Lower your voice to respect the believers sitting in for I'tikaf (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

The last ten days are full of mercy for all believers, specially for those sitting in the masjids for I'tikaf, the voluntary seclusion and worship Allah be even sacrificing the comfort of their homes. We must respect these blessed believers and provide them conducive environment so they are able to concentrate fully in their worship with unhindered and undisturbed, and extreme devotion.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ made a special request to people outside the secluded chamber or portion of the masjid from reciting Qur'an or prayer in a lower tone so that worship of those in I'tikaf is not disturbed. 

This Hadith is mentioned in Sunan Abi Dawud (Book # 5  Prayer (Kitab Al-Salat): Voluntary Prayers / كتاب التطوع / Chapter # 466 Raising One's Voice With The Recitation During The Night Prayer / باب ي رَفْعِ الصَّوْتِ بِالْقِرَاءَةِ فِي صَلاَةِ اللَّيْلِ as Hadith number # 1332, quoted herein under:

Narrated AbuSa'id al-Khudri:

The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) retired to the mosque. He heard them (the people) reciting the Qur'an in a loud voice. He removed the curtain and said: Lo! every one of you is calling his Lord quietly. One should not trouble the other and one should not raise the voice in recitation or in prayer over the voice of the other.

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا الْحَسَنُ بْنُ عَلِيٍّ، حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ الرَّزَّاقِ، أَخْبَرَنَا مَعْمَرٌ، عَنْ إِسْمَاعِيلَ بْنِ أُمَيَّةَ، عَنْ أَبِي سَلَمَةَ، عَنْ أَبِي سَعِيدٍ، قَالَ ‏:‏ اعْتَكَفَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم فِي الْمَسْجِدِ فَسَمِعَهُمْ يَجْهَرُونَ بِالْقِرَاءَةِ، فَكَشَفَ السِّتْرَ وَقَالَ ‏:‏ ‏"‏ أَلاَ إِنَّ كُلَّكُمْ مُنَاجٍ رَبَّهُ فَلاَ يُؤْذِيَنَّ بَعْضُكُمْ بَعْضًا، وَلاَ يَرْفَعْ بَعْضُكُمْ عَلَى بَعْضٍ فِي الْقِرَاءَةِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏ أَوْ قَالَ ‏:‏ ‏"‏ فِي الصَّلاَةِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

Grade: Sahih (Al-Albani)

Respecting others during I'tikaf is essential to maintaining the sanctity and purpose of this spiritual retreat. I'tikaf is a time when a Muslim isolates themselves from worldly distractions, focusing on worship, reflection, and strengthening their relationship with Allah. As I'tikaf is a deeply spiritual activity, it requires a person to maintain not only a good relationship with Allah but also to treat fellow worshippers with respect and kindness.

Here are several ways to show respect to others during I'tikaf:

• Respecting the Space and Environment:
• Quiet and Peaceful Environment: Since I'tikaf is typically observed in a mosque, it is important to maintain a peaceful and quiet environment for both yourself and others. Avoid loud conversations, unnecessary noise, and anything that may disturb fellow worshippers. This allows everyone to focus on their worship and reflection.
• Proper Behavior: Be mindful of your behavior in the mosque. Engage in acts of worship, prayer, and reflection, but avoid anything that may cause discomfort or disturbance to others. This includes avoiding unnecessary talking, playing with your phone, or engaging in actions that may distract others from their worship.
• Being Considerate of Others’ Needs:
• Sharing Space: If you are observing I'tikaf in a shared space, be considerate of others' need for privacy, comfort, and tranquility. Ensure you are not occupying excessive space or disturbing others' personal space during this time.
• Considerate Timing: Be mindful of others' prayer times and schedules, particularly when it comes to using communal areas for rest or food. Try to avoid interrupting others' worship or prayer by being in the way or taking up space at the wrong times.
• Avoiding Arguments or Disputes:
• Patience and Tolerance: During I'tikaf, you may be around a variety of individuals with different personalities, perspectives, and practices. It is important to exercise patience and tolerance. If any disagreements or conflicts arise, handle them calmly and respectfully, avoiding anger or harshness. Remember that I'tikaf is meant to purify the heart, and engaging in disputes can take away from the spiritual benefits.
• Being Humble: Maintaining humility is crucial in I'tikaf. Avoid any behavior that might show arrogance, superiority, or self-righteousness. Instead, focus on cultivating humility, being respectful to everyone regardless of their social status or background.
• Respecting Privacy:
• Respecting Personal Space: Some people may prefer solitude or quiet during I'tikaf to focus on personal reflection or worship. Respect their space and privacy, and avoid unnecessary interactions or intrusions.
• Avoiding Gossip or Negative Talk: It’s important to avoid engaging in gossip, backbiting, or speaking ill of others during I'tikaf. These negative behaviors harm the spiritual state of the person performing I'tikaf and can affect the peace and respect within the community. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, "Do not backbite each other" (Quran 49:12), which is a principle to adhere to, especially during I'tikaf.
• Maintaining Cleanliness:
• Respecting the Cleanliness of the Mosque: Keep the mosque clean and free from clutter. This includes picking up after yourself, disposing of trash properly, and maintaining a clean environment for all. It is also respectful to maintain personal cleanliness, such as performing ablutions regularly and keeping your space tidy.
• Caring for Shared Resources: If you're sharing food, drinks, or other communal resources during I'tikaf, be respectful and avoid wastage. Share generously but with consideration for others' needs, and ensure that resources are used appropriately.
• Helping and Supporting Fellow Worshippers:
• Offering Assistance: Be kind and helpful to others who may need assistance, whether it's helping with chores, sharing knowledge, or offering advice in a gentle and respectful manner. If someone is struggling with a particular aspect of worship or needs help with logistics during I'tikaf, offer your assistance with humility and kindness.
• Being Encouraging: Encourage others in their acts of worship, whether it's offering a kind word, assisting them in their study of the Quran, or reminding them of good deeds. Support each other in the pursuit of greater spirituality.
• Respecting the Imam and Religious Authorities:
• Following the Guidance of the Imam: If the mosque has an Imam or religious leader leading prayers or giving lectures, it is important to show respect for their guidance. Listen attentively to their sermons, advice, or any instructions given during I'tikaf, and follow their direction in a respectful manner.
• Seeking Knowledge with Respect: If you're engaging in religious discussions or seeking knowledge during I'tikaf, always approach the scholars, teachers, and fellow worshippers with respect, humility, and a desire for learning.
• Respecting the Time of I'tikaf:
• Avoiding Time-Wasting Activities: The purpose of I'tikaf is to focus on worship, prayer, reflection, and deepening your connection with Allah. Therefore, avoid wasting time on unnecessary conversations, watching media, or engaging in activities that distract you from the main goal of I'tikaf.
• Respecting Other People’s Worship Time: Be conscious of when others are engaged in worship or prayer. For instance, during the Taraweeh prayers, or while others are doing dhikr (remembrance of Allah), refrain from unnecessary conversation or movement in a way that could distract or disturb their focus.
• Being Mindful of the Heart: Since I'tikaf is about purifying the heart, ensure that your inner intentions toward others are sincere. Avoid harboring negative thoughts, jealousy, or pride against anyone. Approach your time in I'tikaf with a clean heart, seeking to improve yourself spiritually.

Respecting others during I'tikaf is crucial to maintaining the spiritual and communal harmony of the mosque and ensuring the purity of your worship. It requires mindfulness, humility, patience, and consideration for fellow worshippers. By following these guidelines, you contribute to a peaceful and respectful environment conducive to spiritual growth, both for yourself and others.  

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 Saum - Fasting in Ramadan 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 Hadith | Help 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.

Follow @IslamUltimate

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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The virtue of finding Laylat al-Qadr - the night better than thousand months while in I'tikaf

The month of Ramadan comes with bag overflowing with very many mercies of Allah for fasting during the thirty days of this sacred months is an exclusive form of worship of Allah. It is the month which Allah acknowledges the sacrifice made by the believers by abstaining from all otherwise Halal things during the duration of the fast during day solely to please Allah. And Allah never lets go the act of fasting believers and promises special rewards.

While all days and nights of Ramadan are special and each act of worship has its rewards multiplied by unimaginable times, the rewards during the last ten days, specially the odd nights carries special rewards, for during these odd nights comes a night, called Laylat al-Qadr (The night of Power) the rewards of worship during this night is promised to be better than worship of a thousand nights. And if one finds this night during I'tikaf, the rewards are innumerable.

In one of the Hadiths, Aishaؓ, revered wife of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ narrated: Allah's Messenger ﷺ used to practice I`tikaf in the last ten days of Ramadan, and used to say, “Look for the Night of Qadr in the last ten nights of the month of Ramadan. (Sahih Bukhari # 2020).

Finding Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree) while in I'tikaf (spiritual retreat) during Ramadan holds great significance in Islam. The night itself is described as being one of immense spiritual value, and engaging in I'tikaf during the last ten days of Ramadan increases the likelihood of witnessing it. The Qur'an and Hadith highlight the special virtues of Laylat al-Qadr, and I'tikaf provides an ideal environment for seeking it.

[Please read our earlier post on exegesis of Surah Al Qadr: Exegesis/tafsir of Surah Al Qadr ]

Virtues of Laylat al-Qadr:

• The Night of Great Value:
• Laylat al-Qadr is a night of immense spiritual reward. The Qur'an refers to it as a night better than a thousand months:
• Surah Al-Qadr (97:3): "The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months."
• This means that worship and good deeds performed on Laylat al-Qadr are rewarded as though they were performed for over 83 years, making it an opportunity for immense spiritual benefit.
• Revelation of the Qur'an: Laylat al-Qadr is the night on which the Qur'an was revealed. In Surah Al-Qadr (97:1), Allah says, "Indeed, We sent it [the Qur'an] down during the Night of Decree." This makes the night not just a time of great blessings but also of closeness to the message of Allah.
• Forgiveness of Sins:
• It is a night when Allah forgives the sins of those who seek His forgiveness sincerely. 
• The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: "Whoever prays during the Night of Decree with faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven." Sahih Muslim
• This makes Laylat al-Qadr a unique opportunity for repentance and spiritual renewal.

Virtue of I'tikaf During Ramadan:

I'tikaf is a practice where a person dedicates themselves to worship, prayer, and reflection, typically in the mosque, for a period of time during the last ten days of Ramadan. There are several reasons why I'tikaf during this period is especially virtuous, particularly when seeking Laylat al-Qadr:

• Increased Devotion and Focus:
• By entering into I'tikaf, a person completely isolates themselves from worldly distractions and focuses entirely on worship, prayer, Qur'an recitation, and dhikr (remembrance of Allah). This state of devotion creates a perfect environment to seek Laylat al-Qadr.
• Hadith (Sahih Bukhari): "The Prophet (ﷺ) used to perform I'tikaf in the last ten nights of Ramadan, seeking Laylat al-Qadr."
• Increased Chances of Finding Laylat al-Qadr:
• While the exact night of Laylat al-Qadr is unknown, it is believed to fall during one of the last ten odd nights of Ramadan (21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th). I'tikaf during these last ten nights maximizes the chances of encountering this blessed night.
• The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) used to intensify his worship during the last ten days, seeking Laylat al-Qadr. By being in the mosque and engaged in worship during this time, a person is more likely to experience the night and its blessings.
• Spiritual Purity and Cleansing:
• I'tikaf offers a unique chance for spiritual renewal. By focusing on worship and avoiding worldly activities, a person can purify their heart and mind, making them more receptive to the mercy and blessings of Laylat al-Qadr.
• Hadith: "Whoever performs I'tikaf in the last ten days of Ramadan with faith and hope for reward, all of their past sins will be forgiven." (Sahih Bukhari)
• This purifying effect of I'tikaf increases the reward one can attain by seeking Laylat al-Qadr during this time.
• Immense Reward for the Worshipper:
• The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasized that worship during I'tikaf, especially during the last ten days of Ramadan, brings great rewards. If a person spends their time in worship and devotion during I'tikaf, especially while seeking Laylat al-Qadr, they can attain the reward of a lifetime of worship.
• Hadith: "The one who observes I'tikaf is in prayer as long as they remain in the mosque, and the angels ask forgiveness for them." (Sahih Bukhari)
• Increased Knowledge and Reflection:
• I'tikaf also provides an opportunity for reflection, deepening one's knowledge of Islam, and engaging in supplication. It’s a time to strengthen one's connection to Allah, to seek His guidance, and to reflect on one's life and actions.
• The quiet and solitude of I'tikaf help foster an environment conducive to sincere supplication and supplication for forgiveness, as one asks for Allah's mercy and strives to improve their relationship with Him.

Combining the Virtues:

• I'tikaf during the last ten nights of Ramadan provides the perfect opportunity to catch Laylat al-Qadr, a night where worship holds the reward of a thousand months.
• By engaging in I'tikaf, you can increase your chances of witnessing Laylat al-Qadr while maximizing your worship, prayer, and supplication. The tranquility and focus of I'tikaf help make this period even more spiritually rewarding.
• Additionally, I'tikaf is a means of isolating oneself from worldly distractions, giving more time for acts of worship like Tahajjud (night prayer), Qur'an recitation, dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and dua (supplication) — all of which are highly recommended during Laylat al-Qadr.

In short, finding Laylat al-Qadr while in I'tikaf during Ramadan is one of the most spiritually enriching experiences a Muslim can seek. I'tikaf during the last ten nights enhances the likelihood of encountering the Night of Decree, which brings great spiritual rewards and forgiveness. The combination of sincere devotion, prayer, and purification through I'tikaf provides a powerful means to connect deeply with Allah, cleanse the soul, and attain the immense blessings associated with Laylat al-Qadr.

You may like to watch an insight as How to Catch Laylat al-Qadr and Maximize Its Rewards by eminent Muslim scholar Nouman Ali Khan, In the video the scholar talks about the importance of Laylat al-Qadr which is the most powerful night of the year and asks are you ready for it? He also breaks down the meaning of Surah Al-Qadr and the immense blessings of this night. He also emphasises on Why does the Quran call it ‘better than a thousand months’? What happens when angels descend to the earth? Why is your destiny for the next year decided on this night?

So my brothers and sisters in Islam, don’t miss out on the most significant night of Ramadan seek its rewards. Who knows we will find the next Ramadan in our lives or not. 

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 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: Collections of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Rewards 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 Hadith | Help 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.

Follow @IslamUltimate

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.

Read More

Fasting distances the believer from the fire of Hell by Seventy Years

Fasting is one such act of worship the reward of which is immensely promised by Allah, for it is for Allah that a believer abandons many things Haram upon him which are otherwise Halal to him in the ordinary life. We have already shared a number of hadiths attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about the rewards of fasting.

This Hadith is mentioned in Sahih Muslim  (Book 13: The Book of Fasting / كتاب  الصيام / Chapter 31:  The Virtue of Fasting for in the cause of Allah, for those who are able to without suffering any harm or neglecting other duties / باب فَضْلِ الصِّيَامِ فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ لِمَنْ يُطِيقُهُ بِلاَ ضَرَرٍ وَلاَ تَفْوِيتِ حَقٍّ ‏ / as Hadith 1153a, given herein under:

Abu Sa'id al Khudri (Allah be pleased with him) reported Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) as saying:

Every servant of Allah who observes fast for a day in the way of Allah, Allah would remove, because of this day, his face farther from the Fire (of Hell) to the extent of seventy years' distance.

Arabic Text:

وَحَدَّثَنَا مُحَمَّدُ بْنُ رُمْحِ بْنِ الْمُهَاجِرِ، أَخْبَرَنِي اللَّيْثُ، عَنِ ابْنِ الْهَادِ، عَنْ سُهَيْلِ بْنِ، أَبِي صَالِحٍ عَنِ النُّعْمَانِ بْنِ أَبِي عَيَّاشٍ، عَنْ أَبِي سَعِيدٍ الْخُدْرِيِّ، - رضى الله عنه - قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ "‏ مَا مِنْ عَبْدٍ يَصُومُ يَوْمًا فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ إِلاَّ بَاعَدَ اللَّهُ بِذَلِكَ الْيَوْمِ وَجْهَهُ عَنِ النَّارِ سَبْعِينَ خَرِيفًا ‏"‏ ‏.‏

This hadith underscores the immense reward and mercy Allah grants to those who fast sincerely in His way. 

Explanation of the Hadith:

• Fasting for the Sake of Allah: The key phrase here is "in the way of Allah." Fasting with sincerity for the sake of Allah—meaning with the intention of obeying Him and seeking His pleasure—brings a great reward. It’s not just about abstaining from food or drink; it is a complete act of devotion, including avoiding sinful actions and focusing on worship.
• Distance from Hellfire: The hadith mentions that for every day a person fasts, Allah will remove their face from the Fire of Hell by a distance of seventy years. This metaphorical distance illustrates the immense protection and reward Allah grants to those who fast sincerely in His way. It emphasizes that fasting is not just a temporary spiritual exercise but something that can have long-lasting, eternal effects—protecting the person from the torment of Hell.
• Seventy Years: The number seventy years in the hadith is a symbolic representation of a very long distance. It demonstrates the significance of fasting as an act of worship and its impact on a person’s eternal fate. The specific number may not be literal, but it conveys that the reward for fasting is immense.

This hadith reinforces the idea that fasting is not just about abstaining from food and drink but is a deeply spiritual act of devotion that brings immense protection from Hellfire. It purifies the soul, increases righteousness (taqwa), and aligns the believer with Allah’s mercy. By fasting sincerely for the sake of Allah, a person can hope for Allah’s immense reward—distancing them from the punishment of the Hellfire, as emphasized in both the Qur'an and the hadith.

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 Saum - Fasting in Ramadan 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 Hadith | Help 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.

Follow @IslamUltimate

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.

Read More

What is the reward of fasting for Allah's Pleasure?

Fasting (Sawm) is an act of worship observed by Muslims primarily during the month of Ramadan, although it can also be practiced at other times of the year. The purpose of fasting is to gain closeness to Allah, attain spiritual purification, and increase one’s self-discipline. The Qur'an and Hadith highlight both the spiritual and practical aspects of fasting and the immense reward for those who observe it sincerely.

Since a servant of Allah willingly opt to abstain for everything which are otherwise Halal (permissible) from dawn to dusk solely for the pleasure of Allah, an immense reward has been promised both in this world and the hereafter.

* Also read our exclusive post: What you really need to know to better benefit from fasting in the month of Ramadan

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in one of his hadiths has mentioned the Divine reward which elevates the spirits of the believers and act as an incentive to fast, not only restricted to compulsory fasting for the entire month in the month f Ramadan, but also otherwise as well.

This Hadith is mentioned in Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 56: Fighting for the Cause of Allah (Jihaad) / كتاب  الجهاد والسير / Chapter 36:  The superiority of observing Saum in Allah's Cause / باب  فَضْلِ الصَّوْمِ فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ / as Hadith 2840, given herein under:

Narrated  by Abu Sa`id:

I heard the Prophet (ﷺ) saying, "Indeed, anyone who fasts for one day for Allah's Pleasure, Allah will keep his face away from the (Hell) fire for (a distance covered by a journey of) seventy years."

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا إِسْحَاقُ بْنُ نَصْرٍ، حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ الرَّزَّاقِ، أَخْبَرَنَا ابْنُ جُرَيْجٍ، قَالَ أَخْبَرَنِي يَحْيَى بْنُ سَعِيدٍ، وَسُهَيْلُ بْنُ أَبِي صَالِحٍ، أَنَّهُمَا سَمِعَا النُّعْمَانَ بْنَ أَبِي عَيَّاشٍ، عَنْ أَبِي سَعِيدٍ ـ رضى الله عنه ـ قَالَ سَمِعْتُ النَّبِيَّ صلى الله عليه وسلم يَقُولُ ‏ "‏ مَنْ صَامَ يَوْمًا فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ بَعَّدَ اللَّهُ وَجْهَهُ عَنِ النَّارِ سَبْعِينَ خَرِيفًا ‏"‏‏.

This hadith, narrated by Abu Sa`id, is found in Sahih Muslim and it highlights the immense reward that Allah promises for those who fast for His pleasure. Before we expand the meaning of this hadith, let us see Why is fasting so significant?

Fasting holds a special status in Islam. As mentioned in other hadiths, fasting is an act that is done purely for Allah, and it is directly associated with Allah’s reward. Unlike other acts of worship, where people may engage in them for various reasons (e.g., public recognition, social approval), fasting is an act that is mostly hidden from others, making it purely for Allah's sight.

The hadith reassures Muslims that even a small sacrifice made for the sake of Allah—such as fasting for a single day—has immense benefits, including protection from Hellfire and an increased likelihood of entering Paradise.

The reward for fasting is beyond measure, and the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ spoke extensively about it in various sayings (hadith). Some of the most famous hadiths regarding the reward for fasting include:

• Hadith from Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim: “Whoever fasts during Ramadan with faith and seeking reward will have his past sins forgiven.” This hadith shows that fasting during Ramadan with sincerity can lead to the forgiveness of sins, provided it is done with a true desire for Allah's reward and not for mere ritual.
• Hadith from Sahih Muslim: “Every action of the son of Adam is for him, except fasting; it is for Me, and I will reward it. He gives up his food, drink, and desires for My sake. Fasting is a shield. When it is the day of fasting, he should not act in an obscene or ignorant manner. If someone fights or insults him, let him say: ‘I am fasting.’” This hadith emphasizes that fasting is particularly beloved to Allah, as it is done purely for His sake and is not for show. The reward for fasting is promised directly by Allah, and He will reward it in ways beyond human comprehension.
• Hadith from Sahih Bukhari: “In Paradise, there is a gate called Ar-Rayyan. On the Day of Judgment, those who used to fast will enter through it, and no one else will enter through it. It will be said, ‘Where are those who used to fast?’ They will stand up, and none will enter except them.” This hadith describes the exclusive reward for those who fast, with a special gate in Paradise reserved just for them. It emphasizes that fasting has a distinct and honorable reward in the Hereafter. 
• Hadith from Sahih Muslim: “There is nothing equal to fasting, for it is the shield of a believer. If you fast, you can be saved from the fire and granted entry into Paradise.” Fasting serves as a protective shield for a believer, keeping them away from harmful actions and sin. The reward is also tied to the eternal reward of Paradise. 

Fasting for Allah is an act of worship that helps purify the soul and develop a deeper sense of devotion. In the Qur'an, fasting is prescribed to attain righteousness (taqwa) and is an opportunity to gain Allah's mercy. The reward for fasting, as indicated in the hadiths, is immense. It includes the forgiveness of past sins, protection from the Hellfire, and a special place in Paradise reserved for the fasts. Ultimately, fasting is an act that is deeply valued by Allah and is rewarded in ways that transcend human understanding.

Let us now expand the meaning of this Hadith and the immense pleasure hidden in as a reward for the fasting believers.

Explanation:

"Anyone who fasts for one day for Allah's pleasure": This part of the hadith refers to a person who observes fasting with a sincere intention, purely for the sake of Allah. The key point here is that the fast must be for Allah’s pleasure—a person should not fast for show or for any worldly gain but solely to fulfill their religious duty and seek Allah’s reward.

"Allah will keep his face away from the (Hell) fire": The face is often mentioned as a symbol of the whole person in Islamic tradition. In this context, the hadith implies that the person will be protected from the torment of Hell in its entirety. The phrase emphasizes that fasting for Allah’s sake serves as a shield from the severe consequences of Hellfire.

"For (a distance covered by a journey of) seventy years": The reward is described in terms of distance, which is a metaphorical way of indicating the vastness of Allah's protection. Seventy years of travel is an immense distance, and this is to emphasize just how significant the reward is. It shows that fasting for one day brings about a protection from Hellfire so vast that it is as though a person’s distance from it is 70 years of journey. In other words, fasting not only protects a person from Hellfire but does so in a way that far exceeds the normal human sense of safety and protection.

The deeper meaning of this hadith:

• The importance of intention: The key to this reward lies in fasting for Allah's pleasure. If someone fasts with the intention of earning Allah’s favor and reward, it has a significant spiritual benefit. The hadith emphasizes that even one day of fasting, if done sincerely for Allah, can have such a powerful protective effect.
• The power of a single day of fasting: This hadith magnifies the impact of a single day of fasting. It suggests that fasting is so valuable in the sight of Allah that even if a person fasts for just one day, the protection from Hellfire is incredibly vast and significant. It is a reminder that even small acts of devotion, when done sincerely for Allah, carry great rewards.
• The reward is greater than the act itself: The reward of being kept away from the Hellfire for a distance of seventy years reflects the immense mercy and generosity of Allah. This hadith serves to encourage believers to engage in fasting, knowing that the act, though seemingly simple, brings about an unparalleled reward in the Hereafter.

The hadith thus, is a powerful reminder of the significance of fasting in Islam. Even fasting for one day with sincerity can have far-reaching rewards, such as protection from the torment of Hell. It illustrates Allah's mercy and the great spiritual benefits that come from sincere worship. Through fasting, Muslims not only seek Allah’s pleasure but also earn His protection and mercy, leading to salvation in the Hereafter.

Let us fast as much we can, not to tell others how pious and fearful of Allah we are, but to silently please Allah and expect the reward promised for us.

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 Saum - Fasting in Ramadan 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 Hadith | Help 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.

Follow @IslamUltimate

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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I’tikaf: Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ of retiring to Masjid for remembrance of Allah

The last ten days of the month of Ramadan are loaded with immense rewards and blessings of Muslims fasting all through this month. The ultimate comes in these last ten days when many a Muslim retire to the nearby masjid for remembrance of Allah observing I'tikaf " اعتكاف‎ " - an act of special form of worship exclusive to the month of Ramadan.

Read our exclusive post What is Itikaf and how it is Observed in Ramadan to know more about I'tikaf

The presence in the masjid while observing I'tikaf also allows the believers to be in the home of Allah and in the state of worship when Night of Qadr, A night better than the worship of a thousand months, takes place in the odd nights of the last ten days of the Ramadan.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to enter into state of I'tikaf all along his life and his wives also followed the suit and even continued to observe it even after the death of the revered Prophet of Allah. 

In a Hadith mentioned in Sahi Bukahri, `Aisha, revered wife of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has narrated:

The Prophet (ﷺ) used to practice I`tikaf in the last ten days of Ramadan till he died and then his wives used to practice I`tikaf after him.

From the  above quoted Hadith, it is known that I'tikaf is not only to be observed by men, but by women as well, for the have the equal right of earning reward and blessings of Allah from this form of worship. While men have to retire to a masjid for I'tikaf, women should observe it at their home in a secluded place which should be used by non-Mehram men of the family.

So let us take advantage of many blessings of the last ten days of the Ramadan and observe I'tikaf as was observed by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ regularly during his life.

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 Saum - Fasting in Ramadan for more Hadiths on the subject

Please 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.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given below. 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.

Photo | Source of Hadith

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.

Follow @IslamUltimate

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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Ramadan: Hasten to break the fast (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Fasting during the month of Ramadan specially during the hotter part of the year adds another test to the fasting believers as during the summers not only the time duration of the fasting period increases, it also completely dehydrates the believers due to lack of water in the body. Therefore, it is advisable, as stated in Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, that one must hasten to break the fast, though some people delay in breaking the fast.

This Hadith is mentioned Jami` at-Tirmidhi  (8 - The Book on Fasting / كتاب الصوم عن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم / Chapter # 13 What Has Been Related About Hastening To Break The Fast / باب مَا جَاءَ فِي تَعْجِيلِ الإِفْطَارِ  ) as Hadith number # 702:

Abu Atiyyah said:

"Masruq and I entered upon Aishah and we said: 'O Mother of the Believers! There are two men from the Companions of Muhammad, one of them hastens to break the fasts and he hastens to perform Salat. The other delays breaking the fast and he delays the Salat.' She said: 'Which of them hastens to break the fast and hastens to perform the Salat?' We said that it was Abdullah bin Mas'ud. She said: 'This is how the Messenger of Allah did it.' And the other was Abu Musa."

Grade: Sahih (Darussalam)

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا هَنَّادٌ، حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو مُعَاوِيَةَ، عَنِ الأَعْمَشِ، عَنْ عُمَارَةَ بْنِ عُمَيْرٍ، عَنْ أَبِي عَطِيَّةَ، قَالَ دَخَلْتُ أَنَا وَمَسْرُوقٌ، عَلَى عَائِشَةَ فَقُلْنَا يَا أُمَّ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ رَجُلاَنِ مِنْ أَصْحَابِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم أَحَدُهُمَا يُعَجِّلُ الإِفْطَارَ وَيُعَجِّلُ الصَّلاَةَ وَالآخَرُ يُؤَخِّرُ الإِفْطَارَ وَيُؤَخِّرُ الصَّلاَةَ ‏.‏ قَالَتْ أَيُّهُمَا يُعَجِّلُ الإِفْطَارَ وَيُعَجِّلُ الصَّلاَةَ قُلْنَا عَبْدُ اللَّهِ بْنُ مَسْعُودٍ ‏.‏ قَالَتْ هَكَذَا صَنَعَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏.‏ وَالآخَرُ أَبُو مُوسَى ‏.‏ قَالَ أَبُو عِيسَى هَذَا حَدِيثٌ حَسَنٌ صَحِيحٌ وَأَبُو عَطِيَّةَ اسْمُهُ مَالِكُ بْنُ أَبِي عَامِرٍ الْهَمْدَانِيُّ وَيُقَالُ مَالِكُ بْنُ عَامِرٍ الْهَمْدَانِيُّ وَابْنُ عَامِرٍ أَصَحُّ ‏.‏

We should follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and should  not unnecessarily delay our breaking of the fast and then offer the salat / prayer of Maghrib (the sunset time 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.

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 Saum - Fasting in Ramadan for more Hadiths on the subject

Please 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.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given below. 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.

Photo | Source of Hadith

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.

Follow @IslamUltimate

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.

Read More

Ramadan: Eating forgetfully does not Invalidate the Fast (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Ramadan is a month of enforcing self discipline on self and refrain from eating and drinking and many other  aspects as have already mentioned in number of our earlier posts. Today we take a very important aspect of fasting which often misinterpreted by many. This is regarding eating and drinking forgetfully and when one realizes that he has violated the basics of fasting, he is confused and does not know what to do.

We share a hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ which clarifies the issue and makes things very clear. This Hadith is mentioned in Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 30 - Fasting /  كتاب الصوم / Chapter 26:  If a person observing Saum ate or drank forgetfully / باب الصَّائِمِ إِذَا أَكَلَ أَوْ شَرِبَ نَاسِيًا) as Hadith 1993, given herein under:

Narrated by Abu Huraira:

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "If somebody eats or drinks forgetfully then he should complete his fast, for what he has eaten or drunk, has been given to him by Allah."

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدَانُ، أَخْبَرَنَا يَزِيدُ بْنُ زُرَيْعٍ، حَدَّثَنَا هِشَامٌ، حَدَّثَنَا ابْنُ سِيرِينَ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ ـ رضى الله عنه ـ عَنِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ إِذَا نَسِيَ فَأَكَلَ وَشَرِبَ فَلْيُتِمَّ صَوْمَهُ، فَإِنَّمَا أَطْعَمَهُ اللَّهُ وَسَقَاهُ ‏"‏‏.‏

Explanation:

• Unintentional Actions: The hadith clarifies that if a person eats or drinks by mistake or forgets that they are fasting, their fast is still valid, and they are not required to make up for that part of the fast later. This shows the mercy and understanding of Allah toward His servants.
• Allah’s Will: The phrase "for what he has eaten or drunk, has been given to him by Allah" highlights that the food or drink that was consumed during forgetfulness is not considered a violation of the fast, because it happened due to Allah’s will. In essence, it is as if Allah allowed this action to happen for the individual’s benefit, and thus, there is no sin attached to it.
• Completing the Fast: Despite the accidental consumption, the person should continue fasting for the rest of the day, as the fast is still valid. This encourages a person to stay committed to their fast even if something unintended happens.
• Mercy of Allah: The hadith demonstrates Allah’s mercy and kindness. If someone makes an honest mistake, He does not penalize them, and instead, they are to complete their fast with no further obligations. This is a reassurance for people that Allah understands human nature and doesn’t hold us accountable for actions that are beyond our control, such as forgetfulness.

In conclusion, this hadith teaches that forgetfulness does not break the fast, and the person should continue to observe the fast, knowing that Allah is merciful and understanding. It emphasizes the importance of intention in Islamic acts of worship, and that accidental actions without intent to break the fast are forgiven by Allah. This also applies to all acts that are otherwise restricted or not allowed while fasting. He should then seek forgiveness while repenting is forgetful act. Allah in all His mercy will forgive him. In sha Allah

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 Saum - Fasting in Ramadan for more Hadiths on the subject

Please 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.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given below. 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.

Photo | Source of Supplication

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.

Follow @IslamUltimate

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.

Read More

Ramadan: Fasting is a shield (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

The month of Ramadan assumes special significance for the Muslims for fasting during the month is one of the most pleasing acts of a believer in the eyes of Allah. It is a month full of blessings of Allah for His servants. Any good act during this month has far more rewarding than the months other than the Ramadan.

It is the month in which the fast acts as a deterrent for the evil to come close to the fasting men and women. For this very reason Prophet Muhammad ﷺ called fasting as a shield for the fasting men. 

I first heard this Hadith in my childhood and since then it is ingrained in my memory. 

This Hadith is mentioned in Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 30 - Fasting /  كتاب االصوم / Chapter 2:  The superiority of As-Saum (the fasting) / باب فَضْلِ الصَّوْمِ) as Hadith 1894, given herein under:

Narrated by Abu Huraira:

Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Fasting is a shield (or a screen or a shelter). So, the person observing fasting should avoid sexual relation with his wife and should not behave foolishly and impudently, and if somebody fights with him or abuses him, he should tell him twice, 'I am fasting." The Prophet (ﷺ) added, "By Him in Whose Hands my soul is, the smell coming out from the mouth of a fasting person is better in the sight of Allah than the smell of musk. (Allah says about the fasting person), 'He has left his food, drink and desires for My sake. The fast is for Me. So I will reward (the fasting person) for it and the reward of good deeds is multiplied ten times."

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ اللَّهِ بْنُ مَسْلَمَةَ، عَنْ مَالِكٍ، عَنْ أَبِي الزِّنَادِ، عَنِ الأَعْرَجِ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ ـ رضى الله عنه ـ أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ الصِّيَامُ جُنَّةٌ، فَلاَ يَرْفُثْ وَلاَ يَجْهَلْ، وَإِنِ امْرُؤٌ قَاتَلَهُ أَوْ شَاتَمَهُ فَلْيَقُلْ إِنِّي صَائِمٌ‏.‏ مَرَّتَيْنِ، وَالَّذِي نَفْسِي بِيَدِهِ لَخُلُوفُ فَمِ الصَّائِمِ أَطْيَبُ عِنْدَ اللَّهِ تَعَالَى مِنْ رِيحِ الْمِسْكِ، يَتْرُكُ طَعَامَهُ وَشَرَابَهُ وَشَهْوَتَهُ مِنْ أَجْلِي، الصِّيَامُ لِي، وَأَنَا أَجْزِي بِهِ، وَالْحَسَنَةُ بِعَشْرِ أَمْثَالِهَا ‏"‏‏.‏

As we know a shield is protective gear for the soldiers which is used to shield / protect oneself from the incoming arrows or lances or even bullets. This is the artful use of the shield by which a soldier can protect himself from any harm to him. Likewise, fast or saum has been referred to as shield or screen by the revered Prophet Muhammad ﷺ which means that a fasting man must use his fast as a shield against all attempts of the evil which may invalidate his saum. Thus, the fasting must guard his fast by adopting a good attitude and avoiding a bad one, so that fasting will produce the expected results and thus he will earn the forgiveness that is promised in return. 

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 Saum - Fasting in Ramadan for more Hadiths on the subject

Please 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.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given below. 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.

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