*Ramadan*

Everything has a spring and the spring of the Qur'an is the Holy Month of Ramadan.
(Imam Baqir 'AS')

Essence of Eidul Fitr

Essence of Eidul Fitr

Gratefulness to God is always rewarded. Eidul Fitr is a reward to the Muslim ummah for striving to temper their souls through the rigours of self-denial and offering of special prayers during the holy month of Ramazan in humble thankfulness and sincere gratitude for the countless mercies, blessings and favours of our Creator which we enjoy in our mundane life.

In His infinite kindness and mercy He loves His subjects more than parents love their offsprings. It is only proper, therefore, that man as Allah's vicegerent on earth bases the lofty mission of his life on the worship and thankfulness to God for His endless bounties, grace and favours bestowed on him right from his cradle to the grave.

According to the Holy Quran Allah says, "I have created only jinn and man, that they may serve and worship Me." (Quran, 51:56). Beyond feasting and festivities, Eidul Fitr is also an ibadah (worship). Ibadah is the most vital duty of man towards his Maker and includes all actions which are performed in obedience to and for the pleasure of Allah. The concept of ibadah (worship) in Islam is all too comprehensive and encompasses the whole spectrum of human conduct covering both fulfilling obligations to Allah (Huquq-al-Ibad) and obligations towards fellow-beings (Huquq-al'Ibad). Fulfillment of both Huquq Allah and Huquq-al-'Ibad must be integrated to attain success as true adherents of Allah.

Everything in the world is for man but man himself is for his Lord and his mission in life is to fulfill the will of God. For his guidance, Allah raised many Messengers from amongst the descendants of Adam with Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) embodying the finality of prophethood and Islam marking the perfection of Divine commandments.

All good deeds are included in ibadah and consistent observance of ibadah creates taqwa (Godliness) which consists of complete submission to the will of God. The Prophets of God succeeded in making people observe their duty to God and to their fellow beings through the force of taqwa.

Taqwa is the vital driving force in developing the inner strength of man. The Prophets of God tried to nourish and nurture the quality of taqwa among human beings through various forms of ibadah and through emphasis on their social obligations.

Through acts of devotion one fulfils obligations to Allah and through good deeds to men one fulfils his obligations towards his fellow beings.

"It is taqwa that reaches Him" (Qur'an 22:37). As a practical and practicable religion Islam has provided a complete code of life for Muslims and all those who care to follow the teachings of Islam through Divine guidance in the shape of Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH). Herein lies the well-being of man both in this temporal and eternal life.

WHO ARE THE MUSLIMS?

WHO ARE THE MUSLIMS?

One billion people from a vast range of races, nationalities and cultures across the globe -- from the southern Philippines to Nigeria -- are united by their common Islamic faith. About 18% live in the Arab world; the world's largest Muslim community is in Indonesia; substantial parts of Asia and most of Africa are Muslim, while significant minorities are to be found in the Soviet Union, China, North and South America, and Europe.

WHAT DO MUSLIMS BELIEVE?

Muslims believe in OneUnique, Incomparable God; in the Angels created by Him; in the prophets through whom His revelations were brought to mankind; in the Day of Judgement and individual accountability for actions; in God's complete authority over human destiny and in life after death. Muslims believe in a chain of prophets starting with Adam and including Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Job, Moses, Aaron, David, Solomon, Elias, Jonah, John the Baptist, and Jesus, peace be upon them. But God's final message to man, a reconfirmation of the eternal message and a summing-up of all that has gone before was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad through Gabriel.

HOW DOES SOMEONE BECOME A MUSLIM?

Simply by saying 'there is no god apart from God, and Muhammad is the Messenger of God.' By this declaration the believer announces his or her faith in all God's messengers, and the scriptures they brought.

WHAT DOES 'ISLAM' MEAN?

WHAT DOES 'ISLAM' MEAN?

The Arabic word 'Islam' simply means 'submission', and derives from a word meaning 'peace'. In a religious context it means complete submission to the will of God.'Mohammedanism' is thus a misnomer because it suggests that Muslims worship Muhammad rather than God. 'Allah' is the Arabic name for God, which is used by Arab Muslims and Christians alike.

WHY DOES ISLAM OFTEN SEEM STRANGE?

Islam may seem exotic or even extreme in the modern world. Perhaps this is because religion does not dominate everyday life in the West today, whereas Muslims have religion always uppermost in their minds, and make no division between secular and sacred. They believe that the Divine Law, the Shari'a, should be taken very seriously, which is why issues related to religion are still so important.

DO ISLAM AND CHRISTIANITY HAVE DIFFERENT ORIGINS?

No. Together with Judaism, they go back to the prophet and patriarch Abraham, and their three prophets are directly descended from his sons Muhammad from the eldest, Ishmael, and Moses and Jesus from Isaac. Abraham established the settlement which today is the city of Makkah, and built the Ka'abah towards which all Muslims turn when they pray.

WHAT IS THE QUR'AN?

WHAT IS THE QUR'AN?

The Qur'an is a record of the exact words revealed by God through the Angel Gabriel to the Prophet Muhammad. It was memorized by Muhammad and then dictated to his Companions, and written down by scribes, who cross-checked it during his lifetime. Not one word of its 114 chapters, Suras, has been changed over the centuries, so that the Qur'an is in every detail the unique and miraculous text which was revealed to Muhammad fourteen centuries ago.

WHAT IS THE QUR'AN ABOUT?

The Qur'an, the last revealed Word of God, is the prime source of every Muslim's faith and practice. It deals with all the subjects which concern us as human beings: wisdom, doctrine, worship, and law, but its basic theme is the relationship between God and His creatures. At the same time it provides guidelines for a just society, proper human conduct and an equitable economic system.

ARE THERE ANY OTHER SACRED SOURCES?

Yes, the Sunna, the practice and example of the Prophet, is the second authority for Muslims. A Hadith is a reliably transmitted report of what the Prophet said, did, or approved. Belief in the Sunna is part of the Islamic faith.

FIVE PILLARS' OF ISLAM

WHAT ARE THE 'FIVE PILLARS' OF ISLAM?

They are the framework of the Muslim life: faith, prayer, concern for the needy, self-purification, and the pilgrimage to Makkah for those who are able.

1. FAITH

There is no god worthy of worship except God and Muhammad is His messenger. This declaration of faith is called the Shahada, a simple formula which all the faithful pronounce. In Arabic, the first part is la ilaha illa'Llah - 'there is no god except God'; ilaha (god) can refer to anything which we may be tempted to put in place of God -- wealth, power, and the like. Then comes illa'Llah:' except God, the source of all Creation. The second part of the Shahada is Muhammadun rasulu'Llah: 'Muhammad is the messenger of God'. A message of guidance has come through a man like ourselves.
A translation of the Call to Prayer is:
God is most great. God is most great.
God is most great. God is most great.
I testify that there is no god except God.
I testify that there is no god except God.
I testify that Muhammad is the messenger of God.
I testify that Muhammad is the messenger of God.
Come to prayer! Come to prayer!
Come to success (in this life and the Hereafter)! Come to success!
God is most great. God is most great.
There is no god except God.

2. PRAYER

Salah is the name for the obligatory prayers which are performed five times a day, and are a direct link between the worshipper and God. There is no hierarchical authority in Islam, and no priests, so the prayers are led by a learned person who knows the Qur'an, chosen by the congregation. These five prayers contain verses from the Qur'an, and are said in Arabic, the language of the Revelation, but personal supplication can be offered in one's own language.
Prayers are said at dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset and nightfall, and thus determine the rhythm of the entire day. Although it is preferable to worship together in a mosque, a Muslim may pray almost anywhere, such as in fields, offices, factories and universities. Visitors to the Muslim world are struck by the centrality of prayers in daily life.

3. THE "ZAKAT"

One of the most important principles of Islam is that all things belong to God, and that wealth is therefore held by human beings in trust. The word zakat means both 'purification' and 'growth'. Our possessions are purified by setting aside a proportion for those in need, and, like the pruning of plants, this cutting back balances and encourages new growth.
Each Muslim calculates his or her own zakat individually. For most purposes this involves the payment each year of two and a half percent of one's capital. A pious person may also give as much as he or she pleases as sadaqa, and does so preferably in secret. Although this word can be translated as 'voluntary charity' it has a wider meaning. The Prophet said "even meeting your brother with a cheerful face is charity." The Prophet said:
"Charity is a necessity for every Muslim."
He was asked: "What if a person has nothing?"
The Prophet replied: "He should work with his own hands for his benefit and then give something out of such earnings in charity"
The Companions asked: "What if he is not able to work?"
The Prophet said: "He should help poor and needy persons."
The Companions further asked "What is he cannot do even that?"
The Prophet said "He should urge others to do good'."
The Companions said "What if he lacks that also?"
The Prophet said "He should check himself from doing evil. That is also charity."

4. THE FAST

Every year in the month of Ramadan, all Muslims fast from first light until sundown, abstaining from food, drink, and ***ual relations. Those who are sick, elderly, or on a journey, and women who are pregnant or nursing are permitted to break the fast and make up an equal number of days later in the year. If they are physically unable to do this, they must feed a needy person for every day missed. Children begin to fast (and to observe the prayer) from puberty, although many start earlier.
Although the fast is most beneficial to the health, it is regarded principally as a method of self-purification. By cutting oneself off from worldly comforts, even for a short time, a fasting person gains true sympathy with those who go hungry as well as growth in one's spiritual life.

5. PILGRIMAGE (Hajj)

The annual pilgrimage to Makkah -- the Hajj -- is an obligation only for those who are physically and financially able to perform it. Nevertheless, about two million people go to Makkah each year from every corner of the globe providing a unique opportunity for those of different nations to meet one another. Although Makkah is always filled with visitors, the annual Hajj begins in the twelfth month of the Islamic year (which is lunar, not solar, so that Hajj and Ramadan fall sometimes in summer, sometimes in winter). Pilgrims wear special clothes: simple garments which strip away distinctions of class and culture, so that all stand equal before God.
The rites of the Hajj, which are of Abrahamic origin, include circling the Ka'abah seven times, and going seven times between the mountains of Safa and Marwa as did Hagar during her search for water. Then the pilgrims stand together on the wide plain of Arafa and join in prayers for God's forgiveness, in what is often thought of as a preview of the Last Judgement.
In previous centuries the Hajj was an arduous undertaking. Today, however, Saudi Arabia provides millions of people with water, modern transport, and the most up-to-date health facilities.
The close of the Hajj is marked by a festival, the Eid al-Adha, which is celebrated with prayers and the exchange of gifts in Muslim communities everywhere. This, and the Eid al-Fitr, a feast-day commemorating the end of Ramadan, are the main festivals of the Muslim calendar.

Ramzaan

Ramzaan

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and there are several reasons why it is considered important:

• The Qur’an was first revealed during this month
• The gates of Heaven are open
• The gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained up in Hell.

The Qur'an revealed

“The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong)”[al-Baqarah 2:185]

The actual night that the Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad is called Lailat ul Qadr, and to stand in prayer on this one night is said to be better than a thousand months of worship.
Ramadan is often called ‘month of the Qur’an’ because of this, and Muslims attempt to recite as much of the Qur’an as they can during the month. Most mosques will recite one thirtieth of the Qur’an each night during the Taraweeh prayers.
No one knows on which particular night the Qur'an was first revealed, but it is said to be one of the last ten nights of Ramadan.
The gates of Heaven are open and the gates of Hell are closed

It was narrated from Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “When Ramadan comes, the gates of Paradise are opened and the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are put in chains.”(Agreed upon)

Muslims believe that their good actions bring a greater reward during this month than at any other time of year, because this month has been blessed by Allah.
They also believe that it is easier to do good in this month because the devils have been chained in Hell, and so can't tempt believers. This doesn’t mean that Muslims will not behave badly, but that any evil that they do comes from within themselves, without additional encouragement from Satan.
Almost all Muslims try to give up bad habits during Ramadan, and some will try to become better Muslims by praying more or reading the Qur’an.
Muslims believe that this is one way that the chaining up of the devils is manifested, since there is no other reason for them to do so.
Special practices

There are a number of special practices which are only done during Ramadan.
Fasting the whole month long

Although Muslims fast during other times of the year, Ramadan is the only time when fasting, or sawm, is obligatory during the entire month for every able Muslim.
Ramadan is intended to increase self-control in all areas, including food, sleeping, *** and the use of time.
Taraweeh Prayers

These are long night prayers, which are not obligatory, but highly recommended.
Mosques are filled with worshippers who go to attend these prayers, which usually last for one and a half to two hours.
These prayers also give Muslims a chance to meet at the mosque every day, and so they also help to improve relationships in the Muslim community.
I’tikaf

I’tikaf refers to going into seclusion during the last ten nights of Ramadan, in order to seek Lailat ul Qadr by praying and reading the Qur’an. Some people live in the mosque during this time for serious reflection and worship. Others spend a few hours at the mosque or home.

Mosque

Mosque

Muslims worship in a building called a mosque. An alternative word for mosque, from the original Arabic, is masjid, meaning place of prostration.
Outside every mosque, or just inside the entrance, is a place where worshippers can remove and leave their shoes. There is also a place where they can carry out the ritual washing required before prayer.
The main hall of a mosque is a bare room largely devoid of furniture. There are no pictures or statues. Muslims believe these are blasphemous, since there can be no image of Allah, who is wholly spirit.
Everyone sits on the floor and everywhere in the mosque is equal in status.
A niche in one of the walls, called a mihrab, shows the direction that the worshippers should face in order to face Mecca.
Many mosques have a minaret which is a tall thin tower. A muezzin stands at the top of the tower and calls Muslims to prayer at the five ritual times of the day. Not all mosques in the UK have a minaret.
Women can attend the mosque and when they do they sit separately from the men. This is out of modesty and to prevent any distraction. It is more usual for women to pray at home.

Concept of Masjid in Islam

Concept of Masjid in Islam

Uses Of The Mosque

Importance of the mosque
The mosque was one of the first institutions established by the Messenger of Allah (saw) after the hijrah to Madinah in 622 CE; and to emphasis its important role, he (saw) personally took part in its construction.

The mosque has always been central to the affairs of the Muslim Ummah throughout the history of Islam. It played a key role in maintaining the unified body of the Muslims and acted as a springboard for the Islamic da‘wah to the rest of the world, as opposed to the mundane role that it plays today.

The roles of the mosque

During the time of the Messenger of Allah (saw), the emphasis was on the essence of the mosque rather than its physical appearance. Today the haste for building and decorating the mosque is more so than actually using it for the purpose that it designed for. The Messenger of Allah (saw) showed us the different roles that the mosque plays. The mosque is the place of prayer, it is a place for learning and teaching, it is a resting place for the travellers, a hospital for the sick, an eating place for the hungry and the needy and last but not the least, it was the head quarters of the Islamic State’s leadership.

Construction of mosques

Islam has made it an obligation on the Islamic State to build and maintain the mosque, and a mandub act for the individuals. It has been reported on the authority of ‘Uthman ibn ‘Affan that the Messenger of Allah (saw) said, “He who builds a mosque for the sake of Allah, seeking the pleasure of Allah, will be rewarded by Allah with a dwelling in Heaven.”

Allah's Masajid Or Leaders' Fortresses

When Muhammad (saw) established the Islamic State in Medina, the Masjid that he constructed served a multitude of functions that were instrumental in maintaining the integrity and solidarity of the State. Muslims would gather within the Masjid walls to exchange ideas, discuss the vital issues that confronted them, and to administer the functions of the State. In the Masjid, the Prophet (saw) taught Islam to the Muslims, met with non-Muslim delegates, judged among people, set armies on missions, etc. The Masajid provided an open forum for the circulation and cultivation of ideas that served to maintain the elevated intellectual status and clarity of Islamic concepts in the minds of the public.

Throughout the Islamic State, the Masajid helped to sustain the vibrancy and dynamism of Islamic concepts as centres of education, exchanging ideas, and discussing the problems and contemporary issues of the Ummah with enlightenment. Today, in the absence of Islam as a political force and the resulting subjugation of the Ummah by Kufr from all fronts, the Masajid possess a vital role in the process of revival that the Muslims cannot afford to underestimate or overlook.

In the absence of the Khilafah as a strong political entity to shield the Ummah, Muslims today feel stranded, alone, and isolated, like stray sheep surrounded by wolves with no shepherd to shelter them. The Masajid provide a place for Muslims to converge and reinstate the feeling of unity and brotherhood that centuries of intellectual onslaught by the Kuffar has dampened and the political disunity maintained by the Muslim regimes continues to censor. As community centres where Muslims gather to exchange ideas and invest in indoctrinating their families and youth with Islamic education, the Masajid should ideally assume the role of revitalising the Islamic way of life by serving as the crucible that melts away the thoughts and ideas of Kufr and feeds the flame of the Islamic revival.

Unfortunately, those who have assumed the position of leadership have, through their personal interests and political submission to the interests of the Kuffar, caused the Masajid to fail miserably in nurturing brotherhood and consolidation among the Ummah and in empowering the Islamic revival by consolidating the Ummah's resources towards re-establishing the Khilafah and revitalising the Ummah's political initiative in the world. Instead of providing an open forum for the circulation of ideas and the development of Islamic thought, the Masajid have metamorphosed from instruments of Islamic revival and veins of solidarity among the Ummah into fortresses teeming with security where the development and exchange of ideas remain under tight scrutiny and the affairs of the Ummah barred and stagnated by rigid shackles of control.

Rather than serving as the crucible where Kufr melts and Islam ignites, such fortress-Masajid maintain an Ice-Box atmosphere that works to harden the existing Kufr and freeze the momentum of the masses in initiating a change in the Ummah's deplorable status quo. The control rod that manifests the fortress environment radiates from a static hierarchical pyramid of “leaders,” prominent scholars, and others bearing titles of eminence, who have handcuffed themselves in diligent servitude to their Lords in the West, in exchange for a lifetime of service by endeavouring day and night to kill the fruits of the Islamic Da’wah. Such “leaders” - as they have the audacity to announce themselves as such - have exchanged the Deen of Allah (swt) for the transient pleasures of this life by bartering the Ayat of Allah (swt) for a few crumbs thrown to them by their masters in the White House and the Land of Saud in much the same way as a pedestrian throws crumbs of bread on the park curb for the flocks of birds who scavenge the sewage muck.

A person who p***ges himself into such an environment in a quest to experience a sense of belonging and self-revival but lacking the political sharpness to realise who resides at the control panels would discover to his dismay that he is alone, everything around him moves in a controlled, monotonous fashion, and forces act from all directions to mould him into the static ineffectiveness of a life of donations, writing letters, baseless khutbas, and a showering epic tale conferences that provide an abundance of glamour but a scarcity of solutions. Most of the Ummah who seek to nurture their children with Islamic personalities and contribute their resources towards reviving the Muslims from their bleak status quo are unsuspectingly swept by the currents of assimilation into the tasteless, stagnant life of “20th century Islam” which stifles the dynamism of the Islamic Da’wah with the democratisation of Islam.

Those who assume the intellectual initiative and emulate the Seerah of the Prophet (saw) in working towards restructuring the society according to the Shariah suffer a fate much worse. As soon as they raise their voice and begin calling for the total implementation of Islam and the destruction of all facets of Kufr, the fortress walls descend for the kill. Such an ideological personality - one that truly would spearhead the Ummah's revival - is instead silenced, his name and reputation tossed between weddings, conferences, banquets and gatherings and stripped of its dignity by a vicious backbiting campaign. All relations are abruptly severed between him and the community, and, whenever he steps into the Masjid, conference, or gathering, he receives cold, empty stares, he finds his words and advice resounding off deaf ears, and he finds himself alone - a stranger in the world that he belongs.

The mere presence of the fortress style of administration smacks of mockery and contempt. During the early Islamic State, even the Khalifah slept without guards, yet today, as mute testimony to the state of the Ummah, armies of security squadrons patrol the Muslims within their own Masajid to fend the relentless onslaught of the malevolent, ominous danger of a few Muslims and their vicious, atrocious tactics of asking questions or demanding a daleel. In the meantime, the Khateeb or speaker stands tall and dignified, a beacon of hope and enlightenment whose Kufr-stained words and Kufr-trained Ph.D. and Kufr-maimed ideas all combine to polish the Daii's prison halls and beef up the masjid's fortress walls.

Those who wish to reinstitute the Houses of Allah (swt) towards their rightful status must strive to topple the fortress walls that guard the Kufr that seeps into the Muslim mind and jails the Islamic thoughts from attaining fruition. As it stands today, those, in charge of administering the affairs of the Ummah and directing the revival process have renovated the Masajid into citadels that bar the Ummah from its intellectual and cultural identity and allow Kufr thoughts and ideas to flourish within its confines by issuing drugs every Jum'a to those who reside within its battalions and mesmerise the Ummah into an opious pattern of begging the Kuffar, chasing abstract concepts of unity and revival mottled with human innovation and imagination, and attending lavish banquets and seminars devoid of tangible solutions. The Ummah must strive to reconstruct the Masajid as open forums where any person, group, or institution from within its body can present its ideas and the Ummah, untainted or distracted by any vague, ambiguous ideas or erroneous concepts, can evaluate all of the possibilities and, naturally arrive at the correct solution and establish from within itself the correct structure that will initiate the correct revival. The Masajid belong to Allah (swt) and His Messenger (saw) and not to the Horde of Directors or any other honeycomb from any rulers' beehive.
“And Masajid belong to Allah, so call none next to Him.” [TMQ Al-Jinn: 18]

During the days of the Sahabah and their successors, the Masajid were an open platform for all types of Islamic thought. When Omar became the 2nd Khalifah, he gave his inauguration speech saying, "If you see crookedness in me correct it ...” A man stood up waving his sword and said, "O Omar, if we see crookedness in You, we will correct it with our sword." The man addressed the Khalifah of all Muslims, he did not address an Imam of a Masjid. This honourable companion and Khalifah did not do what Muslims nowadays do. He did not throw him out of the Masjid or call him a trouble maker. He said, "Al-Hamdulillah that He (swt) created in the Ummah of Muhammad someone who corrects Omar with his sword."

The Format of Salah (Prayer)

The Format of Salah (prayer)

a) Salatul-Fajr, or dawn prayer, consisting of two supererogatory rak'aat followed by two obligatory rak'aat during which the Qur'anic passages are recited loudly. Its time is from dawn to sunrise.

b) Salat adth-Dhuhr, the noonday prayer; two rak'aat followed by another two supererogatory. Then four obligatory with quiet recitation, and then two more supererogatory rak'aat. It is performed after the moment the sun passes its zenith until the time of Asr.

c) Salat al-Asr, the late afternoon prayer, consists of only four obligatory rak'aat. with quiet recitation. It is performed when the shadow of a vertical stick becomes equal to the length of the stick until just before sunset.

d) Salat al-Maghrib prayer, consists of three obligatory rak'aat , the first two of which are recited in audible voice, while the third is recited quietly. The three obligatory rak'aat are followed by two supererogatory ones. This prayer may be performed as soon as the sun sinks below the horizon until the red glow disappears, but is best performed immediately after sunset.

e) Salat al-Isha', or night prayer. Its four rak'aat, the first two are recited in audible voice and the last two quietly. They are followed by two supererogatory rak'aat. It is performed after the onset of night until the dawn, but are preferably performed before midnight. An additional two rak’aat followed by odd one, called witr may be prayed before going to sleep.

Besides the five prescribed daily prayer, there are also certain special congregational prayers that are in common observance. The most important of them is the Jum'ah, Friday congregational prayer performed in place of the normal noon prayer. It can only be performed in congregation following a khutbah, or preaching delivered by the imam. There are also special prayers for time of lunar or solar eclipse. Another prayer called Salatul-Istisqaa' time of drought, a two rak'at prayer supplicating Allah for rain. It is to be performed by the community in the open. Janazah, funeral prayer, is performed for the recently dead by the mourners and by anyone present in the masjid at the time. Salatul-Khawf, (prayer of fear), is performed in place of normal prayer in the battlefield. A-Eedain prayers, for the two annual festivals, the first al-Fitr, which marks the end of the Fasting month of Ramadhan and the al-Adh-ha, the sacrificial festival which marks the end of the Pilgrimage.

There are some arkan or fundamental requirements that must be observed in order that the prayer be accepted:

(1) An-niyyah (intention), i.e., stating in mind what prayer service one proposes to perform.

(2) Takbiratul-al-ihram (sanctification), i.e., pronouncing takbeer [saying. “Allahu akbar”, whereby the worshipper cuts himself off from profane things for the period of prayer]

(3) Al-qiyam (standing), i.e., taking up one’s position standing, facing the qiblah and ready for prayer.

(4) Al-qira’ah (recitation), i.e., the recitation of the Fatihah (Surah 1) and some other portion from the Qur’an.

(5) Ar-ruku’ (bowing), i.e., bending the body so that the palms grab the knees.

(6) As-sujud (prostration of obeisance), i.e., going down on hands and knees so that the forehead touches the praying place.

(7) At-tasleem (salutation), which ends the formal prayer.

(8) At-tarteeb (arrangement), i.e., performing all the above in proper sequence.

Prayer is one of the greatest pillars of Islam. It is the first act of worship about which man shall be questioned about on the Day of Reckoning. If Prayer of a Muslim is accepted by Allah, then the rest of man's good deeds are accepted too.(46)

3) Zakah, means "purification". consists of giving up a certain percentage of the wealth one may possess for a whole lunar year to be given to needy Muslims in order thereby to purify or legitimize one’s wealth and property. Zakah is one of the greatest financial institutions of Islam as practical sharing with those less fortunate, the bounty one receives from Allah. A sharing which reflects characteristics of a true Muslim. Zakah is levied annually on certain types of food, grain, cattle, and cash retained for one lunar calendar year to be given out to the poor, the needy, and other specified classes of people. The amount due varies according to different kinds of properties.

4) Sawm (fasting) is to be observed during the month of Ramadhan (the ninth month of the Muslim lunar calendar). The beginning of the fasting is announced in all Muslim countries by the appearance of the new moon of Ramadhan, and ends with the appearance of the new moon of Shawwal. All Muslims in normal health abstain from food, drink,(47) and ***ual enjoyment from dawn to sunset.

Fasting is a beneficial act of worship that helps one who observes it to attain piety and humbleness and to share the feelings of the bereft and hungry in the community so as to be more benevolent and charitable. Meritorious fasting is also recommended on various occasions throughout the year.

5) Hajj or pilgrimage to the sacred sites in certain Makkan areas, each with its own special rites and ceremonies is an elaborate series of symbolic acts requiring several days for their accomplishment. It is performed at a particular period of the Islamic year at the al-Masjid al-Haram, the Sacred Masjid in Makkah, and in Mina, Muzdalifah and Arafat, which are the places directly adjacent to Makkah. is obligatory for those whose health and means permit it once in a lifetime(48). Umrah (49)however, is voluntary act of worship. The Hajj rites take place during the Islamic or lunar months of Shawwal, Dthul-Qi'dah, and the first ten days of Dthu-Hijjah only. It is a pre-condition for the pilgrim to enter the state of ihram (50) at a certain point before entering the boundaries of Makkah.

Zakat

Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam. It has been mentioned, along with daily Prayers (Salaat / Namaz), over seventy times in the Quran. Allah's word commanding ".....and establish regular Salaat and give regular Zakat....." are referred to in many parts of the Quran. From this we can conclude that after Salaat, Zakat is the most important act in Islam.Just as Salaat is the most important act of worship which has to be performed bodily, so is Zakat the main act of worship which has to be performed monetarily. Those who fulfill this duty have been promised abundant reward in this world and hereafter. Whoever evades Zakat has been sternly warned in the Qur'an and Hadith of the consequences.Linguistically, Zakat has two meanings: purification and growth. Technically, it means to purify one's possession of wealth by distributing a prescribed amount to the poor, the indigent, the slaves or captives, and the wayfarer.There are many major benefits of giving Zakat:

• It reminds Muslims of the fact that whatever wealth they may possess is due to the blessings of Allah and as such it is to be spent according to the His commands.
• Zakat functions as a social security for all. Those who have enough money today pay for what they have. If they need money tomorrow they will get what is necessary to help them live decently.
• Zakat payer pays his dues to Allah as an act of worship, a token of submission and an acknowledgment of gratitude. The receiver of Zakat receives it as a grant from Allah out of His bounty, a favor for which he is thankful to Allah.
• Economically, Zakat is the best check against hoarding. Those who do not invest their wealth but prefer to save or hoard it would see their wealth dwindling year after year at the rate of the payable Zakat. This helps increase production and stimulates supply because it is a redistribution of income that enhances the demand by putting more real purchasing power in the hands of poor.

Zakat is obligatory upon a person if :

• He or she is an adult, sane, free and Muslim.
• He/she must possess wealth in excess of specified minimum (Nisaab) excluding his or her personal needs (clothing, household furniture, utensils, cars etc. are termed article of personal needs).
• It should be possessed for a complete lunar year.
• It should be of productive nature from which one can derive profit or benefit such as merchandise for business, gold, silver, livestock etc.

The amount of wealth which makes one liable for Zakat is called Nisaab. The Nisaab as fixed by Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) is as follows: GramsTolasGrainsTroy Oz.GOLD87.487.5013502.8125SILVER612.3652.50945019.6875Nisaab of cash, stock or bonds, other cash assets is the equivalent amount of Gold or Silver. Nisaab is calculated by adding up the cash value of all the assets such as gold, silver, currency etc. and if it is equal to or in excess of the minimum Nisaab as specified in the above table, the Zakat is due at the rate of 2.5%.The payment of Zakat is compulsory on the excess wealth or effects which is equal to or exceeds the value of Nisaab, and which is possessed for a full Islamic year. If such wealth decreases during the course of the year and increases again to the value of Nisaab before the end of the year, the Zakat then must be calculated on the full amount that is possessed at the end of the year.TYPES OF WEALTH ON WHICH ZAKAT IS IMPOSED:

1. Gold and silver, in any form.
2. Cash, bank notes, stocks, bonds etc.
3. Merchandise for business, equal to the value of Nisaab.
4. Live stock.
5. On income derived from rental business.

CALCULATION OF ZAKAT:

1. To calculate Zakat on jewelry etc. one must first determine the gold or silver content and then calculate the Zakat according to current market price.
2. If the Gold possessed is less than 87.48 grams or if silver possessed is less then 612.36 grams, but the value of both combined is equal to or exceeds the Nisaab of either Gold or Silver, the Zakat will be due.
3. In the event of an article not being of pure gold or pure silver, but containing a mixture of other metals and the gold or silver content is more than the other metal, it will be regarded as gold or silver and Zakat will be due. But in the case where other metal/s is of greater quantity than either gold or silver, Zakat will not be due on this article.
4. For stocks (shares held in a company), Zakat is calculated based upon the current market value. As machinery, land, fixtures and fittings, furniture, buildings etc. are exempt from Zakat, one is allowed to subtract these from the total asset. This could be obtained from annual reports. For example, if one has shares worth $1000 and machinery, land etc., are worth 5% of the total asset, then deduct $50 for these assets, afterwards deduct the liabilities of the company proportionately to the percentage of shares held. Zakat must be calculated on the balance.

DISTRIBUTION OF ZAKAT:

1. Zakat should be given as soon as possible after it becomes due.
2. All of the Zakat can be given to one person or to several persons.
3. A poor man cannot be paid for his work from Zakat nor can Zakat be given in payment of services, except to the people appointed by the Islamic government to collect Zakat.
4. Zakat will only be valid if the recipient is made the owner of that amount. If, for example, a few needy persons are fed a meal from Zakat money, then Zakat will not be fulfilled as they were not made owners of the food.
5. Zakat cannot be given for the construction of Masjid, Madrasah, Hospital, a well, a bridge or any other public amenity.
6. Zakat can be paid in kind from the same merchandise on which it is due, or alternatively, it could be paid in cash.

TYPES OF WEALTH ON WHICH ZAKAT IS NOT IMPOSED:

1. On any metals other than gold or silver.
2. Fixtures and fittings of a shop, car, trucks or any delivery vehicle etc., which is used in running business.
3. Diamonds, pearls, other precious or semi precious stones which are for personal use.
4. There is no Zakat on personal residence, household furniture, pots and pan, personal clothing, whether they are in use or not.
5. There is no Zakat on a person whose liabilities exceed or equal his assets. (Home Mortgage in this country is not to be counted as personal liability for the Zakat purpose).

RECIPIENTS OF ZAKAT:The recipients of Zakat, according to Quran are as follows:"Alms are for the poor and the needy, and those employed to administer (the funds); for those whose hearts have been (recently) reconciled (to truth); for those in bondage and in debt; and for the wayfarer: (Thus is it) ordained by Allah, and Allah is full of Knowledge and Wisdom." (Quran 9:60)

1. FUQARA: people who are poor and who possess more than their basic needs but do not possess wealth equal to Nisaab.
2. MASAKEEN: people who are destitute and extremely needy to the extent they are forced to beg for their daily food rations.
3. AL-AMILEEN: people appointed by an Islamic Government to collect Zakat.
4. MU-ALLAFATUL-QULUB: persons who have recently accepted Islam and are in need of basic necessities who would benefit from encouragement by Muslims which would help strengthen their faith.
5. AR-RIQAAB: slaves who are permitted to work for remuneration and have an agreement from their masters to purchase their freedom on payment of fixed amounts.
6. AL-GHAARIMEEN: persons who have a debt and do not possess any other wealth or goods with which they could repay that which they owe. It is conditional that this debt was not created for any un-Islamic purpose.
7. FI-SABILILLAH: persons who have to carry out an obligatory deed which has become obligatory on them and subsequently (due to loss of wealth) are unable to complete that obligation.
8. IBN-US-SABEEL: persons who are travelers and during the course of their journey do not possess basic necessities, though they are well to do at home. They could be given Zakat in order to fulfill travel needs to return home.

PERSONS WHO CANNOT BE GIVEN ZAKAT:

1. Zakat cannot be given to the descendants of Muhammad (P.B.U.H);
2. Zakat cannot be given to parents and grandparents. In the same manner one's children and grandchildren cannot be given Zakat. A husband and wife cannot give Zakat to each other.
3. Zakat contributions cannot be given to such institutions or organizations who do not give the rightful recipients possession of Zakat, but instead use Zakat funds for constructions, investment or salaries.

VIRTUES OF ZAKAT:Allah says in the Quran:"The parable of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is that of a grain of corn. It grows seven ears and each ear has hundred grains. Allah increases manifold to whom He pleases." (Quran 2:261)It is stated in the Hadith that by giving Zakat the following benefits are derived:

1. Gain the pleasure of Allah.
2. Increase in wealth and protection from losses.
3. Allah's forgiveness and blessings.
4. Protection from the wrath of Allah and from a bad death.
5. A shelter on the Day of Judgment;
6. Security from seventy misfortunes.

THE PUNISHMENT FOR NOT GIVING ZAKAT:Allah says in the Quran:"And there are those who hoard gold and silver and do not spend it in the way of Allah, announce to them a most grievous penalty (when) on the Day of Judgment heat will be produced out of that wealth in the fire of Hell. Then with it they will be branded on their forehead and their flanks and backs. (It will be said to them) This is the treasure which you hoarded for yourselves, taste then the treasure that you have been hoarding." (Al-Quran 9:34-35)

Islamic Etiquette and Manners

Islamic Etiquette and Manners

1) Should greatly respect Parents and follow their orders (within Islamic Law).

2) Should greatly respect Islamic Teachers and Scholars.

3) Should greatly respect Quran. It's HARAM to touch Quran without Wazoo. Should respect Islamic Books and Literature too.

4) Should greatly respect the direction of Qibla. It's prohibited to extend ones feet towards Qibla and to sleep while feet are extended towards Qibla.

5) Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him) should be respected and loved more than anyone in the world. Whenever hear his lovely name always say Dorood, at least say Sallal Laho Alaihe Wasalam.

6) Azan should be heard with great concentration and should be answered (repeating the words after every sentence). It is prohibited to talk during Azan.

7) Should be quite when performing Wazoo should not talk to others. Should recite Dua or Dorood during Wazoo.

8) Should eat only Halal and Clean food. Should never ever eat Haram food.

9) Should recite Quran everyday.

10) Must pray five times a day, on time.

11) Should avoid every bad conversation and every bad habit.

12) It is a Great Sin to Dance, to Listen to Music, to Sing songs and to make images or to take photos of living beings ( Human and Animals).

13) Always avoid Lies, Back Biting and Tale Bearing.

14) Always keep your body, cloths and home clean.

15) There is no greater deed than to Learn and Teach Islamic Knowledge. Should never be ashamed of asking any Islamic Question.

16) Should always treat every one with great respect and manners.

17) Children should not call their parents with their names and a wife should never call her husband with his name.

18) It is a bad manner to extend your feet towards elders.

19) Should always respect elderly people and if they are sitting on floor, children should never sit on a chair.

Hell

what is hell

Q1: What is hell?

A. Allah Almighty has created a dreadful place for the chastisement and punishment of infidels, disbelievers and sinners which is called "Jahannam" (hell). It has seventy thousand dangerous and horrendous valleys with each valley having seventy thousand similar horrid dells and pits. These valleys, dells and pits are infested with innumerable frightful scorpions, serpents and dragons.

Q 2: What is in hell?

A. There are varied torments in hell. It is dreadful even to think of the torments therein. In sum, it has the torments of fire, chilling cold, snakes, scorpions, poisonous animals etc. The flames of its fire rage high unabatedly and overtake the infidels with violent force. The fuel of hell is humanbeings and stones.

Q 3: How will a sinful believer be absolved?

A. A believer will ultimately be absolved irrespective of his myriad sins and admitted into paradise either by the blessing of Allah Almighty or the intercession of His Darling Elect Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa (may Allah's choicest blessings and peace be upon him) or having served his term of punishment in hell. Paradise is the last and ultimate abode of believers wherein they will live eternally.

Q 4: Is there any absolution for infidels or not?

A. The major sins of infidelity and polytheism will never be absolved. Infidels and polytheists will live eternally in hell and face different sorts of torments. They will also be locked in boxes of fire which will be encased in other fire boxes. Every infidel and polytheist will think that it is the last chastisement but they will get no relief and keep suffering torments upon torments.

paradise

Q 1: What is paradise?

A. Paradise is an abode of endless bliss which Allah Almighty has created for the believers. It is comprised of one hundred classes and the distance between two classes is like that of the distance between the earth and heavens. Each heaven is so vast and spacious that there will remain enough room if the whole world with all its contents is placed therein.

Q 2: What is in paradise?

A. Allah Almighty has created such paraphernalia of physical and spiritual bliss and felicity in it that is unseen, unheard, un-imagined and undreamt of. Even an emperor and king can not enjoy such pleasures and facilities which will be available to the inmates of the lowest class of the paradise.

Q 3: Which will be the greatest blessing in paradise?

A. The greatest favour with which the believers will be graced in heavens is the "vision(sight) of Allah". All divine boons, bounties and favours will be eclipsed by Allah's vision. Once believers had it they would get absorbed in its exquisite ecstasy for ever.

Q 4: How many believers will be entered into heavens?

A. The Holy Prophet said that of my bondslaves, seventy thousands would be admitted into heavens without any "reckoning". Everyone of them would take a group of seventy thousand believers with him into paradise. Allah Almighty would yet grace them and three more multitudes of believers would accompany them. The exact number of believers who will be entered into heavens is known to Allah or His Choicest Prophet whom Allah Almighty has endowed with such knowledge.

Best Times to make Dua (Supplication)

Best Times to make Dua (Supplication)

There are certain times dua (supplication) is more likely to be accepted by Allah (SWT) as mentioned by Prophet (SAW). These times are as follows:

1. The Last Third Of The Night
Abu Hurairah (RA) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (SAW) said: 'In the last third of every night our Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer) (Allah (SWT)) descends to the lowermost heaven and says; "Who is calling Me, so that I may answer him? Who is asking Me so that may I grant him? Who is seeking forgiveness from Me so that I may forgive him?."' [Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith Qudsi]

Amr ibn Absah narrated that the Prophet said: 'The closest any worshipper can be to His Lord is during the last part of the night, so if you can be amongst those who remember Allah at that time, then do so.'[at-Tirmidhi, an-Nasa'i, al-Hakim - Sahih]

2. Late at night
When people are sleeping and busy with worldly pleasures Allah (SWT) gives the believers an opportunity, or an answer hour if they can fight sleep and invoke Allah (SWT) for whatever they need. The Prophet (SAW) said: 'There is at night an hour, no Muslim happens to be asking Allah any matter of this world or the Hereafter, except that he will be given it, and this (occurs) every night.'
[Muslim #757]

3. Between Adhan and Iqamah
Anas (RA) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (SAW) said: 'A supplication made between the Adhan and Iqama is not rejected.'
[Ahmad, abu Dawud #521, at-Tirmidhi #212, Sahih al-Jami #3408, an-Nasai and Ibn Hibban graded it sahih (sound)]

4. An Hour On Friday
Narrated Abu Hurairah (RA): Allah’s Messenger (SAW) talked about Friday and said: 'There is an hour on Friday and if a Muslim gets it while offering Salat (prayer) and asks something from Allah (SWT), then Allah (SWT) will definitely meet his demand.' And he (the Prophet (SAW) pointed out the shortness of that particular time with his hands.[Sahih al-Bukhari]

Some have said that this hour is from the time the Imam (prayer’s leader) enters the mosque on Friday’s prayer until the prayer is over (ie between the two khutbahs), whereas others have said that it is the last hour of the day (ie after the Asr prayer until the Maghrib prayer).

5. While Drinking Zamzam Water
Jaber (RA) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (SAW) said: 'Zamzam water is for what it is drunk for.' [Ahmad 3: 357 and Ibn Majah #3062]. This means that when you drink Zamzam water you may ask Allah (SWT) for anything you like to gain or benefit from this water such as healing from illness.... etc.

6. While Prostrating
Abu Hurairah (RA) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (SAW), said: 'The nearest a slave can be to his Lord is when he is prostrating, so invoke (supplicate) Allah (SWT) much in it. [Muslim, abu Dawud, an-Nasa'i and others, Sahih al-Jami #1175]

When a Muslim is in his Salat (prayer) he is facing Allah (SWT) and when he prostrates he is the nearest he can be to Allah (SWT) so it is best to invoke Allah (SWT) at this time. It is said that while in prostration, one should not ask for worldy needs (ie a nice car, a new job, etc), but for the Hereafter.

7. When Waking Up at Night
Narrated Ubada Bin As-Samit that Allah’s Messenger (SAW) said: 'Whomever wakes up at night and says La ilaha illallahu wahdahu la shrika lahu lahulmulku, wa lahul hamdu, wa huwa ala kulli shai'in qadir. Alhamdu lillahi, wa subhanallahi wa la ilaha illallahu, wallah akbir, wa la hawla wala quwata illa billah (none has the right to be worshipped but Allah (SWT) He is the only one who has no partners. His is the kingdom and all the praises are for Allah (SWT) All the glories are for Allah (SWT) And none has the right to be worshipped but Allah (SWT) and Allah (SWT) is the most Great and there is neither might nor power except with Allah (SWT) and then says, Allahumma ighfir li (O Allah! Forgive me) or invokes Allah (SWT), he will be responded to and if he makes ablution and performs Salat (prayer), his Salat (prayer) will be accepted. [Sahih al-Bukhari]

8. At The End Of The Obligatory Salat:
Narrated Abu Omamah (RA): that Allah’s Messenger (SAW) was asked, O Messenger of Allah, which supplication is heard (by Allah (SWT), he said the end of the night and at the end of the obligatory Salat (prayer) [at-Tirmidhi]. This time is after saying 'At-tahyat' , and before making Tasleem (finishing prayer)

9. The Night Of 'Qadr' (Decree)
This night is the greatest night of the year. This is the night which the almighty Allah (SWT) said about it, "The night of Al-Qadar (Decree) is better than a thousand months." [Surah al-Qadr, 97: 3]

The Night of Decree is one of the odd nights of the last ten nights of the blessed month of Ramadan. The angels descend down to the earth, and the earth is overwhelmed with peace and serenity until the break of dawn and when he doors of Paradise are opened, the worshipper is encouraged to turn to Allah to ask for his needs for this world and the Hereafter.

10. During The Rain
Narrated Sahel Ibn Sa'ad (RA): that the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said: 'Two will not be rejected, Supplication when the Adhan (call of prayer) is being called, and at the time of the rain'. [Al-Hakim 2: 114, and Abu Dawud #2540, ibn Majah]

'Seek the response to your du'as when the armies meet, and the prayer is called, and when rain falls' [reported by Imam al-Shafi' in al-Umm, al-Sahihah #1469]. The time of the rain is a time of mercy from Allah (SWT) so, one should take advantage of this time when Allah (SWT) is having mercy on His slaves.

11. At the Adhan
'Seek the response to your du'as when the armies meet, and the prayer is called, and when rain falls' [reported by Imam al-Shafi' in al-Umm, al-Sahihah #1469]

In another hadith; 'When the prayer is called, the doors of the skies are opened, and the du'a is answered' [al-Tayalisi in his Musnad #2106, al-Sahihah #1413]

12. The One Who Is Suffering Injustice and Opression
The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said to Mua'ad Ibn Jabal (RA), 'Beware of the supplication of the unjustly treated, because there is no shelter or veil between it (the supplication of the one who is suffering injustice) and Allah (SWT)' [Sahih Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

The prophet (SAW) declared, 'Three men whose dua is never rejected (by Allah) are: the fasting person until he breaks his fast (in another narration, when he breaks fast), the just ruler and the one who is oppressed.'[Ahmad, at-Tirmidhi - Hasan]

In another hadith; The Prophet (SAW) declared: 'Three du'as are surely answered: The du'a of the oppressed, the du'a of the traveler, and the du'a of the father/mother (upon their child)'. The One who is suffering injustice is heard by Allah (SWT) when he invokes Allah (SWT) to retain his rights from the unjust one or oppressor. Allah (SWT) has sworn to help the one who is suffering from injustice sooner or later as the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said.

13. The Traveler
The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said; Three supplications will not be rejected (by Allah (SWT)), the supplication of the parent for his child, the supplication of the one who is fasting, and the supplication of the traveler. [al-Bayhaqi, at-Tirmidhi - Sahih]

During travel supplication is heard by Allah (SWT) if the trip is for a good reason, but if the trip is for a bad intention or to perform illegal things (making sins) this will not apply to it.

14. The Parent's Supplication for their Child
The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said; Three supplications will not be rejected (by Allah (SWT)), the supplication of the parent for his child, the supplication of the one who is fasting, and the supplication of the traveler. [al-Bayhaqi, at-Tirmidhi - Sahih]

15. Dua after praising Allah and giving salat on the Prophet (SAW) in the tashahhud at the end of salat.
Narrated Faddalah ibn Ubayd (RA): that the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said: 'When anyone of you makes du'a, let him start by glorifying his Lord and praising Him, then let him send blessings upon the Prophet (SAW), then let him pray for whatever he wants'
[abu Dawud #1481, at-Tirmidhi #3477]

In another hadith; Baqiy ibn Mukhallid (RA) narrated that that the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said: 'Every du'a is not responded to until one sends blessings upon the Prophet (SAW)' [al-Bayhaqi]

In another hadith; Umar (RA) narrated that the Prophet (SAW) said: 'Du'a is detained between the heavens and the earth and no part of it is taken up until you send blessings upon your Prophet (SAW)' [at-Tirmidhi #486]

After a person has finished his tashahhud and before saying the 'salam', supplication at this time is one likely to be responded to.
Ibn Mas'ud narrates: I was once praying, and the Prophet (SAW), Abu Bakr and Umar (were all present). When I sat down (in the final tashahhud), I praised Allah, then sent salams on the Prophet, then started praying for myself. At this, the Prophet (SAW) said:
'Ask, and you shall be given it! Ask, and you shall be given it!' [at-Tirmidhi #593 - hasan, Mishkat al-Misbah #931]

16. The dua of a Muslim for his absent brother or sister Muslim stemming from the heart.
The prophet (SAW) said: 'There is no believing servant who supplicates for his brother in his absence where the angels do not say, 'the same be for you'' [Muslim]

17. Dua on the Day of Arafat
The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said: 'The best supplication is the supplication on the day of Arafat'. [at-Tirmidhi and Malik]

The day of Arafat is the essence and pinnacle of Hajj. On this great and momentous day, millions of worshippers gather together on one plain, from every corner of the world, with only one purpose in mind - to respone to the call of their Creator. During this auspicious day, Allah does not refuse the requests of His worshippers.

18. Dua during the month of Ramadan

Ramadan is month full of many blessings, thus the du'a of Ramadan is a blessed one. This can be inferred from the Prophet (SAW) saying: 'When Ramadan comes, the Doors of Mercy (another narration says Paradise) are opened, and the doors of Hell are closed, and the Shaitans are locked up' Thus, it is clear that du'a during Ramadan has a greater chance of being accepted, as the Gates of Paradise and Mercy are opened. [Sahih al-Bukhari #1899, Muslim #1079 and others]

19. Dua when the Armies meet
When the Muslim is facing the enemy in battle, at this critical period, the du'a of a worshipper is accepted.

Sahl ibn Sa'd (RA) narrtaed the the Prophet (SAW) said: 'Two duas are never rejected, or rarely rejected: the du'a during the call for prayer, and the du'a during the clamity when the two armies attack each other' [Abu Dawud #2540, ibn Majah, al-Hakim]

20. When Muslims gather for the purpose of invoking and remembering Allah (Dhikrullah).

The Prophet (SAW) said: If a group of people sit together remembering Allah, the angels will circle them, mercy will shroud them, peace will descend onto them and Allah will remember them among those with Him. [Muslim]

21. First Ten days of Dhul-Hijjah
The Prophet (SAW) said: 'There are no days during which good deeds are more beloved to Allah than during these ten days'
[Sahih al-Bukhai #969 and others]

22. Dua when the heart reaches out to Allah and is ready to be totally sincere

23. At Midnight

Abu Umamah (RA) said, the Prophet (SAW) was questioned; 'Which du'a is heard (by Allah)?' He answered, 'At midnight and at the end of every obligatory prayer.' [at-Tirmidhi - Hasan]

25. Dua of people after the death of a person

In a long hadith, Umm Salamah (RA) narrated that the Prophet (SAW) said, when Abu Salamah had just passed away, and had closed his eyes, 'Do not ask for yourselves anything but good, for the angels will say '' to all that you ask for. O Allah, forgive Abu Salamah, and raise his ranks among those who are guided.' [Muslim, abu Dawud, Ahmad]

26. Dua of the one fasting until he breaks his fast.

The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said; Three supplications will not be rejected (by Allah (SWT)), the supplication of the parent for his child, the supplication of the one who is fasting, and the supplication of the traveler. [al-Bayhaqi, at-Tirmidhi - Sahih]

27. Dua of the one fasting at the time of breaking fast

The prophet (SAW) declared, 'Three men whose dua is never rejected (by Allah) are: when a fasting person breaks fast (in another narration, the fasting person until he breaks his fast), the just ruler and the one who is oppressed.'[Ahmad, at-Tirmidhi - Hasan]

29. Dua of a just Ruler

The prophet (SAW) declared, 'Three men whose dua is never rejected (by Allah) are: the fasting person until he breaks his fast (in another narration, when he breaks fast), the just ruler and the one who is oppressed.'[Ahmad, at-Tirmidhi - Hasan]

30. Dua of a son or daughter obedient to his or her parents

It is well known in the story narrated in hadith os three men who were trapped by a huge stone in a cave. One of them who was kind to kis parents asked Allah to remove the stone, and his du'a was answered. [Sahih al-Bukhari 3:36 #472]

31. Dua immediately after wudu

Umar ibn Al-Khattab reported that the Prophet (SAW) said: 'There is not one of you that makes wudu, and does it perfectly, then says: I testify that there is no diety worthy of worship except Allah. he is Alone, having no partners. And I bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and messenger', except that the eight gates of Paradise are opened for him, and he can enter into it through whichever one he pleases' [Muslim #234, abu Dawud #162, Ahmad, an-Nasa'i] Saying what has been mentioned in the hadith that is directly related to it (ablution)

32. Dua after stoning the Jamarat at Hajj

The stoning of the small Shaitan (jamrat sugra), or the middle Shaitan (jamrat wusta) pillars during Hajj. It is narrated that the Prophet (SAW) would stone the small Jamarah (one of the three pillars that is stoned in the last days of Hajj), then face the qiblah, raise his hands, and make du'a for a long time. He would then stone the middle Jamarah and do the same. When he stoned the large Jamarah, he would depart without making any du'a. [Sahih al-Bukhari #1753 and others]

33. At the Crowing of a Rooster

Abu Hurairah (RA) narrated that the Prophet (SAW) said: 'When you hear a rooster crowing, then ask Allah for His bounties, for it has seen an angel, and when you hear a donkey braying, then seek refuge in Allah from Shaitan, for it has seen a Shaitan' [Sahih al-Bukhari, Muslim, Ahmad, Sahih al-Jami #611]

34. Du'a made inside the Ka'bah
The Ka'bah is a sanctuary that has no comparison in the entire world. The du'a of one who prays inside the hijr is considered as being made inside the ka'bah, as it is part of the house (Baitullah). [This is the semicircle to the right of the Ka'bah if you face the door, opposite to the Yemeni corner and the Black stone wall.]

Usamah ibn Zayd narrated, 'When the Prophet (SAW) entered the House (Ka'bah), he made du'a in all of its corners [Muslim 2: 968 and others]

35. Du'a on the mount of Safa or Marwah during Umrah or Hajj

It is narrated that the Prophet (SAW) would make long du'as at Safa and Marwah. [Muslim #1218 and others]

36. Dua at any of the holy sites.

37. While reciting Surah al-Fatihah

The Prophet (SAW) said that Allah the Exalted had said: ' I have divided the prayer into two halves between Me and My servant, and My servant will receive what he asks for. When the servant says: Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the universe, Allah the Most High says: My servant has praised Me. And when he (the servant) says: The Most Compassionate, the Merciful, Allah the Most High says: My servant has lauded Me. When he (the servant) says: Master of the Day of Judgment, He remarks: My servant has glorified Me, and sometimes He will say: My servant entrusted (his affairs) to Me. When he (the worshipper) says: Thee do we worship and of Thee do we ask help, He (Allah) says: This is between Me and My servant, and My servant will receive what he asks for. Then, when he (the worshipper) says: Guide us to the straight path, the path of those to whom Thou hast been Gracious -- not of those who have incurred Thy displeasure, nor of those who have gone astray, He (Allah) says: This is for My servant, and My servant will receive what he asks for. [Muslim 4: 395]

38. Saying '' during prayer

After finishing the recitation of al-Fatihah, the saying of'' in congregation. The Prophet (SAW) said: 'When the Imam says '', then recite it behind him (as well), because whoever's coincides with the of the angels will have all of his sins forgiven.' [Sahih al-Bukhari #780, Muslim #410 and others]

Islamic Holy Days and Special Occasions

Islamic Holy Days and Special Occasions

What holy days does Islam have? what major historical events has Islam had?

Praise be to Allaah.

There is a special day in Islam which Allaah has singled out for blessings which are not to be found in any other days. This day is Friday, to which Allaah guided the Muslims and from which He led the Jews and Christians astray. It is the weekly festival of the Muslims, and it has many special features, some of which we will describe here:

1 – It was the teaching of the Prophet SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) to venerate this day, honour it and single it out for special acts of worship that belong exclusively to this day. In Fajr (early morning prayer) on Friday he used to recite the Soorahs ‘Alif-laam-meem tanzeel’ (al-Sajdah, no. 32) and ‘Hal ata ‘ala’l-insaan’ (al-Insaan, no. 76).

Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: the Prophet SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to recite these two soorahs in the Fajr prayer on Friday because they refer to what happened and will happen on that day, for they speak of the creation of Adam, the resurrection and the gathering of mankind, all of which happened or will happen on a Friday. So reciting them on this day is a reminder to his ummah (nation) of what has happened and what is yet to come. This is one of the special features of Friday.

2 – It is mustahabb (recommended) to send lots of blessings upon the Prophet SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) on the ay of Friday and the night before, because he said: “Send lots of blessings upon me on Friday and the night before.” (Narrated by al-Bayhaqi, 3/249; classed as saheeh (sound) by al-Arna’oot).

3 – Jumu’ah (Friday) prayers are held on this day; this is one of the most strongly-affirmed duties of Islam, and one of the greatest gatherings of the Muslims. It is the greatest and most obligatory gathering in which they come together, apart from ‘Arafah [a place near Makkah (Mecca) where the pilgrims stand and pray during the Hajj or pilgrimage]. Whoever neglects Jumu’ah prayers out of carelessness, Allaah will place a seal over his heart. The people of Paradise will be brought closer (to Allaah) on the Day of Resurrection and they will see Allaah sooner, commensurate with how close they were to the imam on the day of Jumu’ah and how early they came to Jumu’ah prayers.

4 – The command to do ghusl (take a bath for the purpose of purification) on Friday; this command is most emphatic.

5 – Wearing perfume on Friday; this is better than wearing perfume on any other day of the week.

6 – Cleaning the teeth with the siwaak (tooth stick); this is better than using the siwaak on any other day.

7 – Going to the prayers early.

8 – Keeping oneself busy with prayer, dhikr (remembering Allaah) and reading Qur’aan until the imaam comes out to give the khutbah (sermon).

9 – Listening attentively to the khutbah, because listening to it is obligatory according to the more correct of the two scholarly opinions. If a person fails to do that he is engaging in idle talk, and whoever does that has not prayed Jumu’ah. In al-Musnad a marfoo’ report [i.e., a report which is attributed to the Prophet SAWS (peace and blessings be upon him)] states: “The one who says to his companion, ‘Be quiet and listen,’ has not prayed Jumu’ah.” (Narrated by Ahmad, 2034; classed as hasan by al-Arna’oot. See Haashiyat Zaad al-Ma’aad, 1/377. Also narrated by al-Bukhaari (934) and Muslim (851), with the wording: “If you say to your companion, ‘Be quiet and listen,’ on a Friday when the imaam is delivering the khutbah, then you have engaged in idle talk.”)

10 – Reading Soorat al-Kahf (no. 18) during the day of Friday. It was narrated that the Prophet SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever reads Soorat al-Kahf on a Friday, light will shine for him from beneath his feet to the clouds of the sky, which will shine on him on the Day of Resurrection, and he will be forgiven from one Friday to the next.” (Narrated by al-Haakim, 2/368; classed as saheeh by al-Arna’oot).

11 – It is a festival which is repeated every week. Ibn Maajah narrated in his Sunan that Abu Lubaabah ibn ‘Abd al-Mundhir said: “The Messenger of Allaah SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘Friday is the best and greatest of days before Allaah, and it is greater before Allaah than the day of al-Adha (the Feast of Sacrifice) and the day of al-Fitr (the Feast of Breaking the Fast). It has five characteristics: on this day Allaah created Adam; on this day Adam came down to earth; on this day Allaah caused Adam to die; on this day there is an hour during which no one asks Allaah for something but He will grant it to him, so long as he does not ask for something haraam (forbidden); and on this day the Hour [i.e., the Day of Judgement] will begin, so there is no angel who is close to Allaah, no heaven, no earth, no wind, no mountain and no tree that does not feel some apprehension on Friday.” (Narrated by Ibn Maajah, 1084. Al-Busayri said: its isnaad is hasan, and it was classed as saheeh in Saheeh Abi Dawood, 888).

12 – It is mustahabb (recommended) to wear the best clothes one has on Friday. Imaam Ahmad narrated in his Musnad that Abu Ayyoob said: “I heard the Messenger of Allaah SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say, ‘Whoever takes a bath on Friday, puts on perfume if he has some, wears his best clothes then goes out , walking in a dignified manner until he reaches the mosque, then he prostrates in prayer if he wants and does not disturb anybody, then he remains quiet until the imaam comes out and he prays, that will be an expiation from one Friday to the next.’” (Narrated by Ahmad in al-Musnad, 23059; classed as hasan by al-Ana’oot).

In Sunan Abi Dawood it is narrated from ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Salaam that he heard the Messenger of Allaah SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say on the minbar (pulpit) one Friday: “There is nothing wrong with any one of you if he buys two garments for Friday other than his workaday clothes.” (Narrated by Abu Dawood, 1078; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood, 953).

13 – It is mustahabb on Fridays to perfume the mosque with incense. Sa’eed ibn Mansoor narrated from Na’eem ibn ‘Abd-Allaah al-Mujmir that ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab (may Allaah be pleased with him) commanded him to perfume the mosque of Madeenah with incense every Friday until noontime. This is why Na’eem was called al-Mujmir (from the word tajmeer meaning perfuming with incense).

14 – It is a day on which sins are expiated. In Saheeh al-Bukhaari it is narrated that Salmaan al-Faarisi said: “The Messenger of Allaah SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘No man takes a bath on Friday and purifies himself as much as he can, and makes his hair tidy, and puts on perfume, then goes out, and does not come between two people, then prays as Allaah decrees for him and listens attentively when the imaam speaks, but he will be forgiven for his bad deeds between this Friday and the other.’” (al-Bukhaari, 843).

15 – On Friday there is the “hour of response” which is an hour in which no Muslim asks Allaah for something but He will grant it. In al-Saheehayn it is narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “The Messenger of Allaah SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘On Friday there is an hour in which no Muslim asks for something whilst he is standing in prayer, but it will be given to him” – and he demonstrated the shortness of that time with his hands. (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 883; Muslim, 1406).

16 – On Fridays there is the khutbah (sermon) which is intended to praise and glorify Allaah, and to bear witness to His Oneness and to the Messengership of His Messenger, and to remind His slaves of His blessings, to warn them of His punishment and wrath, to advise them of that which will bring them closer to Him and His Paradise, and to forbid them that which will bring them closer to His anger and Hell. This is the purpose behind the khutbah and of gathering to hear it.

17 – It is the day on which it is mustahabb to devote oneself to worship and it has an advantage over other days by being characterized with all kinds of worship, obligatory and mustahabb. Allaah has made for the followers of each religion a day on which they devote themselves to worship and refrain from worldly work. So Friday is a day of worship, and in relation to other days it is like Ramadaan in relation to other months; the “hour of response” on Friday is like Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree) in Ramadaan. Hence whoever gets it right on Friday, his whole week will be good, and whoever gets it right in Ramadan, his whole year will be good, and whoever gets it right on Hajj, his whole life will be good. Friday is the measure of the week, Ramadaan is the measure of the year and Hajj is the measure of one's life. And Allaah is the Source of strength.

19 – It is the day with which Allaah has exclusively favoured this ummah, and from which He led the People of the Book astray before them, as it says in al-Saheeh, where it is narrated from Abu Hurayrah that the Prophet SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The sun has never risen or set on any day better than Friday. Allaah guided us to it and led the people away from it. The people are behind us in this respect. It (Friday) is for us, Saturday is for the Jews and Sunday is for the Christians.” (Narrated by Ahmad, 10305, classed as saheeh by Ibn Khuzaymah, 3/114).

20 – It is the day which Allaah chose from among all the days of the week, just as He chose Ramadaan from among the months of the year and Laylat al-Qadr from among all the nights, and Makkah from among all places on earth, and Muhammad from all of mankind.

With regard to the second question, the Muslims have several special occasions, such as:

1 – The blessed month of Ramadaan, which is a month that has special characteristics. You will find more information in Question no. 13480.

2 – Eid al-Fitr (the Feast of Breaking the Fast). This is the first day of the month of Shawwaal, on which the Muslims express their joy at the blessing which Allaah has bestowed upon them by enabling them to complete the month-long fast of Ramadaan.

3 – The Day of ‘Arafah, which is the ninth day of the month of Dhu’l-Hijjah, the day of the greater Pilgrimage (Hajj), the greatest pillar of the Hajj. It has many virtues, details of which are to be found in question no. 7284.

4 – Eid al-Adha (the Feast of Sacrifice). The Messenger of Allaah SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The best of days is the Day of Sacrifice.” This is the tenth day of Dhu’l-Hijjah. It was narrated that ‘Uqbah ibn ‘Aamir said: “The Messenger of Allaah SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘The Day of ‘Arafah, the Day of Sacrifice and the Days of al-Tashreeq [the three days following the Day of Sacrifice] are a festival for us Muslims, and they are days of eating and drinking.’” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 704; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Tirmidhi, 620).

The Meaning of ISLAM

The Meaning of ISLAM

God’s Original Law on which He originated mankind. (30:30)
Do they seek other than God’s Religion, while to Him has surrendered whoso is in the heavens and earth, willingly or unwillingly, and to Him they shall be returned? (3:83)
Hast thou not seen that to God prostrates whoso is in the heavens and whoso is on the earth, and the sun, the moon, the stars, the mountains, the trees, the animals and many of mankind, and many merit the punishment.(22:18)

The wordIslam means submission or surrender and implies obedience to God. ThewordDeen(in English, Religion) means way of life or the law governing the pattern of life. The Religion of God is, therefore, the law on which He fashioned the things, and Islam is the state of surrender to that law. Different laws govern different creatures, but the basic, common law, the law of laws, for all of them is Islam i.e. the act of submission to their specific laws. Each creation is bound to its law (or Religion) and is, therefore, on Islam, except mankind that disobeys so often.
The Religion of man is defined in the Quran as the original unchanging law on which God based the creation of mankind.

Set thy face straight to the Religion, the original law of God, on which He originated mankind; in God’s creation there is no change; that is the standing Religion, but most men do not know. (30:30)

The Religion of God is, thus, the basic, eternal law, inherent in the very structure of man on which his life and behaviour were fashioned, That law is the very nature of man that gives him right direction. Islam means following that law every moment of life. Peace, success and salvation are the fruits of obedience to that law. Its disregard means going astray from the laid down path resulting in troubles and disaster. Man has no choice but to follow that Law, the law of God, being the only way established by Him. No other religion could be acceptable to God. (Even the Atheists act on it and get the fruits of life).

He who seeks a religion other than Submission to God (Islam), that shall not be accepted of him, and he shall be a loser in the Hereafter. (3:85)

It was this basic "Law of Islam" and the unchanging original law of life that all the Messengers of God taught through ages. Islam is Not Mohammadenism. Muhammad (may God bless him) never claimed any philosophy of life evolved by him. He said that he was only one among many Messengers of God, all of whom were ordained to submit themselves to, and bring the world on, the natural, eternal, unchanging and Only Religion of God.Muhammad is naught but a Messenger; Messengers have passed away before him; so if he should die or be slain, will you turn about on your heels ? If any turns about on his heels, he will not harm God in the least, and God will recompense the grateful. (3:144)
When his Lord said to him (Abraham), ‘submit thyself’, he said, ‘ I submit myself to the Lord of the World’. And with that Abraham charged his sons, and so did jacob, ‘my sons, God has chosen for you the Religion (of Submission), so die not but in Submission’. (2:131-132)
The Religion with God is Submission (Islam). Those who were given the Book differed not but after the knowledge had come to them, being insolent to one another. And if any disbelieves in the Signs of God, then God is swift at the reckoning. (3:19)
Say, ‘ I have been commanded that I should serve God, being sincere to Him in the Religion, and I have been commanded that I should be the first of the Obedient.’ Say, ‘I fear, if I rebel against my Lord, the punishment of a Great Day’. (39:11-13)
O Believers, enter Submission totally, and follow not the steps of the Devil; he is a clear foe to you. But if you slip after the Clear Signs have come to you, then know that God is Mighty, Wise. (2:208-209)

SHAB-e-MIRAAJ

SHAB-e-MIRAAJ

What is Miraj
Lailat al Miraj, also known as Shab-e-Miraj, is the Muslim festival celebrating the Isra and Mi'raj of the Prophet Muhammad, when it is believed he went from Mecca to Al-Haram As-Sharif (Also known as the Temple Mount) and was then raised to Jannah (Heaven), met with the Prophets and eventually with Allah (God).

When is it celebrated?

It is celebrated on the 27th day of the month Rajab in the Islamic calendar. From this journey, Muslims believe, the command for five daily prayers (Salat) was given.

Qur’anic Roots of the Miraj

In the Surah al‑Isra (Sarah 17 ‑ also known as Bani Isra`il), it is mentioned:

"Glorified be He who carried His servant at night from Masjid al­ Haram to Masjid al‑Aqsa, the precincts of which We have blessed so that We may show him of Our Signs. Verily He is the All­ Hearing, the All‑Seeing.

Surah al‑Najm, Verses 12 to 18

"Will you then argue with him about what he saw? He certainly saw him (Jibra'il) during his other ascent to the Lote‑tree (in the seven heavens) near which is Paradise. When the tree was covered with a covering, (Muhammad's) eyes did not deceive him, nor did they lead him to falsehood. He certainly saw the greatest (signs) of the existence of his Lord.''

What is Ramzan/Ramadan?

What is Ramzan/Ramadan?

Ramzan is the ninth month according to Islamic Lunar calendar. Ramzan (written as Ramadan) is derived from the Arabic root word 'ramida' or 'arramad' that means intense scorching heat and dryness, especially of the ground. Ramadan is so called to indicate the heating sensation in the stomach as a result of thirst. Others said it is so called because Ramadan scorches out the sins as it burns the ground. Some said it is so called because the hearts and souls are more readily receptive to the admonition and remembrance of Allah during Ramadan, as the sand and stones are receptive to the sun's heat.
Ramadan begins after the month of Shaban, after the new moon has been sighted. In case new moon is not sighted then after 30 days of Shaban, Ramadan begins. The month of Ramadan lasts for 29 or 30 days depending on the sighting of the moon. If the moon is sighted on the night of 29th fast then the month of Shawwal begins from tomorrow and Ramadan is over. The 1st of Shawwal is the Eid also know as Eid-ul-fitr to distinguish it from Eid-ul-azha (Bakri Eid).
Ramadan is the month in which the Quran was revealed. The Quran clearly says "O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you many learn piety and rightousness" - Al Baqarah, 2:183. Fasting is to be done by all able bodied men and women and children who have reached puberty. If a person is sick or has some medical reason or if a women is pregnant then they are waived from fasting.
During Ramadan the people who fast are not allowed to eat or drink anything (including water) from dawn to after sunset. Also one has to restrain other body parts, which may render the fast worthless despite the main factor of hunger and thirst; so the tongue,
for instance, must avoid backbiting, slander, and lies; the eyes should avoid looking into things considered by the Lawgiver as unlawful; the ears must stop from listening to conversation, words, songs, and lyrics that spoil the spirit of fasting; and finally restraining of the heart, and mind from indulging, themselves in other things besides zikr or Allah (remembrance of Allah).
Also when one is fasting and feels hunger and thirst he has to remember other people in the world who do not have food and water. Charity is one of the extremely recommended acts during fasting. Muslims are required to give minimum of 2.5% of their annual savings as charity to poor and needy people. Also there are various sayings of the prophet (pbuh) where he has said that any charity made in Ramadan is multiplied upto 70 times. If some people are poor and cannot afford to give money then even a smile is an act of charity. In recent years lot of research has been done about the medical benifits of Ramadan. The physiological effect of fasting includes lower of blood sugar, lowering of cholesterol and lowering of the systolic blood pressure. In fact, Ramadan fasting would be an ideal recommendation for treatment of mild to moderate, stable, non-insulin diabetes, obesity and essential hypertension. There are psychological effects of fasting as well. There is a peace and tranquility for those who fast during the month of Ramadan. Personal hostility is at a minimum, and the crime rate decreases. Muslims take advice from the Prophet who said, "If one slanders you or aggresses against you, say I am fasting.'" This psychological improvement could be related to better stabilization of blood glucose during fasting as hypoglycemia after eating, aggravates behavior changes. There is a beneficial effect of extra prayer at night. This not only helps with better utilization of food but also helps in output. There are 10 extra calories output for each rikat of the prayer. Again, we do not do prayers for exercise, but a mild movement of the joints with extra calorie utilization is a better form of exercise. Similarly, recitation of the Quran not only produces a tranquility of heart and mind, but improves the memory. There is a beneficial effect of extra prayer at night. This not only helps with better utilization of food but also helps in output. There are 10 extra calories output for each rikat of the prayer. Again, we do not do prayers for exercise, but a mild movement of the joints with extra calorie utilization is a better form of exercise. Similarly, recitation of the Quran not only produces a tranquility of heart and mind, but improves the memory. Some people think that one month of fasting is too much while others feel that its only one month where they can get their sins forgiven and get their rewards increased. May Allah bless us all and forgive all our sins and make us good Muslims and good human beings.

Ibadat During Last Days Of Ramadan

Assalamu 'Alaykum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu

ASALATU WASALAMU ALAYKA YA RASULLALLAH Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam

The night of 21st Ramadan(1st Shab-e-Qadr)

*Read 4 rakaat nafals with 2 salaams. In every Rakat,after Surah Fateha, read Surah Qadar once & Surah Ikhlaas once. Then after Salaam read Darood Paak 70 times.This namaz is very useful for forgiveness.

*Read 2 rakaat nafal namaz.In every Rakat,after Surah Fateha, read Surah Qadar once & Surah Ikhlaas 3 times. Then after Salaam read Astaghfaar (Astaghfer ullaha Rabb-e-min kull-e-zanmb-in-wa Atoob-o-Ilaihe) 70 times.This namaz is also very helpful for forgiveness.

*Reciting Surah Qadr 7 times is very Afzal during this night.

The night of 23rd Ramadan (2nd Shab-e-Qadr)

*Read 4 rakaat nafals with 2 salaams. In every Rakat,after Surah Fateha,read Surah Qadar once & Surah Ikhlaas 3 times.

*Read 8 rakaat nafals with 4 salaams. In every Rakat,after Surah Fateha, read Surah Qadar once & Surah Ikhlaas once. Then after Salaam read Third Kalima 70 times. InshAllah, Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala will shower HIS forgiveness & blessings on the performer of this namaz.

*It is also good to recite Surah Yaseen & Surah Rehman once each, in this night.

The night of 25th Ramadan(3rd Shab-e-Qadr):

*Read 4 rakaat nafals with 2 salaams.In every Rakat,after Surah Fateha,read Surah Qadar once & Surah Ikhlaas 5 times.Then after Salaam read first Kalima 100 times. This namaz is very good to gain rewards from Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala.

*Read 2 rakaat namaz.In every Rakat,after Surah Fatrha, read Surah Qadar once & Surah Ikhlaas 15 times.Then after Salaam read Kalma Shahadat (2nd kalima) 70 times. This namaz is helpful to be safe from Azab-e-Qabr.(punishment of the grave)

*It is also useful to recite Surah Dukhaan 7 times to be safe from Azab-e-Qabr..(punishment of the grave)

*It is also good to recite Surah Fateh 7 times to fulfil your wishes.

The night of 27th Ramadan(4th Shab-e-Qadr)

Read 12 rakaat nafals with 3 salaams.In every Rakat,after Surah Fateha,read Surah Qadar once & Surah Ikhlaas 15 times.Then after Salaam read Astaghfaar (Astaghfer ullaha Rabb-e-min kull-e-zanmb-in-wa Atoob-o-Ilaihe) 70 times.This namaz is also very helpful for forgiveness. (Inshallah!)

*Read 2 rakaat namaz.In every Rakat,after Surah Fateha, read Surah Qadar 3 times & Surah Ikhlaas 27 times.

*Read 4 rakaat nafals with 2 salaams.In every Rakat,after Surah Fateha,read Surah Takasur once & Surah Ikhlaas 3 times.The hardships of death will be eased & this namaz is also good to be safe from Azab-e-Qabr .(punishment of the grave)(Inshallah).

*Read 2 rakaat namaz.In every Rakat,after Surah Fateha, read Surah Alm- Nashrah once & Surah Ikhlaas 3 times.Then after Salaam recite Surah Qadar 27 times. This namaz will increase your rewards in your Ibadaat.(Inshallah)!

*It is useful to recite Surah Mulk 7 times for forgiveness of sins.

The night of 29th Ramadan(5th Shab-e-Qadr):

*Read 4 rakaat nafals with 2 salaams.In every Rakat,after Surah Fateha, read Surah Qadar once & Surah Ikhlaas 3 times.Then after Salaam recite Surah Alm- Nashrah 27 times. This namaz is very helpful in strengthen your belief / Iman.

*Read 4 rakaat nafals with 2 salaams. In every Rakat,after Surah Fateha,read Surah Qadar once & Surah Ikhlaas 5 times.Then after Salaam read Darood Shareef 100 times.

*It is useful to recite Surah Waqaiya 7 times for the success of your business.

Please try to perform some of the Nawafil to gain Sawaab & not to let go of these precious nights, as they come only once a year! and remember me and my family in your duas