it go free and make Tawakkal?" The prophet replied, "Tie it and make Tawakkal".
[Reported in Tirmidhi]
Therefore whenever we face any situation, we do as much as we can to change the situation. And Allah (SWT) said,
"Verily! Allah will not change the good condition of a people as long as they do not change their state of goodness themselves".
[EMQ - Ar-Raa’d - 13:11]
We should not say all things are destined and then do nothing about the situation. The truthful person believes all matters are predestined, but also believes he must do what has been ordered by Allah.
Whatever the situation maybe we must do our part, but leave the results to in the Hands of Allah, in fact the concept of Tawakkal is based upon five pillars:
1. To know Allah, that He is the one that decrees all matters and He does as He pleases.
2. To know, for every problem has a solution and we must follow the divine methodology i.e. the prophetic example.
3. To remain firm at all situations and depend completely on Allah (SWT) to bring about change.
4. To have complete tranquillity in the heart when having Tawakkul in Allah, because Allah (SWT) never betrays.
5. To trust Allah (SWT) willingly and without force, just like the child has trust in his parents for all his needs.
In conclusion, when we are faced with testing situations, we must at all times remember Allah and seek support from Him(swt).
By entrusting Allah, we must be convinced that, what Allah (SWT) decrees is best for us, even if it is apparently the opposite of what we consider to be good. We should to be content with the decrees of Allah (SWT) and we must know whatever is decreed is best for us even if the benefit is apparent or not.
By having this Tawakkul in Allah, it will develop courage, bravery, peace and contentment to our hearts at times of need. Allah (SWT) helps whom He wills, so we must ask Him often, and trust in Him alone.
Standing Firm In the Cause Of Allah(swt)
If we examine the current situation of the Muslim Ummah, we would agree on the state of humiliation, occupation and attack that it is under. However, one has a duty to look to the Qur'an and Sunnah and establish where we have gone wrong. One of the major problems we will find is the decline in the understanding of Tawheed.
Tawheed as defined by the Ulema, such as Sheikh Muhammed ibn Abdul Wahhab (RH) is the exclusivity in the worship of Allah (in understanding, testifying and in belief). It is fundamental that we must believe and affirm Allah (SWT)'s names and attributes and make all forms of our worship for Him alone.
If we understand that Allah (SWT) is the one who gives life and takes life, we will never compromise our Deen because of fear from any false deities (tawagheet).
-
"La ilaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He). It is He Who gives life and causes death, your Lord and the Lord of your fore-fathers."
[EMQ - Ad-Dukhan - 44:8]
If we believe that Allah (SWT) is the provider, we will never seek the rizq through prohibited means nor sell our Deen for a small price.
"And whosoever fears Allah and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty).And He will provide him from (sources) he never could imagine. And whosoever puts his trust in Allah, then He will suffice him. Verily, Allah will accomplish his purpose. Indeed Allah has set a measure for all things."
[EMQ - At-Talaq - 65:2-3]
"And buy not with My Verses a small price (i.e. getting a small gain by selling My Verses), and fear Me and Me Alone."
[EMQ - Al-Baqarah - 2:41]
If we believe that Allah (SWT) is the only legislator, we will never accept those who rule by other than what Allah has revealed nor accept any system such as democracy.
"The legislation (or the judgement) is for none but Allah. He has commanded that you worship none but Him (i.e. His Monotheism), that is the (true) straight religion, but most men know not."
[EMQ - Yusuf - 12:40]
If we believe Allah is Al-Wakeel then he would be sufficient for us in our time of need.
"And whosoever puts his trust in Allah, then He will suffice him. Verily, Allah will accomplish his purpose. Indeed Allah has set a measure for all things."
[EMQ - At-Talaq - 65:3]
Let us look to our examples from our predecessors from the noble Prophets and those who were promised Jannah (paradise) to see how this Tawheed is implemented.
Ibrâhim (AS) and the Fire
Ibrâhim (as) came to his people and forbade them from worshipping the idols. When they refused, Ibrâhim (AS) destroyed the idols, and consequently the Mushrikeen decided to build a fire and throw Ibrâhim in it. The fire was so furious that birds could not fly over it and Ibrâhim had to be catapulted from a distance. When Ibrâhim was in the air after being catapulted, Jibraeel(AS) came and said, "Oh Ibrâhim do you need any help?" And Ibrâhim replied, "If it is from you I am not needy but if it is from Allah then I am fakir." And he said, "Hasbun Allah wa ni’amal Wakeel (Allah (Alone) is Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs (for us))." And Allah (SWT) commanded the fire to be cool on Ibrâhim.
Musa (AS) and Pharaoh
When Allah commanded Musa (AS) to leave with Banî Israel from Egypt, the Pharaoh gathered the biggest army and went after them. Musa(AS) and Banî Israel reached the sea which was in front of them and the army of Pharaoh was behind them. Banî Israel lost hope and said, "We are destroyed." But Musa (AS) said, "My lord will not abandon me, Hasbun Allah wa ni’amal Wakeel (Allah (Alone) is Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs (for us).)." And Allah (SWT) parted the sea for Musa (as) and the Pharaoh and his army were drowned.
The Sahabah in time of the Ahzab
When the Prophet(saw) migrated to Madinah and established the first Islamic state, battles were fought until the Quraish united with all the other enemies and formed a coalition, the situation became severe and Allah tells us about the reaction of the Sahabah:
"Those (i.e. believers) unto whom the people (hypocrites) said, "Verily, the people (pagans) have gathered against you (a great army), therefore, fear them." But it (only) increased them in Faith, and they said: "Allah (Alone) is Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs (for us).""
[EMQ - Ale-Imran - 3:173]
"And when the believers saw AlAhzab (the Confederates), they said: "This is what Allah and His Messenger (Muhammad SAW) had promised us, and Allah and His Messenger (Muhammad SAW) had spoken the truth, and it only added to their faith and to their submissiveness (to Allah)."
[EMQ - Al-Ahzab - 33:22]
My dear Muslims the examples are many, Yahya (AS) was killed, Yunus (AS) was swallowed by the whale, Ayyoub (AS) remained patient in illness and loss of children. However, these narrations were sent down to us not as mere stories but as an example for us to be firm in the tests we face today. The tests of facing tyrants such as America and the global coalition of the crusaders against Islam and Muslims. We must stand firm in our duties of Da’wah, commanding good and forbidding evil and liberating our Muslim lands which are currently being occupied by the tawagheet and disbelievers.
If we examine the current situation of the Muslim Ummah, we would agree on the state of humiliation, occupation and attack that it is under. However, one has a duty to look to the Qur'an and Sunnah and establish where we have gone wrong. One of the major problems we will find is the decline in the understanding of Tawheed.
Tawheed as defined by the Ulema, such as Sheikh Muhammed ibn Abdul Wahhab (RH) is the exclusivity in the worship of Allah (in understanding, testifying and in belief). It is fundamental that we must believe and affirm Allah (SWT)'s names and attributes and make all forms of our worship for Him alone.
If we understand that Allah (SWT) is the one who gives life and takes life, we will never compromise our Deen because of fear from any false deities (tawagheet).
-
"La ilaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He). It is He Who gives life and causes death, your Lord and the Lord of your fore-fathers."
[EMQ - Ad-Dukhan - 44:8]
If we believe that Allah (SWT) is the provider, we will never seek the rizq through prohibited means nor sell our Deen for a small price.
"And whosoever fears Allah and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty).And He will provide him from (sources) he never could imagine. And whosoever puts his trust in Allah, then He will suffice him. Verily, Allah will accomplish his purpose. Indeed Allah has set a measure for all things."
[EMQ - At-Talaq - 65:2-3]
"And buy not with My Verses a small price (i.e. getting a small gain by selling My Verses), and fear Me and Me Alone."
[EMQ - Al-Baqarah - 2:41]
If we believe that Allah (SWT) is the only legislator, we will never accept those who rule by other than what Allah has revealed nor accept any system such as democracy.
"The legislation (or the judgement) is for none but Allah. He has commanded that you worship none but Him (i.e. His Monotheism), that is the (true) straight religion, but most men know not."
[EMQ - Yusuf - 12:40]
If we believe Allah is Al-Wakeel then he would be sufficient for us in our time of need.
"And whosoever puts his trust in Allah, then He will suffice him. Verily, Allah will accomplish his purpose. Indeed Allah has set a measure for all things."
[EMQ - At-Talaq - 65:3]
Let us look to our examples from our predecessors from the noble Prophets and those who were promised Jannah (paradise) to see how this Tawheed is implemented.
Ibrâhim (AS) and the Fire
Ibrâhim (as) came to his people and forbade them from worshipping the idols. When they refused, Ibrâhim (AS) destroyed the idols, and consequently the Mushrikeen decided to build a fire and throw Ibrâhim in it. The fire was so furious that birds could not fly over it and Ibrâhim had to be catapulted from a distance. When Ibrâhim was in the air after being catapulted, Jibraeel(AS) came and said, "Oh Ibrâhim do you need any help?" And Ibrâhim replied, "If it is from you I am not needy but if it is from Allah then I am fakir." And he said, "Hasbun Allah wa ni’amal Wakeel (Allah (Alone) is Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs (for us))." And Allah (SWT) commanded the fire to be cool on Ibrâhim.
Musa (AS) and Pharaoh
When Allah commanded Musa (AS) to leave with Banî Israel from Egypt, the Pharaoh gathered the biggest army and went after them. Musa(AS) and Banî Israel reached the sea which was in front of them and the army of Pharaoh was behind them. Banî Israel lost hope and said, "We are destroyed." But Musa (AS) said, "My lord will not abandon me, Hasbun Allah wa ni’amal Wakeel (Allah (Alone) is Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs (for us).)." And Allah (SWT) parted the sea for Musa (as) and the Pharaoh and his army were drowned.
The Sahabah in time of the Ahzab
When the Prophet(saw) migrated to Madinah and established the first Islamic state, battles were fought until the Quraish united with all the other enemies and formed a coalition, the situation became severe and Allah tells us about the reaction of the Sahabah:
"Those (i.e. believers) unto whom the people (hypocrites) said, "Verily, the people (pagans) have gathered against you (a great army), therefore, fear them." But it (only) increased them in Faith, and they said: "Allah (Alone) is Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs (for us).""
[EMQ - Ale-Imran - 3:173]
"And when the believers saw AlAhzab (the Confederates), they said: "This is what Allah and His Messenger (Muhammad SAW) had promised us, and Allah and His Messenger (Muhammad SAW) had spoken the truth, and it only added to their faith and to their submissiveness (to Allah)."
[EMQ - Al-Ahzab - 33:22]
My dear Muslims the examples are many, Yahya (AS) was killed, Yunus (AS) was swallowed by the whale, Ayyoub (AS) remained patient in illness and loss of children. However, these narrations were sent down to us not as mere stories but as an example for us to be firm in the tests we face today. The tests of facing tyrants such as America and the global coalition of the crusaders against Islam and Muslims. We must stand firm in our duties of Da’wah, commanding good and forbidding evil and liberating our Muslim lands which are currently being occupied by the tawagheet and disbelievers.
لزلزلة سورةا
Surah Zalzalah
Bismillah.
Allah swt said in surah al Zalzalah: 1
زُلْزِلَتِ الْأَرْضُ زِلْزَالَهَا إِذَا
“When the earth is shaken to its utmost convulsion”
Allah swt revealed this ayah and surah in Makkah - It was a Makki surah.
It was a surah revealed at a time when the messenger Muhammad had no power, but a handful of believers. When the people at that time were receiving the revelation before the Islamic state in Madinah.
Although the prophethood of Muhammad was written before he [saw] was even born, his mission had only started when he was 40 years old, and it was at this age when he was given the revelation.
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The revelation however is of two types:
Al Wahi al-Qur’aani: The Qur’aanic revelation - Sayings of Allah swt
Al Wahi al-Nabawi: The prophetic revelation - Sayings and actions of the Messenger Muhammad [saw], this is also known as the Sunnah of Muhammad.
Besides the sunnah of Muhammad we have a different Sunnah - the sayings and actions of the Sahaabah. This may is not revelation, but their understanding of the two types of revelations is binding upon us.
The sahaabah are the ones who have understood the revelations better then anyone else - simply because the revelations were sent regarding them, concerning them, judging their lives.
Nobody can claim they know the Qur’an better then any sahaabah - be it Abu Bakr, or Omar.
And Allaah swt said:
وَالسَّابِقُونَ الأَوَّلُونَ مِنَ الْمُهَاجِرِينَ وَالأَنصَارِ وَالَّذِينَ اتَّبَعُوهُم بِإِحْسَانٍ رَّضِيَ اللّهُ عَنْهُمْ وَرَضُواْ عَنْهُ وَأَعَدَّ لَهُمْ جَنَّاتٍ تَجْرِي تَحْتَهَا الأَنْهَارُ خَالِدِينَ فِيهَا أَبَدًا ذَلِكَ الْفَوْزُ الْعَظِيمُ
“That he is pleased with them, and they are pleased with Allah.”
[At-Taubah 9:100]
For them is prepared the Jannah under which rivers flow.
The sahaabah are the Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jamaa’ah, they are too An Firqathun Naajiyyah (the saved sect) - the sect in Jannah, whereas the other 72 sects are in hellfire, as the hadith mentions.
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So this ayah and surah was revealed in Makkah. And the people to witness that were the sahaabah - Abu Bakr, Omar and etc. The sahaabah were the ones Allah swt was addressing and reminding.
This surah (Zalzalah) was revealed to remind them and to remind those after them something that is very important.
Remember that at the time when they were in Majmoo, the muslims were facing severe suffering, and torture. It was at this time when Muhammad had come out, openly and publicly on mount Safa, and said to the people:
“Oh people of Makkah if I said to you, that behind me is an army coming to invade you, would you believe me?”
And the people declared “yes! You have always spoken the truth, you are al amin”.
But when he [saw] continued to tell them that he was the messenger of Allah, and that there was nobody worthy of worship except him, did the people turn their backs, and his uncle Abu Lahab said to Muhammad, that may your hands be destroyed.
How can it be, that one minute they call Muhammad the truthful, the trustworthy, and then the next minute they turn their backs, and curse him [saw], and reject him? They continued to attack him, calling him majnoon, a lunatic, a liar just because he [saw] called for La illaha Illallah.
Then Allah swt revealed to reassure him [saw]:
مَا أَنتَ بِنِعْمَةِ رَبِّكَ بِمَجْنُونٍ
“You are not by the mercy of your lord mad or possessed.”
[Al Qalam 68:2]
So yes, they did face a time of hardship and rejection. The people refused to acknowledge them.
Look to the story of Bilal - how he was tortured for embracing Islaam.
He was beaten and tortured, in the hot desert, lying on the hot sand - heat from the sun which will burn you. Not only that, but they poured boiling oil on his body in the middle of this hot desert. The rock on his chest was not only that he faced as many say. But he was in this position, this torturing position for days.
Look to the story of Amaar bin Yasser - how he too was tortured and lashed in the hot desert.
In fact they lashed him so much, that even when he died, the marks remained on his back. When they looked to his body when he passed away they said that you could still see the signs of torture in Makkah.
Amaar bin Yasser was the one who saw his own mother die in front of his own eyes. His father was thrown into a well and killed.
And we have Khabaab - who was killed for refusing to compromise.
Why did they face such extreme hardships, which are totally unbearable? Simply because they refused to reject the kalimaah La illaha Illallah!
They refused to compromise any hukm shar’ee, or leave any part of Islaam.
Indeed they did face true hardship. Nothing like the hardships we face today. Yes you may be arrested from time to time, you may have your passports taken away, you have been imprisoned for some years - but you haven’t witnessed the murder of your mother, the boiling oil over your chests, and the stabbings in your private parts.
So Allah swt revealed this Ayah:
زُلْزِلَتِ الْأَرْضُ زِلْزَالَهَاإِذَا
“When the earth is shaken to its utmost convulsion”
[Al-Zalzalah 99:1]
Allaah swt firstly attributed the earthquake as a property and belonging to the earth.
When we link another ayah with this, we see the lesson.
Allah swt says:
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ اتَّقُواْ اللّهَ حَقَّ تُقَاتِهِ وَلاَ تَمُوتُنَّ إِلاَّ وَأَنتُم مُّسْلِمُونَ
Oh you who believe! Fear Allaah as he should be feared, and die not except in the state of Islaam (ie - muslims)”
[Ale-Imran 3:102]
Imagine how the muslims in makkah at that time understood the words in this ayah. Imagine the hard impact it had on their hearts. They were being tortured, murdered, threatened with death, boycotted by the Quraish.
At that time, anyone who was Muslim was called extremist, lunatic, majnoon, fundamentalist. They would call the people not to listen to Muhammad, calling him insane, a magician. The propaganda and media was everywhere.
Imagine how low, and defeated the muslims felt at that time. Many muslims today, if they were faced with such hardship, would they not turn round and give up? Would they not leave it to the side and not bother with it, for it is too much to handle?
- But Allaah swt ordered them (and us) to fear him swt the way he deserves to be feared - meaning dare you to compromise anything. {This taqwa’ is not just to say you fear Allaah and do as you like, but you must fear Allaah as Abu Hurairah described:
“at taqwa is like walking through a thorny path, taking care so that you don’t touch a thorn by mistake”}
Yet Allaah swt ordered them, that if they are to die, they are to die as muslims only!
And when Amaar bin Yasser was broken completely physically and mentally - he rejected Muhammad in order to be left alone. Due to duress he said a word of kufr - and when he went to Muhammad [saw] he was weeping and crying for saying this one word. And Allaah revealed the ayah:
“Whoever disbelieves except the one under duress whilst his heart was full of imaan will be punished”
Muhammad [saw] testified that Amaar bin Yasser was full of imaan from head to toe. They were the sahaabah.
The sahaabah were those who did not want to compromise an inch of their deen. They did not want to die, except that they were muslim - they did not want to die on the kufr, the nifaaq, the jahl, the munkar. In fact they wanted to die on the tawheed, on the kalimat-tul laa illaha Illallah, they wanted to die as muslims only. They wanted to fear Allaah the way he swt deserves to be feared.
These ayath were revealed to warn us that we must not give up at a time of crisis. He swt warned us that just because there is war in Iraq, don’t leave your deen, joining the Americans and British army, don’t ally with them and start to say to the people that there is no jihad, and that the jihad is fithna’.
Don’t start to say that we are living in Dar ul Islaam and hence we are obliged to obey the taaghouthi rulers. Don’t start to say to the people that the mujahideen are khawaarij, and the tawagheeth are heroes. Don’t become 007 just because of the small hardship you face.
We must be like the sahaabah.
- When Allaah says go out openly publicly calling for the deen of al Islaam, go!
- When Allaah says go to jihad, go!
- When Allaah says fear Me, as I deserve to be feared - fear him!
- When Allaah says rise against the kufr, nifaaq, jahl - rise!
We cannot stand back ignoring the calls of Allaah. Rather we must act the minute we hear the call as the sahaabah did. When Allaah orders us, we say Samehna’ wa Atha’na - that we hear and obey. There is no need to make excuses saying, that the kufaar have an upper hand, that we have no strength, that we have no covenant.
If the kufaar have an upper hand, you must fight that upper hand till you have the upper hand. If you have no strength, you must try your best to convert your weakness to become strong, and if you believe that you have no covenant, instead of becoming 007, you must leave the place to a area where you are safe and do not need to become 007.
This is exactly what the sahaabah did.
The sahaabah were tortured but they never compromised
The sahaabah were killed yet they never compromised
The sahaabah were lashed but they never compromised
Bilal was killed, yet he never gave up in saying Ahadun Ahad, Ahadun Ahad (- until Abu Bakr as-siddique came and freed him from Umayyah bin Khalaf.)
- Why? Because they feared none but Allaah!
So Allaah swt warned the sahaabah and those after the sahaabah (ie ourselves), that whatever hardship and crisis you face today is nothing.
Therefore we must never let the shaytaan come to us and weaken our imaan more, so that we start to commit sin, we start to disobey Allaah and we start to forget how we used to fear Allaah at the time of ease.
It’s almost natural for us to fear Allaah in falling into the haraam at the time of ease - but when we are faced with the smallest of small hardships, we forget Allaah. And possibly we end up like MCB - who have completely sold their deen for the ease of funds and so-called masajids.
The terms Allaah swt used in this ayah, are immeasurable. In fact it is so great that everything from inside will come out.
Allaah swt said:
وَأَخْرَجَتِ الْأَرْضُ أَثْقَالَهَا
“And the earth throws out its burden (Athqaalaha)”
[Al-Zalzalah 99:2]
In the tafseer of Abdullah ibn Abaas of this ayah said: “ ‘Athqaalaha’ is all the graves.” Therefore all the people from all times will be raised without choice on that day.
However, the hour will only rise over the heads of the kufaar, or the faasiqeen or the faajireen, simply because Muhammad [saw] said:
“The hour will not rise except over the kuffar and the fujjar.”
As for the believers, a wind will pass them and take their soul like they sneezed.
Further, Allaah swt says:
وَقَالَ الْإِنسَانُ مَا لَهَا
يَوْمَئِذٍ تُحَدِّثُ أَخْبَارَهَا
“And man will ask, ‘What is going on?’
The earth will speak out all the news”
[Al-Zalzalah 99:3-4]
Allaah swt declares that on this day, at this moment will the souls ask what’s going on, from there will the earth speak against their bad deeds.
When Tony ruled by kufr, and Ahmad obeyed him - the earth will speak out and say ‘Ahmad walked on my back whilst obeying Tony’
When a woman and man fornicates - the earth will speak out and say ‘they feared none, and fornicated on my back’
When the thief took the property which did not belong to him or her - the earth will speak out.
And when the Muslim ummah has been attacked by the kufaar - the earth will speak out, that the rest sat there and did nothing.
It will be a time where no soul would feel comfortable - a time very difficult.
When the earth testifies all the good and bad, the hadith states that it will then report it all the Allaah swt.
Allaah swt said:
بِأَنَّ رَبَّكَ أَوْحَى لَهَا
“Because Allaah ordered it (the earth)”
[Zalzalah 99:5]
The earth submits to non but Allaah, and on that day it will be ordered to speak out.
In the tafseer of this ayah it states that “all the stones and all the inanimate things will speak out”.
Allaah swt said in Surah Fussilat ayah 11:
“…and he said to it (the earth): ‘Come together willingly or unwillingly.’ They said: ‘We do come (together), in willing obedience.’ ”
And further on into the surah, Allaah swt says:
يَوْمَئِذٍ يَصْدُرُ النَّاسُ أَشْتَاتًا لِّيُرَوْا أَعْمَالَهُمْ
“At that time people will come out in groups to be shown their deeds.”
[Al-Zalzalah 99:6]
On that day, man will be risen with those whom he was with on earth.
If he was a man who was with the musrikeen - he will be risen with them.
If he was a man who was with the Labour Party - he will be risen with them.
And similarly, if he was a man with the muslims, the mujahideen, and the sincere da’ees - he will be risen with them.
If he loves Islaam, loves Muhammad, loves the sahaabah - he will be risen with them.
Abdullah ibn Abaas said “Allaah will take all the people as delegations. And will drag the kufaar to hellfire (as if) they were thirsty and hungry (for it).”
The kufaar will say, that ‘we deserve it, if only they had listened and obeyed they would not have been here”.
They would start to say, we thought we were correct and the muslims were wrong - if only we had listened to them, and allied with them rather then having fought them.
And Insha’Allaah, George Bush will say ‘Indeed the world was divided into two camps, had it only been that I had been in the camp of Islaam rather then my camp of Kufr and failure.’
And Insha’Allaah every kaafir, every munafiq, every mushrik will see their failure, their hardest failure on the day.
When Allaah swt said:
“…to see all their own deeds”
[Al-Zalzalah 99:6]
We know that the deeds are the physical and the verbal actions. And they are of two types - the good and the bad.
On this day your books will be opened, and your cassettes and videos will be played - and you will have to face it on the day of judgement.
Allaah swt says:
فَمَن يَعْمَلْ مِثْقَالَ ذَرَّةٍ خَيْرًا يَرَهُ
“Whoever has done a small atoms weight of good, shall see it.”
[Al-Zalzalah 99:7]
The good is not what our desires say is good, rather it is what Allaah swt says is good - regardless of what the majority think today.
And finally, Allaah swt says in the surah:
وَمَن يَعْمَلْ مِثْقَالَ ذَرَّةٍ شَرًّا يَرَهُ
“Whoever does an atoms weight of bad, shall see it.”
[Al-Zalzalah 99:8]
And similarly the bad is not that which the majority say, or the laws within your desires say - it is what Allaah swt says it is.
And in another ayah Allaah swt states,
“By your lord, I am going to account all of what you used to do…”
And when Allaah swt makes an oath, we are to be shaken so hard that we loose consciousness. We should fear him so much. When we hear the oath, we should be able to see each others faces go white out of fear, we should be gob-smacked! Because Allaah swt never breaks his oath - and it will be something big!
Surah Zalzalah
Bismillah.
Allah swt said in surah al Zalzalah: 1
زُلْزِلَتِ الْأَرْضُ زِلْزَالَهَا إِذَا
“When the earth is shaken to its utmost convulsion”
Allah swt revealed this ayah and surah in Makkah - It was a Makki surah.
It was a surah revealed at a time when the messenger Muhammad had no power, but a handful of believers. When the people at that time were receiving the revelation before the Islamic state in Madinah.
Although the prophethood of Muhammad was written before he [saw] was even born, his mission had only started when he was 40 years old, and it was at this age when he was given the revelation.
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The revelation however is of two types:
Al Wahi al-Qur’aani: The Qur’aanic revelation - Sayings of Allah swt
Al Wahi al-Nabawi: The prophetic revelation - Sayings and actions of the Messenger Muhammad [saw], this is also known as the Sunnah of Muhammad.
Besides the sunnah of Muhammad we have a different Sunnah - the sayings and actions of the Sahaabah. This may is not revelation, but their understanding of the two types of revelations is binding upon us.
The sahaabah are the ones who have understood the revelations better then anyone else - simply because the revelations were sent regarding them, concerning them, judging their lives.
Nobody can claim they know the Qur’an better then any sahaabah - be it Abu Bakr, or Omar.
And Allaah swt said:
وَالسَّابِقُونَ الأَوَّلُونَ مِنَ الْمُهَاجِرِينَ وَالأَنصَارِ وَالَّذِينَ اتَّبَعُوهُم بِإِحْسَانٍ رَّضِيَ اللّهُ عَنْهُمْ وَرَضُواْ عَنْهُ وَأَعَدَّ لَهُمْ جَنَّاتٍ تَجْرِي تَحْتَهَا الأَنْهَارُ خَالِدِينَ فِيهَا أَبَدًا ذَلِكَ الْفَوْزُ الْعَظِيمُ
“That he is pleased with them, and they are pleased with Allah.”
[At-Taubah 9:100]
For them is prepared the Jannah under which rivers flow.
The sahaabah are the Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jamaa’ah, they are too An Firqathun Naajiyyah (the saved sect) - the sect in Jannah, whereas the other 72 sects are in hellfire, as the hadith mentions.
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So this ayah and surah was revealed in Makkah. And the people to witness that were the sahaabah - Abu Bakr, Omar and etc. The sahaabah were the ones Allah swt was addressing and reminding.
This surah (Zalzalah) was revealed to remind them and to remind those after them something that is very important.
Remember that at the time when they were in Majmoo, the muslims were facing severe suffering, and torture. It was at this time when Muhammad had come out, openly and publicly on mount Safa, and said to the people:
“Oh people of Makkah if I said to you, that behind me is an army coming to invade you, would you believe me?”
And the people declared “yes! You have always spoken the truth, you are al amin”.
But when he [saw] continued to tell them that he was the messenger of Allah, and that there was nobody worthy of worship except him, did the people turn their backs, and his uncle Abu Lahab said to Muhammad, that may your hands be destroyed.
How can it be, that one minute they call Muhammad the truthful, the trustworthy, and then the next minute they turn their backs, and curse him [saw], and reject him? They continued to attack him, calling him majnoon, a lunatic, a liar just because he [saw] called for La illaha Illallah.
Then Allah swt revealed to reassure him [saw]:
مَا أَنتَ بِنِعْمَةِ رَبِّكَ بِمَجْنُونٍ
“You are not by the mercy of your lord mad or possessed.”
[Al Qalam 68:2]
So yes, they did face a time of hardship and rejection. The people refused to acknowledge them.
Look to the story of Bilal - how he was tortured for embracing Islaam.
He was beaten and tortured, in the hot desert, lying on the hot sand - heat from the sun which will burn you. Not only that, but they poured boiling oil on his body in the middle of this hot desert. The rock on his chest was not only that he faced as many say. But he was in this position, this torturing position for days.
Look to the story of Amaar bin Yasser - how he too was tortured and lashed in the hot desert.
In fact they lashed him so much, that even when he died, the marks remained on his back. When they looked to his body when he passed away they said that you could still see the signs of torture in Makkah.
Amaar bin Yasser was the one who saw his own mother die in front of his own eyes. His father was thrown into a well and killed.
And we have Khabaab - who was killed for refusing to compromise.
Why did they face such extreme hardships, which are totally unbearable? Simply because they refused to reject the kalimaah La illaha Illallah!
They refused to compromise any hukm shar’ee, or leave any part of Islaam.
Indeed they did face true hardship. Nothing like the hardships we face today. Yes you may be arrested from time to time, you may have your passports taken away, you have been imprisoned for some years - but you haven’t witnessed the murder of your mother, the boiling oil over your chests, and the stabbings in your private parts.
So Allah swt revealed this Ayah:
زُلْزِلَتِ الْأَرْضُ زِلْزَالَهَاإِذَا
“When the earth is shaken to its utmost convulsion”
[Al-Zalzalah 99:1]
Allaah swt firstly attributed the earthquake as a property and belonging to the earth.
When we link another ayah with this, we see the lesson.
Allah swt says:
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ اتَّقُواْ اللّهَ حَقَّ تُقَاتِهِ وَلاَ تَمُوتُنَّ إِلاَّ وَأَنتُم مُّسْلِمُونَ
Oh you who believe! Fear Allaah as he should be feared, and die not except in the state of Islaam (ie - muslims)”
[Ale-Imran 3:102]
Imagine how the muslims in makkah at that time understood the words in this ayah. Imagine the hard impact it had on their hearts. They were being tortured, murdered, threatened with death, boycotted by the Quraish.
At that time, anyone who was Muslim was called extremist, lunatic, majnoon, fundamentalist. They would call the people not to listen to Muhammad, calling him insane, a magician. The propaganda and media was everywhere.
Imagine how low, and defeated the muslims felt at that time. Many muslims today, if they were faced with such hardship, would they not turn round and give up? Would they not leave it to the side and not bother with it, for it is too much to handle?
- But Allaah swt ordered them (and us) to fear him swt the way he deserves to be feared - meaning dare you to compromise anything. {This taqwa’ is not just to say you fear Allaah and do as you like, but you must fear Allaah as Abu Hurairah described:
“at taqwa is like walking through a thorny path, taking care so that you don’t touch a thorn by mistake”}
Yet Allaah swt ordered them, that if they are to die, they are to die as muslims only!
And when Amaar bin Yasser was broken completely physically and mentally - he rejected Muhammad in order to be left alone. Due to duress he said a word of kufr - and when he went to Muhammad [saw] he was weeping and crying for saying this one word. And Allaah revealed the ayah:
“Whoever disbelieves except the one under duress whilst his heart was full of imaan will be punished”
Muhammad [saw] testified that Amaar bin Yasser was full of imaan from head to toe. They were the sahaabah.
The sahaabah were those who did not want to compromise an inch of their deen. They did not want to die, except that they were muslim - they did not want to die on the kufr, the nifaaq, the jahl, the munkar. In fact they wanted to die on the tawheed, on the kalimat-tul laa illaha Illallah, they wanted to die as muslims only. They wanted to fear Allaah the way he swt deserves to be feared.
These ayath were revealed to warn us that we must not give up at a time of crisis. He swt warned us that just because there is war in Iraq, don’t leave your deen, joining the Americans and British army, don’t ally with them and start to say to the people that there is no jihad, and that the jihad is fithna’.
Don’t start to say that we are living in Dar ul Islaam and hence we are obliged to obey the taaghouthi rulers. Don’t start to say to the people that the mujahideen are khawaarij, and the tawagheeth are heroes. Don’t become 007 just because of the small hardship you face.
We must be like the sahaabah.
- When Allaah says go out openly publicly calling for the deen of al Islaam, go!
- When Allaah says go to jihad, go!
- When Allaah says fear Me, as I deserve to be feared - fear him!
- When Allaah says rise against the kufr, nifaaq, jahl - rise!
We cannot stand back ignoring the calls of Allaah. Rather we must act the minute we hear the call as the sahaabah did. When Allaah orders us, we say Samehna’ wa Atha’na - that we hear and obey. There is no need to make excuses saying, that the kufaar have an upper hand, that we have no strength, that we have no covenant.
If the kufaar have an upper hand, you must fight that upper hand till you have the upper hand. If you have no strength, you must try your best to convert your weakness to become strong, and if you believe that you have no covenant, instead of becoming 007, you must leave the place to a area where you are safe and do not need to become 007.
This is exactly what the sahaabah did.
The sahaabah were tortured but they never compromised
The sahaabah were killed yet they never compromised
The sahaabah were lashed but they never compromised
Bilal was killed, yet he never gave up in saying Ahadun Ahad, Ahadun Ahad (- until Abu Bakr as-siddique came and freed him from Umayyah bin Khalaf.)
- Why? Because they feared none but Allaah!
So Allaah swt warned the sahaabah and those after the sahaabah (ie ourselves), that whatever hardship and crisis you face today is nothing.
Therefore we must never let the shaytaan come to us and weaken our imaan more, so that we start to commit sin, we start to disobey Allaah and we start to forget how we used to fear Allaah at the time of ease.
It’s almost natural for us to fear Allaah in falling into the haraam at the time of ease - but when we are faced with the smallest of small hardships, we forget Allaah. And possibly we end up like MCB - who have completely sold their deen for the ease of funds and so-called masajids.
The terms Allaah swt used in this ayah, are immeasurable. In fact it is so great that everything from inside will come out.
Allaah swt said:
وَأَخْرَجَتِ الْأَرْضُ أَثْقَالَهَا
“And the earth throws out its burden (Athqaalaha)”
[Al-Zalzalah 99:2]
In the tafseer of Abdullah ibn Abaas of this ayah said: “ ‘Athqaalaha’ is all the graves.” Therefore all the people from all times will be raised without choice on that day.
However, the hour will only rise over the heads of the kufaar, or the faasiqeen or the faajireen, simply because Muhammad [saw] said:
“The hour will not rise except over the kuffar and the fujjar.”
As for the believers, a wind will pass them and take their soul like they sneezed.
Further, Allaah swt says:
وَقَالَ الْإِنسَانُ مَا لَهَا
يَوْمَئِذٍ تُحَدِّثُ أَخْبَارَهَا
“And man will ask, ‘What is going on?’
The earth will speak out all the news”
[Al-Zalzalah 99:3-4]
Allaah swt declares that on this day, at this moment will the souls ask what’s going on, from there will the earth speak against their bad deeds.
When Tony ruled by kufr, and Ahmad obeyed him - the earth will speak out and say ‘Ahmad walked on my back whilst obeying Tony’
When a woman and man fornicates - the earth will speak out and say ‘they feared none, and fornicated on my back’
When the thief took the property which did not belong to him or her - the earth will speak out.
And when the Muslim ummah has been attacked by the kufaar - the earth will speak out, that the rest sat there and did nothing.
It will be a time where no soul would feel comfortable - a time very difficult.
When the earth testifies all the good and bad, the hadith states that it will then report it all the Allaah swt.
Allaah swt said:
بِأَنَّ رَبَّكَ أَوْحَى لَهَا
“Because Allaah ordered it (the earth)”
[Zalzalah 99:5]
The earth submits to non but Allaah, and on that day it will be ordered to speak out.
In the tafseer of this ayah it states that “all the stones and all the inanimate things will speak out”.
Allaah swt said in Surah Fussilat ayah 11:
“…and he said to it (the earth): ‘Come together willingly or unwillingly.’ They said: ‘We do come (together), in willing obedience.’ ”
And further on into the surah, Allaah swt says:
يَوْمَئِذٍ يَصْدُرُ النَّاسُ أَشْتَاتًا لِّيُرَوْا أَعْمَالَهُمْ
“At that time people will come out in groups to be shown their deeds.”
[Al-Zalzalah 99:6]
On that day, man will be risen with those whom he was with on earth.
If he was a man who was with the musrikeen - he will be risen with them.
If he was a man who was with the Labour Party - he will be risen with them.
And similarly, if he was a man with the muslims, the mujahideen, and the sincere da’ees - he will be risen with them.
If he loves Islaam, loves Muhammad, loves the sahaabah - he will be risen with them.
Abdullah ibn Abaas said “Allaah will take all the people as delegations. And will drag the kufaar to hellfire (as if) they were thirsty and hungry (for it).”
The kufaar will say, that ‘we deserve it, if only they had listened and obeyed they would not have been here”.
They would start to say, we thought we were correct and the muslims were wrong - if only we had listened to them, and allied with them rather then having fought them.
And Insha’Allaah, George Bush will say ‘Indeed the world was divided into two camps, had it only been that I had been in the camp of Islaam rather then my camp of Kufr and failure.’
And Insha’Allaah every kaafir, every munafiq, every mushrik will see their failure, their hardest failure on the day.
When Allaah swt said:
“…to see all their own deeds”
[Al-Zalzalah 99:6]
We know that the deeds are the physical and the verbal actions. And they are of two types - the good and the bad.
On this day your books will be opened, and your cassettes and videos will be played - and you will have to face it on the day of judgement.
Allaah swt says:
فَمَن يَعْمَلْ مِثْقَالَ ذَرَّةٍ خَيْرًا يَرَهُ
“Whoever has done a small atoms weight of good, shall see it.”
[Al-Zalzalah 99:7]
The good is not what our desires say is good, rather it is what Allaah swt says is good - regardless of what the majority think today.
And finally, Allaah swt says in the surah:
وَمَن يَعْمَلْ مِثْقَالَ ذَرَّةٍ شَرًّا يَرَهُ
“Whoever does an atoms weight of bad, shall see it.”
[Al-Zalzalah 99:8]
And similarly the bad is not that which the majority say, or the laws within your desires say - it is what Allaah swt says it is.
And in another ayah Allaah swt states,
“By your lord, I am going to account all of what you used to do…”
And when Allaah swt makes an oath, we are to be shaken so hard that we loose consciousness. We should fear him so much. When we hear the oath, we should be able to see each others faces go white out of fear, we should be gob-smacked! Because Allaah swt never breaks his oath - and it will be something big!
Musab Ibn Umair
Musab ibn Umayr was born and grew up in the lap of affluence and luxury. His rich parents lavished a great deal of care and attention on him. He wore the most expensive clothes and the most stylish shoes of his time. Yemeni shoes were then considered to be very elegant and it was his privilege to have the very best of these.
As a youth he was admired by the Quraish not only for his good looks and style but for his intelligence. His elegant bearing and keen mind endeared him to the Makkan nobility among whom he moved with ease. Although still young, he had the privilege of attending Quraish meetings and gatherings. He was thus in a position to know the issues which concerned the Makkans and what their attitudes and strategies were.
Among Makkans there was a sudden outburst of excitement and concern as Muhammad, known as al-Amin (the Trustworthy), emerged saying that God had sent him as a bearer of good tidings and as a warner. He warned the Quraish of terrible chastisement if they did not turn to the worship and obedience of God and he spoke of Divine rewards for the righteous. The whole of Makkah buzzed with talk of these claims. The vulnerable Quraish leaders thought of ways of silencing Muhammad. When ridicule and persuasion did not work, they embarked on a campaign of harassment and persecution.
Musab learnt that Muhammad and those who believed in his message were gathering in a house near the hill of as-Safa to evade Quraish harassment. This was the house of al-Arqam. To satisfy his curiosity, Musab proceeded to the house undeterred by the know ledge of Quraish hostility. There he met the Prophet teaching his small band of companions, reciting the verses of the Quran to them and performing Salât with them in submission to God, the Great, the Most High.
The Prophet welcomed him, and with his noble hand tenderly touched Musab's heart as it throbbed with excitement. A deep feeling of tranquility came over him. Musab was totally overwhelmed by what he had seen and heard. The words of the Quran had made a deep and immediate impression on him.
In this first meeting with the Prophet, the young and decisive Musab declared his acceptance of Islam. It was a historic moment. The keen mind of Musab, his tenacious will and determination, his eloquence and his beautiful character were now in the service of Islam and would help change the course of men's destinies and of history.
On accepting Islam Musab had one major concern his mother. Her name was Khunnas bint Malik. She was a woman of extraordinary power. She had a dominant personality and could easily arouse fear and terror. When Musab became a Muslim, the only power on earth he might have feared was his mother. All the powerful nobles of Makkah and their attachment to pagan customs and traditions were of little consequence to him. Having his mother as an opponent, however, could not be taken lightly.
Musab thought quickly. He decided that he should conceal his acceptance of Islam until such time as a solution should come from God. He continued to frequent the House of al-Arqam and sit in the company of the Prophet. He felt serene in his new faith and by keeping all indications of his acceptance of Islam away from her, he managed to stave off his mother's wrath, but not for long.
It was difficult during those days to keep anything secret in Makkah for long. The eyes and ears of the Quraish were on every road. Behind every footstep imprinted in the soft and burning sand was a Quraish informer. Before long, Musab was seen as he quietly entered the House of al-Arqam, by someone called Uthman ibn Talhah.
At another time, Uthman saw Musab praying in the same manner as Muhammad prayed. The conclusion was obvious.
As winds in a storm, the devastating news of Musab's acceptance of Islam spread among the Quraish and eventually reached his mother.
Musab stood before his mother, his clan and the Quraish nobility who had all gathered to find out what he had done and what he had to say for himself.
With a certain humility and calm confidence, Musab acknowledged that he had become a Muslim and no doubt he explained his reasons for so doing. He then recited some verses of the Quran - verses which had cleansed the hearts of the believers and brought them back to the natural religion of God. Though only few in number, their hearts were now filled with wisdom, honour, justice and courage.
As Musab's mother listened to her son on whom she had lavished so much care and affection, she became increasingly incensed. She felt like silencing him with one terrible blow. But the hand which shot out like an arrow staggered and faltered before the light which radiated from Musab's serene face. Perhaps, it was her mother's love which restrained her from actually beating him, but still she felt she had to do something to avenge the gods which her son had forsaken. The solution she decided upon was far worse for Musab than a few blows could ever have been. She had Musab taken to a far corner of the house. There he was firmly bound and tethered. He had become a prisoner in his own home.
For a long time, Musab remained tied and confined under the watchful eyes of guards whom his mother had placed over him to prevent him from any further contact with Muhammad and his faith. Despite his ordeal, Musab did not waver. He must have had news of how other Muslims were being harassed and tortured by the idolaters. For him, as for many other Muslims, life in Makkah was becoming more and more intolerable. Eventually he heard that a group of Muslims were preparing secretly to migrate to Abyssinia to seek refuge and relief. His immediate thoughts were how to escape from his prison and join them. At the first opportunity, when his mother and his warders were off-guard, he managed to slip away quietly. Then with utmost haste he joined the other refugee s and before long they sailed together across the Red Sea to Africa.
Although the Muslims enjoyed peace and security in the land of the Negus, they longed to be in Makkah in the company of the noble Prophet. So when a report reached Abyssinia that the conditions of the Muslims in Makkah had improved, Musab was among the first to return to Makkah. The report was in fact false and Musab once again left for Abyssinia.
Whether he was in Makkah or Abyssinia, Musab remained strong in his new faith and his main concern was to make his life worthy of his Creator.
When Musab returned to Makkah again, his mother made a last attempt to gain control of him and threatened to have him tied up again and confined. Musab swore that if she were to do that, he would kill everyone who helped her. She knew very well that he would carry out this threat for she saw the iron determination he now had.
Separation was inevitable. When the moment came, it was sad for both mother and son but it revealed a strong Persistence in kufr on the part of the mother and an even greater persistence in iman on the part of the son. As she threw him out of her house and cut him off from all the material comforts she used to lavish on him, she said:
"Go to your own business. I am not prepared to be a mother to you."
Musab went up close to her and said:
"Mother, I advise you sincerely. I am concerned about you. Do testify that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is His servant and His Messenger."
"I swear by the shooting stars, I shall not enter your religion even if my opinion is ridiculed and my mind becomes impotent," she insisted.
Musab thus left her home and the luxury and comforts he used to enjoy. The elegant, well-dressed youth would henceforth be seen only in the coarsest of attire. He now had more important concerns. He was determined to use his talents and energies in acquiring knowledge and in serving God and His Prophet.
One day, several years later, Musab came upon a gathering of Muslims sitting around the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. They bowed their heads and lowered their gaze when they saw Musab, and some were even moved to tears. This was because his jalbab was old and in tatters and they were immediately taken back to the days before his acceptance of Islam when he was a model of sartorial elegance. The Prophet looked at Musab, smiled gracefully and said:
"I have seen this Musab with his parents in Makkah. They lavished care and attention on him and gave him all comforts. There was no Quraish youth like him. Then he left all that seeking the pleasure of God and devoting himself to the service of His Prophet."
The Prophet then went on to say:
"There will come a time when God will grant you victory over Persia and Byzantium. You would have one dress in the morning and another in the evening and you would eat out of one dish in the morning and another in the evening."
In other words, the Prophet predicted that the Muslims would become rich and powerful and that they would have material goods in plenty. The companions sitting around asked the Prophet:
"O Messenger of Allah, are we in a better situation in these times or would we be better off then?"
He replied: "You are rather better off now than you would be then. If you knew of the world what I know you would certainly not be so much concerned with it."
On another occasion, the Prophet talked in a similar vein to his companions and asked them how they would be if they could have one suit of clothes in the morning and another in the evening and even have enough material to put curtains in their houses just as the Kabah was fully covered. The companions replied that they would then be in a better situation because they would then have sufficient sustenance and would be free for ibaadah (worship). The Prophet however told them that they were indeed better off as they were.
After about ten years of inviting people to Islam, most of Makkah still remained hostile. The noble Prophet then went to Taif seeking new adherents to the faith. He was repulsed and chased out of the city. The future of Islam looked bleak.
It was just after this that the Prophet chose Musab to be his "ambassador" to Yathrib to teach a small group of believers who had come to pledge allegiance to Islam and prepare Madinah for the day of the great Hijrah.
Musab was chosen above companions who were older than he or were more closely related to the Prophet or who appeared to possess greater prestige. No doubt Musab was chosen for this task because of his noble character, his fine manners and his sharp intellect. His knowledge of the Quran and his ability to recite it beautifully and movingly was also an important consideration.
Musab understood his mission well. He knew that he was on a sacred mission. to invite people to God and the straight path of Islam and to prepare what was to be the territorial base for the young and struggling Muslim community.
He entered Madinah as a guest of Sad ibn Zurarah of the Khazraj tribe. Together they went to people, to their homes and their gatherings, telling them about the Prophet, explaining Islam to them and reciting the Quran. Through the grace of God, many accepted Islam. This was especially pleasing to Musab but profoundly alarming to many leaders of Yathribite society.
Once Musab and Sa’ad were sitting near a well in an orchard of the Zafar clan. With them were a number of new Muslims and others who were interested in Islam. A powerful notable of the city, Usayd ibn Khudayr, came up brandishing a spear. He was livid with rage. Sad ibn Zararah saw him and told Musab:
"This is a chieftain of his people. May God place truth in his heart."
"If he sits down, I will speak to him," replied Musab, displaying all the calm and tact of a great da‘ee.
The angry Usayd shouted abuse and threatened Musab and his host.
"Why have you both come to us to corrupt the weak among us? Keep away from us if you want to stay alive."
Musab smiled a warm and friendly smile and said to Usayd:
"Won't you sit down and listen? If you are pleased and satisfied with our mission. accept it and if you dislike it we would stop telling you what you dislike and leave."
"That's reasonable," said Usayd and, sticking his spear in the ground, sat down. Musab was not compelling him to do anything. He was not denouncing him. He was merely inviting him to listen. If he was satisfied, well and good. If not, then Musab would leave his district and his clan without any fuss and go to another district.
Musab began telling him about Islam and recited the Quran to him. Even before Usayd spoke, it was clear from his face, now radiant and expectant, that faith had entered his heart.
He said:
"How beautiful are these words and how true! What does a person do if he wants to enter this religion?"
"Have a bath, purify yourself and your clothes. Then utter the testimony of Truth (Shahadah), and perform Salât“.
Usayd left the gathering and was absent for only a short while. He returned and testified that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah. He then prayed two rakats and said:
"After me, there is a man who if he follows you, everyone of his people will follow him. I shall send him to you now. He is 'Sad ibn Muadh."
Sad ibn Muadh came and listened to Musab. He was convinced and satisfied and declared his submission to God. He was followed by another important Yathribite, Sad ibn Ubaadah. Before long, the people of Yathrib were all in a flurry, asking one another.
"If Usayd ibn Khudayr, Sad ibn Muadh and Sad ibn Ubaadah have accepted the new religion, how can we not follow? Let's go to Musab and believe with him. They say that truth emanates from his lips."
The first ambassador of the Prophet, peace be on him, was thus supremely successful. The Prophet had chosen well. Men and women, the young and the old, the powerful and the weak accepted Islam at his hands. The course of Yathribite history had been changed forever. The way was being prepared for the great Hijrah. Yathrib was soon to become the center and the base for the Islamic state and the flourishing of Islam around the world.
Less than a year after his arrival in Yathrib, Musab returned to Makkah. It was again in the season of pilgrimage. With him was a group of seventy-five Muslims from Madinah. Again at Aqabah, near Mina, they met the Prophet. There they solemnly undertook to defend the Prophet at all cost. Should they remain firm in their faith, their reward, said the Prophet, would be nothing less than Paradise. This second Bay’ah or pledge which the Muslims of Yathrib made came to be called the Pledge of War.
From then on events moved swiftly. Shortly after the Pledge, the Prophet directed his persecuted followers to migrate to Yathrib where the new Muslims or Ansar (Helpers) had shown their willingness to give asylum and extend their protection to the afflicted Muslims. The first of the Prophet's companions to arrive in Madinah were Musab ibn Umayr and the blind Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum. Abdullah also recited the Quran beautifully and according to one of the Ansar, both Musab and Abdullah recited the Quran for the people of Yathrib.
Musab continued to play a major role in the building of the new community. The next momentous situation in which we meet him was during the great Battle of Badr. After the battle was over, the Quraish prisoners of war were brought to the Prophet who assigned them to the custody of individual Muslims.
"Treat them well," he instructed.
Among the prisoners was Abu Aziz ibn Umayr, the brother of Musab. Abu Aziz related what happened:
"I was among a group of Ansar...Whenever they had lunch or dinner they would give me bread and dates to eat in obedience to the Prophet's instructions to them to treat us well“.
"My brother, Musab ibn Umayr, passed by me and said to the man from the Ansar who was holding me prisoner“:
'Tie him firmly... His mother is a woman of great wealth and maybe she would ransom him for you.'"
Abu Aziz could not believe his ears. Astonished, he turned to Musab and asked:
"My brother, is this your instruction concerning me?"
"He is my brother, not you," replied Musab thus affirming that in the battle between iman and kufr, the bonds of faith were stronger than the ties of kinship.
At the Battle of Uhud, the Prophet called upon Musab, now well-known as Musab al-Khayr (the Good), to carry the Muslim standard. At the beginning of the battle, the Muslims seemed to be gaining the upper hand. A group of Muslims then went against the orders of the Prophet and deserted their positions. The Mushrikeen forces rallied again and launched a counterattack. Their main objective, as they cut through the Muslim forces, was to get to the noble Prophet.
Musab realized the great danger facing the Prophet. He raised the standard high and shouted the takbir. With the standard in one hand and his sword in the other, he plunged into the Quraish forces. The odds were against him. A Quraish horseman moved in close and severed his right hand. Musab was heard to repeat the words: "Muhammad is only a Messenger. Messengers have passed away before him," showing that however great his attachment was to the Prophet himself, his struggle above all was for the sake of God and for making His word supreme. His left hand was then severed also and as he held the standard between the stumps of his arms, to console himself he repeated: "Muhammad is only a Messenger of God. Messengers have passed away before him." Musab was then hit by a spear. He fell and the standard fell. The words he repeated, every time he was struck were later revealed to the Prophet and completed, and became part of the Quran.
After the battle, the Prophet and his companions went through the battlefield, bidding farewell to the martyrs. When they came to Musab's body, tears flowed. Khabbah related that they could not find any cloth with which to shroud Musab's body, except his own garment. When they covered his head with it, his legs showed and when his legs were covered, his head was exposed and the Prophet instructed:
"Place the garment over his head and cover his feet and legs with the leaves of the idhkhir (rue) plant."
The Prophet felt deep pain and sorrow at the number of his companions who were killed at the Battle of Uhud. These included his uncle Hamzah whose body was horribly mutilated. But it was over the body of Musab that the Prophet stood, with great emotion. He remembered Musab as he first saw him in Makkah, stylish and elegant, and then looked at the short burdah which was now the only garment he possessed and he recited the verse of the Quran:
"Among the believers are men who have been true to what they have pledged to God."
The Prophet then cast his tender eyes over the battle field on which lay the dead companions of Musab and said:
"The Messenger of God testifies that you are martyrs in the sight of God on the day of Qiyamah."
Then turning to the living companions around him he said:
"O People! Visit them, send peace on them for, by Him in whose hand is my soul, any Muslim who sends peace on them until the day of Qiyamah, they would return the salutation of peace."
“Assalamu alayka yaa Musab...
Assalamu alaykum, ma'shar ash-shudhadaa.
Assalamu alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu“.
Peace be on you, O Musab...
Peace be on you all, O martyrs. .
Peace be on you and the mercy and blessings of God.
Musab ibn Umayr was born and grew up in the lap of affluence and luxury. His rich parents lavished a great deal of care and attention on him. He wore the most expensive clothes and the most stylish shoes of his time. Yemeni shoes were then considered to be very elegant and it was his privilege to have the very best of these.
As a youth he was admired by the Quraish not only for his good looks and style but for his intelligence. His elegant bearing and keen mind endeared him to the Makkan nobility among whom he moved with ease. Although still young, he had the privilege of attending Quraish meetings and gatherings. He was thus in a position to know the issues which concerned the Makkans and what their attitudes and strategies were.
Among Makkans there was a sudden outburst of excitement and concern as Muhammad, known as al-Amin (the Trustworthy), emerged saying that God had sent him as a bearer of good tidings and as a warner. He warned the Quraish of terrible chastisement if they did not turn to the worship and obedience of God and he spoke of Divine rewards for the righteous. The whole of Makkah buzzed with talk of these claims. The vulnerable Quraish leaders thought of ways of silencing Muhammad. When ridicule and persuasion did not work, they embarked on a campaign of harassment and persecution.
Musab learnt that Muhammad and those who believed in his message were gathering in a house near the hill of as-Safa to evade Quraish harassment. This was the house of al-Arqam. To satisfy his curiosity, Musab proceeded to the house undeterred by the know ledge of Quraish hostility. There he met the Prophet teaching his small band of companions, reciting the verses of the Quran to them and performing Salât with them in submission to God, the Great, the Most High.
The Prophet welcomed him, and with his noble hand tenderly touched Musab's heart as it throbbed with excitement. A deep feeling of tranquility came over him. Musab was totally overwhelmed by what he had seen and heard. The words of the Quran had made a deep and immediate impression on him.
In this first meeting with the Prophet, the young and decisive Musab declared his acceptance of Islam. It was a historic moment. The keen mind of Musab, his tenacious will and determination, his eloquence and his beautiful character were now in the service of Islam and would help change the course of men's destinies and of history.
On accepting Islam Musab had one major concern his mother. Her name was Khunnas bint Malik. She was a woman of extraordinary power. She had a dominant personality and could easily arouse fear and terror. When Musab became a Muslim, the only power on earth he might have feared was his mother. All the powerful nobles of Makkah and their attachment to pagan customs and traditions were of little consequence to him. Having his mother as an opponent, however, could not be taken lightly.
Musab thought quickly. He decided that he should conceal his acceptance of Islam until such time as a solution should come from God. He continued to frequent the House of al-Arqam and sit in the company of the Prophet. He felt serene in his new faith and by keeping all indications of his acceptance of Islam away from her, he managed to stave off his mother's wrath, but not for long.
It was difficult during those days to keep anything secret in Makkah for long. The eyes and ears of the Quraish were on every road. Behind every footstep imprinted in the soft and burning sand was a Quraish informer. Before long, Musab was seen as he quietly entered the House of al-Arqam, by someone called Uthman ibn Talhah.
At another time, Uthman saw Musab praying in the same manner as Muhammad prayed. The conclusion was obvious.
As winds in a storm, the devastating news of Musab's acceptance of Islam spread among the Quraish and eventually reached his mother.
Musab stood before his mother, his clan and the Quraish nobility who had all gathered to find out what he had done and what he had to say for himself.
With a certain humility and calm confidence, Musab acknowledged that he had become a Muslim and no doubt he explained his reasons for so doing. He then recited some verses of the Quran - verses which had cleansed the hearts of the believers and brought them back to the natural religion of God. Though only few in number, their hearts were now filled with wisdom, honour, justice and courage.
As Musab's mother listened to her son on whom she had lavished so much care and affection, she became increasingly incensed. She felt like silencing him with one terrible blow. But the hand which shot out like an arrow staggered and faltered before the light which radiated from Musab's serene face. Perhaps, it was her mother's love which restrained her from actually beating him, but still she felt she had to do something to avenge the gods which her son had forsaken. The solution she decided upon was far worse for Musab than a few blows could ever have been. She had Musab taken to a far corner of the house. There he was firmly bound and tethered. He had become a prisoner in his own home.
For a long time, Musab remained tied and confined under the watchful eyes of guards whom his mother had placed over him to prevent him from any further contact with Muhammad and his faith. Despite his ordeal, Musab did not waver. He must have had news of how other Muslims were being harassed and tortured by the idolaters. For him, as for many other Muslims, life in Makkah was becoming more and more intolerable. Eventually he heard that a group of Muslims were preparing secretly to migrate to Abyssinia to seek refuge and relief. His immediate thoughts were how to escape from his prison and join them. At the first opportunity, when his mother and his warders were off-guard, he managed to slip away quietly. Then with utmost haste he joined the other refugee s and before long they sailed together across the Red Sea to Africa.
Although the Muslims enjoyed peace and security in the land of the Negus, they longed to be in Makkah in the company of the noble Prophet. So when a report reached Abyssinia that the conditions of the Muslims in Makkah had improved, Musab was among the first to return to Makkah. The report was in fact false and Musab once again left for Abyssinia.
Whether he was in Makkah or Abyssinia, Musab remained strong in his new faith and his main concern was to make his life worthy of his Creator.
When Musab returned to Makkah again, his mother made a last attempt to gain control of him and threatened to have him tied up again and confined. Musab swore that if she were to do that, he would kill everyone who helped her. She knew very well that he would carry out this threat for she saw the iron determination he now had.
Separation was inevitable. When the moment came, it was sad for both mother and son but it revealed a strong Persistence in kufr on the part of the mother and an even greater persistence in iman on the part of the son. As she threw him out of her house and cut him off from all the material comforts she used to lavish on him, she said:
"Go to your own business. I am not prepared to be a mother to you."
Musab went up close to her and said:
"Mother, I advise you sincerely. I am concerned about you. Do testify that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is His servant and His Messenger."
"I swear by the shooting stars, I shall not enter your religion even if my opinion is ridiculed and my mind becomes impotent," she insisted.
Musab thus left her home and the luxury and comforts he used to enjoy. The elegant, well-dressed youth would henceforth be seen only in the coarsest of attire. He now had more important concerns. He was determined to use his talents and energies in acquiring knowledge and in serving God and His Prophet.
One day, several years later, Musab came upon a gathering of Muslims sitting around the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. They bowed their heads and lowered their gaze when they saw Musab, and some were even moved to tears. This was because his jalbab was old and in tatters and they were immediately taken back to the days before his acceptance of Islam when he was a model of sartorial elegance. The Prophet looked at Musab, smiled gracefully and said:
"I have seen this Musab with his parents in Makkah. They lavished care and attention on him and gave him all comforts. There was no Quraish youth like him. Then he left all that seeking the pleasure of God and devoting himself to the service of His Prophet."
The Prophet then went on to say:
"There will come a time when God will grant you victory over Persia and Byzantium. You would have one dress in the morning and another in the evening and you would eat out of one dish in the morning and another in the evening."
In other words, the Prophet predicted that the Muslims would become rich and powerful and that they would have material goods in plenty. The companions sitting around asked the Prophet:
"O Messenger of Allah, are we in a better situation in these times or would we be better off then?"
He replied: "You are rather better off now than you would be then. If you knew of the world what I know you would certainly not be so much concerned with it."
On another occasion, the Prophet talked in a similar vein to his companions and asked them how they would be if they could have one suit of clothes in the morning and another in the evening and even have enough material to put curtains in their houses just as the Kabah was fully covered. The companions replied that they would then be in a better situation because they would then have sufficient sustenance and would be free for ibaadah (worship). The Prophet however told them that they were indeed better off as they were.
After about ten years of inviting people to Islam, most of Makkah still remained hostile. The noble Prophet then went to Taif seeking new adherents to the faith. He was repulsed and chased out of the city. The future of Islam looked bleak.
It was just after this that the Prophet chose Musab to be his "ambassador" to Yathrib to teach a small group of believers who had come to pledge allegiance to Islam and prepare Madinah for the day of the great Hijrah.
Musab was chosen above companions who were older than he or were more closely related to the Prophet or who appeared to possess greater prestige. No doubt Musab was chosen for this task because of his noble character, his fine manners and his sharp intellect. His knowledge of the Quran and his ability to recite it beautifully and movingly was also an important consideration.
Musab understood his mission well. He knew that he was on a sacred mission. to invite people to God and the straight path of Islam and to prepare what was to be the territorial base for the young and struggling Muslim community.
He entered Madinah as a guest of Sad ibn Zurarah of the Khazraj tribe. Together they went to people, to their homes and their gatherings, telling them about the Prophet, explaining Islam to them and reciting the Quran. Through the grace of God, many accepted Islam. This was especially pleasing to Musab but profoundly alarming to many leaders of Yathribite society.
Once Musab and Sa’ad were sitting near a well in an orchard of the Zafar clan. With them were a number of new Muslims and others who were interested in Islam. A powerful notable of the city, Usayd ibn Khudayr, came up brandishing a spear. He was livid with rage. Sad ibn Zararah saw him and told Musab:
"This is a chieftain of his people. May God place truth in his heart."
"If he sits down, I will speak to him," replied Musab, displaying all the calm and tact of a great da‘ee.
The angry Usayd shouted abuse and threatened Musab and his host.
"Why have you both come to us to corrupt the weak among us? Keep away from us if you want to stay alive."
Musab smiled a warm and friendly smile and said to Usayd:
"Won't you sit down and listen? If you are pleased and satisfied with our mission. accept it and if you dislike it we would stop telling you what you dislike and leave."
"That's reasonable," said Usayd and, sticking his spear in the ground, sat down. Musab was not compelling him to do anything. He was not denouncing him. He was merely inviting him to listen. If he was satisfied, well and good. If not, then Musab would leave his district and his clan without any fuss and go to another district.
Musab began telling him about Islam and recited the Quran to him. Even before Usayd spoke, it was clear from his face, now radiant and expectant, that faith had entered his heart.
He said:
"How beautiful are these words and how true! What does a person do if he wants to enter this religion?"
"Have a bath, purify yourself and your clothes. Then utter the testimony of Truth (Shahadah), and perform Salât“.
Usayd left the gathering and was absent for only a short while. He returned and testified that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah. He then prayed two rakats and said:
"After me, there is a man who if he follows you, everyone of his people will follow him. I shall send him to you now. He is 'Sad ibn Muadh."
Sad ibn Muadh came and listened to Musab. He was convinced and satisfied and declared his submission to God. He was followed by another important Yathribite, Sad ibn Ubaadah. Before long, the people of Yathrib were all in a flurry, asking one another.
"If Usayd ibn Khudayr, Sad ibn Muadh and Sad ibn Ubaadah have accepted the new religion, how can we not follow? Let's go to Musab and believe with him. They say that truth emanates from his lips."
The first ambassador of the Prophet, peace be on him, was thus supremely successful. The Prophet had chosen well. Men and women, the young and the old, the powerful and the weak accepted Islam at his hands. The course of Yathribite history had been changed forever. The way was being prepared for the great Hijrah. Yathrib was soon to become the center and the base for the Islamic state and the flourishing of Islam around the world.
Less than a year after his arrival in Yathrib, Musab returned to Makkah. It was again in the season of pilgrimage. With him was a group of seventy-five Muslims from Madinah. Again at Aqabah, near Mina, they met the Prophet. There they solemnly undertook to defend the Prophet at all cost. Should they remain firm in their faith, their reward, said the Prophet, would be nothing less than Paradise. This second Bay’ah or pledge which the Muslims of Yathrib made came to be called the Pledge of War.
From then on events moved swiftly. Shortly after the Pledge, the Prophet directed his persecuted followers to migrate to Yathrib where the new Muslims or Ansar (Helpers) had shown their willingness to give asylum and extend their protection to the afflicted Muslims. The first of the Prophet's companions to arrive in Madinah were Musab ibn Umayr and the blind Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum. Abdullah also recited the Quran beautifully and according to one of the Ansar, both Musab and Abdullah recited the Quran for the people of Yathrib.
Musab continued to play a major role in the building of the new community. The next momentous situation in which we meet him was during the great Battle of Badr. After the battle was over, the Quraish prisoners of war were brought to the Prophet who assigned them to the custody of individual Muslims.
"Treat them well," he instructed.
Among the prisoners was Abu Aziz ibn Umayr, the brother of Musab. Abu Aziz related what happened:
"I was among a group of Ansar...Whenever they had lunch or dinner they would give me bread and dates to eat in obedience to the Prophet's instructions to them to treat us well“.
"My brother, Musab ibn Umayr, passed by me and said to the man from the Ansar who was holding me prisoner“:
'Tie him firmly... His mother is a woman of great wealth and maybe she would ransom him for you.'"
Abu Aziz could not believe his ears. Astonished, he turned to Musab and asked:
"My brother, is this your instruction concerning me?"
"He is my brother, not you," replied Musab thus affirming that in the battle between iman and kufr, the bonds of faith were stronger than the ties of kinship.
At the Battle of Uhud, the Prophet called upon Musab, now well-known as Musab al-Khayr (the Good), to carry the Muslim standard. At the beginning of the battle, the Muslims seemed to be gaining the upper hand. A group of Muslims then went against the orders of the Prophet and deserted their positions. The Mushrikeen forces rallied again and launched a counterattack. Their main objective, as they cut through the Muslim forces, was to get to the noble Prophet.
Musab realized the great danger facing the Prophet. He raised the standard high and shouted the takbir. With the standard in one hand and his sword in the other, he plunged into the Quraish forces. The odds were against him. A Quraish horseman moved in close and severed his right hand. Musab was heard to repeat the words: "Muhammad is only a Messenger. Messengers have passed away before him," showing that however great his attachment was to the Prophet himself, his struggle above all was for the sake of God and for making His word supreme. His left hand was then severed also and as he held the standard between the stumps of his arms, to console himself he repeated: "Muhammad is only a Messenger of God. Messengers have passed away before him." Musab was then hit by a spear. He fell and the standard fell. The words he repeated, every time he was struck were later revealed to the Prophet and completed, and became part of the Quran.
After the battle, the Prophet and his companions went through the battlefield, bidding farewell to the martyrs. When they came to Musab's body, tears flowed. Khabbah related that they could not find any cloth with which to shroud Musab's body, except his own garment. When they covered his head with it, his legs showed and when his legs were covered, his head was exposed and the Prophet instructed:
"Place the garment over his head and cover his feet and legs with the leaves of the idhkhir (rue) plant."
The Prophet felt deep pain and sorrow at the number of his companions who were killed at the Battle of Uhud. These included his uncle Hamzah whose body was horribly mutilated. But it was over the body of Musab that the Prophet stood, with great emotion. He remembered Musab as he first saw him in Makkah, stylish and elegant, and then looked at the short burdah which was now the only garment he possessed and he recited the verse of the Quran:
"Among the believers are men who have been true to what they have pledged to God."
The Prophet then cast his tender eyes over the battle field on which lay the dead companions of Musab and said:
"The Messenger of God testifies that you are martyrs in the sight of God on the day of Qiyamah."
Then turning to the living companions around him he said:
"O People! Visit them, send peace on them for, by Him in whose hand is my soul, any Muslim who sends peace on them until the day of Qiyamah, they would return the salutation of peace."
“Assalamu alayka yaa Musab...
Assalamu alaykum, ma'shar ash-shudhadaa.
Assalamu alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu“.
Peace be on you, O Musab...
Peace be on you all, O martyrs. .
Peace be on you and the mercy and blessings of God.
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