When does a servant come nearest to his Lord

Man, and Jinns, have been created to worship Allah, and no one else. Nor they are to associate anyone with Him or to have share his powers for He alone is the Master and the Lord of he universe. Those who obey Allah as One True God and walk on the straight path shown by Him (as ordained in the Qur'an and augmented by Hadiths of His last Prophet Muhammad ﷺ).

Of those who walk His way, He loves and is always asking Him for help are the ones who will succeed not in this world, but in the life of the Hereafter in Paradise. Therefore, all believers must supplicate to him and move His countless mercies so that they are blessed and rewarded for their sincerity and obedience. 

While there is no format to be adopted to supplicate to Allah to invoke His unlimited mercies, Allah loves when His servants prostrate, which is the ultimate expression of showing humility and humbleness. This has been told to us by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which has been mentioned in Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim the Book (#4) of Prayers - كتاب الصلاة   / Chapter # 42 What Is to Be Said While Bowing and Prostrating / باب باب مَا يُقَالُ فِي الرُّكُوعِ وَالسُّجُودِ ‏) as Hadith number # 482 as under:

وَحَدَّثَنَا هَارُونُ بْنُ مَعْرُوفٍ، وَعَمْرُو بْنُ سَوَّادٍ، قَالاَ حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ اللَّهِ بْنُ وَهْبٍ، عَنْ عَمْرِو بْنِ الْحَارِثِ، عَنْ عُمَارَةَ بْنِ غَزِيَّةَ، عَنْ سُمَىٍّ، مَوْلَى أَبِي بَكْرٍ أَنَّهُ سَمِعَ أَبَا صَالِحٍ، ذَكْوَانَ يُحَدِّثُ عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ أَقْرَبُ مَا يَكُونُ الْعَبْدُ مِنْ رَبِّهِ وَهُوَ سَاجِدٌ فَأَكْثِرُوا الدُّعَاءَ ‏"‏‏.‏

Abu by Huraira reported: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: The nearest a servant comes to his Lord is when he is prostrating himself, so make supplication (in this state).

Body postures serve as an important way to communicate nonverbally with God or other higher power. and of all postures, Prostration is the ultimate that a man can go to please Allah for he touches his forehead on the ground wherein he glorifies and humbles himself in front of Allah (The God). 

The mark known as the “trace of prostration” (sīmā) that is mentioned in the Quran is well established in Islam as being a physical blemish on the forehead. 

It is the same position which was adopted by the angels when God asked them to bow in from of Adam, which they readily did. And it was the same prostration that Satan, the Iblees, refused out of sheer arrogance and self-pride, for which he was expelled from Paradise. Since then, prostration has become a vital part of the five obligatory prayers performed daily. 

Although, the followers of other Divine religions were ordained to prostrate too in front of God when praying, slowly and gradually it vanished from their prayers. 

Deuteronomy 9:18-20, 25-27 (Moses lay prostrate before God for 40 days and nights); 1 Chronicles 21:16-17; Matthew 26:39.

"And he (Jesus) went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless, not as I will, but as thou wilt." - New Testament (Matthew 26:39)  

Today, prostration is a forgotten posture of prayer for many Christians. Rather, prostrations are forbidden on the Lord's Day (Sunday) and during Paschaltide (Easter season) in honour of the Resurrection and are traditionally discouraged on Great Feasts of the Lord.

We Muslims are fortunate that till date we prostrate in front of Allah as did all the prophets of Allah including the last of them: Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.  Let us be near to Allah for He loves His servants in this state and by doing so, one gets the inner feeling of being nearer to Allah.

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

Please refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

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

Photo: | Caption | Prostration | Source of Hadith Other Sources of References: | 1 |

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Special supplication for Reverts after embracing Islam (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Embracing Islam is one of the most blessed things that can ever happen to a man. Certainly, leaving one's faith of birth and taking the Ultimate Decision to enter the fold of Islam is one of the most difficult, yet most rewarding decision that unfolds a life full of blessings of Allah. That is why whenever a non-Muslim embraced Islam, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ asked him to recite a beautiful supplication as a special gratitude to Allah for having guided him to accept Islam.

This Hadith is quoted in Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim (The Book (#48) Pertaining to the Remembrance of Allah, Supplication, Repentance and Seeking Forgiveness - كتاب الذكر والدعاء والتوبة والاستغفار   / Chapter # 10 The Virtue of Tahlil (Saying La Ilaha Ill-Allah), Tasbih (Saying Subhan Allah) And (Du'a) Supplication / باب فَضْلِ التَّهْلِيلِ وَالتَّسْبِيحِ وَالدُّعَاءِ ‏‏ ) as Hadith number # 2697a:

حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو كَامِلٍ الْجَحْدَرِيُّ، حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ الْوَاحِدِ، - يَعْنِي ابْنَ زِيَادٍ - حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو مَالِكٍ الأَشْجَعِيُّ عَنْ أَبِيهِ، قَالَ كَانَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم يُعَلِّمُ مَنْ أَسْلَمَ يَقُولُ ‏ "‏ اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي وَارْحَمْنِي وَاهْدِنِي وَارْزُقْنِي ‏"‏‏.‏

 

Abu Malik Ashaja'i reported on the authority of his father that whenever a person embraced Islam, Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) instructed him to recite: " O Allah, grant me pardon, have mercy upon me, direct me to the path of righteousness and provide me sustenance."

Since one's life before embracing Islam was a life lived in the darkness and without any direction, one should thank Allah and beseech Him to forgive his past life and shower upon him His mercy and keep him on the righteous path forever. From now on, one must sustain oneself on Halal means of sustenance and abstain from the lewdness of the past life.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also on another occasion recommended this supplication to a person who had come to the Prophet of Allah and asked him how should he beg his Lord in appropriate words so that his supplication is heard and responded to.

Explanation of Each Phrase

• اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي (Allahumma ighfir li) - "O Allah, grant me pardon"
• Meaning: This is a plea for Allah’s forgiveness for one’s sins. It reflects a recognition of human fallibility and a desire for spiritual purification.
• Quranic Reference:

Surah Al-Imran (3:135): "And those who, when they commit an immorality or wrong themselves [by transgression], remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins—and who can forgive sins except Allah?—and [who] do not persist in what they have done while they know."

• وَارْحَمْنِي (warhamni) - "Have mercy upon me"
• Meaning: This is a request for Allah's mercy, encompassing all forms of compassion and grace from Allah, both in this life and the hereafter.
• Quranic Reference:

Surah Al-A'raf (7:151): "Moses said, 'My Lord, forgive me and my brother and admit us into Your mercy, for You are the most merciful of the merciful.'"

• وَاهْدِنِي (wahdini) - "Direct me to the path of righteousness"
• Meaning: This is a supplication for guidance to the right path, asking Allah to show the way of truth, righteousness, and virtue.
• Quranic Reference: Surah Al-Fatihah (1:6): "Guide us to the straight path."
• وَارْزُقْنِي (warzuqni) - "Provide me sustenance"
• Meaning: This is a prayer for provision and sustenance, asking Allah to grant what is needed to live and sustain oneself, including both material and spiritual sustenance.
• Quranic Reference:

Surah Al-Baqarah (2:201): "But among them is he who says, 'Our Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good and in the Hereafter [that which is] good and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.'"

Significance of the Supplication: This supplication comprehensively covers the essential needs of a believer:

• Forgiveness: Seeking forgiveness is central to a Muslim’s relationship with Allah. It acknowledges human imperfection and the need for divine pardon.
• Mercy: Asking for mercy encompasses a broad spectrum of Allah's blessings and protection from harm.
• Guidance: Seeking guidance is a fundamental aspect of Islamic life, reflecting a desire to remain on the path of righteousness.
• Sustenance: Praying for sustenance includes both the physical needs necessary for survival and spiritual provisions needed for inner peace and faith.

This supplication, as taught by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), is a profound and comprehensive prayer encapsulating key aspects of a believer’s needs: forgiveness, mercy, guidance, and sustenance. Each phrase is deeply rooted in Quranic teachings, reflecting the holistic approach of Islam towards a balanced and righteous life. By reciting this supplication, a believer seeks to align their life with the divine will, ensuring both worldly well-being and spiritual success.

Just ponder over each of the four things mentioned in the supplication: One must begin by confessing his sins and pleading for pardon, and then asking for continued mercy of Allah Almighty. He should then seek protection from all the evils that surround him so that he is not deterred from walking on Sirat e Mustaqeem. And then in the last comes request for means of sustenance. This simple yet very powerful supplication provides us with a format as to plead to our Lord and ask for His countless favours on us.

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

Please refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

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

Photo | Source of Hadith

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

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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Do Muslims Worship Ka'bah and the Black Stone?

Makkah is the most sacred city for the Muslims all over the world, same as the Vatican City is to the Christians. Here in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, is located the Masjad Al Haraam (Arabic: ٱلْبَيْت ٱلْحَرَام, lit. 'The Sacred House') which houses the Ka'bah (Arabic: كعبة) - a cubical stone structure half covered by a heavy black covering with verses from Qur'an embroidered on it with gold threads.

Since the inception of Islam, non-Muslims have unleashed a number of misconceptions and disinformation not only about Islam, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and the Qur'an, but also misleading concepts about the Muslims worship. We have already shared our views on such misconceptions and disinformation, some of which are as under:

• Misleading concept of Moon god Allah
• Jews misconception of Islam as a religion of Idolators
• Disinformation about Islam

Today, in our series of posts on Understanding Islam - Frequently asked Q&A, we share yet another misconception: Do Muslims WORSHIP Ka'bah and the Black Stone?

Before we share the answer to this misconception, let us introduce Ka'bah to our readers who have least or know knowledge of what Ka'bah is. 

Ka'bah in center of Masjid Al Haram, Makkah (Photo: Wikimedia Common / Source]

• Ka'bah literary means a cube for the structure of Ka'bah is cubical stone structure. The Kaba is about 50 feet in length, 33 feet wide, and 45 feet tall. The four corners of the Kaba correspond with the four points of the compass. The stone structure is covered with black silk cloth on which embroidery of verses from Qur'an is done with golden threads. The covering called "Kiswah" is changed every year on the 9th od Islamic month Dul Hajj.
• On the eastern corner of the Ka'bah, a Black Stone has been installed (it can be seen installed in the photo above on the left corner of the Ka'bah encased in a silver frame). It is revered by Muslims as an Islamic relic which, according to Muslim tradition, dates back to the time of Adam and Eve, who received a stone when they were expelled from the heavens. And it was Prophet Ibrahim and his son who while building the Ka'bah structure had it installed on the eastern corner of the building.
• Ka'bah is also called Bayt Allah (Arabic: بيت الله, romanized: Bayt Allah, lit. 'House of Allah'). This does not mean that Allah has His abode in this building, rather it is a symbolic place towards which Muslims all over the world turn to offer their prayers five times a day. During Hajj and Umrah, the pilgrims take seven anti-clockwise circles, called Tawaf (circumambulation), around this building. Why it is done so, wait till you reach the end of this post and watch a video on the very misconception of Muslim worshipping this building.
• As per the information contained in the Qur'an, this structure was built by Prophet Ibrahim and his son Ismail (Abraham and Ishmail, peace be upon them) when the former visited the place called Makkah after many years when he left his wife Hajer and newly born son Ismail as directed by God. 
• Although the Ka'bah was supposed to be a center for worship of Allah, by and by, the place was taken over by the idolators of Arabia and at one time there were approximately 360 idols in and outside the Ka'bah.
• After most of Arabia accepted Islam, the Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him remove the idols and restored the Kaba to its essence. He restored it as a place where only one God is worshipped.

The Qur'an contains several verses regarding the origin of the Kaaba. It states that the Kaaba was the first House of Worship for mankind, and that it was built by Ibrahim and Ismail on Allah's instructions.

And remember Ibrahim and Ismail raised the foundations of the House (With this prayer): "Our Lord! Accept (this service) from us: For Thou art the All-Hearing, the All-knowing." [Quran, Al-Baqarah (2), Ayah 127] 

Verily, the first House (of worship) appointed for mankind was that at Bakkah (Makkah), full of blessing, and guidance for mankind. [Quran, Surah Al Imran (3), Ayah 96]

Behold! We gave the site to Ibrahim, of the (Sacred) House, (saying): "Associate not anything (in worship) with Me; and sanctify My House for those who compass it round, or stand up, or bow, or prostrate themselves (therein in prayer)." [Quran, Surah Al-Hajj (22), Ayah 26]

This was a short introduction to the building of Ka'bah. Those who want to read details, they may follow the resources references given at the end of the post. 

Coming over the controversary raised against Ka'bah for it being a building that Muslims worship. Perhaps it is because of the disinformation spread by the religious priests and scholars and those following them have accepted it plain and square. Those who have any doubts about, had they read the impartial sources, which abound the internet, they would have known the factual status of Ka'bah and why it is so important for the Muslims all over the world.

Herein under is the explanation:

• All religions have places of worship and their followers attend to religious ceremonies held therein. However, the placement of these religious centers, like the synagogues, churches and mandars, is not keeping any direction even within the same city, what to talk of their directional placing all over the world. That means a church may be facing south at one place, while another church may be facing in another direction in another place or country. And the same is true for the synagogues and the mandars. 
• However, since Islam fosters unity among all its followers, they face towards Ka'bah from anywhere around the world to offer their prayers. Thus, Ka'bah in fact sets the DIRECTION for all Muslims around the world to face towards it. And it is if for this reason, Ka'bah is also known as the Qibla, the direction. That means, the Muslims face Ka'bah to pray in harmony and not worship the building as the misconception prevails. That is some Muslims who live towards the west of the Kaaba they face the east. Similarly, if they live towards the east of the Ka'bah they face the west.

"And for those calling Muslims worshipping Ka'bah, it is clarified that the prayer that Muslim offer facing towards Ka'bah does not include any mention of the Ka'bah; none of its words refers to or addresses the Ka'bah itself. In Salah (Arabic for Prayer), Muslims praise Allah and supplicate Him alone. In this sense, praying towards the Ka'bah is an embodiment of full devotion and submission to Allah alone; He commanded Muslims to face the Ka'bah while praying and they do so. Ahd the Muslims been worshipping Ka'bah, their prayers should have been embodiment of words Ka'bah (like O Ka'bah have mercy on us or listen to our vows as idolators around the world address their idols) rather than that of Allah. Thus, No Muslim entertains the idea that the Ka'bah can bring any benefit or remove any harm; let alone think that the Ka'bah has any divine attribute." 

• Imagine almost two billion Muslims facing Ka'bah almost a t the same time from around the world as against the worshippers of other faiths who face no direction at all. 
• Idolators never stepover their idols when worshipping them. But in case of Ka'bah, the Muslim Adhan (Call for prayer) has been made from the roof top of the Ka'bah building during the times of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Had Muslims been worshipping the Ka'bah, would they dare stand atop their idol?

The Black Stone (Hijar Al Aswad) installed on eastern corner of the Ka'bah 

[Photo: Wikimedia Commons / Author: Amerrycan Muslim]

Now the misconception about the kissing of the Black stone, called Hajr Al-Aswad. Non-Muslims call Muslims idolators for they kiss this Black Stone. No Muslim worships this Black Stone for it is just a stone sent down from the Heave. Here We would like to quote a saying of Umer bin Abdul Khattab, the second Caliph of Islam who has been quoted as saying:

Narrated by `Abis bin Rabi`a: `Umar came near the Black Stone and kissed it and said "No doubt, I know that you are a stone and can neither benefit anyone nor harm anyone. Had I not seen Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) kissing you I would not have kissed you." [Source Sahi al Bukhari (Book on Hajj/ Chapter (50) What is said regarding the Black Stone)-Hadith 1597]

We hope after reading the aforesaid explanation, the misconception about Muslims worshipping Ka'bah will be settled. One may differ on religious matters, but spreading misconceptions to safeguard one's ideology and faith should not happen.

You may now listen to Dr Zakir A Naik, a prominent Muslim scholar of present times, answering the same question from a Hindu during one of his lectures on Islam and clarifying misconceptions:

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.

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

The viewpoint of Dr Naik in the video above about Ka'bah being in the center of the earth is debatable as no authentic scientific research points towards this claim. Please study the viewpoint expressed in references number 5-7 as given below.

You may read more posts on countering / responding to lies / misinformation and disinformation about Islam: The Rebuttal: Countering disinformation being spread about Islam (Reference Page)

You may also like to read an overview of the Ka'bah: Holy places of Islam: Ka'bah - the house of Allah

Photo: |Logo| |Ka'bah | References: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |

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

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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Is the reward for good [anything] but good? (Selected verses from Qur'an)

Al Qur'an, the fourth and the last of the Divine Scriptures (after Psalms, Torah and Bible) is embodiment of Divine commandments, advices and guidance so eloquently worded that one is really spellbound to read. And when one tries go into the depth of the meanings they contain, one is nothing but moved. And it is this Divine eloquence that attracts man when Qur'an is being recited, even if one does not understand the Arabic language in which it is written.

While the entire Qur'an makes a listener flow into its stream, Surah Ar Rahman, the 55th Chapter of Qur'an really drills each and every word of it deep inside the man and makes him to wonder that if the promises, assurances and reassurances of Allah are so eloquently said, especially the reward for those who have firm faith in Allah and strive hard to live a life according to the guidelines contained in this chapter, how befitting reward would be when one would be ushered into the Paradise as a reward for him being a faithful servant of Allah?  We have already shared the verse by exegesis / Tafsir of the Surah Ar Rahman and we would urge our readers to read the explanation of each verse. We assure you will be absorbed in each of its verses that will make you shudder with the Divine Power that moves each word and in response each muscle and nerve of your body. 

Today, we share the 60th verse of this beautiful Surah, in which Allah, after explaining the rewards of those who walk His way, have form Faith and live a life according to the Divine guidance, finally asks the believers: Is the reward for good [anything] but good?

بِسۡمِ اللهِ الرَّحۡمٰنِ الرَّحِيۡمِ

هَلۡ جَزَآءُ الْاِحۡسَانِ اِلَّا الۡاِحۡسَانُ​ۚ‏ 

(60) Is the reward for good [anything] but good?

That is, "How, after all, is it possible that Allah should allow to go waste the sacrifices of those righteous servants and should deny them their rewards, who kept themselves subjected to restrictions throughout their lives for the sake of Allah, who avoided the unlawful and remained content with the lawful, who performed their duties faithfully and sincerely, rendered the rights of those to whom rights were due, and endured hardships against evil and upheld good?

Tafsir Ibn-Kathir: Allah declares that in the Hereafter, all that is good and righteous is the only befitting reward for those who do good deeds in this life,

(For those who have done good is best (reward) and even more.) [10:26] 

All of these are tremendous blessings that cannot be earned merely by good deeds, but by Allah's favor and bounty, after all of these He says; (Then which of the blessings of your Lord will you both deny)

Yusuf Ali Explanation: This is the summing up of all the description used to express the Fruit of Goodness or Good. But the fullest expression can only be given in abstract terms: "Is there any reward for Good-other than Good?" Can anything express it better?

Javed Ahmad Ghamidi Explanation:

The implication is that the reward of virtue can only be given in the form of blessings and favours; it can never be vice or indifference. Amīn Aḥsan Iṣlāḥī writes:

… Since this is something very clearly grounded in human nature and no sensible person in his senses can deny it, it has been stated in a manner which reflects it being an obvious reality. The word اِحۡسَان is used for piety as well as for the reward of piety. In this verse, it is used very eloquently in both these meanings. (Amīn Aḥsan Iṣlāḥī, Tadabbur-i Qur’ān, vol. 8, 148)

Tafsir Qur'an Wiki:

All this comes as the reward for a person who stands in this life in fear of his Lord's presence and worships Him as if he sees Him. He feels that God sees him and he works to attain the superior grade of excellence that the Prophet described as "to worship God as if you see Him. If you do not, then know that He sees you." As such they deserve more from the Lord of Grace for their excellence: "Shall the reward of good be anything but good?" (Verse 60)

Read the entire Surah Ar Rahman, and I promise you that when you reach this verse, you will feel a reassurance you may have never ever encountered in your worldly life.

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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 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 | Tafsir References:| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs 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 order to augment and add more explanation as already provided, additional input has been interjected from the following sources: 

• Tafsir Ibn Khatir
• Muhammad Asad Translation
• Yusuf Ali Translation
• Translation Javed Ahmad Ghamidi / Al Mawrid
• Qur'an Wiki
• Verse by Verse Qur'an Study Circle
• Towards Understanding the Quran

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.

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

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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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Prophetic Supplication which was dearer to him than anything over which the sun rises

Allah, the Lord of the Universe, listens to us provided we address Him with attributes befitting His Greatness and Magnanimity. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ always advised his companions that while making a supplication, they must first acknowledge Allah's greatness and his many attributes. 

We share a Prophetic Supplication, which dearer to him, as quoted in Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim (The Book (#48) Pertaining to the Remembrance of Allah, Supplication, Repentance and Seeking Forgiveness - كتاب الذكر والدعاء والتوبة والاستغفار   / Chapter # 10 The Virtue of Tahlil (Saying La Ilaha Ill-Allah), Tasbih (Saying Subhan Allah) And (Du'a) Supplication / باب فَضْلِ التَّهْلِيلِ وَالتَّسْبِيحِ وَالدُّعَاءِ ‏‏ ) as Hadith number # 2695:

حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو بَكْرِ بْنُ أَبِي شَيْبَةَ، وَأَبُو كُرَيْبٍ قَالاَ حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو مُعَاوِيَةَ، عَنِ الأَعْمَشِ، عَنْ أَبِي صَالِحٍ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ "‏ لأَنْ أَقُولَ سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ وَالْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ وَلاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ وَاللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ أَحَبُّ إِلَىَّ مِمَّا طَلَعَتْ عَلَيْهِ الشَّمْسُ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

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

The uttering of (these words):" Hallowed be Allah; all praise is due to Allah, there is no god but Allah and Allah is the Greatest," is dearer to me than anything over which the sun rises.

Prophetic supplications provide us with the best worded supplications to invoke the countless mercies of Allah. We should to remember these by heart or at least recite these by reading so many prophetic supplications that are mentioned in the Hadith books.

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: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

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

Source of Hadith

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

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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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Rising of the sun from the west: The Doomsday Prediction (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

There have been many theories about the possibility of the sun rising from the west. There have been many a argument for and against this to be happening. Those propagating such theories are of the opinion that a magnetic field reversal may change the motion of the earth in the opposite direction, thereby the sun being seen rising from the west.

Herein under are some of the viewpoints of astronomers and scientists who argue in favour of such a phenomenon:

Climate researchers believe we are heading towards a reversal of the planet's magnetic field, which some fear will lead to the end of the human race and even wipe out the neanderthals. This may entail a swap of the magnetic poles from north to south would shift the continents so fiercely it would trigger mass earthquakes, rapid climate change, extinctions and global destruction.[1]

Although the earth would start spinning from west to east, the atmosphere would not be able to change track so fast. This would lead to supersonic winds and hurricanes and mega-tsunamis of such magnitude that they would destroy all man-made natural structures on the ground, along with nearly all living things. Unless you conveniently happened to be shopping in a subterranean mall or sulking in a bunker of sorts, you would be ancient history. But if the earth starts its reverse-rotation slowly, gradually, then the aftermath may not be as catastrophic. [2]

NASA has been tight lipped on the subject. But it published an explanatory article on December 1, 2011 about the phenomenon of the Earth's magnetic field reversal, titled “2012: Magnetic Pole Reversal Happens All The (Geologic) Time” indicating that this phenomenon has occurred several times over the past thousands of years, and it is a “rule, not an exception”. [3]

In the above quoted two references, it is the opinion that if such thing, rising of the sun from the west happens, there will be chaos on the earth which may ultimately lead to the destruction of the planet earth - the Doomsday happening.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, while interpreting the 158th verse of Surah 6. Al-An'am given herein under has explained te rising of the sun from the west: 

هَلۡ يَنۡظُرُوۡنَ اِلَّاۤ اَنۡ تَاۡتِيَهُمُ الۡمَلٰۤـئِكَةُ اَوۡ يَاۡتِىَ رَبُّكَ اَوۡ يَاۡتِىَ بَعۡضُ اٰيٰتِ رَبِّكَ ؕ يَوۡمَ يَاۡتِىۡ بَعۡضُ اٰيٰتِ رَبِّكَ لَا يَنۡفَعُ نَفۡسًا اِيۡمَانُهَا لَمۡ تَكُنۡ اٰمَنَتۡ مِنۡ قَبۡلُ اَوۡ كَسَبَتۡ فِىۡۤ اِيۡمَانِهَا خَيۡرًا​ ؕ قُلِ انْتَظِرُوۡۤا اِنَّا مُنۡتَظِرُوۡنَ‏ 

(6:158) What! Do they wait either for the angels to appear before them or for your Lord to come unto them or for some clear signs of your Lord to appear before them? When some clear signs of your Lord appear, believing will be of no avail to anyone who did not believe before, or who earned no good deeds through his faith. Say: 'Wait on; we too are waiting.'

This Hadith is mentioned in Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī  (Book 65 - Prophetic Commentary on the Qur'an (Tafseer of the Prophet (pbuh)) كتاب التفسير / Chapter 10: "The day that some of the signs of your Lord do come, no good will it do to a person to believe..." (V.6:158) (10)باب ‏{‏لاَ يَنْفَعُ نَفْسًا إِيمَانُهَا‏}‏ ) as Hadith 4636, given herein under:

حَدَّثَنِي إِسْحَاقُ، أَخْبَرَنَا عَبْدُ الرَّزَّاقِ، أَخْبَرَنَا مَعْمَرٌ، عَنْ هَمَّامٍ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ ـ رضى الله عنه ـ قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ "‏ لاَ تَقُومُ السَّاعَةُ حَتَّى تَطْلُعَ الشَّمْسُ مِنْ مَغْرِبِهَا فَإِذَا طَلَعَتْ وَرَآهَا النَّاسُ آمَنُوا أَجْمَعُونَ، وَذَلِكَ حِينَ لاَ يَنْفَعُ نَفْسًا إِيمَانُهَا ‏"‏‏.‏ ثُمَّ قَرَأَ الآيَةَ‏.‏

Narrated by Abu Huraira:

Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "The hour will not be established till the sun rises from the West; and when it rises (from the West) and the people see it, they all will believe. And that is (the time) when no good will it do to a soul to believe then." Then he recited the whole Verse (6.158)

Many may today, especially non-Muslims will mock the Hadith, as they have always done, despite the fact that in the Qur'an, many mentions are made which science has only proven in the last couple of centuries. That is the complex process of childbirth the presence of steel on earth which has been in fact a foreign body, and many other indicators for man to ponder upon. 

Likewise, someday science will be advances to ponder over this Hadith and may come to know that such a possibility exists and will be the turning point in our earthly life when it will cease to exist. Let us wait to see the science to mature to a level when someone will be able to interpret the Quranic verses and aforesaid Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. 

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: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

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

Photo | Source of Hadith | Resource references: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

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

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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Reward for hurrying up for Friday Congregation (Salat al Jumu'ah)

Friday Congregation - Salat al Jumu'ah assumes a great importance in the lives of Muslims around the world. It is on this day that the otherwise Dhur (noon) prayer is offered in the masjid en masse. We have already shared a number of posts on the importance of the Friday Congregation, dwelling on its importance and how to offer this prayer.

Today we share a Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in which emphasizes on hurrying up for the Friday Congregation and its rewards of varying degrees. 

This Hadith is mentioned in Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī  (Book 11 - Friday Prayer كتاب الجمعة / Chapter 31: To listen to the Khutba (religious talk) on Friday باب الاِسْتِمَاعِ إِلَى الْخُطْبَةِ ) as Hadith 929, given herein under:

حَدَّثَنَا آدَمُ، قَالَ حَدَّثَنَا ابْنُ أَبِي ذِئْبٍ، عَنِ الزُّهْرِيِّ، عَنْ أَبِي عَبْدِ اللَّهِ الأَغَرِّ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، قَالَ قَالَ النَّبِيُّ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ "‏ إِذَا كَانَ يَوْمُ الْجُمُعَةِ، وَقَفَتِ الْمَلاَئِكَةُ عَلَى باب الْمَسْجِدِ يَكْتُبُونَ الأَوَّلَ فَالأَوَّلَ، وَمَثَلُ الْمُهَجِّرِ كَمَثَلِ الَّذِي يُهْدِي بَدَنَةً، ثُمَّ كَالَّذِي يُهْدِي بَقَرَةً، ثُمَّ كَبْشًا، ثُمَّ دَجَاجَةً، ثُمَّ بَيْضَةً، فَإِذَا خَرَجَ الإِمَامُ طَوَوْا صُحُفَهُمْ، وَيَسْتَمِعُونَ الذِّكْرَ ‏"‏‏.‏

Narrated by Abu Huraira:

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "When it is a Friday, the angels stand at the gate of the mosque and keep on writing the names of the persons coming to the mosque in succession according to their arrivals. The example of the one who enters the mosque in the earliest hour is that of one offering a camel (in sacrifice). The one coming next is like one offering a cow and then a ram and then a chicken and then an egg respectively. When the Imam comes out (for Jumua prayer) they (i.e. angels) fold their papers and listen to the Khutba."

It can be seen that believers who rush up to the masjids earlier than the rest have a greater reward than those who join the congregation at the very last. While the Hadith signifies the importance of the Salat al Jumu'ah, it also signifies the Divine love for the believers who can amass blessings of Allah for even small acts and get blessed.

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: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

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

Photo | Source of Hadith

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

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