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Friday, 6 September 2024

Do not harm anyone who is under the protection of Allah (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Anyone who obeys Allah's commandments is one of the blessed ones. However, there is a group of people who are under the protection of Allah. The question arises who could be these special people be who are under the protection of Allah and for whom the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has cautioned others not to harm them, for if any harm and injustice is done to them, Allah will Himself take stock of such people.

Who are these people then? These are mentioned in a Hadith quoted in Sunan Ibn Majah /  Book 36 Tribulations / كتاب الفتن) / Chapter 6: The Muslims are under the Protection of Allah / باب  الْمُسْلِمُونَ فِي ذِمَّةِ اللَّهِ عَزَّ وَجَلَّ / as Hadith number # 3945 under:

It was narrated from Abu Bakr Siddiq that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:
Whoever offers the morning prayer, he is under the protection of Allah, so do not betray Allah by betraying those who are under His protection. Whoever kills him, Allah will seek him out until He throws him on his face into Hell.”

Arabic Text:‏
حَدَّثَنَا عَمْرُو بْنُ عُثْمَانَ بْنِ سَعِيدِ بْنِ كَثِيرِ بْنِ دِينَارٍ الْحِمْصِيُّ، حَدَّثَنَا أَحْمَدُ بْنُ خَالِدٍ الْوَهْبِيُّ، حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ الْعَزِيزِ بْنُ أَبِي سَلَمَةَ الْمَاجِشُونُ، عَنْ عَبْدِ الْوَاحِدِ بْنِ أَبِي عَوْنٍ، عَنْ سَعْدِ بْنِ إِبْرَاهِيمَ، عَنْ حَابِسٍ الْيَمَانِيِّ، عَنْ أَبِي بَكْرٍ الصِّدِّيقِ، قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ـ صلى الله عليه وسلم ـ ‏ "‏ مَنْ صَلَّى الصُّبْحَ فَهُوَ فِي ذِمَّةِ اللَّهِ فَلاَ تُخْفِرُوا اللَّهَ فِي عَهْدِهِ فَمَنْ قَتَلَهُ طَلَبَهُ اللَّهُ حَتَّى يَكُبَّهُ فِي النَّارِ عَلَى وَجْهِهِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

Grade: Sahih (Darussalam)

The Hadith emphasizes the importance of the Fajr (morning) prayer and the special protection granted by Allah to those who observe it. 

Explanation of the Hadith:
  • Significance of Fajr Prayer: The Fajr prayer is one of the five obligatory prayers in Islam and holds a special place due to the timing and effort required to wake up early. It marks the beginning of the day with worship and remembrance of Allah, setting a spiritual tone for the rest of the day.
  • Protection from Allah: The Hadith states that those who perform the Fajr prayer are under Allah’s protection (dhimmah). This "protection" means that Allah grants them His safeguarding, guidance, and care throughout the day. Being under Allah’s protection is a profound blessing and an assurance of divine security.
  • Warning Against Harming Those Under Allah’s Protection: The Hadith warns others not to harm or betray those who are under Allah’s protection. To harm a believer who has performed their Fajr prayer is akin to violating a sacred trust with Allah Himself. This emphasizes the seriousness of maintaining respect for the sanctity of fellow Muslims.
  • Severe Consequences for Harm: The Hadith makes it clear that anyone who harms or kills a believer under Allah’s protection will face dire consequences. Allah will seek retribution against such a person until they are punished severely, emphasizing the gravity of violating the rights of others.
Qur'anic References:
  • Protection and Guidance for Believers
    • "Indeed, Allah defends those who have believed. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone treacherous and ungrateful." (Surah Al-Hajj, 22:38)
This verse aligns with the Hadith, highlighting that Allah defends and protects those who have faith in Him. Performing acts of worship, such as Fajr prayer, strengthens this protection and defense.
  • Respect for the Sanctity of Life:
    • "And do not kill the soul which Allah has forbidden, except by right." (Surah Al-Isra, 17:33)
The Qur'an strictly prohibits unjust killing, emphasizing the sanctity of human life. The Hadith reinforces this teaching by illustrating that harming those under Allah’s protection is a severe violation.
  • Consequences for Betraying Trusts:
    • "O you who have believed, do not betray Allah and the Messenger or betray your trusts while you know [the consequence]." (Surah Al-Anfal, 8:27)
    • Betraying a person under Allah’s protection is also considered a betrayal of Allah Himself. This verse warns against treachery, aligning with the Hadith’s emphasis on the severe consequences for harming fellow believers.
  • Warning of Hell for Those Who Harm Believers:
    • "But whoever kills a believer intentionally, his recompense is Hell, wherein he will abide eternally. Allah has become angry with him and has cursed him and has prepared for him a great punishment." (Surah An-Nisa, 4:93)
    • This verse parallels the Hadith by stating that those who harm or kill believers will face severe punishment in Hell. It underscores the severe spiritual consequences of such actions.
Wisdom Behind the Hadith:
  • Emphasizing the Importance of Fajr: Fajr prayer is a test of faith and discipline. By establishing Fajr, a believer demonstrates their commitment to Allah, which earns them divine protection.
  • Strengthening Community Bonds: The Hadith discourages acts of treachery against fellow Muslims, promoting trust, respect, and a sense of security within the community.
  • Warning Against Injustice: It serves as a powerful deterrent against harming others, especially those who have a strong connection with Allah through their worship. It highlights the sacredness of every believer’s life.
  • Encouraging Upright Behavior: By reminding Muslims of Allah’s protection over those who pray, the Hadith motivates believers to uphold good character, avoid conflicts, and respect one another.
This Hadith thus teaches the profound importance of the Fajr prayer, not just as a routine act of worship but as a key to divine protection. It warns against violating the rights of those who are under Allah’s care and highlights the severe consequences of such actions, both in this life and the Hereafter. The Qur'an and Hadith together create a powerful reminder of the sanctity of life, the importance of trust, and the value of maintaining strong ties with Allah and His believers.
May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thursday, 5 September 2024

The harmful influence and reality of Evil Eye

Generally people do not believe in the harmful influence of the evil eye. I did not for a long time. But the more I read about it, I came to realise that a sharp gaze due to envy has its ill effect and sometimes very damaging effect. Today I came across a Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ which reinforced my belief in this evil act and thought of sharing with my readers. Before I do that, let us see what evil eye actually is (as defined by Wikipedia):

"The evil eye is a supernatural belief in a curse brought about by a malevolent glare, usually inspired by envy." The belief in the evil eye among humans has existed for thousands of years, and amulets to protect against it have been found dating to around 5,000 years ago.

The concept of evil eye exists in almost all religions and couture of almost all countries around the world.

In Judaism, while others believe it to be a kind of supernatural force that casts or reflects a malevolent gaze back upon those who wish harm upon others (especially innocents). The idea also appears multiple times in Jewish rabbinic literature. In Chapter II, five disciples of Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakai give advice on how to follow the good path in life and avoid the bad. Rabbi Eliezer says an evil eye is worse than a bad friend, a bad neighbor, or an evil heart.

Christianity's beliefs of the evil eye can be located in some passages of the Bible. In Luke 11:34 Jesus referenced to the eye as the lamp of the body. If a person's eye is generous, then their whole body will be full of light. If their eye is evil, then their whole body will be full of darkness.

In Hinduism, although Śrauta traditions do not have a concept of evil, it has been incorporated as a mainstream practice within modern Hinduism. For example, when a mother observes that her child is being excessively complimented, it is common for the mother to attempt to neutralize the effects of the evil eye (nazar utarna, drshti teeta or drushti tegeyodu). A common example of a neutralizing ritual involves holding red chilies in one hand and circling the child's head a few times, then burning the chilies. 

Now let us come to the Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is quoted in Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim: Book 39 The Book of Greetings / كتاب السلام /  Chapter 16: Medicine, Sickness And Ruqyah / باب  الطِّبِّ وَالْمَرَضِ وَالرُّقَى ‏‏ / as Hadith number # 338a as under:

Ibn 'Abbas reported Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) as saying:

The influence of an evil eye is a fact; if anything would precede the destiny it would be the influence of an evil eye, and when you are asked to take bath (as a cure) from the influence of an evil eye, you should take bath.

Arabic Text:
وَحَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ اللَّهِ بْنُ عَبْدِ الرَّحْمَنِ الدَّارِمِيُّ، وَحَجَّاجُ بْنُ الشَّاعِرِ، وَأَحْمَدُ بْنُ خِرَاشٍ، قَالَ عَبْدُ اللَّهِ أَخْبَرَنَا وَقَالَ الآخَرَانِ، حَدَّثَنَا مُسْلِمُ بْنُ إِبْرَاهِيمَ، قَالَ حَدَّثَنَا وُهَيْبٌ، عَنِ ابْنِ، طَاوُسٍ عَنْ أَبِيهِ، عَنِ ابْنِ عَبَّاسٍ، عَنِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ الْعَيْنُ حَقٌّ وَلَوْ كَانَ شَىْءٌ سَابَقَ الْقَدَرَ سَبَقَتْهُ الْعَيْنُ وَإِذَا اسْتُغْسِلْتُمْ فَاغْسِلُوا ‏"‏ ‏.

This hadith emphasizes the reality of the evil eye (“Al-‘Ayn”) and its potential harmful effects, while also highlighting the importance of taking preventive and remedial measures against it. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) acknowledges the impact of the evil eye, even suggesting that it can be powerful enough to affect someone’s health, success, or well-being.

Key Points of the Hadith:
  • The Reality of the Evil Eye: The Prophet (ﷺ) affirms that the evil eye is real and can cause harm. It is not merely a superstition or myth but a recognized phenomenon in Islam that can lead to physical or emotional harm.
  • Precedence Over Destiny: The hadith states, “if anything would precede the destiny, it would be the influence of an evil eye.” This does not mean that the evil eye overrides Allah’s decree (Qadar) but emphasizes its powerful impact. Destiny is ultimately in Allah’s control, but the evil eye can cause harm within the parameters of what Allah has destined.
  • Remedy Through Bathing: The Prophet (ﷺ) instructs that if someone is affected by the evil eye, they may be asked to take a specific type of bath as a remedy. The recommended action involves washing oneself with water that has been used by the person who cast the evil eye. This practice is believed to help remove the negative effects.
Understanding the Evil Eye:
The evil eye refers to harm caused by someone’s envy, jealousy, or even admiration. When someone looks at another with intense feelings—whether positive or negative—it can have harmful spiritual effects, intentionally or unintentionally. It often results from a person’s strong emotions that affect the one being looked at.
  • Harm of the Evil Eye: The evil eye can manifest as physical illness, loss of blessings, sudden misfortune, or unexplained difficulties. The harm is not due to the inherent power of the person casting the eye but rather is allowed by Allah as a test or trial.
  • Protection and Prevention: The Qur’an and Sunnah offer guidance on protecting oneself from the evil eye, such as reciting specific supplications (duas), seeking Allah’s protection, and regularly reading Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas. It is also recommended to say "Masha’Allah" (what Allah has willed) when admiring something to acknowledge Allah’s blessing and reduce the potential harm of envy.
  • Bathing as a Remedy: The hadith advises taking a bath with water used by the person who cast the evil eye, reflecting the idea that spiritual remedies can alleviate the effects of such harm. While this practice is less common today, it signifies the importance of taking proactive steps to seek healing and not dismiss the harm caused by the evil eye.
The verse of Evil Eye in Qur'an:
The Verse of Evil Eye (Arabic: آیه وَإِن يَكَادُ) is verses 51 and 52 of Al-Qalam (Q68:51-52) in the Quran. It is usually recited for protection from the evil eye. It states: "And indeed, those who disbelieve would almost make you slip with their eyes when they hear the message, and they say: Indeed, he is mad. But it is not except a reminder to the worlds (68:51 and 52)."

The verse refers to an evil eye. This meant that they wanted to make Prophet Muhammad ﷺ sick and die with a special kind of look. It also suggests that the verse is a metonymy for 'very angry glances', as they looked very furiously as if they wanted to kill Muhammad ﷺ. In addition, the grudges of the disbelievers led them to a contradiction. On the one hand, they understood the importance of the Quran insofar as they desired the destruction of the Prophet ﷺ, but on the other hand, they accused him of madness.

Islamic Perspective on the Evil Eye and Destiny:
  • Generally held concept of Evil Eye: In Islam, the evil eye, or al-ʽayn (Arabic: العين, also عين الحسودة), is a common belief that individuals have the power to cause harm to people, animals or objects, by looking at them in a way that indicates jealousy. Although envy activates the evil eye, this happens (or usually happens) unconsciously. In addition to being looked at, astrology may play a part. Someone may become a victim of the evil eye by virtue of an "unfavorable celestial configuration" at the time of victim's birth, "according to some scholars"
  • Destiny (Qadar) is Supreme: In Islam, everything happens by Allah’s decree, and nothing can occur outside of His will. The evil eye, like all other trials, occurs within the framework of destiny and serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance, faith, and reliance on Allah’s protection.
  • Seeking Remedies is Encouraged: Islam encourages seeking both spiritual and practical remedies when faced with harm. The Prophet’s (ﷺ) guidance on taking a bath highlights that while the evil eye is real, there are means to address its effects.
This hadith acknowledges the existence and influence of the evil eye, emphasizing that it is a genuine phenomenon that can cause real harm within the boundaries of Allah’s decree. It encourages believers to take protective measures, seek remedies, and maintain their faith in Allah’s ultimate control over all things. The instruction to bathe as a cure reflects Islam’s holistic approach to addressing spiritual and physical ailments through both faith and action.

Here it may be mentioned that use of amulets or hanging objects available in the market has no effect to ward of the effects of the evil eye. One has to supplicate to Allah to ward off effects of signs of any visible harm before it really takes over and harms 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  for more Hadiths on the General Subjects.

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesday, 4 September 2024

Islam PROHIBITS looking at `Awrah – the Intimate Body Parts of others

Islam is not only a religion to usher its followers how to worship Allah. It in fact it provides a complete code of life that beside emphasis on worshiping and having faith in Allah, also lays down bounds of inter personal relations, intimacy, justice, legal and social. 

Talking of inter personal relations, Islam emphasises on respect and honour of both genders and strictly lays  down guidelines about the intimate relations. Unlike what happens in the West, where man and woman freely mix with each other, establish intimate relations without the bound of marriage, even now establishing relations between same gender look at the and exhibiting feelings about each other in the open, Islam strictly prohibits such intimacy and forbids believers to `Awrah – the Intimate Body Parts of others when in private and orders lowering down their gaze when looking at each other - lest the Evil entices them to go beyond the bounds set forth in Islam.

Before we share a Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ on this very sensitive subject, let us explain in brief the meaning of Awrah:

'Awrah (Arabic: عورة , ستر, satr)  refers to the intimate parts of the human body, which must, according to Islam, be covered by clothing. Most of modern Islamic scholars agree that the 'awrah of a man is the area between the navel and the knees, and the 'awrah of a woman is the entire body except the face, hand; exposing the 'awrah of the body is against Islamic law. It may be seen that the emphasis of covering the 'Awrah of women is more emphasised as it is the unexposed body of the women that is the basis of all evil that gives misleading signals to men for establishment of illegal intimate relations, which in Islam are only restricted between a Husband and wife, and that too in complete privacy.

This Hadith is quoted in Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim: Book 3 The Book of Menstruation /   كتاب الحيض/  Chapter 17: The prohibition of looking at `awrah / باب تَحْرِيمِ النَّظَرِ إِلَى الْعَوْرَاتِ / as Hadith number # 338a as under:

'Abd al-Rahman, the son of Abu Sa'id al-Khudri, reported from his father:

The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: A man should not see the private parts of another man, and a woman should not see the private parts of another woman, and a man should not lie with another man under one covering, and a woman should not lie with another woman under one covering.

Arabic Text:
حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو بَكْرِ بْنُ أَبِي شَيْبَةَ، حَدَّثَنَا زَيْدُ بْنُ الْحُبَابِ، عَنِ الضَّحَّاكِ بْنِ عُثْمَانَ، قَالَ أَخْبَرَنِي زَيْدُ بْنُ أَسْلَمَ، عَنْ عَبْدِ الرَّحْمَنِ بْنِ أَبِي سَعِيدٍ الْخُدْرِيِّ، عَنْ أَبِيهِ، أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ لاَ يَنْظُرُ الرَّجُلُ إِلَى عَوْرَةِ الرَّجُلِ وَلاَ الْمَرْأَةُ إِلَى عَوْرَةِ الْمَرْأَةِ وَلاَ يُفْضِي الرَّجُلُ إِلَى الرَّجُلِ فِي ثَوْبٍ وَاحِدٍ وَلاَ تُفْضِي الْمَرْأَةُ إِلَى الْمَرْأَةِ فِي الثَّوْبِ الْوَاحِدِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

The hadith you referenced emphasizes the principles of modesty and privacy that are integral to Islamic teachings regarding interpersonal conduct and gender interactions. It aligns with similar guidance in the Quran and other Hadiths that stress the importance of maintaining personal boundaries and safeguarding one’s modesty. Here’s a detailed explanation of this hadith in the light of related Quranic verses and similar Hadiths:

Explanation of the Hadith:
  • Prohibition of Seeing the Private Parts: This part of the hadith stresses that both men and women must maintain their privacy by not exposing their private parts (awrah) to others of the same gender. This reinforces the concept of personal modesty and respect for one's body.
  • Prohibition of Sharing Bed Covers: The instruction against two men or two women lying together under the same cover further emphasizes the importance of boundaries and avoiding situations that could lead to immodesty or inappropriate behavior. It serves as a preventive measure against any actions that could compromise modesty.
It is even mentioned that  when brothers and sisters reach the age of ten, their beds must be separated for the Evil machination may even permeate between brothers and sisters and crossing the bounds of legitimate relations - something called incest in the Western world.

Quranic Commandments on Modesty:
  • For Men: "Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what they do." Surah An-Nur (24:30-31)
  • For Women: "And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and guard their private parts and not expose their adornment except that which [necessarily] appears thereof and to wrap their headcovers over their chests..."
These verses highlight the general command for both men and women to practice modesty by guarding their private parts and lowering their gaze. The hadith complements these verses by specifically outlining situations that must be avoided to protect personal modesty.

Emphasis on Modesty in Other Hadiths:
  • Hadith on Modesty as Part of Faith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized that modesty is a core aspect of a Muslim's faith. (Sahih Bukhari). This general principle underlines the importance of avoiding any actions that would compromise modesty, including exposing oneself or being in compromising situations.
  • Hadith on the Awrah (Private Parts): Hadith: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Cover your awrah except from your spouse.” (Sunan Abu Dawood). This hadith underscores that the private parts should remain covered except in the specific context of marriage, reinforcing the same boundaries mentioned in the primary hadith.
Key Themes and Lessons:
  • Maintaining Modesty and Privacy: Islam places a high value on personal modesty, considering it a protective barrier against immoral behavior. The hadith warns against situations that could lead to immodesty or temptation, promoting a culture of respect and personal boundaries.
  • Respecting Boundaries: The hadith serves as a guideline for how Muslims should interact with others of the same gender, ensuring that personal boundaries are respected. By not seeing or exposing the private parts and avoiding close physical situations, Muslims are better able to maintain modesty.
  • Preventing Immorality and Impropriety: The prohibition against sharing a cover with another person of the same gender serves as a preventive measure against potential immorality or inappropriate behavior, promoting a safe and respectful environment.
  • Encouraging Conscious Behavior: This hadith and similar teachings in Islam encourage believers to be conscious of their behavior, surroundings, and interactions, always prioritizing modesty and propriety in their conduct.
This hadith reflects a broader Islamic ethic of modesty, respect for privacy, and safeguarding personal boundaries. It aligns closely with the Quranic injunctions that call for guarding one’s private parts and lowering the gaze, as well as with other prophetic traditions that emphasize modesty as a key component of faith. These teachings collectively aim to foster a community where modesty is protected, inappropriate exposure is avoided, and personal dignity is upheld.
May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday, 3 September 2024

How did Allah Command the Prophet ﷺ (and his followers) to deal with the People of the Book

Since the introduction of Islam as the final Divine religion, disbelievers, non Muslims and even the people following the earlier Divine scriptures have not accepted Islam as a Divine religion. When Prophet Muhammad ﷺ invited the pagans of Makkah towards Islam, he was hotly contested to the extent of abuses and physical torture to give the "idea  of new religion" hatched by his very person. So much was the pain of sufferings that even a group of Muslims were to told to migrate to Habash, despite the fact that in those days was under the domination of the Christians. 

Yet, despite all the hardship suffered by the earlier Muslims, which sadly still continues in many a non Muslim country, the Prophet ﷺ was asked to exercise restraint and approach them in the fairest of manners, for hostility breeds hostility. This is the subject of of our today's post wherein we share the 46th verse of Surah 29, Al Ankabut (The Spider) given herein under:

وَلَا تُجَادِلُوۡٓا اَهۡلَ الۡكِتٰبِ اِلَّا بِالَّتِىۡ هِىَ اَحۡسَنُ ۖ اِلَّا الَّذِيۡنَ ظَلَمُوۡا مِنۡهُمۡ​ وَقُوۡلُوۡٓا اٰمَنَّا بِالَّذِىۡۤ اُنۡزِلَ اِلَيۡنَا وَاُنۡزِلَ اِلَيۡكُمۡ وَاِلٰهُـنَا وَاِلٰهُكُمۡ وَاحِدٌ وَّنَحۡنُ لَهٗ مُسۡلِمُوۡنَ‏  
(29:46) Argue not with the People of the Book except in the fairest manner, unless it be those of them that are utterly unjust. Say to them: “We believe in what was revealed to us and what was revealed to you. One is our God and your God; and we are those who submit83 ourselves to Him.”

Explanation of the Verse
  • Engage in Dialogue with Respect and Wisdom: The verse emphasizes that when discussing religious matters with the People of the Book, Muslims should do so in a way that is characterized by wisdom, respect, and the best manners. This approach promotes understanding and reduces hostility, paving the way for constructive dialogue rather than confrontational disputes.
  • Avoiding Hostile Disputes: Arguing in a hostile or aggressive manner often leads to animosity and deepens misunderstandings. The Qur'an advises against such disputes because they are counterproductive and can lead to negative feelings rather than bridging gaps between different faith communities. Sometimes, the people of Da'wah missions lose their cool when confronted with the hostile audience as in the case of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. When he went to the city of Taif, he was stoned by the people to an extent that his who body was covered up in blood.  Yet when Angel Gabriel (Jibraeel) came and permission to uproot the mountain and crush the disbelievers, the revered Prophet did not allow for he knew one day the people of Taif will enter the fold of Islam. And they did.
  • Focusing on Common Beliefs: The verse also encourages Muslims to emphasize common beliefs when speaking with the People of the Book: the shared belief in one God, the respect for revealed scriptures, and the concept of submission to God’s will. This approach can help to foster mutual respect and understanding.
  • Except Against Injustice: The exception mentioned in the verse refers to those who commit injustice or act with blatant hostility against Muslims. In such cases, Muslims are allowed to defend themselves and their beliefs but are still encouraged to maintain a level of dignity and avoid stooping to unjust behavior.
Supporting Hadith and Islamic Teachings
  • Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) Example: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) often engaged with Jews and Christians in a respectful manner, setting an example of how to interact with people of different faiths. He would listen to their perspectives, share the message of Islam, and avoid unnecessary conflict.
  • Hadith on Gentleness: The Prophet emphasized the importance of gentleness and avoiding disputes:
“Gentleness / kindness is not found in anything except that it beautifies it, and it is not removed from anything except that it disfigures it.” (Sahih Muslim, 2594a)

This teaching aligns with the Qur’anic guidance to avoid hostile arguments and instead choose a kind and gentle approach in discussions.

Broader Implications in Light of the Qur’an and Hadith
  • Promoting Peaceful Coexistence: This guidance supports peaceful coexistence and mutual respect between Muslims and people of other faiths. It underscores the importance of building bridges rather than creating divisions.
  • Focus on the Message Rather than Winning Arguments: The goal of engaging with the People of the Book is not to "win" arguments but to convey the message of Islam in a way that is sincere and respectful. The emphasis is on inviting people to truth with wisdom and good advice, as outlined in other Qur’anic verses, such as Surah An-Nahl (16:125).
(O Prophet), call to the way of your Lord with wisdom and goodly exhortation, and reason with them in the best manner possible. Surely your Lord knows best who has strayed away from His path, and He also knows well those who are guided to the Right Way.
  • Avoiding Useless Disputes: Arguments often become emotional and can stray from the core issues, leading to wasted time and effort. By focusing on shared values and respectful dialogue, Muslims can avoid fruitless disputes and instead foster a meaningful exchange of ideas.
The Qur’anic guidance to avoid arguing with the People of the Book, except in the best manner, teaches Muslims the importance of respectful engagement, focusing on shared beliefs, and avoiding unnecessary hostility. This approach not only upholds the dignity of the dialogue but also reflects the true spirit of Islam, which emphasizes respect, wisdom, and compassion in all interactions.


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

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

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

Please refer to our Selected verses from Sūrahs of Qur'an to highlight important topics with detailed explanation and Reference Page on Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'an. You may 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 FacebookYou may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

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

Believers! Do not disparage Allah's favors (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Man has always been ungrateful. No matter how much, he is always eyeing the possessions and blessings on others rather than his own. In fact most of the times he is sandwiched between envy and contentment. Let us define these two opposite poles and then share a very meaningful advice by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ:

Envy is a negative emotional response characterized by a feeling of discontent or resentment aroused by someone else's possessions, qualities, achievements, or status. It often involves a desire to have what another person has, coupled with the wish that they would lose it.

Contentment is a state of inner peace and satisfaction with what one has, without constantly longing for more or feeling deprived. It involves being happy with Allah’s decree and finding joy in the present circumstances. 

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has always advised his companions and the would be followers to be always thankful and contended of what Allah has blessed them with, rather than envying the position and blessings of others and remaining uncontended all the time.

This Hadith is quoted in Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim: Book 55 The Book of Zuhd and Softening of Hearts /   كتاب الزهد والرقائق/  as Hadith number # 2963c as under:

Abu Huraira reported Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) as saying:

Look at those who stand at a lower level than you but don't look at those who stand at a higher level than you, for that is better-suited that you do not disparage Allah's favors.

In the chain narrated by Abu Mu'awiya's he said: Upon you.

Arabic Text:
وَحَدَّثَنِي زُهَيْرُ بْنُ حَرْبٍ، حَدَّثَنَا جَرِيرٌ، ح وَحَدَّثَنَا أَبُو كُرَيْبٍ، حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو مُعَاوِيَةَ، ح وَحَدَّثَنَا أَبُو بَكْرِ بْنُ أَبِي شَيْبَةَ، - وَاللَّفْظُ لَهُ - حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو مُعَاوِيَةَ، وَوَكِيعٌ، عَنِ الأَعْمَشِ، عَنْ أَبِي صَالِحٍ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏"‏ انْظُرُوا إِلَى مَنْ أَسْفَلَ مِنْكُمْ وَلاَ تَنْظُرُوا إِلَى مَنْ هُوَ فَوْقَكُمْ فَهُوَ أَجْدَرُ أَنْ لاَ تَزْدَرُوا نِعْمَةَ اللَّهِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏ قَالَ أَبُو مُعَاوِيَةَ ‏"‏ عَلَيْكُمْ ‏"‏

This hadith emphasizes the importance of maintaining gratitude and contentment by shifting one’s perspective. It teaches that by focusing on those who are less fortunate, we can better appreciate Allah’s blessings in our own lives, thereby avoiding ingratitude and discontent. This message aligns closely with the teachings of the Qur’an, which frequently instructs believers to practice gratitude and be mindful of Allah’s favors.

Key Points of the Hadith:
  • Look at Those Less Fortunate: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) advises looking at those who are at a lower level than oneself in terms of worldly possessions, wealth, status, or health. This perspective helps one realize their own blessings and reduces the tendency to feel envious or dissatisfied.
  • Avoid Comparing with Those More Fortunate: The hadith warns against constantly comparing oneself with those who have more. Such comparisons often lead to feelings of inadequacy, envy, and a lack of appreciation for what one already possesses.
  • Promoting Gratitude: The primary aim of this advice is to nurture gratitude towards Allah. Recognizing one's own blessings in contrast to those who have less helps prevent disparaging Allah’s favors, thus fostering a positive and thankful attitude.
Explanation in Light of the Qur’an:
The guidance in this hadith reflects key teachings from the Qur’an, where Allah frequently calls upon believers to be grateful, avoid envy, and recognize His blessings. Here are some relevant verses:
  • Gratitude as a Key Virtue: The Qur’an emphasizes gratitude as a fundamental quality that brings divine favor:
“And [remember] when your Lord proclaimed, ‘If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.’” (Surah Ibrahim 14:7)

This verse underscores the importance of being grateful. The hadith’s advice to look at those less fortunate helps cultivate this gratitude, ensuring believers do not overlook the blessings they have.
  • Avoiding Covetousness and Excessive Worldly Aspirations: The Qur’an cautions against yearning for the worldly gains of others:
“And do not extend your eyes toward that by which We have given enjoyment to [some] categories of them, [its being but] the splendor of worldly life by which We test them. But the provision of your Lord is better and more enduring.” (Surah Ta-Ha 20:131)

This verse echoes the hadith’s teaching by advising against longing for what others have. Worldly possessions are temporary tests, and focusing on them can distract believers from what truly matters—faith, contentment, and thankfulness.
  • Contentment and Recognizing Allah’s Provision: Allah reminds believers to find contentment in His provision:
“So eat from what Allah has provided for you, [which is] lawful and good. And be grateful for the favor of Allah, if it is [indeed] Him that you worship.” (Surah An-Nahl 16:114)

The instruction to be grateful for what Allah provides aligns perfectly with the hadith’s message. Recognizing the sufficiency of one’s own blessings leads to a life of contentment and prevents ingratitude.
  • Gratitude as a Protection Against Disparaging Allah’s Blessings: By appreciating what we have and not focusing on what others possess, we protect ourselves from belittling or being dissatisfied with Allah’s favors. The Qur’an says:
“And He gave you from all you asked of Him. And if you should count the favor of Allah, you could not enumerate them. Indeed, mankind is [generally] most unjust and ungrateful.” (Surah Ibrahim 14:34)

This verse reflects human nature’s tendency towards ingratitude, which the hadith aims to counteract by urging believers to appreciate their blessings.

In light of the above explanation, we conclude that this hadith teaches a profound lesson in contentment and gratitude, which is mirrored in the Qur’anic guidance. By focusing on those less fortunate, believers can develop a deeper appreciation for Allah’s favors, avoid the pitfalls of envy, and maintain a grateful heart. This perspective fosters a balanced, peaceful mindset, rooted in recognizing and valuing the countless blessings bestowed by 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 Warning and Cautions for more Hadiths on the subject

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

Photo | Source of 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.

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

Monday, 2 September 2024

Warning of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about the Unseen

If we look around, we find more people making merry completely oblivious of the end days and the life in the Hereafter. On the contrary, very few heed to the Divine warnings about a life that is yet to come after our death, which will be permanent and unending. Even a large number of believers, who otherwise claim to have faith in their Creator, are more drowned in the leisure and pleasure of this world, rather than making preparations for the day when all the people who ever lived on this earth will be resurrected and rewarded due to their fear of Allah and good deeds or awarded punishment for being unfaithful to Allah and for siding with the Satan by living a life completely forbidden by Allah.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in one of his hadiths cautioned and forewarned his companions about what they may encounter in the life of the Hereafter unless they heed to what is written in Qur'an or conveyed to them by him personally and tried to ward off the Satanic enticements and continued to live a life as expected of them as true believers.

This Hadith is mentioned in Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 83 Oaths and Vows /  كتاب  الأيمان والنذور / Chapter 3:  How did the oaths of the Prophet (saws) use to be? / بَابُ كَيْفَ كَانَتْ يَمِينُ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم ) as Hadith 6637, given herein under:

Narrated by Abu Huraira:

Abu-l-Qasim (the Prophet) said, "By Him in Whose Hand Muhammad's soul is, if you know that which I know, you would weep much and laugh little."

Arabic Text:
حَدَّثَنِي إِبْرَاهِيمُ بْنُ مُوسَى، أَخْبَرَنَا هِشَام ٌ ـ هُوَ ابْنُ يُوسُفَ ـ عَنْ مَعْمَرٍ، عَنْ هَمَّامٍ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، قَالَ قَالَ أَبُو الْقَاسِمِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ "‏ وَالَّذِي نَفْسُ مُحَمَّدٍ بِيَدِهِ لَوْ تَعْلَمُونَ مَا أَعْلَمُ لَبَكَيْتُمْ كَثِيرًا، وَلَضَحِكْتُمْ قَلِيلاً ‏"‏‏.‏

This hadith, narrated by Abu-l-Qasim (another name for the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ), expresses a profound message about the gravity of the knowledge that the Prophet possessed, particularly concerning the realities of the afterlife, the unseen, and the consequences of human actions.

Key Points of the Hadith:
  • Oath Emphasizing the Seriousness: The Prophet begins with an oath, "By Him in Whose Hand Muhammad's soul is," emphasizing the truth and seriousness of his statement. This kind of oath underscores the weight of what he is about to say and demands the attention of the listener.
  • The Depth of the Prophet’s Knowledge: The phrase "if you know that which I know" suggests that the Prophet had knowledge of profound and often unseen realities, including the consequences of sin, the severity of the Day of Judgment, the reality of Hellfire, the trials of the grave, and the fate of humanity in the Hereafter. This knowledge was given to him through divine revelation.
  • Weeping Much and Laughing Little: The Prophet states that if people were fully aware of these realities, their behavior would change drastically: they would "weep much and laugh little." This reflects how the awareness of the spiritual consequences and the gravity of the afterlife would lead to a more serious, contemplative, and repentant demeanor, rather than one filled with excessive joy or heedlessness.
Implications of the Hadith:
  • Awareness of the Afterlife: The hadith calls on believers to reflect deeply on the reality of life after death. It serves as a reminder of the Day of Judgment, the trials of the grave, and the accountability every soul will face. Awareness of these matters should encourage believers to live their lives with mindfulness, humility, and repentance.
  • Balance Between Fear and Hope: While Islam encourages believers to have hope in Allah’s mercy, this hadith reminds them not to be complacent or neglectful of their spiritual responsibilities. The weeping mentioned here is not meant to induce despair but to inspire a sense of responsibility, introspection, and a balanced emotional response to life’s realities.
  • Avoiding Excessive Heedlessness: Laughing in excess or being overly carefree about worldly matters often indicates a lack of awareness or concern for one's spiritual state. The hadith warns against this kind of heedlessness, reminding believers to keep in mind the serious and transient nature of life.
  • Motivation for Good Deeds and Repentance: Understanding the severity of what awaits after death should motivate Muslims to increase in good deeds, seek forgiveness, and strive to live in accordance with Allah’s guidance. It encourages a life of awareness, where one's actions are aligned with the understanding of the greater spiritual realities.
This hadith thus serves as a powerful reminder of the unseen realities that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was privy to and urges the believers to reflect on these matters. It calls for a deeper consciousness of the afterlife, fostering an attitude of humility, repentance, and mindfulness in one's daily life. By contemplating this message, Muslims are encouraged to live with a balance of fear and hope, always mindful of their ultimate return to Allah.

Let us then, our sisters and brothers in Islam, live a life exactly as demanded of us by the Divine Commandments contained in the Qur'an and prompted by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in a large number of Hadiths. Time for us is too limited as death can catch us anytime completely by surprise, leaving us not even a fraction of second to repent our sins and wrong doings so as to seek forgiveness of 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 Warning and Cautions for more Hadiths on the subject

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


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

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

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

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