What is the significance of Muharram - the first month of the Islamic Lunar Calendar

The sacred month of Muharram (Arabic: ٱلْمُحَرَّم) holds significant importance in Islam, as highlighted in both the Quran and Hadith. It begins after the Dhul Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic Lunar Calendar and it precedes the month of Safar. The month of Muharram is steeped in both religious and historical significance for Muslims. Not only is it a month decreed by Allah (SWT) as sacred, it is the first month of the Islamic calendar, marking the hijrah (emigration) of the Muslims to Medina and the establishment of the first Islamic state in 622CE.

Although, much can be written on the importance of this sacred month, this post explains its importance in very concise form based on its mention in Qur'an and Hadith, besides mentioning the tragic incident of Karbala, which happened despite special Divine commandments to refrain from fighting in this sacred month.

Muharram in the Quran

"Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve [lunar] months in the register of Allah [from] the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four are sacred. That is the correct religion, so do not wrong yourselves during them. And fight against the disbelievers collectively as they fight against you collectively. And know that Allah is with the righteous [who fear Him]." (Surah At-Tawbah (9:36)}

In this verse, Allah mentions the four sacred months, which include Muharram, during which fighting and acts of aggression are forbidden. These months are meant to be a time of peace, reflection, and increased devotion.

Muharram in the Hadith

• Sanctity of Muharram:
• Narrated by Abu Bakr: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "The year is twelve months of which four are sacred: the three consecutive months of Dhu al-Qa'dah, Dhu al-Hijjah, and Muharram, and Rajab Mudar (which stands between Jumada and Sha'ban)." (Sahih Muslim 1679a)
• Fasting in Muharram:
• Narrated by Abu Huraira: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "The best fast after Ramadan is in the month of Allah, Muharram." (Sahih Muslim 1163)
• Ashura (10th of Muharram):
• Narrated by Ibn 'Abbas: "The Prophet (ﷺ) came to Medina and saw the Jews fasting on the day of Ashura. He said, 'What is this?' They said, 'This is a righteous day. It is the day when Allah saved the Children of Israel from their enemies, so Moses fasted on this day.' He said, 'We have more right to Moses than you.' So he fasted on that day and commanded [the Muslims] to fast on that day." (Sahih Bukhari 2004)
• Narrated by Ibn 'Abbas: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "If I remain alive till the next year, I shall also fast on the ninth [of Muharram]." (Sahih Muslim 1134)

Significance of Ashura

The day of Ashura, the 10th of Muharram, is particularly significant. It commemorates the day when Allah saved the Israelites from Pharaoh's tyranny. For Muslims, it also holds the tragic memory of the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), at the Battle of Karbala. This event is especially observed by Shia Muslims through mourning and remembrance.

Sacredness of Muharram

• Peace and Non-Aggression: The sacredness of Muharram entails a prohibition on warfare and aggression, promoting peace and reflection. Yet we see how this commandment of Allah was grossly violated when the tragic incident of Karbala took place in which Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his companions and family were martyred.
• Acts of Worship: Muslims are encouraged to increase their acts of worship during Muharram, especially fasting. The fast of Ashura is highly recommended, and it is considered meritorious to also fast on the 9th and/or 11th of Muharram to differentiate from the Jewish practice.
• Reflection and Remembrance: Muharram is a time for Muslims to reflect on historical events, including the deliverance of Moses and the Israelites and the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali. It is a time for learning lessons of faith, perseverance, and justice.

The sacred month of Muharram holds profound spiritual significance in Islam, marked by its prohibition on fighting, encouragement of fasting, and reflection on key historical events. The Quran and Hadith both underscore the importance of observing this month with increased devotion, peace, and righteousness, making it a special time for Muslims to renew their faith and commitment to Islamic principles.

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

Photo | Resource Reference: Wikipedia - read more about details of Muharram and Karbala Incident.

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

Read More

Why Islam equates Cleanliness to Half of the Faith (Understanding Islam)

The concept of "cleanliness is half of faith" underscores the significant emphasis Islam places on both physical and spiritual cleanliness. It encourages Muslims to live a life of purity in all aspects, reflecting their faith through their actions and habits. This principle is deeply rooted in the Quran and Hadith, making cleanliness a fundamental part of a Muslim's daily life and spiritual practice.

The phrase "cleanliness is half of faith" (الطُّهُورُ شَطْرُ الإِيمَانِ) is derived from a hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), which emphasizes the importance of cleanliness in Islam. This concept is rooted in both the Quran and the Hadith, reflecting the comprehensive nature of cleanliness in a Muslim's spiritual, physical, and social life.

Abu Malik at-Ash'ari reported: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: Cleanliness is half of faith and al-Hamdu Lillah (all praise and gratitude is for Allah alone) fills the scale, and Subhan Allah (Glory be to Allah) and al-Hamdu Lillah fill up what is between the heavens and the earth, and prayer is a light, and charity is proof (of one's faith) and endurance is a brightness and the Holy Qur'an is a proof on your behalf or against you. All men go out early in the morning and sell themselves, thereby setting themselves free or destroying themselves. (Sahih Muslim, Book 2, Hadith 432)

حَدَّثَنَا إِسْحَاقُ بْنُ مَنْصُورٍ، حَدَّثَنَا حَبَّانُ بْنُ هِلاَلٍ، حَدَّثَنَا أَبَانٌ، حَدَّثَنَا يَحْيَى، أَنَّ زَيْدًا، حَدَّثَهُ أَنَّ أَبَا سَلاَّمٍ حَدَّثَهُ عَنْ أَبِي مَالِكٍ الأَشْعَرِيِّ، قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ "‏ الطُّهُورُ شَطْرُ الإِيمَانِ وَالْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ تَمْلأُ الْمِيزَانَ ‏.‏ وَسُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ وَالْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ تَمْلآنِ - أَوْ تَمْلأُ - مَا بَيْنَ السَّمَوَاتِ وَالأَرْضِ وَالصَّلاَةُ نُورٌ وَالصَّدَقَةُ بُرْهَانٌ وَالصَّبْرُ ضِيَاءٌ وَالْقُرْآنُ حُجَّةٌ لَكَ أَوْ عَلَيْكَ كُلُّ النَّاسِ يَغْدُو فَبَائِعٌ نَفْسَهُ فَمُعْتِقُهَا أَوْ مُوبِقُهَا ‏"‏ ‏. 

Let us examine this Hadith in detail in light of Quran and Hadith:

Spiritual Cleanliness: Purity of the Heart and Soul: Cleanliness in Islam is not limited to physical cleanliness but also includes spiritual purity. Muslims are encouraged to purify their hearts from malice, envy, and hatred.

وَيَسْـَٔلُونَكَ عَنِ ٱلْمَحِيضِ ۖ قُلْ هُوَ أَذًۭى فَٱعْتَزِلُوا۟ ٱلنِّسَآءَ فِى ٱلْمَحِيضِ ۖ وَلَا تَقْرَبُوهُنَّ حَتَّىٰ يَطْهُرْنَ ۖ فَإِذَا تَطَهَّرْنَ فَأْتُوهُنَّ مِنْ حَيْثُ أَمَرَكُمُ ٱللَّهُ ۚ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ يُحِبُّ ٱلتَّوَّٰبِينَ وَيُحِبُّ ٱلْمُتَطَهِّرِينَ 

They ask you ˹O Prophet˺ about menstruation. Say, “Beware of its harm! So keep away, and do not have intercourse with your wives during their monthly cycles until they are purified.1 When they purify themselves, then you may approach them in the manner specified by Allah. Surely Allah loves those who always turn to Him in repentance and those who purify themselves.” (Surah 2. Al-Baqarah 2:222)

Physical Cleanliness: 

• Personal Hygiene: 
• The teachings of Islam place great emphasis on personal hygiene, including regular washing, grooming, and cleanliness of clothing and surroundings. ("Indeed, Allah loves those who are constantly repentant and loves those who purify themselves." (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:222) 
• Hadith: "Five practices are characteristics of the Fitra (natural disposition): circumcision, shaving the pubic hair, cutting the mustache short, clipping the nails, and plucking the armpit hairs." (Sahih Bukhari 5889)
• Ritual Purity (Taharah): 
• Ablution (Wudu): Muslims perform wudu before prayers to maintain a state of ritual purity.
• Quranic Verse: "O you who have believed, when you rise to [perform] prayer, wash your faces and your forearms to the elbows and wipe over your heads and wash your feet to the ankles." (Surah Al-Ma'idah 5:6)
• Hadith: "No prayer is accepted without purification." (Sahih Muslim 224)

Environmental Cleanliness:

• Community and Environmental Cleanliness: Islam encourages the maintenance of cleanliness in public spaces and the environment.
• Quranic Verse: "Indeed, Allah does not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves." (Surah Ar-Ra'd 13:11)
• Hadith: "Removing harmful things from the road is an act of charity (sadaqah)." (Sahih Bukhari 2989)

Comprehensive Understanding

• Holistic Approach: Cleanliness in Islam covers a holistic approach that includes cleanliness of the body, purity of the heart and soul, ritual purity for worship, and environmental cleanliness.
• Integral Part of Faith: Considering cleanliness as "half of faith" signifies its integral role in a Muslim’s life, affecting daily rituals, personal habits, and social responsibilities.
• Path to Piety: Maintaining cleanliness is a means to attain piety (taqwa) and righteousness, aligning with the overall objective of Islamic teachings to lead a pure and morally upright life.

In view of the above references form Qur'an and Hadith, we understand that cleanliness is not restricted to bodily cleaning, rather it covers a very wide spectrum of our lives. From inner purity to bodily cleaning to community and environmental hygiene, Islam emphasises that unless one has cleansed himself as individual and ensured that he helps in maintaining a clean and hygienic environment, his faith in Allah is not complete. 

Likewise the spiritual purity is equally important in addition to physical hygiene and cleanliness. Maintaining cleanliness is a means to attain piety (taqwa) and righteousness, aligning with the overall objective of Islamic teachings to lead a pure and morally upright life. The spiritual purity leads to purity of the heart and soul and ritual purity for worship.

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.

Photo | 

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

Read More

How to seek refuge from all forms of Evil (Supplications of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Evil, in a broad sense, refers to actions, thoughts, or events that cause harm, suffering, or moral corruption. In Islamic theology, evil can stem from both external and internal sources and is often associated with the influences of Satan (Shaytan) and one's own nafs (inner desires). The last two Surahs of Qur'an (Surah 113. Falaq, and Surah 114. An Nas) are specially revealed to caution the believers about the enticement of the evil forces that befall on them outwardly and inwardly. 

Likewise, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ always advised his companions to be cautious of the evil and make a special supplication to ward of the evil and its spell. 

One of such supplications 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 # 1551, quoted herein under:

Narrated Shakl ibn Humayd: I said: Messenger of Allah, teach me a supplication. And he said:

"O Allah, I seek refuge in Thee from the evil of what I hear, from the evil of what I see, from the evil of what I speak, from the evil of what I think, and from the evil of my semen" (i.e. sexual passion).

Grade: Sahih (Al-Albani)

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا أَحْمَدُ بْنُ مُحَمَّدِ بْنِ حَنْبَلٍ، حَدَّثَنَا مُحَمَّدُ بْنُ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ بْنِ الزُّبَيْرِ، ح وَحَدَّثَنَا أَحْمَدُ، حَدَّثَنَا وَكِيعٌ، - الْمَعْنَى - عَنْ سَعْدِ بْنِ أَوْسٍ، عَنْ بِلاَلٍ الْعَبْسِيِّ، عَنْ شُتَيْرِ بْنِ شَكَلٍ، عَنْ أَبِيهِ، فِي حَدِيثِ أَبِي أَحْمَدَ شَكَلِ بْنِ حُمَيْدٍ - قَالَ - قُلْتُ يَا رَسُولَ اللَّهِ عَلِّمْنِي دُعَاءً قَالَ ‏ "‏ قُلِ اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّ سَمْعِي وَمِنْ شَرِّ بَصَرِي وَمِنْ شَرِّ لِسَانِي وَمِنْ شَرِّ قَلْبِي وَمِنْ شَرِّ مَنِيِّي ‏"‏ ‏.‏

There are similar Hadiths which have been quoted in other collection of hadiths about the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) seeking refuge from various forms of evil, including his own human weaknesses and impurities. A few are mentioned hereinunder: 

Narrated Aisha: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to say in his prayer: "O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the evil of what I have done and from the evil of what I have not done."

Another version has: "O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the evil of my soul and from the evil of my actions."

Implications of the Hadith

Humility and Awareness: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) exemplifies humility by acknowledging his human limitations and seeking Allah's protection from potential wrongs.

Seeking Allah's Refuge: The hadith emphasizes the importance of seeking Allah's refuge from all forms of evil, both apparent and hidden, including those that stem from one's own nature.

Comprehensive Supplication: The supplication covers various aspects of life, indicating a holistic approach to seeking divine protection and guidance in all matters.

Recognition of Human Weaknesses: By mentioning his own human weaknesses, the Prophet (ﷺ) sets an example for believers to recognize their flaws and turn to Allah for support and purification.

Spiritual Vigilance: The hadith encourages Muslims to be vigilant about their actions and constantly seek spiritual purification, acknowledging that only Allah can provide true guidance and protection.

While the supplication addresses protection from all forms of evil, the special mention of "evil of my semen" sums up all forms of evil as the focus of evil / Satan is always to induce thinking of lewdness and sexual desires in a man, as well as woman, specially the developing youth who find it difficult to control their sexual desires and often fail in the test. A vast majority of youth in the Western world  succumb to their sexual desires even before reaching poetry. It is alarming to note that under the banner of liberalism, many a Muslim youth too are giving in to the Satanic enticement and indulging in acts of lewdness and Haram sex. It is for this reason that Prophet Muhammad ﷺ made a special mention of it to warn the believers to strictly control their emotions that lead to acts lewdness.

Thus the above quoted supplication specially mentions "the evil of my semen" highlighting the Prophet Muhammad’s (ﷺ) humility and his recognition of human vulnerabilities. It underscores the importance of seeking Allah’s refuge from all forms of evil, including those that arise from within oneself. This supplication serves as a reminder for believers to be conscious of their actions and continuously seek divine assistance in overcoming their weaknesses and striving for spiritual purity.

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

For more prophetic supplications, please refer to our reference page: Supplications attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

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

Photo | Source of Hadith

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

Read More

How and why to thank Allah when putting on a New Garment (Sunnah Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

We are but very lowly servants, our Creator, our Lord, Allah the Almighty. Nothing that we possess is because of our efforts or endeavours. Rather every single possession of ours is a blessing from Allah, but many of us do not care for thanking Allah for showering His immense bounties on us.

If we look around, we find many a people dressed in rag tags with no place to live and even a morsel of food to eat. And if we have a nice a and decent dress to wear, three times food and a home to shelter us with a wallet enough to  sustain us, we should consider ourselves one of the blessed few and must thank Allah for all we have been blessed with.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ through his many hadiths and sunnah, taught us how to be thankful to Allah for everything that we have and we must follow his sunnah to add "Barakah" to our life. One such sunnag of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is about wearing a new dress.

Whenever the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ put on new garments, he expressed gratitude to Allah with a specific supplication (dua). This act of thanking Allah for new clothing is part of the Sunnah, which encourages Muslims to recognize and appreciate the blessings bestowed upon them. The following hadith illustrates the Prophet's practice:

Narrated by AbuSa'id al-Khudri:

When the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) put on a new garment he mentioned it by name, turban or shirt, and would then say: O Allah, praise be to Thee! as Thou hast clothed me with it, I ask Thee for its good and the good of that for which it was made, and I seek refuge in Thee from its evil and the evil of that for which it was made.

Abu Nadrah said: When any of the Companions of the Prophet (ﷺ) put on a new garment, he was told: May you wear it out and may Allah give you another in its place.

Grade: Sahih (Al-Albani)

This Hadith is mentioned in Sunan Abi Dawud (Book # 34  Clothing (Kitab Al-Libas) / كتاب  اللباس / Chapter # 1502 What Is To Be Said When Putting On A New Garment / باب مَا يَقُولُ إِذَا لَبِسَ ثَوْبًا جَدِيدًا

as Hadith number # 4020.

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا عَمْرُو بْنُ عَوْنٍ، أَخْبَرَنَا ابْنُ الْمُبَارَكِ، عَنِ الْجُرَيْرِيِّ، عَنْ أَبِي نَضْرَةَ، عَنْ أَبِي سَعِيدٍ الْخُدْرِيِّ، قَالَ كَانَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم إِذَا اسْتَجَدَّ ثَوْبًا سَمَّاهُ بِاسْمِهِ إِمَّا قَمِيصًا أَوْ عِمَامَةً ثُمَّ يَقُولُ ‏ "‏ اللَّهُمَّ لَكَ الْحَمْدُ أَنْتَ كَسَوْتَنِيهِ أَسْأَلُكَ مِنْ خَيْرِهِ وَخَيْرِ مَا صُنِعَ لَهُ وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّهِ وَشَرِّ مَا صُنِعَ لَهُ ‏"‏ ‏.‏ قَالَ أَبُو نَضْرَةَ فَكَانَ أَصْحَابُ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم إِذَا لَبِسَ أَحَدُهُمْ ثَوْبًا جَدِيدًا قِيلَ لَهُ تُبْلِي وَيُخْلِفُ اللَّهُ تَعَالَى ‏.‏

Now let us examine the thankfulness expressed in the above said Suuah and what is the philosophy behind thanking Allah when warning a new adornment:

• Expression of Gratitude: The Prophet (ﷺ) begins by praising Allah, acknowledging that it is through Allah’s grace that he has been provided with the garment. This shows humility and gratitude for even the seemingly small blessings.
• Naming the Garment: The Prophet (ﷺ) specifically mentions the type of garment, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and being mindful of the specific blessings one receives.
• Seeking Goodness and Protection: 
• He asks Allah for the goodness associated with the garment and what it was made for, which can include comfort, protection, and dignity.
• He also seeks protection from any harm or evil that might come from it, reflecting a comprehensive approach to seeking Allah’s blessings and refuge.

The Prophet Muhammad's (ﷺ) practice of thanking Allah when putting on new garments teaches Muslims to be grateful for all blessings, big or small. It also underscores the importance of seeking goodness and protection in all aspects of life. This supplication serves as a reminder to recognize Allah's bounties and to approach life's daily activities with mindfulness and gratitude.

Let us, our brothers and sisters in Islam, follow the suit and follow sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ whenever wearing a new garment or any thing new that adds to our possession, and thank Allah for everything that He has bestowed upon us. We must at the same time pray to Allah to provide better provisions, adornment and means of sustenance to those so far deprived of these blessings of His. 

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to read more Sunnah attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

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

Photo | Source of Hadith

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

Read More

What are Implications of giving a false statement and false witness as per Qur’an and Hadith

Presenting true and accurate witness is one of the basic pillars of any judicial system of the world. On the contrary, one false testimony can lead to serious ramification and convict an innocent person to languish behind bars for life, or in many cases to the gallows.

Islam, being a complete code of life,  considers false witness as a grave sin with serious moral, social, and legal implications. The Quran and Hadith strongly condemn false testimony due to its potential to cause injustice, harm, and discord within society. However, it is painful to see many a believer rendering false testimonies and appearing as false witnesses to please their masters or in lust for a few pennies more. The false witnesses forget that according to the law, where an innocent person has been executed on the basis of false evidence, the perjurer himself can be sentenced to death.

In many a under developed countries, bearing false testimony is treated — even by many judges — as a quotidian detail in a corrupt, ruthless system. The lower courts are rife with touts offering to bear false witness for a price; in effect, the life of an accused can be in the hands of an individual who makes a living out of misleading the court.

In view of the seriousness of false testimonies and perjury, let us have an in-depth look at the implications of bearing false witness in Islam:

It is said in the Qur'an:

وَالَّذِيۡنَ لَا يَشۡهَدُوۡنَ الزُّوۡرَۙ وَ اِذَا مَرُّوۡا بِاللَّغۡوِ مَرُّوۡا كِرَامًا‏ 

(The true servants of the Merciful One) are those who do not bear witness to any falsehood and who, when they pass by frivolity, pass by it with dignity; Surah Al-Furqan (25:72)

The Arabic word laghv لَّغۡوِ implies all that is vain, useless and meaningless and it also covers falsehood. The true servants pass by in a dignified manner if they ever come across what is vain, as if it were a heap of filth. They do not stay there to enjoy the filth of moral impurity, obscenity or foul language, nor do they intentionally go anywhere to hear or see or take part in any sort of filth.

(The true servants of the Merciful One) are those who do not bear witness to any falsehood This also has two meanings: (1) They do not give evidence (in the court of law etc.) in regard to a false thing in order to prove it right, when in fact it is a falsehood, or at best a doubtful thing. (2) They have no intention to witness anything which is false, evil or wicked as spectators. In this sense, every sin and every indecency, every sham and counterfeit act is a falsehood. A true servant of Allah recognizes it as false and shuns it even if it is presented in the seemingly beautiful forms of art.

In the 30th verse of Surah 22. Al-Hajj it is reiterated that "So avoid the uncleanliness of idols and avoid false statement."

The verse emphasizes avoiding false statements, which can include lies, false testimony, and deceitful speech. Truthfulness is a core value in Islam, and false statements are seen as morally and spiritually corrupting. This verse is part of a broader passage that discusses the sanctity of religious duties and the importance of adhering to divine commandments. The prohibition against idol worship and false statements reinforces the need for purity in both belief and conduct.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has also been quoted as cautioning believers on False Witness

Narrated Abu Bakra: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Shall I not inform you of the biggest of the major sins?" They said, "Yes, O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)." He said, "To join partners in worship with Allah (Shirk), to be undutiful to one's parents." The Prophet (ﷺ) then sat up after he had been reclining (on a pillow) and said, "And I warn you against giving a false statement and a false witness; I warn you against giving a false statement and a false witness." The Prophet (ﷺ) kept on saying that warning till we thought he would not stop. (Reference: Sahih Bukhari, Vol. 8, Book 73, Hadith 7)

The same Hadith is mentioned in Sahi Muslim where in it is narrated by Anas bin Malik: The Prophet (ﷺ) mentioned the major sins or was asked about the major sins. He said, "Associating others with Allah, killing a soul, being undutiful to parents." He then said, "Shall I not inform you of the most grievous of the major sins?" He said, "Giving a false statement or a false witness." (Reference: Sahih Muslim, Book 1, Hadith 163)

Implications of False Witness

• Moral Implications:
• Loss of Integrity: Bearing false witness undermines a person's integrity and trustworthiness. It reflects a serious moral failing and a lack of adherence to ethical principles.
• Spiritual Consequences: False testimony is considered a major sin that can lead to severe spiritual consequences. False testimony distances a person from the mercy of Allah and can lead to punishment in the Hereafter.
• Social Implications:
• Injustice: False witness can lead to wrongful convictions, loss of rights, and various forms of injustice. It disrupts the social order and can cause significant harm to individuals and communities.
• Discord and Distrust: It fosters an environment of mistrust and discord within society. When false testimony is prevalent, it erodes the foundation of justice and fairness that is essential for a harmonious community.
• Legal Implications:
• General Implications: Individuals who commit perjury are complicit in the miscarriage of justice; they corrupt the legal process whose very purpose is to uncover the truth. In a well-functioning justice system, bearing false witness attracts serious legal consequences which act as a deterrent.
• Severe Penalties: Islamic legal systems (Sharia) impose strict penalties for bearing false witness to deter this serious offense. Penalties may include corporal punishment, fines, or other forms of retribution, depending on the severity of the false testimony and its consequences.
• Nullification of Testimony: A person known to give false testimony can be disqualified from providing witness statements in the future, which can have long-term legal ramifications.

In view of the above explanation, bearing false witness is a serious offense in Islam with far-reaching moral, social, and legal consequences. The Quran and Hadith emphasize the importance of truthfulness and integrity, warning against the severe repercussions of false testimony. By upholding the principles of honesty and justice, Muslims contribute to a fair and harmonious society, fulfilling their religious and ethical obligations.

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

| Photo | 

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

Read More

Fundamental Ethical and Moral Guidelines for Muslims (Divine Commandment from Qur'an)

Qur'an, the last of the four Divine Scripturas (earlier three being the Psalms Torah and the Gospel). It is a book of Divine Guidance for those who sincerely seek guidance hidden in the many a verse of Qur'an. Right in the beginning of the Surah 2. Al Baqarah (The Cow), Allah tells the knowledge seekers that Qur'an is the Book of Guidance for those who are God-conscious:

ذٰ لِكَ الۡڪِتٰبُ لَا رَيۡبَ ۛۚ ۖ فِيۡهِ ۛۚ هُدًى لِّلۡمُتَّقِيۡنَۙ‏ 

(2:2) This is the Book of Allah, there is no doubt in it; it is a guidance for the pious.

There on, there are number  of verses that give out tip and modus operandi to seek guidance. We have been sharing many such verses in our previous posts. Today we share the 151st verse of Surah Al-An'am, Chapter/Surah 6 of Qur'an in which Allah provides clear commandments to the believers specially aimed at ethical and moral guidelines:

قُلۡ تَعَالَوۡا اَتۡلُ مَا حَرَّمَ رَبُّكُمۡ عَلَيۡكُمۡ​ اَلَّا تُشۡرِكُوۡا بِهٖ شَيۡـئًـا وَّبِالۡوَالِدَيۡنِ اِحۡسَانًا​ ۚ وَلَا تَقۡتُلُوۡۤا اَوۡلَادَكُمۡ مِّنۡ اِمۡلَاقٍ​ؕ نَحۡنُ نَرۡزُقُكُمۡ وَاِيَّاهُمۡ​ ۚ وَلَا تَقۡرَبُوا الۡفَوَاحِشَ مَا ظَهَرَ مِنۡهَا وَمَا بَطَنَ​ ۚ وَلَا تَقۡتُلُوا النَّفۡسَ الَّتِىۡ حَرَّمَ اللّٰهُ اِلَّا بِالۡحَـقِّ​ ؕ ذٰ لِكُمۡ وَصّٰٮكُمۡ بِهٖ لَعَلَّكُمۡ تَعۡقِلُوۡنَ‏ 

Say to them (O Muhammad!): 'Come, let me recite what your Lord has laid down to you: (i) that you associate nothing with Him; (ii) and do good to your parents; (iii) and do not slay your children out of fear of poverty. We provide you and will likewise provide them with sustenance; (iv) and do not even draw to things shameful - be they open or secret; (v) and do not slay the soul sanctified by Allah except in just cause; this He has enjoined upon you so that you may understand;

Note: The detailed explanation / tafsir of this verse can be read from our post: Surah Al An'aam (The Cattle): 6th Chapter of Qur'an (Part III) [Link]

Herein under we only share the fundamental ethical and moral guidelines given in the verse: 

Prohibition of Shirk: The first and foremost command is not to associate anything with Allah, emphasizing the importance of monotheism. (Read our exclusive post on: What is the Reality of Shirk - the sin of idolatry or polytheism)

Good Treatment of Parents: The verse instructs believers to be kind and respectful to their parents. (Read our exclusive post on: Why Islam Stresses on Respect of Parents)

Prohibition of Killing Children: It forbids killing children due to fear of poverty, reassuring that Allah will provide sustenance for both parents and children. (Read our exclusive post on: When the girl-child buried alive shall be asked for what offence was she killed)

Avoidance of Immoralities: It commands believers to stay away from immoral acts, both those that are apparent and those that are hidden. (Read our exclusive post on: How to arrest the spread of Immorality (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ))

Prohibition of Unlawful Killing: The verse prohibits the killing of any soul that Allah has forbidden to be killed, except in the course of justice. The Quran has described killing one innocent person as equivalent to killing all humankind, and saving one person's life as equivalent to saving all humankind. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, in a Hadith of Bukhari, has included unlawful killing among the “seven great destructive sins”

These commandments serve as fundamental ethical and moral guidelines for Muslims, aiming to promote a just and compassionate society. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Please refer to our reference page: Divine Commandments in Qur'an  for more guidelines

You may also refer to our Selected verses from Sūrahs of Qur'an to highlight important topics with detailed explanation and Reference Page on Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'an. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

Read More

Three acts with which the heart of a Muslim shall not be deceived (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) mentioned three acts that, if practiced sincerely, will not deceive the heart of a true believer. These acts are related to maintaining sincere relationships, providing sound advice, and upholding the community's trust. 

These three acts attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ are mentioned in Hadith mentioned Jami` at-Tirmidhi  (41 -  Chapters on Knowledge / كتاب العلم عن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم / Chapter # 7 What Has Been Related About The Encouragement To Convey What Is Heard / باب مَا جَاءَ فِي الْحَثِّ عَلَى تَبْلِيغِ السَّمَاعِ  ) as Hadith number # 2658, appended herein under:

Narrated by 'Abdul-Malik bin 'Umair from 'Abdur-Rahman bin 'Abdullah bin Mas'ud that he narrated from his father, from the Prophet (ﷺ) who said:

 "May Allah beautify a man who hears a saying of mine, so he understands it, remembers it, and conveys it. Perhaps he carries the Fiqh to one who has more understanding than him. There are three with which the heart of a Muslim shall not be deceived. Sincerity in deeds for Allah, giving Nasihah to the A'immah of Muslims, and sticking to the Jama'ah. For indeed the call is protected from behind them."

Grade: Sahih (Darussalam)

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا ابْنُ أَبِي عُمَرَ، حَدَّثَنَا سُفْيَانُ، عَنْ عَبْدِ الْمَلِكِ بْنِ عُمَيْرٍ، عَنْ عَبْدِ الرَّحْمَنِ بْنِ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ بْنِ مَسْعُودٍ، يُحَدِّثُ عَنْ أَبِيهِ، عَنِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ نَضَّرَ اللَّهُ امْرَأً سَمِعَ مَقَالَتِي فَوَعَاهَا وَحَفِظَهَا وَبَلَّغَهَا فَرُبَّ حَامِلِ فِقْهٍ إِلَى مَنْ هُوَ أَفْقَهُ مِنْهُ ‏.‏ ثَلاَثٌ لاَ يُغَلُّ عَلَيْهِنَّ قَلْبُ مُسْلِمٍ إِخْلاَصُ الْعَمَلِ لِلَّهِ وَمُنَاصَحَةُ أَئِمَّةِ الْمُسْلِمِينَ وَلُزُومِ جَمَاعَتِهِمْ فَإِنَّ الدَّعْوَةَ تُحِيطُ مِنْ وَرَائِهِمْ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

Although, this hadith is self explanatory, let us examine each of these three acts in little more detail:

Sincerity in Actions Done for Allah's Sake: This refers to performing all acts of worship and good deeds purely for the sake of Allah, without any intention of gaining worldly benefits or recognition from others. Sincerity (ikhlas) ensures that a believer's heart remains free from hypocrisy and deceit.

Giving Sincere Advice to the Leaders of the Muslims: Offering sincere and constructive advice to the leaders and rulers within the Muslim community is crucial for maintaining justice and righteousness. This act fosters trust, accountability, and the well-being of the community.

Sticking to the Community of the Muslims (their Jama'ah): Being part of the Muslim community and maintaining unity is essential for preserving the faith and strength of the community. It involves supporting each other, participating in communal prayers, and upholding collective obligations.

The hadith thus emphasizes the importance of sincerity, sincere advice, and community cohesion. These acts are foundational to the integrity and strength of a believer's heart and the Muslim community. By practicing these principles, Muslims can foster trust, unity, and faithfulness, ensuring that their hearts remain free from deceit and malice.

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ  for more Hadiths on the General Subjects.

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

Photo | Source of Hadith

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

Read More