No share in the Hereafter for those who sell away their oaths for a small price

Keeping covenants and taking oaths is one of the most sacred obligation for men of any faith. Whether these oaths are taken as a pledge to Allah for keeping our faith intact as commanded to us in all Divine Scriptures or when making a pledge between two or people, the importance of keeping the oaths respected remains the same. 

Although, the 77th verse of Surah 3. Al-i'Imran is related to the making and breaking of the covenants by Jews that they made with Allah, the importance of keeping covenants and oaths is equally applicable to us in our day to day dealings. We will not go into the historical perspective of this verse as is discussed in the earlier verses, for it is not the subject for sharing this verse today. Instead we  will correlate this verse concerning us as applicable today.

We see oaths and covenants broken every day, specially by the leaders of a country to secure a position of authority and then breaking their oaths to the people, leaving them in the same state as they were since long. This is practically demonstrated when elections in a country are held and prior to it, tall promises are made and yet these not being fulfilled when the former are successful and assume positions of authority. Likewise, we see witnesses taking oaths on holy books, yet selling away their oaths afterwards for a few pennies. 

It is for all those who break their promises, oaths and covenants that the following verse is beige shared as a warning for Allah does not like such dishonest people and promises them no place in the Hereafter, that is Paradise. Instead these people will rot and burn in blazing fire of hell for deceiving others.   

اِنَّ الَّذِيۡنَ يَشۡتَرُوۡنَ بِعَهۡدِ اللّٰهِ وَاَيۡمَانِهِمۡ ثَمَنًا قَلِيۡلًا اُولٰٓـئِكَ لَا خَلَاقَ لَهُمۡ فِى الۡاٰخِرَةِ وَلَا يُكَلِّمُهُمُ اللّٰهُ وَلَا يَنۡظُرُ اِلَيۡهِمۡ يَوۡمَ الۡقِيٰمَةِ وَلَا يُزَكِّيۡهِمۡ وَلَهُمۡ عَذَابٌ اَ لِيۡمٌ‏ 

(3:77) There shall be no share in the Life to Come for those who sell away the covenant of Allah and their oaths for a trivial gain. On the Day of Resurrection Allah will neither address them, look at them, nor will He purify them. A painful chastisement lies ahead of them.

AS for the explanation of this verse in view of its historical perspective, it is being said: Although they (Jews) were guilty of the blackest sins, yet they had taken it for granted that they would rise as the favourites of God on the Day of Resurrection and they alone would receive His blessings and favours, for they would be rescued from the consequences of the sins they committed in this world by the intercession of their saints in the Next World, but the fact is that they will be dealt with on that Day in quite a different manner. 

Tafsir Ibn-Kathir: There is No Share in the Hereafter for Those Who Break Allah’s Covenant

Allah states that whoever prefers the small things of this short, soon to end life, instead of fulfilling what they have promised Allah by following Muhammad , announcing his description ﴿from their books﴾ to people and affirming his truth, then, (they shall have no portion in the Hereafter.)

They will not have a share or part in the Hereafter’s rewards, (Neither will Allah speak to them nor look at them on the Day of Resurrection) with His mercy. This Ayah indicates that Allah will not speak words of kindness nor look at them with any mercy, (nor will He purify them) from sins and impurities. Rather, He will order them to the Fire, (and they shall have a painful torment.)

There are several Hadiths on the subject of this Ayah, some of which follow. 

The First Hadith: Imam Ahmad recorded that Abu Dharr said, “The Messenger of Allah said, (There are three persons whom Allah will not speak to, look at on the Day of Resurrection or purify, and they shall taste a painful torment. I said, `O Messenger of Allah! Who are they, may they gain failure and loss’ He said, repeating this statement thrice, `The Musbil (man whose clothes reach below the ankles), he who swears while lying so as to sell his merchandize and the one who gives charity and reminds people of it).’)” This was also recorded by Muslim, and the collectors of the Sunan. 

Another Hadith: Imam Ahmad recorded that `Adi bin `Amirah Al-Kindi said, “Imru’ Al-Qays bin `Abis, a man from Kindah, disputed with a man from Hadramut in front of the Messenger of Allah concerning a piece of land. The Prophet required the man from Hadramut to present his evidence, but he did not have any. The Prophet required Imru’ Al-Qays to swear to his truthfulness, but the man from Hadramut said, `O Messenger of Allah! If you only require him to swear, then by the Lord of the Ka`bah (Allah), my land is lost.’ The Messenger of Allah said, (Whoever swears while lying to acquire the property of others, will meet Allah while He is angry with him.)” Raja’ one of the narrators of the Hadith, said that the Messenger of Allah then recited, (Verily, those who purchase a small gain at the cost of Allah’s covenant and their oaths…) Imru’ Al-Qays said, `What if one forfeits this dispute, what will he gain, O Messenger of Allah’ The Prophet answered, `Paradise.’ Imru’ Al-Qays said, `Bear witness that I forfeit all the land for him.”’ An-Nasa’i also recorded this Hadith.

Note:  You may like to read one of our earlier posts related to the subject being discussed: Grave consequences for those who take false oath to unlawfully take the right of another Muslim, based on a Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

Javed Ahmad Ghamidi Explanation:

(On the other hand, those who sell the covenant of God) The covenant referred to here is the one which was taken from the Jews regarding the sharī‘ah of the Almighty and the last prophet of God.

(and their own oaths) This refers to the oaths they had sworn at the time of making a covenant to support and back the prophets of God, in particular the unlettered prophet. In verse 81 ahead, this covenant and these oaths are mentioned.

(for a trivial price have no share in the world to come. And God shall neither speak to them nor look at them with favour, nor purify) The implication is that their crimes are not such that the Almighty may cleanse them after a little punishment; such is the heinous nature of their crimes that their only punishment can be eternal Hell.

(them [from their sins] on the Day of Judgement. In fact, a grievous punishment awaits them there.)  Everyone can have an idea of the extent of hate and disgust for the Jews concealed in the words of the verse. The status they had been invested with by the Almighty and the way He dealt with them thereafter entailed that they be treated thus. Details are mentioned in Sūrah al-Baqarah. A person who is aware of them will not be surprised at this hate and disgust expressed.

Tafsir Qur'an Wiki:

Those who betray their trust and do not honour their pledges are indeed people who “barter away their covenant with God and their oaths for a trifling gain.” In matters of pledges and trust the relationship is between man and God in the first place although the pledges are made to other people. For this reason, people who do not honour their agreements have no share with God in the life to come. The betrayal of their trust and pledges is perpetrated for only a trifling gain, for something which is available in this life. Therefore, as punishment for their disavowal of His covenant, and their pledge to convey His message to other people, God does not care for them.

 

Here, the Qur’ān employs its familiar method of drawing an image in order to express a certain attitude. God’s neglect of such people and the fact that He withdraws His care from them are described in terms of His not speaking to them, looking at them or cleansing them. These are all familiar symptoms of neglect. The Qur’ān chooses to make use of them in order to draw a vivid image of what happens on the Day of Judgement. In this way, the verses have a much more profound effect on man than a mere statement of fact.

This verse should serve as a stern Divine Warning to all those who do not keep their oaths intact, specially by selling these away for a small price for their worldly gains. We too must take care of our oaths and promises, for breaking away from these may hurt many others to whom these promises and oaths mattered. Let us not invite the Divine wrath, both in this world and in the Hereafter.

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 refer to our reference page: Important DOs and Don'ts from Qur'an to read more directives on the subject.

You may refer to our reference page: Believers!! Beware of the Rules of the Divine Court on the Day of Judgement to read more directives on the subject. 

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 | 

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.

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

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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Understanding Divorce in Islam

Allah created this world for the peaceful coexistence between man and woman. And thus provided immense means of sustenance so that they could not fell absence of means to live a peaceful life. Going a step further, the concept of marriage was given so that a man and woman could live together to bring peace to each other by mutual love, solace, comfort with a sense of belonging. 

It is stated in Surah 30 Ar Rum, verse 21: And one of His signs is that He created for you spouses from among yourselves so that you may find comfort in them. And He has placed between you compassion and mercy. Surely in this are signs for people who reflect. 

Marriage, therefore in Islam, is much more than physical intimacy between man and wife. It is more to do with satisfaction of emotions which get disturbed in our pursuit for finding means of sustenance. Generally, man is made responsible to make all possible arrangements for a peaceful living for his wife and the offspring. The wife on the other hand has been entrusted to manage the household. Some liberal women take this responsibility as a burden and feel that they are being made a servant rather than a wife. But they fail to understand that it is the man who is running around day  and night to find means that can ensure a peaceful living for his family. And if this fine equation is not understood, the very sacred institution of marriage beings to crumble and may end up in the most disliked world of divorce (Arabic: الطلاق, aṭ-talāq). 

In Islam, giving divorce “for no reason” is NOT encouraged either for males or females. God says to try, as much as possible to reconcile. He said in 4:127, “peace is best”. In fact, divorce is the most hated and unpleasant thing in Islam. The most detestable of lawful thing nears near Allah is divorce. Despite the Islam permits divorce as it becomes inevitable in some extreme situations when it is not possible for the husband and wife to pull on together.

It is reported from Ibn-Umar that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “In the sight of Allah subḥānahu wa ta'āla (glorified and exalted be He), the worst of all halal (lawful) acts is talaq (divorce).”

Generally some of the reasons for seeking divorce in Islam include physical, mental, or emotional abuse, incompatibility, infidelity, and failure to fulfill responsibilities.. However, when when a situation has arisen that a  man and wife cannot live with each other, and that the marital harmony is no more possible, efforts must be made both by the man and wife, as well as all members of the family and friend to avert a  divorce should such a situation arise. 

The Qur'an promotes reconciliation, through negotiated settlements between the spouses themselves or the use of arbitrators from their families. However, when “mutual good treatment” is not possible, there should be an amicable parting. Thus, the Qur'an treats divorce as something permitted but not laudable.

"If you divorce women, and they reach their appointed term, hold them back in amity or let them go in amity. Do not hold them back out of malice, to be vindictive. Whoever does this does himself injustice." (Surah 2. al Baqarah:231) 

If despite all efforts, a reconciliation is not reached, the husband pronounces the phrase “I divorce you” (in Arabic, talaq) to his wife. A man may divorce his wife three times. Institutionally, the three divorces should not be pronounced at one time. Rather, after pronouncing each divorce, a one should wait for sometime, normally three months, to pronounce the second divorcee. For this provides a leverage for the husband to still think over his decision and take back her wife after the first two (reconciling). After the third divorce they can't get back together until she marries someone else.

The Quran also sets waiting periods to discourage hasty divorces.[6] For a menstruating woman, the waiting (Iddah) period before the divorce is finalized, as three monthly periods.[9] For non-menstruating women, including post-menopause women and pre-menarche girls, the waiting period is three months.[10] This is to give the husband time to reconsider his decision.[6] Moreover, a man who vows not to have sexual intercourse with his wife, which would lead to automatic divorce, is allowed a four-month period to break his oath.

While a it is the husband who generally pronounces divorce, Islam provides equal opportunity for the wife to seek divorce, called Khula in Arabic. If a husband denies his wife's request for khula, the wife can seek the assistance of an Islamic court or a qualified scholar to help resolve the matter. In some cases, the court or scholar may attempt to mediate between the husband and wife to find a resolution that is acceptable to both parties.

Detailed instructions on divorce are given in Surah 4. An Nisa (The Women) and Surah 65. At Talaq (Divorce).

Please watch an enlightening video below by one of the most eminent scholars of present times, Nouman Ali Khan:

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

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

That is Our duty 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 refer to our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on some of the important issues and explanations related to Islam Qur'an and Sunnah. 

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 | References: Divorce in Islam (Wikipedia) | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |

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

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

The genesis of Muslims’ salutation (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

It is both norm and customary that whenever tow people meet they always greet each other. In the Western world, these salutations are generally restricted to wishing each other according to the time of the day, like Good Morning or Good Evening. In Indian culture, it is generally bowing with two hands joined together followed by greeting words like Namaste, a word that comes from Sanskrit and literally means “bowing to you” or “I bow to you,”  However, generally none of the greetings carry a supplication, wishing to convey peace on the recipient.

The Muslim salutation, on the contrary, is a combination of salutation and prayer. Although, genrally Muslims greet each other with the phrase As-salamu alaykum (ٱلسَّلَامُ عَلَيْكُمْ, that means 'Peace be upon you', the complete and wholesome greeting is like: As-salāmu ʿalaykum wa-raḥmatu -llāhi wa-barakātuhū (ٱلسَّلَامُ عَلَيْكُمْ وَرَحْمَةُ ٱللَّٰهِ وَبَرَكَاتُهُ, which means:  'Peace be upon you, as well as the mercy of God and His blessings'. So while the Muslims greet each other like any other non-Muslims, they also add that Mercy and Blessings of Allah may also shower on the recipient. 

This salutation phrase appears seven times in the Quran, each time Salamun ʿalaykum ( سَلَامٌ عَلَيْكُمْ). However, Classical Arabic, used in the Qur'an and early Hadith manuscripts, the phrase is spelled as ٱلسَّلَٰمُ عَلَيْكُمْ وَرَحْمَتُ ٱللَّٰهِ وَبَرَكَٰتُهُ. In Rasm, it is written as السلم علىکم ورحمٮ ال‍له وٮرکٮه.

Surah Al-An'am (6), Ayah 54:

وَإِذَا جَآءَكَ ٱلَّذِينَ يُؤْمِنُونَ بِآيَاتِنَا فَقُلْ سَلَامٌ عَلَيْكُمْ ۖ كَتَبَ رَبُّكُمْ عَلَىٰ نَفْسِهِ ٱلرَّحْمَةَ ۖ أَنَّهُۥ مَنْ عَمِلَ مِنكُمْ سُوٓءًۢا بِجَهَالَةٍۢ ثُمَّ تَابَ مِنۢ بَعْدِهِۦ وَأَصْلَحَ فَأَنَّهُۥ غَفُورٌۭ رَّحِيمٌۭ

"When those who have faith in Our signs come to you, say, 'Peace to you! Your Lord has made mercy incumbent upon Himself: whoever of you commits an evil [deed] out of ignorance and then repents after that and reforms, then He is indeed All-Forgiving, All-Merciful.'"

Likewise, the return salutation is similar and returning the good wishes with same prayer. In short it isa generally said: Wa ʿalaykumu s-salām (وَعَلَيْكُمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ, 'and peace be upon you'). However, the complete form is "Wa ʿalaykumu s-salāmu wa-raḥmatu -llāhi wa-barakātuhū" (وَعَلَيْكُمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ وَرَحْمَةُ ٱللَّٰهِ وَبَرَكَاتُهُ, "And upon you be peace, as well as the mercy of God and his blessings").

In one of his Hadiths Prophet Muhammad ﷺ told his companions about the genesis of this salutation. This Hadith is mentioned Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 60 - Prophets /  كتاب   أحاديث الأنبياء / Chapter 21: The creation of Adam and his offspring / باب خَلْقِ آدَمَ صَلَوَاتُ اللَّهِ عَلَيْهِ وَذُرِّيَّتِهِ‏) as Hadith 3326, given herein under:

Narrated by Abu Huraira:

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Allah created Adam, making him 60 cubits tall. When He created him, He said to him, "Go and greet that group of angels, and listen to their reply, for it will be your greeting (salutation) and the greeting (salutations of your offspring." So, Adam said (to the angels), As-Salamu Alaikum (i.e. Peace be upon you). The angels said, "As-salamu Alaika wa Rahmatu-l-lahi" (i.e. Peace and Allah's Mercy be upon you). Thus the angels added to Adam's salutation the expression, 'Wa Rahmatu-l-lahi,' Any person who will enter Paradise will resemble Adam (in appearance and figure). People have been decreasing in stature since Adam's creation.

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنِي عَبْدُ اللَّهِ بْنُ مُحَمَّدٍ، حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ الرَّزَّاقِ، عَنْ مَعْمَرٍ، عَنْ هَمَّامٍ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ ـ رضى الله عنه ـ عَنِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ خَلَقَ اللَّهُ آدَمَ وَطُولُهُ سِتُّونَ ذِرَاعًا، ثُمَّ قَالَ اذْهَبْ فَسَلِّمْ عَلَى أُولَئِكَ مِنَ الْمَلاَئِكَةِ، فَاسْتَمِعْ مَا يُحَيُّونَكَ، تَحِيَّتُكَ وَتَحِيَّةُ ذُرِّيَّتِكَ‏.‏ فَقَالَ السَّلاَمُ عَلَيْكُمْ‏.‏ فَقَالُوا السَّلاَمُ عَلَيْكَ وَرَحْمَةُ اللَّهِ‏.‏ فَزَادُوهُ وَرَحْمَةُ اللَّهِ‏.‏ فَكُلُّ مَنْ يَدْخُلُ الْجَنَّةَ عَلَى صُورَةِ آدَمَ، فَلَمْ يَزَلِ الْخَلْقُ يَنْقُصُ حَتَّى الآنَ ‏"‏‏.‏

In line with the Islamic traditions, while we should not miss the least expression of As-salāmu ʿalaykum, it is much better to express not only peace but also praying for Allah's mercy and blessings on the reciepient by saying the complete phrase of  As-salāmu ʿalaykum wa-raḥmatu -llāhi wa-barakātuhū (ٱلسَّلَامُ عَلَيْكُمْ وَرَحْمَةُ ٱللَّٰهِ وَبَرَكَاتُهُ, which means:  'Peace be upon you, as well as the mercy of God and His blessings'. Likewise the recipient should also use the complete phrase to pray back for the one whoinitiated the greeting.

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.

You may refer to our exclusive page: Collection of Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to read posts written on general matters.

Please also refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about sunnah / Hadith 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

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How to respond to intriguing queries of a non-Muslims

One of the most difficult task of a believer is to answer the intriguing questions asked by the non Muslim. These days everyone is well equipped with one's faith and others religions specially Islam as non-Muslims not only feel threatened by the growing Islam but also have many queries they have about Islam as there is lot of misinformation being spread about Islam, Qur'an and Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Additionally some of the jargons like Jihad, Hijab or even questioning the reality of Allah are some of the hot questions that are much too often asked.

And if a believer is not equipped with detailed knowledge about some of the basic and even some intriguing questions, they are like to be mocked for not knowing our own faith. 

Instead of listing down the questions and our answers, please view the following short, yet very informative video which shows how a bold Muslimah answers some of the intriguing question posed by a pastor:

This is the minimum level of knowledge to start with. Thereon, we need to develop our knowledge base, read the disinformation about being spread, carry out research and consult eminent scholars to prepare ourselves for a fruitful discussion and encounter with the rigid and stubborn questioners. 

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 information on Islam, please refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

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. 

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.

Photo | 

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Prophetic Supplication for protection against Dangerous Diseases (Supplication Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Everyone wishes to be healthy and hearty. Yet, the menace of diseases, specially the generally incurable dangerous diseases is vast spreading. The threat of AIDS, cancer, MS and many other diseases for which a credible medicine or antidote has yet to be found. We see our people around us succumbing to these deadly and dangerous disease at the hands of helpless of science of medicine and even the best doctors in the field.

We also know that these diseases strike us as a test by Allah to see who remains steadfast despite the suffering from the dangerous ailment. Remember Prophet Ayūb "أيوب" (Job, may peace be upon him) fell ill to an extent that his whole body was covered with  painful boils throughout his entire body. Yet despite the extreme pain and discomfort and painful ordeal and at a very later stage of his life, some say he was seventy years of age, the revered prophet displayed an extreme sense of faith and patience and never stopped invoking the mercy of his Lord.

And [mention] Job, when he called to his Lord, "Indeed, adversity has touched me, and you are the Most Merciful of the merciful." — Quran, Surah 21 (The Prophets), Ayah 83

It is said that after many years of suffering, God ordered Job to "Strike with thy foot!".[6] At once, Job struck the ground with his foot and God caused a cool spring of water to gush forth from the Earth, from which Job could replenish himself. The Quran states that it was then that God removed his pain and suffering.

I am personal witness to a brother who lost his eyesight. But he never left his faith and trust in Allah and continue to supplicate for almost five years when miraculously his eyesight was restored by the will of Allah. 

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is said to have taught a supplication to his companions for refuge against deadly diseases. This supplication is mentioned in Sunan Abi Dawud (Book # 8  Prayer (Kitab Al-Salat): Detailed Injunctions about Witr / كتاب  الوتر / Chapter # 518 Regarding Seeking Refuge / باب  فِي الاِسْتِعَاذَةِ as Hadith number # 1554, quoted herein under:

Narrated  by Anas ibn Malik: The Prophet (ﷺ) used to say: "O Allah, I seek refuge in Thee from leprosy, madness, elephantiasis, and evil diseases."

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا مُوسَى بْنُ إِسْمَاعِيلَ، حَدَّثَنَا حَمَّادٌ، أَخْبَرَنَا قَتَادَةُ، عَنْ أَنَسٍ، أَنَّ النَّبِيَّ صلى الله عليه وسلم كَانَ يَقُولُ 

‏ "‏ اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْبَرَصِ وَالْجُنُونِ وَالْجُذَامِ وَمِنْ سَيِّئِ الأَسْقَامِ ‏"‏ ‏‏

Grade: Sahih (Al-Albani)

Remember, every person is faced with trials and tribulations at one point or another in their lives. It is patience that helps the believer cope. When calamity befalls a patient believer, it does not crush him. Instead, the believer endures, persists, and has hope in the mercy of Allah and the rewards that are awaiting him on the Day of Judgment.

We too therefore remain steadfast in all tests and tribulations of our lives and make it a habit of repeating the afore mentioned supplication to seek protection from the listed and even otherwise dangerous and incurable diseases that have emerged rather lately.

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.

You may refer to our reference page:  Supplications attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for more supplications attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ 

Please also refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about sunnah / Hadith 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 | References: | 1 | 2 |

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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Responding to objections / lies about Islam: Islam is a demonized religion

It is a general tendency that when you hate someone, without knowing him, based on ideas fed to you, specially when it comes to matter related to faith, you tend to become extremely emotional that mar or obscure your judgmental abilities. Since the proclamation of Islam, the other Divine religions, like the Jewism and Christianity, felt threatened and their priests and scholars embarked upon a hate campaign about Islam, which unfortunately continues till date.

We have already published a number of posts to respond to the lies, misinformation and objections about Islam which can be found in our exclusive reference page: The Rebuttal. Continuing with our endeavour to clear the fog of lies, today we take yet another lie about Islam. The lie is so damning that we could not write it verbatim in our caption for it is far below the diginity of any sane human, no matter what religion or faith he belongs to, to utter such a derogatory mindset. The lie is appended below and we will thereafter respond to it:

Islam is centered around a false god - He is really Satan in disguise 

Now this objection is totally baseless, derogatory that expresses the mind of the sick, who in their hatred about Islam can go to this utterly baseless. Although this is not the perception and mindset of mainstream Christians, but a perspective held by certain fringe groups or individuals. This perspective is rooted in a combination of theological, historical, and cultural misunderstandings. 

Here are the detailed reasons behind this phenomenon:

Theological Differences

Trinity vs. Tawhid: A central theological difference is the Christian belief in the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) versus the Islamic concept of Tawhid (absolute oneness of God). Some Christians who misunderstand or reject Tawhid might perceive the Islamic rejection of the Trinity as heretical or even demonic.

Christology: Christians believe in the divinity of Jesus Christ as the Son of God, whereas Islam regards Jesus (Isa) as a prophet, not divine. This fundamental difference leads some Christians to view Islamic teachings about Jesus as not just different, but as opposing their own, which can be demonized.

Historical and Cultural Misunderstandings

Medieval Polemics: During the Middle Ages, Christians and Muslims often viewed each other as existential threats. Christian polemicists sometimes depicted Muhammad and Islam in extremely negative terms, equating them with heresy and devilry. These polemics have left a lingering suspicion and misrepresentation.

Lack of Knowledge: Many Christians who equate Allah with Satan do so out of ignorance about Islam. They may not realize that "Allah" is simply the Arabic word for God, used by Arab Christians and Jews as well. This misunderstanding is exacerbated by limited exposure to authentic Islamic teachings.

Extremist Narratives

Extremist Views: Some fringe Christian groups promote the idea that Islam is a satanic deception. This view is often propagated by those who interpret end-time prophecies in a way that demonizes Islam, viewing it as part of a satanic plot against Christianity.

Cultural and Political Factors

Geopolitical Conflicts: The association of Islam with terrorism in the media, especially after events like 9/11, has led to a fear and demonization of Muslims and their beliefs. This climate of fear can foster extreme views where Islam is seen not just as different, but as malevolent.

Religious Exclusivism: Some Christians hold an exclusivist view of salvation, believing that their faith is the only true path to God. From this perspective, other religions, including Islam, are seen as false and potentially influenced by evil forces.

Misinterpretation of Islamic Teachings

Misunderstanding Jihad: The concept of jihad is often misunderstood by non-Muslims. While mainstream Islam teaches that jihad primarily refers to a spiritual struggle, extremists' misuse of the term has led to its association with violence, further fueling misconceptions.

Summary

The equation of Allah with Satan by some Christians stems from a mix of theological differences, historical polemics, cultural misunderstandings, ignorance, and extremist narratives. These factors combine to create a perception that is not based on an informed understanding of Islamic teachings but rather on fear, misrepresentation, and prejudice.

Mainstream Christianity, however, does not endorse this view. Many Christian leaders and scholars recognize that Muslims worship the same God that they do, albeit with different understandings and beliefs about His nature and revelations. Efforts towards interfaith dialogue continue to address and reduce these misunderstandings, promoting mutual respect and understanding between Christians and Muslims.

So let no one deceive about Islam by lies, misinformation and disinformation. Islam provides the easiest access to Allah without any intermediary to speak to Him, repent one's sins and seek forgiveness.

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 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 refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

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The Goodness and Virtue of Honesty and the Abhorrence of Lying (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

No religion or society favours spread of dishonesty and lying at the cost of goodness and honesty. Yet it is generally seen that there is always abundance of deceit, lying and dishonesty that prevails in a society and men of shady character thrive, while the honesty and goodness in men is severely snubbed and undermined. Likewise the spreaders of obscenity and porn stuff by the people to earn money by spoiling the character of otherwise good is widespread and is not even considered evil anymore. 

This happens for we are shortsighted and our vision and aims are only restricted to present times or a to a limited future while we live. Those who do not believe in the Resurrection and a day when the Divine Court will be established to reward and award, continue to thrive at the cost of their dishonesty and perfidious way of handling their day to day affairs. 

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in one of his Hadiths had warned of severe consequences for such people and gave good tidings to those who hold on to their goodness and honesty. This Hadith is quoted in Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim: Book 45: The Book of Virtue, Enjoining Good Manners, and Joining of the Ties of Kinship - كتاب البر والصلة والآداب   / Chapter # 29 The Abhorrence Of Lying, And The Goodness And Virtue Of Honesty / باب قُبْحِ الْكَذِبِ وَحُسْنِ الصِّدْقِ وَفَضْلِهِ ‏‏‏) as Hadith number # 2607a as under:

'Abdullah reported Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) as saying:

"Truth leads one to Paradise and virtue leads one to Paradise and the person tells the truth until he is recorded as truthful, and lie leads to obscenity and obscenity leads to Hell, and the person tells a lie until he is recorded as a liar."

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا زُهَيْرُ بْنُ حَرْبٍ، وَعُثْمَانُ بْنُ أَبِي شَيْبَةَ، وَإِسْحَاقُ بْنُ إِبْرَاهِيمَ، قَالَ إِسْحَاقُ أَخْبَرَنَا وَقَالَ الآخَرَانِ، حَدَّثَنَا جَرِيرٌ، عَنْ مَنْصُورٍ، عَنْ أَبِي وَائِلٍ، عَنْ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ، قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ "‏ إِنَّ الصِّدْقَ يَهْدِي إِلَى الْبِرِّ وَإِنَّ الْبِرَّ يَهْدِي إِلَى الْجَنَّةِ وَإِنَّ الرَّجُلَ لَيَصْدُقُ حَتَّى يُكْتَبَ صِدِّيقًا وَإِنَّ الْكَذِبَ يَهْدِي إِلَى الْفُجُورِ وَإِنَّ الْفُجُورَ يَهْدِي إِلَى النَّارِ وَإِنَّ الرَّجُلَ لَيَكْذِبُ حَتَّى يُكْتَبَ كَذَّابًا ‏"‏ ‏.‏

Let us, my brothers and sisters in Islam, be of the few and protect our virtues rather than following the pied pipers of evil that will lead us to sever questioning and even punishment far beyond our comprehension.

Remember: haram brings misery,  Backbiting, watching filth, drugs, gambling, etc. These create stress, anxiety,  evil eye, Allah's punishment, we lose on so much blessings, our hearts harden etc. Avoiding haram makes life so much better.

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.

You may refer to our exclusive page: Collection of Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to read posts written on general matters.

Please also refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about sunnah / Hadith 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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