Tawheed And Emaan Course

Bismillaah....

All Praise and glory be to Allaah [swt] Lord of the worlds and all that exists.

May the peace and blessings of Allaah [swt] be upon the Messenger Muhammad [saw] his family, his beloved companions [ra] and all those who follow them in truth. Ameen

"O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqun (the pious)."

 [EMQ - Al -Baqarah (2):183]

Sufyaan Ath-Thawree [rhm] said: "The excellence of knowledge is due only to the fact that it causes a person to fear and obey Allaah, otherwise it is just like anything else."
[Related by ibn Rajab]



Al-Hasan al-Basree [rhm] said: "Whoever learns something in the name of Allaah, seeking that which is with Him, he will win. And whoever learns something for other than Allaah, he will not reach the goal, nor will his acquired knowledge bring him closer to Allaah."
[Related by Ibn ul Jawzee]

Assalamu 'Alaikum Wa Rahmatullaahi Wa Barakaatuh

Dear Sisters.

Insha'Allah, this is a brand new course starting for sisters only Alhamdulillaah,

As you can see below is the Flyer for the course and the details which are:

The Course is starting on:

Wednesday 28th July 2010

It will be held in:

Harmony Hall, Truro Road, 

Walthamstow

E17 7BY

Time:

2-4pm Every Wednesday

Please Contact:

07930535070

SISTERS ONLY 

Insha'Allaah we all look forward to meeting you and studying through the blessed month of Ramadhan.

Wa'alaikum Assalam Wa Rahmatullaahi Wa Barakaatuh
xxx

Evidence that Music is Haram

Allaah [swt] said,
"And of mankind he who purchases idle talks to mislead (people) from the Path of Allah without knowledge, and takes it (the Path of Allah) by way of mockery, For such there will be a humiliating torment."
[EMQ - Luqmaan: 31:6].

Al-Wahidi [ra] along with other scholars of Tafsir (explaining the Qur'an), said that "Idle Talk" in this Ayah is singing. The following companions gave this Tafsir: Ibn Abbas, Ibn Masud, Mujahid and Ikrimah [ra] Ibn Masud [ra] said,
"By Allah, whom there is no God except Him, idle talk is singing."

The Messenger Muhammad [saw] said:
"From among my followers there will be some people who will consider illegal sexual intercourse, the wearing of silk, the drinking of alcoholic drinks and the use of musical instruments, as lawful. And there will be some people who will stay near the side of a mountain and in the evening their shepherd will come to them with their sheep and ask them for something, but they will say to him, 'Return to us tomorrow.' Allah will destroy them during the night and will let the mountain fall on them, and He will transform the rest of them into monkeys and pigs and they will remain so till the Day of Resurrection."
[Al-Bukhari Volume 7, Book 69, Number 494v].



This Hadith states that musical instruments are Haram, and there is no disagreement among the scholars on this. In his book, Ighathat Al-Lahfan,

Ibn Al-Qayyim [rhm] said,
"When the Messenger Muhammad [saw] said, 'render as lawful,' he meant that it was unlawful, then the people made it lawful."



Abu Hurairah [ra] narrated that the Messenger Muhammad [saw] said:
‘A group of this nation will be transformed into monkeys and swine." They said, "Do not they testify that there is no god except Allaah and that Muhammad is His Messenger?" He said, "Yes. And also they fast pray and perform Hajj " They said, "Then, what is their problem?" He said, "They use musical instruments, drums and female singers. (One day) they will go to sleep after a night of drinking and having fun, In the morning, they will be transformed (by Allah) into monkeys and swine."
[Ighathat Al-Lahfan].

"Their prayer at the House (Kaa'bah) was nothing but Muka'an and Tasdiyah."
[EMQ - Surah Al-Anfaal: 8:35].

Ibn Abbas, Ibn Umar, Atiyyah, Mujahid, Ad-Dhahh'ak, Al Hasan and Qataadah [ra] said that Muka'an means whistling, and that Tasdiyyah means clapping of hands.



What the Scholars say Regarding Music

Imam Ibn Taymiyyah [rhm] said, "Listening to music and sinful fun are among what strengthens the satanic ways the most. This is exactly what the disbeliever's used to do. Allaah [swt] said,


“And their prayer at the House (of Allah) was nothing but Muka’an and Tasdiyah.”[EMQ – Surah Al-Anfaal: 8:35]



Ibn Abbas, Ibn Umar and others [ra] said that Tasdiyyah is clapping of hands, and that Muka'an is whistling.
This was the way of the Mushrikeen and their way of worship. The Prophet [saw] and his companions [ra] worshipped Allaah [swt], according to His order, in their prayer, reading the Qur’an and Dhikr (remembrance of Allaah/ supplication).

It never occurred that the Messenger Muhammad [saw] and his companions [ra] gathered to listen to singing that is accompanied by clapping or using drums.

Imam Ibn Taymiyyah [rhm] also said regarding the person, whose habit is to listen to music,
"His state of emotions becomes less passionate when he hears the Qur’an. On the contrary, when he listens to instruments of the devil (music), he dances a lot. If the prayer is established, he either prays while sitting down or performs it as fast as when the roaster picks seeds. He dislikes listening to the Qur’an and does not find beauty in it while reciting it. He has no taste for the Qur’an and feels no love for it or pleasure when it is read. Rather, he finds pleasure if he listens to Muka’an' or Tasdiyyah. These are satanic pleasures and he is among those whom Allaah mentioned in the Ayah”

“And whosoever turns away from the remembrance of the Most Beneficent (Allah), We appoint for him Satan to be a companion for him.”
[EMQ – Az Zukruf: 43:36]
[Awliyaa' Ar-Rahman]



Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim [rhm] said,
"Of the tricks of the enemy of Allah, Satan, that he uses to trap those who do not enjoy much intelligence, knowledge or sincerity in religion, are Mukaa' and Tasdiyyah. These people of ignorance listen to and use musical instruments that are prohibited and which lead the hearts to abandoning the Qur’an. These hearts are indulging in sin and disobedience of Allah. Music, then, is Satan's Qur’an and the barrier between one and Allah.
It is the way to sodomy and adultery. With it, the lover finds what he seeks and dreams of sinful love. Satan has trapped the weak hearts in the love of singing and made it beautiful to them. Satan reveals to his agents' fake proofs that they use as evidence to the beauty of singing. These people accept Satan's revelation and, as a consequence, abandon the Qur’an. When you witness them while listening, you will find them silent in humbleness, sitting idle and their hearts are concentrating and totally enjoying music and singing. Their hearts will feel closer to music, as if they were drunk. They dance and move in a suggestive manner, like faggots and loose women. And why not? They are drunk with the pleasure of listening to music and singing and act accordingly. For other than Allah, and for Satan, there are hearts that are being broken by sin, and fortunes that are being spent for other than Allah's Pleasure. They spend their lives in joyful fun and make a mockery of their religion. Instruments of the devil are sweeter to their ears than the Qur’an. If one of them listens to the Qur’an from beginning to end, it will have little effect or excitement on him. If Satan's Qur’an is being performed and heard, they feel joy in their hearts and one can see it in their eyes. Their feet dance, their hands clap, their breathing intensifies and the rest of their bodies feel joy. O you who are trapped in this sin, you who have sold your share of Allah to Satan, what a losing deal! Why not feels this joy when you listen to the Qur’an? Why not feel pleasure and comfort when the Glorious Qur’an is recited? But, everyone seeks what he feels is suitable for him, and ends up with what is really suitable for him."
[Ighathat Al-Lahfan].

Flying the Flag for England?

Since the beginning of the FIFA World Cup 2006 and continuing... there has been a rise in the number of people flying the English flag in a desperate attempt to regain national pride. The problem is that this has also become very common within the Muslim community.
The call for integration has affected some Muslims to the extent whereby they have gone out of their way to become more acceptable to the Englishman. They too, in order to show their solidarity and moderation, have flown the English flag over their homes and on their cars, most often not knowing the history behind it.



The national flag of England (otherwise known as the St George flag) bears the blood red cross symbolizing the patron Saint of England: St George. This flag was adopted as the uniform for English soldiers during the Crusades against the Muslims of the eleventh, twelfth and thirteenth centuries and was the flag held by the Christians when marching into battle against the Muslims. At the Church of St. George in Fordington, England, there is a sculpture of St. George on a horse leading the Crusaders to victory at the Battle of Antioch (June 1098); his flag bearing the cross.


It is important to note that the Christian crusades were launched at the Council of Clermont in France, on November 27, 1095 by Pope Urban II in order to fight against the Muslims and gain authority over them, believing that this was god's work. These bloodthirsty crusaders waged a brutal and savage attack against the Muslims killing anyone in sight be it men, women or children resulting in mass killing and bloodshed.

They un-relentlessly tortured and mutilated Muslims with blood flowing up to their knees in the lands of al-Quds without care, showing their barbarity and hatred for the Muslims. This ‘war of the cross’ was fought under the banner of Christianity with the red-blood cross as their emblem. These crusades did not stop; in fact, up until now we see how the Christians of Europe and their illegitimate children in America have once again allied to fight against the Muslims in order to gain power and authority over us with the aim of destroying our belief and ideology. They too believe that they are doing god's work in the service of Christ, even the likes of Bush claim to have received instruction from god telling him to launch a crusade against the Muslims. Bush being the bloodthirsty crusader at the forefront with the cross held high whilst the others follow on behind.


Today this flag is widely used in England as a symbol of national pride and identity more commonly during sporting competitions like the football World Cup. The sad reality is that many Muslims too have taken up this flag and chosen to display it as a symbol of their support for the English.
They seem to be oblivious to the fact that not only does it represent the blood thirsty Christian crusades waged against the Muslims but also the Christian cross which is a symbol of the incorrect belief that Jesus was crucified on it.


Allah (swt) says in the Qur'aan:
"And because of their saying (in boast), "We killed Messiah 'Eesaa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), the Messenger of Allah," - but they killed him not, nor crucified him, but the resemblance of 'Eesaa (Jesus) was put over another man (and they killed that man), and those who differ therein are full of doubts. They have no (certain) knowledge, they follow nothing but conjecture."
 [EMQ - An-NIsa: 4:157]


Many Muslims have, as a result of their ignorance, displayed this flag in their houses, shops, cars and even on themselves without knowing the implications of it. The common response from ignorant Muslims is to say, ‘I only support the football team that’s why I’ve got it’, without even taking into consideration the implications of this act. Most often it is these same people who, during the cricket World Cup, will not hesitate to raise the Pakistani or Bengali flag for the same reason.
Yet this is not a valid excuse as is the case if someone was to wear a Jewish skullcap, the Sikh bangle, or any other such religious symbol. In fact, to do such a thing is in itself an act of kufr (disbelief) as this is showing support, acceptance and reverence to their religious symbols.


The fact of the matter is that the English flag is not just a symbol of support for a football team; rather it contains the Christian cross and carries a history of brutality towards the Muslims.


It is reported that Aa'ishah (ra) said: “The Prophet (saw) would not leave anything in his house on which there was a cross but he would alter [deface] it.”
[Saheeh al-Bukhaari]


Furthermore, the Messenger of Allah (saw) said:
“Whoever imitates a people is one of them.”
[Sunan Abu Dawud]
Imitating the Kuffaar in their deen is an act of kufr and this is what holding up, waving or displaying the Christian cross (i.e. the St George flag) amounts to.


We call upon all Muslims to take heed from this message and to remove any flags they may posses however big or small and to advise others to do the same, be they neighbours, family, relatives or friends.

Indeed the standing in front of All Mighty Allaah, is a great standing! This will be a day of Questioning!!!

::: A Conference in response to The Burqa Ban :::

Assalamu'Alaikum Wa Rahmatulaahi Wa Barakaatuh Dear sisters..,

We all pray that you are all well and in the best of Emaan Insha'Allaah, Ameen.

Uk Muslim Women present a one day Interactive Conference In London,
A conference: In Response To The Burqa Ban.


Insha'Allaah, Sisters have organised this very special conference for all the Muslimah's and the Non-Muslim Women too - to come and find out why the Covering of the Muslimah is soo important in our beautiful religion, and why it is that we cover ourselves

Some say that we are 'oppressed' and some say we are a 'threat' but we say we are liberated, Liberated almost 1400years ago! Allahu Akbar!!
Best of all, It is an Order from Our Lord, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

"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]

Stand in solidarity with your sisters , support the womens dawah network - support the event .. support the Burqa.. wear the Burqa
Support the call ... The Burqa .. Your sister ..Your Deen.

Flyer For The Event:

' Burqa or no Burqa ? '

...............................................

On the day There Will Be:

- Free Islamic Literature

- An interactive Islamic Dawah workshops

- Flash Presentation

- Creche facilities for Little ones

ENTRANCE IS FREE

Time:

1- 4pm

Venue:

Grove Road Centre,

Grove Road

Walthamstow

E17 9BU

Come along and find out from Muslimah's about Muslimah's and why we cover.

Please find attached a youtube link and a map (for directions) for this much awaited event taking place very soon..Insha'Allaah!!

For further Information or stall bookings please contact: - 0755-382-2068

Don't be like those who stand in slience in the face of oppression.

London Conferance - Burqa Or No Burqa ?
Link For Video Trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/user/EssenceOfTaqwa#p/f/0/ApE4I0HyRbo

Link For Map:


http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?hl=en&q=map+of+grove+road+walthamstow+e17&rlz=1R2ADSA_enGB381&um=1&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=Grove+Rd,+London+E17&gl=uk&ei=Wt0bTLfHIsT74AbjiIyqCg&sa=X&oi=geocode_result&ct=image&resnum=1&ved=0CBoQ8gEwAA




Please Share and forward This!! This is a WOMEN ONLY event Non muslims welcome.

The Prophet's Battles, Armies and Expeditions

By Imâm ibn al-Qayyim al-Jawziyyah [rahimahullâh]

From "Zâd al-Ma'âd fî Hadyi Khayri-l 'Ibâd"

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All of the Prophet's Ghazwat, Bu'uth and Saraya [1] occurred after the Hijrah, within a span of ten years. There were either twenty-seven Ghazwat, or twenty-five, or twenty-nine. The Prophet[saw] had to fight in nine battles, Badr, 'Uhud, al-Khandaqh, Quraidhah, al-Mustaliqh, Khaybar, al-Fath' (Conquering of Makkah), 'Hunayn and Tâ'if. It was said that the Prophet sallallâhu 'alayhi wa sallam also fought against Banî an-Nadhîr (a Jewish tribe) and at al-Ghabah and Wadi al-Qura, which was a suburb of Khaybar.

As for the Saraya of the Prophet[saw] and the armies he sent, they numbered close to sixty. There were seven major battles: Badr, 'Uhud, al-Khandaqh, Khaybar, al-Fath', 'Hunayn and Tabuk. [2] Several parts of the Qur'ân mentioned these major Ghazwat. For instance, Sûrah al-Anfâl (chapter 8) was revealed about Ghazwat Badr, while the last part of Sûrah ali-'Imrân (chapter 3) was about Ghazwat 'Uhud, from Allâh's statement,

"And (remember) when you [Muhammad[saw] left your household in the morning to post the believers at their stations for the battle"
[EMQ - Surah Al-Imran - 3:121]
until just before the end of the Sûrah.

The beginning of Sûrah al-Ahzâb (chapter 33) was revealed about the battles of al-Khandaqh, Quraydhah and Khaybar. Sûrah al-'Hashr (59) was revealed about Banî an-Nadhîr, al-Fath' (48) about al-'Hudaibiyyah and the battle of Khaybar. The conquering of Makkah was mentioned indirectly in Sûrah al-Fath' and directly in Sûrah an-Nasr (110).
The Messenger Muhammad[saw] was wounded during the battle of 'Uhud. [3] The angels fought alongside the Messenger[saw] during the battles of Badr [4] and 'Hunayn. They also descended during the battle of al-Khandaqh [5] , where they shook the Mushriks [surrounding Madînah] and defeated them. During that battle, the Prophet[saw] threw a handful of sand at the faces of the Mushriks (Polytheists) and they fled [without a fight]. [6]

The Messenger Muhammad[saw] won decisively in two battles, Badr and 'Hunain. He used al-Manjaniq (mongonel, or catapult) during on battle, at-Tâ'if, and took cover behind a trench during Ghazwat al-Khandaqh, also known as Ghazwat al-Ahzâb. Salmân al-Farsi [ra] suggested that the trench be dug in that battle.

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

Footnotes

[1] 'Ghazwat', pl. for 'Ghazwah', means battles. The battles that the Prophet[saw] led himself were called, 'Ghazwat', whereas the armies and expeditions he sent while remaining behind are called, 'Bu'uth', pl. for, 'Ba'th', and 'Saraya', pl. for, 'Sariyyah'.

[2] All of which are mentioned in detail later on in, Zâd al-Ma'âd.

[3] Al-Bukhârî (3767) narrated that Sahl bin as-Sa'idi was asked about how the wound of the Prophet sallallâhu 'alayhi wa sallam was treated, and he replied, "'Alî used to bring water in his shield and Fâtimah (the Prophet's daughter and 'Alî's wife) used to wash the blood off his face. Then straw mat was burnt and the wound was filled with it."

[4] Al-Bukhârî (3694) narrated that 'Abdullâh ibn 'Abbâs[ra]said that the Messenger Muhammad[saw] said on the day of Badr, "Here is Jibrîl, holding the head of his horse and wearing war armours." Allâh sent the angels to strengthen their hearts of the believers and to aid them.

[5] Shaykh 'Irfân said, "Allâh[swt] said in Sûrah al-Ahzâb (33:9), 'O you who believe! Remember Allâh's Favour to you, when there came against you hosts, and We sent against them a wind and forces that you saw not [angels during the battle of Al-Ahzâb (the Confederates, Ghazwat al-Khandaq (in 5 AH)]. And Allâh is Ever All-Seer of what you do.' "

[6] Al-Bukhârî (2716) and Muslim (3277) narrated that The Messenger of Allaah[saw] asked for Allâh's wrath upon the Ahzâb, saying: "O, Allâh, Revealer of the Holy Book, and the One swift at reckoning! O, Allâh, Defeat the confederates. O, Allâh, Defeat them and shake them."

Captivated, Imprisoned and Fettered

Imaam ibn al-Qayyim al-Jawziyyah [rahimahullaah]

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Ibn al-Qayyim rahimahullaah said:

And among its effects is that the disobedient (sinner) is constantly in the shackles of his Shaytaan and the prison of his shahwa (desires) and the chains / fetters of his hawaa (whims). So he is a captive, one who is imprisoned and who is tied up. There is no captive in a worse state than the one who is captivated by his worst enemy and there is no prison which is tighter than the prison of hawa (desire) and there is no bond / fetter more strong than the bond of desire.
How, then, will a heart which is captivated, imprisoned and fettered travel unto Allaah and the Home of the Hereafter. How will a person take a single step forward when the heart is bound and harmful things approach it from every direction. The harmful things approach it to the extent that it is tied up [i.e. imprisoned by its desires and whims..].

The example of the heart is like the example of a bird. Every time is ascends it becomes distant from the harmful things and every time it descends the harmful things hurt it. In a hadeeth there occurs that Shaytaan is like a wolf to people. Just as when a sheep has no protector and is in between many wolves, they are quick in causing damage and injury; likewise the servant who does not have guardianship from Allaah, then his wolf [i.e. his desires, whims etc.] is to him a predatory animal. [Thus] there is no escape for the servant from having protection from Allaah.
Taqwaa is a safeguarding for him and a strong shield between himself and the punishment of this world and the Hereafter.


Every time the sheep is close to its shepherd it is more safe from the wolf and every time it becomes distant from its shepherd it is closer to destruction. So its sanctuary is when it is close to its shepherd because the wolf takes the lonely one from the flock and this is the one which is the furthest one of the flock from the shepherd. The basis of all of this is is that every time the heart is distant from Allaah[swt] the harmful things are quick in approaching it and every time it is close to Allaah[swt] the harmful things become distant from it.

Remoteness from Allaah[swt] has levels/degrees, some of which are more severe than others. Heedlesness distances the servant from Allaah and some acts of disobedience are greater than some acts of heedlessness. Some innovations are greater than some acts of disobedience and some things from hypocrisy and Shirk are greater than all of what has preceded.

Awakening

By Ibn al-Qayyim al-Jawziyyah rahimahullâh (d. 751H)

From "Madrâjis as-Salikîn"
Printed in Al-Jumu'ah Magazine

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The first of the ranks of the journey of servititude (ubûdiyah) is awakening, which is alarming and stirring up of the heart from the sleep of heedlessness. By Allâh, how priceless is that revitalising alarm! How valuable and indispensable for the journey! Whoever experiences it, by Allâh, he has indeed experienced the breeze of success.
Without experiencing it, every one is lost in heedlessness. His hearing is asleep while his eyes appear awake. It is this blessed alarm that wakes one up and makes him a seeker of Allâh. The seeker now rolls up his sleeves and musters up his courage to set out on the journey to Allâh, station by station.

Perhaps it is this rising up from sleep that is mentioned in the following Qur'ânic verse:

"Say: I exhort you only to one thing, that you rise up for Allâh's sake in twos and singly, then ponder; there is no madness in your fellow citizen (Muhammad); he is only a warner to you before a severe chastisement."
[EMQ - As Saba - 34:46]

The first realisation that illuminates the seeker upon this awakening is the immensity of gifts of Allâh[swt] upon him. The believer's heart glances at the gifts and bounties of Allâh and is overwhelmed by his own sense of inability to even count them, let alone thank Allâh for them all.

The second realisation is the realisation of the inadequacy of his gratitude and worship to Allâh[swt]. These realisations are in fact both the cause and the effect of the first station of awakening. As the believer (alternatively, the seeker, for there is no difference between the two, every believer is indeed a seeker of Allâh – tr.) advances on his journey and as his heart is sharpened by these two realisations, it becomes incumbent upon him to notice more and more the innumerable inner and outer, open and hidden gifts of Allâh and recognise his own shortcoming in thanking the Giver adequately.

These two realisations make the seeker actualise the supplication of the Messenger Muhammad[saw], in which he said: "(O Allâh), I admit Your bounties upon me, and I admit my sin, so forgive me, for no one can forgive but You!" (al-Bukhârî)
At this point, one realises why this supplication is indeed the master of all supplications for forgiveness (as the Prophet has told us). The believer also realises at this point that if Allâh[swt] were to punish all the dwellers of Heavens and the Earth, He would not be in the wrong. If, on the other hand, He were to exonerate and reward them all, his reward and mercy would far exceed their deeds. The believer, therefore, realises that he must be ever mindful of Allâh's bounties and his own shortcomings.

NONE ENTERS IT EXCEPT THE PURE

The seeker inevitable realizes his sins and failings, and feels that he is in serious danger on account of them. He remembers Almighty Allâh's censure for those who forget the verses of Allâh[swt] after they have been reminded of them:

"And who is more wrongful than one who is reminded of the verses of Allâh, yet he evades them, and forgets what is awaiting him."
[EMQ - Al Kahf - 18:57]

Once the seeker is fully cognizant of his offences, he rolls up his sleeves to compensate for what has been lost. He breaks off the shackles of sins with the strength of istighfâr (seeking forgiveness) and penance. He yearns for purification, just like the purification of gold and silver from impurities when they are burnt, so that he may enter the paradise prepared by his Lord for him, for nothing impure can ever enter the Paradise:


"…those whose lives the angels take in a state of purity, saying (to them), "Peace be on you, enter the Garden, because of (the good) which you did (in the world)."
[EMQ - An Nahl - 16:32]

This purification is carried out by four means:
1) Repentance by turning away from sins (tawbah),
2) Actively seeking forgiveness (istighfâr),
3) Good deeds that erase the bad ones,
4) And calamities that efface the sins.
If one is purified by these four means, he becomes of those who is greeted and congratulated y the angles upon death, and assured by them of his abode in the Paradise, and that he shall see grief and fear no more. Without any of these four, one's repentance is not complete and is not likely to be enough to counter balance his sins.


After one's death, when he is in the state of Barzakh (the state between death and the Final Day), his sins may be effaced by the following:
1) Funeral salâh for him performed by the faithful,
2) The trials of the grave (may Allâh protect us from this),
3) What his brothers from the Muslims present to him after his death, of virtuous deeds, like charity, Hajj, fasting, recitation of the Qur'ân and salâh on his behalf.
The jurists agree that the charity and supplications of the living will reach him and benefit him after his death. Majority include Hajj in this list, while the Hanâbilah include all good deeds in this list; the Hanbalî way being the most liberal of all in this matter.


Those who are still not purified by these means, may be purified by the dreadfulness of the Day of Resurrection or by intercession of those whom Allâh[swt] will allow to intercede that Day, and finally and most importantly, by the pardoning of his Most Forgiving Lord.

If one's sins are still remaining, the Fire or the purgatory then purifies him, the extent of this punishment being proportional to one's sins. When one is cleansed of sins and corruption, and all that is left is pure and good, he is now entered into the Paradise, into which one but the pure may enter.


THREE PARTS OF THE REALISATION

The first of the two realisations, the recognition and appreciation of Allâh's endless bounties, is assisted by three things: the light of intellect, Allâh's favors, and consideration of the suffering of less fortunate people.

The light of intellect is the light that caused one's soul to wake up in the first place. One is able to appreciate the bounties of Allâh only as much as the strength of this light allows him. Some may not realise Allâh's bounties except in ordinary things like food, clothing, safety and their standing in the society.

Such people may not have even a piece of this light from Allâh[swt], for the real bounty to consider and appreciate is the bounty of Islâm, of Îmân, of Allâh's message, of the opportunity to remember Him and the honour to obey Him. This faith is the supreme bounty and gift of Allâh, and one cannot see it expect with the illuminated inner eye.

Sensing the rays of Allâh's favors through the clouds of mundane life and darkness of the desiring self is the second part of appreciation. One observes the unfortunate people who are heedless of Allâh, or lost in innovations (ibtida') and forgotten the essence of the Deen of Allâh[swt].
Such disbelievers and innovators are indeed greater in misery and suffering than those who are dying of starvation and disease. Once the seeker realises the misery of the misguided, he realises the immensity of Allâh's mercy upon him to have guided him, for things are known through their opposites.


THE SECOND REALISATION: OUR SHORTCOMINGS

The second of the two realisations associated with the Awakening of a believer is the realisation of one's sins, which again is assisted by three things. Realising the greatness of the Truth, knowing oneself, and certainty in Allâh's admonitions.

Realising His greatness from the core of one's heart is the key to understanding the enormity of defying Allâh, the Most High. If one contemplates in the greatness of Allâh and his own infirmity and weakness before Allâh, and his need for Allâh at every moment of his life, the enormity and wrongness of his sins becomes glaringly obvious.
Knowing the nothingness of one's own self before Allâh[swt], therefore, is an essential step in abandoning sins.

The axis of all success is belief in Allâh's promises and admonitions; and if this belief dwindles or weakens in the heart, so does any hope for success. Allâh has clearly told us that His verses and signs are of benefit only to those who believe in His promises and warning and fear the punishment of the afterlife:

"Indeed, in these there is a sign only for those who feared the Punishment of the Hereafter,"
 [EMQ - Hud - 11:103]

"You are a warner exclusively for those who fear it (the Last Day)."
[EMQ - An Nazi'at - 79:45]


Those deserving of salvation in this world and in the Hereafter are none but those who believe in and fear the admonition of Allâh, Lord Most High.

"And We will establish you (the believers) on the Earth after them (the disbelievers), that is the reward for those who feared meeting Me, and feared my admonition."
 [EMQ - Ibrahim - 14:14]


REMORSE OF THE LOST MOMENTS

One of the highest grades of this Awakening is the realisation of the lost days of one's life, which leads to the commitment to compensate for the lost time and fill the remaining days with goodness and virtue. Such an awakened soul then is miserly about wasting even an hour, indeed even a breath, in anything that is not helpful in its journey to Allâh. Every wasted moment is a regret and loss on that Day and a hindrance on the journey to Allâh[swt].

Three things enhance the remorse for the lost days and the concern to compensate for them in the remaining days of one's life; knowledge, responsiveness to admonition, and company of the righteous. The more one knows the worth of deeds and enormity of their consequences, the more he realises the worth of his loss.

Similarly, one's responsiveness to the admonisher of his heart (according to a hadîth of the Prophet, every believer has an admonisher in his heart who warns him against possible sins) determines how much he can improve.
The company of people who have great concern for the condition of their hearts and determination to reach the highest levels is another great help in the path of the seeker.

Thus ends the description of the first station (maqâm) of the Madârij (ranks) of the seekers of Allâh

Four Actions Towards Taqwaa

Notes from Hilyatul Awliya wa Tabaqat al Asfiya and Secondary References from Ibn al-Qayyim.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"And march forth in the way (which leads to) forgiveness from your Lord, and for Paradise as wide as are the heavens and the earth, prepared for Al Muttaqoon."
[EMQ - Al- Imraan - 3:133]

1. BRINGING THE SELF TO ACCOUNT FOR HIS DEEDS

Allah[swt] says in the Qur'an:
"O you who believe! Fear Allah and keep your duty to Him. And let every person look to what he has sent forth for the morrow, and fear Allah. Verily, Allah is All-Aware of what you do."
[EMQ - Al- Hashr - 59:18]

When a Muslim takes account of his own deeds he is able to realize his mistakes and correct them. Those who do not engage in accounting their own deeds, only condemn themselves in front of Allah[swt].

Allah[swt] said in the Qur'an:
"So, by your Lord (O Muhammad) We shall certainly call all of them to account. For all that they used to do."
[EMQ - Al- Hijr - 15: 92-93]

Ibn Qayyim[rh] said "Condemning oneself is a practice of the truthful. A servant draws closer to Allah in a moment (when he condemns himself) much more than he would do so through actions."

When a Muslim takes account of his actions, he is able to realize the right of Allah over him. Ibn Qayyim also said "A benefit of understanding Allah's right over the servant is that it breeds condemnation of oneself and delivers one from showing off and vanity. It also opens the door of humbleness in front of Allah and closes the doors of conceit.

It allows one to realize that salvation is only through Allah's grace and mercy. It is Allah's right that He should be obeyed and not disobeyed: that He should be remembered and not forgotten and that He should be appreciated and not unappreciated.

Whoever thinks over these things will know with certainty that he cannot fulfill these conditions and, thus, has to resort to Allah's mercy. Such a person will be convinced that he cannot rely on his actions, lest he be destroyed. Many people think about their rights over Allah and do not about His rights over them.
This is how there are detached from Allah and deprived of the desire to meet Him. This is the epitome of ignorance of their Lord and of themselves."
[Ighathatul lahfaan 1/99-101; secondary reference]

A'isha[ra] was once asked about the verse,

"Then We gave the Book the Qur'an) for inheritance to such of Our slaves whom We chose (the followers of Muhammad) Then of them are some who wrong their ownselves, and of them are some who follow a middle course, and of them are some who are, by Allah's Leave, foremost in good deeds. That (inheritance of the Qur'an), that is indeed a great grace."
[EMQ - Al-Fatir - 35:32]

She answered "'My son! They are in Paradise. Those who raced towards good deeds are those who lived during the time of Rasulullah sallallahu alayhi wa sallam who testified to their sustenance and Paradise. As for those who were moderate, they followed him among his companions and caught up with him. And as for those who wronged themselves are concerned., they are people like me and you."

Abu Darda[ra] said "No one can achieve complete understanding of Islam until he condemns people for the sake of Allah and then returns home and condemns himself even more."

Imam Ahmed[rhm] related from Wahab ibn Munabbah[rhm] "It is written from the family of Dawood[as] "An intelligent person should not be distracted on four occasions; when he is supplicating to his Lord, when he is auditing himself, when he is being informed by his friends about his shortcomings, and when he is alone with himself."

Omar Ibn Khattab[ra] said "Take account of yourselves before you are taken to account [by someone else], weigh your deeds before they are weighed [by someone else]."

Hasan al Basri[rhm] said about the verse "No. I do swear by the criticizing self..."
[EMQ - Al- Qiyamah - 75:2] : A believer will always be critical of himself in his food, his drink and his speech. A sinner will not criticize himself."
He also said "A believer is a guardian over himself: he acounts himself for Allah. Those who take account of themselves in this world will be audited lightly in the Hereafter. Those who take this issue lightly will find their auditing very difficult."

2. DISCIPLINING ONE'S SELF FOR ITS SHORTCOMINGS

We are not made perfect by Allah subhana wa ta'ala and we inevitably have our shortcomings. The pious predecessors differed with us in that they were harsh on themselves when it came to their shortcomings because they knew that obedience can be very difficult.

In the Qur'an we are told that (Iblis) said:

"Because you have sent me astray, surely I will sit in wait against them (human beings) on Your straight path. Then I will come to them from before them and behind them, from their right and from their left, and You will not find most of them as thankful ones."
[EMQ - Al-Araaf - 7:12-17]

The pious predecessors were always fully aware of this and did everything to their capability to take their souls into account for its shortcomings, all out fear, love and hope in Allah[swt].

Tameem Dari [ra] failed to wake up for Tahajjud one night and he stayed awake at nights in prayer the whole of the next year. Talhah radi Allahu anhu became preoccupied with a bird on his wall on his orchard while he prayed and he donated the wall as redemption for that shortcoming.

Imam Muhammad ibn Sireen narrated that Abu Hurairah[ra] said "Sometimes I fell unconscious in between the mimbar of The Messenger Muhammad[saw] and the chamber of A'isha. People would say "Maybe he is mad!" However, Allah[swt] knows best that I am not mad, but my hunger made me fall." Omar[ra] gave a piece of land when he missed 'Asr prayers in a group, and ibn Omar used to stay awake the whole night if he missed a group prayer and then he would free two slaves.

Allah[swt] said in the Qur'an
"And those who kept their duty to their Lord will be led to Paradise in groups, till, when they reach it, and its gates will be opened (before their arrival for their reception) and its keepers will say: Salamun 'Alaikum (peace be upon you)! You have done well, so enter here to abide therein."
[EMQ - Al- Zumar - 39:73]

3. BRINGING THE SELF TO DO ACTIONS OF OBEDIENCE
When a Muslim knows the value of the Hereafter, making an effort to have a pleasant abode is no longer difficult. This is why the pious predecessors acted upon the Qur'an and Sunnah. Abu Bakr Siddiq[ra] said "Whoever enters his grave without any provisions is like the one who mounts the sea without a ship."

Bringing the self to do actions of obedience to Allah[swt] has a great deal to do with being content by Allah's decree. This state can only be attained by those who seek to have great knowledge and love. And so, by this it is possible to find pleasure in whatever they have been given by Allah[swt] whether it is a trial or a tribulation, JUST BECAUSE, it comes from Allah[swt].

Allah[swt] said in the Qur'an
"Whoever acts righteously, whether male or female, and is a believer, We will surely give him life with a good life, and We will surely give them their reward in accordance with the best of what they used to do..."
[EMQ - An-Nahl- 16:97]

Ahmad bin Bindar narrated that Abu Hurairah cried during his last illness, and when asked about it he said "Surely I am not crying being attached to your world, but rather for the long journey awaiting me, and the little provisions I have prepared for it. This morning, I am descending upon either paradise, or hell, and I have no idea towards which of the two I will be taken!"

Narrated Muawiya: I heard the Messenger Muhammad[saw] saying, "A group of people amongst my followers will remain obedient to Allah's orders and they will not be harmed by anyone who will not help them or who will oppose them, till Allah's Order (the Last Day) comes upon them while they are still on the right path."
[Sahih Bukhari: Volume 4, Book 56, Number 835]

Abdur Rahman ibn Abdullah bin Mas'ud narrated that someone asked his father "O Abu Abdur Rahman, teach me a few words that are all-encompassing and beneficial, so that I will need no further elaboration!" Ibn Mas'ud said "Worship Allah and associate nothing with Him. Live by the dictates of the Qur'an and pursue its guidance. Accept the truth and justice even if they come from a stranger you do not recognize, or even from someone you disregard as despicable, and refute falsehood even if it comes from a sibling you love."

Yahya ibn Mu'adh[rhm] said "Congratulations to those who leave the world before it deserts them; to those who build their graves before they enter them; and to those who please their Lord before they meet Him."

Thus we should try to bring ourselves to the very best of our abilities to do actions of obedience to Allah [swt].

In Sahih Muslim it has been related that on the authority of A'isha[ra] The Messenger Muhammad[saw] said "Everyone of the children of Adam has been created with three hundred and sixty joints; so he who declares the Glory of Allah, praises Allah, and declares Allah to be one, Glorifies Allah, and seeks forgiveness from Allah, and removes stone, or thorn, or bone from people's path, and enjoins what is good and forbids what is evil, to the number of those three hundred and sixty, will walk that having removed himself from hell."

Abu Dharr[ra] reported "Some of the people from among the companions of The Messenegr Muhammad[saw] said to him: "O Rasulullah, the rich have taken away all the reward. They observe prayer as we do; they keep the fasts as we keep, and they give sadaqa out of their surplus riches.
Upon this he[saw]said "Has Allah not prescribed for you by following which you can also do sadaqa? In every declaration of the glorification of Allah there is sadaqa, and every takbir there is sadaqa and ever declaration that He is One is a sadaqa, and enjoining of good is a sadaqa, and forbidding of that which is evil is a sadaqa, and in man's sexual intercourse with his wife there is sadaqa."
The companions said "Rasulullah is there reward for him who satisfies his sexual passion among us?" He said "Tell me if he were to devote it to something forbidden, would it not be a sin on his part? Similarly, if he were to devote it to something lawful, he should have a reward."
[Muslim]

Abu Dharr[ra] asked The Messenger Muhammad[saw] "Which action is best?" he [saw] said "Faith in Allah and Jihad in the way of Allah." He asked "Which neck is best for emancipation?" he [saw] said "That which is dearest of them in price and most valuable of them near its masters." He asked "If I cannot do it?" The Messenger Muhammad [saw] said "You shall help a laborer or work for one who is disabled." He asked "If I cannot do it?" he [saw] said "You shall call the people from wrong doing, because it is charity which you bestow upon yourself."
[Agreed upon/Riyadhus Saleheen]

Allah[swt] said in the Qur'an
"If anyone does a righteous deed, it is for his own soul."
[EMQ - Al- Jaathiyya - 45:15]
And, He has promised us in the Qur'an
"And whoso does good an atom's weight will see it then."
 [EMQ - Az-Zilzaal - 99:7]


4. SEEKING THE COMPANY AND KNOWLEDGE OF THE PIOUS

Unnecessary company is a disease that causes much harm. The wrong kind of companionships often afford one to be deprived of Allah's blessings Companionship in this life should be beneficial for one's akhirah. Ibn Qayyim[rhm] cites four different kinds of companionships:

a) People whose company is like food. It is indispensable, night or day. Once we have taken our need from this company we can leave it until we need it again. These are people with knowledge of Allah[swt], who are pious, who wish well for Allah[swt], His prophet[saw] and His servants. Associating with them is an achievement in itself.

b) People whose company is like a medicine. Their company is only needed when a disease sets in. When you are healthy you have no need for them, but mixing with them is sometimes necessary such as livelihood, business and consultation. Once what you need has been fulfilled, mixing with them should be avoided.

c) People whose company is harmful. Mixing with these people is like a disease, in all its variety and degrees. You will never benefit from them in this life or in the next life if you have them for company. You will lose either one or both of your deen and your livelihood because of them. If their companionship has taken hold of you and is established then it becomes fatal.

Among such people are those who neither speak any good that might benefit you, nor listen closely to you so that they might benefit from you. They do not know their souls. Their words are like lashes, while all the while they are full of admiration for and delight in their own words. They cause distress to their company, while believe they are the center of attraction.
Mixing with such a person will inevitably come to an end and is destined to be doomed. In such cases a person should just hold on to good behavior, only presenting such company with his outward appearance, until Allah subhana wa ta'ala offers him a way out of this company and out of its afflictions.

d) People whose company is evil in itself. This is like taking poison, its victim either finds an antidote for it or dies. Many belong to this category. They are people of shirk and misguidance who abandon the Sunnah and bring their personal beliefs as the truth. A Muslim should not sit in their company nor mix with them. The result of which will be a death of the heart.

With these kinds of companionships, we need to be more aware of what we choose to surround ourselvers with.
In addition, Hasan al Basri said "The heart becomes corrupt in six ways: commiting sins in the hope of repenting, seeking knowledge and not applying it, practice without ikhlas (sincerity), eating the sustenance of Allah without appreciating Him, not being please with Allah's decree and burying the dead without learning from them."


Thus, in our effort to have increased taqwa we must surround ourselves with company who only seek to please Allah[swt] in speech and in actions. We must also take time to acquire knowledge from the pious of the past and of the present. And finally, we likewise must make an effort to keep company of those who are hungry for knowledge about Allah[swt] and The Messenger Muhammad[saw].

The Best Quality is to Have Trust in Allaah

Shaykh ul-Islaam ibn Taymiyyah[rahimahullaah]


As for the next part of the question, about the most valuable quality to aim for, then the answer to this is that the best prize is to have trust in Allaah, reliance upon Him of His sufficiency, and keeping a good opinion of Him, the latter being that if anyone is anxious regarding their sustenance then he should turn to the shelter of Allaah, as the Exalted said, from what is narrated by His Prophet, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam,

"Oh My servants, all of you are hungry except for those I have fed, so seek food of Me and I shall feed you. O My servants, all of you are naked except for those I have clothed, so seek clothing of Me and I shall clothe you."
[Upon Abu Dharr, related by Muslim, At-Tirmidhee, and Ahmad]

In this regard there is also a hadeeth which at-Tirmidhee narrates from Anas (radiyallaahu `anhu), who said that the Messenger Muhammad[saw] said:
'Each of you should ask for his needs from Allaah, even if the strap of your sandal breaks, because if Allaah does not facilitate it, it will never be possible.'

Allah the Most High says in His Book:
"...But ask Allaah for His bounty..."
[EMQ - An Nisa - 4:32]

"And when the prayer is finished, then you may disperse through the land, and seek the Bounty of Allaah..."
[EMQ - Al - Jumu'ah - 62:10]

Although this aayah is in the context of the congreagational Friday prayer, its meaning applies to all the prayers. That is why- and Allah[swt] knows best - The Messenger Muhammad[saw] instructed the person entering the mosque to say,
'Allaahummaftah lee abwaaba rahmatik' (O Allaah! open the doors of Your mercy for me)

and when leaving the mosque to say,
'Allaahumma innee as'aluka min fadlik' (O Allaah! I ask of You some of Your Bounty)
[Muslim, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, ad-Daarimee, ibn Maajah, Ahmad, Aboo 'Awaanah, Abdur-Razzaaq and al-Baihaqee]

Also the Friend of Allah[swt] (i.e. Ibraaheem, [as]) had said:
"...then seek sustenance from Allaah, serve Him, and be grateful to Him."
[EMQ - Al - Ankabut - 29:17]


This is a command, and a command signifies obligation. Therefore, to seek help from Allaah and to entreat to Him in the matter of livelihood and others is a fundamental principle. Furthermore, it is important in seeking a livelihood that one should acquire wealth with generosity of heart and not with greed so that he may be blessed in it.
Neither should he make the wealth the primary aim; rather, he should regard wealth much as he regards the toilet, which he has need of but it has no place in his heart, and he only resorts to it when necessary.

A marfoo` (i.e. report consisting of a chain of narration that goes back to the Messenger Muhammad[saw]s hadeeth which is related by At-Tirmidhee and others states that, "He who begins the morning with this world as his greatest concern, Allah[swt] disperses his collected gains and puts its loss in front of him, and only that of the world comes to him which is written for him. And he who begins the morning with the Hereafter as his greatest concern, Allah[swt] gathers for him his works and creates richness in his heart due to them, and the world comes to him subserviently."
[Related by aA-Tirmidhee with a da`eef isnaad, but the hadeeth is saheeh due to the supporting narrations of ibn Maajah, Ibn Hibbaan and Ahmad]

One of the Salaf said, "Each of you is in need of the world, but you are in more need of your portion in the Hereafter. Therefore, if you are in search of your portion in the Hereafter first and foremost, then you will achieve your portion of the world in passing, such that it is taken care of as it comes."

Allah the Exalted says:
"I have only created jinn and men that they may worship Me. No sustenance do I require of them, nor do I require that they should feed Me. For Allaah is He who gives (all) sustenance, Lord of Power, Steadfast (forever)."
[EMQ - Adh - Dhariyaat - 51:56-58]

Letter from a captive to his wife [6/04/2008]

In the Name of Allah, ar-Rahmaan, ar-Raheem.

As-Salaamu Alaikum wa-Rahmatullahi wa-Barakaatuh,

Firstly, I pray that this letter reaches you, and if it does, I pray that it reaches you in the best of Imaan and Tawheed.

I’m finding it extremely difficult to write this letter, simply because I just don’t know where to start. There’s so much to say in such little time and difficult circumstances, so forgive me if the content of this letter seems all over the place.

I want to start by saying marrying you was definitely one of the best decisions I have ever made in this dunya. And I have enjoyed every day, month and year with you.

A lot has happened in the past year or so, and after I was arrested much of our plans were shattered by the Kuffaar (may Allah curse them). But Allah says, “they plot and plan, but Allah is the best of planners.” Perhaps my arrest was for the best of both of us, and our children – to strengthen our Imaan, return to our Lord in worship (exclusively) and remind us of how insignificant this dunya is.

I am now in a position where I do not know when I will see you next. In fact, there’s a possibility that I may never see you again, if the Kuffaar trump up more charges against me. But do not be disheartened. We accept whatever Allah has decreed and destined for us – the good and the bad of al-Qadr.

What if I were to pass away today, what would you do? You would have to continue with your life. And what about before we were married, weren’t you able to cope with life? You do not need or rely on me. It is Allah we need and rely upon. So whether I’m with you or not, Allah will continue to provide for us and look after our affairs. Allah is sufficient for us, and He is the best Disposer of affairs.

On the Day of Judgement you will flee from me and your children, as every person on that Day will have enough to worry about for themselves. You need to focus and prepare for this Day more than anything else, because that Day could be tomorrow, next week or in a few months.

Continue studying the Deen, focusing on your Salaat and prayers, distinguishing yourself from the Kuffaar (even by your dress), carrying da’wah, working to establish Allah’s Deen and memorising from the Book of Allah. Always be around good company (practising sisters who are obedient to Allah and to their husbands) and be with the Jamaa’ah that is following the manhaj of the Messenger (SAW) and his Companions. Remember that Shaytaan is with the individual.

One of the best investments we have in this dunya is our children. Teach them to read the Qur’aan, and teach them what is halaal and haraam. You and I (inshallah) will both get the reward for every good deed they do, even after we pass away! And make sure they always eat halaal. Check every label and product. A child that grows up eating haraam will be disobedient and rebellious to Allah, and even to you!

My dear wife, to me you are the most beautiful woman of this dunya today – not just by your looks but also by your character. I have every bit of faith in you. And you have been the best friend, companion, wife and partner. You are a precious jewel that is simply irreplaceable. You are, inshallah, as the Aayah states:

“…Therefore the righteous women are devoutly obedient (to Allah and to their husbands), and guard in the husband’s absence what Allah orders them to guard (e.g. their chastity, their husband’s property, etc.)…”
[EMQ - An-Nisaa - 4:34)

You are upright, honourable, dignified, beautiful and charismatic. You have always been obedient to me, fulfilled my rights and guarded your chastity and my property. And every time I look to your face it brings happiness to my heart. The Messenger Muhammad (SAW) said:

“The best woman is one who pleases you when you look at her, obeys you when you order her, and guards herself (her chastity) and your wealth in your absence.” (Tabaraani)

I have enjoyed every moment with you – whether by sitting by your side, having a cup of tea, dinner with the family, eating at our favourite restaurants, discussing the da’wah, singing nasheeds, reading Qur’aan, going to talks, or taking the kids to the park. I even used to enjoy winding you up sometimes! I miss everything about you – your smile, character, beauty, friendship, cooking, taste in fashion, and attention to detail.

Please forgive me for every time I have hurt you or been discourteous towards you. There have been many times when you have been under much stress, particularly when the bills have pilled up over many weeks. It really breaks me when I see you distressed, and sometimes I even feel incompetent, because it is my responsibility to pay the bills, do the shopping and make sure you feel safe, secure and tranquil. I sometimes feel I have failed you as your husband, but I’m sure you are aware that the life I lead as a daa’ie is not an ordinary one. You know my priorities are to Allah and His Deen, particularly in this time of crisis, in which the Shariah is not being implemented, we have no Ameer ul-Mu’mineen and Muslim land is under occupation. But I believe because you have been so patient and helped me with my responsibilities, Allah has always helped us find a way out of our difficulties. And whenever I became busy with the dunya and neglected my duty of commanding good and forbidding evil, those were the times when we would argue and face hardship.

The Messenger Muhammad (SAW) said: “Any woman who dies and her husband is pleased with her will enter Paradise.” (Ahmad)

I want you to know that I am very pleased with you, and I pray that Allah enters you into Jannat ul-Firdaws, inshallah. Not many women are able to attain their husband’s pleasure, but you have done it. You have the golden opportunity to reach the highest level in Jannah. You are married to a man who was imprisoned by the Kuffaar for his Deen, and if you remain steadfast and patient you will earn a great reward in the Akhirah, inshallah.

I have the opportunity to attain shahaadah (if I die behind bars), and I want you to enjoy with me the privileges of the Shaheed, if Allah accepts me. We will have, in Jannah, the house we have always dreamed of. Which prince, king or celebrity today has a palace 60 miles high and wide, that is made of gold bricks and pearls? Which king today has 80,000 servants? Can you imagine that? Never having to cook and clean or do the ironing again. After such a prospect, how could any woman contemplate on abandoning her husband while he is in prison or in jihad? Such a woman can only be described as foolish, to say the least!

The Messenger Muhammad (SAW) said that there is no barrier between Allah and the oppressed person who supplicates to Him.

May Allah unite us in Jannah and keep us firm to the haq, and make us die as Muslims. Remember me in your du’aa and look after the amaanah I have entrusted you with.

O Allah destroy all of those who have separated me from my wife and children! O Allah put them in chains of fire and make them walk on their faces on the Day of Resurrection! O Allah divide their families, ruin their lives and give them a slow and painful death!

O Allah destroy the filthy Taaghout who thought he had the right to judge me and steal Your attributes! O Allah make him choke on his own saliva and burn him in Hell.

O Allah, make us submissive to You and obey You in hardship and ease.

“Our Lord! Bestow on us from our wives and our offspring who will be the comfort of our eyes, and make us leaders for the Muttaqoon.”
[EMQ - Al-Furqan - 25:74]

“Our Lord! And make us submissive unto You and of our offspring a nation submissive unto You, and show us our Manaasik (all the rituals), and accept our repentance. Truly, You are the One Who accepts repentance, the Most Merciful.”
[EMQ - Al-Baqarah - 2:128]