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

What is your goal for your spiritual development this Ramadan?

Alhamdolillah, we are the blessed ones to be fasting during this month of Ramadan. We have been fasting all our lives, or at best most of our lives, and this year too Allah has blessed us the opportunity to fast yet again. We cannot find words to express our gratitude to the favour of Allah of bestowing us yet another opportunity to fast for the love of Allah.

But have ever pondered over how should we live through this Ramadan of our lives? What is something special that we would love and like to concentrate while fasting and making all related worships and prayers specific to Ramadan?

Or in simple words: What is our GOAL for this Ramadan?

I think most of of us do not make a pledge to be different than all previous months of Ramadan. We just begin the month by fasting, going to Taraweeh prayers, reciting Qur'an more than the usual and giving out more in charity. This is what we did last year and the years before. So how do we make this Ramadan different by setting a goal for ourselves?

I  came across a very mind boggling lecture by Dr. Haifaa Younis | Mifftaah and I was really moved what she said. She paves a way for me to be spiritually better than I was last Ramadan. In fact, we should carryout a self appraisal every Ramadan and ponder over whether we have moved a notch above than las t year. And even if we have moved even an inch above on the scale of purity and spirituality than last year, we should be proud of achieving a great deal than the previous year. Let us be benefitted from her soul searching talk on "What is your goal for Ramadan?"

After listening to this lecture, I hope I will make this Ramadan different from all the previous years and concentrate on one aspect of of our lives and make an endeavour to be better than before. 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.

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.

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.

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.

For more Scholarly views and videos, please read our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on Important Issues Related to Islam. To know more about fasting and importance of month of Ramadan, please consult our reference page: Ramadan - A month of fasting and Blessings. You 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.
Follow @IslamUltimate 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 Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

How to better benefit from the month of Ramadan

Month of Ramadan is once a year opportunity for the believers to get close to Allah by fasting, an act of worship which is exclusively to please Allah. In this month, the life style of the Muslims undergoes a phenomenal change whereby they abstain from all Halal things which are otherwise allowed to them during the remaining eleven months of the year. This month comes both in winters and summers owing to alignment of Lunar Calendar in Islam. 

It is Divinely said in In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:185):

"Ramadan is the month in which was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights the new moon of the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey, then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship, and [wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that to which He has guided you, and perhaps you will be grateful."

This verse is often interpreted as describing the blessings, ease, and mercy that Allah provides to His believers during the month of Ramadan. Let’s break down the specific meanings related to "ease and mercy" that Allah intends:

Ease in Fasting:

• Allah does not intend for you hardship: The verse directly states that Allah’s intent in prescribing fasting during Ramadan is not to make things difficult for His believers, but rather to make it easy for them. While fasting can seem physically demanding, the rewards and spiritual benefits make it easier for a believer who is sincere in their faith. The overall goal is to spiritually strengthen the individual, not to burden them. Allah has created the fast in such a way that the believer can endure it, and through His mercy, makes it possible for them to achieve the reward.
• Flexibility for illness or travel: The verse also specifies that those who are ill or traveling are permitted to postpone their fast to a later time, highlighting Allah’s mercy and ease. This flexibility ensures that those who may not be able to fast during Ramadan due to health or travel are not unduly burdened, but rather allowed to make up the fasts later.

Ease in the Process of Repentance and Forgiveness:

• Spiritual Mercy: Ramadan is a month of intense worship, prayer, and reflection, where Allah’s mercy is abundant. The fast itself serves as a means of spiritual purification. In many hadiths, it is mentioned that during Ramadan, Allah’s mercy is poured out, and believers who seek forgiveness are granted it.
• Forgiveness for Sins: Ramadan is seen as a time when Allah’s mercy is especially prevalent. It’s a time when sins are forgiven, prayers are accepted, and the believer can purify themselves. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Whoever fasts during Ramadan with faith and hoping for reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 38). This hadith shows Allah’s mercy and His willingness to forgive those who strive in worship during Ramadan.

Spiritual Benefits and Ease of Worship:

• Closer Connection to Allah: During Ramadan, believers engage in more prayer (such as Taraweeh), recitation of the Qur'an, and acts of charity. Allah provides ease in this spiritual growth. The act of fasting itself purifies the soul and allows for a deeper connection with Allah. The peace and tranquility of Ramadan make it a time when a believer can engage in worship more readily, as the distractions of daily life are minimized.
• Increased Reward for Acts of Worship: Allah’s mercy in Ramadan also includes multiplying the rewards of good deeds. The rewards for acts of worship, such as prayer, charity, and fasting, are heightened during Ramadan. This makes it easier for the believer to earn great rewards in a relatively short period of time.

Implications of not observing Ramadan in its true spirit

When Allah has promised so much ease and concessions to us, we would utter losers if we do not draw maximum benefit from the mercy of Allah by fasting the way it is meant for us. This calls for a complete transformation of our lifestyle during this sacred month and leave every thins that takes us away from remembrance of Allah. Let us have a brief look at our acts which we keep doing even when fasting and thus fail to receive mercy of Allah for Allah does not require of us to abstain from eating and drinking.

• Sleeping the day altogether: Many a fasting brothers and sisters elect to sleep over the entire day, if not committed in their work, in order to evade the rigours of being hungry and thirsty. This certainly is not the spirit of fasting for it robs us from remembrance of Allah, reciting Qur'an and other forms of worship.
• Busying oneself with mobile apps / games: Many youngsters are often seeing playing games on computers and cellular phones to preoccupy them  and kill time. There are apps of Qur'an and Sunnah which we could listen to instead that not only spiritually nurtures us but also helps to understand Islam much better.
• Watching films on TV / Netflix: Films on TV and channels like Netflix are easy means of whiling away time in between the Sahoor (the pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (the meal of breaking fast at sunset). Imagine this time being devoted to reciting Qur'an or offering voluntary prayers (Nafl) and thus bagging immense dividends from Allah as promised by Him.

We could go on and on for such activities wasted away in leisure rather than activities that go by the spirit of Ramadan and harnessing oneself from every act that may take us from the pleasure of Allah.

For now, we share a very informative lecture by one of the most eminent scholars of present times, Nouman Ali Khan, who elaborates the verse quoted above and advises the Muslim brethren specially the youth as how to spend the day while fasting. Please watch the video:

About Nouman Ali Khan: Born to a Pakistani family, Nouman Ali Khan is an American Muslim speaker and Arabic instructor who founded the Bayyinah Institute for Arabic and Qur’anic Studies, after serving as an instructor of Arabic at Nassau Community College. He has been named one of the 500 most influential Muslims in the world by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre of Jordan.

Let us listen to this video again and again and really understand how Allah wants us to be His servants and how we should always be looking towards him, and no one else, for our worldly needs. If we can really absorb the meaning of this verse into ourselves, we will never go astray or be misled by worldly desires or following the priests and imams or asking from the dead saints.

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 to convey only 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.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the video above are those of the scholar concerned. We have shared this view as added information in better understanding of Islam. The reader may or may not agree with the view owing to their own perception. 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.

For more Scholarly views and videos, please read our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on Important Issues Related to Islam. 

You may also like to refer to our reference page: Ramadan: The Month of Fasting and Blessings to know more about Ramadan. Also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.

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.

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

Read More

What you really need to know to better benefit from fasting in the month of Ramadan

There is no Islamic month other than the month of Ramadan which most eagerly awaited by the Muslims all over the world. And their eagerness is justified for the reason that month of Ramadan is not only one of the five Pillars of Islam, but its reward is directly given by Allah for fasting in Ramadan is a form of worship directly between the fasting believer and his Creator, Allah Jalla Jalaluhu “ﷻ”. 

Before we share a very informative and befitting video on the month of Ramadan, let us hurriedly run over a few spiritual, emotional, and social reasons for why Muslims so eagerly wait for the month of Ramadan:

Spiritual Significance: 

Ramadan is considered the holiest month in Islam. It's a time for Muslims to strengthen their faith and draw closer to Allah (God). It is believed that during Ramadan, the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, making it a time of deep reflection and devotion.

Fasting as a Spiritual Practice: 

Fasting during Ramadan (known as Sawm) is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. This practice teaches self-discipline, patience, and empathy for those who are less fortunate. Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from eating, drinking, smoking, and other physical needs. It's not just about abstaining from food but also about purifying one's soul and seeking forgiveness.

Increased Rewards: 

Muslims believe that acts of worship and good deeds performed during Ramadan are multiplied in reward. This makes it a particularly precious time for worship, prayer, and charity. It is a time to earn the mercy and blessings of Allah.

Community and Togetherness: 

Ramadan fosters a strong sense of community. Muslims come together to break their fast at Iftar (the meal at sunset), and many gather for Taraweeh prayers at night. There’s also a strong tradition of charity during Ramadan, as people are encouraged to give to those in need.

Personal Reflection and Improvement: 

Ramadan is often seen as an opportunity for personal reflection, to evaluate one’s life, and to make positive changes. The month offers a chance for Muslims to improve themselves spiritually, mentally, and physically, making it a deeply transformative experience.

Gratitude and Humility: 

Experiencing hunger and thirst throughout the day reminds Muslims of the struggles faced by the less fortunate. This cultivates a sense of gratitude and humility, as well as an increased commitment to acts of charity, such as giving Zakat (almsgiving).

In short, Ramadan is eagerly awaited because it's a time for deep spiritual growth, devotion, and connection with both God and the community. It holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims, who see it as a time to cleanse the soul and renew their faith.

You are now requested to watch a video by eminent Muslim scholar Nauman Ali Khan speaking on the importance and benefits one accrues form fasting in the month of Ramada. You will regret not knowing this before Ramadan:

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.

Photo | 

To know more about Ramadan, please refer to our exclusive page: Ramadan: The Month of Fasting and Blessings (Reference Page)

For more Scholarly views and videos, please read our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on Important Issues Related to Islam. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.

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 Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

All you should know about Laylatul Qadr – لیلة القدر

The hallmark of the month of the Ramadan is the Night of the Qadr - Laylatul Qadr "لیلة القدر". It is the most blessed night of all the nights of the Islamic calendar. It is the night that comes on any of the odd nights of the last ten days of the month of Ramadan. The blessings and rewards for those who found this night while being awake and in worship in the odd nights of the last tend days are unimaginable.

In Qur'an, in the opening verses of Surah 44. Ad Dukhan (Smoke), Allah mentions of a blessed night in which Qur'an was revealed:

( 2 )   By the clear Book,  ( 3 )   Indeed, We sent it down during a blessed night. Indeed, We were to warn [mankind].

Having said this, then a complete Surah / Chapter of Qur'an was revealed, namely Surah 97. Al Qadr in which Allah explains the night when we revealed the Qur'an is the blessed night which is better than the worship of 1000 months, or the worship of 84 years (83 years and 4 months exactly). 

According to a tradition related in Bukhari and Muslim, on the authority of Abu Hurairah, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: The one who remained standing in worship in the state of belief and for the sake of rewards from Allah during Laylatul Qadr, would have all his previous sins forgiven.

We have already posted on the subject which should be read for additional input:

Believers!! Look for the night in last ten odd nights of Ramadan which is better than 1000 months of worship

We should not while away this night if we are lucky to to have found it. In fact we should concentrate more on our forms of worship on all odd nights for we would never know for sure when it would occur. Thus we should seek the night in worship and spend the whole of the odd nights in complete submission and devotion. We should offer Tahajjud prayers and read Qur'an as much as we can. It is said that the Prophet ﷺ used to exert himself in devotion during the last ten nights to a greater extent than any other time. Thus, this night is to be used for soul searching, evaluating the dark patches of our life, repenting and seeking Divine forgiveness. In fact we should be bowing down with more humility than before in front of our Lord and seek His mercy, for one never knows whether we will be alive to catch up the next Ramadan and this blessed night.

While our odd nights should be spent in worship and recitation of Qur'an, our following days should see us more charitable, humble and loving. 

The Imam of Masjid Al-Haram, Shaykh Abdur Rahman Al, has given an excellent formula for the last ten days of Ramadan.

• Donate one dirham (one rupee) every day, if the day falls between Lailatul Qadr, you will get the reward of donating one rupee every day for 84 years or 1000 months.
• Perform two rak'at nafal prayers daily, if the day falls in the middle of Lailatul Qadr, you will get the reward of performing two rak'at nafal prayers daily for up to 84 years.
• Recite Surah Ikhlas three times daily, if the day falls in the middle of Lailatul Qadr, you will get the reward of reciting one Khatam Qur'an every day for 84 years.

He also said, spread these words among the people, those who will listen to your words and do deeds, you too will get rewards equal to their deeds, inshallah.  Because the Messenger of Allah, may God bless him and grant him peace, said, "The one who guides good deeds will receive the same amount of reward as the doer, but there will be no deficiency in the reward of the doer."  (Muslim, 2674)

Today we share an enlightening video by eminent Muslim scholar Nauman Ali Khan in which he elaborates the importance of this night and some hints as to how can one find this night, if so lucky. Please watch the video:

Nouman Ali Khan, born to a Pakistani family, is an American Muslim speaker and Arabic instructor who founded the Bayyinah Institute for Arabic and Qur’anic Studies, after serving as an instructor of Arabic at Nassau Community College. He has been named one of the 500 most influential Muslims in the world by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre of Jordan.

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 to convey only 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 Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and help us to act upon the commandments of Allah contained therein. 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. 

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

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the video above are those of the scholar concerned. We have shared this view as added information in better understanding of Islam. The reader may or may not agree with the view owing to their own perception. 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 | 

For more Scholarly views and videos, please read our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on Important Issues Related to Islam.

You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.

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, Twitter, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

Ramadan: The Month of Fasting and Blessings (Reference Page)

The month of Ramdan assumes a very important place in the hearts of the Muslims for its is the month in which all able bodied adult Muslims, both men and women, are commanded to keep fast during the day. For many reverts, this may be their first Ramadan and I wish them to be lucky to be experiencing their exposure to a month full of blessings and bounties.

Although, Muslims eagerly await this month as it nears, they start hearing the knocking on their heart of the arrival of month of Ramadan in the last of week of Sha'ban. Preparations commence  in these days to prepare households to welcome this holy month. On the last day of Sha'ban, all eyes are fixed on the horizon where sun sets to spot the moon signaling the beginning of the month of Ramadan.

The importance of Ramadan is emphasized in the Qur'an. In Surah 2. Al Baqarah, Verse 185 of the Quran Allah says:

شَهۡرُ رَمَضَانَ الَّذِىۡٓ اُنۡزِلَ فِيۡهِ الۡقُرۡاٰنُ هُدًى لِّلنَّاسِ وَ بَيِّنٰتٍ مِّنَ الۡهُدٰى وَالۡفُرۡقَانِۚ فَمَنۡ شَهِدَ مِنۡكُمُ الشَّهۡرَ فَلۡيَـصُمۡهُ ؕ وَمَنۡ کَانَ مَرِيۡضًا اَوۡ عَلٰى سَفَرٍ فَعِدَّةٌ مِّنۡ اَيَّامٍ اُخَرَؕ يُرِيۡدُ اللّٰهُ بِکُمُ الۡيُسۡرَ وَلَا يُرِيۡدُ بِکُمُ الۡعُسۡرَ وَلِتُکۡمِلُوا الۡعِدَّةَ وَلِتُکَبِّرُوا اللّٰهَ عَلٰى مَا هَدٰٮكُمۡ وَلَعَلَّکُمۡ تَشۡكُرُوۡنَ‏ 

Ramadan is the month in which the Qur'an was sent down : this Book is a perfect guidance for mankind and consists of clear teachings which show the right way and are a criterion of Truth and falsehood. Therefore from now on whoever witnesses it, it is obligatory on him to fast the whole month, but if one be ill or on a journey, he should make up for the same number by fasting on other days. Allah desires to show leniency to you and does not desire to show any hardship. "therefore this method is being shown to you so that you may complete the number of Fast days and glorify Allah for the Guidance He has shown to you and be grateful to Him.

We have already published a number of posts on Ramadan, the references to which are given herein under to know Ramadan and fasting better:

• Fasting (Saum)
• Fasting in Ramadan - a pillar of Islam
• A night better than a thousand months
• Ramadan Mubarak
• Ramadan - Do we know enough
• How to welcome and observe the Month of Ramadan (Scholar's Viewpoint)
• Step by step guide to fasting in Ramadan
• Ramadan: Concessions for travelers and the sick 
• Ramadan - Fasting in different times
• How does Fasting in Ramadan Trains us to achieve Self Control
• Spirit of Ramadan inadvertently led me to become Muslim
• What is your Do List and Fix List for Ramadan and afterwards
• What is your goal for your spiritual development this Ramadan?
• The virtue of finding Laylat al-Qadr - the night better than thousand months while in I'tikaf

Ramadan: Q & A

• Does taking an injection invalidates the fasting / Saum?
• What you really need to know to better benefit from fasting in the month of Ramadan

You may also like to read our post on objection raised by non Muslims: Why Muslims starve them during the month of Ramada?

Special prayers / rituals during Ramadan

• Taraweeh Prayers - Salāt al-Tarāwīḥ: One of the Three Hallmarks of Month of Ramadan
• Trawih prayers
• Night of Qadr
• Surah Al Qadr  - The Power: Exegesis / Tafseer of 97th Chapter of the Quran
• A night better than thousand months
• Believers!! Look for the night in last ten odd nights of Ramadan which is better than 1000 months of worship
• All you should know about Laylatul Qadr – لیلة القدر
• Which is the time when Allah promises responding to invocations of believers  
• Prophetic Supplication for Night of Al Qadr
• Sleep Early to Wake up for Night Prayer (Tahajjad) 
• What is Itikaf and how it is Observed in Ramadan

What actions add Barakah to a fasting Muslim? We will add actions in our coming posts to elaborate on Barakah and how to add it to us through our actions.

• Whole hearted Charity
• Recitation of Qur'an
• Seeking Maghfarat (pardon, remission, absolution, salvation, deliverance) for the Muslim Ummah
• Sharing knowledge of Islam with those who are illiterate or in need of essential knowledge of Islam, specially the reverts.

You may like to read our exclusive post on our lives in post Ramadan period: Let us continue to practice the virtues learnt during the Ramadan

Please refer to exclusive reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Saum - Fasting in Ramadan. You 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.

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