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Friday 1 November 2024

Avoid Three Traits Before you die to ensure a place in Paradise

It is desire of every true believer to be blessed with an abode in the Paradise / Jannah when this worldly life ends and the eternal life begins. But it is not a easy thing to dream of because there are many traits that one must ensure to possess so as to have a ticket for Jannah.

We have been sharing many Hadiths attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about cautions and things to be avoided, specially when it comes to one's character traits and qualities. Today we share a Hadith, in which the Prophet (ﷺ) identifies three qualities a person should avoid to ensure their place in Paradise. Each quality represents a harmful aspect that not only affects the individual but also impacts others and society.

This Hadith is mentioned Jami` at-Tirmidhi Book 21: The Book on Military Expeditions/ كتاب السير عن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم / (21 -  Chapter: What Has Been Related About Ghulul / باب مَا جَاءَ فِي الْغُلُولِ/ as Hadith number # 1572:

Narrated by Thawban:

Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: "Whoever dies and he is free of three: Kibr (Pride), Ghulul, and debt, he will enter paradise."

* There are narrations on this topic from Abu Hurairah and Zaid bin Khalid Al-Juhni

Arabic Text:
حَدَّثَنِي أَبُو رَجَاءٍ، قُتَيْبَةُ بْنُ سَعِيدٍ حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو عَوَانَةَ، عَنْ قَتَادَةَ، عَنْ سَالِمِ بْنِ أَبِي الْجَعْدِ، عَنْ ثَوْبَانَ، قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ‏ "‏ مَنْ مَاتَ وَهُوَ بَرِيءٌ مِنْ ثَلاَثٍ الْكِبْرِ وَالْغُلُولِ وَالدَّيْنِ دَخَلَ الْجَنَّةَ ‏"‏ ‏.‏ وَفِي الْبَابِ عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ وَزَيْدِ بْنِ خَالِدٍ الْجُهَنِيِّ ‏.‏
GradeSahih (Darussalam)

Let us explain this Hadith in more detail, first by understanding the the three traits mentioned in the Hadith:
  • Kibr (Pride):
    • Kibr refers to arrogance or an inflated sense of self-worth, where a person sees themselves as superior to others. It is a form of pride that makes one disregard the truth and look down on people, which contradicts humility—a core value in Islam.
    • The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) taught that pride prevents a person from fully submitting to Allah because it promotes self-centeredness and diminishes humility. Allah warns against pride in the Qur'an, as it distances one from His mercy and guidance.
  • Ghulul (Dishonesty or Embezzlement):
    • Ghulul involves dishonesty, especially regarding public or entrusted wealth. In the context of this hadith, it refers to acts of embezzlement, misuse of public funds, or betraying trusts, whether in personal, social, or financial matters.
    • Ghulul is a serious offense in Islam because it harms the community and undermines trust. It’s considered a form of stealing and corruption, which Islam strongly condemns. A person guilty of ghulul will be held accountable, as it represents a betrayal of Allah’s trust and the rights of others.
  • Debt:
    • Debt in Islam is treated with great caution. Islam encourages borrowing only out of necessity and emphasizes repayment. The Prophet (ﷺ) discouraged people from taking on unnecessary debt because it can lead to stress, irresponsibility, and hardship on the borrower and their family if left unpaid.
    • While taking on debt is permissible when needed, dying with unpaid debt, especially without planning for repayment, is seen as a serious matter. The Prophet (ﷺ) emphasized clearing one’s debts, as unresolved debt can prevent a soul from finding peace after death.
Lessons from the Hadith
  • The Importance of Humility: Humility is a foundational value in Islam. To be free from pride means approaching others with respect and seeing oneself as equal before Allah. Avoiding pride allows a person to submit fully to Allah, recognize their limitations, and embrace the guidance of Islam.
  • The Importance of Integrity and Trustworthiness: This hadith emphasizes the importance of honesty and trustworthiness, especially regarding wealth and public property. Islam considers a trustworthy character essential to faith, as dishonesty damages relationships, weakens communities, and erodes societal integrity.
  • The Importance of Responsibility with Financial Matters: The hadith encourages responsibility in financial matters, especially avoiding unnecessary debt. If debt is necessary, it should be taken on with the intention of repayment. This teaches accountability and the need to manage one’s resources wisely.
  • Paving the Way to Paradise: This hadith highlights that avoiding these three qualities helps secure a place in Paradise, as they are significant barriers to a good standing with Allah. Purifying oneself from pride, dishonesty, and unresolved debt can lead to a more peaceful, fulfilling life and a positive standing in the Hereafter.
Practical Application
  • Cultivating Humility: Muslims can practice humility by recognizing the worth of others, acknowledging their own faults, and constantly thanking Allah for His blessings. Reflecting on the greatness of Allah and one's own dependence on Him is an effective way to combat pride.
  • Upholding Honesty and Integrity: Whether in personal relationships, business dealings, or handling community resources, one should be truthful and fair. Avoiding even minor acts of dishonesty is essential to maintaining a trustworthy character and fulfilling one’s duty as a Muslim.
  • Managing Debt Wisely: Muslims are encouraged to avoid unnecessary borrowing and to live within their means. If taking on debt, they should plan for repayment and prioritize clearing debts to avoid burdening their families or communities after their passing.
This hadith thus reminds us that humility, honesty, and responsible financial management are critical components of a strong, ethical Muslim character. By avoiding pride, dishonesty, and unpaid debt, one upholds values that protect both the individual and society, paving the way to Allah’s mercy and ultimately Paradise. These qualities embody the essence of Islam: submission to Allah, compassion for others, and integrity in personal and public matters.
May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Warning and Cautions for more Hadiths on the subject.

For more hadiths on varying subjects, refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Source of HadithHelp taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Wednesday 30 October 2024

Metaphoric use of 360 human body joints to correlate good deeds as "charity" for each joint to attain protection of Allah

Today we share a hadith the content of which have recently been authenticated by modern science. The hadith refers the number joints in the human body as a metaphor whereby the movement of  joints in the human body engaged in good deeds will benefit a believer on the Day of Judgment, or even otherwise in this world too.

As per scientific research, the human body is an amazing machine with 270 bones at birth, which decreases to 206 as we age as parts of our bones fuse together. Thus, there are 360 joints in our body, connecting one bone to another. Mention of 360 joints in a hadith which dates back to more than 1400 years back make men of wisdom wonder how could Prophet Muhammad ﷺ had known a fact which has only  recently been discovered? This clearly shows that whatever Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said was in fact from the Divine knowledge provided to him so that people of later time when would discover this fact would know that Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was really a messenger of God, for otherwise a precise guesswork could not have been so accurate.

This Hadith is quoted in Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim: Book 12 The Book of Zakat / كتاب الزكاة /  Chapter 16: The word charity (Sadaqah) may apply to all good deeds Ma'ruf / باب بَيَانِ أَنَّ اسْمَ الصَّدَقَةِ يَقَعُ عَلَى كُلِّ نَوْعٍ مِنَ الْمَعْرُوفِ / as Hadith number # 2722 as under:

'A'isha reported Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) as saying:

"Every one of the children of Adam has been created with three hundred and sixty joints; so he who declares the Glory of Allah, praises Allah, declares Allah to be One, Glorifies Allah, and seeks forgiveness from Allah, and removes stone, or thorn, or bone from people's path, and enjoins what is good and forbids from evil, to the number of those three hundred and sixty joints, will walk that day having saved himself from the Fire."

Abu Taubah said: "Perhaps he said: 'Will reach the evening.'"

Arabic Text:
حَدَّثَنَا حَسَنُ بْنُ عَلِيٍّ الْحُلْوَانِيُّ، حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو تَوْبَةَ الرَّبِيعُ بْنُ نَافِعٍ، حَدَّثَنَا مُعَاوِيَةُ، - يَعْنِي ابْنَ سَلاَّمٍ - عَنْ زَيْدٍ، أَنَّهُ سَمِعَ أَبَا سَلاَّمٍ، يَقُولُ حَدَّثَنِي عَبْدُ اللَّهِ بْنُ فَرُّوخَ، أَنَّهُ سَمِعَ عَائِشَةَ، تَقُولُ إِنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏"‏ إِنَّهُ خُلِقَ كُلُّ إِنْسَانٍ مِنْ بَنِي آدَمَ عَلَى سِتِّينَ وَثَلاَثِمَائَةِ مَفْصِلٍ فَمَنْ كَبَّرَ اللَّهَ وَحَمِدَ اللَّهَ وَهَلَّلَ اللَّهَ وَسَبَّحَ اللَّهَ وَاسْتَغْفَرَ اللَّهَ وَعَزَلَ حَجَرًا عَنْ طَرِيقِ النَّاسِ أَوْ شَوْكَةً أَوْ عَظْمًا عَنْ طَرِيقِ النَّاسِ وَأَمَرَ بِمَعْرُوفٍ أَوْ نَهَى عَنْ مُنْكَرٍ عَدَدَ تِلْكَ السِّتِّينَ وَالثَّلاَثِمِائَةِ السُّلاَمَى فَإِنَّهُ يَمْشِي يَوْمَئِذٍ وَقَدْ زَحْزَحَ نَفْسَهُ عَنِ النَّارِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏ قَالَ أَبُو تَوْبَةَ وَرُبَّمَا قَالَ ‏"‏ يُمْسِي ‏"‏ ‏.‏

This hadith emphasizes the importance of gratitude, worship, and performing small acts of goodness, which collectively serve as a form of "charity" for each joint in our bodies, helping us attain Allah’s protection and salvation.

Explanation of the Hadith
"Every one of the children of Adam has been created with three hundred and sixty joints":

This part highlights the human body’s complexity and Allah’s remarkable creation. The mention of "joints" suggests that each movement, capability, and function in our body is a blessing from Allah, and we should acknowledge and thank Him for it.

Good Deeds as Charity for Each Joint:

The hadith mentions various good deeds, such as glorifying Allah, seeking forgiveness, and removing harmful objects from people’s paths, as acts of gratitude or "charity" for each joint.

These acts show a wide variety of ways to show thanks to Allah: through dhikr (remembrance of Allah), helping others, promoting good, and discouraging harm. Performing these good deeds symbolically "pays" for the blessings in our body.

"Will walk that day having saved himself from the Fire":

By consistently engaging in good deeds throughout the day, a person earns Allah’s mercy and protection from Hellfire. This serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a steady, conscious connection with Allah and living a life of kindness, worship, and integrity.

The phrase "will reach the evening" (or "reach the morning") suggests that a person who performs these acts consistently can expect Allah's protection and blessings for that day.

Lessons from the Hadith:
  • Gratitude for Allah’s Blessings: Every joint, muscle, and limb is a gift from Allah, enabling us to live a full life. Expressing gratitude through good deeds acknowledges the blessings Allah has bestowed upon us.
  • The Variety of Good Deeds: The deeds mentioned include both acts of worship (like dhikr) and social good (like removing harmful objects from the path). Islam values worship as well as practical acts that benefit society, emphasizing a well-rounded life that serves both spiritual and social dimensions.
  • Daily Habit of Goodness: This hadith encourages forming a habit of engaging in small acts of goodness every day. Consistency in these actions helps a person remain conscious of Allah, fostering mindfulness and purpose.
  • Protection from the Fire: Through these regular acts of worship and service, we seek Allah's mercy and protection from Hellfire. This shows that even small acts, done sincerely and consistently, have the power to contribute to our ultimate salvation.
  • Positive Social Impact: Acts like "removing a stone, thorn, or bone from people’s path" symbolize the importance of making life easier and safer for others, reinforcing the social responsibility Islam places on individuals to ensure community well-being.
Application in Daily Life:
  • Consistent Dhikr and Worship: Reciting SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah), Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah), La ilaha illallah (There is no god but Allah), and seeking forgiveness daily can fulfill part of our gratitude to Allah and strengthen our relationship with Him.
  • Engaging in Small Acts of Kindness: Small acts like picking up trash, smiling, or lending a hand are easy ways to fulfill the spirit of this hadith. They remind us that acts of kindness, no matter how small, are valuable.
  • Enjoining Good and Forbidding Evil: Encouraging others to do good and discouraging wrongdoing (in a kind and wise manner) aligns with the teachings of this hadith and helps establish a supportive, positive community environment.
Thus, this hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of gratitude, not only through prayer and worship but also through small acts of kindness that benefit others. It teaches us that each part of our body deserves thanks, which we can fulfill through conscious acts of goodness throughout the day. Ultimately, this path of gratitude, worship, and kindness brings us closer to Allah’s mercy and protection from the Fire, emphasizing that consistent good deeds, however small, carry immense value in Islam.

Remember, on the Day of Judgement, each joint of our body will speak the way it was used by us - whether for good or otherwise. So let us move our body parts for performance of good only, lest on that fateful day we have our joints speaking against us and how we used them to commit sins.
May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our exclusive reference page Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about As Salat for more Sunnah and Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad exclusive to As Salat.

Please refer to our exclusive reference page Etiquettes taught by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for more etiquettes attributed to Prophet Muhammad.

You may refer to our reference: page: Supplications attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for more prophetic supplications

Please refer to our reference page: Oft asked Queries from Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for more Hadiths on the subject


Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ  for more Hadiths on the General Subjects.


Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Saum - Fasting in Ramadan for more Hadiths on the subject

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Warning and Cautions for more Hadiths on the subject

Please refer to our reference page: Collections of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Rewards for more Hadiths on the subject

Please refer to our reference page: Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ related to Muslim Women  for more Hadiths on the status of women in Islam.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadith e Qudsi (حدیثِ قُدسی) attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ  for more Hadith e Qudsi.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Hajj – the Fifth Pillar of Islam to know more about Hadiths related to Hajj.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Sabr / Patience to read more Hadiths on the subject.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to read more Sunnah attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

Please refer to our reference page: Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Self-Reliance with Dignity and Value of Honest Labour to read more related Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

For more hadiths on varying subjects, refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Source of HadithHelp taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Tuesday 29 October 2024

Prophetic advice for the prayer leaders

Islam is a very simple religion requiring no pomp and show for its propagation or during its various rituals including the daily five timely Salat / prayer, specially in the masjid. It is generally expected of able bodied and adult believers to offer their prayer in the masjid in congregation led by an imam. Since men of all ages attend the masjid for prayers, it is the duty of the imams not to recite longer verses from Qur'an for many old believers or even some with disabilities may not be able for long.

Cognizant of this fact, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ always advised the prayer leaders to keep the recitation of the Qur'an during the prayer as short as possible for the ease of those who cannot stand for long. 

This Prophetic advice is mentioned in Hadith as shared in Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 10: Call to Prayers (Adhaan) /كتاب الأذان/ Chapter 62:  When offering Salat (prayer) alone, one can prolong the Salat as much as one wishes / باب إِذَا صَلَّى لِنَفْسِهِ فَلْيُطَوِّلْ مَا شَاءَ ) as Hadith 703, given herein under:

Narrated by Abu Huraira:

Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "If anyone of you leads the people in the prayer, he should shorten it for amongst them are the weak, the sick and the old; and if anyone among your prays alone then he may prolong (the prayer) as much as he wishes. "

Arabic Text:
حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ اللَّهِ بْنُ يُوسُفَ، قَالَ أَخْبَرَنَا مَالِكٌ، عَنْ أَبِي الزِّنَادِ، عَنِ الأَعْرَجِ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ إِذَا صَلَّى أَحَدُكُمْ لِلنَّاسِ فَلْيُخَفِّفْ، فَإِنَّ مِنْهُمُ الضَّعِيفَ وَالسَّقِيمَ وَالْكَبِيرَ، وَإِذَا صَلَّى أَحَدُكُمْ لِنَفْسِهِ فَلْيُطَوِّلْ مَا شَاءَ ‏"‏‏.‏

This hadith emphasizes consideration, compassion, and empathy for others during congregational prayer. It teaches the importance of balancing devotion in worship with sensitivity to the needs of the congregation.

Explanation of the Hadith:
"If anyone of you leads the people in the prayer, he should shorten it":

The person leading the prayer (imam) is advised to make the prayer brief enough to accommodate everyone, recognizing that the congregation is diverse and may include individuals who cannot manage long prayers.

The imam’s role is to lead the congregation in worship, and with that comes the responsibility of keeping everyone’s needs in mind. Prolonging the prayer can lead to hardship for some, diminishing the purpose and harmony of collective worship.

"For amongst them are the weak, the sick, and the elderly":

The hadith highlights specific groups in the congregation: those who may be physically weak, those who are ill, and the elderly, who may have less stamina. Prolonged standing, bowing, and prostration can be challenging or even harmful for such individuals.

This hadith underscores the inclusive nature of Islam, showing that religious duties should not cause undue hardship to believers, especially those with physical limitations. The imam’s duty is to ensure the prayer is manageable and comfortable for all.

However, the Hadith also advises believers who are offering prayer by themselves and alone to prolong recitation of Qur'an as much as they can endure. "If anyone among you prays alone, then he may prolong (the prayer) as much as he wishes":

When praying individually, a person has the freedom to extend the prayer according to their ability and desire for devotion. There is no restriction on the length of personal prayer, as the individual is responsible only for themselves.

This part of the hadith respects and encourages a person’s desire to connect with Allah in a more prolonged manner, allowing them to engage deeply in worship without considering others’ needs.

Lessons from the Hadith:
  • Consideration and Compassion for Others: This hadith teaches that Islam values empathy and consideration for others. When leading communal worship, Muslims are encouraged to think about those who may have limitations and to be mindful of them.
  • Moderation in Worship: Islam emphasizes balance and moderation. This hadith reminds us that acts of worship should not cause excessive difficulty, as the goal of worship is to bring ease, peace, and connection with Allah, not to burden anyone.
  • Personal Freedom in Worship: Islam provides flexibility for individual worship. While congregational prayers require accommodation for others, individual worship can be prolonged as desired. This shows that while communal responsibilities prioritize others, personal worship is a private matter between the individual and Allah.
  • Responsibilities of the Imam: The imam has a duty to ensure that the congregational prayer is inclusive and comfortable for everyone. This responsibility requires not only leadership but also sensitivity and compassion.
  • Accessibility in Worship: This hadith reflects the accessibility of Islamic worship, accommodating the diverse needs of all participants. Whether young, elderly, healthy, or unwell, everyone should be able to participate in congregational prayer without hardship.
Practical Application:
  • Shortening Congregational Prayers: The imam can choose shorter verses or chapters from the Qur'an to recite in congregational prayers and avoid prolonging the prayer unnecessarily.
  • Personal Worship at One’s Own Pace: Individuals who wish to prolong their prayers or add extra voluntary prayers (nawafil) can do so in their personal worship without concern for others’ limitations.
  • Community Sensitivity: Muslims are encouraged to be mindful of the needs and circumstances of others during any communal activity, especially worship, which is meant to be an experience of unity and ease.
This hadith beautifully balances the value of devotion with the importance of empathy. The Prophet (ﷺ) teaches that while individual worship can be extended as desired, communal worship should be accessible to all. This compassionate approach ensures that Islam’s acts of worship remain inclusive, accommodating the varying needs of the Muslim community.
May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our exclusive reference page Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about As Salat for more Sunnah and Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad exclusive to As Salat.

For more hadiths on varying subjects, refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo: Pixabay| Source of HadithHelp taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Monday 28 October 2024

God do not give me more

The caption of the post may not make you feel good as it may give an impression that I am a thankless person and not asking more form the God. But when you would read the why, you may perhaps go along with me. Do tell me if I was wrong in saying so.

It is just a prayer that I came across and am sharing it with my friends for it has very deep meaning and long lasting effects on our lives. The prayer goes like this:

My dear God
Do not give me a heart that does not mourns the sufferings of the mankind
Do not give me strength with which I weaken others
Do not give me wealth with which I consider others poorer than I
Do not give me knowledge that remains hidden inside me
Do not give me wealth the glitter of which obscures the hungry faces around me
Do not take me to such elevations from where I cannot see the depth of ignorance
Do not give a position of authority which  I may use to suppress others

O God do not give me more if I have a heart that does not throb for others

The list can be expanded to an endless end but our earnest desires may not come to an end. While keep try to find more wishes, we may supplicate as given hereinunder: 

My dear God
Give me all that which I can share with others
And become equal to others

Do I make my point in sharing this prayer?

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎)  help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

For more invocations, please refer to our reference page: Selected Invocations / Dua " دُعا " from the Qur'anYou may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.
Photo

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Sunday 20 October 2024

Divine caution for the Niggards

No two human beings are born equal, whether is physical appearance or gifted with adequate means of sustenance. For those who have been blessed with countless Divine bounties are Divinely expected to help the poor and the have Nots. Likewise the Have Nots are expected to bear the Divine test of hunger and live on meagre means of sustenance, yet keep their hands tied up and not begging or resorting to illegal means of getting money. If this system works as per Divine dictates, everyone would be contended and living happily. But this does not happen, specially in case of the rich who keep their coffers closed and continue to amass more and more money.  

Such miser and niggards are the subject of 180th verse Surah 3. Al-i'Imran and being discussed in this post:

وَلَا يَحۡسَبَنَّ الَّذِيۡنَ يَبۡخَلُوۡنَ بِمَاۤ اٰتٰٮهُمُ اللّٰهُ مِنۡ فَضۡلِهٖ هُوَ خَيۡـرًا لَّهُمۡ​ؕ بَلۡ هُوَ شَرٌّ لَّهُمۡ​ؕ سَيُطَوَّقُوۡنَ مَا بَخِلُوۡا بِهٖ يَوۡمَ الۡقِيٰمَةِ ​ؕ وَ لِلّٰهِ مِيۡرَاثُ السَّمٰوٰتِ وَالۡاَرۡضِ​ؕ وَاللّٰهُ بِمَا تَعۡمَلُوۡنَ خَبِيۡرٌ
(3:180) Those who are niggardly about what Allah has granted them out of His bounty think that niggardliness is good for them; it is bad for them. What they were niggardly about will turn into a halter round their necks on the Day of Resurrection. To Allah belongs the inheritance of the heavens and the earth; and Allah is well aware of what you do.

This verse applies to any people who refuse to come forward to support God’s message with that which God has bestowed on them of His bounty. They may think that their niggardliness serves their interests by protecting their wealth, keeping it in their hands, rather than spend it for a good purpose. It emphasizes:
  • Condemnation of Greed and Hoarding: The verse speaks to those who hoard wealth, thinking it benefits them. Allah warns that this attitude is actually detrimental and harmful.
  • Consequences in the Hereafter: The wealth they withheld will become a source of punishment. The phrase "Their necks will be encircled by what they withheld" indicates that their greed and miserliness will become a burden and cause them suffering in the Hereafter.
  • Reminder of Allah’s Sovereignty: The verse reminds that ultimately, everything in the heavens and the earth belongs to Allah. What people have is a temporary gift from Allah, and it should be used in ways that earn His pleasure.
Related Hadiths
There are several hadiths that align with and emphasize the warning given in this verse:
  • Hadith on Withholding Zakat: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
"Whoever is made wealthy by Allah and does not pay the zakat of his wealth, then on the Day of Resurrection his wealth will be made like a bald-headed poisonous snake with two black spots over the eyes. The snake will encircle his neck and bite his cheeks and say, 'I am your wealth, I am your treasure.'" (Sahih Al-Bukhari)

This hadith directly parallels the message of the verse, showing that those who withhold the obligatory charity (zakat) will face severe consequences, and their wealth will become a source of torment in the Hereafter.
  • Hadith on Generosity and Wealth: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also said:
"Wealth is not diminished by giving in charity." (Sahih Muslim)

This hadith complements the verse by reminding believers that giving does not reduce one's wealth; rather, it is a means of purification and blessing. Unlike those who hoard wealth, those who spend it in the way of Allah are actually securing their reward in the Hereafter.

You may also like to understand the Concept of Charity in Islam from our Reference page: Selected verses from Qur'an on importance of charity in Islam.

An eminent scholar and exegete of Qur'an Yusuf Ali Explains:
By an apt metaphor the miser is told that his wealth or the other gifts which he hoarded will cling round his neck and do him no good. He will wish he could get rid of them, but he will not be able to do so. According to the Biblical phrase in another connection they will hang like a millstone round his neck (Matt. xviii. 6). The metaphor here is fuller. He hugged his wealth or his gifts about him. They will become like a heavy collar, the badge of slavery, round his neck. They will be tied tight and twisted, and they will give him pain and anguish instead of pleasure. Cf. also xvii. 13.

Another metaphor is now introduced. Material wealth or property is only called ours during our short life here. So all gifts are ours in trust only; they ultimately revert to Allah, to Whom belongs all that is in the heavens or on earth.

Lessons and Implications
  • Warning Against Misuse of Wealth: The verse and hadiths collectively warn against greed, miserliness, and withholding wealth, especially when it comes to obligatory acts like zakat.
  • Encouragement of Generosity: Allah encourages generosity, and those who are generous will find their reward with Him. Miserliness, on the other hand, brings harm both in this world and in the Hereafter.
  • Accountability: The verse and hadith emphasize that everything people possess is a trust from Allah, and they will be accountable for how they use or misuse it.
In summary, Surah Al-Imran (3:180), in light of hadith, teaches that hoarding wealth and refusing to spend for the sake of Allah is harmful, and those who do so will face punishment. It encourages believers to be generous and fulfill their obligations, knowing that Allah is fully aware of their actions and will reward or punish accordingly.

We should remember that everything shall ultimately return to Allah as His inheritance because it really belongs to Him. Whatever is in the possession of any of His creatures is a temporary trust. Everyone in every case shall be dis-possessed of the property and wealth that he calls his own during the short life here and that shall ultimately return to our Creator, the real Owner. Therefore the wise one is he who generously spends Allah's property in Allah's way and the foolish one is he who tries to hoard it.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎)  help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may like to read more posts on similar theme in our series of posts related to: Ref Page: Divine Court Rules

For more Selected Verses, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'anYou may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.
Photo | Resource References: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4Input has also been taken from ChatGPT for expanding the meaning of the verse

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of the Qur'ān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  In addition, references of other sources which have been explored have also been given above. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also join our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Saturday 19 October 2024

A death no believer would ever desire

It is the desire of every believer to die an honourable death. But, unknown to many, there are some pre-requisites for a death which we all long for. Certainly the best death is that of a martyr who lays down his life defending his faith and preserving the life and property of his Muslim brethren. In fact Jihad for defending one's identity as a true believer is the best course for a Muslim to adopt. But if someone who is able bodied and still defies or hides back in order to save him form the harshness of the battle has to ponder over the state of his faith.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has warned such believers in a hadith attributed to him and narrated by Abu Huraira (رضي الله عنه), who states:

The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: "Whoever dies without having fought in the cause of Allah or having the desire to fight in the cause of Allah will die while having one of the qualities of hypocrisy."

This hadith highlights the importance of sincerity, commitment, and readiness to serve the cause of Allah, particularly in the context of defending the faith and striving in the path of Allah (jihad fi sabilillah). It also warns against complacency or apathy towards one’s responsibilities as a believer.

Explanation of the Hadith:
  • "Whoever dies without having fought in the cause of Allah": 
    • Fighting in the cause of Allah (jihad fi sabilillah) refers to striving to defend Islam and Muslims, protecting the faith, and upholding justice. In the context of the Prophet’s (ﷺ) time, it often meant participating in battles to protect the Muslim community from aggression or oppression.
    • However, this concept is broader and includes any form of sincere struggle or effort for the sake of Allah, such as spreading the truth, defending the oppressed, or working to establish justice and righteousness.

  • "Or having the desire to fight in the cause of Allah":
    • The hadith also emphasizes the intention or desire to fight in the cause of Allah, even if one does not physically engage in combat. This means that a Muslim should possess the inner commitment and readiness to defend and uphold the truth when needed. It reflects an attitude of responsibility and sincerity toward one's faith. 
    • The intention is crucial because circumstances may not always allow a person to physically engage in combat or active struggle (e.g., due to age, health, or lack of opportunity). However, maintaining the sincere intention to act if the need arises is essential. 
  • "Will die while having one of the qualities of hypocrisy":
    • The hadith warns that someone who lacks both the action and the intention of striving in the cause of Allah possesses a characteristic of hypocrisy (nifaq). Hypocrisy in this sense refers to a person claiming to be a Muslim while lacking the sincerity, commitment, and readiness to defend or uphold their faith.
    • This does not mean that the person is a complete hypocrite (munafiq) but that they possess one of the traits associated with hypocrisy. It indicates a weakness or deficiency in their faith, as a true believer should have a sense of duty and commitment to their religion.

Lessons from the Hadith:
  • Importance of Intention: The hadith highlights the significance of intention in Islam. Even if one is unable to participate in physical jihad, having the sincere intention to serve and defend the cause of Allah is essential. This intention is a reflection of one's commitment and sincerity toward their faith.
  • Striving for the Cause of Allah: Jihad fi sabilillah encompasses various forms of striving, not limited to combat alone. It can include efforts such as educating others about Islam, spreading goodness, standing up for justice, and helping the oppressed. Muslims should be ready to engage in such efforts within their capacity.
  • Avoiding Complacency: The hadith serves as a reminder to avoid apathy and complacency in religious duties. True faith requires readiness to act and serve the cause of Allah whenever necessary. Neglecting this sense of duty reflects a weakness in faith that resembles the behavior of hypocrites.
  • Sincerity and Self-Reflection: The hadith encourages self-reflection. Believers should assess their level of commitment and sincerity. Do they possess the desire to support and defend their faith, or are they indifferent? Sincere faith involves more than just words; it requires the willingness to act when necessary.
Context and Broader Application of the Hadith:
While the hadith speaks specifically about the readiness for physical jihad, its broader application is relevant for Muslims in all times and circumstances. Muslims today may not face the same situation as in the Prophet’s (ﷺ) time, where physical defense of the Muslim community was often necessary. However, the principle remains:
  • Muslims should strive to uphold justice, truth, and the values of Islam in their societies, using the means available to them (e.g., advocacy, charitable work, spreading knowledge, or supporting the oppressed).
  • Maintaining a sincere and active intention to serve the cause of Allah, whether through physical, social, or intellectual means, is essential to preserving and demonstrating true faith.
In the light of above explanation, this hadith emphasizes the importance of being sincere and committed to defending and promoting the cause of Allah. It warns against the danger of hypocrisy that arises when a person is indifferent to the needs of their faith community. True believers should have an inner readiness and intention to act for the sake of Allah when needed, showing sincerity and dedication to their faith.
May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Warning and Cautions for more Hadiths on the subject

For more hadiths on varying subjects, refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Source of HadithHelp taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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