" Eid Mubarak To You And Your Family "

Happy Eid Mubarak !! :)

ALLAH IS ONE !

EID-UL-AZHA MUBARAK !!

May Allah Brings Lots Of happiness on This Eid For All Of Us (Amen)

" Lots Of whishes For You On This EID "

Wudu (Ablution): How to Perform !

1. Say "Bismillah" (in the Name of Allah)
2. Wash hands 3 times
   • Use left hand to wash right hand, up to and including the wrist, 3 times.
   • Then, use right hand to wash left hand, up to and including the wrist, 3 times.
3. Rinse water in mouth 3 times
   • Cup right hand with water and put in mouth, then spit it out, 3 times.
4. Snuff water in nose 3 times
5. Wash face 3 times
6. Wash forearms 3 times
   • Wipe right forearm with left hand, all the way up to and including the elbow, 3 times.
   • Wipe left forearm with right hand, all the way up to and including the elbow, 3 times.
7. Wipe water over head/hair 1 times
   • It has been recorded that the Prophet used to wipe his head three different ways:
     1. Wiping all of his head. 'Abdullah ibn Zaid reported that the Prophet  wiped his entire head with his hands. He started with the front of his head, then moved to the back, and then returned his hands to the front.
     2. Wiping over the turban only.
        • Said 'Amru ibn Umayyah, "I saw the Messenger of Allah  wipe over his turban and shoes." (Related by Ahmad, al-Bukhari and Ibn Majah).
        • Bilal reported that the Prophet said, "Wipe over your shoes and head covering." (Related by Ahmad.)
        • 'Umar once said, "May Allah not purify the one who does not consider wiping over the turban to be purifying." Many hadith have been related on this topic by al-Bukhari, Muslim and others. Most of the scholars agree with them.
     3. Wiping over the front portion of the scalp and the turban. Al-Mughirah ibn Shu'bah said that the Messenger of Allah, upon whom be peace, made ablution and wiped over the front portion of his scalp, his turban and his socks. (Related by Muslim.) There is, however, no strong hadith that he wiped over part of his head, even though al-Ma'idah: apparently implies it. It is also not sufficient just to wipe over locks of hair that proceed from the head or along the sides of the head.
   • If you are a female and a non-mahram male (or any non-Muslim who you believe may describe you to others) may see you (such as in a public bathroom, etc.), do not remove your hijab or niqab... keep it on and wipe over it.
8. Wipe the inside and back of ears 1 time
   • Wash both ears at the same time
9. Wash feet
   • Wash right foot, including the ankle, with left hand, 3 times.
   • Wipe between each toe on right foot, with left hand pinky, 1 time.
   • Wash left foot, including the ankle, with right hand, 3 times.
   • Wipe between each toe on left foot, with right hand pinky, 1 time.
     • Once the Prophet remained behind us in a journey. He joined us while we were performing ablution for the prayer which was over-due. We were just passing wet hands over our feet (and not washing them properly) so the Prophet addressed us in a loud voice and said twice or thrice: "Save your heels from the fire."  [Bukhari 1:164, Narrated 'Abdullah bin 'Amr]
     • "...and then he washed his feet up to the ankles."   [Bukhari 1.186, narrated Amr]

The Purpose of Ramadan !

The month of Ramadhan is not like any other month; its purpose is to rid man of those habits which he has accumulated throughout the rest of the year. It is a month that prepares man for the remaining eleven months by teaching him discipline and self control. Thus, Allah has made some acts which are beloved to man, like eating, drinking and fulfilling one’s desires, Haraam. If man can control these desires in this month, which are usually permissible for him, then he can surely control himself from other desires which are not permissible throughout the remaining months.

This blessed month has been sent by Allah to His bondsmen so that can create a connection and draw closer to Allah by reaping the many rewards that lie in this month. A person who has been given the opportunity to be present in this month can take this as a sign that Allah Ta’ala has given him another opportunity to draw closer to Him and earn His paradise through worship in this month.

In this month we will be given many opportunities, as mentioned above to reform ourselves and seek forgiveness for our bad sins. This is a month of reformation and self reflection, where a believer can ponder of over spirituality and piety and bring a change for the better. The Prophet of Allah صلي الله عليه و سلم has clearly stated:

مَنْ لَمْ يَدَعْ قَوْلَ الزُّورِ وَالْعَمَلَ بِهِ فَلَيْسَ لِلَّهِ حَاجَةٌ فِي أَنْ يَدَعَ طَعَامَهُ وَشَرَابَهُ
“Whoever does not give up lying and evil actions, then Allah is not in need of his leaving his food and drink” [Saheeh al-Bukhari]

May Allah Ta’ala make us successful in this test, for the one who is unsuccessful in this test may not be given an opportunity for a re-test.

ان جبرئيل عرض لي فقال بعد من ادرك رمضان فلم يغفر له قلت آمين
“Jibreel came to me and said, ‘Whoever reaches the month of Ramadan and does not have his sins forgiven and so enters the Fire, then may Allah distance him, say ameen.” So I said “Ameen” [Mustadrak al-Haakim]

In summary, the month of Ramadhan has been made so that mankind can take benefit of the merits and blessings contained within to change themselves for the better and by doing so create a bond with Allah that will continue throughout the eleven remaining months.

I pray that this information comes in use and aids the readers in preparing for the month of Ramadhan.

As a reminder, please commit the following Du’a to memory and make a habit of reciting it daily until the day of Ramdhan.

اللهم بارك لنا في رجب وشعبان وبلغنا رمضان
“O Allah, make the months of Rajab and Sha’ban blessed for us, and let us reach the month of Ramadhan.” [Musnad-e-Ahmed]

Ramadan Virtues, Blessings & Essential Elements !

 In the name of Allah, Most Merciful, Most Compassionate
All praise is to Allah, Whom we thank and seek for His help and forgiveness.
We seek refuge in Allah from the evils of ourselves and the burden of our evil deeds.
Whomsoever He guides, will never be misled, and whomsoever He misguides, will never find enlightenment.
I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and that Mohammad is His slave and Messenger.

Allah said, what translated means, “O you who believe! Fear Allah as He should be feared, and die not except in a state of Islam” [3:102],

also, “Mankind! Be dutiful to your Lord, Who created you from a single person (Adam), and from him (Adam) He created his wife (Eve), and from them both He created many men and women and fear Allah through whom you demand your mutual (rights), and (do not cut the relations) of the wombs (kinship)! Surely, Allah is Ever an All- Watcher over you.” [4:1]
and, “O you who believe! Keep your duty to Allah and fear Him, and speak (always) the Truth.” [33:70].

The best of speech is the Book of Allah, and the best of guidance is the guidance sent with Muhammad - peace be upon him. The worst of matters are Bid’ahs (innovations in the religion), every Bid’ah is a Dhalalah [misguidance], and every Dhalalah is in the Hellfire.

***Contents****

• A. The Magnificent Month
• B. Blessings of Ramadan
• C. Virtues of Fasting in Quran and Sunnah
• D. Ramadan and the Quran
• E. Virtues of the Quran
• F. Essential Elements of Fasting
• G. Acts Which Nullify the Fast (intentionally/involuntarily)
• H. Other Rulings

A. The Magnificent Month

Salman Al-Farisi (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated: “The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) addressed us on the last day of Sha’ban and said: “People, a great blessed month has come upon you, a month containing Laylat al-Qadr which is better than a thousand months. Allah has made fasting during it an obligation, and steadfastly observing its nights in worship a voluntary act. Whoever undertakes an act of obedience to Allah during this month with a righteous deed, it is as if he has performed an obligatory act at other times; and whoever performs an obligatory act during it is as one who performed seventy obligations at other times. It is the month of patience, and the reward for patience is Paradise. It is the month of goodwill, during which provisions are multiplied. Whoever feeds a fasting person will be compensated with forgiveness of sins and salvation of his soul from Hell. He will also receive a reward equal to that of the person he feeds, without causing him any reduction (in his good deeds).” (The Companions) said: “Not all of us can find something to feed a fasting person.”

The Prophet (pbuh) said: “Allah gives this reward to whoever feeds a fasting person even with just a taste of milk or dates, or a drink of water. Whoever quenches the thirst of a fasting person, Allah the Almighty makes him drink from my pond such that he will never feel thirsty again until he enters Paradise. It is a month whose beginning is mercy, whose middle is forgiveness and whose end is emancipation from Hell.

Therefore display four characteristics to a greater extent; with two of which you will please your Lord, and two you can not dispense with. The two with which you will please your Lord are to testify that there is no one deserving of worship except Allah, and to seek His forgiveness; whereas the two which you cannot dispense with are that you beseech Allah to place you in Paradise and that you seek refuge with Him from Hell.” [related by Ibn Khuzaymah and AlBayhaqi].

B. Blessings of Ramadan

Dear Muslim Brothers and Sisters! We are hosting soon inshaa’a Allah a unique, a generous and an honorable guest; a guest that visits us once a year and brings with it all sorts of goodness and happiness; a guest that brings with it the wide Mercy and Forgiveness of Allah; a guest that brings with it a smell of Paradise; a guest that makes the believer closer to Allah and His Paradise and away from Shaytan and Hell Fire. It is Ramadhan, the month of the Qur’an, the month of Mercy, the month of Forgiveness, the month of prayer at night and Suhoor, the month of solidarity and mutual help, the month of all blessings.

We are advised in our merciful religion of Islam to be kind and generous towards the guest, so what if the guest is the best of guests over the year? We should exert ourselves in generosity which is in this case good behavior and intense worship. It is from the immense mercy of Allah upon us that He made us Muslims and that He extended our lives till we reached this Ramadan. It is reported from some of the Salaf (Muslims of the first three centuries of Islam that the Messenger of Allah, salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam, praised in the well known famous hadith) that they used to pray to Allah during the six months before Ramadan to extend their lives so that they can fast Ramadan, and in the 6 months after Ramadan they would ask Allah to accept their fasting of Ramadan. Therefore, we have to be thankful to Allah that He allowed us to witness this Ramadan, so let us please Him during this month.

Why do we fast? It is from the nature of humans to ask and to wonder why they do things. Muslims do things to please Allah, and they can please Allah only by obeying Him and practicing His religion. Thus, in answer to this question “Why do we fast?” we respond that it is a commandment and a clear order from Allah upon us and we have no other choice but to obey Allah and please Him out of Love and Fear at the same time.

Allah says what means : “O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed for you as it has been prescribed for people before you so that you will (learn how to) attain Taqwa” (Qur’an, al-Baqarah, 2:183)

Ibn ‘Umar reports that Allah’s Messenger said: Islam is based on (the following) five (principles):

• 1. To testify that none has the right to be worshiped but Allah and Muhammad is Allah’s Messenger.
• 2. To offer the (compulsory congregational) prayers dutifully and perfectly.
• 3. To pay Zakat (i.e. obligatory charity)
• 4. To perform Hajj. (i.e. Pilgrimage to Mecca)
• 5. To observe fast during the month of Ramadan. [Bukhari]

Abu Hurairah narrates that one day while Allah’s Messenger was sitting with the people, a man came to him walking and said, “O Allah’s Messenger. What is Belief?” The Prophet said, “Belief is to believe in Allah, His Angels, His Books, His Apostles, and the meeting with Him, and to believe in the Resurrection.” The man asked, “O Allah’s Apostle, What is Islam?” The Prophet replied, “Islam is to worship Allah and not worship anything besides Him, to offer prayers perfectly, to pay the (compulsory) charity (i.e. Zakat) and to fast the month of Ramadan.” [The narration of Muslim has Hajj as well]. The man again asked, “O Allah’s Apostle What is Ihsan (i.e. perfection or benevolence)? The Prophet said, “Ihsan is to worship Allah as if you see Him, and if you do not achieve this state of devotion, then (take it for granted that) Allah sees you.” Then the man left. The Prophet said, “Call him back to me.” They went to call him back but could not see him. The Prophet said, “That was Jibreel (Gabriel) who came to teach the people their religion.” [Bukhari].

Since Islam means submission to Allah, we have no other choice but to submit ourselves to Allah and obey His commandments. It is from the mercy of Allah towards us that while He prescribed on us fasting, He also showed us the greatness of fasting in this world and in the hereafter to make it beloved to us.

Abu Umaamah (r.a.a.) said: I said: O Messenger of Allah, tell me of an action by which I may enter Paradise. He said: Take to Fasting, there is nothing like it. [An-Nasaa’ee, Ibn Hibbaan, Al-Haakim, Saheeh]

In this hadeeth, the Prophet (s.a.w.) singled out fasting when asked about a deed that leads its doer to the best of rewards, Paradise. This fact alone is sufficient for us to understand the greatness of fasting. Mere knowledge of the importance and superiority of fasting, however, is not enough for a Muslim to attain Allah’s pleasure and then, in shaa’ Allah, His great reward.

Indeed, the Prophet (s.a.w.) has said: “Perhaps a person fasting will receive nothing from his fasting except hunger and thirst.” [Ibn Maajah, Ad-Daarimee, Ahmad, al-Baihaqee, Saheeh]

This hadeeth should raise our concern about fasting and increase our desire to perform this act of worship with the best intention and in accordance with the Sunnah of the Prophet (s.a.w.). The first step is for a Muslim to realize that Allah has prescribed fasting as a means of gaining Taqwa. Allah (swt) has also informed us that it is taqwa that distinguishes people in the His sight.

Allah says: “The most honoured by Allah amongst you are those best in taqwaa.” [49:13]

Ali ibn Abi Taalib was asked about the definition of taqwa, to which he answered: “[It is] Fear of the All-Mighty, acting upon the revelation, preparation for the day of travel [when we meet Allah], and contentment with a small amount.”

C. Virtues of Fasting as mentioned in the Quran and Sunnah

• The reward for fasting is immense, as mentioned in the following Hadeeth: “Every action of the son of Adam is given manifold reward, each good deed receiving ten times its like, up to seven hundred times. Allah the Most High said, ‘Except for fasting, for it is for Me and I will give recompense for it, he leaves off his desires and his food for Me.’ for the fasting person there are two times of joy; a time when he breaks his fast and a time of joy when he meets his Lord, and the smell coming from the mouth of the fasting person is better with Allah than the smell of musk.” [al-Bukhaaree]
• Also, Sahl ibn Sa’ said that the Prophet (s.a.w.) said: “Indeed there is a gate of Paradise called ar-Rayyaan. On the day of Resurrection those who fast will enter through it; no one enters it except for them, and when they have entered, it is closed so that no one enters it, so when the last of them enters it, it is closed, and whoever enters it drinks, and whoever drinks never becomes thirsty.” [Ibn Khuzaimah, Saheeh].
• Fasting is a shield against the Fire: “Fasting is a shield with which a servant protects himself from the Fire.” [Ahmad, Saheeh] and his saying (saws) “No servant fasts on a day in the path of Allah except that Allah removes the hellfire seventy years further from his face.” [related by the group except for Abu Dawood]
• On the Day of Judgement, “Fasting will say: O My Lord I prevented him from food and desires so accept my intercession for him.” [Ahmad, al-Haakim and Abu Nu’aim, Hasan]
• Fasting is a means for one’s sins to be forgiven. The Prophet (s.a.w.) said: “He who fasts Ramadhan, due to Iman and hoping for reward (from Allah) then his past sins are forgiven.” [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]
• Fasting is an expiation for various sins, as mentioned in the Qur’aan, in verses: 2:196, 4:92, 5:89, 5:95 and 58:3-4.
• The supplication of the fasting person is answered: “There are in the month of Ramadhan in every day and night those to whom Allah grants freedom from the Fire, and there is for every Muslim a supplication which he can make and will be granted.” [al-Bazzaar, Ahmad, Saheeh]
• The fasting person will be among the true followers of the prophets and the martyrs: ‘Amr ibn Murrah al-Juhaanee r.a.a. said: A man came to the Prophet (s.a.w.) and said: O Messenger of Allah, what if I testify that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah and that you are the Messenger of Allah, and I observe the five daily prayers, and I pay the zakaah, and I fast and stand in prayer in Ramadhan, then amongst whom shall I be? He said: Amongst the true followers of the prophets and the martyrs. [Ibn Hibbaan, Saheeh]
• Fasting is a shield against one’s base desires, as the Prophet (s.a.w.) told the youth: “O youths, whoever amongst you is able to marry then let him do so, since it restrains the eyes and protects the private parts, and he who is unable, then let him fast because it is a shield for him.” [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

Once we realize the greatness of fasting and what achievement it leads to, we must put all our efforts in performing the fast in the best manner possible. And since fasting is worship, it must be done solely for Allah’s sake, and no intention is accepted, other than pleasing Allah and seeking His Face with all one’s sincerity. Without a correct intention, no deed is of any value in the Hereafter.

We Muslims must constantly verify our intentions and consider why we perform fasting. Do we do so merely because it is the practice of our parents and friends, or do we do so because it is part of our tradition, or perhaps because we simply want to conform to our environment in order to avoid any problems? A Muslim who realizes that only that which is with Allah remains, and that He (swt) is the only One who grants and withholds, would not be of those to which the Prophet (s.a.w.) alluded in the Hadeeth: “On the Day of Judgement, a caller will cry out, ‘Whoever performed a deed for someone other than Allah may seek his reward from that for which he performed the deed’” [Saheeh al-Jami].

D. Ramadan and the Quran

This is based on an extract from Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali’s “Lataif al-Ma’arif” (pp. 179-182), quoted by Fahd bin Sulaiman in “Kay nastafeed min Ramadan” (pp. 48-50)

--------------begin quoting---------------------------

Ramadan has a special relationship with the Quran, of course, surah al-Baqarah:

“The month of Ramadan is the one in which the Quran was sent down ... so whoever amongst you witnesses this month, let him fast it...” [Note: in the tafsir of this verse, it is mentioned that the word ‘so’ (fa) in this verse gives the following paraphrase of one aspect of the meaning of the ayah: “Fast this month BECAUSE it is the one in which the Quran was sent down” -- see Sifah Sawm an-Nabee (saws) [eng. version] by Ali al-Halabi & Saleem al-Hilali for elaboration of this

In the Two Sahihs, from Ibn Abbas: “that the Messenger of Allah SAS was the most generous person, and he would be at his most generous in Ramadan, when Jibril would meet him and make him rehearse the Quran, Jibril would meet him every night in Ramadan to do this ...”

This hadith contains recommendation of the following:

• studying the Quran in Ramadan
• coming together for this purpose
• checking (one’s memory/knowledge of) the Quran with someone who has preserved it better
• increasing recitation of Quran in Ramadan
• The night time is the best time to recite, when other preoccupations are less & it is easier to concentrate, as in Surah Muzzammil.

Also, the hadith of Fatima (ra) from her father (saws), who told her that Jibril would rehearse the Quran with him (in Ramadan) once every year, and he did so twice in the year of his death (saws).

Then, Ibn Rajab talks about the situation of the Salaf during Ramadan:

“Some of the Salaf would finish (reciting the whole Quran) during the night prayer of Ramadan every 3 days, others every 7 days (e.g. Qataadah), others in 10 days (e.g. Abu Rajaa’ al-Atardi). The Salaf would recite Quran in Ramadan in Prayer as well as outside it.

Al-Aswad would finish the Quran every 2 nights in Ramadan; Ibrahim an-Nakh’i would do that in the last 10 nights specifically, & every 3 nights during the rest of the month. Qataadah would regularly finish the Quran in 7 days, but in 3 days during Ramadan, and every night during the last 10. Ash-Shafi’i would finish the Quran 60 times in Ramadan, outside of Prayer, and similar is reported about Abu Hanifah. Az-Zuhri would say when Ramadan began: It is recitation of Quran & feeding people. Ibn Abdul Hakam said: when Ramadan began, Malik would leave reciting Hadith and sitting with the people of knowledge, and stick to reciting the Quran from the Mushaf. Abdur Razzaaq said: When Ramadan began, Sufyan Thawri would leave other acts of worship and stick to reciting Quran.

Aishah (ra) would recite from the Mushaf at the beginning of the day in Ramadan (i.e. after Dawn), until when the sun had risen, she would sleep. Sufyan said: Zayd alYaami would bring copies of Quran when Ramadan began and gather his companions around him...”

Ibn Rajab later continues: “the forbiddance of finishing reciting the Quran in less than 3 days applies to this being made a regular practice, but as for favoured times such as Ramadan, esp. the nights in which Laylat al-Qadr is sought, or favoured places such as Makkah for the visitor, it is recommended to increase reciting the Quran to avail the time and place. This is the view of Ahmad, Ishaq & other imams, and the practice of others indicates this too, as has been mentioned.”

---------------------------------------end of quote from book------------------------------

E. Virtues of the Quran

Shaykh `Abdul Qadir al-Arna'oot

(c) IIPH 1999

• "The best of you is he who learns the Qur'an and teaches it." [al-Bukhari]
• "Will not any of you go to the masjid and learn or read two verses from the Book of Allah `azza wa jall? (For) that is better for him than two she-camels, and three (verses) are better for him than three (she-camels), and four (verses) are better for him than four (she-camels). And the number (of verses read in total) are better than the same number of camels." [Muslim]
• "There is no envy (acceptable) except in two (cases): a person whom Allah has given the Qur'an and recites it throughout the night and throughout the day. And a person whom Allah has given wealth, that he gives out throughout the night and throghout the day." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]
• "Whoever reads a letter from the Book of Allah will receive a hasanah (good deed) from it (i.e. his recitation), and the hasanah is multiplied by ten. I do not say that Alif-Laam-Meem is (considered as) a letter, rather Alif is a letter, Laam is a letter, and Meem is a letter." [At-Tirmidhi, Ad-Darimi]
• "He who is skillful in reciting the Qur'an is with the unveiled, honorable, and pious (i.e. Hur al `Ain). And he who stutters when reading the Qur'an, (and its recitation) is difficult upon him, will receive two rewards." [Al-Bukhari]
• "Verily he who has nothing of the Qur'an in his heart, is like a house (which has been) destroyed." [At-Tirmidhi]
• "Read the Qur'an. For verily it will come forth on the Day of Resurrection as an intercessor for its readers." [Muslim]
• "The Qur'an is an intercessor (which by Allah's permission) intercedes, and an opponent (which is) truthful. He who appoints it as his leader, (then it) will lead him to Paradise. And he who puts it behind him, (then it) will lead him to the Fire." [Ibn Hibban, Al-Bayhaqi, At-Tabarani, Sahih]
• "Fasting and the Qur'an will intercede for the slave on the Day of Resurrection. Fasting will say: 'O My Rabb! I prevented him from food and desires, so accept my intercession for him.' And the Qur'an will say: 'I prevented him from sleep during the night, so accept my intercession for him.' He (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said: 'And they will (be allowed to) intercede.'" [Ahmad, at-Tabarani, Al-Hakim, Sahih]
• "Maintain learning the Qur'an, by heart for verily it is greater in escaping from the chests of men than camels from their reins." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]
• "Verily Allah raises nations by this book (the Qur'an) and puts down (i.e. destroys) others by it." [Muslim]
• "The likeness of the believer who reads the Qur'an is like that of citron; its taste is delicious and its scent is pleasant. And the likeness of the believer who does not read the Qur'an is like that of a date; its taste is delicious, yet it has no scent. And the likeness of a hypocrite who reads the Qur'an is like that of a basil; its scent is pleasant, yet its taste is bitter. And the likeness of a hypocrite that does not read the Qur'an is like that of a colocynth; its taste is bitter and it has no scent." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]
• "It will be said to the beholder of the Qur'an: 'Recite, ascent and rattil (recite slowly and distinctly) as you used to rattil in the life of this world, for verily your level (in Paradise) is at the last verse you read." [Abu Dawud, at-Tirmidhi, Sahih]
• "Read the Qur'an, put it into practice, do not abandon it, do not put grudges (upon others) through it, and do not eat and gain wealth through it." [Ahmad, At-Tabarani, Sahih]
• "Read the Qur'an and through it seek the Face of Allah, Exalted be He, before there comes a nation that implements it like an arrow. They read it fast and they do not recite it slowly (to implement)." [Ahmad, Abu Dawud, Hasan]
• "Verily, the best of people with regards to voices, is he whom you feel fears Allah when he recites." [Ad-Darimi, Sahih]
• From Anas ibn Malik, radhiallahu `anhu, (who said) that the Messenger of Allah, sallallahu `alaihi wa sallam, said to Ubay ibn Ka`b (radiallahu `anhu):
  'Verily Allah has ordered me to read upon you.'
  He [Ubay] said: 'Has Allah named me for you?!'
  He [sallallahu `alaihi wa sallam] said: 'Allah has named you for me.'
  He [Anas] said: 'So Ubay began to weep.'
  [Muslim]
• "There is not a group which has gathered in a house from the houses of Allah, reciting the Book of Allah, and studying it between them, except that tranquility will descend upon them, mercy will befall them, the Angels will encircle them, and Allah will mention them to those who are with Him (i.e. the Angels). And he who falls short (in gaining knowledge and memorizing the Qur'an) should (be prompt in) action, (in) that which lineage (*) will not hasten him (to do)." [Muslim]
  (*) For example, if someone is the son of a scholar and falls short in gaining knowledge and memorizing the Qur'an, then it is upon him to hasten in redeeming himself through studying and hard work, not by relying upon his lineage, i.e. him being the son of a scholar, king, or even being from the descendants of the family of the Messenger, sallallahu `alaihi wa sallam, etc. This meaning is taken from An-Nawawi's explanation of Sahih Muslim. [Transl.]

F. The Essentials Elements of Fasting

Definition of Siyam (Fasting): Siyam in Arabic means “to abstain from something”.

For example, Allah says about Mariam (Mary) in the Qur’an that she said [meaning]: “Verily!, I have vowed a fast to the Most Beneficent (Allah) so I shall not speak to any human this day “[Maryam 19:26]. In religion (Islam) Siyam means “abstaining from food, drink, and sexual intercourse from dawn until sunset with the sincere intention of doing so (for the sake of Allah). Therefore the pillars of fasting are:

• 1-The intention: To sincerely fast for the sake of Allah. The intension need not be uttered. It is in reality an act of the heart which does not involve the tongue. It is a bid‘ah [innovation] to do so. The fact that one knows he is fasting the next day is “intention”. The fact of taking Suhoor is “intention. About sincerity in acts of worship Allah said in the Qur’an [in the meaning of]: “And they were ordained nothing else than to worship Allah, keeping religion pure for Him” [al-Bayyinah, Also the Messenger of Allah (S) said : Actions are judged according to the intention behind them, and for everyone is what he intended” [Bukhari and Muslim] The intention must be made before fajr and during every night of Ramadan and is valid if made in any part of the night. Hafsah reported that the Prophet (S) said: “Whoever does not determine to fast before fajr will have no fast” (that is it won’t be accepted) [an-Nasa’i, atTirmidhi, Abu Dawud, and others, Sahih].
• 2-Abstaining from the acts that break the fast: Allah says in the Qur’an [in the meaning of]: “Eat and drink until the white thread becomes distinct to you from the black thread of the dawn. Then strictly observe the fast until nightfall.” [al-Baqara, 2:187] ‘Adiyy Ibn Hatim said “When the Ayah “Eat and drink until the white thread becomes distinct to you ...” was revealed, I took a black thread and a white thread and placed them underneath my pillow. During the night I looked at them to if I could distinguish between them. In the morning I went the Messenger of Allah and mentioned that to him and he said: ‘It is the black of the night and the white of the day.’” [Bukhari and Muslim] Therefore, the believer must fast from Fajr [dawn] to Maghrib [sunset].

G. Actions Which Nullify the Fast

The following acts, when done knowingly and deliberately in the days of Ramadhan, will invalidate the fast. In addition to being considered great sins, a person committing one of these acts will have to continue fasting the rest of the day that he/she committed it, and he/she is also required to take certain measures of reconciliation as indicated below.

• 1- Intentional eating, drinking - Allah says [in the meaning of]: “Eat and drink until the white thread becomes distinct to you from the black thread of the dawn. Then strictly observe the fast until nightfall.” [al-Baqara, 2:187]. This applies to the one who does so consciously. However, if a person eats or drinks forgetfully or accidently or is forced to do it, the fasting is intact, the day is not to be made up and the person should continue fasting. Abu Hurairah reported that the Prophet (S) said:”Whoever forgets he is fasting, and eats or drinks is to complete his fast, as it is Allah who fed him and gave him something to drink.” [Bukhari, Muslim and others] Ibn Abbas reported that the Prophet (S) said:” Allah has excused for my Ummah mistakes, forgetfulness and what they are forced to do”. [Tahawee, al-Hakim and Daraqutni; Sahih]. Similar to eating and drinking is smoking [besides being prohibited in itself] and letting any substance into the stomach. However, if a person eats or drink out of forgetfulness, then he/she should continue fasting and the day fasted is valid and counted and does not need to make up the day. This is based on the hadith of Abu Huraira in Sahih al-Bukhari: The Prophet said, “If somebody eats or drinks forgetfully then he should complete his fast, for what he has eaten or drunk, has been given to him by Allah.”. Similarly if a person breaks the fast before the actual maghrib (sunset) or after fajr because of a mistake in time recognition, he is not to make up the day.
• 2-Sexual intercourse - Just like eating and drinking Allah has forbidden sexual intercourse during the days of Ramadan; “Permitted to you, on the night of the fasts, is the approach to your wives. They are your garments and ye are their garments. Allah knows what you used to do secretly among yourselves; but He turned to you and forgave you; so now associate (i.e. have sexual intercourse) with them, and seek what Allah Hath ordained for you (i.e. offspring), and eat and drink, until the white thread of dawn appear to you distinct from its black thread; then complete your fast till the night appears; but do not associate with your wives while you are in seclusion (I‘tikaf) in the mosques. Those are Limits (set by) Allah. Approach not nigh thereto. Thus does Allah make clear His Signs to men: that they may learn self-restraint. [al-Baqara; 2:187] The ‘ulama’ [Scholars] differ about stimulating oneself [whether alone or with his wife or vise versa], without intercourse, to the point of ejaculation. Some of them treat it as complete intercourse, while others say that it does not invalidate the fast even though it causes a loss of its rewards.
• 3-Intentional vomiting - Abu Hurairah reported that the Prophet (S) said :”Whoever is overcome and vomits is not to make up the day. Whoever vomits intentionally must make up the day.” [Ahmad, Abu Dawud, at-Tirmithi and Ibn Majah; Sahih]
• 4- Failing to intend (i.e. with the heart) to fast from before the dawn of the day of fast.- (Note: voluntary or nafl fasting is excepted from this requirement) Intending to stop fasting at any moment during the day of fast. These last two actions are actions of the heart and are related to the intention which has been shown as being an essential element [or pillar] of fasting. These actions void the fast even if the person does not actually eat anything. This is because the intention is one of the pillars of the fast and, if one changes his/her intention, he/she has nullified his/her fast. Except intercourse, a day invalidated by such an action cannot be atoned by even fasting the whole life. Thus, in addition to the qadha’ [making up the day], the only way to atone such an act is by true and sincere repentance and strong determination never to do it. The only action, according to most scholars, which requires that both the day be made up and the act of expiation be performed is having sexual intercourse during a day of Ramadan. Abu Hurairah reported that a man came to the Messenger of Allah and said: “I am destroyed, 0 Messenger of Allah!” The Prophet asked: “What has destroyed you?” He said, “I had intercourse with my wife during a day of Ramadan.” The Prophet asked: “Are you able to free a slave?” He said, “No”. The Prophet asked: “Is it possible for you to fast for two consecutive months?” He said, “No.” The Prophet asked: “Is it possible for you to feed sixty poor people?” He said, “No.” The Prophet said: “Then sit.” A basket of dates was brought to the Prophet and he said to the man: Give this in charity. The man said: “To someone poorer than us? There is no one in this city who is poorer than us!” The Prophet laughed until his molar teeth could be seen and said: “Go and feed your family with it.” [Bukhari, Muslim and others] Most scholars say that both men and women have to perform the acts of expiation (Kaffarah) if they intentionally have intercourse during a day of Ramadan on which they had intended to fast.
• 5- Injections containing nourishment - Though this type of action is committed intentionally and thus falls under intentional eating and drinking, it is not considered as a sin if given to a sick person in need of it. All what is needed is to make up the day later. These injections are meant to give nourishment intravenously so that it reaches the intestines, with the intention of nourishing the sick person. Also if the injection reaches the blood-stream then it likewise breaks the fast since it is being used in place of food and drink. Similar is the use of drips containing glucose and saline solutions, and inhalers used by people sick of asthma. May Allah relieve all sick believers.

Involuntarily events that break the fast The fast is disrupted (and there is no point or reward then in continuing to fast) when a woman sees the blood caused by either of:

H. Other Rulings Pertaining to Fasting

• The interval between the end of suhoor (the pre-dawn meal) and the start of the obligatory prayer is the interval sufficient to recite fifty Aayaat, as indicated by the Prophet (s.a.w.) and related by al-Bukhaaree and Muslim.
• Eating the pre-dawn meal (suhoor) contains many blessings and the Prophet (s.a.w.) ordered us to do take it, forbade us from leaving it and told us to take suhoor to make a distinction between our fast and the fast of the People of the Book. In spite of this, Ibn Hajar reports in Fathul-Baaree that there is Ijmaa that it is mustahabb (recommendation). Allah knows best.
• Falsehood, ignorant and indecent speech are to be avoided as they may render one’s fasting futile.
• A fasting person can begin fasting while in the state of Janaabah (major state of impurity that requires bath due to a sexual intercourse), as explained in Saheeh al-Bukhaaree and Muslim.
• Use of Siwaak (tooth-stick) is permitted. Likewise, washing the mouth and nose is permitted, but it should not be done strongly.
• The Prophet discouraged a youth from kissing while fasting, while he allowed an old man since he is able to control himself.
• Pouring cold water over one’s head and taking a bath contain no harm to a fasting person.
• It is the Sunnah of the Prophet and the practice of his companions to break the fast as soon as the Sun sets even if some bright redness remains upon the horizon. Muslims are strongly encouraged to hasten breaking the fast. The Prophet (s.a.w.) said: “The Deen will not cease to be uppermost as long as the people hasten to break the fast, since the Jews and the Christians delay it.” [Abu Daawood, Ibn Hibbaan, Hasan]
• The Prophet (s.a.w.) used to break his fast before praying and he used to break it with fresh dates, if not then with older dates. And if not with dates, than with some mouthfuls of water.
• The supplication of the fasting person when he breaks his fast is not rejected. The best du’aa’ (supplication) is that reported from Allah’s Messenger (pbuh). He used to say when breaking the fast: “Dhahaba-DH-DHama’u wabtallatil-’urooqu, wa thabatal ajru inshaa Allah.” (The thirst has gone, the veins are moistened and the reward is certain, if Allah wills.) [Abu Daawood, al-Baihaqee, al-Haakim and others, Hasan]
• The Prophet said: “He who gives food for a fasting person to break his fast, he will receive the same reward as him, except that nothing will be reduced from the fasting persons reward.” [Ahmad, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah, Ibn Hibbaan, Saheeh]. Also, a fasting Muslim should not reject invitation of another Muslim to break fast.
• As for Lailatul-Qadr, the Night of Decree, that is better than a thousand months (see Soorah Qadr (97)), the Prophet (s.a.w.) told us: “Seek it in the last ten, and if one of you is too weak or unable then let him not allow that to make him miss the final seven.” [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]. That which is the most specific states, “seek it on the (twenty) ninth and the (twenty) seventh and the (twenty) fifth.” [al-Bukhaaree]
• The Prophet (s.a.w.) used to exert himself greatly during Lailatul-Qadr. He would spend the nights in worship, detaching himself from women and ordering his family with this. So every Muslim should be eager to stand in prayer during Lailatul Qadr out of Iman and hoping for the great reward. The Prophet (s.a.w.) said: “Whoever stands (in prayer) in Lailatul Qadr out of Iman and seeking reward then his previous sins are forgiven.” [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]
• The supplication that the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.) taught ‘Aa’isha, radiyallaahu ‘anhaa, to say when seeking the Night of Decree is: O Allah you are the one who pardons greatly, and loves to pardon, so pardon me.[at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah,, Saheeh]
• It is Sunnah to pray Taraweeh in congregation and the one who knew best the practice of the Prophet (s.a.w.) at night, ‘Aa’isha, radiyallaahu ‘anhaa, said: “Allah’s Messenger did not increase upon eleven rak’ahs in Ramadhan, or outside it.” [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]
• All who are capable should take advantage of the month of Ramadhan and perform I’ikaaf, i.e. fully attach oneself to worshipping in the mosque. One should inquire how the Prophet (s.a.w.) performed I’ikaaf.
• Zakaatul Fitr is prescribed by Allah as a purification for those who fasted from loose and indecent talk, and to feed the poor Muslims as a provision for eidul Fitr. One should inquire further about rulings related to it, especially upon whom it is obligatory and what is its quantity.
• The last but not the least, we should strive to constantly improve our worship and obedience of Allah the Most High, including once the month of Ramadhan is over, inshaa’ Allah

Ramadan Blessings !

• The month of Ramadan is a month in which the Mercy and Blessings of Allah Ta'ala descend upon us continuously.
• The whole Qur'aan was sent down to the first sky from Lawhe Mahfooz.
• There is the night of Qadr, which is better than 1000 months.
• The thawaab of good deed is equal to the fardh of another month. Tthe daily bread of Muslims is increased.
• The first ten days are of mercy, second ten days are of forgiveness and the last ten days are of being freed from Hell.

This is the month of patience and the reward of this patience is Jannah.

Shab-eMiraj !!

Shab-i-Miraj means the night of Ascent. It is the blessed night when the Holy Prophet of Islam was spiritually transported to heaven and he reached a high stage of nearness to God Almighty which is beyond ordinary human comprehension. The Ascent took place on 27th day or Rajab, 2 years before Hijra. The journey was not with a physical body but was a vision of the highest type. On the way the Holy Prophet, peace be upon him, met Adam, Abraham, Moses, Jesus and some other Prophets. The purpose of the Ascent was to confirm the high status of the Prophet of Islam, a position which all Muslims believe, is impossible to attain by any other human being. It is related that even Gabriel, the Angel who was accompanying the Holy Prophet remarked at one stage, 'I am forced to stop here. I cannot go any further, but you O Messenger of peace and friend of the Master of the worlds, continue your glorious ascent.'

ALLAH IS ONE !!!

HaPpY FaThEr'S DaY !!!

My Dad
When I was just a tiny kid,
Do you remember when,
The time you kissed my bruises,
Or cleaned by soiled chin?
You scrambled for the balls I hit,
(Short-winded more than not,)
Yet, every time we’d play a game,
You praised the “outs” I caught.
It seems like only yesterday,
You wiped away my tears,
And late at night I called your name,
To chase away my fears.
Though time has changed your handsome grip,
Your hair is snowy white,
You gait’s a little slower now,
Thick glasses help your sight.
Oh, do I thirst for years gone by,
To be that growing lad,
Re-living all of the memories,
Of growing with my dad.

Surah Rehman With English Translation !

Allah !!! He is so merciful...

Jumma Mubarak to All ..

JUMMA ke din
MAGHRIB aur ISHA
k darmiyan teen baar
SURAH FATEHA
parhney se ALLAH
purey saal k rizk ka
intezam kr deta he

Subahanallah

Five Pillars of Islam !!

The 'Five Pillars' of Islam are the foundation of Muslim life:

Faith or belief in the Oneness of God and the finality of the prophethood of Muhammad;
Establishment of the daily prayers;
Concern for and almsgiving to the needy;
Self-purification through fasting; and
The pilgrimage to Makkah for those who are able.

Iman or Faith

"There is none worthy of worship except God and Muhammad is the messenger of God." This declaration of faith is called the Shahadah, a simple formula that all the faithful pronounce. The significance of this declaration is the belief that the only purpose of life is to serve and obey God, and this is achieved through the teachings and practices of the Last Prophet, Muhammad.


Salah or Prayer

Salah is the name for the obligatory prayers that are performed five times a day, and are a direct link between the worshipper and God. There is no hierarchical authority in Islam and there are no priests. Prayers are led by a learned person who knows the Qur'an and is generally chosen by the congregation.

Prayers are said at dawn, mid-day, late-afternoon, sunset and nightfall, and thus determine the rhythm of the entire day. These five prescribed prayers contain verses from the Qur'an, and are said in Arabic, the language of the Revelation. Personal supplications, however, can be offered in one's own language and at any time.

Although it is preferable to worship together in a mosque, a Muslim may pray almost anywhere, such as in fields, offices, factories and universities. Oftentimes visitors to the Muslim world are struck by the centrality of prayers in daily life.

A translation of the Adan or Call to Prayer is:

God is Great.
God is Great.
God is Great.
God is Great.
I testify that there is none worthy of worship except God.
I testify that there is none worthy of worship 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!
Come to success!
God is Great!
God is Great!
There is none worthy of worship except God.


Zakah

The financial obligation upon Muslims.

An important principle of Islam is that everything belongs to God, and that wealth is therefore held by human beings in trust. The word zakah means both "purification" and "growth." Our possessions are purified by setting aside a proportion for those in need and for the society in general. Like the pruning of plants, this cutting back balances and encourages new growth.

Each Muslim calculates his or her own zakah individually. This involves the annual payment of a fortieth of one's capital, excluding such items as primary residence, car and professional tools.

An individual may also give as much as he or she pleases as sadaqa-h, 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 an act of charity." The Prophet also 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 of the Prophet asked: "What if he is not able to work?" The Prophet said: "He should help the poor and needy." The Companions further asked: "What if 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 an act of charity."


Sawm or Fasting

Every year in the month of Ramada-n, all Muslims fast from dawn until sundown--abstaining from food, drink, and sexual relations with their spouses.

Those who are sick, elderly, or on a journey, and women who are menstruating, pregnant or nursing, are permitted to break the fast and make up an equal number of days later in the year if they are healthy and able. Children begin to fast (and to observe prayers) from puberty, although many start earlier.

Although fasting is beneficial to health, it is mainly a method of self-purification and self-restraint. By cutting oneself from worldly comforts, even for a short time, a fasting person focuses on his or her purpose in life by constantly being aware of the presence of God. God states in the Qur'an: "O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed to those before you that you may learn self-restraint." (Qur'an 2:183)


Hajj or Pilgrimage

The pilgrimage to Makkah (the hajj) is an obligation only for those who are physically and financially able to do so. Nevertheless, over 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.

The annual hajj begins in the twelfth month of the Islamic year (which is lunar, not solar, so that hajj and Ramada-n fall sometimes in summer, sometimes in winter). Pilgrims wear special clothes: simple garments that 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 going around the Ka'bah seven times, and going seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa as did Hagar (Hajir, Abraham's wife) during her search for water. The pilgrims later stand together on the wide plains of 'Arafat (a large expanse of desert outside Makkah) and join in prayer for God's forgiveness, in what is often thought as a preview of the Day of Judgment.

The close of the hajj is marked by a festival, the 'Id al Adha, which is celebrated with prayers and the exchange of gifts in Muslim communities everywhere. This and the 'Id al Fitr, a festive day celebrating the end of Ramada-n, are the two holidays of the Islamic calendar.

Remember me in your prayers !
yours Sister Nilofur..

Virtues of Friday (Jummah Mubarak) !

When some of us think of Friday, we sometimes associate this day as “The Day” to sit down on that heavenly lounge chair, sip a nice cup of coffee or tea and lift our feet and know that you could care less what your boss wants you to do. This is the day where all worries from the week have been kicked up to the following Monday or Tuesday or whatever day just as long as you don’t have to think about it on Friday. This is the onset of the great weekend that you’ve been planning for since the beginning of the week. A day of fun, partying, vacationing, or just enjoying the time with family and friends.

This day has become so popular that there’s even a restaurant that is called TGI Fridays the famous acronym that means ”Thank Goodness it’s Friday”. This is what we sometimes associate with this great day; however, there is a great virtue and significance behing the day of Friday in the Islamic religion.

The day of Friday in Islam carries many virtues and blessings. This was the day that Adam (pbuh) was created, the day he was placed into Paradise, the day he was sent down to the earth, and Friday was the day that he died. Friday is also a day when our supplications to Allah are answered as long as it isn’t something forbidden. This is also the day where the onset of the last hour will begin. Allah has made this day the master of all other days to the extent that it is greater to Allah than the days of Al-Fitr and Al-Adha. The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) has mentioned all these characteristics in the following hadiths.

It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah and Hudhayfah (may Allaah be pleased with them) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Allaah led those who came before us away from Friday. The Jews had Saturday, and the Christians had Sunday. Then Allaah brought us and Allaah guided us to Friday. So there is Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and thus they will follow us on the Day of Resurrection. We are the last of the people of this world but we will be the first on the Day of Resurrection, and we will be dealt with before all others.” (Muslim)

It was narrated from Aws ibn Aws that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The best of your days is Friday. On that day Adam (peace be upon him) was created; on that day he died; on that day the Trumpet will be blown and on that day all of creation will swoon. So send a great deal of blessings upon me, for your blessings will be shown to me.” They said, “O Messenger of Allaah, how will our blessings upon you be shown to you when you have turned to dust?” He said, “Allaah has forbidden the earth to consume the bodies of the Prophets, peace be upon them.” (Abu Dawood; Classed as saheeh by Ibn al-Qayyim in his comments on Sunan Abi Dawood, 4/273; and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood, 925.)

It was narrated that Abu Lubaabah ibn ‘Abd al-Mundhir said: The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Friday is the master of days, and the greatest of them before Allaah. It is greater before Allaah than the day of al-Adha and the day of al-Fitr. It has five characteristics: on this day Allaah created Adam, on it He sent Adam down to the earth, on it Allaah caused Adam to die, on it there is a time when a person does not ask Allaah for anything but He gives it to him, so long as he does not ask for anything haraam, and on it the Hour will begin. There is no angel who is close to Allaah, no heaven, no earth, no wind, no mountain and no sea that does not fear Friday.” (Narrated by Ibn Maajah; 1084; Classed as hasan by Shaykh al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’, no. 2279)

In Al-Bukhari and Muslim it is mentioned that during a specific time during Friday whatever we ask Allah He will grant it to us as long as it’s not forbidden in the religion. Here is the narration of the hadith.

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said while talking about the merits of Friday, “There is a time on Friday at which a Muslim, while he (or she) is performing Salat and is supplicating, will be granted whatever he (or she) is supplicating for.” And he (pbuh) pointed with his hand to indicate that this period of time is very short. (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

One of the virtues of Friday is the Friday Prayer (Salat Al-Jumuah). This is the best prayer. It’s significance is so great that there is a whole chapter in the Quran that is named Al-Jumuah. Allah makes mention of the importance of Friday in the Quran where He says in the translation of the meaning:

“O you who believe (Muslims)! When the call is proclaimed for the Salaah (prayer) on Friday (Jumu‘ah prayer), come to the remembrance of Allaah [Jumu‘ah religious talk (Khutbah) and Salaah (prayer)] and leave off business (and every other thing). That is better for you if you did but know!” (Al-Jumu’ah 62:9)

This is a day where Allah the All-Merciful forgives our minor sins not just for that day but for a week and an extra three days. This is mentioned in the hadith narrated in Sahih Muslim.

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “If anyone performs Wudu’ properly, then comes to the Friday prayer, listens to the Khutbah (religious talk) attentively and keeps silent, his (minor) sins between that Friday and the following Friday will be forgiven, with the addition of three more days; but he who touches pebbles has caused an interruption. ” (Muslim)

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him)reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, “The five daily (prescribed) Salat, and Friday (prayer) to the next Friday (prayer), and the fasting of Ramadan to the next Ramadan, is expiation of the sins committed in between them, so long as major sins are avoided.” (Muslim)

Another Virtue of Friday is the praying the Fajr prayer in congregation on the day of Friday.

It was narrated that Ibn ‘Umar said: The Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The best prayer before Allaah is Fajr prayer on Friday in congregation.” (Al-Jaami 1119) Classed as Sahih by Al-Albaani.

It is also sunnah to recite Surah Al-Sajdaah in the first rakaah (prostration) and Surah Al-Insaan in the second for the fajr prayer held on the day of Friday as this was mentioned in the following hadith where Abu Hurairah narrated.

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to recite in Fajr prayer in Fridays Alif-Laam-Meem Tanzeel (Soorat al-Sajdah) in the first rak’ah and Hal ata ‘ala’l-insaan heenun min al-dahr lam yakun shay’an madhkooran (Soorat al-Insaan) in the second. (Al-Bukhaari, 851; Muslim, 880)

Another great virtue of this day is the that if a Muslim dies on the day or night of Friday, Allah will protect them from the trials of the grave.

It was narrated that ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Amr said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “There is no Muslim who dies during the day of Friday or the night of Friday but Allaah will protect him from the trial of the grave.” (At-Tirmidhi) Classed as Sahih by Al-Albaani in Ahkaam al-Janaa’iz, p. 49, 50.

The Friday Prayer in itself has many blessings and rewards as we will see in the following hadiths that mention not only the importance of attending the jumuah prayer (for men it’s obligatory to attend, but optional for women), but the rewards and the bounty of attending it.

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “He who takes a bath on Friday, like the bath for ceremonial purity, and then goes (to the mosque), he is like one who offers a camel as a sacrifice to seek the Pleasure of Allah; and he who comes at the second hour is like one who offers a cow to win the Pleasure of Allah; and he who comes at the third hour is like one who offers a ram with horns (in sacrifice); and he who comes at the fourth hour is like one who offers a hen; and he who comes at the fifth hour is like one who offers an egg. And when the Imam ascends the pulpit, the angels (who write the names of those who come to the mosque before the coming of the Imam) close (their record) in order to listen to the Khutbah.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim).

Aus bin Aus (May Allah be pleased with him)reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Among the best of your days is Friday. On that day pray to Allah to exalt my mention frequently, for your such supplications are presented to me.” (Abu Dawud)

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him)reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, “The five daily (prescribed) Salat, and Friday (prayer) to the next Friday (prayer), and the fasting of Ramadan to the next Ramadan, is expiation of the sins committed in between them, so long as major sins are avoided.”
(Muslim)

Allah says in the translation of the meaning: “Then when the (Jumu`ah) Salat is ended, you may disperse through the land, and seek the Bounty of Allah (by working), and remember Allah much: that you may be successful.” (Al-Jumuah 62:10)

The attendance to the Friday Prayer is also written down by angels who stand at every gate of the mosque to write down the names of people in chronological order of their attendance.

Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, “On every Friday the angels take heir stand at every gate of the mosques to write the names of the people chronologically (i.e. according to the time of their arrival for the Friday prayer and when the Imam sits (on the pulpit) they fold up their scrolls and get ready to listen to the sermon.” (Al-Bukhari)

How would anyone want to miss the Friday Prayer knowing that the angels company is there among us and sit and prepare themselves to listen to the Imam’s sermon. Subhanallah, the angels are part of the unseen world, but knowing that they are in our presence is such a beautiful illustration. How could anyone put their personal desires above acts of remembrance of Allah and not attend the Friday Prayer. There is a hadith that mentions what happens to those who become unmindful of this day and what may happen due to their negligence.

Ibn `Umar and Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: We heard the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) saying (while delivering Khutbah on his wooden pulpit), “Either some people (i.e., hypocrites) stop neglecting the Friday prayers, or Allah will seal their hearts and they will be among the heedless.” (Muslim)

These are just several characteristics, virtues, and blessings of the best day of the week. The day of Friday. Allah and the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) have told us what a great day this is for all of mankind. A day that is filled with the Mercy of Allah and rewards that will be heavy on our scales inshallah on the Day of Judgement. Inshallah the brothers of our nation also see the significance of attending the Jumuah (Friday) Prayer and will strive to have a perfect attendance, and for the Muslim sisters, although this day isn’t an obligation for us, it’s still a blessing for us to attend the Friday Prayer if possible.

Allah has perfected our way of life and although many indulge in sins and personal pleasures during this day, as Muslims we know the true meaning and importance of Friday. We may all say thank goodness it’s Friday; however, the meaning behind the famous acronym “TGIF” is more valuable and signficant in the hearts of Muslims than any other nation. Allah has not only given us the information but He has given us the motivation to spend this beautiful day wisely so we may compete with one another to attain good deeds for His sake. Jumuah Mubarak!!! (Happy Friday!!!)

May Allah keep us guided and on the straight path, and purify our intentions to make it soley for His sake, and give us the understanding in Islam that we may see its richness and its iron strong foundation so that we may never go astray.

(If I am right it is from Allah (swt). If I have said anthing wrong it is from me, and I am wrong. I ask Allah for His forgiveness, and mercy. Amin)