How should a believer supplicate for forgiveness

Man is prone to be enticed by the Evil and commit acts that are prohibited and not desired at all. But the lust for sinful acts is so lucrative that sometimes even the most pious find themselves wavering as to which way they go: The way of truth or the way of Allah or the path lucratively laced for them by the Satan. And when one stumbles or is about to stumble, the inner-self pinches them to seek forgiveness for having even thought of being tempted to commit a sin.

The 16th verse of Surah 3. Al-i'Imran gives out a format for the believers as how to supplicate to Allah no sooner an evil and wicked thought comes to their mind or a step further by falling into the trap of Evil, given herein under:

اَلَّذِيۡنَ يَقُوۡلُوۡنَ رَبَّنَاۤ اِنَّنَاۤ اٰمَنَّا فَاغۡفِرۡ لَنَا ذُنُوۡبَنَا وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ​ۚ‏ 

(3:16) These are the ones who pray: 'Our Lord! We do indeed believe, so forgive us our sins and keep us safe from the chastisement of the Fire';

This verse describes the sincere believers who turn to Allah with a humble and repentant heart. In this three stepped verse, They:

• Affirm their belief: They declare their faith in Allah and acknowledge Him as their Lord.
• Seek forgiveness: They ask Allah to forgive their sins, showing their awareness of their shortcomings and need for divine mercy.
• Pray for protection from Hellfire: Their plea indicates their fear of Allah’s punishment and their hope in His protection.

The verse reflects the mindset of a true believer who combines faith with humility, repentance, and fear of Allah. Such a person recognizes their imperfections and constantly seeks Allah’s mercy and forgiveness.

It has been attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ who once said: “The one who repents from sin is like one who did not sin.” (Sunan Ibn Majah)

This hadith highlights the power of sincere repentance and supplication in erasing sins, mirroring the believers' plea for forgiveness in the verse.

Lessons Derived from the aforementioned Supplication:

• Importance of Repentance: The verse, along with the hadiths, emphasizes the need for sincere repentance and seeking Allah’s forgiveness.
• Humility and Supplication: Approaching Allah with humility and making heartfelt supplications is a sign of a true believer.
• Belief and Action: The verse demonstrates that true faith is not just a declaration; it is coupled with actions, such as seeking forgiveness and fearing the consequences of sins.

The verse and these hadith collectively remind believers of the importance of maintaining a humble, repentant attitude and constantly seeking Allah’s mercy. It should thus be borne in mind that whenever making a supplication, one must use this divine three-stepped format to making a supplication. We should not straightaway seek forgiveness. Rather, first we should affirm our faith and belief in Allah, for whiteout firm faith we can never be sure of acceptance of our supplication. Having done so, we should then seek forgiveness for the wrongs we have committed and reiterate our firm resolve not to repeat the same. Sine sins lead to the hell fire, we must seek Allah's mercy to save us for the torturous life of hell and earnestly invoke mercy of Allah to be forgiven and granted an abode in Jannatul firdous.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

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

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

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

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

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We are living in a time as forewarned by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

We are living in a time of intense social media information bombardment. Each day trillions of GBs are uploaded with information, mostly unauthenticated and misleading. So is true with the information related to religion and one's faith. Everyday when I open my laptop. I see lot of information which is mostly unauthenticated, without reference, even heresy about Islam, beside many other fields of knowledge. People comment and share on information shared by others and take it as authentic and find it a good excuse to debase Islam. There are ordinary Muslims too who share Islamic information, specially about hadiths attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ which are with weak references and no reference at all. 

This is something very alarming as most of the illiterate believers, even many  a literate too, who when hear such unauthentic information from their mentors and imams take these to be be true for they can never imagine their imam to be delivering them incorrect or unauthentic information. Now it becomes very difficult to convince such people about what is true or what is otherwise. This is exactly what Prophet Muhammad ﷺ warned of more than 1400 years ago for he know his own saying will be misquoted and things will be attributed to him which he never said.

Narrated Abu Hurayrahؓ  that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “There will be people in the last of my Ummah, who will be narrating to you what neither you nor your fathers heard; so beware of them.

Arabic Text:

عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، عَنْ رَسُولِ اللهِ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ أَنَّهُ قَالَ: «سَيَكُونُ فِي آخِرِ أُمَّتِي أُنَاسٌ يُحَدِّثُونَكُمْ مَا لَمْ تَسْمَعُوا أَنْتُمْ وَلَا آبَاؤُكُمْ، فَإِيَّاكُمْ وَإِيَّاهُمْ»

This hadith, mentioned in Sahi Muslim as Hadith number 15, is a warning from the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) about people in the later times of the Muslim community (Ummah) who will spread information, stories, or teachings that are not authentic and have no basis in the established teachings of Islam.

Explanation of the Hadith:

• "There will be people in the last of my Ummah": The phrase refers to people who will emerge during the later stages of the Muslim community, often interpreted as people who come after the time of the Prophet (ﷺ) and the early generations (Sahabah, Tabi’een, and their followers). This indicates that as time goes on, there will be more people who might deviate from the original teachings of Islam.
• "Who will be narrating to you what neither you nor your fathers heard": The Prophet (ﷺ) is warning that these individuals will convey stories, teachings, or religious information that are new and unfamiliar—things that were not known or taught by the Prophet (ﷺ) himself, his companions, or the early generations of Muslims.

This could include fabrications, innovations in religious practices (bid'ah), or misinterpretations that deviate from the authentic teachings of the Qur'an and Sunnah.

• "So beware of them": The Prophet (ﷺ) advises Muslims to be cautious of such people and not to accept their information without scrutiny. The warning emphasizes the need for critical thinking, verification, and adherence to the authentic and established sources of Islamic knowledge.

It reminds Muslims to be careful in following only the teachings that have a clear and authentic chain of transmission back to the Prophet (ﷺ) and not to be misled by new ideas or practices that contradict the Sunnah.

Lessons from the Hadith:

• Importance of Authenticity in Knowledge: Islam places a strong emphasis on ensuring that religious knowledge is authentic and traceable back to the Prophet (ﷺ). The hadith encourages Muslims to seek knowledge from reliable sources, such as the Qur’an and the verified Sunnah, and to be wary of unverified information.
• The Danger of Fabrications and Innovations (Bid'ah): The Prophet (ﷺ) warns against those who introduce new practices or beliefs that were not taught by him or practiced by the early generations. Such innovations (bid'ah) can lead to confusion and misguidance, pulling people away from the true teachings of Islam.
• Need for Caution and Verification: The hadith serves as a reminder that Muslims should be cautious when encountering new or unfamiliar teachings. Before accepting anything as religious knowledge, it should be verified against authentic sources. Scholars and learned individuals play a crucial role in helping the community discern the truth.
• Sticking to the Sunnah: By advising caution, the Prophet (ﷺ) indirectly encourages Muslims to adhere closely to the Sunnah and the understanding of the early generations (the Salaf). These generations are considered the best models for understanding and practicing Islam as they directly received and transmitted the teachings of the Prophet (ﷺ).

Application in Today’s Context:

In contemporary times, with the spread of information through the internet and social media, this hadith is particularly relevant. Many people claim to speak for Islam, but not all of them adhere to authentic teachings.

Muslims are encouraged to consult qualified scholars and verified sources of knowledge. It's essential to cross-check information and ensure it aligns with the established teachings of Islam before accepting or sharing it.

This hadith thus serves as a timeless warning for Muslims to remain vigilant and cautious when encountering new or unfamiliar teachings about Islam. It emphasizes the importance of sticking to authentic sources and the Sunnah, and of verifying religious information to avoid falling into misguidance.

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.

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

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Qisas (Retribution) and Diyat (Blood Money or Compensation) - understanding two pillars of Islamic Judicial System

Man has always liked violence and killing. Right from the earliest days of human life, the killing of Abel (Habil)  by Cain (Kabil) laid the foundation of killing for the sake of women which later spread over killing for usurping someone's wealth or position. We hear accounts of savagery when kings and their followers chanted and shouted as slaves were forced to fight the king's warriors and mercilessly butchered the undefended slaves for the pleasure of the kings. With now laws, such murders went on unabated for a long time, till sense better sense prevailed and murderers were brought to justice.

Islamic judicial system also lays down various punishments and modus operandi to bring justice to the families of those who have been harmed or killed, whether intentionally or otherwise. In this connection, today we share two terms that are often used to address cases of murder and physical harm. These two terms in Arabic are known as Qisas and Diyat. 

The concepts of Qisas (retribution) and Diyat (compensation or blood money) in Islam are central to the Islamic criminal justice system, particularly regarding cases of homicide, bodily harm, and injury. These concepts are derived from the Quran and the Hadith, and represent a balance between justice, mercy, and compensation. Here's an explanation of Qisas and Diyat in light of Islamic teachings:

Qisas (Retribution)

Qisas is the principle of "equal retaliation" or just retribution. In cases of murder or intentional bodily harm, the victim (or the victim’s family) has the right to seek retribution, which means the perpetrator may face a punishment that mirrors the crime committed. The idea of Qisas is rooted in justice, ensuring that the punishment fits the crime.

• Quranic Basis for Qisas:
• Surah Al-Baqarah (2:178): “O you who have believed, prescribed for you is legal retribution (Qisas) for those murdered—the free for the free, the slave for the slave, and the female for the female. But whoever overlooks from his brother anything, then there should be a suitable follow-up and payment to him with good conduct. This is an alleviation from your Lord and a mercy. But whoever transgresses after that will have a painful punishment.”
• This verse establishes the rule of retribution (equal retaliation) but also encourages mercy and forgiveness, showing a balance between strict justice and leniency.
• Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:45): “And We ordained for them therein a life for a life, an eye for an eye, a nose for a nose, an ear for an ear, a tooth for a tooth, and for wounds is legal retribution (Qisas). But whoever gives [up his right as] charity, it is an expiation for him. And whoever does not judge by what Allah has revealed - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.”
• This verse emphasizes the proportionality of punishment in the case of bodily harm and affirms that forgiveness or compensation (charity) can replace retribution, which is seen as an act of piety.
• Hadith on Qisas:
• The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "The people before you were destroyed because they used to inflict the legal punishments on the poor and forgive the rich. By Him in Whose Hand my soul is, if Fatimah (the daughter of the Prophet) did that (i.e., stole), I would cut off her hand." (Sahih Bukhari)
• This hadith reflects the principle of justice and fairness in Qisas, indicating that no one is above the law, regardless of their status.

Diyat (Blood Money or Compensation)

Diyat refers to the financial compensation paid to the victim or the victim’s family in cases of unintentional homicide or bodily injury, or as an alternative to Qisas in intentional harm cases. The purpose of Diyat is to provide a means of reconciliation and alleviate potential hostility between families while offering a fair and just compensation for the crime.

• Quranic Basis for Diyat:

Surah An-Nisa (4:92): “And never is it for a believer to kill a believer except by mistake. And whoever kills a believer by mistake—then the freeing of a believing slave and a compensation payment (Diyat) presented to the deceased’s family [is required], unless they give [up their right as] charity. But if the deceased was from a people at war with you and he was a believer, then [only] the freeing of a believing slave; and if he was from a people with whom you have a treaty, then a compensation payment (Diyat) presented to his family and the freeing of a believing slave…”

This verse establishes Diyat as the required compensation in cases of unintentional manslaughter, and it emphasizes the option for the family to forgive (as an act of charity) rather than take compensation or seek retribution.

Surah Al-Baqarah (2:178): As mentioned above, this verse not only outlines the principle of Qisas but also indicates that the victim’s family may choose to accept Diyat instead of demanding retribution, showing flexibility and a path for forgiveness.

• Hadith on Diyat:

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "The Diyat (blood money) for a man is one hundred camels." (Sahih Muslim)

This hadith sets the standard amount for Diyat in the case of intentional or accidental killing. Over time, the amount of Diyat has been translated into monetary values based on local standards.

The Balance Between Qisas and Diyat:

Islam provides a system that balances strict justice with mercy and reconciliation. Here’s how these two concepts are applied:

• Qisas (Retribution):
• In the case of intentional murder or bodily harm, the victim’s family can seek Qisas, which means the perpetrator will face a similar punishment, such as execution for murder or similar injury for physical harm. 
• This is done to establish justice and deterrence, ensuring that the crime does not go unpunished.
• Diyat (Compensation):
• As an alternative to Qisas, the victim’s family can choose to forgive the perpetrator and accept Diyat (compensation). This can be a large financial sum or another agreed form of compensation. 
• Diyat is especially applied in cases of unintentional harm, where the intention was not to kill or injure, but an accident occurred.

Forgiveness and Charity:

Islam encourages forgiveness and mercy as a higher moral virtue. In many cases, the victim’s family is encouraged to forgive the perpetrator, which can lead to expiation of sins and greater reward from Allah. This forgiveness can be done with or without Diyat, depending on the family’s decision.

• Quranic Emphasis on Forgiveness: While Qisas and Diyat provide legal structures for dealing with crime, the Quran repeatedly emphasizes the virtue of forgiveness:

Surah Ash-Shura (42:40): "And the retribution for an evil act is an evil one like it, but whoever pardons and makes reconciliation - his reward is [due] from Allah. Indeed, He does not like wrongdoers."

This verse highlights that although retribution is allowed, forgiveness is highly encouraged, and those who forgive are promised a great reward from Allah.

Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:45): As mentioned earlier, the Quran speaks of retribution but adds that "whoever gives [up his right as] charity, it is an expiation for him," showing that pardoning is a means to cleanse one’s sins and earn divine favor.

• Hadith on Forgiveness: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) consistently encouraged forgiveness over retaliation:
• "He who shows no mercy to others, will not be shown mercy." (Sahih Muslim)
• "No one forgives except that Allah increases him in honor." (Sahih Muslim)

 These hadiths underline the higher spiritual reward for those who choose forgiveness over retribution.

Foregoing in view we learn that Qisas is the principle of equal retaliation or retribution in cases of murder or bodily harm. It ensures justice is served by mirroring the harm done to the victim. Diyat is the financial compensation given to the victim's family in cases of unintentional harm or when the family chooses to forgive instead of seeking retribution.

Islam promotes both justice and mercy, with forgiveness being highly encouraged, but not forced. The victim’s family has the right to decide between Qisas, Diyat, or forgiveness, depending on their circumstances and sense of justice. The system ensures fairness while allowing room for mercy, reconciliation, and spiritual growth through forgiveness. The combination of Qisas and Diyat reflects Islam's balanced approach to justice, protecting the rights of victims while encouraging mercy and social harmony.

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 | references: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

For more Q&A about Understanding Islam, please refer to our reference page: Understanding Islam - Frequently asked Q&A

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.

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Warning for those who are always begging from people (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Begging is the most undignified means of earning one's livelihood. There are people around us who find begging a better preposition to earn their livelihood than working and earn a respectful and dignified living. It wouldn't be wrong to say that for person who has no shame or dignity, begging is the best profession. I have seen beggars begging despite "earning" a handsome amount every day, which exceeds far from their daily requirements of sustenance. 

Always remember that their is a difference between a Dignified Poor and a Beggar. Read our following post to know the difference between a dignified poor and a beggar:

Who is a Dignified Poor “مسكين “and why should he be helped

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has strictly warned begging and has warned the beggars of very painful Divine wrath when all ends and Divine Court is established.

This Hadith is quoted in Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim: Book 12 The Book of Zakat / كتاب الزكاة /  Chapter 35: It is disliked to beg from people / باب  كَرَاهَةِ الْمَسْأَلَةِ لِلنَّاسِ ‏ ‏‏ / as Hadith number # 1040a as under:

Hamza. son of 'Abdullah, reported on the authority of his father that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: When a man is always begging from people. he would meet Allah (in a state) that there would be no flesh on his face.

Arabic Text:

وَحَدَّثَنَا أَبُو بَكْرِ بْنُ أَبِي شَيْبَةَ، حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ الأَعْلَى بْنُ عَبْدِ الأَعْلَى، عَنْ مَعْمَرٍ، عَنْ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ بْنِ مُسْلِمٍ، أَخِي الزُّهْرِيِّ عَنْ حَمْزَةَ بْنِ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ، عَنْ أَبِيهِ، أَنَّ النَّبِيَّ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ لاَ تَزَالُ الْمَسْأَلَةُ بِأَحَدِكُمْ حَتَّى يَلْقَى اللَّهَ وَلَيْسَ فِي وَجْهِهِ مُزْعَةُ لَحْمٍ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

Let us now present an Explanation of the Hadith:

• The Consequences of Habitual Begging: 
• The hadith emphasizes the negative consequences for a person who makes it a habit to beg from others unnecessarily. When someone continually seeks help from others, even when they do not truly need it, they degrade their own dignity and self-respect. The Prophet (ﷺ) warned that such a person will face a humiliating condition in the Hereafter, symbolized by the image of having "no flesh on his face."
• In Islamic tradition, the face represents honor and dignity. Therefore, the loss of flesh from the face signifies a loss of honor, respect, and dignity. It is a metaphor for the humiliation and disgrace that the person will face before Allah on the Day of Judgment.
• Dependence on Allah, Not People:
• Islam encourages self-reliance, hard work, and placing one’s trust in Allah, rather than depending on people unnecessarily. While it is permissible to seek help when truly needed, begging without necessity is discouraged because it reflects a lack of trust in Allah's provision.
• The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasized that a person should strive to be independent and avoid burdening others if possible. This hadith is a reminder that one's honor lies in trusting Allah and working hard to meet one’s needs, rather than relying on others through begging.
• Exceptions to the Prohibition on Begging:
• It is important to note that Islam makes allowances for those who are in genuine need. The prohibition in this hadith applies to those who beg unnecessarily or as a habit, not to those who are truly impoverished and have no means of support.
• There are other hadiths where the Prophet (ﷺ) mentioned specific cases where it is permissible to ask for help. For instance, those suffering from poverty, severe hardship, or being in a debt they cannot repay are not included in this warning.
• Encouragement for Dignity and Self-Sufficiency:
• The hadith aligns with the general teachings of Islam that encourage dignity, self-respect, and hard work. In another hadith, the Prophet (ﷺ) said: "It is better for any one of you to take a rope and bring a bundle of wood on his back (to sell it) than to ask someone who may give him or refuse to give him." (Sahih Bukhari 2074)
• This hadith reinforces the idea that even menial labor is preferable to begging, as it preserves a person’s dignity and reliance on their own efforts.

Lessons from the Hadith:

• Maintaining Dignity: Islam teaches believers to maintain their dignity and avoid unnecessary dependence on others. Habitual begging leads to a loss of personal and social honor and is discouraged.
• Trust in Allah’s Provision: One should place their trust in Allah for their sustenance and strive to earn an honest living rather than relying on others for handouts.
• Work over Begging: The hadith emphasizes that it is better to engage in work, even if it is hard or humble, rather than resorting to begging without a real need.
• Warnings for the Hereafter: The loss of flesh on the face is a symbolic punishment, showing how those who habitually beg without need will face humiliation in the Hereafter. It serves as a reminder that worldly actions have consequences in the Hereafter.

This hadith is a strong admonition against unnecessary and habitual begging, encouraging believers to maintain their self-respect, trust in Allah, and work for their sustenance. It highlights the value of dignity in Islam and teaches that one should not rely on others when they are capable of earning for themselves. It also conveys that those who engage in begging without need will face disgrace before Allah on the Day of Judgment, which is symbolized by the loss of flesh on their faces.

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.

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

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Lessons from Surah 49 Al Hujaraat (The Private Apartments) - The Surah of Manners

Every Surah / Chapter of Qur'an is based on a particular theme for the guidance of believers or even anyone including non Muslims reading Qur'an. These themes provide an insight to Divine Guidance and how to live in a society as per dictates of our Creator, Allah All Mighty.

Today we share the lessons we learn from Surah 45 AL Hujarat (The Private Chambers). This Surah contains instructions, manners and etiquettes to live a complete, clean and humble life in utter humility. That is why this Surah is also known as the Surah of Manners for it provides profound guidance on ethical behavior, social conduct, and interpersonal relations, particularly among Muslims. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining social harmony, treating others with respect, and fostering unity within the Muslim community.

Before we list down the lessons, let us understand what does the word Hujarat mean:

The word "Hujurat" (الحجرات) in Surah Al-Hujurat literally means "the rooms" or "chambers." It refers to the private rooms or apartments of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his wives. These chambers were part of the Prophet's mosque in Madinah, where his family lived.

The title of the surah, Al-Hujurat, is derived from verse 4, where the term "hujurat" is mentioned: "Indeed, those who call you, [O Muhammad], from behind the chambers (hujurat) - most of them do not use reason." (Qur'an 49:4)

This surah thus beside giving out some extremely useful lessons for our social life, it also mentions why this surah was revealed. In the pre-Islamic period, the coarse and rugged Bedouins of Arabia followed no etiquettes, specially when visiting someone's home. They would even barge into someone's house without seeking permission or would keep calling the name of the master of the house till he came out. The same happened to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as well. Therefore through this surah etiquettes of visiting the house of the Prophet ﷺ have been given out in the initial verses.

Hereinunder are key lessons we can learn from Surah Al-Hujurat:

* Note: We have given these lessons in jist form. For detailed exegesis of the surah, please read our earlier post: Surah Al Hujuraat الۡحُجُرٰتِ  (The Private Apartments): Exegesis of 49th chapter of Qur'an

Respect for Authority and the Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him)

Verses 1-5 teach Muslims to approach matters involving Allah and His Messenger with utmost respect and care. They should not act impulsively or raise their voices above the Prophet’s voice, demonstrating reverence for the Prophet's authority.

Lesson: Respect for leadership and religious authority is crucial. Today, we can apply this to respecting scholars and leaders who guide us in religious matters.

"O you who have believed, do not put [yourselves] before Allah and His Messenger but fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is Hearing and Knowing." (49:1)

Respecting Privacy

As mentioned in the premise above, etiquettes are taught how to visit the house of a Prophet of Allah or anyone, as mentioned in the following two verses:

(49:4) Surely most of those who call out to you, (O Prophet), from behind the apartments, are devoid of understanding.

(49:5) If they were patient until you went out to them, that would have been better for them. Allah is Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.

Verify Information Before Acting

Verse 6 warns against blindly accepting information from unreliable sources. It stresses the importance of verifying news to prevent harm and misjudgment.

Lesson: In today’s world of fast communication and social media, this verse reminds us to avoid spreading rumors or misinformation. Always verify facts before reacting or passing judgment.

"O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful." (49:6)

Promoting Reconciliation and Peace

Verses 9-10 emphasize the importance of resolving disputes and conflicts within the Muslim community. Believers should act as mediators and strive for peace and reconciliation.

Lesson: Muslims are encouraged to act as peacemakers, ensuring that disputes among fellow Muslims are resolved in a just and peaceful manner, and not to allow divisions to fester.

"The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy." (49:10)

Avoid Mockery, Defamation, and Slander

Verse 11 prohibits mocking or ridiculing others, as well as using offensive names or labels. It also cautions against defaming others, which destroys trust and respect within the community.

Lesson: We should treat others with dignity and refrain from insulting, mocking, or making fun of anyone, regardless of their social or ethnic background.

"O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them..." (49:11)

Avoid Suspicion, Spying, and Backbiting

Verse 12 strongly discourages believers from being suspicious of others, engaging in spying, or gossiping and backbiting, which are all destructive behaviors in relationships.

Lesson: These actions harm the social fabric and lead to mistrust and hatred. In daily life, we should avoid these negative habits and instead focus on building trust and respect.

"O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other..." (49:12)

Human Equality and the Dangers of Racism

Verse 13 is one of the most powerful statements on human equality in the Qur'an. It asserts that all people are equal regardless of race, ethnicity, or social status. The only measure of superiority is one's righteousness and piety (taqwa).

Lesson: This verse speaks against racism and tribalism. In the eyes of Allah, everyone is equal, and the only criterion that distinguishes people is their consciousness of Allah and good deeds.

"O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted." (49:13)

True Faith Requires Obedience to Allah

Verses 14-18 clarify that faith (iman) is more than just words; it requires sincere belief and action. True believers follow Allah’s commands and live according to His guidance, not merely claim to have faith.

Lesson: Claiming to be a believer is not enough; actions and sincerity matter. True faith manifests in behavior, such as fulfilling religious obligations and adhering to Islamic morals.

"The Bedouins say, 'We have believed.' Say, 'You have not [yet] believed; but say [instead], 'We have submitted,' for faith has not yet entered your hearts." (49:14)

Surah Al-Hujurat provides timeless guidance on how to cultivate an ethical and harmonious society based on mutual respect, equality, and social justice. Its teachings are applicable in everyday life, urging believers to be conscious of their behavior toward others, foster unity, and maintain the integrity of their faith through sincere actions.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎)  help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

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

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

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

You may also refer to our reference pages: Understanding Al Qur'an  and Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | 

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of the Qur'ān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, references of other sources which have been explored have also been given above. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

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

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also 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

Who is a Dignified Poor “مسكين “and why should he be helped (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

The socio-economic system of Islam is one of the best of all the Divine religions for it ensures provision of means of sustenance to even the most poor and the wretched. Tthe concept of Zakat, the obligatory charity,  which is also one of the five pillars of Islam, ensures sharing the surplus beyond a prescribed limit and depositing it into the Bait al Mall, the state treasury. And it is from here that the state helps out the poor by dolling out monthly stipends.

Besides Zakat, it is the voluntary charity / Sadaqah that adds and supports the Zakat for one knows precisely who is poor in one's neighbourhood and helped directly. Here the concept of Dignified Poor “مسكين “ emerges, the rightful recipients of alms / charity and Sadaqah. So who are these special class of poor? Prophet Muhammad ﷺ explains. 

This Hadith is mentioned in Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 24  Obligatory Charity Tax (Zakat) / كتاب الزكاة / Chapter 53:  The Statement of Allah 'Azza wa Jall: "... They do not beg people persistently. ..." (2:273) And who may be considered to have enough to be content and abstain from begging" / باب قَوْلِ اللَّهِ تَعَالَى: {لاَ يَسْأَلُونَ النَّاسَ إِلْحَافًا} وَكَمِ الْغِنَى) as Hadith 7150, given herein under:

Narrated Abu Huraira:

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "The poor person is not the one who asks a morsel or two (of meals) from the others, but the poor is the one who has nothing and is ashamed to beg from others."

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا حَجَّاجُ بْنُ مِنْهَالٍ، حَدَّثَنَا شُعْبَةُ، أَخْبَرَنِي مُحَمَّدُ بْنُ زِيَادٍ، قَالَ سَمِعْتُ أَبَا هُرَيْرَةَ ـ رضى الله عنه ـ عَنِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ لَيْسَ الْمِسْكِينُ الَّذِي تَرُدُّهُ الأُكْلَةُ وَالأُكْلَتَانِ، وَلَكِنِ الْمِسْكِينُ الَّذِي لَيْسَ لَهُ غِنًى وَيَسْتَحْيِي أَوْ لاَ يَسْأَلُ النَّاسَ إِلْحَافًا ‏"‏‏.‏

This hadith highlights that poverty is not simply defined by visible begging or asking for help. Instead, true poverty refers to the one who has little to nothing, but due to their dignity and self-respect, they are too ashamed to ask for help.

Explanation of the Hadith with Reference to the Qur’an

Several Qur'anic verses emphasize the importance of understanding the deeper reality of poverty and the obligations toward those who may not ask for help but are in need. Here are key references from the Qur’an that complement the teaching of this hadith:

• Surah Al-Baqarah (2:273) – The Dignified Poor
• Allah says in the Qur’an: “[Charity is] for the poor who have been restricted for the cause of Allah, unable to move about in the land. An ignorant [person] would think them self-sufficient because of their restraint, but you will know them by their [characteristic] sign. They do not ask people persistently. And whatever you spend of good – indeed, Allah knows of it.” (2:273)
• This verse closely aligns with the hadith. It describes a group of poor people who, despite their dire need, do not openly ask for help. Their poverty may not be visible to everyone because of their self-restraint and dignity, but they are indeed deserving of charity. This highlights the importance of being aware of those in need who may not ask.
• Surah Ad-Duha (93:9-10) – Do Not Repel the Needy
• In Surah Ad-Duha, Allah commands: “So as for the orphan, do not oppress [him]. And as for the petitioner, do not repel [him].” (93:9-10) 
• Although these verses advise not to turn away those who ask for help, they also imply the broader Islamic principle of kindness to those in need, whether they ask or not. The hadith complements this by reminding us that not everyone in need will ask, and we should look beyond those who are vocal about their needs.
• Surah Al-Ma’arij (70:24-25) – Charity for the Deprived
• Allah also says: “And those in whose wealth is a recognized right for the beggar and the deprived.” (70:24-25) 
• In this verse, Allah describes the righteous as those who have allocated a portion of their wealth for those who ask (beggars) and those who are deprived but may not ask for help. This supports the hadith's idea that there are poor people who do not openly seek assistance, yet they are still in need. A believer is encouraged to identify and support these individuals.
• Surah Al-Insan (76:8-9) – Giving Without Expectation
• Allah praises those who give to the poor, even without being asked: “And they give food, in spite of love for it, to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [saying], 'We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.'” (76:8-9) 
• This verse emphasizes that righteous people give without expecting anything in return, and they give proactively to the needy. This includes those who may not have the courage to ask. The hadith reflects this principle by defining the "true" poor as those who may not openly request help but are still deserving of assistance.

Differentiation between a Beggar and a Dignified Poor

In the light of the above hadith and references from Qur'an, we can clearly draw a line between a beggar and a dignified poor. A beggar is a professional whose job is to beg. I have myself seen beggars counting money running into thousands, yet they they are there next morning again begging for money. In fact the money in their pockets or sacks full of it back in their rag tag abode is no use to them. It is just their habit to beg.

On the contrary, the dignified poor, the miskeens, even though have nothing in their pocket, will never beg for charity. They may be thankful to Allah even if a piece of morsel goes down in their stomach, and yet never complain, for they know they are being tested of their faith to its extreme limits and would try as much as they can to pass through.

In essence, this hadith and the corresponding Qur’anic verses remind us that poverty isn’t just about visible need or asking for help. True poverty may be hidden, and it is the duty of believers to seek out and assist those who are too dignified to beg, ensuring that their needs are met despite their silence.

So let us be watchful for the Dignified Poor, who may be living next door and yet have never begged for charity or food. Remember, there is a hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as mentioned by Ibn 'Abbas informed Ibn az-Zubayr, "I heard the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, say, 'He is not a believer who goes to sleep with his stomach is filled while his neighbor goes hungry.'" This hadith points towards the dignified poor we should be mindful of and need our help, even a piece of date.

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.

For Hadiths on the subject, please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Sadaqah صدقة  / Voluntary Charity

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