Etiquettes in the Holy Month of Ramadhaan
- Respect for the Month of Ramadhaan :
Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) has said, “The person who serves his parents according to the best of his abilities in the month of Ramadhaan, Allaah Ta’ala looks at him with special Mercy and takes the responsibility of forgiving him upon Himself. The wife who remains busy in Ramadhaan in pleasing her husband will be granted the companionship of Hazrath Mariam and Hazrath Aasiya (Radhiyallaahu 'Anhuma) in Paradise.”
Once, in the city of Bukhara, the son of a fire worshipper was eating in the market of Muslims during the month of Ramadhaan. Upon seeing him, his father slapped him on the face and expressed great disappointment. The son said, “O my Father! You also eat all day long during the month of Ramadhaan.” The father replied, “I do not fast at all and do eat but I do it in secret at home. I do not eat in front of the Muslims out of respect for this month.” Sometime later, the fire worshipper died and a pious resident of Bukhara saw in his dream that the fire worshipper was walking in Paradise. He asked him, “You were a fire worshipper, how did you get into Paradise?” The fire worshipper replied, “It is true that I was a fire worshipper but, close to the time of death, Allaah Ta’ala granted me the guidance to accept Islam. This is the blessings of respecting the month of Ramadhaan that I died as a Muslim and Allaah Ta’ala granted me Paradise as a result of respecting Ramadhaan and accepting Islam.” [Nuzhatul Majaalis]
SubhaanAllaah! When a fire worshipper who respected the month of Ramadhaan was granted faith and Paradise by Allaah Ta’ala, if we Muslims respect the month of Ramadhaan and do not violate its sanctity, then we will definitely be deserving of the Grace of the Almighty, Insha Allaah.
On the Day of Judgement, a person will be brought in such a state that the angels will be beating him mercilessly. He will seek support from Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) who will ask the angels, “What is his sin? Why are you beating him so much?” The angels will reply, “He obtained the month of Ramadhaan but still continued to disobey Allaah Ta’ala.” Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) will be about to intercede for him when a voice will state, “O My Beloved! The petitioner against him is the month of Ramadhaan.” Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) will say, “I am disgusted with those people whom Ramadhaan petitions against.”
Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “The person who safeguards three things is undoubtedly a Friend of Allaah Ta’ala, and know that the person who forsakes these three is an enemy of Allaah Ta’ala. These three things are fasting, Namaaz and compulsory bathing (Ghusl-e-Janaabat).”
The Paradise of Allaah Ta’ala longs for four kinds of people:
- A person who fasts in the month of Ramadhaan.
- A person who regularly recites the Holy Qur’an.
- A person who safeguards his tongue.
- A person who feeds his hungry neighbours.
On the Day of Judgement, when Allaah Ta’ala orders the people to rise from the graves, He will say to the Angel of Paradise, “O Ridwan! Go and greet my bondsmen who used to fast, and used to go hungry and thirsty for My sake. Go with all the bounties of Paradise and present it to them.” Hazrath Ridwan (Alaihis Salaam) will call out, “O workers of Paradise, bring large serving plates of Paradise, and bring food and drink equivalent to the grains of sand in the world, equal to the drops of rain, and equal to the stars in the sky and leaves on the trees.” This will all be brought and placed in front of the people who used to fast. They will then be told, “Eat as much as you please. This is the reward for the fasts that you observed in the world.”
Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “On the night of Me’raj, I saw an Angel at Sidratul Muntaha that I had never seen before. It is so big in length and breadth that it would take a hundred thousand years to cover its size. It has 70,000 heads and each head has 70,000 faces and each face has 70,000 tongues. On each tongue is 70,000 birds of light and on each bird there is a hundred thousand pearls dangling. Each pearl contains a large river and there are huge fish in the river. The size of each fish is 2 years travel time. On the stomach of each fish is written ‘Laa Ilaaha Illallaah Muhammadur Rasoolullaahi.’ The angel has one hand on his head and the other hand on his back. When he praises Allaah Ta’ala in his sweet voice, the Throne of Allaah Ta’ala is overjoyed and sways from side to side in happiness. I asked Jibra’eel (Alaihis Salaam) about this angel and was told that this angel was created 2000 years before Hazrath Adam (Alaihis Salaam) was created. This angel has been ordered by Allaah Ta’ala to pray rosaries (Tasbeeh) on behalf of me and all those from my Ummah who fast.”
- Safeguard Yourself from Sin :
When looking at the meaning of fasting, most of us think it only entails the apparent conditions of not eating or drinking and not having sexual relations from sunrise to sunset. However, there are certain hidden etiquettes of fasting as well which must be respected and obeyed. The hidden etiquettes are that all parts of the body must be prevented from committing acts that are against the laws of Shariah. Only then can we truly benefit from the blessings of fasting and only then will we be successful in receiving the reward of becoming pious, as Allaah Ta’ala says “O Believers! Fasting has been made obligatory upon you as were made obligatory upon those before you, so that you may become pious. [Surah 2, Verse 183]” Therefore, let us study the fast of the parts of the body and try to act upon them.
- It is essential to safeguard the tongue from committing sin by lying, backbiting, using vulgar language etc. Lying is a grave sin that destroys the reward for fasting. We should always refrain from lying but it is especially critical to stay away from lying in the month of Ramadhaan because if we lie whilst we are fasting, then we have defeated the purpose of fasting. Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) has said, “If a person does not refrain from lying, then Allaah Ta’ala has no need for him to give up his food and drink.” [Bukhari Shareef ]
- Backbiting is a sin that many of us commit daily, often without realizing it. During the time of Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam), two ladies were fasting but became so thirsty that they feared for their lives. Finally, they asked Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) for permission to break the fast. Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) sent a bowl to them and told them to vomit everything that they had eaten into the bowl. They did as they were told and their vomit contained running blood and clots of blood also. The people were astonished at seeing this and Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “These two women ate Sehri with those things that Allaah Ta’ala has made lawful, but then broke their fast with something that has been made unlawful by Allaah Ta’ala; in other words, they remained busy in backbiting.” Remember, backbiting is such an evil sin that Allaah Ta’ala has compared it to ‘eating the meat of your dead brother.’ Allaah Ta’ala states in the Holy Qur’an, “…and do not backbite one another. Would any of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? You would abominate it… [Surah 49, Verse 12]” Therefore, we must always, and especially in the month of Ramadhaan, attempt to refrain from backbiting or speaking ill of others.
- It is essential to safeguard the ears from hearing evil things at all times, but special attention should be paid to ensure this whilst fasting. It is said that there is fasting for every part of the body, and fasting of the ears is that they should be protected from hearing evil and useless things as hearing such things has a great effect on the heart, which turns thoughts towards sinning. It is essential for a fasting person to refrain from listening to backbiting, lies, jokes, film stories, film songs and crude talk. Listen to recitation of the Holy Qur’an and Naaths and Insha Allaah, the heart will be illuminated and the spiritual benefits of fasting will be obtained.
- It is essential for us to safeguard our eyes, especially whilst we are fasting. We have to safeguard our eyes from looking at na-mahram women, TV, dancing, songs, movies and nude or obscene pictures. Looking at such things turns the mind towards committing sins and that destroys the spirit of fasting. Therefore, we must save our eyes from such things and should rather look at and recite the Holy Qur’an and Insha Allaah, we will obtain untold benefits.
- The aim and object of fasting is to instil in our hearts the enthusiasm to refrain from all kinds of sins. All sins that are committed by humans are first thought about in the heart before they are carried out. Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) has said, “There is a piece of meat in the body of humans, if that remains safe then the whole body is safe, and if that becomes corrupted then the whole body is corrupted; that piece of meat is the heart.” Therefore, it is essential for us to safeguard our hearts from false and evil thoughts.
- And lastly, one of the major sins that many of us neglect to safeguard ourselves from, is not reading our five times Salaah. Salaah is compulsory and one would never be able to truly benefit from the blessings of fasting by neglecting the Salaah. In fact, one would be committing a grave sin by disobeying the command of Allaah Ta’ala in such a sanctified month, which can only lead to the Anger of Allaah Ta’ala.
After saving every part of one’s body from committing sin, out of fear of Allaah Ta’ala and for the pleasure of Allaah Ta’ala, a person has full faith that I obeyed the orders of the Almighty Allaah completely and Allaah Ta’ala will definitely accept the supplication that I make at this time, just as Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) has said, “The supplications of three types of people are never rejected; a fasting person at the time of Iftaar, a just ruler, and an oppressed person.” [Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah]
- Recitation of the Holy Qur’an :
The revelation of the Holy Qur’an onto the blessed heart of Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) began in this very month, and who can know this relationship better than Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam). The relationship between the month of Ramadhaan and the Holy Qur’an can also be seen in a Hadith that is narrated by Hazrath Abdullah bin Umar (RadiAllaahu Ta’ala Anh) in which Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “Fasting and the Qur’an will intercede on behalf of a person. The fast will say “O Almighty Lord! I stopped him from eating and fulfilling his desires during the day, accept my intercession on his behalf.” The Qur’an will say, “I prevented him from sleeping at night, accept my intercession on his behalf.” ” Therefore we should make it a habit to recite the Holy Qur’an so that we may thrive on the blessings and excellences thereof.
Hazrath Abu Hurairah (RadiAllaahu Ta’ala Anh) narrates that, “If a person desires that he loves Allaah Ta’ala and His Beloved Rasool (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam), he should recite the Holy Qur’an.” Many of us claim to love Allaah Ta’ala and His Beloved Rasool (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) but our claims are short-lived without any action. Therefore, if you claim to love Allaah Ta’ala and want to be truthful in that claim, then make it your habit to recite the Holy Qur’an and firmly act on its orders.
The Holy Qur’an is such a book that looking at it, reciting it, learning it and contemplating its meanings are all forms of worship. Our minds are unable to comprehend the reward that Allaah Ta’ala grants for reciting the Holy Qur’an. Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “One who recites the Qur’an and then thinks that someone else received more reward than him, such a person has definitely taken lightly, something that has been made very exalted by Allaah Ta’ala.”
When a heart is drowned in fulfilling its desires and committing various kinds of sins, becomes neglectful of the remembrance of Almighty Allaah, and forgets its reason for being alive, the result is that, little by little, it becomes rusted, and this rust is the cause of dissension in the whole body. Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “Undoubtedly, hearts get rusted just as iron gets rusty when water falls on it.” The Blessed Companions asked, “Ya Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam), how is the heart cleaned?” Our Beloved Aaqa (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) replied, “Remembering death often and reciting the Holy Qur’an.” [Mishkaat Shareef]
If any of us are guilty of disobeying the commands of Allaah Ta’ala in this blessed month, let us make Taubah (repent) and try to stay away from committing sins. Let us also try to make as much Ibaadat as possible in these last ten days that are left because we do not know if we will see another Ramadhaan Shareef. May Allaah Ta’ala grant us the Taufeeq to always respect the month of Ramadhaan, and to always seek His pleasure and the pleasure of His Beloved, our Aaqa Muhammad Mustafa Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam, Aameen.
The Excellence of Ramadhaan
The month of Ramadhaan is a blessing for which Muslims await throughout the year. Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) referred to this month as “The Month of My Ummah” and it is no doubt a month in which the Ummah can take advantage of the innumerable blessings, both spiritual and worldly. Hereunder is a discussion of some of the excellent qualities of the month of Ramadhaan, as told to us by our Beloved Master Muhammad Mustafa (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam). Insha Allaah it would inspire us to perform as many good deeds as we can during this sacred month.
Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) once delivered a sermon on the last day of Shabaan and said the following from his blessed lips: “O people! A mighty month has cast its protective shade to screen you. A blessed month, a month in which there is a night that is better than a thousand months! Allaah has made keeping fast therein an obligatory duty and the observance of night vigil therein a voluntary practice. If someone seeks to draw near to Allaah therein by setting just one example of good conduct, or performs just one religious obligation, that person will be exactly the same as someone who discharges seventy religious obligations during all the other months of the year. It is the month of patient endurance, the reward of which is paradise. It is the month of charitable sharing and it is the month in which the sustenance of the true believer is increased. So if someone provides a meal for a person who is keeping the fast, this will result in forgiveness for his sins, and in his emancipation from hell. The benefactor will also be granted a reward equivalent to that earned by the recipient of his generosity, without any reward being reduced from the former.” Some of those that were present said that not all of them had the capacity to provide a meal to a fasting person, to which Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) replied: “Allaah will grant this reward to anyone who gives some kind of nourishment to a fasting person, even if it is merely a dried date, a drink of water or a cup of diluted milk. It is a month, the beginning of which is a mercy, the middle of which is forgiveness, and the last part of which is a deliverance from the fire of hell. During the course of this month you must therefore cultivate four practices and repeat them frequently. Two of these are practices by which you will earn Allaahu Tha'alaa’s pleasure, while the other two are practices that you simply cannot afford to do without. As for the two practices that will earn you Almighty Allaah’s pleasure, they are testifying that there is no God except Allaah (La Ilaaha IllAllaah) and begging Him for forgiveness. As for the two that you simply cannot afford to do without, they are imploring Allaah to grant you the Garden of Paradise and taking refuge with Him from the Fire of Hell. Furthermore, if someone provides a satisfying meal in the course of this month for a fasting person, Allaahu Tha'alaa will grant the benefactor a drink from my Fountain, after which he will never feel thirsty again.”
Hazrath Abu Hurairah (Radhiyallaahu 'Anh) narrates that Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “As soon as Ramadhaan comes around, the gates of the Garden of Paradise are flung open, the gates of the Fire of Hell are shut and locked, and the devils (shayateen) are shackled and tied up tight.”
Once, the Beloved Rasool (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “If the servants of Allaah only knew what the month of Ramadhaan contains, those servants of His would dearly wish that the month of Ramadhaan could be a whole year!” On hearing this, someone asked Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) to tell them about this month, to which he responded, by saying: “The Garden of Paradise will surely be adorned for the sake of the month of Ramadhaan, from the beginning of the year through the whole of the intervening period. Then, as soon as the first night of the month of Ramadhaan has arrived, a wind will blow from beneath the Heavenly Throne (Arsh), causing the leaves of the trees of the Garden of Paradise to be set in a state of commotion. The brides of Paradise, those maidens with such lovely eyes, will regard this as a good omen, so they will say, “O Lord, grant us from among Your male servants in this month, such husbands that our eyes will be soothed by them, and their eyes will be soothed by us.” No servant of Allaahu Tha'alaa, who keeps the fast through the month of Ramadhaan, can possibly fail to be married to a wife from among the brides of Paradise, those maidens with such lovely eyes. The wedding will take place inside a pavilion made from a single hollowed pearl. This fits the description given by Allaahu Tha'alaa: “There are houris, (Virgins of Paradise) confined in tents.” [Surah 55, Verse 72]
Every woman amongst them will be dressed in seventy fine articles of clothing, no item being the same as any other. She will be given seventy kinds of perfume, none with the same fragrance as any other. She will also be given seventy throne-like raised couches, made from red rubies and studded with pearls. Upon each of these couches there will be seventy cushions, the lining of which will consist of thick silk brocade interwoven with gold, and over every cushion there will be seventy canopies. Every woman amongst them will have seventy thousand pageboys to attend to her own needs, as well as seventy thousand maidservants to attend to the needs of her husband. Each of these maidservants will carry a dish made of gold, containing some kind of cooked food, the last morsel of which will be found to have a delicious flavour that went unnoticed in the first bite. Her husband will be given special treats like this, as he reclines upon a couch made from a single red ruby, wearing two bracelets of gold inlaid with sapphires. Such will be the reward for one who has kept the fast through the month of Ramadhaan, quite apart from what he might have earned by performing charitable deeds!” SubhaanAllaah!
On another occasion Nabi-e-Kareem (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “The members of my Ummah will not be put to shame, so long as they observe the night vigil during the month of Ramadhaan.” On hearing this, someone asked what resulted in their being put to shame, to which Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) replied: “If someone is guilty, during the month of Ramadhaan, of violating a sacred ordinance, of committing an evil deed, of drinking intoxicating liquor, or of committing adultery or fornication, his fasting in Ramadhaan will not be accepted of him. Allaahu Tha'alaa and His angels and all those who dwell in the heavens will curse him, and the curse will remain in effect until the same point in time the following year. If he happens to die in the interval before the next Ramadhaan comes around, he will die without having even one good deed to his credit in the sight of Allaah.”
Therefore we must be very careful of committing any sin during this month, as there is a fear that we might be punished by not having our fasting accepted, and by being cursed by Allaahu Tha'alaa and His angels. Furthermore, the shayateen are chained during this month, so we have absolutely no excuse for committing any sin; if we do, we only have our own nafs to blame.
Rasoolullaahi (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) has mentioned many other excellences of the blessed month of Ramadhaan in the Ahadith, a few of which are quoted below:
- “If someone keeps the fast on the first day of the month of Ramadhaan, Allaah will forgive him every sin until the last day of Ramadhaan, and his fasting will be an expiation until the same point in time. For every day on which he keeps the fast, he will be granted a palatial mansion in Paradise, equipped with a thousand doors made of gold. From early in the morning, seventy thousand angels will beg for forgiveness on his behalf, and for every act of prostration he performs by night or by day, he will be granted a tree in Paradise, a tree in the shade of which a rider can travel for one hundred years without ever passing beyond it.”
- “On each and every night of the month of Ramadhaan, Allaahu Tha'alaa will say three times, “Does anyone have a request to make, so that I may grant his request? Is there anyone who wishes to repent, so that I may relent towards him and accept his repentance? Is there anyone wishing to seek forgiveness, so that I may forgive him?””
- “On each and every day of the month of Ramadhaan, by the time when the fast is duly broken, Allaahu Tha'alaa will have delivered a million of His servants from the Fire of Hell, even though all of them had incurred the penalty of damnation. Moreover, when the night of the Day of Congregation (Jumma) comes around, and on the Day of Jumma itself, it will be during every single hour that Allaahu Tha'alaa delivers a million of His servants from the Fire of Hell, even though all of them had incurred the penalty of damnation. As for what will happen on the last day of the month of Ramadhaan, on that day Allaahu Tha'alaa will deliver a number equal to the total of all those he has delivered from the Fire of Hell between the first of the month and the last.”
- “Throughout the entire month of Ramadhaan, Allaahu Tha'alaa will go on issuing this call, “My servants, men and women alike! Be of good cheer, be patient, and steadily persevere! I am about to grant you relief from your trouble and pain, and you will shortly attain My Mercy and My Generous Favour.”
- “If Allaahu Tha'alaa were ever to allow the heavens and the earth to speak, they would surely greet those who keep the fast of Ramadhaan, hailing them with glad tidings of the Garden of Paradise.”
- “As soon as the first night of the month of Ramadhaan has arrived, the All Majestic One will summon Ridwan, the keeper of the Garden of Paradise. The ever-obedient Ridwan will present himself at once, saying, “I wait intent upon Your service, time and time again, and upon aiding Your cause, time and time again!” Allaahu Tha'alaa will then tell him, “You must refurnish and redecorate My Garden of Paradise for the sake of those members of the community (Ummah) of Ahmad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) who are keeping the fast.”
Next, He will summon Malik, the keeper of the Fire of Hell, with the call, “O Malik!” The ever-obedient Malik will present himself at once, saying, “I wait intent upon Your service, time and time again, and upon aiding Your cause, time and time again!” Allaahu Tha'alaa will then tell him, “Shut the doors of the blazing Fire of Hell, so as to lock out those members of the community of Ahmad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) who are keeping the fast. Then do not reopen those doors to them until they have completed their month of fasting.”
At this point He will summon Jibra’eel, who will present himself at once, saying, “I wait intent upon Your service, time and time again, and upon aiding Your cause, time and time again!” Allaahu Tha'alaa will then tell him, “You must go down to the earth below, in order to shackle the defiant and rebellious devils, so that they cannot meddle with the community of Ahmad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam), and spoil their experience of fasting and breaking fast.””
- “The sleep of one who keeps the fast is an act of worshipful service, his silence is a declaration of the Glory of the Lord, his prayer of supplication is sure to be accepted, and the merit of every good deed he performs is sure to be multiplied.”
- “If someone keeps the fast and observes the night in vigil during Ramadhaan, as a matter of faith and in anticipation of Allaah’s favour in the hereafter, but with no expectation of worldly reward, he will be forgiven his earlier sins, as well as those he committed recently.”
- “For every good deed or practice performed by a human being belonging to my Ummah, the merit will be multiplied at least ten times, and up to seven hundred times in some cases. The sole exception is the fast, for Allaahu Tha'alaa has told us, “The fast belongs to Me, and I provide its recompense. When someone keeps the fast he is abstaining from his carnal desire, his eating and drinking, for My sake.” The fast is a suit of armour. Moreover, two occasions of joy are in store for the person who is keeping the fast; joy at the moment of breaking the fast and joy at the moment of meeting his Lord.”
SubhaanAllaah! Just by us being the Ummah of the Beloved Rasool (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam), Allaahu Tha'alaa has so much of Mercy on us. Furthermore, Allaahu Tha'alaa loves us so much that He just finds an excuse to shower His Infinite Mercy upon us. SubhaanAllaah! May we die in the slavery of Allaah and His Beloved Rasool (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam).
It is narrated by Hazrath Abul Barakaat (Radhiyallaahu 'Anh) that if someone, while performing voluntary worship at night during the month of Ramadhaan, recites the words addressed by Allaahu Tha'alaa to His Beloved Messenger (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) – “Undoubtedly, We have granted you a clear victory” [Surah 48, Verse 1] – that person will receive a guarantee of safekeeping for the whole of that year.
The Destruction Of Firaun
Allaahu Tha'alaa once ordered Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam), “O Moosa! Throw your walking stick to the ground.” The Prophet (Alaihis Salaam) did as he was told and was shocked to see his walking stick turn into a frightful snake. He then turned his back so as not to see it again, but Allaahu Tha'alaa consoled him by saying, “Don’t fear this. Grab the snake and it will return to its original form.” Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) again did as he was told, and as promised, the snake became his stick once more. Allaahu Tha'alaa then gave him the order to go to Firaun, to instil the fear of his Lord into him, tell him to forsake infidelity, and to show him this miracle should he request one.” [Surah 20, Verses 19-24]
Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) then approached Firaun and said to him, “Firaun! I am a Messenger of Allaah and a deliverer of the truth. You have to stop claiming to be Allaah and start worshipping the One, True Lord.” Firaun replied, “If you are a Messenger of Allaah, show me a sign.” Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) then threw his stick to the ground, and within moments, a towering, yellow snake stood on its tail a mile high above the ground, its one jaw placed on the earth while the other on the wall of the palace. When it turned to Firaun, he quickly jumped off his thrown and ran away (along with all of his other servants). The scene produced a stampede so violent that thousands died in the rush alone!
When he finally reached his home, Firaun cried in terror and said, “O Moosa (Alaihis Salaam)! By the One who made you a Messenger, take that snake away!” Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) accepted his request and turned his snake back into his walking stick, allowing Firaun to compose himself once more.[Tafseer Khazaainul Irfaan]
Firaun was troubled by the recent display of Hazrath Moosa’s (Alaihis Salaam) miracle and sought with his officials to find a way to regain prominence in the eyes of his people. His men advised that since Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) was displaying “magic” that he had learnt during his exile years, Firaun should gather the magicians of his own kingdom together and challenge the Prophet (Alaihis Salaam) in an open duel.
This suggestion was accepted by the king, and so after amassing thousands of magicians living under his rule, Firaun forwarded the challenge to Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam), who agreed to it without any hesitation.
On the prescribed day, thousands of magicians presented themselves before Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam), as the many followers of the king looked on, and threw their sticks and ropes to the ground, showing that they too had the power to change ordinary objects into snakes. But after every speck of earth for miles became covered with serpents, frightening the attendees, Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) threw his own staff to the ground and displayed once again the miracle bestowed upon him by Allaahu Tha'alaa.
Within moments, his snake overcame all the others, swallowing them individually (along with a flock of 300 camels) until it finally returned to the Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) and changed back into its original form.
Knowing that such a thing was not possible through magic or any human trickery, the magicians cried out, “We believe in the Lord of the worlds,” fell to the floor in prostration, and accepted Islam.[Surah 7, Verses 116-121; Tafseer Khazaainul Irfaan]
Firaun and his followers however remained strong in opposition against Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam), leading the Prophet to finally turn to Allaahu Tha'alaa saying, “O Allaah, Firaun and his men continue to be arrogant and stubborn against you. Punish them as a warning to my nation and to those who will come afterwards.” In response Allaahu Tha'alaa created a massive cloud over the city which covered its people in darkness and unleashed upon them a violent and continuous rainfall. So fierce was this downpour that it caused a neck-high flood and drowned anyone who tried to rest during the course of it. Yet look at the Power of Allaah! The houses of Firaun’s men were overcome with water while the houses of the Bani Isra’eel, which were connected to the other houses, remained unharmed.
After seven days the weakened nation of Firaun approached Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) and pleaded with him to seek an end to the storm, promising that they would believe in Allaah when it was over. The Prophet obliged, and after making Dua once again, both the rain and the cloud finally relented. [Surah 7, Verses 133-135; Tafseer Khazaainul Irfaan]
However, when the rain ceased and the greenery of the Egyptians was flourishing more than they had ever seen, Firaun’s people ignored their previous statement and said, “The rain is now a blessing for us, why should we believe in what Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) is saying?” Infuriated by their arrogance, Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) sought punishment from Almighty Allaah once again. So after a month of Mercy, Allaahu Tha'alaa dispatched a swarm of locusts to the city which chewed up the farms and doors of the king’s people, a punishment again befalling everyone except the Bani Isra’eel.
After being brought to their knees a second time, the Egyptians again approached Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) and pleaded with him to end the swarm, again promising to believe in his teachings. Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) obliged, but amazingly, once the locusts were no more, the people of Firaun again continued to worship him. Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) then made Dua for a third punishment to befall them, which came in the form of Qummal (Qummal is said to have been a small black insect according to commentators of the Holy Qur’an). These insects ate through the clothes of Firaun’s followers, bit their entire bodies and infested their food and grain. Sleep also became almost impossible, for they had to deal with the many bite marks on their bodies, including the ones on their eyebrows and eyelids.
Once again the Egyptians pleaded to Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) for assistance, and once again, after the Prophet assisted them and the punishment was removed, they refuted his message of Oneness. In reply to the request of Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam), Allaahu Tha'alaa now sent down a fourth punishment, this time in the form of frogs. So severe was this epidemic that if one tried to sit, his lap would be full of frogs. If he tried to speak they would jump into his mouth. Food and pots were swarming with them, stove-fires were put out by them, and no one even had the chance to lie down. Again the people turned to Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) in despair, and again went back on their promise to believe, once the punishment was removed. Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) nevertheless appealed to Alllah Ta’ala one last time to punish them in this world as a warning of what awaits the disbelievers in the hereafter.
As a result, Allaahu Tha'alaa turned the entire water supply of Egypt into blood. Whether it came from wells, streams, fountains or the River Nile, if anyone took any water for himself, he’d find that it wasn’t water anymore. However this again only affected the followers of Firaun and not the Bani Isra’eel. When the Egyptians tried extracting water from the Bani Isra’eel’s vessels, then too it would turn to blood. Thirst became so severe for the Egyptians that they even tried (unsuccessfully) to suck the moisture out of the trees. When they could take no more of it, they approached Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) a fifth time and requested him to bring an end to the punishment, promising to believe in Allaahu Tha'alaa. Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) made Dua one final time to grant the followers of Firaun a chance to redeem themselves. However as soon as the difficulty was over, they returned to disbelieving in him again! [Surah 7, Verses 133-135; Tafseer Khazaainul Irfaan]
Now Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) became despondent over the ways of Firaun and finally turned to Allaahu Tha'alaa saying, “O Rabb! Destroy their wealth and stiffen their hearts so that they will not accept You until they witness a severe punishment.” In response, Allaahu Tha'alaa ordered him to leave the city at night with the entire Bani Isra’eel. At nightfall, the entire Bani Isra’eel proceeded with Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) out of the kingdom of Firaun in a procession that numbered 600 000 individuals.
News of their departure soon reached Firaun and before dawn he too amassed an army roughly twice the size of the Bani Isra’eel and departed to apprehend his foster-son and followers. The army reached them by morning and when the Bani Isra’eel saw the forces behind them, coupled with a river blocking their path in front, they turned to Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) in desperation, and in reply Hazrath Moosa (Alaihis Salaam) struck the river with his staff and caused it to burst open, forming twelve paths before them that would allow the Bani Isra’eel to proceed to the other side.
The groups quickly crossed the river as the water stood motionless beside them. When Firaun’s army arrived, they too attempted to cross the river, only to find the water-walls breaking away and the army together with Firaun were immediately overcome and drowned by the Power of Almighty Allaah.[Surah 10, Verse 90; Tafseer Roohul Bayaan]
Hazrath Jibra’eel (Alaihis Salaam) once approached Firaun during his reign, seeking an answer to a written question he’d brought with him, which read as follows, “What would you do to a servant who lives off the sustenance of his king yet shows ingratitude to him, refutes his rights, and even goes as far as claiming to be the king himself?” Firaun wrote in reply, “For that ungrateful servant, I would have him drowned.”
As a result, when Firaun himself was drowning during the final moments of his life, Hazrath Jibra’eel (Alaihis Salaam) presented himself to him and displayed the verdict he’d been given by Firaun. Firaun recognized who Hazrath Jibra’eel (Alaihis Salaam) was before his death. [Tafseer Khazaainul Irfaan]
தவ்பா (பாவமன்னிப்பு)
முஃமீன்களே! நீங்கள் அல்லாஹ்விடம் கலப்பற்ற தவ்பா செய்யுங்கள் என்று அல்லாஹ் அருள்மறையில் அருள்கிறான் .
தவ்பத்துன் நஸூஹா என்பது மற்ற அடியாருக்கு கொடுக்க கடமைபட் டிருப்பின்அதை முறையாக கொடுத்துவிட்டு உள்ளம் பச்சதாபப்பட்டு மனமுருகி அல்லாஹ்விடம் மன்னிப்பு தேடுவதாகும் .
(நபியே!) பாவம் செய்து தங்கள் நப்ஸூகளின் பேரில் வரம்பு மீறியவர்களுக்கு , அல்லாஹ்வின் ரஹ்மத்தை விட்டும் நிராசையாகி விடவேண்டாம் என்று அடியார்களுக்கு சொல்லுங்கள் .
நிச்சயமாக அல்லாஹ் பாவங்கள் அனைத்தையும் மன்னிக்கிறான் . நிச்சயமாக அவனே மிக மன்னிப்பாளனும் கிருபையாளனுமாக இருகின்றான் என்று நீங்கள் சொல்லுங்கள் என்றும் அல்லாஹ் அனேக இடங்களில் தவ்பா செய்யும் படி ஏவியுள்ளான் .
மனிதன் மறதி , தவறு ஆகியவற்றால் பிணைக்கபட்டவன் . மனிதன் தவறு செய்வது இயற்க்கை ஆனால் அந்த தவறில் உழன்று கொண்டிருக்காமல் தன் தவறை நினைத்து மனம் வருந்தி அத்தவற்றினை விட்டும் திருந்தி நல்வழியை மேற்கொள்ளும்போது அவனுக்கு விருந்தும் கிடைக்கும் .
என்று கண்மணி நாயகம் ஸல்லல்லாஹு அலைஹி வஸல்லம் அவர்கள் நற்செய்தி கூறியுள்ளார்கள் .
எனவே தவ்பா செய்யும் சீதேவிகளுக்கு கிடைக்கும் சிறப்புக்களையும் , அந்தஸ்துக்களையும் , பாக்கியங்களையும் வரையறுத்து எழுத இயலாது .
அல்லாஹ் தனது ரஹ்மத்தை அருள் புரிந்த அடியாருக்கு ஒரு குறையுமில்லை .
வானம் , பூமி எங்கும் நிரம்பியிருக்கும் அல்லாஹ்வின் ரஹ்மத்தைக் கொண்டு நன்மாராயம் பெற்றவர்களாகவும் , தவ்பாவைக் கொண்டு சுபசோபனம் பெற்றவர்களாகவும் , நமது கண்மணி நாயகம் ஸல்லல்லாஹு அலைஹி வஸல்லம் அவர்கள் மீது ஸலவாத்தை மிகுதமாக ஓதுவதால் அவர்களின் ஷஃபாஅத்தை பெற்றவர்களாகவும் நம்மை அல்லாஹ் ஆக்கி அருள் புரிவானாக ஆமீன் ஆமீன் யாரப்பல் ஆலமீன்
தவ்பத்துன் நஸூஹா என்பது மற்ற அடியாருக்கு கொடுக்க கடமைபட் டிருப்பின்அதை முறையாக கொடுத்துவிட்டு உள்ளம் பச்சதாபப்பட்டு மனமுருகி அல்லாஹ்விடம் மன்னிப்பு தேடுவதாகும் .
- இதன் நிபந்தனைகள் :
- தான் செய்த பாவத்தை நினைப்பது
- அதை நினைத்து மனமுருகுதல்
- இனி அந்த பாவத்தை செய்யமாட்டேன் என்று கொள்ளல் ஆகியன.
(நபியே!) பாவம் செய்து தங்கள் நப்ஸூகளின் பேரில் வரம்பு மீறியவர்களுக்கு , அல்லாஹ்வின் ரஹ்மத்தை விட்டும் நிராசையாகி விடவேண்டாம் என்று அடியார்களுக்கு சொல்லுங்கள் .
நிச்சயமாக அல்லாஹ் பாவங்கள் அனைத்தையும் மன்னிக்கிறான் . நிச்சயமாக அவனே மிக மன்னிப்பாளனும் கிருபையாளனுமாக இருகின்றான் என்று நீங்கள் சொல்லுங்கள் என்றும் அல்லாஹ் அனேக இடங்களில் தவ்பா செய்யும் படி ஏவியுள்ளான் .
- தவ்பாவின் சிறப்பைப் பற்றி நாயகம் ஸல்லல்லாஹு அலைஹி வஸல்லம் அவர்கள் கூறியது :
மனிதன் மறதி , தவறு ஆகியவற்றால் பிணைக்கபட்டவன் . மனிதன் தவறு செய்வது இயற்க்கை ஆனால் அந்த தவறில் உழன்று கொண்டிருக்காமல் தன் தவறை நினைத்து மனம் வருந்தி அத்தவற்றினை விட்டும் திருந்தி நல்வழியை மேற்கொள்ளும்போது அவனுக்கு விருந்தும் கிடைக்கும் .
என்று கண்மணி நாயகம் ஸல்லல்லாஹு அலைஹி வஸல்லம் அவர்கள் நற்செய்தி கூறியுள்ளார்கள் .
- ஹழ்ரத் மூஸா அலைஹிஸ் ஸலாம் அவர்களின் காலத்தில் நடந்த ஒரு நிகழ்வு :
எனவே தவ்பா செய்யும் சீதேவிகளுக்கு கிடைக்கும் சிறப்புக்களையும் , அந்தஸ்துக்களையும் , பாக்கியங்களையும் வரையறுத்து எழுத இயலாது .
அல்லாஹ் தனது ரஹ்மத்தை அருள் புரிந்த அடியாருக்கு ஒரு குறையுமில்லை .
வானம் , பூமி எங்கும் நிரம்பியிருக்கும் அல்லாஹ்வின் ரஹ்மத்தைக் கொண்டு நன்மாராயம் பெற்றவர்களாகவும் , தவ்பாவைக் கொண்டு சுபசோபனம் பெற்றவர்களாகவும் , நமது கண்மணி நாயகம் ஸல்லல்லாஹு அலைஹி வஸல்லம் அவர்கள் மீது ஸலவாத்தை மிகுதமாக ஓதுவதால் அவர்களின் ஷஃபாஅத்தை பெற்றவர்களாகவும் நம்மை அல்லாஹ் ஆக்கி அருள் புரிவானாக ஆமீன் ஆமீன் யாரப்பல் ஆலமீன்
The hidden Knowledge(Ilm-e-Ghaib) of a Nabi-e-Kareem(Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam)
The word Nabi means ‘a person with information’ and comes from the root word Naba which means ‘information’. So if a Nabi is a person with information, what type of news or information does he give? Newspapers, radio, television, fax etc. all give news and information but they are not regarded as Nabi’s. If one says that a Nabi is he who informs of Haraam and Halaal and the laws of Shariah then every Aalim of Deen would qualify as a Nabi. However, it seems that the information and news of a Nabi is very special and indeed extraordinary. It can therefore be concluded that the news of this world supplied to its inhabitants is conveyed via radio, television, newspaper etc. Information researched and supplied from books is conveyed via an Aalim or scholar. But one who supplies the inhabitants of the earth with information of the heavens and the unseen world is called a Nabi.
A Nabi therefore supplies information and news of a Kingdom where no apparatus or instrument can reach or detect. Those unfortunate people who reject that a Nabi possesses Ilme-Ghayb (Knowledge of the Unseen) are in actual fact rejecting his rank of Nubuwwah (Prophethood). If someone says that a Nabi only possesses knowledge of the Shariah and that is all he was sent to inform the people about, then such fools cannot differentiate between a Nabi and an Aalim of Deen.
The knowledge of a Nabi is exceptionally vast because of his constant contact with his Creator. Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has said, “My eyes sleep but my heart never sleeps.” [Sahih Bukhari] This tells us that every moment of a Nabi’s life is in constant contact with his Sublime Creator. A Nabi is unlike ordinary human beings. For us sleep is half death but for a Nabi his sleep is the Wahi of Allah Ta’ala. When a Nabi sleeps he does not become unconscious but is fully conscious of Allah Ta’ala. His sleep cuts himself off from mankind and connects him with undivided concentration to his Creator. So the correct Islamic understanding of a Nabi is that chosen servant of Allah Ta’ala who is always conscious and Divinely informed of every creation in the universe. He is sent to mankind with guidance and acts as a Wasila between the Creator and the creation. He also has knowledge of Allah Ta’ala and all His creations in the skies and the earth. Hereunder a few Ahadith are presented to illustrate the Knowledge of the Unseen of our Beloved Muhammad Mustafa (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam).
One day Sayyiduna Jaabir (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) was sitting very sadly in the company of Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), who then asked, “Why are you so sad?” Sayyiduna Jaabir (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) replied, “Why should I not be sad when my father became Shaheed in the Battle of Uhud and left me with the burden of young sisters and debts.” Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) replied, “Should I inform you of something that would change your sadness to happiness?” He replied, “Certainly, O Prophet of Allah.” The Beloved Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) then said, “To this day, Almighty Allah has not spoken to anyone directly without a veil in between. Your father is the first deceased that spoke to Allah Ta’ala face to face. Allah Ta’ala said to your father, “Make a desire.” Your father replied, “O Gracious Lord, You have given me in abundance. What is left for me to desire?” Allah Ta’ala said, “You have to make a desire.” He replied, “Oh Allah, if it is your command then I desire to be sent back to the world in the same burning sand of the battlefield and be killed again in Your path. I desire to bath in blood and once more experience the happiness of sacrificing my head in your path. I have never enjoyed such pleasure in anything else.” Allah Ta’ala then said, “It is contrary to My Divine Rule to first test anyone and call him in My Presence, and thereafter to test him again.”” [Tahzeemal Kamaal, Vol. 8]
On another occasion a Muslim was stoned to death as punishment for his sin. Someone made a bad remark after his death. Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) heard this comment and stated, “You are speaking ill of him while he is happily bathing in the rivers of Jannah!”
It is reported in Mishkaat Shareef that one night Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) was with Hazrat Aisha Siddiqah (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anha). The night was calm and the stars lit up the sky. Hazrat Aisha Siddiqah (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anha) inquired from the Habeeb (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), “Ya Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), is there any fortunate person whose good deeds are equivalent to the number of stars in the sky?”
Imagine how intricate this question is because there are seven skies and all of them have their own stars. Some are visible to the naked eye while others are so tiny that it is impossible to be seen even with the most powerful telescope. There are some stars that are constantly hidden due to the brightness of the sun. The calculation of the number of stars is impossible and no human being with the most advanced technology can even vaguely calculate it. This is one factor.
The other impossible factor is to know the exact amount of good deeds of all the believers on this earth. The good deeds of the believers will differ till Qiyaamah and may be performed in public, in private, in the heart, in caves etc. It is obvious that only that person can answer such a question, who, firstly knows and recognizes every single believer in the world until Qiyaamah, and secondly fully understands the extent of his or her every single deed be it exposed or hidden.
From this question we understand that Ummul Mo’mineen Hazrat Aisha Siddiqah (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anha) believed that Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) possessed Ilme-Ghayb, otherwise she would not have asked such an intricate question which is humanly impossible to answer. A’la Hazrat Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh), referring to Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), writes in one of his Naaths about the Aqeedah of Sayyidah Aisha Siddiqah (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anha):
Sare Arsh Par He Theri Guzar Dile Farsh Par He Theri Nazar
Malakooth-o-Mulke Me Koyi Shai Nahi Wo Jo Thuj Pe ‘Aya Nahi
Your travel is on the horizons of the Arsh, your vision is in the heart of the earth
There is no atom in the universe that is hidden from you
Now let us look at the reply of our most unique and beloved Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). He did not say, “How do you expect me to know the number of stars in the sky”, or “I am just like you and do not possess such knowledge” or “Let me wait for Hazrat Jibra’eel (Alaihis Salaam), I will ask him when he comes”. He did not even ask for time to ponder over the question, but rather instantly replied, “Yes, there is one person whose good deeds are equivalent to the number of stars in the skies and that is Umar.” His beloved wife then asked, “And then what is the situation of the deeds of my father Abu Bakr?” Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) then replied, “His one good deed of service to me on the night of Hijra is more excellent than all the virtues of Umar.” Subhaanallah! Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) even knew whose deeds equalled the number of stars in the sky and whose deeds exceeded it. This is an example of the extent of the amazing knowledge of unseen of Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam).
It is reported by Hazrat Anas ibn Maalik (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) that one day before the Battle of Badr Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) in the battlefield placed his sacred hand on various places on the ground and said, “This will be the spot so and so Kaafir will die, this is the spot so and so Kaafir will die.” The narrator of this Hadith was present in this battle and says that after the battle not a single Kaafir mentioned by name moved even an inch away from the spot Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) marked on the ground, that is, every single one was found lying dead on the exact spot demarcated. [Sahih Muslim, Musnad Imam Ahmad]
It is narrated by Hazrat Abdullah ibn Abbas (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) that the glorious Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) passed by two graves where punishment was being given and said, “These two persons are being punished and the cause of their punishment is not the result of a very major reason. One of them did not protect himself from the splashes of urine and the other used to engage in backbiting.” [Sahih Bukhari]
From the above Hadith it is clear that no sand can become a barrier in front of the vision of the exalted Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). Although two persons are below tons of sand, he can see the punishment from above the ground. Also, the Habeeb (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) is fully aware of every action of everyone. One person did not protect himself from the splashes of urine and the other used to backbite. Both these acts were not done in the presence of Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) but he was fully aware of them. This is the unique status of the knowledge of our Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam).
It is narrated that Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) once ascended onto the Mimbar and spoke about Qiyaamah. He said, “Before Qiyaamah many big events will take place.” He then said, “Anyone of you may ask me about anything you desire. I swear by Allah that as long as I am on this Mimbar, I will answer any questions you ask me.” One person stood up and asked, “Where would my final abode be?” Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) replied, “In the fire of hell.” Then Hazrat Abdullah ibn Huzafa (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) stood up and asked, “Who is my father?” The Beloved Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) replied, “Your father is Huzafa.” Then he repeatedly said, “Ask me, ask me.” [Sahih Bukhari, Tafseer Khaazin]
The Munafiqeen say that no one besides Allah Ta’ala knows the destiny of a person. How is it that His Habeeb (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) knows who is going to Jannah or Jahannam, or the spot in which someone is going to die? Salutations upon the Beloved Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), who sees everything in this Dunya as well as in the Aakhirah (Hereafter).
[Compiled from The True Concept of Imaan by Hazrat Allama Mufti Ahmad Yaar Khan Qadri Naeemi Rahmatullah Alaih]
May Allah Ta’ala grant us the Taufeeq to accept the Ilme-Ghayb of our Beloved Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) and the Hidaayah to stay away from the enemies who disrespect His Noble Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), Ameen.
A Nabi therefore supplies information and news of a Kingdom where no apparatus or instrument can reach or detect. Those unfortunate people who reject that a Nabi possesses Ilme-Ghayb (Knowledge of the Unseen) are in actual fact rejecting his rank of Nubuwwah (Prophethood). If someone says that a Nabi only possesses knowledge of the Shariah and that is all he was sent to inform the people about, then such fools cannot differentiate between a Nabi and an Aalim of Deen.
The knowledge of a Nabi is exceptionally vast because of his constant contact with his Creator. Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has said, “My eyes sleep but my heart never sleeps.” [Sahih Bukhari] This tells us that every moment of a Nabi’s life is in constant contact with his Sublime Creator. A Nabi is unlike ordinary human beings. For us sleep is half death but for a Nabi his sleep is the Wahi of Allah Ta’ala. When a Nabi sleeps he does not become unconscious but is fully conscious of Allah Ta’ala. His sleep cuts himself off from mankind and connects him with undivided concentration to his Creator. So the correct Islamic understanding of a Nabi is that chosen servant of Allah Ta’ala who is always conscious and Divinely informed of every creation in the universe. He is sent to mankind with guidance and acts as a Wasila between the Creator and the creation. He also has knowledge of Allah Ta’ala and all His creations in the skies and the earth. Hereunder a few Ahadith are presented to illustrate the Knowledge of the Unseen of our Beloved Muhammad Mustafa (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam).
One day Sayyiduna Jaabir (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) was sitting very sadly in the company of Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), who then asked, “Why are you so sad?” Sayyiduna Jaabir (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) replied, “Why should I not be sad when my father became Shaheed in the Battle of Uhud and left me with the burden of young sisters and debts.” Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) replied, “Should I inform you of something that would change your sadness to happiness?” He replied, “Certainly, O Prophet of Allah.” The Beloved Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) then said, “To this day, Almighty Allah has not spoken to anyone directly without a veil in between. Your father is the first deceased that spoke to Allah Ta’ala face to face. Allah Ta’ala said to your father, “Make a desire.” Your father replied, “O Gracious Lord, You have given me in abundance. What is left for me to desire?” Allah Ta’ala said, “You have to make a desire.” He replied, “Oh Allah, if it is your command then I desire to be sent back to the world in the same burning sand of the battlefield and be killed again in Your path. I desire to bath in blood and once more experience the happiness of sacrificing my head in your path. I have never enjoyed such pleasure in anything else.” Allah Ta’ala then said, “It is contrary to My Divine Rule to first test anyone and call him in My Presence, and thereafter to test him again.”” [Tahzeemal Kamaal, Vol. 8]
On another occasion a Muslim was stoned to death as punishment for his sin. Someone made a bad remark after his death. Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) heard this comment and stated, “You are speaking ill of him while he is happily bathing in the rivers of Jannah!”
It is reported in Mishkaat Shareef that one night Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) was with Hazrat Aisha Siddiqah (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anha). The night was calm and the stars lit up the sky. Hazrat Aisha Siddiqah (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anha) inquired from the Habeeb (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), “Ya Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), is there any fortunate person whose good deeds are equivalent to the number of stars in the sky?”
Imagine how intricate this question is because there are seven skies and all of them have their own stars. Some are visible to the naked eye while others are so tiny that it is impossible to be seen even with the most powerful telescope. There are some stars that are constantly hidden due to the brightness of the sun. The calculation of the number of stars is impossible and no human being with the most advanced technology can even vaguely calculate it. This is one factor.
The other impossible factor is to know the exact amount of good deeds of all the believers on this earth. The good deeds of the believers will differ till Qiyaamah and may be performed in public, in private, in the heart, in caves etc. It is obvious that only that person can answer such a question, who, firstly knows and recognizes every single believer in the world until Qiyaamah, and secondly fully understands the extent of his or her every single deed be it exposed or hidden.
From this question we understand that Ummul Mo’mineen Hazrat Aisha Siddiqah (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anha) believed that Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) possessed Ilme-Ghayb, otherwise she would not have asked such an intricate question which is humanly impossible to answer. A’la Hazrat Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh), referring to Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), writes in one of his Naaths about the Aqeedah of Sayyidah Aisha Siddiqah (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anha):
Sare Arsh Par He Theri Guzar Dile Farsh Par He Theri Nazar
Malakooth-o-Mulke Me Koyi Shai Nahi Wo Jo Thuj Pe ‘Aya Nahi
Your travel is on the horizons of the Arsh, your vision is in the heart of the earth
There is no atom in the universe that is hidden from you
Now let us look at the reply of our most unique and beloved Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). He did not say, “How do you expect me to know the number of stars in the sky”, or “I am just like you and do not possess such knowledge” or “Let me wait for Hazrat Jibra’eel (Alaihis Salaam), I will ask him when he comes”. He did not even ask for time to ponder over the question, but rather instantly replied, “Yes, there is one person whose good deeds are equivalent to the number of stars in the skies and that is Umar.” His beloved wife then asked, “And then what is the situation of the deeds of my father Abu Bakr?” Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) then replied, “His one good deed of service to me on the night of Hijra is more excellent than all the virtues of Umar.” Subhaanallah! Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) even knew whose deeds equalled the number of stars in the sky and whose deeds exceeded it. This is an example of the extent of the amazing knowledge of unseen of Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam).
It is reported by Hazrat Anas ibn Maalik (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) that one day before the Battle of Badr Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) in the battlefield placed his sacred hand on various places on the ground and said, “This will be the spot so and so Kaafir will die, this is the spot so and so Kaafir will die.” The narrator of this Hadith was present in this battle and says that after the battle not a single Kaafir mentioned by name moved even an inch away from the spot Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) marked on the ground, that is, every single one was found lying dead on the exact spot demarcated. [Sahih Muslim, Musnad Imam Ahmad]
It is narrated by Hazrat Abdullah ibn Abbas (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) that the glorious Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) passed by two graves where punishment was being given and said, “These two persons are being punished and the cause of their punishment is not the result of a very major reason. One of them did not protect himself from the splashes of urine and the other used to engage in backbiting.” [Sahih Bukhari]
From the above Hadith it is clear that no sand can become a barrier in front of the vision of the exalted Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). Although two persons are below tons of sand, he can see the punishment from above the ground. Also, the Habeeb (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) is fully aware of every action of everyone. One person did not protect himself from the splashes of urine and the other used to backbite. Both these acts were not done in the presence of Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) but he was fully aware of them. This is the unique status of the knowledge of our Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam).
It is narrated that Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) once ascended onto the Mimbar and spoke about Qiyaamah. He said, “Before Qiyaamah many big events will take place.” He then said, “Anyone of you may ask me about anything you desire. I swear by Allah that as long as I am on this Mimbar, I will answer any questions you ask me.” One person stood up and asked, “Where would my final abode be?” Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) replied, “In the fire of hell.” Then Hazrat Abdullah ibn Huzafa (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) stood up and asked, “Who is my father?” The Beloved Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) replied, “Your father is Huzafa.” Then he repeatedly said, “Ask me, ask me.” [Sahih Bukhari, Tafseer Khaazin]
The Munafiqeen say that no one besides Allah Ta’ala knows the destiny of a person. How is it that His Habeeb (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) knows who is going to Jannah or Jahannam, or the spot in which someone is going to die? Salutations upon the Beloved Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), who sees everything in this Dunya as well as in the Aakhirah (Hereafter).
[Compiled from The True Concept of Imaan by Hazrat Allama Mufti Ahmad Yaar Khan Qadri Naeemi Rahmatullah Alaih]
May Allah Ta’ala grant us the Taufeeq to accept the Ilme-Ghayb of our Beloved Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) and the Hidaayah to stay away from the enemies who disrespect His Noble Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), Ameen.
Alif is for Allaah
A' is for Allaah, nothing but Allaah
Ba is the beginning of Bismillaah
Ta is for Taqwa, bewaring of Allaah
and Tha is for Thawab, a reward
Ja is for Janna, the Garden of Paradise
Ha is for Hajj, the blessed pilgrimage
Kha is for Khaatem, the seal of the prophethood given to the Prophet, Muhammad Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam
Da is for Deen, Al-Islam, religion with Allaah since time began
Dha is for dhikr, remembering Allaah
and Ra is for the month of Ramadhaan, ohh Ramadhaan
Za is for Zakath to pure our greed, when we give our money to those in need
Sa is for Salamu Alaikkum, peace be with you Wa'alaikkumus Salaam
Sha is for shams, the shining sun, which Allaah placed for everyone
and Sua is for salat, for when we pray facing him, everyday, facing him, till we meet our lord
Allaah there's only one God and Muhammad is His Messenger
Allaah, La Ilaha Illa'Allaah
Dua is for duha, the morning light, the sun has turned from red to white
Tua is for tareeq, the path to walk upon
and Dhua is for dhil, a shadow
and Aa is for ilm, the thing to know, to make our knowledge grow, in Islam
Gha is for ghaib, a world unseen and that we know is not a dream
Fa is for, the Opening, Al-Fathihaa
and Qua for the Qur'an, the book of God
and Ka is for kalima, a word we're taught to teach us what is good and what is not
and La is for the beginning of La Ilaha Illa'Allaah
Ma is for the Messenger, Muhammad-ur-Rasoolullaah
La Ilaha Illa'Allaah, Muhammad-ur-Rasoolullaah
Allaah, there's only one God and Muhammad is His Messenger
Allaah, la Ilaha Illa'Allaah
Na is for nawm, the sleep God gave to give us rest after the day
Ha is for the Hijra, the journey that, the Prophet made
and Wa for wudu before we pray to help us wash our sins away
and Ya for Yawm-mid-Deen
Allaah, there's only one God and Muhammad is His Messenger
Allaah, La Ilaha Illa'Allaah
Allaah, there's only one God and Jesus was His Messenger.
Allaah, La Ilaha Illa'Allaah
Allaah, there's only one God and Moses was His Messenger.
Allaah, La Ilaha Illa'Allaah
Allaah, there's only one God and Abraham was His Messenger.
Allaah, La Ilaha Illa'Allaah
Allaah, there's only one God and Noah was His Messenger.
Allaah, La Ilaha Illa'Allaah
Allaah, there's only one God and He created Adam,
and we are the children of Adam.
Allaah, La Ilaha Illa'Allaah
Allaah, there's only one God and Muhammad is His Messenger.
Allaah, La Ilaha Illa'Allaah
The Significance of Shab-e-Bara'at/Lailatul Bara'at (the Night of Salvation)
There are many merits of Shabaan, especially the 15th of Shabaan, which is known as Shab-e-Bara'at or Lailatul Bara'at, meaning the Night of Absolution. Insha Allah hereunder we will discuss the auspiciousness of Shab-e-Bara'at and also a few things that should be read on this night.
Just to highlight the significance of Shabaan, Hazrat Anas ibn Malik (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) reports that once when Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) was asked about the most meritorious fasting, he replied, “Fasting in Shabaan in honour of Ramadaan.” Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) would fast for the whole month of Shabaan and has stated that Shabaan is his month.
Shab-e-Bara'at is a vessel for Mercy, Blessing, Benefit, Pardon and Forgiveness that descends upon the people of the earth. On this great night, Allah Ta’ala descends to the first heaven and proclaims, “Is there anyone who seeks forgiveness so that I may forgive him? Is there anyone who seeks sustenance so that I may grant him sustenance? Is there anyone who seeks freedom from his problems so that I may remove his problems?” This announcement continues until the break of dawn.
Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has said, “On the night of the middle of Shabaan, Allah Ta’ala descends to the heaven of this lower world and forgives every Muslim, except a mushrik (one who associates partners with Allah Ta’ala), the bearer of malice, the breaker of family ties, the adulterer, the miser, the one who is disobedient to his parents and the one who consumes alcohol. He (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has also stated that during this night Allah Ta’ala opens 300 doors of Mercy unto his servants and that the slaves of Allah Ta’ala are emancipated from the fire of hell, as numerous as the hairs on the flocks of the tribe of Bani Kalb.
Allah Ta’ala states in the Holy Qur’an, “Therein all matters of wisdom are sorted out for Decree.” [Surah 44, Verse 4]. This Aayat refers to Shab-e-Bara'at and it is stated in Tafseer Noorul Irfaan that on this great night, the entire year’s programme of sustenance, death, life, honour and disgrace, in short every affair of man is listed from the Divine Tablet and handed over to the angels of each area on the earth in the form of a book. For example the Angel of Death is given a list of the names of those who would be dying in the coming year.
Hazrat Aisha Siddiqa (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anha) reports that once on Shab-e-Bara'at Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) went into prostration for a long time and she watched him until she thought that Allah Ta’ala had taken His Messenger (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) from this world. After a long time had elapsed, she got close enough to touch the soles of his feet. He stirred, and she heard him say in his prostration, “I take refuge with Your pardon from Your punishment. I take refuge with Your approval from Your displeasure. I take refuge in You from You. Glory be to You. I cannot fully praise You, as You have praised Yourself.” After this incident Hazrat Aisha Siddiqa (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anha) asked Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), “O Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), tonight I have heard you utter something during your prostration that I never heard you mention before.” Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) then asked, “Have you learnt it?” When she said yes, he replied, “Study those words and teach them, for Hazrat Jibra’eel (Alaihis Salaam) instructed me to repeat them during the prostration.”
This Dua is given below and we must try to recite it as much as possible Insha Allah, according to the Sunnah of the Beloved Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam).
Transliteration: (Allahumma) A’oozu bi Afwika Min Iqaabika Wa A’oozu Biradaaka Min Sakhatika Wa A’oozu Bika Minka Jalla Wajhuka Laa Uhsi Sanaa’an Alayka Anta Kama Asnaita Ala Nafsik.
Hereunder are some other Ibaadaat that may be performed during this night:
- After Asr Salaah the following should be recited 70 times:
Astagh Firullaha Rabbi Min Kulli Zam Bin Wa A’tubu Elaih
- Just before sunset the following should be recited 40 times:
Laa Hawla Wala Quwata Illa Billa Hil Aleeyil Azeem
- After Maghrib Salaah 6 rakaats of Nafl Salaah should be read as three sets of two rakaats. Before the first 2 rakaats, make Dua to receive a long life through the barkat of those 2 rakaats. For the second set make Dua to be saved from all types of problems and for the third set make Dua for Allah Ta’ala not to make you needy of anyone besides Him. After each set of rakaats, recite Surah Yaseen once, Surah Ikhlaas 21 times and thereafter Dua-e-Nisfe Shabaan.
- One should also try to fast on the 15th of Shabaan as this is the Sunnah of Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). It is also better to fast both on the 14th and 15th (if possible) so that one would enter the blessed night of Shab-e-Bara'at in a state of fasting.
- One should also try to visit the Qabarastan (graveyard) to make Dua of Maghfirat (Forgiveness) for the deceased, as this is the Sunnah of our beloved Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam).
This is an opportunity that everyone needs to take advantage of. We do not know if our names will be written on the list given to the Angel of Death this year, and whether we will have the opportunity of experiencing this blessed night again. We must make Tauba (repent) for our sins and ask for Allah Ta’ala’s Forgiveness. We are such wretched sinners but the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala is boundless. No matter how sinful we are, it is never too late to fall down in prostration before our Lord and to cry in shame for our insolent behaviour in disobeying His commands. Allah Ta’ala’s Mercy overcomes His anger therefore we should not lose hope in His Mercy, no matter how wretched we might be. Allah Ta’ala just wants an excuse to forgive us but it is we who are too lazy to humble ourselves before Him to ask for His Mercy.
On this night when Allah Ta’ala calls out, “Who is there who seeks forgiveness so that I may forgive Him?” the whole night, why can’t we be the ones to respond to that call by crying in the Court of Allah Ta’ala and saying, “Ya Allah, this wretched sinner seeks Your forgiveness. I am present in Your Court and I humble myself in shame before You. Through the Sadaqah and Wasilah of Your Beloved Messenger, Muhammad Mustafa (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) please forgive me.” Nothing is stopping us besides our nafs and Shaitaan. Remember that Allah Ta’ala loves those who cry in His Court out of shame and repent for their sins, so do not let this blessed night go by in vain.
May Allah Ta’ala grant us the Taufeeq to take full advantage of the blessings of Shab-e-Bara'at, to repent from our sins and to make as much Ibaadat as possible on this blessed night, Ameen.
Understanding Tawheed and Shirk
The Being of the Almighty Allaah is indeed One. It is only those who are ignorant and persist on being ignorant who say that we commit Shirk when we talk about certain qualities which the servants of Allaah possess.
The meaning of Tawheed is to believe that there is no partner to Allaah in His Being and in His Attributes. In other words, how Almighty Allaah is, we do not believe that there is another being like Him. If any person believes on the contrary, then his belief would constitute Shirk. We should remember that the attributes of Allaah, among others, include the act of Listening, Seeing and Possessing Knowledge.
After we have understood the meaning of Tawheed, the natural question that arises is, if knowledge, which is one of the Attributes of Allaah, is ascribed for another individual, will this really mean that we are guilty of Shirk? We know that Listening and Seeing are also among the Attributes of Allaah. If we prove these very attributes for another individual, will we be guilty of Shirk? In the very same manner, the Attributes of Living is also among the Attributes of Allaah. If we ascribe this attribute for another individual will we again be guilty of Shirk?
Dear Muslims, do not be deceived by those who hope to mislead you. You should remember that indeed Almighty Allaah possesses the Attribute of “Living”, yet He has, through His Mercy, bestowed upon His creation this very quality. The attribute of living though, which we relate to ourselves, is not the same Attribute of Living as we relate to Allaah. The difference is that His Attribute of Living is Eternal and non-bestowed, while the attribute of living which we possess is one which we have been bestowed with by Allaah and is temporary and non-eternal.
If this principle and law is applied to all qualities and attributes, then the question of Shirk will never arise. It is simple, yet, as we have mentioned earlier, those so-called Muslims whose sole aim is to deprive Islam of its peace and harmony, intentionally make it difficult so that the simple-minded Muslims become confused and misguided.
Has Almighty Allaah given man power and authority? The answer is quite simple. If man has not been given power and authority, then what indeed is the difference between him and stone? We know that Almighty Allaah possesses Power and Authority. We also know that He has created these attributes within man. You may ask, if both possess power and authority, then what is the difference? There is no doubt that Almighty Allaah possesses Power and Authority, but, He is not subservient to anyone, neither have these Attributes been given to Him by anyone. His servant on the other hand, possesses these attributes of power and authority, yet, he is still subservient to the Almighty Allaah, and these attributes are not his, rather they have been bestowed upon him by the Almighty Allaah.
This very same principle as explained above, can be applicable to the question of Knowledge, Seeing, Listening, and other Attributes. Almighty Allaah possesses these Attributes and so does the slave. No one has given these Qualities to Allaah, whilst the slave, on the other hand, has been accorded these attributes by Almighty Allaah. This is, in fact, one of the clear differences between Almighty Allaah and His slave.
We understand that if Almighty Allaah has bestowed an attribute upon the slave, then this belief cannot be labelled as Shirk. For example, if we relate the quality of “hearing” to a slave, we must therefore believe that the Grace of Allaah has bestowed this attribute of “hearing” upon the slave, then this belief cannot be termed Shirk.
At this point an important question arises. Applying the above principle, why is it that we condemn the idol worshipers who also believe that their idols have been given these amazing powers by Allaah. Are they not using the very same principle, which we are applying?
The answer is simple. When the idol worshipers believed that their idols were a creation of Allaah, they also should have believed that the slave is indebtedly in bondage to the Creator. Without the Creator, the creation cannot come into being. They also should have believed and accepted that, as in life or in death, the slave is in need of the Creator. But, they refused to believe and accept this principle, that is, Allaah’s Authority.
They began to believe that although their idols were a creation, Almighty Allaah had given the idols Divinity and total “God-head”. They believed that after creating their idols, there was now no need for submission towards Almighty Allaah (Allaah forbid!) because their idols could do whatever they wished, even if Almighty Allaah had not commanded it to do a certain thing. The idol worshipers could not understand this very simple principle, that is, that the creation can never be independent of Almighty Allaah.
Indeed, Almighty Allaah through His Mercy, may bestow upon His slave whatever powers He wishes, yet He would not bestow Divinity, which is Permanent and Independent, the attributes given to His slave are not permanent or even independent. The idol worshipers believed that because of the tremendous worship performed by their idols, “Laat” and “Manaat”, Almighty Allaah set them free to do as they pleased. Based on this belief, the idol worshipers believed that their idols have been given Divinity and God-head. This is another difference between the Muslim and the idol worshiper. The Muslim believes that the servant of Allaah will always remain a servant and can never become one possessing God-head and Divinity.
Almighty Allaah states in the Holy Qur’an, “Who is it that would intercede with Him, except with His permission.” [Surah 2, Verse 255]
From this Qur’anic injunction, an important fact becomes apparent to us. Almighty Allaah is quite clearly stating to us that no one will be able to intercede except those to whom He has given permission. It is also a warning to the idol worshipers, in that they should not believe in and hold in high esteem their idols considering that their idols have never been given permission to intercede for their worshipers. This clearly proves that their idols are totally useless.
The beloved slaves of Allaah, on the other hand, have been given permission to intercede. The first to intercede will be our Beloved Master Muhammad Mustafa (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) as proven by many authentic sources. Thereafter, the other Prophets, Martyrs, Saints, etc.
The Holy Qur’an is evidence of Hazrat Eesa (Alaihis Salaam) explaining to his nation some of his amazing miracles. This serves as a reminder to all, of the power and authority bestowed by Allaah upon His beloved servants. The Holy Qur’an states, “I heal those who are born blind and the leper and I make the dead alive by the command of Allaah.” [Surah 3, Verse 49] We know that to perform amazing duties as explained by Hazrat Eesa (Alaihis Salaam) is indeed the Grace of the Almighty Allaah, yet this great Prophet is actually stating that he can perform them. Is he guilty (Allaah forbid!) of committing Shirk? No, for he has clearly proven by one verse the difference between Shirk and Tawheed.
When he said, “these duties are performed through the command of Allaah”, immediately, the question of Shirk is dismissed and the entire concept becomes one of Tawheed. Keeping this in mind, when Muslims state that Prophets and Saints can perform miracles and do so with the Permission of Allaah, how can any sensible person call this action as being Shirk? This belief is purely Tawheed.
There is a Hadith-e-Qudsi in which Almighty Allaah has stated, “He who has caused enmity with My Wali (Friend), I give him declaration of war. Among those acts through which My slave achieves My closeness, the most beloved are the Fardh (Compulsory) acts. My slave also achieves My closeness through the Nafl (Optional) deeds, till I make him into My beloved. When he becomes My beloved, I become his ears through which he listens, his eyes through which he sees, his hands by which he holds, his feet by which he walks. When he pleads to Me for anything I definitely bestow it on him. When he seeks refuge in Me from any bad deed, then I definitely save him from it.” [Sahih Bukhari]
In the following verse, Almighty Allaah is explaining how we can achieve His closeness. He states, “O Beloved say you, “O people! If you love Allaah, then follow me, Allaah will love you.”” [Surah 3, Verse 31] In other words, only after we have adopted piety and abstinence in following the Holy Prophet (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) will we have any chance of becoming a beloved.
In the same manner, if the slave continuously adopts good deeds, then he indeed reaches that stage of which Almighty Allaah states that He becomes the slaves eye and ear. When the Magnificent Noor (Light) of Allaah becomes the eye of the slave, then the slave perceives things near and distant. When this Light becomes the hand of the slave, then he, the slave, is then able to dispense with things easy and difficult, near and far. [Tafseer Kabeer]
We also come to realize from this explanation that the beloved slaves of Allaah have been given the power to help and assist. Once we have proved this, how can we call it Shirk if we implore them for assistance? It can never be Shirk, for although the slave and the Creator can help and assist, remember that the Creator possesses this Attribute without it being given to Him by anyone. The slave, on the other hand, possesses these attributes after Almighty Allaah has given it to him, and we still believe that the slave is the servant of Allaah and is still subservient to Him.
It seems to be the habit of so-called “believers” to relate verses meant for the Kufaar towards Muslims, and to say that we are committing Shirk. Perhaps they are merely following the habit of their forefathers. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, that Hazrath Abdullaah Ibnu Umar (Radhiyallaahu Anhu) used to despise the Khaariji sect the most. He considered them the worst of creation. He use to say that “these people have made it a practice of theirs, that whatever verse has been revealed against the idol worshippers, they relate these verses towards the Muslims.”
May Allaahu Tha’alaa grant us the true understanding of Islam and save us from such corrupt people who try to mislead us and take our Eemaan away from us, Aameen.
A’la Hazrat Imam Ahle Sunnat Imam Ahmad Raza Khan(Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh)'s Love for Rasoolullahi(Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam)
A’la Hazrat Imam Ahle Sunnat Ash Shah Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) beautified the hearts of the Muslims with the love of Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) through his academic wonders, sweet speeches and most beautiful Naaths. He had such intense love for our Beloved Master Muhammad Mustafa (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) that he never tolerated even the slightest disrespect towards the Beloved Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam).
- FIRST HAJJ:
Imagine the condition of that Aashiq-e-Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) who is blessed with the opportunity of visiting the Rauza-e-Aqdas of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) and placing his eyes on the doorstep of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). This opportunity of performing his first Hajj and Ziyaarah was granted to A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) on the 26th of Shawwal 1295 A.H. (1876). He was 20 years of age at the time.
One day, after completing his Hajj, he went to perform his Maghrib Salaah before the Maqaam-e-Ibrahim. Having completed his Salaah, the Imam of the Shafi’i order of Makkatul Mukarramah, Allamah Hussain bin Saleh Kamaal (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh), approached him. He clutched A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) by his hand and led him to his house. The great Imam then placed his hand on the blessed forehead of A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) and said, “Verily, I am observing the Noor of Almighty Allah on this forehead.” He began addressing A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) by the title of ‘Zia’uddeen’ (The Light or Splendour of Deen).
It was also during this historical visit that Sayyiduna A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) informed the Ulama-e-Haramain Sharifain concerning the blasphemous and corrupt beliefs of the Ulama-e-Deoband. Having studied A’la Hazrat’s (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) books, “Aljaamu Sunnah Li Ahli Fitna” and “Al Mu’tamadul Mustanad”, which he presented to them, they also gave their verdicts on those who committed blasphemy and those who had written words of disrespect against Almighty Allah and His Beloved Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). The verdicts of the Ulama of Makkatul Mukarramah and Madinatul Munawwarah were compiled to form the famous, “Husaamul Haramain.”
- SECOND HAJJ:
A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) performed his second Hajj in 1323 A.H. (1905) at the age of 49. On the 25th of Zil-Hajj, Sayyiduna A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) once again had the opportunity of meeting the great Imam, Shaikh Saleh Kamaal (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh). It was on this occasion that Allamah Shaikh Saleh Kamaal (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) presented A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) with five questions pertaining to I’lm-e-Ghaib (Knowledge of the Unseen). These questions were posed on behalf of the Wahaabi Ulama of Makkatul Mukarramah. A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) had to answer these five questions in two days.
In so happened that on the following day, A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) contracted a heavy fever. In spite of his illness, he managed to answer all the questions relating to I’lm-e-Ghaib. In fact, A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) presented such a detailed answer to the question of I’lm-e-Ghaib that it turned out to be a complete book on its own. He named this book, “Al Daulatul Makkiyah Bil Maadatil Ghaibiya.” The Learned Ulama of Haramain Sharifain were totally astounded when A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) presented this book to them on time. He completed this book of approximately 400 pages in only 8 hours which was also in the pure Arabic language. Subhaanallah!
- IN THE PRESENCE OF RASOOLULLAH (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam):
It was during A’la Hazrat’s (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) second visit to the Haramain Sharifain that his aspiration to see the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) became very great. Continuously reciting Durood Shareef with great veneration and humbleness in front of the Rauza-e-Shareef of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), he yearned to see the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). On the first night his desire was not fulfilled and he became drowned in sadness.
It was during the second night of his visit to the doorstep of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) that he was blessed with the opportunity of physically seeing the blessed personality of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). On that night, A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh), in a state of total submission, lifted his pen and began writing a Naath in the love of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). The first line of that Naath he wrote is, “Wo Soo’e La’la Zaar Phirte hai”.
The beautiful Naath continues praising the Beloved Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) and ends with the following verse, “Koyi Kyu Pooch Teri Baat Raza, Tujh se Kutte Hazaar Phirte hai”. Here, A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh), showing his love, devotion, affection and humility for the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), lowered himself to the extremes and addressed himself as the ‘dog’ of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). He continued reciting that verse while he respectfully sat in front of the Rauza-e-Mubarak. At that point, he was blessed with the opportunity of seeing with his naked eyes Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) standing beside the Rauza-e-Mubarak.
“Hame Ai Raza tere Dil ka Pata Chala ba Mushkil
Darre Roza Ke Muqaabil wo hame Nazar to Aaya
Ye Na pooch kaisa Paaya, Ye Na pooch kaisa Paaya
Tuje Humd he Khuda ya, Tuje Humd he Khuda ya”
- LOVE FOR RASOOLULLAH (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam):
A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) spent every moment of his life praising the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). Everything he did was for the Pleasure of Almighty Allah and His Beloved Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam).
Once, A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) went into the Raza Masjid in Bareilly Shareef. He was confronted by a Majzoob, Hazrat Dhoka Shah (Rahmatullah Alaih). The Majzoob said, “O Ahmad Raza! I see the Power of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) only on the earth and not in the skies.” A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh), in turn, replied, “The Power of Huzoor (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) is on the earth and in the skies.” The Majzoob said that he could not see this. A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) said, “Whether you see it or not, it is still present.” The Majzoob, in a highly spiritual state, said, “Go! I have dropped him.”
At that moment, Hazrat Mustafa Raza Khan (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh), who was still a child, was playing on the roof of the house. When Sayyiduna A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) reached the house, his mother came up to him and said, “You should know better than to argue with Majzoobs. Look! Mustafa Raza has fallen off the roof.” A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) enquired as to whether his son had been hurt or not. When he was told that he was not injured, he said, “I am prepared to sacrifice a thousand Mustafa Razas on the Raza (pleasure) of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), but I will not allow one word to be uttered against the dignity of Rasool-e-Akram (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam).”
After some time, the Majzoob returned and met Sayyiduna A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) and said, “O Ahmad Raza! You are victorious. Our case was brought up before Sultaanul-Hind, Hazrat Khwaja Ghareebun Nawaaz (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh). He had passed the verdict on your behalf, and Alhamdulillah, through your blessings I am now able to see the Power of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) even in the skies.”
It has been recorded that Hazrat Maulana Naeemuddeen Muradabadi (Rahmatullah Alaih) once asked A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) the reason for him being so severe upon those who disrespected Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) replied, “O Maulana! I am severe upon those people, because instead of insulting Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), they should rather make me the target for their insults. I do not have any interest in what they are calling me. At least, while they are busy insulting me, my Beloved Master, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) is spared from their insults.”
The above mentioned incidents clearly highlight the following thoughts of Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh): “If you desire my life, I will sacrifice it. If you desire my wealth I will give it. But, there is one thing that I will never sacrifice, and that is the love and reverence for the Beloved of Allah, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam).”
- LOVE AND RESPECT FOR THE DESCENDANTS OF RASOOLULLAH (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam):
It was A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) who showed the Muslim world how to respect the descendants or family of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). His entire life was filled with such incidents.
Once, Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) was invited to the home of a certain person. In those days, the Ulama were carried in chariots as a means of transport. A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) was sitting in one of these chariots that were being carried by the chariot-bearers. As they proceeded along the way, Sayyiduna A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) suddenly commanded the chariot-bearers to stop. He immediately alighted from the chariot and asked, “Who is a Sayyid from amongst you? I am receiving the scent of a Sayyid.” One of the chariot-bearer’s, who was a Sayyid, was too scared to speak. Nevertheless, when A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) further prompted that person to reveal himself, he came forward and admitted that he was a Sayyid.
With tears in his eyes, A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) fell at his feet and began asking for pardon. The Sayyid continuously asked A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) to refrain from doing so, but A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) continued asking for pardon, by saying, “Please forgive me. What would I do on the Day of Qiyaamah if the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) asks me concerning this incident, and says to me that I showed disrespect to his family?”
The Sayyid readily forgave A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh). But this Aashiq-e-Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) was not yet satisfied. He commanded the Sayyid to sit on the chariot, and placing the chariot on his blessed shoulders, carried the Sayyid for the same distance which he had been carried! Allahu Akbar! Those who had been witnesses to this incident could not believe that the Imam of the Ahle Sunnah, the Mujaddid of Islam was carrying a chariot-bearer on his blessed shoulders. But to A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh), that person that he was carrying was no ordinary chariot-bearer. It was the descendant of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam)!
It has also been stated that a child, who was a Sayyid, used to live in the vicinity of Bareilly Shareef. The child used to play in the presence of A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) while A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) would be busy writing. Each time the child ran pass the door or came in the presence of A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh), he would stand up in respect for that child. Even when the child passed the door ten times in a day, then A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) used to stand up tens times in a day in respect for that Sayyid child.
When Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) was asked about the Islamic punishment that was to be meted out to a Sayyid, he remarked, “Even though a judge is called upon to declare judgment and punishment upon a Sayyid, and the penalty that he has decreed is within the tenets of Islam, he (the judge), should not have the Niyat (intention) that he is punishing the Sayyid. Rather, he should think that a small amount of mud has smeared itself on the Sayyid’s feet, which he is merely washing away”. [Al Malfooz Shareef]
