Signs of Weak Iman (Faith) And Ways to Increase Your Faith

Signs of Weak Iman (Faith)

The most important thing in any religion is the firm belief of its followers towards their Lord. Every religion wants its followers to be strong believers and act upon the commandments of the religion wholeheartedly. Faith helps to shape the perception of a person related to life, Hence, if the foundation of faith is weak, it is quite natural to expect the faith of believer to falter and shake in life-related the way he/ she sees life and things happening in it. 





Faith is directly connected with the heart. Allah Almighty has warned us against the heart that is hardened, closed, sick, blind and sealed. The spiritual health of our hearts determines the strength of our faith. When our faith is weak, we can see it in our actions. When the faith of believers is weak, they are more likely to fall into sins until they are completely numb to their awful nature. Religion Islam commands its followers to pay proper attention to the elements of faith and not weaken the faith by staying unfamiliar with them. We need to know the symptoms of weak faith so that we can work to cure them.  

Signs of Weak Iman (Faith).  

Below mentioned are some of the symptoms of weak faith that we should know about so that we can overcome them for making our faith strong. 

• Being arrogant about sins shows a lack of faith and a Muslim should avoid it by keeping quiet on if the sin is committed and seeking forgiveness from Allah Almighty. Muslims should seek forgiveness and repent on their sins. 
• Who do not repent over their sins, are the ones who need to think over the kind of faith they have because sins without any regret or repentance represent weak faith.
• Those who have a hard heart and no desire to read the Quran, neglecting the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), always being late for the Salah are the signs of weak faith of the believer. Therefore, we should recite the Quran by heart and follow the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in order to strengthen our faith.
• Missing attention, focus and the presence of heart and mind during Salah is another sign of weak faith. Muslim should counter it by standing in prayer with all the focus on it and nothing else.
• If the hearts of Muslims become hard that do not move on any kind of calamity or that are insensitive to the difficulties of people, then it surely is a sign of weak faith. Being Muslims we need to consider it for improvement.
• The verses of the Holy Quran cannot fail to affect a true believer whose faith is strong. But for those with weak faith will notice their hearts unmoved with the message of the Noble Quran.
• The ones who have weak faith will be more inclined towards taking revenge and will also lack patience. Hence, the absence of forgiveness and the lack of patience in the character and attitude of a person is another sign that shows a person growing weaker in faith.
• Muslim is to avoid even the slightest inclinations of arrogance and stay away from them by adopting the crib of humility. Being humble is the only counter to arrogance and one can achieve humility if one thinks of others as equals and realize that Allah Almighty is the only Supreme in the whole Universe.
• Religion Islam teaches its followers to be selfless, to prefer the ease and facilitation of others over one’s own self, thus, those who show greed in terms of worldly possessions and their own personal liking over the general well-being are the ones who exhibit signs of weak faith. 

In a nutshell, a Muslim believer mends his or her actions and tries performing them with the right intentions in the right way so that they resemble and represent someone with a stronger faith. May Almighty Allah strengthen our faith! Ameen.

Justice in Islam | Perspective from Quran and Sunnah

Justice refers to equality in giving rights and in enduring by obligations without discriminations for any reason, either for religion, race or color. As we know Islam comes from the word “Salaam” meaning “Peace” and, since the religion, Islam is based on total submission to the will of Lord. We Muslims believe that we can get real peace only when we submit to our Lord the Creator of this world and everything in it.

Justice in Islam also means giving equal rights and treatment to others. Justice is a moral virtue and an attribute of human personality. Justice is close to equality in the sense that it creates a state of equilibrium in the distribution of rights and duties, but they are not identical. The Prophet (SAW) declared about Justice in Islam in a way: “There are seven categories of people whom God will shelter under His shade on the Day when there will be no shade except His. (One is) the just leader.”(Sahih Muslim)

Justice according to Quran

In Islam Justice is considered to be the supreme virtue. In Holy Quran Allah Almighty mentioned about Justice in many times that we are going to discuss below:

Allah Almighty said in the Quran: “God commands justice and fair dealing…” (Quran 16:90). From this verse, we can conclude that Allah commanded us to do justice and fair dealings in all aspects of life whether it’s small or big matter. In another verse of Quran related to Justice, Allah Almighty says: “O you, who believe, be upright for God, and (be) bearers of witness with justice!” (Quran 5:8). Therefore, we can conclude justice is an obligation of Islam and injustice is forbidden. The place or importance of justice to the Quranic value system is displayed by the following verse: “We sent Our Messengers with clear signs and sent down with them the Book and the Measure in order to establish justice among the people…” (Quran 57:25)

The one and only purpose of sending the prophets was to establish Justice in the world and end injustice. By doing justice means giving everyone his right. But this simple statement covers all the complexities of life in their endless and ever-changing relations; all the allurement; all the conflicts and problems. To guide the people, Allah sent down the Prophets with clear signs, the Book, and the Balance. The Book contains the revelations that spell out what’s fair and unfair or right and wrong. From the Holy Book, we can understand what is right or wrong and what Allah has commanded us.

In another verse of the Holy Quran Allah says: “… Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.” (Quran 60:8). From this verse, we can conclude that Quran spells out the distinction between good and bad through vivid commandants regarding justice. Allah has asked His worshippers to maintain the system of justice even if the conditions and circumstances are against family and kinship. Quran narrated it as: “O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both….” (Quran 4:135).

While dealing with one’s enemy one is not strong enough to do justice because the hatred surpasses the sublime feelings of justice. Despite, the Quran has asked to fear Allah and establish justice with an enemy as well. Allah is All-Watchful, observe everything, and will hold a person accountable for an inch of injustice if happened. In other words, you cannot do injustice even when you are dealing with the enemy.

The Quran also refers to particular instances and contexts of justice. One such instance is the requirement of just treatment of orphans. In Holy Quran, Allah Almighty stated that: “And approach not the property of the orphan except in the fairest way, until he [or she] attains the age of full strength, and give measurement and weight with justice…” (Quran 6:152)

Justice according to Sunnah of Prophet (SAW)

The Prophet (SAW) asked to be just and kind. He (SAW) always had to deal with people and their affairs as a supreme judge, reformer, apostle, and leader of Muslims. In conducting Justice our beloved Prophet (SAW) made no distinction between believers and non-believers, friends and foes, high and low.

There are so many examples of Justice from the life of Prophet (SAW) from which we can get inspiration and can do justice in our all aspects of life. Here we will discuss some of them:

A woman of the Makhzoom family with good connections was found guilty of theft. For the prestige of the Quraish, some prominent people including Usaamah Ibn Zayd, may Allah be pleased with him, interceded to save her from punishment. The Prophet (SAW) refused to forgive the crime and expressed displeasure saying: “Many a community ruined itself in the past as they only punished the poor and ignored the offenses of the exalted. By Allah, if Muhammad’s (My) daughter Fatimah would have committed theft, her hand would have been severed.” (Bukhari)

Allah has commanded his messengers to establish justice and spoke to them in an affirmative tone as quoted in Hadith: “O My slaves, I have forbidden injustice for Myself and forbade it also for you. So avoid being unjust to one another.” (Sahih Muslim)

Allah detests a ruler who has bestowed with supremacy yet is ignorant of justice. Allah will deprive him of His shade in His territory at the Day of estimation as Hadith narrates: “There are seven categories of people whom God will shelter under the shade of His throne on the Day when there will be no shade except this. [One is] the just leader.” (Sahih Muslim)

In another hadith, the Holy Prophet (SAW) stated that: “People, beware of injustice, for injustice shall be darkness on the Day of Judgment.”(Musnad Ahmed). So we can say we have to know about justice and injustice, if we know about it then we can act according to that. Justice has broad meanings that include unfair dealings, uttering words that can hurt the sentiments and biased feelings towards fellow being.

Justice is an essential part of Islamic teachings and should be part of every faith messenger. The foundation of a territory is justice that Allah has loved for His worshipper and commanded His messenger too. Those who will neglect justice will in the lowest steep of hell and the oppressed get their due rights.

About Qibla Travels Ltd:

Qibla Travel offers a wide range of exciting Umrah Packages for Muslim brothers and sisters residing in London, Birmingham, Manchester, and all over the UK. The comfort of our clients is our top priority. If you are planning for Hajj and Umrah this year, then contact us at for further details ***020 8558 4848***

source: quranreading.com

Rewards and Benefits of Reciting Surah Ikhlas

While every single word of Quran is poetic and a miracle in itself, yet, there are different parts of the Quran that are more reverend and more respected across the Muslim world. This preference and greater respect are not to be mistaken for the personal liking of the Muslims, rather there is evidence from hadith and Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) that make a particular part of Quran gain more respect than the other. Surah Ikhlas is one of the prominence surahs of the Holy Quran which holds the highest importance in Islamic contest. One can bring the biggest happiness in life while reciting Surah Ikhlas and benefits of reciting this great Surah is discussed below.

Surah Ikhlas was revealed in Makah and it has 4 verses. Recitation of this surah brings a reward equivalent to reciting one-third of the Quran. It is one of the most recited Surahs of Quran and Muslim all across the world memorize it as one of the first Surahs when memorizing passages from Noble Quran. The person who recites Surah Ikhlas regularly is considered as clean. Reciting this surah enhances ones wisdom and whatever they do, they will get success in their life. Many people who had been facing tough times were asked to recite Surah Ikhlas by spiritual personalities and most of them showed satisfaction and happiness after reciting Surah Ikhlas regularly. Another most interesting thing about this surah is that whoever recites it regularly is being protected from all kinds of diseases and viral infections.

Rewards and Benefits of Reciting Surah Ikhlas

There are many benefits of reciting Surah Ikhlas some of them are given below that we all should know about:

• Reciting Surah Ikhlas will give protection against every kind of affliction and calamity.

• If surah Ikhlas is recited on regular basis it will break magic and completely destroys witchcraft, psychic attacks, and malicious magic spells.

• Surah al Ikhlas is a means of forgiveness of sins.

• Make all Halal wishes come true while reciting Surah Ikhlas.

• House in Jannah. ProphetMohammed (SAW) said: “Whoever recites Qul Huwa Allaahu Ahad ten times; Allah will build for him a house in Paradise.” (Saheeh al-Jaami).

• Success in business.

• Increase in the recitation of Surah Ikhlas is a means of attaining the love of Allah.

• Surah Ikhlas is a means of eliminating poverty.

• The recitation of Surah Ikhlas in combination with Surah Fatiha before going to bed is a source of protection from all kinds of harms. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: “When you recite Surah Fatiha and Surah Ikhlas upon lying on your bed, you will be safeguarded and should become fearless of everything except death.”

• Recitation of Surah Ikhlas brings the benefit of reward equal to the recitation of one-third of Quran. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: “Say: He is Allah, Absolute Oneness…, By Him in Whose hand my soul is, it is equal to one-third of the Quran!” (Bukhari).

• The constant recitation of Surah Ikhlas increases the presence of the angels at the time of death.

• Whoever recites Surah Ikhlas in his obligatory prayers Allah grants him good in this world as well as in the next life and forgives him, his parents and children.

In short, it is essential that every Muslim realizes the importance of Surah Ikhlas, memorize it and recite it on daily basis to receive numerous rewards and benefits. May Allah (SWT) make us read this Surah in excess so that we can earn blessings from our Lord! Ameen.

About Qibla Travels Ltd:

Qibla Travel offers a wide range of exciting Umrah Packages for Muslim brothers and sisters residing in London, Birmingham, Manchester, and all over the UK. The comfort of our clients is our top priority. If you are planning for Hajj and Umrah this year, then contact us at for further details ***020 8558 4848***

source: quranreading.com/blog

Drinking Alcohol is the Greatest Sin in Islam

Khamr is the word used for Alcoholic drinks in the Holy Quran. In religion Islam, anything that is harmful to human beings and society is forbidden. Alcohol is indeed harmful and negatively affects the mind and the body. Therefore, Islam takes the determined stand towards alcohol and forbids its consumption in either small or large quantities. Alcohol is the thirteenth among the Greater Sins in religion Islam. In Holy Quran, Allah Almighty says: “They ask you about intoxicants and the games of chance Say: in both of them there is a great sin and means of profit for men, and their sin is greater than their profit.” (Quran, 2:219)

Drinking alcohol can, in fact, cause permanent damage to memory and learning ability. It darkens the mind, causes disease, wastes money, and destroys individuals, families, and communities. In another verse of the Holy Quran, Allah Almighty said: “…The devil wants only to cast among you enmity and hatred by means of strong drink and games of chance and to turn you from remembering Allah and from prayer. Will you then desist” (Quran, 5:90-91). Above mentioned verses are the ones that declared total prohibition of alcohol to the Muslims. After the revelation of the verse (5:90-91), the Muslim citizens of Medina immediately began to discharge their stocks of wine into the sand and streets; so that the wine ran through the streets of Medina. They rushed to make ablutions in order to purify themselves and started to act just like Allah Almighty commanded.

Drinking alcohol leads many people to do things that they regret afterward. These can include violence, drink-driving, sex before marriage or with other than one’s wife and many other things that not only break Islamic law but damage the moral fabric of societies leading to the breakup of families and hatred between people. Drinking can also lead to loss of self-esteem, dignity and terrible arguments. Not drinking helps people to avoid these sins. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: “Allah has cursed alcoholic drinks and: the one who drinks it, the one who serves it, the one who sells it, the one who purchases it, the one who squeezes [the fruit to produce it], the one for whom it is squeezed (the brewer), the one who carries it and the one to whom it is carried.” (Abu Dawud)

Drinking alcohol and other intoxicants cause hundreds and thousands of people die every year from illnesses brought about by alcohol and drug abuse. Drinking Alcohol drives people to do acts that they would never consider otherwise. It causes them to forget their duty to Allah Almighty and also leads to mental illnesses and sometimes suicides. Whilst addicted to drinks a person does not take seriously his responsibilities, He neglects his wife, children, parents, and even his Lord. Allah Almighty may punish him, or may forgive him; Allah says: “Indeed, Allah does not forgive association with Him, but He forgives what is less than that for whom He wills.”(Quran 4:48)

Among the evidence of punishment due to Alcohol in the Hereafter is the hadith in which the Prophet (SAW) said, “Every intoxicant is forbidden. Verily, Allah vowed that those who drank intoxicants will drink from the river of Khabaal.” The Prophet (SAW) was asked, “And what is the river of khabaal?” He replied, “The pus or sweat of the people of the Hellfire.” (Muslim)

Abdullah ibn ‘Amr (RA) narrated in hadith that, “Whoever drinks wine in this worldly life and does not repent from it will be forbidden from drinking it in the Hereafter.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

The one who drinks wine, Allah Almighty shall not accept his salah for 40 days. If he makes repents, Allah will accept his repentance. If he drinks wine again, Allah shall not accept his salah for 40 days. If he repents again, Allah will accept his repentance. If he drinks alcohol again, Allah shall not accept his salah for another 40 days. If he repents again, Allah will accept his repentance. If he drinks alcohol the fourth time, then Allah will not accept his repentance. If he dies, he will enter Hell, In Hell, he will be made to drink from the pus of the people of Jahannum.

May Almighty Allah keep us all away from this greatest sin and give us the strength to follow the straight path. Ameen!

About Qibla Travels Ltd:

Qibla Travel offers a wide range of exciting Umrah Packages for Muslim brothers and sisters residing in London, Birmingham, Manchester, and all over the UK. The comfort of our clients is our top priority. If you are planning for Hajj and Umrah this year, then contact us at for further details ***020 8558 4848***

source: quranreading.com

Importance of Marriage according to Islam

Allah Almighty created men and women as company for one another, and so that they can become parents and live in peace and calmness according to the commandments of Allah Almighty. Allah says in Holy Quran: “And among His signs is this that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that you may dwell in tranquility with them, and He has put love and mercy between your hearts. Undoubtedly in these are signs for those who reflect.”(Quran, 30:21). Islam emphasizes on marriage as it has great importance in Islam with many benefits that one could get from it.

Importance of Marriage in Islam

In Islam marriage being an obligatory act is so important that it is declared to be one half of single Muslim’s faith. We can also say that Marriage Half Deen of Muslims. It is narrated by Anas that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “When a man marries, he has fulfilled half of his religion, so let him fear Allah regarding the remaining half.” Our Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) also married and encouraged others to get married by saying: “A person who he is able to support a wife and children and does not marry then he is not from us.” Marriage has great importance in Islam, it emphasizes on not to delay in marriage as there is another Hadith of Prophet (SAW) related to marriage is: “Do not delay in three things; i) The offering of the compulsory prayer. ii) The offering of the funeral prayer when the dead body is present. iii) The marriage of a woman when her match is found”

There are some reasons due to which Islam so much emphasized on Marriage which we have listed below:

• Marriage makes an incomplete human being a complete one, our Prophet Muhammad (SAW)says, “No house has been built in Islam more beloved in the sight of Allah than through marriage”
• It is necessary for making the family (for children)
• Marriage is one of the most liked Sunnah in Islam as our beloved Prophet (SAW) married and also encouraged others
• It provides tranquility, peace, and security
• It is a bond of love not just only between two persons but between two families
• It is a source to experience love and happiness

Besides this, we have so many verses in Quran related to the importance of Marriage in Islam and in the sight of Almighty Allah. In one place Allah says in Quran: “O Humans revere your Guardian-Lord, Who created you from a single person created of like nature its mate, and from this scattered (like seeds) countless men and women. Reverence Allah through Whom you claim your mutual rights” (Quran 4:1). In this verse by stressing on the equality of all humans men or women and making it the basis of marriage, Allah in His infinite wisdom has laid the ground rules for establishing peace, as well as the assigning of different roles to husband and wife as the functional strategy rather than a question of competence as humans. Allah has made partners of all human beings on this earth for making a family. We should trust on Almighty Allah and have to act according to His teachings and Sunnah of Prophet (SAW).

Prophet Mohammad (SAW) stated that: “Men and women are twin halves of each other” (Bukhari). This Hadith also emphasize the fact that men and women are created from a single source. Furthermore, by using the analogy of twin half the Prophet has underlined the reciprocal nature and the interdependent nature of men and women’s relationship. Since the family is the foundation of Islamic society, and marriage is the only way to bring families into existence in Islam.

Marriage is an act pleasing Allah Almighty because it is in accordance with his commandments that husband and wife love each other and help each other to make efforts to continue the human race and raise their children to become true servants of Allah.

Conditions of Marriage

Thoughtful consideration of the Quranic instructions and the traditions of the Prophet (SAW) clearly show that marriage is compulsory for a man who has the means to easily pay the Mahr (dowry) and to support a wife and children. Both sides must be free of obstacles to marry and have legal capacity. Their guardians (woman’s father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, etc. respectively.) must be present at the same time during the proposal and acceptance. The prohibitions of marriage include the prohibitions about blood and milk kinship must be observed. There must be no other conditions demanded by any of the sides which may prevent the Nikah. The bride and the groom must have reached the age of maturity both the bride and the groom must be chaste.

Benefits of Marriage

Islam defined matters that contain good benefits both in this world and in the Hereafter and among the greatest benefits of marriage are listed below:

• By getting married you are obeying the Prophet (SAW) and his Sunnah because our beloved Prophet (PBUH) said: “O young people! Whoever among you is able to marry, should marry.” (Al Bukhari)
• Marriage guarantees physical and spiritual chastity and peace of a person and keeps the couple away from the downfall and trap of the Satan. Allah SWT mentioned in verse about chastity: “And those who guard their chastity (i.e. private parts, from illegal sexual acts)” (Quran, 23:5).
• Through marriage, the couples achieve mutual affection, mercy, and love. Allah (SWT) says: “And He has put between you affection and mercy” (Quran, 30:21)
• With marriage, the couple will have righteous offspring. It is the survival of generation and it results in obtaining great and good rewards by having righteous children
• The couples will also gain good rewards while having children, upbringing them in accordance with the Islamic teachings
• By marrying and fulfilling the rights of the husband, the believing woman will enter into Paradise
• A righteous wife is the better provision of this world. The Prophet (PBUH) said: “This world is but the provision, and there is no provision in this world better than a righteous wife.”(Muslim)
• Marriage increases sustenance, love, respect, caring, selflessness and forgiving factors between husband and wife

These were some of the benefits of Marriage that we discussed. Islam promotes love, care, and respect in the Muslim society where wife and husband live happily with their children and families. Marriage in Islam teaches both men and women to stay ready to sacrifice and endure for his/her life partner. The main purpose of marriage is protection against a sinful life and living a life according to the teachings of Islam.

Qibla Travels Ltd offers:

Qibla Travel offers a wide range of exciting Umrah Packages for Muslim brothers and sisters residing in London, Birmingham, Manchester, and all over the UK. The comfort of our clients is our top priority. If you are planning for Hajj and Umrah this year, then contact us at for further details ***020 8558 4848***

source: quranreading.com

What is Mehr in Marriage? | According to Islam and Quran

Marriage has special importance in Islam. Marriage is a legal contract between two parties. In Islam marriage being an obligatory act is so important that it is declared to be one half of Muslim’s faith. We can say that Marriage is Half Deen of Muslims. It is narrated by Anas that the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said, “When a man marries, he has fulfilled half of his religion, so let him fear Allah regarding the remaining half.”

When marriage vows are recited then husband gives his wife a gift which is known as “Haq Mehr”. In religion Islam, there are some basic components that have to be fulfilled without them marriage is not completed. One of those components is “Mehr” which is the amount of wealth that the husband pays to his wife.

Allah Almighty called it “freedah” in the Quran and commanded Muslim men to pay it happily to their wives. So it’s obligatory on every man who is going to get married to pay “Mehr in Marriage” to his wife. It is the legal right of the wife. It can be in cash or any other kind of property. The amount is variable not fixed and should be agreed to by both parties. No one is excluded from this as our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW) also paid “Mehr” to His wives. In Holy Quran, Allah Almighty said in these words: “O Prophet, We have made permissible for you the wives whose dower you have paid….” (Quran, 33:50)

The Mehr is the sole property of the wife and neither parents nor any other relatives have any right over it. Hence, in the light of the Quran and Hadith, it can carefully be said that the Mehr is the amount of wealth that a Muslim man must pay in order to be able to start to, and continue to, enjoy a Muslim woman’s private parts in the way approved by Allah Almighty i.e. through halal married relations.

Islam is the complete code of life, by which all the financial responsibilities are laid on the man in marriage. But the Mehr is a token installment and a commitment which the man shows regarding his responsibility towards his wife. Allah says in the Noble Quran: “And give unto the women, (whom ye marry) free gift of their marriage portions…” (Quran, An-Nisa’: 4)

Mehr only belongs to the wife.

Mehr only belongs to the wife and it is to be given to her. It is not the property of her parents or her guardian. If a husband dies without paying Mehr to his wife, it will be an exceptional debt to him and it must be paid before the distribution of his inheritance among his inheritors. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said about the value of Mehr: “Go and look for something, even if it is a ring of iron.” (Bukhari)

The man has to pay to the divorced woman an amount which was decided at the time of Nikah that is “Mehr”. In Quran Allah Almighty said: “And if you decided to divorce a wife in order to take another, do not take away anything of what you might have given the first one, even if you had given her a great amount of gold. Would you take it back by slandering her and committing a manifest offense? (Quran, 4:20)

In short, we can say that “Mehr” is totally for the woman and it is for her security. Nobody can demand the Mehr from a woman, not even her parents, siblings or guardian. Islam has commanded the Mehr obligatory in marriage. May Allah give us chance to live our lives according to Islamic and Quranic teachings. Ameen!

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Significance Of Quran in Islam

Significance Of Quran in Islam

Muslims believe that Quran is the Book of Allah uncovered to PBUH (Prophet Muhammad) that will proceed positively till fulfillment of the world to guide and direct the entire humanity, independent of country, land mass, nation, era, and region. It is not simply a wellspring of identification and direction for the follower additionally benevolence changing. This conviction requested that Muslims should create a dynamic association with it, consider over its verses, interpret it, got the light of its preaching, a conclusion it genuinely and ought to have satisfied the obligations set on them through this book.

However, the instance of Muslims is unusual. They don’t even feel the need of perusing this book with perception. They are pleased only by reading it and trusting in. In the result, their connection with Quran has truly been laid up. The focal region of crucial should have been holding by this book and the Sunnah (customs) of the prophet for Muslims is carried by various identities and their books or that they have actually wound up being free to take after their own choice. This situation is not such that we could basically ignore it. Briefly, yet there is a need to analyze, the reason and dispose of the inabilities to think straight concerning this.

Generally, individuals believe that the Quran is in Arabic and they don’t know Arabic, it is not required for them to understand the sense and meaning of the Quran. This reason would have been satisfactory if there were no resources available for comprehension its definition and message. Though, what does this reason describe when each kind of asset to appreciate its importance and message is promptly accessible? In modern times guidance is normal and the new routines for printing have really given enormous assets to distribution and diffusion of learning, thus far, as the Quran is concerned its interpretation is quickly accessible in loads of, and discourse in a very couple of, dialects of the world. At that point, what stays away from us to exploit them?

Nowadays everybody must do an effort to make up a great career and future; a college peruses a number of books, studies them inside and out and commits a worthy piece of his life for receiving information. How extreme is his undertaking! Everyone is ready to face these issue for common advantages, yet, to deal the upsides of the hereafter none deals with the exploration of the Quran. By taking in the jargon of Quran or its explanation, the ability to comprehend the Book of Allah can be created and when Quran is presented in the Salat, its implications can be observed and its sweet taste can enhance the worship.

When a person receives a letter from his dear ones in a language not known to him, makes another person read it keeping in mind the purpose to appreciate it. Likewise, he couldn’t care less to understand the message conveyed by the Allah for his slaves.

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Signs leading to faith

Signs leading to faith

The concept that great Islamic scholars refer to as “signs leading to faith” involves all facts of creation, knowledge and evidence of all kinds that lead people to faith concerning the existence and oneness of Allah and revealing His sublime might, wisdom and artistry.

Signs leading to faith are important means whereby people come to believe. Allah notes the danger of “irreligion” when He says in one verse that “most people have no faith.” Someone who does not believe is unaware of much and cannot see the proofs of creation all around. Due to the irreligious nature of the society in which he lives, his mind is smothered in day-to-day details, and his understanding and perceptions are weakened to the innumerable signs of creation around. Yet it may be hoped that if such a person is sincere and of good conscience and is told of the signs leading to faith he can come to believe in the existence and oneness of Allah and the fact that He created all things, living or not, and will see His infinite might and omniscience. Signs leading to faith are means whereby good people unaware of the truth due to irreligious indoctrination can, by Allah’s leave, come to have faith.

It is not only important for unbelievers to reflect on these signs, but also for believers. In the Qur’an Allah commands believers to reflect deeply on the signs He has created in the universe.

A believer must reflect deeply, as well as praying, fasting and performing the other observances. Reflecting on the proofs of creation “in the heavens and earth” stressed in the Qur’an will increase the believer’s faith with certain knowledge. Verses in which Allah reveals that reflection on these proofs increases one’s faith read: “There are certainly signs in the earth for people with certainty; and in yourselves as well. Do you not then see?” (Qur’an, 51:20-21)

These verses explicitly state that the signs leading to faith in a person’s own body and self, and on the earth will lead to faith based on certain knowledge. And that will increase one’s fear of Allah, so one will be even more punctilious about obeying Allah’s commands and prohibitions. Someone who reflects on the signs of creation will be assured that Allah sees his observances and will reward him for his good deeds. In the same way, knowing that Allah will see his slightest error will encourage him to repent and abandon those errors very quickly. Allah calls on believers as follows:

“You who have faith! Have fear of Allah and seek the means of drawing near to Him, and strive in His Way, so that hopefully you will be successful.” (Qur’an, 5:35)

As revealed in this verse, seeking means to draw closer to Allah is a means whereby one may hope for salvation. Signs leading to faith bestow a deeper understanding of the presence and titles of Allah and are means of drawing closer to Him. For example, examining the life forms created by Allah, seeing and reflecting upon their perfect structures and systems, will enable one to witness His might and omniscience from a much closer perspective.

“It is He Who sends down water from the sky. From it you drink and from it come the shrubs among which you graze your herds.” (Qur’an, 16:10)

Reflecting on signs leading to faith and seeing the manifestations of Allah therein will allow one to know Allah better. Thanks to this virtue acquired by someone who begins to know Allah and see His manifestations, one will properly appreciate His might.

For instance, as a result of deep reflection on and knowledge of signs leading to faith, one will better understand this fact; all the billions of people on Earth are known to and under the control of Allah at every moment. The trillions of cells in a body, the billions of human bodies in the world and all the living things in the universe exist and survive by Allah’s choosing; this will obviously require an infinite might, knowledge, wisdom and intelligence to survive. Reflecting on that fact alone will allow one to closely witness the infinite attributes of Allah and properly appreciate His omnipotence.

Allah cites in the Qur’an a tiny fly as an example for people to reflect on, and then reveals that those who are heedless of these facts have failed to properly appreciate His might:

“Mankind! An example has been made, so listen to it carefully. Those whom you call upon besides Allah are not even able to create a single fly, even if they were to join together to do it. And if a fly steals something from them, they cannot get it back. How feeble are both the seeker and the sought! They do not measure Allah with His true measure. Allah is All-Strong, Almighty.” (Qur’an, 22: 73-74)

It is revealed in other verses of the Qur’an that people who do not reflect on signs leading to faith do not fear Allah: “Say: ‘Who provides for you out of heaven and earth? Who controls hearing and sight? Who brings forth the living from the dead and the dead from the living? Who directs the whole affair?’ They will say, ‘Allah.’ Say, ‘So will you not have fear?’ That is Allah, your Lord, the Truth, and what is there after truth except misguidance? So how have you been distracted?” (Qur’an, 10:31-32)

The importance of constant reflection on signs leading to growing in faith and closeness to Allah is emphasized in many verses. For example, it is revealed in the Qur’an that believers think long and hard about the creation of the earth and sky:

“In the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the alternation of night and day, there are signs for people with intelligence: those who remember Allah, standing, sitting and lying on their sides, and reflect on the creation of the heavens and the earth: “Our Lord, You have not created this for nothing. Glory be to You! So safeguard us from the punishment of the Fire’.” (Qur’an, 3:190-191)

As can be seen from these verses, investigating and learning about signs leading to faith, and thinking properly about them, must be a means whereby one can understand with sure and certain knowledge that all things, living or otherwise, are under the absolute control and dominion of Allah and that understanding will bring with it full submission to Allah.

A believer who knows and thinks about the complex systems in the body and their delicate balances will also realize that the mind that produced these flawlessly functioning systems are not his own; he will know that what he calls his body is a collection of cells made up of atoms with no consciousness, sensory organs or ability to think. As a result of that reflection he will definitively conclude that every cell, and even every atom in his body acts by the will and command of Allah. He will see that there is no room for chance anywhere.

source: arabnews.com

The day of Ashura

The day of Ashura

The first month of the Hijri calendar is the month of Muharram which is one of the four sacred months.

{Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve (lunar) months in the register of Allah (from) the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four are sacred. That is the correct religion, so do not wrong yourselves during them. And fight against the disbelievers collectively as they fight against you collectively. And know that Allah is with the righteous (who fear Him)}. (Chapter 9, verse 36)

Abu Bakr reported that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “The year is 12 months of which four are sacred, the three consecutive months of Dhu al-Qa’dah, Dhu al-Hijjah and Muharram, and Rajab, which comes between Jumada al-Akhirah and Shaban.” (Al-Bukhari)

The 10th day of Muharram, the day of Ashura (means tenth in Arabic) is a significant day for all Muslims. On this day of Ashura Allah accepted the repentance of Adam after his exile from Paradise. Allah saved Prophet Nuh and his believing companions in the ark on this day. Also, it is the day when Allah saved Prophet Musa from his enemies; Pharaoh and his army.

The companion of the Prophet, Ibn Abbas, said, “The Prophet (peace be upon him) came to Madinah and saw the Jews fasting on the day of Ashura. He said, ‘What is this?’ They said, ‘This is a righteous day, it is the day when Allah saved the Children of Israel from their enemies, so Musa fasted on this day.’ He said, ‘We have more right to Musa than you,’ so he fasted on that day and commanded (the Muslims) to fast on that day.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari)

Fasting on Ashura, expiates for the sins of the past year.

As it is obligatory for all Muslims to fast during the month of Ramadan, we are recommended to practice some other voluntary fasts during the year, such as fasting the 13th, 14th and 15th days of the lunar months. Fasting on the day of Arafat and fasting on the tenth of Muharram, along with fasting a day before and a day after the tenth, are among the best types of voluntary fasting.

Abu Hurairah, the well-known companion of the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The Messenger of Allah said, “The best of fasting after Ramadan is fasting Allah’s month of Muharram.” (Muslim)

Therefore, fasting during the month of Muharram is highly recommended in Islam. For this reason, fasting on the Day of Ashura is greatly rewarded because first it falls in the month of Muharram and second it has a special significance.

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Fasting the day of Ashura (is of great merits). I hope that Allah will accept it as an expiation for (the sins committed in) the previous year.” (Sahih Muslim and Sahih Al-Bukhari)

Ibn Abbas reported that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “I never saw the Prophet more keen to fast on any day other than the day of Ashura and any month than the month of Ramadan.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari)

Muawiyah ibn Abu Sufyan said, “I heard the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) say: ‘It is the day of Ashura. Allah has not made fasting obligatory for you. But I am fasting. He who likes to observe fast among you should do so, and he who likes not to observe it, does not have to observe it.’” (Sahih Muslim)

Fasting on Ashura was a gradual step in the process of introducing fasting as a prescribed obligation in Islam and the fourth pillar of Islam. Fasting appeared in three forms. When the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) came to Madinah, he told the Muslims to fast on three days of every month and on the day of Ashura, and then Allah made fasting obligatory. The obligation was transferred from the fast of Ashura to the fast of Ramadan.

When Allah commanded Muslims to fast the month of Ramadan, the fasting of Ashura became optional.

It is reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) intended to fast on the ninth and tenth of Muharram. Ibn Abbas reported, “The Messenger of Allah fasted on the day of Ashura and ordered the people to fast on it. The people said, ‘O Messenger of Allah, it is a day that the Jews and Christians honor.’ The Prophet said, ‘When the following year comes, Allah willing, we shall fast on the ninth (and tenth).’ The death of the Prophet came before the following year.” (Sahih Muslim and Abu Dawud)

The practice of fasting on Ashura was known even in the pre-Islamic days, before the Prophet’s mission. It was reported that A’ishah (wife of the prophet) said, “The people of Jahiliyyah used to fast on that day.”

In Sahih Al-Bukhari and other authentic collections of Hadith, it was reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his companions used to fast on the 10th day of Muharram while they were in Makkah, even before migration.

Neither the Prophet (peace be upon him) nor his successors made Ashura a day of mourning or a day of celebration.

Fasting on the day of Ashura is a way to follow the tradition of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and to expiate our sins of the past year.

source: saudigazette.com.sa

Two million faithful throng Holy Mosques

source: saudigazette.com.sa

Two million faithful throng Holy Mosques

Around two million Haj pilgrims and visitors thronged the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah to offer Friday prayers. All the floors and courtyards and King Abdullah Expansion Project in the Grand Mosque were full of worshipers and their rows spilled over to the courtyards, adjacent streets and terraces of buildings. In an unparalleled spiritual ambience that the annual pilgrimage witnessed, more than one million Haj pilgrims gathered at the Islam’s holiest shrine seeking the blessing and forgiveness from the Almighty Allah. In his Friday sermon, Sheikh Khaled Al-Ghamdi, imam and khateeb of the Grand Mosque, emphasized that absolute surrender to Allah and His Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in tranquility and joy without any objection and boredom, is the main purpose of making Haj an obligatory ritual. In Madinah, where imam and khateeb Sheikh Abdul Mohsen Al-Qassim delivered the Friday sermon, the worshipers included around 155,000 Haj pilgrims who arrived to visit the Prophet’s Mosque and greet the Prophet (pbuh) after completing their Haj rituals. — SPA

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source: saudigazette.com.sa

The keepers of the Kaaba key

 source: saudigazette.com.sa

The keepers of the Kaaba key

THE guardianship of the Kaaba is still inherited by the sons of Shaybah and their successors — a tradition that has been instituted by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) after the conquest of Makkah the eighth year after Hijrah. Following the Muslim victory, the Prophet entrusted the key of the city to Uthman Bin Abi Talha and deemed the caretaking of the Kaaba to be uniquely and eternally bestowed upon the line of the sons of Shaybah.

The prophet’s words were: “Take it, Oh Bani Talha, eternally up to the Day of Resurrection, and it will not be taken from you unless by an unjust, oppressive tyrant.” This explains why this tradition has been inherited by the sons of Shaybah and their successors till present times.

The first caretaker

Islamic researcher Mohi Eddin Al-Hashemi, who specializes in the two holy mosques, notes that the story of the guardianship of the Holy Kaaba had been first instituted during the times of the Prophet Ibrahim, who with his son Ismail (peace be upon them) were ordered by Allah to raise the foundations of the Kaaba, initiating the tradition of the guardianship of the Kaaba.

The latter includes the maintenance of all matters related to the Al-Musharrafah (Holy Kaaba) ranging from its opening and closing, to preserving its immaculacy as well as monitoring its visitors. Monitoring all affairs related to the Holy Kaaba also comprises the supervision of the mausoleum of the Prophet Ibrahim.

Al-Hashimi adds that the Prophet Ibrahim entrusted the guardianship of the Kaaba to his son Ismail, who continued it until his passing. Afterward, the tradition was taken over from the sons of Ismail against their will by the tribe of Jarham (Banu Jarhma). Later on, it came also to be forcibly passed over to the tribe of Khuzaah (Banu Khuzaah), but its possession was regained by Qusai Bin Kilab Bin Murrah, who was the third great grandfather of the Prophet and a descendent of Ismail, the first to serve as the Kaaba’s caretaker.

Subsequently all matters related to the latter were entrusted to Qusai Bin Kilab. The latter had three sons namely Abd-Al-Dar the eldest (great-great grandfather of Shaybah Bin Hashim, Abd Manaf (great-great grandfather of the Prophet Muhammad) and Abd-Al-Uzza. Abd Manaf was highly honored among the tribes for his wisdom and sound discernment during his lifetime, which prompted Qusai to entrust the caretaking of the Kaaba to Abd Manaf. However, shortly before Qusai’s death as a way of honoring his eldest Abd-Al-Dar, he entrusted to him all his rights and powers including the caretaking of Kaaba.

As stated by Mohi Eddin Al-Hashimi, the caretaking of the Kaaba is inherited by the eldest son of each family and it was passed until it transferred to Uthman Bin Talha who lived during the Prophet’s times. As reported by Uthman Bin Talha on the day of victory of Islam over Makkah in the eighth year of Hijrah, the Messenger of Allah entered the city. When the Muslims were about to enter the Kaaba they found it locked. They asked who was keeping the key and they found out it was with Uthman Bin Talha. The latter was a non-believer so upon knowing about the arrival of the Prophet in Makkah, he locked the door of the holy sanctuary.

As the Prophet entered Makkah, its people accepted Islam, but Uthman was hiding. The Prophet ordered Ali Bin Abi Talib to take the key from Uthman.

Ali went to find Uthman and asked for the key but Uthman did not give it to him. Ali then snatched the key from him for the Prophet to enter the Kaaba. They opened the door and the Prophet entered the Kaaba where he prayed two rakaas.

At that time, Abbas Bin Abd Al-Muttalib, an uncle of the Prophet, was there and requested that the key must be kept with the family and then Gabriel came down with a verse, which revealed inside the Kaaba.

The Shaybah family are the keepers of the Keys, and they are the keepers because Allah desired so by revealing the only verse that was revealed inside the Kaaba. “Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are belong to .....” ( 4:58).

Soon as that verse was revealed, the Prophet ordered Ali to return the key to Uthman Bin Talha and excuse themselves. Ali then went to Uthman and gave back the key and presented their apologies for the wrong he had done to him by forcibly taking the key. The latter shocked Uthman, who could not believe Ali was giving back the key to him as instructed by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), the conqueror of Makkah. Ali explained to him that a verse was revealed for him in which Allah instructed the Prophet to return the trust to whom it belongs to.

Al-Hashemi points out that the guardianship of the Kaaba remained with Bani Shaybah, which is bestowed upon the elders of the family until today.

The functions of the ancient caretaker were to open and lock the door of the Kaaba and to oversee its maintenance, assisting in the washing, the cleaning and supervision of the station of Abraham.

At the present time, the guardianship belongs to the sons of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zine Al Abidine Bin Abdul-Maati Al-Shaibi, who kept the honor for 43 years. When Sheikh Mohammed passed away in 1253 AH, his eldest son Abdul Kader inherited the guardianship after him, then his brothers Solomon, Ahmed and Abdullah.

Al-Hashemi says the guardianship was transferred to the next generation to Sheikh Abdul Qadir Bin Ali Bin Mohammed Bin Zine Al Abidine Al Shaibi, who died in 1351 AH after witnessing the unification of the Kingdom.

Then Mohammed Bin Mohammed Saleh Al-Shaibi became the caretaker of the Kaaba. Upon falling ill, he transferred the guardianship to Sheikh Abdullah Bin Abdul Qadir Al-Shaibi, who was succeeded by his sons Amin, Taha and then Assem.

Their cousin Talha Bin Hassan Al-Shaybi received the guardianship followed by Sheikh Abdul Aziz Bin Abdullah Bin Qadir Al-Shaybi who died in the month of Dhul Hijjah in 1431 AH. The guardianship moved to Sheikh Abdul Qadir Bin Taha Al-Shaybi who served the Kaaba for four years. His reign witnessed the change of the Kaaba’s lock by the order of King Abdullah.

Prince Khaled Al-Faisal handed Sheikh Abdul Qadir the lock on behalf of the King on the occasion of the cleaning of the Kaaba. He witnessed the installation of a lock for the inner repentance door of the Kaaba. When Sheikh Abdul Qadir died after a long battle with disease, his cousin Dr. Saleh Bin Zain Al-Abidine Al-Shaybi became the caretaker.

At present, the functions of the caretaker were limited to the opening and closing of the Kaaba. The Royal Court and the Ministry of the Interior and emergency forces coordinate with him if there are any state guests.

The Kaaba is cleaned annually on the 15th of Muharram each year. After the issuance of a Royal Order, the Emirate of Makkah coordinates with the caretaker about the arrangements.

In addition, the head caretaker receives the new cladding of the Kaaba on the first of Dhul Hijjah to be installed on the day of Arafat by the tailors and specialists of the King Abdul Aziz Complex for cladding.

The ceremony of handing over the cladding of the Kaaba takes place at the King Abdul Aziz Complex and is held in the presence of the head of the Presidency of the Two Holy Mosques Affairs alongside the director of the Complex and a large gathering of officials.

source: saudigazette.com.sa

Hajj and the Muslims’ Unity | Qibla travel

 

Hajj and the Muslims’ Unity | Qibla travel

Unity and agreement lead to strength and victory, while disunity and disagreement lead to weakness and defeat. Powerful nations only succeeded because of unity among its members and integration of its efforts. History is the best witness to this rule. Hence, we find several texts in the Quran and the Sunnah stressing this great principle and warning against disagreement and dispute. Allah The Almighty Says (what means): {And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah Is with the patient.} [Quran 8:46]

Abu Mas‘ood, May Allah Be Pleased with him, said: “The Messenger of Allah used to place his hand upon our shoulders at prayer time (when we would form rows for the prayer) and say, ‘Stand in straight rows and do not differ among yourselves, or else your hearts will differ (due to disaccord).’”[Muslim]

Hajj is a great occasion where the Muslims’ unity appears in its most beautiful forms. All differences disappear, all barriers melt and Muslims gather in this imposing scene, which delights the souls and hearts.

Muslims from all over the world gather around this Ancient House, towards which they turn to perform the prayers five times a day, the House towards which they turn their souls and hearts during prayers in their faraway lands. Now, they gather around it to see, consult, love, and shake hands with each ‎other. They took off those different and distinguishing clothes to wear a white uniform indicating the whiteness of their hearts, as well as the purity of their appearance and souls.

Indeed, these are magnificent moments when all pilgrims move from Mina to stand this great standing in ‘Arafah confirming the unity of place, time, clothes and destination.

There are unanimous manifestations of unity in Hajj, including:

Unity of place and time: Hajj is performed in a specific time and place and it is impermissible to be performed at any other time or in any other place. Allah The Almighty Says (what means): {Hajj is [during] well-known months, so whoever has made Hajj obligatory upon himself therein [by entering the state of Ihraam], there is [to be for him] no sexual relations and no disobedience and no disputing duringHajj.} [Quran 2:197]

The Prophet said: “Hajj is the standing at ‘Arafah.”[At-Tirmithi]

Unity of rituals: All pilgrims are required to perform the rituals of Hajj including Ihraam, Tawaaf, Sa‘y between the Safa and Marwah, standing at ‘Arafah, spending the night at Mina, stoning the Jamraat and so on.

All pilgrims perform the same rituals, the thing that embodies and deepens brotherhood and love among them.

Unity of aim and feeling: All pilgrims come from every distant pass hoping for the Mercy of Allah The Almighty, fearing His punishment and raising their hands to implore Him and ask for His forgiveness, bounty and satisfaction.

They have one Qiblah, one Lord, similar feelings and similar clothes. These manifestations of unity that take place in this blessed occasion maintain the feeling of unity and reinforce the feeling of brotherhood among Muslims. They also strengthen mutual sympathy and sharing in joy in addition to religious and worldly cooperation among Muslims. 

This was a brief overview of this important issue that occupy the minds of all Muslims, who aspire to a time when the Muslim nation will reunite to achieve superiority over the other nations and restore its leadership that the Muslims lost because of disunity and disagreement. Allah The Almighty Says (what means): 

{Allah Has Promised those who have believed among you and done righteous deeds that He Will surely Grant them succession [to authority] upon the earth just as He Granted it to those before them and that He Will surely Establish for them [therein] their religion which He Has Preferred for them and that He Will surely Substitute for them, after their fear, security, [for] they worship Me, not associating anything with Me. But whoever disbelieves after that - then those are the defiantly disobedient.} [Quran 24:55]

source: islamweb.net