Prophetic advice for the prayer leaders

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

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

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

Narrated by Abu Huraira:

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

Arabic Text:

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

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

Explanation of the Hadith:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lessons from the Hadith:

• Consideration and Compassion for Others: This hadith teaches that Islam values empathy and consideration for others. When leading communal worship, Muslims are encouraged to think about those who may have limitations and to be mindful of them.
• Moderation in Worship: Islam emphasizes balance and moderation. This hadith reminds us that acts of worship should not cause excessive difficulty, as the goal of worship is to bring ease, peace, and connection with Allah, not to burden anyone.
• Personal Freedom in Worship: Islam provides flexibility for individual worship. While congregational prayers require accommodation for others, individual worship can be prolonged as desired. This shows that while communal responsibilities prioritize others, personal worship is a private matter between the individual and Allah.
• Responsibilities of the Imam: The imam has a duty to ensure that the congregational prayer is inclusive and comfortable for everyone. This responsibility requires not only leadership but also sensitivity and compassion.
• Accessibility in Worship: This hadith reflects the accessibility of Islamic worship, accommodating the diverse needs of all participants. Whether young, elderly, healthy, or unwell, everyone should be able to participate in congregational prayer without hardship.

Practical Application:

• Shortening Congregational Prayers: The imam can choose shorter verses or chapters from the Qur'an to recite in congregational prayers and avoid prolonging the prayer unnecessarily.
• Personal Worship at One’s Own Pace: Individuals who wish to prolong their prayers or add extra voluntary prayers (nawafil) can do so in their personal worship without concern for others’ limitations.
• Community Sensitivity: Muslims are encouraged to be mindful of the needs and circumstances of others during any communal activity, especially worship, which is meant to be an experience of unity and ease.

This hadith beautifully balances the value of devotion with the importance of empathy. The Prophet (ﷺ) teaches that while individual worship can be extended as desired, communal worship should be accessible to all. This compassionate approach ensures that Islam’s acts of worship remain inclusive, accommodating the varying needs of the Muslim community.

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo: Pixabay| Source of 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.

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God do not give me more

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

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

My dear God

Do not give me a heart that does not mourns the sufferings of the mankind

Do not give me strength with which I weaken others

Do not give me wealth with which I consider others poorer than I

Do not give me knowledge that remains hidden inside me

Do not give me wealth the glitter of which obscures the hungry faces around me

Do not take me to such elevations from where I cannot see the depth of ignorance

Do not give a position of authority which  I may use to suppress others

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

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

My dear God

Give me all that which I can share with others

And become equal to others

Do I make my point in sharing this prayer?

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo | 

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

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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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Divine caution for the Niggards

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

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

وَلَا يَحۡسَبَنَّ الَّذِيۡنَ يَبۡخَلُوۡنَ بِمَاۤ اٰتٰٮهُمُ اللّٰهُ مِنۡ فَضۡلِهٖ هُوَ خَيۡـرًا لَّهُمۡ​ؕ بَلۡ هُوَ شَرٌّ لَّهُمۡ​ؕ سَيُطَوَّقُوۡنَ مَا بَخِلُوۡا بِهٖ يَوۡمَ الۡقِيٰمَةِ ​ؕ وَ لِلّٰهِ مِيۡرَاثُ السَّمٰوٰتِ وَالۡاَرۡضِ​ؕ وَاللّٰهُ بِمَا تَعۡمَلُوۡنَ خَبِيۡرٌ

(3:180) Those who are niggardly about what Allah has granted them out of His bounty think that niggardliness is good for them; it is bad for them. What they were niggardly about will turn into a halter round their necks on the Day of Resurrection. To Allah belongs the inheritance of the heavens and the earth; and Allah is well aware of what you do.

This verse applies to any people who refuse to come forward to support God’s message with that which God has bestowed on them of His bounty. They may think that their niggardliness serves their interests by protecting their wealth, keeping it in their hands, rather than spend it for a good purpose. It emphasizes:

• Condemnation of Greed and Hoarding: The verse speaks to those who hoard wealth, thinking it benefits them. Allah warns that this attitude is actually detrimental and harmful.
• Consequences in the Hereafter: The wealth they withheld will become a source of punishment. The phrase "Their necks will be encircled by what they withheld" indicates that their greed and miserliness will become a burden and cause them suffering in the Hereafter.
• Reminder of Allah’s Sovereignty: The verse reminds that ultimately, everything in the heavens and the earth belongs to Allah. What people have is a temporary gift from Allah, and it should be used in ways that earn His pleasure.

Related Hadiths

There are several hadiths that align with and emphasize the warning given in this verse:

• Hadith on Withholding Zakat: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

"Whoever is made wealthy by Allah and does not pay the zakat of his wealth, then on the Day of Resurrection his wealth will be made like a bald-headed poisonous snake with two black spots over the eyes. The snake will encircle his neck and bite his cheeks and say, 'I am your wealth, I am your treasure.'" (Sahih Al-Bukhari)

This hadith directly parallels the message of the verse, showing that those who withhold the obligatory charity (zakat) will face severe consequences, and their wealth will become a source of torment in the Hereafter.

• Hadith on Generosity and Wealth: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also said:

"Wealth is not diminished by giving in charity." (Sahih Muslim)

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

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

An eminent scholar and exegete of Qur'an Yusuf Ali Explains:

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

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

Lessons and Implications

• Warning Against Misuse of Wealth: The verse and hadiths collectively warn against greed, miserliness, and withholding wealth, especially when it comes to obligatory acts like zakat.
• Encouragement of Generosity: Allah encourages generosity, and those who are generous will find their reward with Him. Miserliness, on the other hand, brings harm both in this world and in the Hereafter.
• Accountability: The verse and hadith emphasize that everything people possess is a trust from Allah, and they will be accountable for how they use or misuse it.

In summary, Surah Al-Imran (3:180), in light of hadith, teaches that hoarding wealth and refusing to spend for the sake of Allah is harmful, and those who do so will face punishment. It encourages believers to be generous and fulfill their obligations, knowing that Allah is fully aware of their actions and will reward or punish accordingly.

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

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo | Resource References: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Input has also been taken from ChatGPT for expanding the meaning of the verse

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

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

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

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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A death no believer would ever desire

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

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

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

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

Explanation of the Hadith:

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

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

Lessons from the Hadith:

• Importance of Intention: The hadith highlights the significance of intention in Islam. Even if one is unable to participate in physical jihad, having the sincere intention to serve and defend the cause of Allah is essential. This intention is a reflection of one's commitment and sincerity toward their faith.
• Striving for the Cause of Allah: Jihad fi sabilillah encompasses various forms of striving, not limited to combat alone. It can include efforts such as educating others about Islam, spreading goodness, standing up for justice, and helping the oppressed. Muslims should be ready to engage in such efforts within their capacity.
• Avoiding Complacency: The hadith serves as a reminder to avoid apathy and complacency in religious duties. True faith requires readiness to act and serve the cause of Allah whenever necessary. Neglecting this sense of duty reflects a weakness in faith that resembles the behavior of hypocrites.
• Sincerity and Self-Reflection: The hadith encourages self-reflection. Believers should assess their level of commitment and sincerity. Do they possess the desire to support and defend their faith, or are they indifferent? Sincere faith involves more than just words; it requires the willingness to act when necessary.

Context and Broader Application of the Hadith:

While the hadith speaks specifically about the readiness for physical jihad, its broader application is relevant for Muslims in all times and circumstances. Muslims today may not face the same situation as in the Prophet’s (ﷺ) time, where physical defense of the Muslim community was often necessary. However, the principle remains:

• Muslims should strive to uphold justice, truth, and the values of Islam in their societies, using the means available to them (e.g., advocacy, charitable work, spreading knowledge, or supporting the oppressed).
• Maintaining a sincere and active intention to serve the cause of Allah, whether through physical, social, or intellectual means, is essential to preserving and demonstrating true faith.

In the light of above explanation, this hadith emphasizes the importance of being sincere and committed to defending and promoting the cause of Allah. It warns against the danger of hypocrisy that arises when a person is indifferent to the needs of their faith community. True believers should have an inner readiness and intention to act for the sake of Allah when needed, showing sincerity and dedication to their faith.

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source of 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

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.

Read More