FIQH

INDEX

THE FIVE MAJOR IMPURITIES

TAHAARAH

GHUSAL Method of making GhusalThe Fards (Faraa'id) of GhusalThe Sunnahs of GhusalWhen is it Sunnah to make Ghusal?When is it Mustahab to make Ghusal?

WUDU Method of making WuduThe Fards (Faraa'id) of WuduThe Sunnahs of WuduWhen does Wudu become Makrooh?The Mustahabs of WuduActions which breaks Wudu and TayyammumWhen is it Mustahab to make Wudu?Masah over the Bandage or PlasterWarning

TAYYAMMUM Conditions for TayyammumHow to make TayyammumThe Fard (Faraa'id) of TayyammumThe Sunnahs of TayyammumObjects on which Tayyammum can be PerformedObjects on which Tayyammum cannot be Performed

Actions which break Tayyammum

AZAANMethod of Reciting the AzaanThe Words of the Azaan

IQAAMAH

SALAAH - BASICSThe Benefits of SalaahForbidden Times of SalaahThe Conditions of SalaahThe Faraa'id (Fard) of SalaahThe Waajibaat (Wajib) of Salaah The Sunnah of SalaahThe Sunnan of Takbeer-e-TahreemaThe Sunnan of QiyaamThe Sunnan of QiraahThe Sunnan of RukuThe Sunnan of SajdahThe Sunnan of Qa'dahThe Sunnan of SalaamThe Mustahabaat (Mustahabs) of SalaahThe Makroohaats (Makroohs) of SalaahActions which Break the Salaah

SALAAH (A Few short articles)

ISLAMIC TERMS Adaa-e-SalaahQadaJamaah SalaahImaamMuqtadiMudrikMasbookLaahiqMunfarid

KINDS OF RELIGIOUS ACTIONS

FardFard-e-KifaayahWaajibSunnahSunnat-e-Mu'akkidahSunnat-e-Ghair Mu'akkidahNafil or MustahabHaraamMakroohMakrooh-e-TahreemiMakrooh-e-Tanzeehi

WITR SALAAHWhat is Witr Salaah?How to Perform the Witr Salaah 

SAJDAH SAHW When does Sajdah Sahw become WaajibOther Rules relating to Sajdaw SahwHow to make Sajdah Sahw

JUMMAH SALAAHConditions for Jummah SalaahSunnah Acts on the Day of JummahThe Jummah Salaah 

TARAWEEH SALAAH

SALAATUL MAREED

SALAATUS SAFAR (QASR)

NAWAAFIL (NAFIL) SALAAH Salaatut TahajjudSalaatul IshraaqSalaatul ChaastSalaatul AwwabeenSalaatul TasbeehSalaatul HaajaatSalaatul IstikhaarahSalaatul IstisqaSalaatul Kusoof and Salaatul KhusoofTahiyatul Masjid, Salaah

Tahiyatul Wudu Salaah 

SAJDAH TILAAWAH  

QADA SALAAH  

MASBOOQ

THE DAYS OF EIDEid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-AdhaThe Sunnah Actions on the Day of EidThe Time of Eid SalaahMethod of Performing the Eid SalaahThe Eid KhutbahThe Difference between Eid and Jummah Salaah

SAUM - BASICSThe Benefits of SaumThe Position of SaumTypes of FastPersons excused from FastingSunnah acts during Fasting and in the Month of RamadaanMakrooh acts during FastingQaza SaumKaffarahFidya 

SAUM (A Few short articles)

I'TIKAAF  

LAYLATUL QADR - THE NIGHT OF POWER  

SADAQAH - E - FITR

ZAKAAH - BASICSImportant Points on ZakaahWhom can Zakaah be given to?Whom can Zakaah not be given to?

ZAKAAH (A Few short articles)

AQEEQAH  

FESTIVALS OF ISLAM

HAJJ The Importance of HajjUpon whom is Hajj Fard?The Faraa'id of HajjWaajibaats of HajjWhat are the MiqaatsThe Five Days of HajjTalbiaWhat is UmrahActions not permitted during HajjAyyaam-e-Tashreeq

Hajj, Umrah and Ziarah

QURBAANIImportant Points about QurbaaniAnimals that can be SacrificedPhysical Condition of the AnimalMethod of Slaughter

DEATH AND JANAZAHSalaatul JanazahFard of Salaatul JanazahThe Manner of Making Salaatul JanazahLate-comers for the Salaatul Janazah

DUROOD SHAREEF

What is Durood Shareef?How to Read the Durood Shareef, Blessings of Durood Shareef

THINGS THAT ARE HARAAM  

NATURAL ACTS OF CLEANLINESS  

THE ADAAB OF EATING AND DRINKING  

GOOD CONDUCT

ADAAB OF DRESSING

SHORT SURAHS (with commentaries)SURAH FATEHA;SURAH IKHLAAS;SURAH KAUSAR;SURAH NAAS ;SURAH FALAQ;SURAH LAHAB;SURAH NASR;SURAH KAAFIROON;SURAH MA'OON ;SURAH QURAISH ;SURAH FEEL;SURAH ASR;SURAH TAKATHUR;SURAH QADR ;SURAH INSHIRAH ;SURAH DHUHA ;SURAH THEEN

QUESTION AND ANSWERS

    Assalamu ‘Alaykum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu,

Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem.

ASALATU WASALAMU ALAYKA YA RASULLALLAH Salla Allahu ta’ala ‘alayhi wa Sallam,

5 MAJOR IMPURITIESThere are 5 major impurities (things that are not clean or pure) that we Muslims should be aware of. These are :-

1. Urine 2. Excreta 3. Blood

4. Matter or Pus 5. Alcohol

Of course, there are other impurities. But we have mentioned the ones that affect you. Besides keeping our bodies clean it is very important for us to keep our clothes clean. If any of these impurities stains our clothes, then our clothes will become unclean. If this happens, then one has to wash one’s clothes under running water at least 3 times for it to become clean. We also have to make sure that the clothes be squeezed thoroughly after each wash to remove all stains of the impurity.

TAHAARAH

As Muslims we must always be in a state of “Tahaarah” or “Cleanliness.” The Holy Quran says: “Surely Allah loves those who turn to him and those who care for cleanliness.” (2:222)

There are 3 ways for a Muslim to be in a state of Tahaarah :

1. Ghusal 2. Wudu 3. Tayyamum

GHUSAL

Ghusal is an act of washing the whole body from the head to the toe. “Ghusal” means “Bath.” We must use clean running water to have a Ghusal so that all the dirt will be removed from our body.

Method of Making Ghusal

Read the Niyyah:

1. Wash both your hands up to the wrist. 2. Wash the private parts properly to remove all the dirt. Remove all pubic hair and the hair from under the arms. 3. Make WUDU. Ensure that the mouth and the nostrils are washed properly. Also brush your teeth and gargle your mouth till the throat. 4. Wash the entire head properly. 5. Then wash the entire body, making sure that every part is washed properly. Start with the right-hand side of the body and then the left-hand side. 6. When you have completed the Ghusal, dry the whole body with a clean towel and get dressed as quickly as possible.

The Fards (Faraa’id) of Ghusal

Now that you have a brief idea of how to make Ghusal, you should learn the Fards

(Faraa’id) of Ghusal which are:

1. To wash the whole mouth. If you are not fasting, then you must gargle your mouth until the water reaches the throat. 2. To cleanse the nostrils. 3. To wash the whole body thoroughly from the head to the toe.

The Sunnahs of Ghusal

There are certain actions in Ghusal which are Sunnah. If you perform these actions you will get great Thawaab. These actions are:

1. The person should make the Niyyah or intention for Ghusal. 2. Washing the hands 3 times till the wrist. 3. Washing the private parts thoroughly. 4. All dirt from the body should be removed. 5. To perform the Wudu. 6. To pour water over the right shoulder 3 times and then over the left shoulder 3 times. 7. To pour water over the head and the whole body 3 times. 8. Washing the feet when Ghusal is completed and then leaving the place of Ghusal. 9. To make Ghusal in a private place. If you are making Ghusal in the bathroom, make sure that the door is closed and nobody can see you. 10. Make sure that you do not read or speak while making Ghusal. If somebody does call you and you need to reply then make a noise or sound like you are clearing your throat. The person will know that you are making Ghusal and will not disturb you. 11. To dry the body with a clean towel or cloth.

Note: (a) Do not face the Qiblah when making Ghusal or making Istinja. Remember not to build toilets and bathrooms facing the Qiblah. (b) You may stand or sit when making Ghusal, but it is better that you sit. (c) Do not waste water.

When is it Sunnah to make Ghusal?

There are certain occasions in which it is Sunnah to make Ghusal. Some of these occasions are:

1. For Jummah Salaah. 2. For both the Eids (Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha). 3. On the Day of Arafaat. 4. Before one wears the Ihraam.

When is it Mustahab to make Ghusal?

It is “Mustahab” or “preferable” to make Ghusal on the following occasions :

1. Staying at Arafaat. 2. Staying at Muzdalifa. 3. When entering Masjidul Haram. 4. When visiting the Masjid-un-Nabawi. 5. Making Tawaaf. 6. When entering Mina. 7. When stoning the Shaytaan (on the 3 days). 8. Laylatul Baraat (Night of Baraat). 9. Laylatul Qadr (Night of Power). 10. On the night of Arafaat. 11. For the Mawlood-un-Nabi (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and when attending all Islamic functions. 12. After making Ghusal for the dead. 13. After the person is cured of madness or illness. 14. After unconsciousness. 15. After intoxication (drunkenness). 16. Before making Tauba. 17. When wearing new clothes. 18. After returning from a journey. 19. For most of the Nawaafil Salaah like Salaatul Istisqa and others. 20. When there is unnatural darkness in the skies. 21. On the afternoon of a very hot day to wash away perspiration. 22. When embracing Islam.

WUDU

Wudu (Ablution) is the key to Salaah and it is essential that we perform Wudu first before we begin Salaah. These are the steps to take when making Wudu:

Method of making Wudu

First, make the Niyyah (Intention) for Wudu:

a: Wash both the hands up to the wrist 3 times making sure that water has reached between the fingers. b: Next, put a handful of water into the mouth and rinse it thoroughly 3 times. c: After this, sniff water into the nostrils 3 times to clean them and then wash the tip of the nose 3 times. d: Wash the face 3 times from right ear and from the forehead to the throat. e: Wash the right arm and then the left arm thoroughly from the wrist to the elbow 3 times. f: Then move the palm of the wet hand over the head, starting from the top of the

forehead to the back and pass both hands over the back of the head to the neck. g: Next, rub wet fingers into the grooves of both ears and holes and also pass the wet thumbs behind the ears. h: Next pass the back of wet hands over the nape. i: Finally, wash both feet to the ankles starting from the right and making sure that water has reached between the toes and all other parts of the feet.

The Fards (Faraa’id) of Wudu

There are 4 Fard in Wudu which we must strictly follow. These 4 Fards are:

1. To wash the face - which is from the forehead till the chin and from one ear to the other ear once. 2. To wash both the arms till the elbows once. 3. To make Masah of at least a quarter of the head. By quarter is meant 4 fingers width. 4. To wash the feet till the ankles once. 5. If these 4 actions are not carried out, then the Wudu will be incomplete. It will, therefore, be Haraam for a person to read Salaah.

The Sunnahs of Wudu

There are also some Sunnahs of the Wudu, which if you perform will earn you immense Thawaab. These Sunnahs are:

1. To make the intention of Wudu before you begin. 2. To say “Bismillah” before you begin. 3. To wash the hands up to the wrist 3 times. 4. To gargle the mouth. 5. To wash the nostril. 6. To use Miswaak to clean the teeth. “Miswaak” is a special tooth-brush made from the roots of certain trees. 7. To make Wudu in the correct sequence. 8. To wash all parts immediately one after the other. 9. To wash all parts 3 times. 10. To make Masah of the ears. 11. To make Masah of the whole head. 12. To make “Khilal” of the beard (pass wet fingers through the beard). 13. To make Khilal of the fingers and toes (pass wet fingers in between the toes and fingers).

When does Wudu become Makrooh ?

There are certain actions which are “Makrooh” or “undesirable” in Wudu. Some of these actions are:

1. To make Wudu in a dirty place.

2. To cleanse the nose using the right hand. 3. To talk of worldly things while making Wudu. 4. To perform Wudu in any sequence, for example, to wash the feet first then the face. 5. To waste water. 6. To use too little water so that certain parts are not washed properly. 7. To splash water on the face. 8. To ask someone for help in making Wudu without a proper reason.

The Mustahabs of Wudu

There are certain acts which are “Mustahab” or “preferable” in Wudu. Some of these acts are:

1. To face the Qiblah. Remember that you should not spit towards the Qiblah. 2. To make Wudu in a clean place. 3. To read “Bismillah” before washing each part. 4. To read the proper Du’as when washing each part. 5. To wash each part from the right side. 6. To shift or to remove rings or bangles and to let the water pass under these objects. 7. To clean the nostrils with the left hand. 8. To clean the inside of the ears. 9. To read the Du’a and the Kalimah Shahaadah after Wudu and to also read Surah Qadr facing towards the sky.

Actions which Break Wudu and Tayyammum

There are certain actions which break the Wudu and Tayyammum. We will learn about Tayyammum later. What are these actions? These actions are:

1. Any discharge from one’s private part, for example urine, stool, wind, or any substances. 2. When blood, pus or any matter flows out from a cut, wound, sore or pimple. 3. When one vomits a mouthful. 4. When one falls off to sleep while leaning or lying down. 5. When one becomes mad, faints or gets epileptic fits. 6. Laughing aloud in Salaah. 7. The spitting of blood, if the blood is more than the saliva. 8. When one becomes drunk or looses ones frame of mind either through drinking alcohol or taking drugs.

When is it Mustahab to make Wudu?

There are certain occasions when it is Mustahab to make Wudu. Some of these are:

1. When one awakens from sleep. 2. Before every Fard Salaah, even if one already has Wudu.

3. When one becomes angry. 4. When reading the Holy Quran from memory (Hifz). 5. When listening to Islamic lectures and when learning or teaching Islam. 6. When giving Azaan or Takbeer or when delivering the Khutbah. 7. When visiting sacred places like the Mazaars of the Awliya Allah. 8. When making Wuqoof on the plains of Arafaat on the 9th of Zil Hajj. 9. When making Sa’ee between Saffa and Marwa. 10. After backbiting and after committing a sin. 11. When visiting the grave-yard.

Masah over the Bandage or Plaster

”Masah” is to wipe over a specific area, in this case the plaster or the bandage, with wet hands. If any part of the body which has to be washed in Wudu and has a plaster or bandage over it, then one is permitted to make Masah over the plaster and bandage. Remember that Masah, in this case, can only be done if:

1. By removing the bandage or plaster causes pain. 2. Water is harmful to the wound. 3. Water lengthens the healing process.

Warning

Without Wudu or Tayyammum, you cannot:

1. Carry or touch the Holy Quran that is without a proper cover. 2. Read Salaah. 3. Make Tawaaf. 4. Perform the Sajdah Tilaawah.

TAYYAMMUM

”Tayyammum” or “Dry Ablution” can be done in place of Wudu or Ghusal.

Conditions for Tayyammum

Tayyammum can only be made under the following conditions:

1. If there is no water after making a search for water within a two and a half kilometre (2.5 km) area. 2. If a person is very sick and fears that the use of water will cause more illness or harm to the person. 3. If a person is becoming late for Janazah Salaah or Eid Salaah. 4. If a person fears being attacked by snakes or animals if he or she goes for water. 5. When water is very scarce and only sufficient for drinking purposes.

How to Make Tayyammum

STEP 1: Make the Niyyah (Intention) for Tayyammum: STEP 2: Strike both hands on the earth, sand or dust or any object having dust on it. Then, dust the hands clean or blow the extra dust off the hands and wipe the entire face (as done in Wudu) without leaving out any part of the face. STEP 3: Strike both hands again on the ground, dust clean and wipe the right arm up to the elbow with the left hand and left arm with the right hand. Make Khilal of the fingers. If one is wearing a ring or bangle, it is necessary to remove it or shift it. If one has a beard, it is Sunnah to also make Khilal of the beard (run fingers through the beard).

The Fard (Faraa’id) of Tayyammum

The Faraa’id of Tayyammum are:

1. To make the Niyyah (intention) for Tayyammum. 2. Striking both palms on the earth or dust and wiping them over the face. 3. Striking both palms on the earth or dust and wiping them over the arms till the elbows.

The Sunnahs of Tayyammum

The Sunnahs of Tayyammum are:

1. To begin with the “Bismillah.” 2. To start with the right hand. 3. To make Khilal of the beard. 4. To make Khilal of the fingers. 5. To make Tayyammum in the proper sequence.

Objects on which Tayyammum can be Performed

1. Earth (clean soil) 2. Sand 3. Stone 4. Lime 5. Baked earthen pots which are unglazed. 6. Walls of mud, stone or brick. 7. Clay 8. Things that do not melt or burn to ashes.

Objects on which Tayyammum cannot be Performed

1. Wood 2. Metals 3. Glass 4. Food

5. Items which burns to ash or which rots and melts.

Actions which break Tayyammum

1. The same actions which break the Wudu or Ghusal. 2. The finding of water. 3. After one is fit. 4. If there is no more danger from snakes or animals.

Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem.

ASALATU WASALAMU ALAYKA YA RASULLALLAH Salla Allahu ta’ala ‘alayhi wa Sallam.

AZAAN

1.It is Sunnat-e-Mu’akkidah to invite the Muslims to each Fard Salaah through calling out the Azaan. 2. The “Mu’azzin” is the person who calls out the Azaan. 3. It is the Mu’azzin’s duty to remember the correct times of Salaah and the manner of reciting the Azaan. 4 The Mu’azzin: 4.1 must be in a state of Wudu, 4.2 must stand in a specific place made for calling out the Azaan, 4.3 must face the Qiblah, 4.4 must place his Shahaadah fingers in his ears, and 4.5 call out the Azaan in a loud voice. 5. The Mu’azzin must avoid calling out the Azaan in a singing style. 6. The Arabic words of the Azaan must be recited with a “pulling” tone only at those places where it is permissable to “pull.” Therefore, it is necessary for the Mu’azzin to know Tajweed. 7. The Azaan must be called out in a clear and simple manner. 8. One should repeat the words of the Azaan after the Mu’azzin. However, after you hear: “Hayya alas Salaah” and ”Hayya alal falaah,” you should say : “There is no Help or Strength except that which comes from Allah.” 9. If one hears the Azaan being recited and is not in the Masjid, one must immediately go to the Masjid for Salaah. 10. After Azaan, it is a great Thawaab to lift both hands and read the Du’a After Azaan. 11. It is also Mustahab to kiss both fingernails of the thumbs and rub them over the eyes when you hear the Mu’azzin read: ”I bear Witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.” 11.1 The first time that you hear “Muhammaddar Rasulullah” (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), you should say: “O Rasulullah! The coolness in my eyes is through you.” 11.2 The second time that you hear the same, you should say: “O Allah! Make me enjoy vision and sight.” This was a practise of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah’s (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) beloved

Sahaba, Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu). We must also make this our practise as there is great Thawaab in this. 12 . When the Mu’azzin says: “Hayya alas Salaah” he should turn towards the right each time. 13 .When the Mu’azzin says: “Hayya alal Falah” he should turn towards the left each time. Remember, do not turn the shoulders and the entire body, but only the face.

The Words of the Azaan

”Allah is the Greatest” (4 times) ”I bear witness that there is no god but Almighty Allah.” (2 times) ”I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Almighty Allah.” (2 times) ”Come to Salaah” (2 times) ”Come to Success” (2 times) ”Almighty Allah is the Greatest” (2 times) ”There is no god but Almighty Allah” (once) After reciting the “Hayya alal falah” for the Fajar Salaah, the Mu’azzin should read: “Prayer is better than sleep.” (2 times)

IQAAMAH

1. The “Iqaamah” is the call to gather the Jamaah (Congregation) for the Fard Salaah inside the Masjid. 2. The “Mukabbir” is the person who recites the Iqaamah. 3. The Iqaamah must be recited in a voice loud enough for the Jamaah to hear. 4. If you are reading the Fard Salaah alone it is necessary for you to recite the Iqaamah. 5. The words of the Iqaamah is the same as in the Azaan, except that the Mukabbir will read after the “Hayya alal Falah”: “Prayer has indeed begun.” “Prayer has indeed begun.” 6. The Mukabbir must not turn his face during “Hayya alas Salaah” and “Hayya alal Falah.” 7. The Mukabbir must not place his Shahaadah fingers in his ears during the Iqaamah but should stand with his arms at his side. 8. It is also Mustahab to remain sitting when the Iqaamah is being recited and to stand at the point when you hear “Hayya alal Falah.”

SALAAH

The Benefits of Salaah

The Holy Quran says: "Establish Salaah to remember Me (Allah)." (20:14)

Before we explain how Salaah should be read, we will list some of the benefits of Salaah to help you gain a better understanding of this very important form of Ibaadah.

1. Salaah with Jamaah increases Muslim Brotherhood. 2. Salaah makes us remember that Almighty Allah Sees and Hears us. 3. Salaah builds love for Almighty Allah and for His special servants, the Ambiya (Prophets) and Awliya (Saints). 4. Salaah destroys the evil within us. 5. Salaah acts like a light and leads us away from darkness and trouble. 6. Salaah teaches us discipline. 7. Salaah builds "Taqwa" or "Piety" in us. 8. Just as food maintains our body, Salaah maintain our Soul (Ruh).

Forbidden Times of Salaah

Almighty Allah says in the Holy Quran: "Salaah at fixed times has been enjoined on the believers." (4:103) It is forbidden to read any Salaah or to make Sajdah Tilaawah during these 3 times of the day:

1. When the sun is rising. 2. When the sun is at its highest point (Zawaal). 3. When the sun is setting.

It is forbidden to read any Nafil Salaah:

a. after the break of dawn, b. before sunrise, c. after the Fard of the Fajar Salaah, d. after Asar Salaah until sunset, and e. during the Khutbah of both the Eids and the Jummah Salaah.

The Conditions of Salaah

Before performing the Salaah there are certain conditions that a person must be aware of. It is Fard to follow these conditions :

1. Tahaarah: to make sure that the body and the clothes are clean. 2. Make sure that the place where Salaah is being read is clean. 3. To cover the body properly:- 3.1 For the male it is necessary to cover the body from the navel till below the knees.

3.2 For the female it is necessary to cover the body from the head to the feet, except the face. 3.3 The feet till the ankles and the hands till the wrist must be covered. 4. To face the Qiblah. 5. To make sure that the Salaah is read in the specified times. 6. To make the correct Niyyah for Salaah. 7. To be a Muslim with correct Islamic beliefs.

The Faraa'id (Fard) of Salaah

There are 7 Faraa'id of Salaah:-

1. Takbeer-e-Tahreemah (the first Allah Akbar) 2. Qiyaam (standing) 3. Qiraah 4. Ruku 5. Sajdah 6. Qadah Akheerah 7. To indicate the end of Salaah.

The Waajibaat (Wajib) of Salaah

Waajibs are those actions which are compulsory. In Salaah there are certain Waajib actions that, if when left out, can be corrected through Sajdah Sahw. The Waajibaat of Salaah are:

1. To read Surah Fatiha in every Rakaah. 2. To read one short Surah, or to read one long Ayah or to read 3 short Ayah after the Surah Fatiha in the first 2 Rakaah of the Fard Salaah and in all the Rakaah of other Salaah (non-Fard Salaah). 3. To read the Salaah in the correct sequence. 4. To stand erect after Ruku (Qiyaam) before going for Sajdah. 5. To sit in Jalsa position between the two Sujood (Sajdas). 6. To sit in Qadah 'Ula after 2 Rakaah when you are reading a 4 or 3 Rakaah Salaah. 7. To read Attahiyaat in Qadah 'Ula and Qadah Akheerah. 8. To read Salaah without rushing. 9. To read Du'a Qunoot in the Witr Salaah of Isha. 10. The Imaam should read aloud during: 10.1The first 2 Rakaah of the Fard of Fajar, Maghrib and Isha Salaah. 10.2 The two Rakaah of the Jummah and Eid Salaah. 10.3 The Taraweeh and Witr Salaah during the Month of Ramadaan. 11. The Imaam should read silently in: 11.1 All the Rakaah of the Zohar and Asar Salaah. 11.2 The third Rakaah of the Maghrib Salaah. 11.3 The third and fourth Rakaah of the Isha Salaah. 12. To read 6 extra Takbeers in both the Eid Salaah. 13. To end the Salaah with the words of Salaam. 14. Among the Waajibaats of Sajdah, it is compulsory that at least 3 toes must touch the ground facing the Qiblah.

The Sunnah of Salaah

There are certain actions which are Sunnah in Salaah. If one misses these Sunnahs, then the Thawaab of the Salaah is reduced. What are these Sunnahs?

The Sunnah of Takbeer-e-Tahreema

1. It is Sunnah for the males to lift up their hands to their ears for Takbeer, while the females should lift up their hands to their shoulders. 2. While lifting the hands, the fingers should be kept relaxed with the palms facing towards the Qiblah. 3. The males, after lifting up their hands, should then fold them below their navels with the right hand over the left hand. The females should place their hands on their chest, with the right hand over the left hand.

The Sunnah of Qiyaam

1. Stand with the feet parallel to each other. There must be about a four finger width gap between the feet. 2. The body must be straight with the head lowered and the eyes should be directed to the spot where Sajdah is to be made.

The Sunnah of Qiraah

1. To read the Thana. 2. To read the Ta'oozu or "A'oozubillah." 3. To read the Tasmiyah or "Bismillah." 4. To read "Bismillah" at the beginning of every Rakaah. 5. To say "Ameen" at the end of Surah Fatiha. 6. To read the Ta'oozu, Tasmiyah and say the Ameen silently. 7. The first Rakaah should be longer than the second Rakaah.

The Sunnah of Ruku

1. To say the Takbeer, "Allahu Akbar", when going into Ruku. 2. To read the Tasbeeh of Ruku 3 times. 3. To hold (clutch) the knees firmly. The males should have their fingers spaced out while clutching their knees, while the females should have their fingers closed. 4. The legs should be straight and not bent at the knees. 5. The back should be in line with the neck. This means that it must be straight so that if a glass of water is placed on the back of a person, the water will not spill over. 6. To read the Tasmiyah when waking up from Ruku and to read the Tahmeed while in Qiyaam.

The Sunnah of Sajdah

1. When going into Sajdah make sure that the knees touch the ground first, followed by the hands, the nose and, lastly, the forehead. 2. When waking up from Sajdah, the whole method should be reversed. 3. In Sajdah, the fingers should be closed and facing the Qiblah. The forehead should rest between the hands. 4. To say the Takbeer, "Allahu Akbar", when going into Sajdah and when waking up from Sajdah. 5. To read the Tasbeeh of Sajdah three times. 6. When in Sajdah, the males should make sure that their stomach does not rest on their thighs and that the arms does not rest flat on the ground. 7. Females should keep their stomach close to their thighs and their arms should be flat on the ground and close to their bodies. 8. All the toes of the feet must touch the ground.

The Sunnah of Qa'dah

1. Males should sit on the left foot by placing it flat on the ground and the right foot should be up with the toes facing the Qiblah. 2.Females should sit on their left rear, placing both their feet out to the right. 3. Place the palms of both hands above the knees. 4. When reading "Attahiyaat", lift the right Shahaadah finger on reaching the "Laa" of "Ashhadu al laa ilaaha." Fold the rest of the fingers into a ball and lower the Shahaadah finger on reaching "Illal laahu." 5. To read the Durood-e-Ebrahim and any Masnoon Du'a after this.

The Sunnah of Salaam

1. The face should be first turned to the right and then to the left when making Salaam. 2. When making Salaam in Jamaah, one should have the intention of greeting the Imaam, the Musallies and the Angels. A person who is reading alone should make the intention of greeting the Angels.

The Mustahabaat (Mustahabs) of Salaah

1. Look at the place where you make Sajdah when in the Qiyaam position. 2. During Ruku you should look at the feet. 3. The eyes should focus on the nose during Sajdah. 4. When in the Qa'dah position the eyes should focus at the knees or the thighs. 5. When making Salaam, the eyes should be focused on the shoulders. 6. One should avoid coughing. 7. One should avoid yawning.

The Makroohaats (Makroohs) of Salaah

1. To scratch the body unnecessarily. 2. Playing with one's clothes. 3. To close ones eyes through tiredness. 4. To miss out any Sunnah deliberately. 5. To make the second Rakaah longer than the first. 6. To read the Surah in the incorrect sequence, for example, to read Surah An Naas in the first Rakaah and then Surah Al Falaq after. 7. To read Salaah when one is very hungry, or one has to go to toilet or when the food has already been served.

Actions which Break the Salaah

There are certain actions which break the Salaah. They are called "Mufsidaat-e-Salaah." If these actions occur, one will have to re-read the Salaah. What are these actions?

1. To utter any word that is not part of the Salaah. 2. To cry out in pain. 3. If Wudu breaks. 4. When one loses his senses. 5. When a persons chest is intentionally turned away from the Qiblah more than 45 degrees. 6. When one leaves out any Fard. 7. When one reads the Holy Quran incorrectly. 8. When one eats or drinks in Salaah. 9. When one moves about in Salaah in different directions. 10. To step ahead of the Imaam. 11. To laugh or giggle. 12. When the private parts are revealed. 13. When one performs "Fe-le Katheer". Fe-le Katheer are those actions which will lead the observer to believe that one is not in Salaah, for example, tying one's belt, removing one's handkerchief, wiping one's nose, and so on.

Note: If the hat falls to the floor while Salaah is being performed the person can pick it up and wear it without causing a lot of movement.

THE IMPORTANCE OF SALAAH 

Salaah is the soul of all our Ibaadaat (prayers). The Pious predecessors have stated that if a person does not perform his Salaah, then no other Ibaadat performed by him or her is accepted and if a person loves Salaah and is punctual in his Salaah then Allah Willing, his or her wrongs will all be forgiven. We should thus try our best to perform our Salaah and also show strictness in our homes so that our families may also perform their Salaah.Hazrat Esa (alaihis salaam) once passed by a river. There he saw a beautiful and elegant looking bird lying in a puddle of mud and dirt. The bird's entire body was covered with filth. He then noticed this bird come out of the mud and then dive into the river until it was clean and beautiful again. Thereafter, the bird once again flew into the dirt and mud and became covered with filth. Once more, the bird left the mud and flew into the river again until it was clean and beautiful again. This astonishing act was repeated five times. Hazrat Esa (alaihis salaam) began to wonder as to the reason for this strange sequence of events. Sayyiduna Jibraeel-e-Amin (alaihis salaam) descended and told him: "This bird is equal to a human from the Ummah of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Each time he sins he becomes unclean, and when he performs his Salaah, then Almighty Allah purifies him just like the mud and dirt that was cleansed from the bird".

It has been narrated that when a persons Salaah is accepted, then as a reward Almighty Allah creates an Angel that remains in Ruku and Sujood making Tasbeeh until the Day of Qiyamah. The Sawaab of all the Ibaadat of this Angel is recorded in the books of the Salaahi.

It has been stated in authentic sources that on the Day of Qiyamah as the people will be passing over Pul-Siraat, which is thinner than a hair and sharper than a sword, there will be a group of people who will say that they are too scared to cross over the bridge. Sayyiduna Jibraeel (alaihis salaam) will ask them how they used to cross the oceans in the world. They they will say that they did so with ships. On hearing their answer, the Musjids that they worshipped in will be brought and they will sit in these Musjids and pass safely over Pul-Siraat.

The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) once asked the Sahaba if any dirt would remain on the body of a person who bathed five times daily in a stream in front of his home. They said that no dirt would remain. He then said: "This is the example of the five daily Salaah. Any person who reads his five daily Salaah, is purified of his sins and bad doings by Allah".

Hazrat Abu Zar (radi allahu anhu) states that it was winter and the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) came out of his Hujra. He went to a tree, held it's branch and shook it. This caused it's leaves to fall off easily. He then said, "O Abu Air and I replied, 'I am present Ya Rasoolallah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)'". He said: "When a Muslim reads Salaah for Allah, then his sins fall like the leaves of a tree".

Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was questioned concerning which actions were the most loved and closest to Allah. He replied by saying: "To perform Salaah in its appointed time, and he who leaves Salaah has no Deen." Salaah is the pillar of Deen, the Me'raj of a Mu'min and a sign of success. An intelligent man is one who

goes from a low position to a higher position, and an ignorant man is one who proceeds from a high position to a low position. Mustahab is greater than Mubah. Sunnah is greater than Mustahab. Waajib is greater than Sunnah. Fard is greater than Waajib. Greater than all Faraa'idh is Salaah. Even though we make Urs, Fateha, etc, we should remember that the greatest Ibaadat is Salaah. Without this, all our other Ibaadaat is incomplete. The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has stated: "When your child reaches the age of seven teach him Salaah. When he reaches ten, shun him if he does not read his Salaah". He also said: "Read your Salaah before your Janazah is read".

It has been stated that on the Day of Qiyamah, will come in the form of white camels whose feet will be made from Amber, their necks from Saffron, their heads from musk, and their reigns from emeralds. Those who gave Azaan will be in front, the Imams of Musjids will guide them forward from behind and behind the Imaams will be the musallees who sincerely read Salaah in Jamaat behind the Imaam. When the others will see this on the Day of Qiyamah they will enquire whether these people are Angels or Prophets. It will be said to them that they are neither. They will be told that such are the Ummah of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) who were punctual in their Salaah.

Dear Muslim brothers and sisters! Perform your Salaah, for Salaah will assist us in this world, in our graves, and on the Day of Qiyamah.

THE IMPORTANCE OF PERFORMING SALAAH WITH CONGREGATION (JAMAAH)

Salaah is obligatory upon every mature Muslim male and female. Whether a Muslim is black, white, rich or poor, literate or illiterate, Salaah is Fardh upon him or her five times a day. Salaah is not Maaf at any time. Salaah is a pillar of religion, recognition of faith and the key to Jannah. Salaah is the Sunnah of the Ambiya, coolness of the eyes of the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and the Me'raj of the Believers.

Salaah is the greatest of all Ibaadah and the most important obligation. It washes away sins and builds good deeds. It saves one from Hell and guides one towards Paradise. By reading Salaah, one gains the Pleasure of Almighty Allah and the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), love of Angels, safety from calamities, good health, healthy life, Barakah in sustenance and blessings in all aspects of life. The grave of the Salaahi will be enlightened with Noor. On the Day of Reckoning, he shall rise close to the Prophets, Saints, Martyrs and Pious Ones.

If a child is seven years of age, he should be taught to read Salaah, and when he or she reaches the age of ten years, they should be warned and shunned if they do not comply. Laziness in Salaah is a sign of hypocrisy. To leave out Salaah completely is a sign of Kufr and to refute or make a mockery of it is Kufr. A non-Salaahi is disliked by Almighty Allah and His Rasool (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). There is great torment for him in the grave. His grave will be cramped and reckoning will be harsh. He will rise with Qaroon, Firawn, Hamaan and Ubayy ibn Khalf. No other good deed of his will be accepted.

Salaah should be read sincerely with congregation in the masjid. To leave out the Jamaah without reason is a major sin. To read Salaah in Jamaah is 27 times more excellent than reading alone. In Jummah and in Eidain, the Jamaah is a pre-condition without which there is no Salaah. In Taraweeh, congregational prayers is Sunnat-e-Kifaayah. To read Witr Salaah with Jamaah in Ramadaan is Mustahab (desirable). Congregation for Nafil and Sunnah is Makrooh. For women to be present in any congregational prayer is disallowed.

For Jamaah, the Imam has to be present. The Imam should be a Sunni - Sahihul Aqeedah. He should know the laws pertaining to Salaah and he should recite the Quran correctly. Salaah behind open sinners, clean shaven persons, those who do not keep a Shar'i beard, etc. is Makrooh-e-Tahreemi and Waajib to repeat. In other words, Salaah read behind such persons should be repeated.

Salaah read behind hypocrites, misled persons, Dushman (Enemy)-e-Rasool, non-Mazhabites, insulters of the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) in any way, be it by saying that he is mixed in the sand (Ma'azallah), he does not possess sufficient knowledge (Ma'azallah), he is an ordinary human being like us (Ma'azallah), he is unaware of the happenings in this world (Ma'azallah), he is not the Final Messenger (Ma'azallah), etc. - all these statements lead a person out of Islam and Salaah behind such persons is totally forbidden since there is no Salaah behind such a persons. Salaah is not just any worldly transaction, but it is for Allah. Thus, one should not read Salaah behind just anyone, but should be satisfied with the Imam's character and Aqeedah.

After Salaah, it is of great blessing to make Du'a. The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said that Dua is the crux and soul of Ibaadah. To lift up your hands after Azaan and Salaah to make Dua for the Believers is loved by Almighty Allah, a Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), a practice of the Sahaba and a means of mercy and reward. To shake hands, and make Salaam to one another after Salaah is also permitted.

Remember: Only stand for Salaah after hearing "Hayya alas Salaah" and "Hayya alal Falah" in the Iqaamah. To stand before this is Makrooh and to follow the proper practice of sitting is Mustahab (desirable) and a sign of the Ahle Sunnah.

THE PROHIBITION OF WEARING FOLDED CLOTHES IN SALAAH

Those people who fold their hems of their pants over their ankles believe that by doing this they are making their Salaah proper, but by doing this they are making their Salaah Makrooh Tahrimee (undesirable).

According to the Shari'ah to read (perform) Salaah with folded clothes is Makrooh. The following Ahadith are very explicit on this matter.

"I was ordered to prostrate on seven parts and not to fold clothes and not to coil hair." (Sihah Sittah) "I was ordered not to fold clothes and not to coil hair." (Bukhari & Muslim) "To fold (gather or lift) clothes for Salaah is Makrooh." (Quoted in most Kitaabs)

"To fold clothes in Salaah or to lift clothes with both hands from front or back at the time of sajdah with a small action is Makrooh or to enter (Salaah) Salaah with folded clothes is Makrooh." (Ghoonyha- quoted in Fatawa Razvia)

To read Salaah with folded clothes is Makrooh Tahrimee (necessary to repeat the Salaah) and to read Salaah with pants hanging over the ankle and below the ankle is Makrooh Tanzeehi (not necessary to repeat the Salaah).

It is not necessary to repeat the Salaah as A'la Hadrat, Imam-e-Ahle Sunnat (radi Allahu anhu) has stated in "Fatawa Razvia," Vol.3: "To leave the pants hanging below the ankle with pride is Haraam and to perform Salaah with this intention is Makrooh Tahrimee, otherwise it is Makrooh Tanzeehi."

THE EASY WAY TO PERFORM SALAAH THAT ONE HAS MISSED OF THE PAST AGE

It is compulsory upon each and every adult Muslim male and female to perform Salaah. If a person started performing Salaah after a few years of his or her adult age, the balance of the Salaah due is compulsory upon him or her. For example: If Abdullah has become an adult at the age of 14, but at the age of 20 he started reading his Salaah, the balance of 6 years of Salaah is due on him. If the person does not remember the date of his adulthood, that person should consider 12 years as being their adult age. According to Islamic Fiqah, boys become adults at the age of 14 years.

If the female does not know when her adult age is, she can consider 9 years as being her adult age. Over and above she can further reduce her days by considering her monthly course period. Salaah is not compulsory in this time. In this way she can perform the balance of the Salaah that she had missed.

Each and every person should perform the balance of the Salaah immediately. Nobody knows when death will come or sickness and other work necessary in life. Salaah should be performed in time. Instead of performing Sunnat-e-Ghair- Muakkidah and Nawaafil Salaah, it is essential to perform the Salaah that are due. Instead of performing Nawaafil Salaah on important nights, it is better to perform the Salaah that are due. One must have hope on Almighty Allah that we will benefit from both the fard and Nawaafil Salaah together.

There are 20 Rakaahs of Fard Salaah in a day: Fajr (2), Zohar (4), Asr (4), Maghrib (3), Esha (4) and Witr (3). These Salaah can be performed any time accept during Zawaal, sunrise and sunset (During these period Salaah is Haraam). You should perform all balance of Salaah quickly without laziness. Nawaafil will not be accepted by Almighty Allah if the balance of the Salaah that have to be performed are still due.

When you stand to perform your due Salaah, you must say that you are performing the due Salaah for say, Fajr, for the sake of Allah, facing the Kaaba, Allahu-Akbar. The same way for the other Fard and Witr Salaah. If a perform has a lot of balance Salaah to be performed, then A'la Hazrat (radi Allahu anhu) has shown an easy way:-

In the Fard Salaah, while performing the 3rd and 4th Rakaah, instead of reading the Alhamdu Shareef, say Subhanallah 3 times and go for Ruku. This rule is only for the 3rd and 4th Rakaah of Fard Salaah. Witr must be performed fully.

While in Ruku and Sajdah, say only one time Subhana-Rabbi-al Azeem and Subhana-Rabbi-al A'la, saying these words properly.

While performing the Fard and Witr Salaah, after the At-tahiyat, say only Durood.

During Witr Salaah, instead of reading the Dua-e-Qunoot, say 3 times Rabbigh Firlee. (Fatawa Razvia, Vol.3, pages 621-2 & Al- Malfoozat Shareef, Vol.1, page 60-1)

WHY DOES TARAWEEH HAVE TWENTY RAKAAH?

From the Ahadith, there is proof that Salaatul Taraweeh consists of 20 Rakaah of which 8 Rakaah make up Salaatul Layl and not Salaatul Taraweeh. A specific point shown to us by the Ulema is that the entire Quran consists of 540 Rukus. Hazrat

Uthman Ghani (radi Allahu anhu) used to perform 20 Rakaah of Taraweeh every night in Ramadaan and with one Ruku recited for each Rakaah, the entire Quran used to be completed by the 27th night of Ramadaan. Wherever Hazrat Uthman Ghani (radi Allahu anhu) had stopped to make Ruku in Salaah, that stopping point was marked in the Quran with a Ruku sign. This is proof that the Khulafa-e-Rashideen performed 20 Rakaah of Taraweeh and that we have to follow the example of the Khulafa-e-Rashideen (ridwanullahi ta'ala ajma'in).

ISLAMIC TERMS

There are certain Islamic Terms which you should remember and which will assist you to understand facts better. These terms are:

1. ADAA-E-SALAAH: To perform Salaah in its correct time. 2. QADA: To perform Salaah after its appointed time has passed. 3. JAMAAH SALAAH: To perform Salaah with the congregation. 4. IMAAM: One who leads the Salaah or congregation. 5. MUQTADI: One who follows the Imaam. 6. MUDRIK: One who follows the Imaam from the start to the finish of a Salaah. 7. MASBOOK: One who joins the Jamaah anytime after the first Ruku. 8. LAAHIQ: One who joins the Salaah from the beginning and then misses one or more Rakaah while in Salaah. 9. MUNFARID: One who reads the Salaah alone. 

KINDS OF RELIGIOUS ACTIONS

FARD:

Fard are those actions ordered by Almighty Allah and are compulsory. Anyone who rejects or denies a Fard becomes out of the fold of Islam. If a person leaves out a Fard without a valid excuse, then that person is a "Faasiq-e-Kabeer" or a great sinner. For example, a person becomes a great sinner by leaving out the Fard Salaah or not fasting in the Month of Ramadaan. 

FARD-E-KIFAAYAH:

Fard-e-Kifaayah are those actions which are compulsory, but if they are performed by a few or a single Muslim, it ends the responsibility of other Muslims. For example, attending the Salaatul Janazah and burial of the dead by a few Muslims removes the responsibility from other Muslims. 

WAAJIB:

Waajib actions are those actions which are second to Fard. If a person leaves out a Waajib action then that person commits a great sin. If a person rejects a Waajib action, he or she does not become a Kaafir. For example, if a person leaves out the Eid Salaah, Qurbaani or Sadqa-e-Fitr he or she does not become a Kaafir but is committing a great sin. 

SUNNAH:

Sunnah are those actions which have been performed by Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). We should also try to follow these actions to get Thawaab. 

SUNNAT-E-MU"AKKIDAH:

Sunnat-e-Mu'akkidah are those actions which have been performed by Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) regularly without a break. A person must perform these actions regularly for, by neglecting these actions, he or she becomes a sinner. For example, performing the two Sunnah of Fajar, or Taraweeh Salaah or using the Miswaak during Wudu are actions that must be done regularly without a break. 

SUNNAT-E-GHAIR MU'AKKIDAH:

Sunnat-e-Ghair Mu'akkidah are those actions which were performed by Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) with occasional breaks. For example, the four Sunnah of Asar and Isha Salaah. 

NAFIL OR MUSTAHAB:

Nafil or Mustahab are those actions which are approved by Shariah (Islamic Law). A person who performs these actions will receive Thawaab. If they are neglected then it would not make up a sin. 

HARAAM:

Haraam actions are those actions that are clearly forbidden by Almighty Allah. If a person rejects this prohibition, then he or she becomes a Kaafir. One who performs a Haraam act is a great sinner. For example, it is Haraam to gamble, drink alcohol and to eat pork. 

MAKROOH:

Makrooh actions are those actions disliked by Shariah. 

MAKROOH-E-TAHREEMI:

Makrooh-e-Tahreemi is an action that is close to Haraam and brings punishment to those who do it. It must be avoided. 

MAKROOH-E-TANZEEHI:

Makrooh-e-Tanzeehi is such an action that if it is avoided brings Thawaab, but if the action is carried out then there is no punishment.

WITR SALAAH

What is Witr Salaah?

1. Witr Salaah is Waajib. 2. There are 3 Rakaah in Witr Salaah. 3. Witr Salaah is read after Isha Salaah till "Subha Saadiq" dawn. 4. Witr Salaah cannot be read before the Fard of Isha Salaah. 5. In Ramadaan Witr Salaah is read with Jamaah.

6. It is Sunnah to read Surah A'ala in the first Rakaah, Surah Kaafirun in the second Rakaah and Surah Ikhlaas (Ahad) in the third Rakaah.

How to Perform the Witr Salaah

1. Make the intention of 3 Rakaah Witr. 2. After the Attahiyaat of the second Rakaah, stand up for the third Rakaah. 3. After Surah Fatiha and any Surah in the third Rakaah, and before going for Ruku, lift the hands up to the ears, saying "Allahu Akbar", and then fold them as usual. 4. Now, read Du'a-e-Qunoot. Refer to Hifz Syllabus. 5. After reciting this dua, go into Ruku and complete the Salaah.

SAJDAH SAHW

"Sajdah Sahw" are the 2 Sajdah that are performed at the end of the Salaah to correct a mistake made during Salaah.

When does Sajdah Sahw become Waajib?

Sajdah Sahw becomes Waajib in the following instances: 1. When a person leaves out a Waajib. 2. When a person changes the sequence of a Waajib or Fard action. 3. When a person delays a Waajib or Fard act for the period that it takes to read "Subhan Allah" 3 times. 4. When a person performs the Waajib or Fard act more than the required times, for example, when a person reads the Attahiyaat twice. 5. When a person changes the nature of a Waajib act, for example, to read aloud during the Fard Salaah of Asar and Zohar.

Other Rules Relating to Sajdah Sahw

1. In the case where Salaah is being performed with Jamaah and the Imaam makes a mistake requiring him to make Sajdah Sahw, then the Jamaah will have to follow the Imaam in Sajdah Sahw. 2. If a Muqtadi makes a mistake behind the Imaam, then no Sajdah Sahw is to be performed. 3. Sajdah Sahw is only made once, even though more than one mistake may have been made in that Salaah.

How to make Sajdah Sahw

After having read the Attahiyaat in the last Rakaah, make Salaam to the right only and then perform the 2 Sajdah. After this, read the Attahiyaat, the Durood-e-Ebrahim, the Dua and complete the Salaah with the Salaams.

JUMMAH SALAAH

Conditions for Jummah Salaah

There are certain conditions that a person must fulfil before Jummah Salaah becomes compulsory. They are: 1. To be a male. 2. To be within the boundary of a town.

3. To be healthy (physically able to perform the Salaah). 4. The road to the Masjid should be safe. 5. Not to be physically handicapped, for example, being blind or cripple.

Sunnah Acts on the Day of Jummah

1. Make Ghusal (bath), trim nails and remove the unwanted hairs of the body. 2. Wear clean clothes. Of course, this should be done at all times. 3. Use sweet scent (I'tr) when going to the Masjid. 4. Try and read the following Surahs: Surah Kahf and Surah Dukhaan. 5. It is highly recommended that one reads the Salaatus Tasbeeh. 6. Read as much Durood Shareef as possible. 7. Make as much Du'a as possible.

The Jummah Salaah

1. The time for Jummah Salaah starts after Zawaal until the end of the Zohar Salaah time. 2. After the first Azaan, read the 4 Rakaah Sunnat-e-Mu'akkidah. 3. The Imaam normally gives a short lecture. 4. Then the two Khutbah are read. You should not speak, read Salaah or make Zikr during the Khutbah. You should listen carefully to the Khutbah and face the Imaam. 5. After the Khutbah, 2 Rakaah Fard Salaah is read with Jamaah. 6. Thereafter, the following Salaah are read: 4 Rakaah Sunnat-e-Mu'akkidah, 2 Rakaah Sunnat-e-Mu'akkidah, and lastly, 2 Rakaah Nafil Salaah. 7. Since Jummah is not Waajib upon the females, they can read their Zohar Salaah at home. 8. A person who misses his Jummah Salaah can perform his Zohar Salaah. 9. Nowadays, it is seen that many youngsters rush off from the Masjid immediately after the Fard Salaah of Jummah. This is a great sin as they are leaving out the Sunnah of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). 10. It is a great sin for a male not to go for Jummah Salaah without a valid excuse. 11. Avoid talking and making noise in the Wudu Khana and Masjid during the lecture and the Khutbah. 12. Do not come late to the Masjid and miss out on listening to the Jummah Khutbah. Many have the habit of just entering the Masjid before the end of the Jummah Khutbah and rushing for the Fard Salaah. This is not a good practise. 13. It is of great benefit to recite the Salaatu Salaam (ie. send Salaams to Sayyiduna Rasulullah sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) after the Jummah Salaah.

TARAWEEH SALAAH

1. Taraweeh Salaah is Sunnat-e-Mu'akkidah for both males and females during the Month of Ramadaan. 2. Taraweeh Salaah consists of 20 Rakaah with Salaams after every 2 Rakaah. 3. After every 4 Rakaah, there is a short resting period, during which a Zikr and a Du'a is read. 4. During Taraweeh, it is Sunnah to complete the entire Quran at least once. 5. To perform Taraweeh Salaah with Jamaah is Sunnat-e-Kifaayah. 6. Witr Salaah is read with Jamaah after the Taraweeh Salaah.

SALAATUL MAREED

1. If a person is sick and cannot stand and read Salaah, he or she may sit and read Salaah. The head should be bent a little for Ruku and a little more for Sajdah. 2. If the person is very sick and cannot even sit up, then he or she may perform his Salaah while lying on his back. The head should be placed on a high position and the knees bent so that he or she will be able to bend the head a little for Ruku and a little more for Sajdah. If his or her knees cannot bend, then the legs should be facing straight towards the Qiblah. 3. If the person has been unconscious for less than 24 hours then he or she must perform the Qadah Salaah. If the person has been unconscious for more than 24 hours or more than the time in which 6 Salaah could have been performed, then there is no Qadah Salaah for that person.

SALAATUS SAFAR (QASR)

1 Muslims, with the intention of travelling 106 kilometres or more and intend staying at their destination for less than 15 days, must shorten their Salaah. 2. The Fard of Zohr, Asar and Isha Salaah is shortened from 4 to 2 Rakaah. 3. The number of Rakaah in the Fard of Maghrib and Fajar Salaah will remain the same and not be shortened. 4. The number of Rakaah in the Sunnah and Nafil Salaah (the other Salaah) will also remain the same. 5. If the "Musaafir" or traveller is in a hurry, he can leave out the Nafil Salaah. However, it is better that he performs it. 6. This shortening of Salaah on a journey is called "Qasr". 7. When the Musaafir reads behind an Imaam who is not a Musaafir, then the Musaafir should follow the Imaam during the entire Salaah. He must not shorten his Fard Salaah. 8. If the Imaam is a Musaafir, he should notify the Musallies before the Fard Salaah that he is a Musaafir. What should the Musallies do? As soon as the Imaam completes his Fard Salaah (Remember, that he has shortened his Salaah), and reads the Salaam, the Musallies must stand up after hearing the first Salaam and complete their last 2 Rakaah. The Musallies should not read Surah Fatiha in these last 2 Rakaah but remain silent as much as the time it takes to read Surah Fatiha. The Musalli must then complete his Salaah with Salaams.

NAWAAFIL (NAFIL) SALAAH

Nawaafil Salaah, even though they are not obligatory, help Muslims to praise Almighty Allah and increase Barakah. It also helps us to create a closer bond with our Creator, Almighty Allah. Care should be taken that these Salaah are not performed during the Makrooh times. 

Salaatut Tahajjud 

Salaatut Tahajjud can be read from Isha till Subha Saadiq (dawn). Four to 12 Rakaah can be read. One may read this Nafil Salaah as a 4 or as a 2 Rakaah Salaah with Salaams after every 2 or 4 Rakaah. This Salaah is read after awakening from sleep. 

Salaatul Ishraaq 

Salaatul Ishraaq can be read from about 20 minutes after sunrise till the time of Salaatul Chaast. Two or 4 Rakaah of this Salaah can be read.

There is also great Barakah for one who reads this Salaah. 

Salaatul Chaast 

Salaatul Chaast can be read from the time when the sun has fully risen till the time of Zawaal. About this Salaah, Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has said, "Whosoever reads 12 Rakaah of Salaatul Chaast, Almighty Allah will build for him a place in Jannah." One may read 4 or 12 Rakaah in this Salaah. 

Salaatul Awwabeen 

It is reported in a Hadith that whosoever reads 6 Rakaah of Salaatul Awwabeen after Maghrib without any talk will get Thawaab equal to 12 years of Ibaadah. Salaatul Awwabeen is read from after Maghrib till Isha. One may read from 2 to 20 Rakaah in this Salaah. 

Salaatul Tasbeeh 

It is reported that anyone who reads this Salaah will have all his or her sins wiped out. Salaatul Tasbeeh can be read once every day, or every Friday, or once in a month or once in a life time.

HOW TO READ SALAATUL TASBEEH:

a. Make the intention. b. Read the Thana after the Takbeer-e-Tahreema (first Takbeer). c. Read the third Kalimah 15 times: d. Read Surah Fatiha and any Surah. Then read the third Kalimah 10 times. e. Go into Ruku. Read the Tasbeeh of Ruku and read the third Kalimah 10 times. f. Stand up for the Qaumah and read the third Kalimah 10 times. g. Go into the first Sajdah. After the Tasbeeh of Sajdah read the third Kalimah 10 times. h. Sit in the Jalsa position after the first Sajdah and read the third Kalimah 10 times. i. Go into the second Sajdah and after the Tasbeeh read the third Kalimah 10 times. Note : This would complete the third Kalimah 75 times in each Rakaah. In this manner, when you have read 4 Rakaah, you would have read the third Kalimah 300 times. It is better to read the Salaatul Tasbeeh before the Fard of Zohar, that is, between the Sunnah and Fard of Zohar. However, if it is not possible, then you may read it at any time. 

Salaatul Haajaat 

Salaatul Haajaat is a 2 or a 4 Rakaah Salaah which is read if one desires a special favour or help from Almighty Allah. After this Salaah, one should read as much Durood Shareef as possible and beg Almighty Allah for assistance. After the Surah Fatiha in the first Rakaah, one should read the Ayaatul Kursi 3 times. In the second, third and fourth Rakaah, one should the 3 Quls (Surah Ahad, Surah Falaq and Surah Naas). If one is reading 2 Rakaah, then the 3 Quls should be read in the second Rakaah. One can read any Du'a.

Salaatul Istikhaarah 

Salaatul Istikhaarah is read when one needs guidance on what action one needs to take in a certain matter. One should read 2 Rakaah Salaah with the intention of Istikhaarah. After completing the Salaah, one should read the following dua. When one comes to the word "Haazal Amr", one should think about the reason he or she is reading this Salaah. After reading this Salaah, one should go to sleep and await for a sign. There should be no talking after the Du'a. It is better to read this Salaah for 3, 7, 9 or 11 nights. If one sees red or black colour in a dream, then it is a sign that one should not do what one intends. If one sees green or white colour, then it is a good sign for one to carry out ones intentions. 

Salaatul Istisqa 

Salaatul Istisqa is a Salaah for rain. The people get dressed in their old clothes and offer 2 Rakaah Salaah with Jamaah outside the town.

After the Salaah, the Imaam reads a Khutbah and then makes a Du'a for rain. Thereafter, the Imaam also changes his shawl inside out with the intention that the weather will change for the best. 

Salaatul Kusoof and Salaatul Khusoof 

Salaatul Kusoof is that Salaah which is read at the time of the eclipse of the sun.

Salaatul Khusoof is read at the time of the eclipse of the moon. In Salaatul Kusoof 2 Rakaah are read. The Imaam reads softly. After the Salaah, a long dua is read lasting till the moment the eclipse is over. In Salaatul Khusoof the 2 Rakaah of Salaah are read individually by each person. Each person reads the Salaah aloud. Thereafter, a Du'a is read. 

Tahiyatul Masjid Salaah 

This special Salaah consist of 2 Rakaah Sunnah which is read by a person on entering a Masjid. It should be read before one sits in the Masjid. 

Tahiyatul Wudu Salaah

These are 2 Rakaah of Salaah which is read by a person after Wudu. 

SAJDAAH TILAAWAH

1. There are certain Ayah (Verses) of the Holy Quran, for which it becomes Waajib upon a person to make Sajdah. This rule applies for both the reader and the listener. However, if there is no one listening, then it is only Waajib upon the reader. 2. When reading any Sajdah Tilaawah verse, one should read the Takbeer, "Allahu Akbar", and go into Sajdah. Only one Sajdah is made and the Takbeer is read in the Sajdah. 3. It is Makrooh to delay making the Sajdah Tilaawah. 4. Most of the Holy Qurans have the word "Sajdah" written in the margin. This enables the reader to identify the Ayaat-e-Sajdah. 5. It is also Makrooh to skip a Sajdah verse. In fact, there is much more Thawaab in reading it.

6. If a person is sitting and reads many Sajdah Ayaah, then the person is required to make only one Sajdah and not for each verse. 7. The fourteen verses (14) of the Holy Quran by which it becomes Waajib for one to make Sajdah Tilaawah are:

a. Surah Araaf: verse 206 b. Surah Raad : verse 15 c. Surah Nahl : verse 50 d. Surah Bani Israeel : verse 109 e. Surah Mariam : verse 58 f. Surah Hajj : verse 18 g. Surah Furqaan : verse 60 h. Surah Naml : verse 26 i. Surah Sajdah : verse 15 j. Surah Saad : verse 25 k. Surah Haa Meem : verse 38 l. Surah Najm : verse 62 m. Surah Inshiqaaq : verse 21 n. Surah Alaq : verse 19

QADA SALAAH

1. Qada Salaah is Salaah that is made after the appointed time of that Salaah has passed. 2. It is a great sin to intentionally delay reading Salaah from its actual time. 3. Qada Salaah should be made as soon as possible. 4. There is no Qada for the Sunnah or Nafil Salaah. 5. If a person misses his Salaah during a journey, then his Qada will also become a Qasr Salaah if he is making the Qada of Zohar, Asar or Isha Salaah. 6. Qada has to be made for all Waajib and Fard Salaah. 7. Females, who have missed their Salaah due to Haiz and Nifaas, may not perform the Qada of their missed Salaah. 8. If a person has missed many Salaah, then he or she may perform the Qada of these Salaah according to the order he or she has chosen. One should also mention before ones Salaah what Qada he or she is about to read. 9. If the Qada of that day's Fajar Salaah is read before Zawaal, then it is better for the person to also read the Sunnah of the Fajar. 

MASBOOQ

1. If the Masbooq misses one Rakaah of any Salaah then he must not make Salaam with the Imaam but stand up just after the Imaam's second Salaam. He should then read the Thana, Ta'ooz, Tasmiyah, Surah Fatiha and another Sura, and then complete the Salaah as normal. 

2. If the Masbooq misses 2 Rakaah of Fajar, Zohar, Asar, or Isha Salaah, then he must stand up and read the Thana, Ta'ooz, Tasmiyah, Surah Fatiha and another Surah for the first Rakaah. He must then go into Sajdah and after the second Sajdah immediately come up for the second Rakaah. He must read Surah Fatiha followed by another Surah and then complete the Salaah as normal. 

3. If the Masbooq misses 3 Rakaah of Zohar, Asar or Isha Salaah, then he must stand up and read Thana, Ta'ooz, Tasmiyah, Surah Fatiha and another Surah. He should then sit in Qoudah after the Sajdah and read Tashahhud. Then, he should

stand up for his second Rakaah and read Surah Fatiha and another Surah. After completing the Sajdah, he should stand up for the third Rakaah and read only Surah Fatiha and complete the Salaah as normal. 

4. If the Masbooq misses 2 Rakaah of Maghrib then he must stand up and read Thana, Ta'ooz, Tasmiya, Surah Fatiha another Surah and after the 2 Sajdah, he should sit and complete the Tashahhud. He should then rise for the second Rakaah, read Surah Fatiha followed by another Surah and then complete the Salaah as normal.

THE DAYS OF EID

Eid-ul-Fitr: Eid-ul-Fitr occurs on the 1st of Shawaal. It is a day of joy for those who have kept Fast during the Blessed Month of Ramadaan.

Eid-ul-Adha: Eid-ul-Adha occurs on the 10th Zil-Hajj. It is a day when Qurbaani is performed by all those who can afford it. Qurbaani is done to honour the Sunnah of Sayyiduna Nabi Ebrahim (alaihis salaam) and Sayyiduna Nabi Isma'il (alaihis salaam). On this day Almighty Allah commanded Sayyiduna Nabi Ebrahim (alaihis salaam) to sacrifice his son, Sayyiduna Nabi Isma'il (alaihis salaam).

The Sunnah Actions on the Day of Eid

1. One should wake up early. 2. One should eat something before Eid Salaah on the day of Eid-ul-Fitr. 3. It is Mustahab for those who are sacrificing an animal not to eat anything on the morning of Eid-ul-Adha till they sacrifice the animal and partake of the meat of the sacrificed animal. 4. One should make Ghusal, wear new clothes and use Itr before going for Eid Salaah.

5. One should give "Sadqa-e-Fitr" or charity before the Eid Salaah or a few days earlier. 6. One should show happiness and give charity in abundance. 7. One should try and be as early as possible in the Masjid or Eid Gah (open ground for performing Eid Salaah). 8. One should read the Takbeer softly while going to the Masjid or Eid Gah on the day of Eid-ul-Fitr. 9. The Takbeer should be read loudly on the day of Eid-ul-Adha. 10. One should partake of the Qurbaani meat on Eid-ul-Adha. 11. It is preferable that one uses different routes in travelling to and from the Masjid or Eid Gah.

The Time of Eid Salaah

1. The time of Eid Salaah begins just after sunrise and continues up to Zawaal. 2. No Nafil Salaah should be read before the Eid Salaah. 3. No Azaan or Iqaamah is given for Eid Salaah.

Method of Performing the Eid Salaah

1. Eid Salaah is Waajib. Both Eid Salaah consists of 2 Rakaah with Jamaah. 2. Make the Niyyah (intention) of reading 2 Rakaah behind the Imaam with 6 extra Takbeers. Refer to Hifz Syllabus. 3. Read the first Takbeer (Allahu Akbar) with the Imaam and fold your hands as in

ordinary Salaah. Then read Thana. 4. The Imaam will then read two more Takbeers. For both these Takbeers, raise the hands and leave them at the side. 5. The Imaam will then read the third Takbeer. Raise the hands and fold them. 6. The Imaam will then read Surah Fatiha and a Surah, and complete the first Rakaah. 7. In the second rakaah, the Imaam will read the Surah Fatiha and a Surah. He will then read 3 extra Takbeers. At each Takbeer you will raise the hands and leave them at the side. After the fourth Takbeer, you must go into Ruku. 8. The rest of the Salaah follows.

The Eid Khutbah

1. The Khutbah of both the Eids is read after the Eid Salaah. 2. The Khutbah is Sunnah and it is Waajib to listen to them. 3. The Khutbah, which has two parts, is delivered by the Imaam. 4. There is a short break between the Khutbah. 5. During Khutbah, all talking or reading is forbidden.

The Difference Between Eid and Jummah Salaah

1. Jummah Salaah is Fard, while Eid Salaah is Waajib. 2. In Jummah, Khutbah is read before the Salaah, while in Eid, Khutbah is read after the Salaah. 3. Jummah Salaah has no extra Takbeers, while Eid Salaah has six extra Takbeers. 4. Jummah Salaah has Azaan and Iqaamah, while Eid Salaah has no Azaan and Iqaamah. 5. Jummah Salaah is performed after midday, while Eid Salaah is read before midday.

SAUM BASICS

The Benefits of Saum 

1.Saum or Fasting is a great Blessing given to us by Almighty Allah. 2. Saum is the fourth pillar of Islam. 3. Saum helps us not only to keep away from food and drink but also helps us to develop the qualities of self-control. This is one of the main objectives of Fasting. 4. By being "hungry" throughout the entire day, we are able to understand the plight of the poor and hungry and be more sympathetic towards them. 5. Saum helps build in us "Taqwa" or piety, a quality that makes us have Fear for Almighty Allah. 6. When we Fast we avoid speaking lies, speaking bad about others, laughing at others, keeping bad intentions and thoughts in our hearts, avoid being miserly, and keeps us in check with all the bad elements of our character. 7. The Month of Ramadaan is a spiritual training ground for the Muslim community. 8. Fasting helps us to build up a good character so that Almighty Allah is pleased with us and will reward us. 9. Fasting also has numerous medical benefits. 10. During the Blessed Month of Ramadaan, a Muslim has the chance of seeking Almighty Allah's great Mercy in the special night of "Laylatul Qadr" or the Night of Power. 11. The Taraweeh Salaah, which is performed after the Isha Salaah, helps to

increases Islamic Brotherhood and the sense of true Ibaadah. 

The Position of Saum 

Almighty Allah states in the Holy Quran: "O You who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, so that you may learn self-restraint." (2:183) 

1. Fasting in the Month of Ramadaan is Fard upon every Muslim male and female, who are Muqeems and are physically fit. 2. Fasting not only means to stay away from all food and drink, but also from all sinful activities from dawn till sunset. 3. It is necessary to make the Niyyah of Fasting before Fasting. The Niyyah can be said with words or made in one's heart. 4. If a person forgets to make the Niyyah at the time of keeping Fast, then he or she should make the Niyyah before Zawaal. 5. It is also a great Sunnah to make the Sehri in the morning. 

Types of Fast 

1. FARD - This is to Fast in the Month of Ramadaan. 2. WAAJIB - To keep Fast for the fulfilment of a vow or oath. 3. SUNNAH - To keep Fast during the 9th and 10th of Muharram, the 9th of Zil-Hajj, and the 13th, 14th and 15th of every Islamic month. 4. MUSTAHAB - To fast during any 6 days of Shawaal, the 15th of Shabaan, and to fast every Monday and Thursday. 5. MAKROOH - For a wife to keep Nafil Fast without the permission of her husband. 6. HARAAM - To keep Fast during both the Eids, and the 11th, 12th and 13th of Zil-Hajj. 

Persons Excused from Fasting 

1. A Traveller 2. A very sick person. 3. A pregnant woman. 4. A women who is breast-feeding her child. 5. Women who have their monthly sickness or who have just given birth. 

Sunnah acts during fasting and in the Month of Ramadaan 

1. To partake of Sehri before the Subha Saadiq (break of dawn). 2. To make Sehri at the last part of the Subha Saadiq. 3. To break Fast immediately after sunset. 4. To perform Taraweeh Salaah at night. 5. To increase the recitation of the Holy Quran. 6. To observe I'tikaaf (Seclusion) during the last 10 days of Ramadaan.

Makrooh acts during Fasting 

1. To chew gum, rubber, plastic or other substances. 2. To taste food. If a woman fears that her husband will not be satisfied with her cooking, then she may taste the food making sure that nothing goes down her throat.

3. To collect saliva in one's mouth with the intention of swallowing a mouthful so that one is able to quench one's thirst.

4. To delay Fard Ghusal till after Sehri without any excuse. 5. To complain of hunger and thirst. 6. To use bad languages, fight, tell lies, and do all sorts of bad things. These are also very sinful acts even when a person is not Fasting.

Qaza Saum 

Fasting breaks if a person has done one or more of the following acts. The person will have to keep the Fast again as a Qaza Fast. What are the acts that break the fast? 1. To let water down the throat while fasting. 2. To vomit intentionally. 3. To eat or drink in error and to continue to eat or drink when one realizes that one is fasting. 4. To prolong the Sehri after the Subha Saadiq. 5. To open Fast before the actual time of Iftaar. 6. To put oil (or any liquid), which reaches the stomach, in the ear or nostril. 

Kaffarah 

If a person deliberately or intentionally breaks his or her Fast by eating or drinking, then he or she must observe Kaffarah. This means that he or she must pay penalty for the fast that has been broken. How can this be done? 1. One has to fast continuously for 60 days. 2. One can feed 60 people two proper meals. 3. One can feed one poor person 2 proper meals per day for 60 days. 4. One can give the poor 1 kg and 700 g of wheat or its value in cash or kind per person to 60 poor people. 

Fidya 

Any person who cannot fast because of old age or some serious illness, for which there is no cure, should give Fidya for every Fast that they have missed. "Fidya" is also a type of penalty for missing a Fast. The amount that should be given as Fidya is as follows : 1 One kg and 700 g of wheat or its value. 2 Two meals or its value. Any one of these two should be given to a poor person. Please note that the amounts stated above is per Fast. So if a person has missed 30 Fasts, then any one of the above provision that a person wishes to give, should be multiplied by 30! 

SAUM ( A Few short Articles)

ITS MEANING AND IMPLICATION

Prior to the creation of man, it was envisaged by the Angels that mischief making and rebellion would be part and parcel of man's nature. Very remarkably, the Supreme Creator Allah did not rebut this cry of the Angels, but instead only answered with the caution of, "Certainly, I know what you do not know."

Thus, history testifies that Messengers of Allah (alaihimus salaam) have been sent to every nation upon the face of the earth, and this is also confirmed in the Glorious Quran, the purpose of which is for the physical, moral and spiritual enlightment of man. One of the tenets of the final Scripture, the Holy Quran, and a Command of Almighty Allah is "Fasting" - an institution which is generally accepted as a means of subjugation of man's baser self, and helping him to be more moral and earning

spiritual advancement.

The Divine decree of Fasting is a universal enjoyment. The Encyclopedia Britannica says: "It would be difficult to name any religious system in which it (fasting) is wholly unrecognised." The Bible tells us that the Prophet Isa (alaihis salaam) and Prophet Musa (alaihis salaam) fasted for full 40 days. Gautham Budda fasted until he was actually reduced to skin and bones, as can be ascertained from his statues. And for a surety, all spiritual luminaries cannot omit this indispensable essential pillar for the physical, moral and spiritual purification of their respective adherents.

Why is it, that mankind must undergo this gruelling task of Fasting? The Holy Quran furnishes this reason: "That you may guard against evil." (2: 183) This is the special beauty of the Divine Command - it plainly spells the most significant importance of the Ramadaan fast. Evil, as we see today, circumscribes the very foundation of man's character and the society where he lives.

Today's rational, scientific and modern man is living in a world that is seething with indescribable crimes and rampant acts of unrighteousness. Various man-formulated deterrents and laws which have been enacted to conquer evils, have absolutely failed. A proof of this lies in the numerous courts of laws that conduct cases of diverse crimes and injustices every day; and also the cells of prisons are clear signs that man-made laws have had very little effect or no effect for the curbing of sins and other evils.

Today, we notice that evils such as gambling, prostitution, alcohol, and a host of others have been legitimised by certain Governments. Yet there is a hue and cry at the consequences of these and many other evils which are made legally permissible. Since it is now indisputable that man-orientated cure for evils are ineffective and impotent, it thus necessitates the intervention of the Divine hand. Fasting now plays the role as the firmest reign for the control of the widespread, sin-plagued humanity.

Man and animal share the same physical characteristics and physique. But since animals are not gifted with the faculties of speech, reason, understanding, choice, etc. man emerges as the higher creation. In fact, man is Allah's Khalifa (representative) on earth. When man becomes oblivious of his higher objective, when he is indifferent to the Commandments of Allah and his duties as a Muslim, he is likened to an animal. He confines his energies and aspirations within the boundaries of his life, and ponders not on the life hereafter.

Like the physical animal, his object is just to live for this material world. Eating, drinking, sleeping, multiplying, etc. become the "be all" and "end all" of his life, too. What difference is there now between the animal and the "modern," "rational" and "intellectual" man? It is this animal in man that has to be subjugated before man can reveal his true identity.

Our studies of animals would show that they can only be tamed when deprived of food, drink and sensual desires for a limited period of time. You can confirm this from a zoologist. So is it with man: depriving him of these intrinsic daily requirements for well over 12 hours daily for an entire month, may undoubtedly bring about a spiritual transformation within, when his animal desires are tamed and this ultimately result in his magnetic affiliation with the Divine Being.

Almost every man, with the exception of Prophets and spiritual luminaries, have the tint of the animal characteristics within him. But many, with Allah's Help, do control it. The desire to amass more and more wealth (lawfully or unlawfully), injuring our

fellow human beings, and a host of other vices which we are lured to, display the animal instinct within humans.

The Holy Quran says: "Look at him who takes his desires for his god" - a practical Divine observation of man's character. As can be seen, the object of Fasting is to help us become masters of our passions and materialistic cravings, and becoming alive to the need of others, instead of us being slaves to them. We must aspire and work to become that "Mutaqqi" (pious through Allah-consciousness) - with whom Allah is pleased with. This goal can only be achieved if we fully comprehend the true implications of our fasting during the month of Ramadaan.

RAMADAAN

O peopIe, there comes upon you a great month, a most blessed month, in which lies a night greater in worth than one thousand months. Allah has made compulsory Fasting in this month and has decreed wakefulness at night (i.e. Taraweeh) Sunnah. Whosoever tries drawing nearer to Allah by performing any Nafl (optional) deed in this month, for him shall be such reward as if he performed a Fardh in any other time of the year. And whosoever performs a Fardh, for him shall be the reward of seventy Fardh in any other time of the year. This is indeed the month of patience, and the reward for true patience is Jannah; it is the month of sympathy with one's fellowmen; it is the month wherein believer's Rizq (provision) is increased.

The month of Ramadhaan, the month of blessings has come to you wherein Allah turns towards you and sends down to you this special Mercy, forgives your faults, accepts prayers, appreciates your competition for the greatest good and boasts to the Angels about you. So show to Allah your righteousness; for verily, the most pitiable and unfortunate one is he who is deprived of Allah's Mercy in this month. (Tabraani)

The Doors of Jannah are opened up on the first night of Ramadhaan. Not a single door is closed until the last night of Ramadaan. (Bayhaqi)

And in this month, four things you should endeavor to perform in great number; two of which shall be to please your Lord, while the other two shall be those without which you cannot make do. Those which shall be to please your Lord, are that you should in great quantitv recite the Kalimah Tayyibah, "Laa ilaaha illallah", and make much "Istighfaar" (beg Allah's forgiveness). And as for those, without which you cannot make do, you should beg Allah for entry into Jannah and seek refuge with Him from the Fire of Jahannam. (Ibne Khuzaymah)

When the month of Ramadaan comes, the Doors of Jannah are thrown open and the Doors of Jahannam are closed and the Shayateen are chained up. (Bukhari, Muslim)

Suhoor (Sehri)

1. Verily, Allah and His angels send mercy upon those who eat Suhoor. (Tabraani)2. Eat Suhoor because in Suhoor lies Barakah. (Mishkaat)

Days of Ramadaan

1. Ther fishes in the sea seek forgiveness for those fasting until they break their fast. Allah decorates His Jannah every day and then says, "The time is near when My pious servants shall cast aside the great trials and come to me." (Ahmad)2. During each day and night of Ramadaan, Allah sets free great number of souls

from Hell. And for every Muslim, during each day and night, at least one Du?a is certainly accepted. (Bazzaaz)

Sawm (Fasting)

1. Sawm (Fasting) is a shield, as long as he (the fasting person) does not tear it up. (Nisaai)Note: Fasting is a protection from Shaytaan or from Allah's punishment in the Hereafter. One who indulges in sins whilst fasting such as lies, backbiting, etc., they become the cause of the fast becoming wasted.2. All good deeds are for the one who renders them, but Fasting is exclusively for me (Allah). (Bukhari)3. Fasting is a shield and a powerful fortress. (Ahmad, Bayhaqi)4. I swear by that Being in Whose possession is the life of Muhammad! The odour of the mouth of a fasting person is sweeter to Allah than the fragrance of musk. (Bukhari)5. Fasting is exclusively for Allah, the reward of it (being limitless) no one knows besides Allah. (Tabraani)

Iftaar

1. Whosoever gives something to a fasting person in order to break the fast, for him there shall be forgiveness for his sins and emancipation from the Fire of Jahannam; and for him (the one who gives) shall be the same reward as for him (whom he fed), without that person?s (the one who was fed) reward being diminished in the least. (Ibne Khuzayrnah, Bayhaqi)2. Whoever gave a person, who fasted, water to drink, Allah shall give him a drink from my Fountain where after he shall never again feel thirsty until he enters Jannah. (Ibne Khuzaymah)3. The fasting person experiences two (occasions) of delight: at the time of Iftaar and at the time he will meet his Rabb. (Bukhari)4. Not a single prayer made by a fasting person at the time of breaking fast is rejected. (lbne Maajah)

Nights of Ramadaan

1. Whoever stands in prayer and worship in (the nights of) Ramadaan, with lmaan and with sincere hope of gaining reward, his previous sins are forgiven. (Bukhari, Muslim)2. Allah Ta?ala has ordained Fasting in Ramadaan compulsory, I have decreed (by the Command of Allah) wakefulness at night (that is Taraweeh, etc.) Sunnah. Whoever in the state of Imaan and with the hope of gaining reward fasts in Ramadaan and stays awake at night (Taraweeh), emerges from sin, purified as the day when his mother gave birth to him. (Nisaai)3. For every Salaat performed during the nights of Ramadaan (that is Taraweeh, etc.) Allah Ta?ala records one and a half thousand goods deeds for every Sajdah (prostration). (Bayhaqi)

I'tikaaf

1. It is related by Abu Hurayrah (radi Allahu anhu) Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) observed I'tikaaf for ten days every year in the month of Ramadaan. In the year he passed away, he observed it for twenty days. (Bukhari)2. Those who observe (I 'tikaaf) are prevented from all sins and they obtain reward as

if they are rendering all good deeds. (Mishkaat)3. He who observes the ten days of I'tikaaf during Ramadaan will obtain the reward of two Hajj and two Umrah. (Bayhaqi)

Last Night of Ramadaan

Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said, "On the last night of Ramadaan, the fasting Muslims are forgiven". The Sahabah (radi Allahu anhum) inquired: "O Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), is that the Night of Power?" Nabi (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) replied, "No! But it is only right that a servant should be given his reward having completed his duty." (Ahmad)

NOTE:

Muslim must scan the skies for the sighting of the moon for Ramadaan and for Eid and convey the Shari? method of Shahaadat to the Ulama.

FASTING MERITS, RULES AND SUPPLICATIONMERITS:

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says: "O believers! Fastings have been made obligatory upon you as were made before you, so that you may become pious." (2:183) Thus the fastings were obligatory on Muslims and it became the third pillar of Islam. Regarding merits of fastings there are so many Hadiths have been narrated, some of them are being referred below:

Sayyiduna Abu Huraira (radi Allahu anhu) said that our Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said that he who keeps fast with belief and hope of getting blessings then his forthcoming sins will be forgiven and he who believes and prays in the nights of Ramadaan with the intention of getting blessings then his forthcoming sins will be forgiven and he who believes and prays with the intention of getting blessings in the night of Qadr, his forthcoming sins will be forgiven. (Bukhari & Muslim)

Sayyiduna Suhail bin Sa'ad (radi Allahu anhu) said that our Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said that in Heaven there is a door which is called "RAYAN". On the Day of Judgment (Qiyamah) only the people who observed fastings will enter into Heaven through this door. Nobody other than those mentioned will enter. A call will be made, where are those who used to keep fasts? Then the people of fasting will stand up and enter into Heaven and then the door would be closed and none could be able to enter through this. (Muslim)

Sayyiduna Abu Huraira (radi Allahu anhu) said that I have heard our Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) saying that Allah says: All the deeds other than fasts are for the men himself but fastings is for Me and I only will give reward for that. I swear by Who has Power on my Soul that the smell from the mouth of a fasting person is better than the smell of "Musk" scent. (Muslim)

RULES:

1. For every day's fasting, intention must be done before the time of "Zawaal" or (Nisf un Nahar Sharayee).2. Intention for fasting need not be pronounced, only intention by heart is sufficient but it is better to pronounce the words. (Bahare Shari?at, part 5)3. Eating by mistake does not break the fasting, putting oil in your hair or putting black powder in the eyes and entering a fly in the mouth or smoke or dust of flour do not break the fasting. Gargling the mouth and throwing out the water then

swallowing the wetness in the mouth and entering water in the ear does not break the fasting. If you cough and swallow the spit of any quantity does not break the fasting. Nightfall and backbiting also does not break the fast although backbiting is a great sin. Similarly, if you are fasting but did not took bath after sex then it will not break the fast although to remain without bath (Ghusl) for whole day is Haraam. If your lips become wet with your saliva and are then swallowed, Fast will not break. (Bahare Shari?at, part 5)4. If you were gargling, the water went inside without intention or the water went up inside the nose or putting oil in the ear or putting drops inside the nose breaks the fasting if you remember that you are fasting.5. Intentionally mouthful of vomiting breaks the fast if you remember that you are fasting, if it is less than mouthful vomiting then fasting did not break.6. If you vomitted unintentionally but if it is less than a mouthful, then fasting did not break but if it is mouthful and you swallowed it back, then it did break the fasting.7. If tears entered in the mouth and if they are more than one or two drops and you felt the salty taste in the whole mouth then it did break the fasting.8. If you spit on your hand and then swallow your spit or swallow somebody's spit then it did break the fasting.9. Drinking water or eating while sleeping breaks the fasting.10. Kissing, touching and having sex with your wife leadinq to discharqe breaks the fasts.11. Normally eating, drinking, smoking, chewing tobacco or beetle-leaves breaks the fasts if you remember that you are observing fast. (Bahare Shari?at, part 5)12. To break the Ramadaan fasts intentionally is punishable by a fine. For breaking every Ramadaan fast intentionally - as a fine one has to keep 60 days continuous fasting. If it is not possible, then pay for the release of one slave for each fast. If this is not possible, then provide food for 60 poor men twice daily. (Qanoon-e-Shari?at, part 1)13. Lying, backbiting, ugly words, dirty talking and giving trouble to others makes fasting Makrooh (less blessings). Collecting saliva in your mouth and then swallowing it also makes fasting Makrooh. Delay in Sehri (eating before daybreak) is permissible but delaying up to the point of daybreak is Makrooh. (Bahare Shari?at, part 5)14. Cleaning your teeth with Miswak (a stick to dean the teeth) in fasting is not Makrooh. (Bahare Shari?at, part 5)

WHO IS EXEMPTED FROM FASTING:

In the following conditions, not to keep fasts is permitted, but one will have to keep them after Ramadaan month:1. If one is on a journey, and if that journey is at least 92 Kilometers (57.5 miles) long.2. Pregnant and breast-feeding women when she is concerned about the health of herself or the baby.3. If a person is sick and he is concerned that the disease will get worst or will take longer time to cure or a healthy person, if he is sure to get sick.4. Ladies having child birth and menstruation period. (Bahare Shari?at, part 5)5. A person is so old who is not capable of fasting nor he can hope of repeating the missed fasting then he should pay "Fidya" a fixed amount per day. That is to feed a poor twice for each fasting or give Sadaqa equivalent to Sadaqa Fitr. (Bahare Shari?at, part 5)

SUPPLICATIONS:

1. Du?a for Fasting: Allahumma asumu ghadal laka faghfirli ma qadamtu wama akhartu. Or Wabi saumi ghadin nawatu min Shahri Ramadaan.

2. Du?a when breaking Fast: Allahumma laka sumtu wa bika aamantu wa alaika tawakkaltu wa alaa rizqika aftartu fataqabal minni ma qaddamtu wama akhartu.3. Supplication for Taraweeh: Sub Hana Zil Mulki Wal Malakoot. Sub Hana Zil Eizzati Wal Azmati Wal Haibati Wal Qudrati Wal Kibreeyai Wal Jabaroot. Sub Hanal Malikil Hayyillazi La Yanamu Wala Yamoot Subbuhun Quddusun Rabbuna Wa Rabbul Malaaikati War?rooh. Allahumma Ajirna Minannari Ya Mujeeru Ya Mujeeru Ya Mujeer.

LAYLATUL QADR ? THE NIGHT OF POWER

The month of Ramadan enjoys a intrinsic superiority over all other months of the year. It has a night better than thousand months according to the Qur'an: "Undoubtedly, we sent it down in the blessed and valuable night. And what you know, what the blessed night is? The blessed and valuable night is better than a thousand months. Therein descend angels and Jibrail (the Spirit) by the command of their Lord for every affair. That is all peace till the rising of the dawn." (Surah Qadr)

About the reason of revelation of this verse, it has been narrated by our Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) that one day he talked to his Companions about a person of a past nation and informed them that he spent a thousand months praying the whole night and doing Jihad all day. So his companions felt very sorry that due to their short life they cannot get that status. Then Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala revealed this verse (Surah) and informed Muslims that though you have not been given long lives yet by praying on the Night of Power you can get the rewards more than a person praying one thousand months.

The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) also described several times the significant values of this night: Sayyiduna Anas bin Maalik (radi Allahu anhu) reported that the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said that this month (Ramadaan) has approached to you, a night of this month is better than thousand months. One who failed to get the blessings of this is failed to get any blessings. And no one is failed but he who is truly disappointed. Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala promissed forgiveness to the praying persons in this blessed night: Abu Huraira (radi Allahu anhu) reported that our Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said that one who prays in this night with Imaan and with the intention of getting blessings will be forgiven. Anas bin Maalik (radi Allahu anhu) reported that our Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said that at the Night of Power, Jibrael (alaihis salaam) came down with a group of angels and prayed for mercy for the bondsman who is engaged in the worship of Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala sitting or standing.

How to find out Laylatul Qadr:

It is narrated by Sayyiduna Aisha (radi Allahu anha) that the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "Seek the Night of Power in the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan". This Hadith shows that the Night of Power falls on one of the odd nights of last ten days that is 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th and 29 th night. But we have some other indications from the companions of the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and Muhaddhiseen, that this should be the night of 27th of Ramadaan.Due to this it seems a general consensus among the Islamic Scholars towards the 27th night. However, it is better to keep vigil during all odd nights of last ten days to get the blessings of this precious night. The Du?a to be read during this night is "Allahumma innaka afuwuh tuhibbul afwa fa?fu anni". This Du?as was taught to Sayyiduna Ayesha Siddiqa (radi Allahu anha) by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) himself.

HOW SHOULD A MUSLIM OBSERVE EID-UL-FITR

Eid-ul-Fitr refers to the festival after completion of fasting in the Month of Ramadaan. This auspicious occasion is celebrated on the 1st of Shawaal, which is the 10th month of the Islamic calendar. The festival of Eid-ul-Fitr is a manner of showing appreciation and gratitude to Almighty Allah for all that He has bestowed upon us.

Muslims are very glad to receive the Eid following a month of fasting to perform a sacred duty prescribed upon them. In this month, Muslims entered a state of purity and spiritual worship to seek the mercy and forgiveness of Almighty Allah.

People had during the month of Ramadaan exercised an unusual level of restraint and self-control to defy temptations and achieve victory over shaitaan. The spirit of social unity, sympathy, love and true affections prevailed throughout the entire month of Ramadaan. Muslims helped the poor in distress, showed love to the unfortunate, stayed up at night for prayers and fasted during the day. They hope that all the spiritual strength which they gained through prayer, contemplation and fasting will assist them to lead a good life and enter Jannah. Where do we go from here? What should now be our objective in life?

The benefits from this one month of fasting, should also be apparent in the other eleven months of the year. In other words, Muslims should show kindness, modesty, patience in times of difficulties and gratefulness when gaining the blessings of Almighty Allah. Not only should we show all these good qualities, but we should also abstain from all evils, such as jealousy, hatred, etc. Those Muslims who exercise self-control and patience are the pious ones that gain Allah's favour. We should try our best to build good relations with fellow Muslims. We should show gratitude, pity and love. In doing so, the Muslim world would be an embodiment of virtue and good morals, and stand out as an example to people of other faiths. It is a necessity in the trouble-filled world that we live in, for people to exercise self-restraint, patience and a deep sense of human understanding in order to alleviate the human misery that we see today and bring about the greatly needed peace that we desire. Last but not least, we should try to rejuvenate the enthusiasm to serve humanity.

Now that the month of Ramadaan is over we should understand that while our spiritual well-being is constantly under threat, a return to a life of greater devotion and prayer is the only foundation which the human race can build on for the future. In Islam lies total salvation, despite the state of Muslims today, to those wishing to take advantage of it as a remedy for the ills of the world.

On the morning of Eid-ul-Fitr, Muslims throughout the world perform the traditional Eid Salaah, which is Waajib upon all Muslims. It is not permissible to miss the Eid prayer without any valid reason. With the exception of performing the Eid Prayer, there are also various actions which are desirable on the day of Eid. These are:

1. to trim the hair and nails,2. to perform the Ghusl (Ceremonial Bath),3. to use the Miswaak (special toothbrush),4. to wear (if affordable) or good clean clothing, to wear a ring (for men - a silver ring with one stone), and to use Ittar (Perfume),5. to perform the Fajr Salaah (morning prayer) in the nearest Mosque of your area,6. to leave early to perform the Eid Salaah,7. to give the Sadqa-e-Fitr (Eid-ul-Fitr Charity) before the Eid Salaah,8. to go by foot (if possible) for the Eid Salaah, and return home in another route,9. to eat a few dates (preferably an odd number) or something sweet before going for Eid Salaah, and

10. to show happiness and gratification, to give charity in abundance, to walk modestly towards the Eid gathering, and to11. wish and congratulate one another after the Eid Prayer.

As much as Eid is a time of rejoicing, it is also a time of giving and sharing with those less fortunate than yourself. The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) would always be the first to congratulate the poor and the orphans. We should also try to be as kind as possible on this day to our fellow Muslims. The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has stated, "Smiling in the face of your brother is Charity." 

I’TIKAAF

1. I'tikaaf means to seclude oneself in the Masjid for the Ibaadah of Almighty Allah. 2. The person who performs the I'tikaaf is called the "Mu'takif." 3. It is Sunnat-e-Mu'akkidah to observe I'tikaaf during the last 10 days of Ramadaan. 4. I'tikaaf begins from sunset of the 20th of Ramadaan and ends with the sighting of the Eid moon. 5. Women should observe I'tikaaf in their homes at the place where they normally read their Salaah. 6. Some of the many benefits that are to be gained by performing the I'tikaaf are: 6.1 A person in I'tikaaf keeps away from worldly affairs and many sinful deeds. 6.2 A person is able to devote all his or her time in Ibaadah and, thereby, increase in Taqwa (piety). 7. The Muslim who performs the I'tikaaf must be sane, mature and in a state of Tahaarah (cleanliness). 8. I'tikaaf should be performed in a Masjid where the 5 daily Salaah is performed with Jamaah. 9. While in I'tikaaf, a person should occupy himself in Zikr, Nafil Salaah, recitation of the Holy Quran, learning and teaching Islamic knowledge. 10. The person must not indulge in worldly affairs or talks. 11. Leaving the Masjid without any valid reason will break the I'tikaaf.                                                                                                               12. One of the main purposes of the I'tikaaf is also to seek the Night of Qadr (Power). 

LAYLATUL QADR – THE NIGHT OF POWER

1. Laylatul Qadr is to be found amongst the last 5 odd nights of Ramadaan, that is, from the 21st till the 29th night. 2. However, it is generally regarded to be the 27th night of the Month of Ramadaan. 3. It is on this night that the Holy Quran was revealed to Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) while he was in the Cave of Hira. 4. One should spend the entire night or a large part of the night in Ibaadah as there is abundance of Thawaab to be gained. 5. Almighty Allah states that the Night of Qadr is better than a thousand months. 6. On this night, Almighty Allah orders Sayyiduna Jibra'el (alaihis salaam) and His Angels to travel throughout the world to make dua for those who are busy in Ibaadah.

7. This blessing of Laylatul Qadr lasts till the rising of dawn. 8. We must also remember that Laylatul Qadr can be any of the nights of the 21th, 23th, 25th, 27th or the 29th of Ramadaan. These nights should also be spent in Ibaadah.

SADAQAH-E-FITR

1. Sadaqah-e-Fitr is compulsory upon all Muslim men and women who are "Saahib-e-Nisaab". This means that it is compulsory for those that have a little extra money which is kept aside as savings. 2. It is Sunnah to give the Sadaqah-e-Fitr before the Eid-ul-Fitr Salaah or a few days earlier. 3. An adult should give Sadaqah-e-Fitr for himself as well as for his children who are not able to afford the Sadaqah-e-Fitr. 4. Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has said: "A person's fast remains hanging in between the Heavens and Earth, till the time the Sadaqah-e-Fitr is given." 5. The amount of Sadaqah-e-Fitr is equal to the value of 1kg 700 g of wheat. 6. This amount can also be given in cash or kind. The amount is about R20.00 (Calculated in the year 2003. Find out the new amount each year!) 7. If the woman of the house is Saahib-e-Nisaab, then it is Waajib upon her to give Sadaqah-e-Fitr herself. In this case, it is not Waajib upon the man or the husband to give Sadqa for his wife or female family member. 

ZAKAAH – BASICS

1. Sadaqah-e-Fitr is compulsory upon all Muslim men and women who are "Saahib-e-Nisaab". This means that it is compulsory for those that have a little extra money which is kept aside as savings. 2. It is Sunnah to give the Sadaqah-e-Fitr before the Eid-ul-Fitr Salaah or a few days earlier. 3. An adult should give Sadaqah-e-Fitr for himself as well as for his children who are not able to afford the Sadaqah-e-Fitr. 4. Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has said: "A person's fast remains hanging in between the Heavens and Earth, till the time the Sadaqah-e-Fitr is given." 5. The amount of Sadaqah-e-Fitr is equal to the value of 1kg 700 g of wheat. 6. This amount can also be given in cash or kind. The amount is about R20.00 (Calculated in the year 2003. Find out the new amount each year!) 7. If the woman of the house is Saahib-e-Nisaab, then it is Waajib upon her to give Sadaqah-e-Fitr herself. In this case, it is not Waajib upon the man or the husband to give Sadqa for his wife or female family member. 

ZAKAAH ( A Few short Articles )

VERSES FROM THE HOLY QURAN Zakaah is one of the five pillars of Islam. It has been mentioned, along with daily Prayers (Salaah), seventy times in the Qur'an. Allah's Word commanding "... and establlsh regular Salaah and give regular Zakaah" are referred to in many parts of the Qur'an. From this we can conclude that after Salaah, Zakaah is the most important act in Islam.

The following are some verses from the Holy Qur'an and some Ahadith showing the importance and benefits of Zakaah.

1. "The parable of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is that of a grain of corn. It grows seven ears and each ear has hundred grains. Allah increases manifold to whom He pleases." (al-Baqarah:261)2. "By no means shall you attain righteousness unless you give (freely) of that which you love; and Allah knows well whatever you give". (Aal-i-lmran: 92)

3. "And nothing do you spend in the least (in His cause) but He replaces it, for He is the Best of those who grant Sustenance." (Sabaa: 39)4. "And let not those who covetously withhold of the gifts, which Allah has given them of His Grace, think that it is good for them. No, it will be worse for them. Soon shall the things, which they covetously withheld, be tied to their necks like a twisted collar, on the Day of Judgment. To Allah belongs the heritage of the heavens and the earth. And Allah knows all that you do." (Aal-i-lmran: 180)5. "Of their good take alms, so that you might purify and sanctify them ?" (Tauba: 103)

Ahadith-e-Mubarakah:

1. Sayyiduna Umar Farooq (radi Allahu anhu) narrated that our beloved Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said that the loss of wealth that one suffers on land or sea is due to not paying Zakaah. (Tibraani)2. Abu Hurairah (radi Allahu anhu) narrated that our beloved Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said that three persons would enter the Hell first. One of them, is the person who does not give Allah's rightful share (Zakaah & Sadaqah) from his wealth. (Ibn-e-Khazema & Habaan)3. Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah (radi Allahu anhu) narrated that our beloved Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said that wealth does not decrease when you give Sadaqah; and Allah increases the esteem of the one who forgives other people's mistakes; and Allah raises the status of the one who practices humbleness for His sake. (Bukhari & Muslim)4. Sayyiduna Abu Ayyub (radi Allahu anhu) narrated that a man asked the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) about a deed that would take him to Heaven. Our beloved Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) replied: Pray to Allah. Do not commit Shirk (do not hold any partners with Him), keep performing Salaah, give Zakaah, and be kind to everyone. (Riyad-us-Saliheen)5. Sayyiduna Abdullah bin Masu'd (radi Allahu anhu) has said that we were commanded to perform Salaah and give Zakaah, and that Salah is not accepted of the person who does not give Zakaah despite eligibility. (Tibraani)6. Bazzaz narrated from Sayyiduna Alqamah (radi Allahu anhu) reporting that our beloved Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has said that the completion of one's Islam is dependent upon giving away Zakaah from one's wealth.

It is stated in the Hadith that by giving Zakaah the following benefits are derived:

1. Gain the pleasure of Allah,2. Increase in wealth and protection from losses,3. Allah's forgiveness and blessings,4. Protection from the wrath of Allah and from a bad death,5. A shelter on the Day of Judgment,6. Security from seventy misfortunes.

Just as Salaah is the most important act of worship, which has to be performed bodily, so is Zakaah the main act of worship which has to be performed monetarily. Those who fulfill this duty have been promised abundant reward in this world and Hereafter. Whoever evades Zakaah has been sternly warned in the Qur'an and Hadith of the consequences.

Linguistically, Zakaah has two meanings: purification and growth. Technically, it means to purify one's possession of wealth by distributing a prescribed amount to the poor, the indigent, the slaves or captives, and the wayfarer.

There are many major benefits of giving Zakaah:

1. It reminds Muslims of the fact that whatever wealth they may possess is due to the blessings of Allah and as such it is to be spent according to His Commands.2. Zakaah functions as a social security for all. Those who have enough money today pay for what they have. If they need money tomorrow they will get what is necessary to help them live decently.3. The Zakaah payer pays his dues to Allah as an act of worship, a tof submission and an acknowledgment of gratitude. The receiver of Zakaah receives it as a grant from Allah out of His bounty, a favour for which he is thankful to Allah.4. Economically, Zakaah is the best check against hoarding. Those who do not invest their wealth but prefer to save or hoard it would see their wealth dwindling year after year at the rate of the payable Zakaah. This helps increase production and stimulates supply because it is a redistribution of income that enhances the demand by putting more real purchasing power in the hands of poor.

Zakaah is obligatory upon a person if:

1. He or she is an adult, sane, free and Muslim.2. He/she must possess wealth in excess of specified minimum (Nisaab) excluding his or her personal needs (clothing, household furniture, utensils, cars etc. are termed article of personal needs).3. It should be possessed for a complete lunar year.4. It should be of productive nature from which one can derive profit or benefit such as merchandise for business, gold, silver, livestock etc.

The amount of wealth, which makes one liable for Zakaah, is called Nisaab. The Nisaab as fixed by Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is as follows:

1. Gold: 87.48 (grams) or 7.5 Tolas2. Silver: 612.36 (grams) or 52.5 Tolas3. Nisaab of cash, stock or bonds, other cash assets is the equivalent amount of Gold or Silver.4. Nisaab is calculated by adding up the cash value of all the assets such as gold, silver, currency, etc. and if it is equal to or in excess of the minimum Nisaab as specified in the above table, the Zakaah is due at the rate of 2.5%.5. The payment of Zakast is compulsory on the excess wealth or effects which is equal to or exceeds the value of Nisaab, and which is possessed for a full Islamic year. If such wealth decreases during the course of the year and increases again to the value of Nisaab before the end of the year, the Zakaah then must be calculated on the full amount that is possessed at the end of the year.

TYPES OF WEALTH ON WHICH ZAKAAH ARE IMPOSED:

1. Gold and silver, in any form2. Cash, bank notes, stocks, bonds etc.3. Merchandise for business, equal to the value of Nisaab4. Livestock5. On income derived from rental business

CALCULATION OF ZAKAAH

1. To calculate Zakaah on jewelry, etc. one must first determine the gold or silver content and then calculate the Zakaah according to current market price.2. If the Gold possessed is less than 87.48 grams or if silver possessed is less then

612.36 grams, but the value of both combined is equal to or exceeds the Nisaab of either Gold or Silver, the Zakaah will be due.3. In the event of an article not being of pure gold or pure silver, but containing a mixture of other metals and the gold or silver content is more than the other metal, it will be regarded as gold or silver and Zakaah will be due. But in the case where other metal/s is of greater quantity than either gold or silver, Zakaah will not be due on this article.4. For stocks (shares held in a company), Zakaah is calculated based upon the current market value. As machinery, land, fixtures and fittings, furniture, buildings etc. are exempt from Zakaah, one is allowed to subtract these from the total asset. This could be obtained from annual reports. For example, if one has shares worth R1000 and machinery, land etc., are worth 5% of the total asset, then deduct R50 for these assets, afterwards deduct the liabilities of the company proportionately to the percentage of shares held. Zakaah must be calculated on the balance.

DISTRIBUTION OF ZAKAAH

1. Zakaah should be given as soon as possible after it becomes due.2. All of the Zakaah can be given to one person or to several persons.3. A poor man cannot be paid for his work from Zakaah nor can Zakaah be given in payment of services, except to the people appointed by the Islamic government to collect Zakaah.4. Zakaah will only be valid if the recipient is made the owner of that amount. If, for example, a few needy persons are fed a meal from Zakaah money, then Zakaah will not be fulfilled as they were not made owners of the food.5. Zakaah cannot be given for the construction of Masjid, Madrasah, Hospital, a well, a bridge or any other public amenity.6. Zakaah can be paid in kind from the same merchandise on which it is due, or alternatively, it could be paid in cash.

TYPES OF WEALTH ON WHICH ZAKAAH ARE NOT IMPOSED:

1. On any metals other than gold or silver.2. Fixtures and fittings of a shop, car, trucks or any delivery vehicle etc., which is used in running business.3. Diamonds, pearls, other precious or semi-precious stones, which are for personal use.4. There is no Zakaah on personal residence, household furniture, pots and pan, personal clothing, whether they are in use or not.5. There is no Zakaah on a person whose liabilities exceeds or equals his assets. Some Mortgage in this country is not to be counted as personal liability for the Zakaah purpose.

RECIPIENTS OF ZAKAAH:

The recipients of Zakaah, according to Qur'an are as follows: "Alms are for the poor and the needy, and those employed to administer (the funds); for those whose hearts have been (recently) reconciled (to truth); for those in bondage and in debt; and for the wayfarer: (Thus is it) ordained by Allah, and Allah is full of Knowledge and Wisdom." (Qur'an 9:60)

1. FUQARA: people who are poor and who possess more than their basic needs but do not possess wealth equal to Nisaab.2. MASAKEEN: people who are destitute and extremely needy to the extent they are forced to beg for their daily food rations.

3. AL-AMILEEN: people appointed by an Islamic Government to collect Zakaah.4. MU-ALLAFATU-QULUB: persons who have recently accepted Islam and are in need of basic necessities who would benefit from encouragement by Muslims which would help strengthen their faith.5. AR-RIQAAB: slaves who are permitted to work for remuneration and have an agreement from their masters to purchase their freedom on payment of fixed amounts.6. AL-GHAARIMEEN: persons who have a debt and do not possess any other wealth or goods with which they could repay that which they owe. It is conditional that this debt was not created for any un-Islamic purpose.7. FI-SABILILLAH: persons who have to carry out an obligatory deed which has become obligatory on them and subsequently (due to loss of wealth) are unable to complete that obligation.8. IBN-US-SABEEL: persons who are travelers and during the course of their journey do not possess basic necessities, though they are well to do at home. They could be given Zakaah in order to fulfill travel needs to return home.

PERSONS WHO CANNOT BE GIVEN ZAKAAH:

1. Zakaah cannot be given to the descendants of Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam);2. Zakaah cannot be given to parents and grandparents. In the same manner one's children and grandchildren cannot be given Zakaah.3. A husband and wife cannot give Zakaah to each other.4. Zakaah contributions cannot be given to such institutions or organizations who do not give the rightful recipients possession of Zakaah, but instead use Zakaah funds for constructions, investment or salaries.

THE PUNISHMENT FOR NOT GIVING ZAKAAH:

Allah says in the Qur'an: "And there are those who hoard gold and silver and do not spend it in the way of Allah, announce to them a most grievous penalty (when) on the Day of Judgment heat will be produced out of that wealth in the fire of Hell. Then with it they will be branded on their forehead and their flanks and backs. (It will be said to them) This is the treasure which you hoarded for yourselves, taste then the treasure that you have been hoarding."

AQEEQAH

1. The word "Aqeeqah" in Arabic means, "the hair on the head of a new born child." 2. In Islamic Shariah, ( Islamic Law), Aqeeqah means to sacrifice an animal on the seventh day after the birth of a child. 3. Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has instructed us to give Azaan in the right ear and Iqaamah in the left ear of a child that is newly born. 4. It is also Mustahab to name the child on the seventh day and to shave the child's hair. 5. The Aqeeqah for a boy is 2 sheep or goats and for a girl, is one sheep or goat. 6. After the child's hair has been shaved, silver or its value in money should be given in charity. 7. The meat of the Qurbaani can be eaten by all members of the family, friends and relatives. 8. If one is not able to make Aqeeqah on the 7th day, then one is allowed to make Aqeeqah when one is able to afford it.

FESTIVALS OF ISLAM

1. Youmul Aashurah: 10th of Muharram. 2. Laylatul Me'raj: 27th night of Rajab. 3. Laylatul Baraat: 15th night of Shabaan. 4. Laylatul Qadr: 27th night of Ramadaan. 5. Birth of Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam): 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal. 6. Urs Shareef of Sultaanul Awliya, Shaikh Sayyid Abdul Qaader Jilaani (radi Allahu anhu): 11th of Rabi-us-Saani and the 11th of every month. 7. Urs Shareef of Mujaddid-e-Deen-o-Millat, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Al Qaderi (radi Allahu anhu): 25th Safar 8. Eid-ul-Adha: 10th of Zil Hajj 9. Eid-ul-Fitr: 1st of Shawaal 10. Urs Shareef of the Sahaba Ikraam and the Four Imaams Arba'in (radi Allahu anhumul anjma'in). 11. Urs Shareef of Shaikh Sayed Khawja Mo'inuddeen Chisty Ajmeri (radi Allahu anhu): 6th Rajab

and other dates which your Imam will bring to your attention.

HAJJ

The Importance of Hajj

1. Hajj or Pilgrimage to Makkatul Mukarramah is the fifth pillar of Islam. 2. It is a duty of a Muslim, who can afford it, to visit the Holy Kaaba in Makkatul Mukarramah at least once in a lifetime. 3. Hajj became Fard on the Muslims in 9 A.H. 4. Hajj is actually a gathering for Muslims from all parts of the world to meet and strengthen the ties of Islamic Brotherhood. 5. By putting on the Ihraam, a Muslim is made to think about death and leaving this world with only a simple piece of cloth that he or she has to wear in the Qabar. 6. By making Hajj, a Muslim sacrifices his money and pleasure for the Sake of Almighty Allah.

Upon whom is Hajj Fard?

Hajj is Fard upon : 1. An adult Muslim male or female. 2. One who is free from all debts. 3. One who is fit in body and in mind. 4. One who has enough money to cover all costs of the journey and be able to support one's family while one is away. 5. One who is confident of travelling safely. Note: Hajj is not Fard upon those women who do not have a "Mahram" to accompany them. By "Mahram" is meant those people to whom it is Haraam for the woman to marry.

The Faraa'id (Fard) of Hajj

1. The person must be in Ihraam. 2. One has to make Tawaaf around the Holy Kaaba after the Wuqoof at Arafaat and Muzdalifa. 3. One has to be present at Arafaat on the 9th of Zil-Hajj.

Waajibaats of Hajj

A person is required to: 1. Make Sa'ee between Saffa and Marwa after the Tawaaf. 2. Stay in Muzdalifa for one night in the open space. 3. Throw stones at the three Jamraats on the 10th, 11th, 12th of Zil-Hajj. There is great Thawaab if one also pelts (stones) the Jamraats on the 13th Zil-Hajj. 4. Shave or trim the hair after the Qurbaani. 5. Perform the Last Tawaaf (Tawaaf-e-Widaa), just before leaving Makkatul Mukarramah.

What are the Miqaats

Miqaats are those places beyond which it is not permissable to cross without putting on the Ihraam for all those who intend making the Hajj or Umrah. There are 5 Miqaats: 1. Zul Hulaifa or Bir-e-Ali : For those coming from the side of Madinatul Munawwarah. 2. Zaatul Iraq : For those coming from Iraq. 3. Jahfa or Rabigh : For those coming from Syria. 4. Qauran : For those coming from Najd. 5. Yalam lam : For those coming from India, Pakistan and Yemen (also South Africa).

The Five days of Hajj

1ST DAY - 8th Zil-Hajj : The people go to Mina from Makkatul Mukarramah in the morning after wearing the Ihraam. 2ND DAY - 9th Zil-Hajj : The people arrive in Arafaat in the morning and continue their Ibaadah. They also read their Zohar and Asar Salaah and leave for Muzdalifa just before sunset. 3RD DAY - 10th Zil-Hajj : People stay in Muzdalifa for the night and read their Maghrib and Isha Salaah together. They continue their Ibaadah the whole night. Just after Fajar Salaah, they leave for Mina. They then make Qurbaani and stone the Jamratul Uqbah. After Qurbaani, they trim or shave their hair and remove their Ihraam for ordinary clothes. Tawaaf-e-Ziyaarah is then made and Sa'ee between Saffa and Marwa. They now return to Mina. 4TH DAY - 11th Zil-Hajj : The three Jamraats are stoned. 5TH DAY - 12th Zil-Hajj : The three Jamraats are stoned again. Before leaving Makkatul Mukarramah, the Haaji will have to make the Farewell Tawaaf (Tawaaf-e-Widaa).

NOTE : Muslims are also required to visit the Blessed Grave of Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) in Madinatul Munawwarah as well as other sacred places. This can be done before or after the Hajj. Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has said: "One who visits my grave, is like one who has visited me in my lifetime." "One who visits my grave, my Shafa'at becomes Waajib for him."

TALBIA

1. The Talbia is read by the person throughout the Hajj while in the state of Ihraam. The Talbia is: "Here I am, O Lord, here I am. Here I am, you have no partner, here I am. Surely, Praise, Blessings and the Kingdom are for You. You have no partner." 2. The Talbia stops immediately after pelting the Jamratul Uqbah (Big Shaytaan) on the 10th of Zil-Hajj.

What is Umrah

1. Umrah, unlike Hajj, can be made anytime during the year, except during the 8th till the 12th of Zil-Hajj. 2. A persons presence in Arafaat is not Fard during the Umrah. 3. No Qurbaani is required in Umrah. 4. In Umrah, Sa'ee between Saffa and Marwa and the Tawaaf of the Holy Kaaba is Fard.

Actions not Permitted during Hajj

1. To kill or harm animals (including insects). 2. To use perfumes. 3. To break or uproot plants. 4. To hunt. 5. To marry or take part in a wedding. 6. To do anything dishonest or be arrogant. 7. To carry arms. 8. To cover the head (males). 9. To cover the face (females). 10. To wear sewn clothes. 11. To wear shoes covering the ankles. 12. To cut hair or clip nails.

Ayyaam-e-Tashreeq

1. "Ayyaam-e-Tashreeq" or "The Days of Praise" are those 5 days from the 9th till the 13th of Zil-Hajj. 2. Ayyaam-e-Tashreeq begins from the Fajar Salaah of the 9th and ends at the Asar Salaah of the 13th of Zil-Hajj. 3. On these days, it is Waajib upon all Muslims to read the Takbeer-e-Tashreeq aloud once after every Fard Salaah. Females are required to read softly. 4. It is Sunnah to read this Takbeer 3 times. 5. The words of the Takbeer are: "Allah is Great. Allah is Great. There is none worthy of worship except Allah and Allah is Great. Allah is Great and to Allah belongs all Praise."

HAJJ,UMRAH & ZIARAH

HAJJ

The Hajj Pilgrimage, is one of the Pillars and fundamentals of Islam. It is the completion of surrender and the day of perfection of the religion of Islam. It was on this day that Almighty Allah revealed the following message to the Ummah of His beloved Prophet, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam): "Today, I have perfected your religion for you and completed my grace upon you and approved Islam as your religion."We must understand that the basis of all actions is intention and intention without doubt bears fruit if there is sincerity, and Hajj, which is an integral part of Islam, will therefore require those who perform it to have sincerity.

When the person intends undertaking Hajj, he severs all ties with his family and home. This is a reminder to him also of the journey he will have to undertake for the Hereafter.

As for provisions, the intending pilgrim must ensure that they have been acquired in the Halaal (permissable) manner. If a person desires to take a lot for the journey, then let him remember the journey to the Hereafter which is longer and more difficult and that the best provision for that journey will be Taqwa (Piety).

As for transport, when the pilgrim acquires transport he should give thanks to the Almighty Creator and at the same time remember the transport that will carry him the grave and the next world, namely his Kaffan (Shroud).As for leaving home, the intending pilgrim should know that he is now bound for the House of Allah. He is on a journey unlike any other. He should bear in mind where he is heading and whom he intends to visit. He should also have hope that his Hajj will be accepted, not because of the difficulties faced, but because of the trust that he has in His Creator.

When wearing the Ihraam, the pilgrim is aware that he has heard the summons of Almighty Allah. He should possess fear and hope when considering the acceptance of his Hajj. This fear should be the fear of Almighty Allah and hope in His Mercy.

As for touching the Hajre Aswad (Black Stone), the pilgrim should believe that he is pledging his loyalty to Almighty Allah and that he will obey the Commands of the Supreme Being. Make firm your promise and do not be like those who promise today and change their minds tomorrow.

When the pilgrim clings to the Khilaaf (Cloth) of the Holy Kaaba, seek forgiveness and beg for Allah's Mercy. Even the running between Saffa and Marwa must signify a slave who is running to and from the Court of a Mighty King not knowing whether he has been accepted or rejected. As for standing at Arafaat, look at the crowds following their Imaams (Leaders) and recall the sight of the Yaumal Hashr (Day of Gathering).

After this, plead for Almighty Allah's Mercy. When you throw stones at the Shaitaan, your purpose should be obedience to your Creator. The idea is to drive Shaitaan away from you.

Such should be the various duties of the pilgrim at all stages of the Hajj. When all acts are completed, your heart should be filled with concern and hope, for you do not know whether your Hajj has been accepted or rejected. Yet after completion you realise that your inner and outer self has been filled with enthusiasm and love, and you have a genuine feeling of making Ibaadah, then remember that you have been placed among the chosen ones!

This is without doubt the culmination of a great festival - a festival where Muslims of all colour and language congregate on one massive plain to celebrate the praise of their Creator, Almighty Allah. Hajj provides an opportunity to unite Muslims of the world and it also offers to Muslims an occasion to exchange views on their mutual problems, to iron out their differences, to discuss common opinions, to exchange gifts as well as goodwill, and to take back to their respective homelands memorable feelings of the Muslim brotherhood, of course, in addition to the innumerable blessings of Almighty Allah and the new found purity of their body and soul.

The Five days of Hajj

1ST DAY - 8th Zil-Hajj : The people go to Mina from Makkatul Mukarramah in the morning after wearing the Ihraam.2ND DAY - 9th Zil-Hajj : The people arrive at Arafaat in the morning and continue their Ibaadah. They also read their Zohar and Asar Salaah and leave for Muzdalifa just before sunset.3RD DAY - 10th Zil-Hajj : People stay in Muzdalifa for the night and read their Maghrib and Isha Salaah together. They continue their Ibaadah the whole night. Just after Fajar Salaah, they leave for Mina. They then make Qurbaani and stone the Jamratul Uqbah. After Qurbaani, they trim or shave their hair and remove their Ihraam for ordinary clothes. Tawaaf-e-Ziyaarah is then made and Sa'ee between Saffa and Marwa. They now return to Mina.4TH DAY - 11th Zil-Hajj : The three Jamraats are stoned.5TH DAY - 12th Zil-Hajj : The three Jamraats are stoned again. Before leaving Makkatul Mukarramah, the Haaji will have to make the Farewell Tawaaf (Tawaaf-e-Widaa).

A visit to Madinatul Munawwarah is also necessary. This can be done before or after the Hajj. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has said: "One who visits my grave, is like one who has visited me in my lifetime." AND "One who visits my grave, my Shafa'at becomes Waajib for him."

What is Ayyaam-e-Tashreeq

"Ayyaam-e-Tashreeq" or "The Days of Praise" are the 5 days from the 9th till the 13th of Zil-Hajj. It begins from the Fajar Salaah of the 9th and ends at the Asar Salaah of the 13th of Zil-Hajj. On these days, it is Waajib upon all Muslims to read the Takbeer-e-Tashreeq aloud once after every Fard Salaah. Females are required to read softly. It is Sunnah to read this Takbeer 3 times. The words of the Takbeer are: "Allah is Great. Allah is Great. There is none worthy of worship except Allah and Allah is Great. Allah is Great and to Allah belongs all Praise."

UMRAH: IMPORTANT MASAA'IL

The meaning of "Umrah" is "to visit." The accomplishment of Umrah at least once in a lifetime is Sunnat-e-Mu'akkadah. The Umrah performed during the auspicious month of Ramadaan supercedes that Umrah completed in other days. Bukhari Shareef states that Umrah in Ramadaan is equal to Hajj.

THE MASAA'ILS OF UMRAH CAN BE BRIEFLY SUMMARISED AS:-

The wearing of Ihraam before entering the Miqat boundaryThe performance of two Rakaahs Sunnatul IhraamThe recitation of Niyyah and TalbiyahThe advancement towards Makkatul Mukarramah while constantly reading the TalbiyahThe performance of Tawaaf with Idh'tibaa and RamalThe performance of two Rakaah Waajib Salaah after Tawaaf behind Maqaam-e-EbrahimAdvancement to the Multazam to make Du'a and drink water from the Zam Zam wellPerformance of Sa'ee between Saffa and MarwaShaving or trimming the hair of the head.

THE FARAA'IDH OF UMRAH:

Ihraam

Four circuits of Tawaaf

WAAJIBAAT OF UMRAH:

Completion of all seven circuitsSa'eeShaving/trimming of the hair.N.B. The rest are either Sunnat or Adaab.

SEQUENCE OF PERFORMING UMRAH:

Adoption of Ihraam and performance of two Rakaah with Niyyah of UmrahTawaafDu'a at MultazamPerformance of two Rakaah Salaah at Maqaam-e-EbrahimDrinking Zam Zam waterPerforming Sa'ee between Saffa and MarwaTwo Rakaah SalaahShaving/Trimming of the hair.

VISITING THE GRAVE OF THE PROPHET:

Visiting the grave is part of the Sunnah and is both excellent and desirable. Hazrat Ibn Umar (radi Allahu anhu) said that the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said, "My intercession is assured for all who visit me." (at-Tabarni) Hazrat Anas bin Malik (radi Allahu anhu) said that the Messenger of Allah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said, "Anyone who visits me in Madina for the sake of Allah is near to me and I will intercede for him on the Day of Rising." (Al-Bayhaqi).

Imam Malik (radi Allahu anhu) disliked anyone saying "the tawaf of the visit," or "we visited the grave of the Prophet," because people normally use that for visits between themselves, and he did not like to put the Prophet on the same level as other people. He preferred a specific statement like "We greeted the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)." He did not dislike people saying, "We visited the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)." (Ash-Shifa)

ZIARAH - PRESENTING ONESELF THE BLESSED COURT OF THE HOLY PROPHET (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM) IN MADINATUL MUNAWWARAH

To present oneself (Haaziri) at the blessed court of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is close to Waajib (compulsory). Certain people, disguising themselves as "friends", try to convince you to stay away from the Rauza-e-Anwar of Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). It is said that it is not important to go there. Beware! Never listen to their comments and do not return with the stain of being deprived of visiting Madinatul Munawwarah.

When going to Madinatul Munawwarah, make special intention of visiting Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Imam Ibn Ilhaam states that when going to Madinatul Munawwarah do not even make the intention of visiting the Masjid, but make intention of visiting the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). You should drown yourself in the recitation of Durood and Zikr throughout your entire journey. When the Haram of Madinatul Munawwarah is visible, then it is better to travel on foot. Walk towards it crying, with your head bowed, eyes lowered, and, if possible, bare feet. When the Green Dome or Ghumbade Anwar is in sight, then recite Durood

and Salaams in abundance. On reaching the Blessed City, drown yourself in the thought of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

Before making Haaziri you should clear the heart of all other thoughts that are disturbing and avoid unnecessary conversation. Make wudhu (using Miswaak) and Ghusal, if possible, is better. Preferably wear white clothing and new clothes are better. Use fragrance and Surma. The best of fragrance is Musk. Now, with total love and reverence, turn towards the Roza-e-Aqdas. If you cannot cry, make a sorrowful face and force the heart to weep. Beg in the court of Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). At the entrance of the Masjid, send Durood and Salaams and then wait for a little while as if you are waiting for permission from Sarkaar-e-Madina (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Say "Bismillah" and enter with the right foot. Do so with utmost respect and reverence. When visiting the Rauza-e-Anwar, believe in your heart that the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is physically alive and present just as he was before passing from the world. His demise and the demise of all the other Ambiya (alaihimus salaam) is only a split second, to fulfil the promise of Allah. Their passing away was for them just to be hidden from the eyes of the general public. Imam Muhammad ibn Haaj Makki (radi Allahu anhu) in "Madkhal", and Imam Ahmad Qastalaani (radi Allahu anhu) in "Muwaahibul Laduniyah" state, "There is no difference in the life and demise of the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) as he is seeing his Ummah, and he is aware of them, and he is aware of their intentions. He understands the thoughts of the hearts and all these are before the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). In this way, that there is nothing actually hidden in it."

Now at the height of respect, bow your head, lower your gaze, and shiver in the fear of Allah. Perspire in the shame of your sins, hoping and having faith in the mercy and blessing of the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Present yourself at the feet of the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and hope that the blessed sight of the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is on you. This is sufficient for you in both the worlds. Now like the heart, the face is also towards the Jaali Mubaarak of Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) which is the resting place of the beloved of Allah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Stand with total respect and honour. With a soft voice, low gaze, ashamed, not with a harsh or loud voice (since to speak aloud in this court is disrespect and cause of destruction) and neither being too soft since it is against Sunnah (even though the Prophet is even aware of the condition of your heart, just as it was evident from the sayings of the A'imma mentioned above), say the following: "As Salaamu Alaika Ayuhan Nabiyu wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barkatuhu, As Salaamu Alaika Ya Rasolallah. As Salaamu Alaika Ya, Khairi Khalqillah. Asalaamu Alaika Ya Shafi Al Muznabeen, As Salaamu Alaika Wa Ala Aalika wa Ashaabika Wa Um'matika Ajmaeen."

Ask for Shafa'at (Intercession) from Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) for your parents, Ustaads, Peer-o-Murshid, respected ones, friends, relatives and all Muslims. Continuously say, "As Alukash Shafa'ata Ya Rasoolallah." If someone asked you to convey their Salaams, then do so. May Almighty Allah accept the Ziyaarat of all those of visit the Rauza-e-Anwar of Huzoor-e-Akram (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Ameen.

QURBAANI

2.1 Important Points about Qurbaani

1. Qurbaani can be performed from the 10th of Zil-Hajj after Eid Salaah till the Asar Salaah of the 12th of Zil-Hajj. 2. Qurbaani is made to observe the Sunnah of Sayyiduna Nabi Ebrahim (alaihis

salaam). 3. It is Waajib upon all those who are able to afford making Qurbaani on the 10th of Zil-Hajj. 4. Qurbaani is not Waajib upon a traveller, but if he or she wants to do so they may perform the Qurbaani. 5. Qurbaani may be made for one's children or any deceased. 6. The Qurbaani meat may be divided into three parts: 6.1 One part to the poor and needy. 6.2 One part to friends and relatives. 6.3 One part for one's own household. 7. If the person cannot afford to share in the above manner, then he or she may use all the meat in their own household. 8. Qurbaani meat cannot be given to non-Muslims who are living in a country that is ruled by Kuffar (like South Africa). If this was a Muslim-ruled country, then we would be allowed to give Qurbaani meat to the Kuffar. 9. The skin of the animals can be: 9.1 Used by oneself. 9.2 Given to the poor. 9.3 Sold and the money given to the poor.

Animals that can be Sacrificed

1. Goats and sheep that must be at least one year old. Even if they are 6 month old, they must be fat and healthy. 2. Cattle, buffalo or bull must be at least 2 years old. 3. Camels must be at least 5 years old. NOTE : Cattle, buffalo, bull and camel meat can be divided into 7 shares. Seven people may purchase one animal and share in the meat. The meat must be equally divided amongst the 7 people.

Physical Condition of the Animal

Animals should be healthy and free from the following defects: 1. Lameness which does not allow the animal to stand on its 4 feet. 2. Blindness, even in one eye. 3. Horns broken from the roots. 4. Ears that are cut more than one third of their actual size. 5. Tails that are cut more than one third of their actual size. 6. Aged animals. 7. Sickness 8. So thin that the bones are visible.

Method of Slaughter

1. Slaughter the animal with a very sharp knife. 2. Do not slaughter an animal in front of another animal. 3. Four veins should be cleanly cut - the throat, windpipe and the 2 jugular veins. Even if 3 are cut the meat of the animal would still be considered Halaal. 4. It is Makrooh to cause pain and suffering to the animal unnecessarily. 5. The animal should be placed on its side on the ground with its head towards the Qiblah. 6. It is better that the person who is making Qurbaani should slaughter the animal. However, if this is not possible, then he or she should at least stand near the sacrifice.

7. Before slaughtering, read the prescribed Dua.8. The person should then slaughter the animal by reading the prescribed Dua.

DEATH AND JANAZAH

When a Muslim is in the last stages of his or her life, those present should read Surah Yaseen, Surah Ra'ad and the Kalimah Shahaadah in order to ease the pangs of death for the person. We must also urge, and not force, the person to read the Kalimah. When the person has passed away, the family members should immediately organize Ghusal and Burial affairs. (Ask your Imam/teacher to explain or demonstrate to you how the Ghusal of a Mayyit is performed). 

Salaatul Janazah 

Salaatul Janazah is actually a Du'a that is made on behalf of the dead person. Salaatul Janazah is Fard upon all Muslims who have knowledge of the Janazah or funeral. While the Imaam reads out the Takbeer aloud, we should repeat them silently. 

Fard of Salaatul Janazah 

There are 2 Fards in Salaatul Janazah: 1. To stand and perform Salaah (Qiyaam). 2. To read all the 4 Takbeers. Note: If one does not know what Du'as to read after each Takbeer, one can still join the Janazah Salaah and read the Takbeers softly. 

The Manner of making Salaatul Janazah 

1. The body of the Mayyit should be placed with its right side facing the Qiblah. 2. The Imaam should stand in line with the chest of the Mayyit when leading the Salaah. This also means that the head of the Mayyit will be to the right of the Imaam.

3. It is also Mustahab to make an odd number of Sufoof (Safs) or rows. However ,if there are a large number of people, then there is no need to follow this rule. 4. After the Safs are straight, everyone should make the Niyyah.5. After the first Takbeer, everyone should read the Thana.6. After the second Takbeer, you should read the Durood-e- Ebrahim which is: The same as read in Salaah. 7. After the third Takbeer, A. FOR AN ADULT: (the prescribed Dua)B. FOR A BOY: (the prescribed Dua)C. FOR A GIRL: (the prescribed Dua)8. After the fourth Takbeer, the Imaam will read the Salaam. 9. You should not raise your hands after each Takbeer but repeat the Takbeers silently. 10. After the Salaatul Janazah, it is recommended that you make a Du'a for the Mayyit. 

Late-Comers for the Salaatul Janazah 

It is permissable for a person to make Tayyamum if he fears that he will miss the Janazah Salaah. This rule only applies for Janazah and Eid Salaah. If a person is late and joins the congregation after the Imaam has already read a few Takbeers, then he should join the Imaam for the next Takbeer. After the Salaah, he can read the

Takbeers he missed by merely saying "Allahu Akbar" softly for every Takbeer he missed. He is not permitted to read any Du'a after the Takbeers.

DUROOD SHAREEF

What is Durood Shareef?

To recite the Durood Shareef and send Salaams upon Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is an action that has been commanded by Almighty Allah. Almighty Allah declares in the Holy Quran:

"Allah and His Angels send blessings on the Prophet: O you who believe! Send your blessings on him and salute him will respect." (33:56)

In this verse of the Holy Quran, Almighty Allah and His Malaa'ikah and the Muslims have been mentioned as sending Durood upon Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). So, Durood Shareef is actually "a Du'a in praise of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

There is abundance of Thawaab for one who reads the Durood Shareef. The more Durood Shareef that you read, the more closer you get to Almighty Allah and His beloved Rasool (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

When Almighty Allah sends Durood and Salaams upon Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), He is actually blessing him. When the Malaa'ikah and the Muslims send Durood and Salaams to Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), they are actually showing Almighty Allah their respect for the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

Muslims hope that, through the blessings of the Durood and Salaams, Almighty Allah will forgive them of their sins and increase their status in this world and in the Aakirah. The Malaa'ikah hope that Almighty Allah will increase their status.

How to read the Durood Shareef

1. Always be in a state of cleanliness when you are reciting the Durood Shareef. 2. It is better to sit in the Tashahudd position as you would sit when in Salaah and recite the Durood Shareef with concentration and the respect due to it. 3. One should face the Qiblah of the blessed city of Madinatul Munawwarah. 4. Recite Durood Shareef wherever you are (not in the bathroom or toilet) and during any occasion.

Blessings of Durood Shareef

A few benefits of reciting the Durood Shareef are:

1. Almighty Allah and His Angels (Malaa'ikah) send blessings upon the person who recites the Durood Shareef. 2. If one reads a single Durood Shareef, one gets 10 Thawaabs, 10 of one's sins are forgiven, 10 good deeds are given to that person and one's respect is increased 10 times. 3. Durood Shareef saves a person from Hell (Jahannam) and makes a person enter Heaven (Jannah) with the Martyrs (Shuhadaa).

4. Any Du'a which begins and ends with Durood Shareef is always accepted. 5. The reciter will be in the company of Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) on the day of Qiyaamah. 6. A person will be given good news of his or her place in Jannah long before he or she passes away. 7. A person who reads 100 Duroods will receive 1 000 Thawaabs from Almighty Allah.

8. The Angels begin to love and help a person who reads the Durood Shareef. 9. The Durood Shareef assists a person when he or she dies. 10. A single Durood Shareef is more in weight than the Mountain of Uhud. 11. Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) sees and hears a person who reads the Durood Shareef. 12. A person is saved from the terrible events on the Day of Qiyaamah. 13. The reciter is blessed with Barakah and wealth. 14. The person will not feel thirsty on the Day of Qiyaamah. 15. One who reads 100 Durood Shareefs daily, then 100 of that person's needs are fulfilled. Thirty of this world and seventy of the Hereafter. 16. Reading 100 Durood Shareefs is equal to spending the whole night in Ibaadah. 17. The place where Durood Shareef is read is greatly blessed. 18. The Durood Shareef saves a person from the evils of jealousy, hatred, etc. 19. The house, business or the place where Durood Shareef is read is greatly blessed.

20. Durood Shareef increases one's memory. (Students must make it a habit to recite Durood Shareef before their lessons.) 21. The reciter of Durood Shareef is greatly loved by Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

THINGS THAT ARE HARAAM

The flesh of animals which:

1. Kills other animals with their paws and teeth, such as lions, tigers, cats, dogs, and other animals. 2. Have curved teeth, such as elephants, wildboar, pigs, and other animals. 3. Burrow in the earth such as rats, moles, and others. 4. All Reptiles such as snakes, lizards, crocodiles, and others. 5. The flesh of Halaal animals which: 5.1 Dies by itself. 5.2 Has been strangled to death. 5.3 Has been killed by a fall. 5.4 Has been killed and partly eaten by beasts. 5.5 Has not been slaughtered by a Muslim. 6. The flesh of birds which prey on other birds and small animals, such as eagles, owls, falcons, vultures, and others. 7. The flesh of swine and the blood of any animal. 8. All alcoholic drinks and substances that intoxicates, irrespective of its quantity. 9. All Halaal food which have been gained through Haraam means. 10. Fish that die due to natural causes or pollution.

NATURAL ACTS OF CLEANLINESS

All natural acts of cleanliness have been termed actions of "Fitrah", in other words, actions which is the natural acts of a human.

All Ambiya (Prophets) of Almighty Allah have commanded the people to follow these actions of cleanliness, which are :

The clipping of the moustache: It is Sunnah to trim the moustache and Makrooh to let it grow over the lips.

The keeping of the beard: It is Sunnah to keep a beard which must be one fist size in length. It is also Makrooh Tahreemi to shave off one's beard.

The use of Miswaak: It is Sunnah to use a Miswaak to clean one's mouth. There are many physical and spiritual benefits to be achieved by this.

Cleaning the nose: Since dirt is inhaled every minute, the nostrils gathers dirt. It is necessary to clean the nostrils thoroughly especially while making Wudu. One should pour water into the nostrils with the right hand and clean the inside of the nostril with the little finger and thumb of the left hand.

The trimming of the nails: It is Sunnah to clean and trim the nails. The nails should be trimmed every Friday. One should not bite one's nails. After trimming the nails, they should be buried and not thrown in a dirt bin because they are part of a Muslim's body and should be respected. The approved manner of trimming the nails is to start with the Shahaadah finger of the right hand then the remaining fingers excluding the right thumb. Thereafter, one should start with the small finger of the left hand till the Shahaadah finger and lastly trim the nail of the left thumb and then the right thumb.

The washing of the joints: Dirt gathers at the joints of the body. We should regularly clean areas such as the navel, the joints of the feet and hand and in between the toes and fingers.

The removal of hair under the armpits: One should remove all hair from under the armpits once a week. One should not delay the removal of hair for more than 40 days. The hair that is removed should be buried.

The removal of hair from below the navel: One should remove unwanted hair once a week. This also should not be delayed for more than 40 days.

The hair of the head: Females, young or old, are not allowed to cut their hair. Males are allowed to shave and trim their hair.

Istinja:

1. When entering the toilet, enter with the left foot. 2. When using the toilet, do not face the Qiblah. 3. When washing, use the left hand. 4. Leave the toilet in a clean state by flushing the pan. 5. Do not read or carry any item in the toilet bearing Almighty Allah's Name. 6. Do not relieve yourself in open public places. 7. Do not urinate while standing. 8. Do not speak in the toilet or spit in the pan. 9. When leaving the toilet, leave with the right foot. 10. Take extreme caution when using the high pan.

THE ADAAB OF EATING AND DRINKING

1. Make sure that the food or drink is Halaal. 2. Wash your hands properly first and do not forget to read the "Bismillah" before eating or drinking. 3. If you are eating with others, read the "Bismillah" aloud so that others will also remember to read it. 4. Eat or drink with your right hand. 5. Sit and eat or drink and do not do so in a buffet style where everybody stands. 6. Chew your food well and do not eat or drink in a hurry. 7. Do not blow over your food and drink. 8. Do not over-eat. One part of the stomach should be for food, one part for liquids and one for air. 9. Drink water or other permissible drinks in at least three breaks - not all in one gulp.

10. Do not stare at other peoples food or drink. 11. After eating, wash your hands properly. 12. Do not dish out a lot of food at once and waste.

GOOD CONDUCT

1. Islam teaches us to be clean in thought and deed. 2. Every Muslim must greet one another and show respect. 3. You must be kind and respectful to your parents, friends, teachers, neighbours, elders, servants and those smaller than you. 4. You must show respect for visitors. 5. You must help your parents at home, elders on the street and the poor and needy. 6. You must pray for your parents and teachers. 7. You must try to be a good leader and Muslim at all times. 8. You must set a good example to your Muslim brothers and sisters and towards the non-Muslims. 9. Always try to be honest and truthful. 10. You must treat animals kindly.

ADAAB OF DRESSING

1. Males are not permitted to wear clothes made from silk, while females are allowed to wear silk clothes. 2. Females are not permitted to wear very thin and see-through clothes. 3. Males are forbidden to wear very bright coloured clothes, like red and yellow. 4. Males are not permitted to wear their pants below the ankle. Females must cover their ankles. 5. Females should not wear clothes made for males, and males should not wear clothes made for females. 6. It is Haraam for males to show any part of their body from the navel till the knee. This includes the knees. 7. Both should not wear tight clothes. 8. It is Fard for females to cover their whole body from head to toe. 9. It is un-Islamic for females to show their faces to a stranger. 10. It is Haraam for females to even expose themselves to other females and for males to do the same in front of other males. 11. It is Haraam for Muslims to imitate Kuffar in their dress and habits. 12. It is proper for males and females to dress Islamically.

SHORT SURAHS ( With Commentaries )

Translations of verses from "Kanzul Imaan" by A'la Hazrat Imam Ahmed Raza (alaihir rahmah)

SURAH FATEHA 

1. All Praise is for Almighty Allah, Lord of all the Worlds. 2. The Most Affectionate, the Merciful. 3. Master of the Day of Judgement. 4. We worship You alone, and beg You alone for help. 5. Guide us in the Straight Path. 6. The path of those whom You favoured. 7. Not of those who have earned Your anger and nor of those who have astray. 

Surah Fateha means "The Opening". It is the beautiful opening of the Book of Allah Ta'ala. It is also known as "Umm al-Kitab" (Mother of the Book), "al-Hamd" (the Praise) and "al-Asas" (the Foundation). 

An Angel once told the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) that it is a light that has never been given to any other Prophet before him. It is the main Du'a of the Muslims, and Muslims should recite it in every Rakaah of Salaah. 

This Surah is placed at the beginning of the Holy Quran. It is actually a prayer. Allah Ta'ala is Kind, Merciful, Good to us, and for Him is all our praise. He is our Master and King. We shall stand before Him on the Day of Judgement with our actions, good and bad. 

This Surah teaches us how to speak to Allah Ta'ala. He is the only One we worship and ask for help. We ask Him for help with the Wasila (means of approaching Allah's Court) of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). We ask Allah Ta'ala to guide us both in this world and the next. We ask Allah Ta'ala to keep us on the path of those pious people whom He is pleased with. We ask Him not to make us follow those people with whom He is angry, nor those who mislead us, making us confused and lost. 

The other names of Surah Fateha are: Faatehatul Kitaab (Opening Chapter of the Book); Ummul Quran (Mother of the Quran); Suratul Kanz (Chapter of the Treasure); Kaafiyah (Abundant); Waafiyah (Complete); Shaafiyah (Healing); Shifa (Cure); Noor (Light); etc. 

This Surah was revealed in Makkatul Mukarramah. It contains 7 Ayahs, 27 words and 140 harf (letters). 

SURAH IKHLAAS 

1. Say you: He is Allah, the One. 2. Allah the Independent, Carefree. 3. He does not give birth, He was not born. 4. And nor anyone is equal to Him. 

Surah al-Ikhlas is one of the most important Surahs of the Holy Quran because it tells us about what we should believe about Allah Ta'ala. Al-Ikhlas means "The Purity of Faith". When the Makkans, the Jews and the Christians asked the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) about Allah Ta'ala, he used to answer them with this Surah.

Our Nabi Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) used to recite this Surah often in his Salaah. He also said that by reciting this Surah a Muslim will be in love with Almighty Allah. 

This Surah tells us that Allah Ta'ala is the One and Only. He is not in need of anything. Allah Ta'ala does not depend on anyone but all things depend on Him. He has no son. He has no father. He is so near to us that it is He Who always cares for us. There is no person like Him. Allah resembles none and nobody resembles Him. There is none equal to Almighty Allah. 

The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said that Surah al-Ikhlas is equal to one-third of the Holy Quran, and that we should recite it often.

This Surah was revealed in Makkatul Mukarramah. It has 4 Ayahs, 15 words and 47 letters (harf). 

SURAH KAUSAR 

1. O beloved! Undoubtedly, We have bestowed you abundance of good. 2. Therefore, offer Prayer to your Lord, and do the Sacrifice. 3. Undoubtedly, one who is your enemy, he is cut off from every good. 

Al-Kausar is the name of a fountain in Jannah (Paradise). Almighty Allah has given the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) this fountain. Al-Kausar means "The Abundance". Surah al-Kausar tells us that Almighty Allah gave the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) good things in abundance and excellences to which there are no limit. This Surah tells us about our Nabi Muhammad?s (salllal laahu alaihi wasallam) high status. Some leaders of the Quraish made fun of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) when his young son, Hazrat Qasim (radi Allahu anhu), passed away saying that he no longer had any sons to carry on his name and that he would be forgotten after he passes away. Allah Ta'ala promises with this Surah that the memory of the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) would continue forever and that all those who are his enemies will be forgotten. 

It is true that all our Nabi Muhammad?s (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) enemies have been forgotten. All their riches and sons have been forgotten. Today, millions of Muslims remember our Nabi Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) in all parts of the world. They send blessings on him and his family millions of times each day. The enemies of Islam have been asked many times by Allah Ta?ala to get together and produce one Surah like this smallest Surah Kausar. They could not even produce a small Surah like this or change it. 

This Surah was revealed to our Nabi Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) while he was in Makkatul Mukarramah. It has 3 Ayahs, 10 words and 42 letters (harf).

SURAH NAAS AND SURAH FALAQ

The following last two Suras of the Holy Quran were revealed together. These Surahs were revealed to the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) during a time when his health was slightly affected by witchcraft or black magic.

There was a Jew called Labid who got hold of the Prophet's (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) blessed hair and put a spell on it. The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) became very sick.

After a few days Hazrat Jibra?eel (alaihis salaam) came to our Nabi Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and told him that a Jew had made Jaa'doo (cast a spell) on him and had buried the Jaa'doo items under a stone in a certain well. Our Nabi (sallal laahu alaihi sallam) sent Hazrat Ali (radi allahu anhu) to remove the Jaa'doo items. Hazrat Ali (radi Allahu anhu) went immediately to that well and emptied the water from it. He found the stone and lifted it. Underneath the stone was a bag made of date palm fibres and in it was the blessed hair of our Nabi (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He also found a few teeth of the blessed comb of Nabi Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and a line or a string of a bow on which was tied eleven knots. There was also a puppet made of wax in which there were 11 needles. The Jaa'doo items were brought to our Nabi (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). 

Almighty Allah then revealed these two Surahs together to our Nabi Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Surah Falaq had five Ayahs and Surah Naas had six Ayahs, altogether counting eleven. When our Nabi Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) read all the eleven Ayahs, all the knots were opened one by one. The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was cured.

The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) urged Muslims to recite these two Surahs as often as possible. It will protect us from the evil works of devils, Jinn or magic. It will protect us from hatred and jealousy. When anyone speaks ill about you, when you are feeling sad or unable to concentrate in your Salaah, then you must recite these two Surahs. 

SURAH NAAS 

1. Say you: I come in the refuge of the Lord of all mankind. 2. King of all mankind. 3. God of all mankind. 4. From the evil of him who whispers evil thoughts in the heart and slips away. 5. Those who whisper in the hearts of mankind. 6. Jinn and men. 

An-Naas means "The People". Surah an-Naas teaches us to place our trust in Allah Ta'ala. It teaches us to seek Allah's protection against things that might affect us. We should not place our trust in man. Allah Ta'ala is our King or Ruler. The Surah warns us against the secret whispers of evil inside our hearts. It also warns us about the evil that may come from other men or invisible spirits. As long as we put ourselves in Allah's protection and we trust in Allah Ta'ala, evil will not be able to affect us. 

This Surah was revealed in Madinatul Munawwarah. It has 6 Ayahs, 20 words and 79 letters (harf). 

SURAH FALAQ 

1. Say you: I seek refuge with the Lord of Day break. 2. From the evil of all creatures. 3. And from the evil of the darkening one when it sets. 4. And from the evil of those women who blow in the knots. 5. And from the evil of the jealous when he is jealous of me. 

Surah al-Falaq (The Dawn) teaches us to seek shelter in Allah Ta'ala from every kind of evil of nature. It teaches us to seek Allah's protection from all dark and evil plottings. This Surah also tells us that those who are sincere worshippers of Allah Ta?ala must be careful of the envious people who are the worst of peoples. 

This Surah was revealed in Madinatul Munawwarah. It has 5 Ayahs, 23 words and 74 letters (harf). 

SURAH LAHAB 

1. Perished be the two hands of Abu Lahab and he is already perished. 2. His wealth and what he earned availed him not. 3. Now he enters into a blazing fire. 4. And his wife too; carrier of firewood on her head. 5. There is a rope of palm fibre in her neck. 

This Surah is also called al-Masad (The Palm Leaf). Abu Lahab was the son of Hazrat Abdul Mutallib (radi Allahu anhu). Therefore, he was the Holy Prophet's (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) own uncle, but he was an enemy of Islam. His original name was Abdul Uz'zaa, but he was called Abu Lahab because he was fair in complexion and handsome. 

Abu Lahab and his wife did many terrible things to the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and his Companions throughout their lives. Abu Lahab's wife, Umme Jameel, used to get up very early in the morning to collect thorns to put in front of the Holy Prophet's (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) house. One day she was carrying a bundle of wood on her head. She was tired so she sat down on a rock to take a breath. Allah Ta'ala commanded an Angel to pull the bundle of wood from behind her. The bundle of wood fell off her and the rope got caught around her neck, killing her. 

In this Surah, Allah Ta'ala says that Abu Lahab will be put into the Fire of Hell and his wife will have a rope of palm fibre around her neck. 

This Surah teaches us that those who hate our Nabi Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) will be punished by Allah Ta?ala. Allah Ta?ala does not tolerate a slightest hate against His most respected Prophet. Imaan means to have true love for our Nabi Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). 

This Surah was revealed in Makkatul Mukarramah. It has 5 Ayahs, 20 words and 77 letters (harf). 

SURAH NASR 

1. When the Help of Allah and Victory come. 2. And you see men entering the religion of Allah in troops.3. Then praising Allah glorify Him and beg His Forgiveness: Undoubtedly, He is most Accepting Repentance. 

Surah an-Nasr (The Help) was a sign from Allah Ta?ala that the Holy Prophet's (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) work had been completed. Islam had spread beyond Makkah and Madina. By now thousands and thousands of people had accepted Islam. Many tribes also came to accept Islam at the blessed hands of the beloved Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). His mission was successful. This Surah teaches us that Allah Ta?ala helps and gives victory to Muslims if they remain steadfast. Whenever a person is successful in any work, no matter how much he sacrificed and how much good he has done, he must never forget to remain humble before Allah Ta'ala, the Creator of the Universe. Muslims must pray to Allah Ta?ala and beg forgiveness from Him daily. As an example for us, our Nabi Muhammad made Tauba (Allah?s forgiveness) 70 times a day although he was, so that we too will follow his teachings. 

This Surah was revealed in Madinatul Munawwarah. It has 3 Ayahs, 17 words and 77 letters (harf). 

SURAH KAAFIROON 

1. Say you: O unbelievers! 2. I worship not that you worship. 3. And nor you worship what I worship. 4. And I shall not worship what you worshipped. 5. And nor you shall worship what I worship. 6. For you, your religion, and for me my religion. 

The Makkans wanted to make deals with the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) to change the religion of Islam so that they will find it easier to follow. In one of the deals some people said that they will worship Allah Ta'ala only for one year if the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) would worship their idols the next year, and they could continue to take turns year after year. So Allah Ta'ala revealed Surah al-Kaafiroon (The Unbelievers) to make it clear to the Quraish that it was not possible. Our Nabi Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) recited this Surah openly in public at every place to tell the Kufaar that the Muslims and the Kaafirs were not going to compromise as both their religions were not the same. 

This Surah also tells us how to speak to the unbelievers. If a person does not accept Islam after it has been explained to him, we should not argue with that person, but simply say: "You follow your way, I will follow mine." 

The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said that we must recite this Surah before going to sleep at night to protect us from unbelief. 

This Surah was revealed in Makkatul Mukarramah. It has 6 Ayahs, 26 words and 94 letters (harf).

SURAH MA'OON 

1. Well you see him who denies the Judgement. 2. Then he is the one who drives away the orphan. 3. And does not urge the feeding of the poor. 4. Then woe to those prayer performers, 5. Who are heedless of their prayers. 6. Those who make a show of it. 7. And refuse to give articles of use. 

The title of this Surah means ?The Basic Necessities?. In this Surah, Allah Ta'ala condemns people who only pay attention to the act of Salaah, but do not worry about nor take care of the orphans and the poors. These people do not want to help others. This Surah also warns against being forgetful of one's prayers by not praying regularly or on time. Some people only pray so that others will say that he or she is very religious. The Holy Quran says that such people only pray to show people and warns such people. People who refuse to do even simple things for others are really hard-hearted and stingy. This Surah teaches us to help our fellow Muslim brothers in need. It is our duty to help the deprived, poor, orphans, the needy, etc. If we do not help them then Allah Ta?ala will be displeased with us. 

This Surah was revealed to our Nabi Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) in Makkatul Mukarramah. It has 7 Ayahs, 25 words and 125 letters (harf). 

SURAH QURAISH 

1. Because the Quraish were made to benefit. 2. He made them benefit in their journeys of both winter and summer. 3. They should therefore worship the Lord of this House.4. Who gave them food in hunger, and bestowed them security from a big fear. 

Surah al-Quraish means ?The Quraish Tribe.? The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) belonged to the Quraish Tribe. The Quraish earned their living by trading with their neighbours. In the winter they sent trade caravans Southeast, to Yemen, to buy spices and other goods. In the summer they sold these goods to the people of the north, Shaam (Syria), from whom they bought many food products. The Quraish became very respected and protected wherever they went as they were also in charge of the Holy Kaaba. The Quraish were also well recognised because they defeated Abraha, the Christian leader who tried to destroy the Holy Kaaba. The Quraish had become used to their comfortable position and never having to worry about their food and safety. In this Surah, Allah Ta'ala tells that they should worship Him, the Lord of the Kaaba, rather than the idols which they have put in and around the Holy Kaaba. They should thank Allah Ta'ala for providing for all their needs. 

This Surah was revealed in Makkatul Mukarramah. It has 4 Ayahs, 17 words and 73 letters (harf). 

SURAH FEEL 

1. O beloved! Have you not seen how your Lord dealth with the men of the Elephant? 2. Did He not cause their devise to be ruined. 3. And He sent against them flocks of bird. 4. Striking them with stones made of baked clay, 5. And thus made them like broken straw eaten up. 

Surah al-Feel (The Elephant) tells us about how Allah Ta'ala destroyed the army that came to destroy the Holy Kaaba.

Abraha, a powerful Christian leader, built a grand Church in San?aa but the Yamanite Arabs did not worship the idols placed in his Church. The Arabs had their own idols in the Holy Kaaba which they worshipped. Abraha was bent on destroying the Holy Kaaba, so he marched to Makkah with sixty thousand men and several huge elephants, to destroy the Holy Kaaba. The army was too great for the people of Makkah to fight so they went and hid in the mountains and caves around Makkah. As Abraha's army came near Makkah, the head elephant stopped and refused to fight in the war. Then Allah Ta'ala destroyed the enemies with a flock of birds which attacked them with stones of clay. These clay pebbles pierced through the bodies of Abraha?s warriors along with their elephants and horses. They began to bleed heavily and they died in a short time. The Holy Kaaba and Makkah were left unharmed. When Abraha and his army came to destroy the Holy Kaaba the people of Makkah prayed to Allah Ta?ala for help and protection. This Surah was a reminder to the Quraish that they must worship the One and only Allah who is the Lord of the Kaaba. They should think about how Allah Ta'ala destroyed Abraha and his army and should also not oppose Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). This Surah assures Muslims that

Allah Ta?ala can protect any of His Signs by any of His creatures. If a small community of steadfast Muslims depend on Allah Ta?ala, He will be able to destroy any super power with His tiny creatures to protect these faithful Muslims.

This Surah was revealed in Makkatul Mukarramah. It has 5 Ayahs, 20 words and 96 letters (harf). 

SURAH ASR 

1. By the time of the beloved (Prophet). 2. Undoubtedly, man is necessarily in loss. 3. But those who believed, and did good deeds, and joined one another to accept truth, and counselled one another to be steadfast. 

Surah al-Asr (The Passing Time) summarises in a few words the main themes of the Holy Quran. This Surah says that we will be losers if we do not make the most of our time by filling it with good deeds. It is these good deeds that will help us in the Hereafter. 

Those who do not believe in Allah and do not do good deeds, or spent their lives in lies and hypocrisy, will one day lose all that they worked for. Those who do not struggle to establish or fight for the truth will end up being losers.

We must have faith and always try to do our best. We must encourage each other - our family, friends, and neighbours - to strive for what is good and true and have patience to be successful. 

This Surah teaches us that we must have four basic characteristics: 1. Our belief must be perfect. We must not have wrong beliefs, 2. We must perform pious deeds as taught by Allah Ta?ala and His beloved Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), 3. We must encourage others to follow the truth, and 4. We must enjoin others to be patient and steadfast. It is said that when the Sahabas met, they would recite this Surah before parting each other's company. 

This Surah was revealed in Makkatul Mukarramah. It has 3 Ayahs, 14 words and 68 letters (harf).

SURAH TAKATHUR 

1. The piling of more wealth has kept you heedless. 2. Till you saw your graves. 3. Yes, soon you will come to know. 4. Again, yes, soon you will come to know. 5. Yes, if you had known with knowledge of certainty, you would not have loved wealth. 6. Undoubtedly, you shall necessarily, see Hell. 7. Then again, undoubtedly, you shall necessarily see it with the eye of certainty. 8. Then, undoubtedly, you shall surely be asked about the favours. 

Surah at-Takathur (The Piling of Wealth) is a warning to people who spend much of their time trying to make more money and collect more material possessions for the sake of being richer or more important. Such people want to be better than other people in something. The Holy Quran says that such people will find out the truth in the grave. None will carry anything in the grave and no riches will work after death.

The only thing that will be of use in the Aakirah (Hereafter) will be the good deeds. People will be thrown in the Hell and will be questioned for what they have been doing. We will be questioned in the Aakirah about everything (favours) which Allah Ta'ala has given us and what we have done with it (our wealth, health, food, clothing, talents and abilities, etc.) The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) lived a very simple life and we should do the same. 

This Surah was revealed to the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) in Makkatul Mukarramah. It has 8 Ayahs, 28 words and 120 letters (harf). 

SURAH QADR 

1. Undoubtedly, We sent it down in the blessed and valuable Night. 2. And what do you know, what the blessed Night is? 3. The blessed and valuable night is better than a thousand months. 4. Therein descend Angels and Jibra?eel (the Spirit) by the command of their Lord for every affair. 5. That is all peace till the rising of the dawn. 

Surah Qadr (The Power) tells us about Laylatul-Qadr or the Night of Power. It is during this night that the Holy Quran was sent down from the Preserved Tablet to the lowest Heaven. It is also the night that Hazrat Jibra'eel (alaihis salaam) appeared to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) in the cave with the first revelation of the Holy Quran (al-Alaq 96: 1-5) 

Laylatul-Qadr falls on one of the odd-numbered nights of the last ten days of the month of Ramadaan (i.e., the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th or 29th). During these last ten days, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and his Companions used to spend all their time in the mosque in seclusion (I'tikaf), praying and reading the Holy Quran, and waiting for this special night on which the Angels come down to earth with Allah Ta'ala's commands. It is said that if a person is awake on this night and asks Allah Ta'ala for something, He will give it to him. 

This Surah was revealed in Makkatul Mukarramah. It has 5 Ayahs, 30 words and 112 letters (harf). 

SURAH INSHIRAH 

1. Have We not expanded your chest? 2. And removed from you your burden. 3. Which had broken your back? 4. And We have exalted for you your remembrance. 5. Therefore, surely there is ease with hardship. 6. Undoubtedly, there is ease with hardship. 7. So when you are free after prayer, then strive hard in invocation. 8. And attend to your Lord only. 

Surah Inshirah (The Expansion) was revealed during the very early days of the Prophet's (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) mission. The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had been very troubled in his early years by the terrible things which went on in Makkan society: young girls were buried alive, poor people were exploited or abused by the rich, and wars were fought between tribes, killing innocent people. The Arabs began worshipping idols instead of the One Allah. All these things were a great burden or weight upon the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). When Hazrat Jibra'eel (alaihis salaam) came to him with Allah's Word, it was a great means of comfort and easing his burden. 

After reminding Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) of Allah Ta'ala's great favours upon him, the Surah goes on to say that Almighty Allah always sends some relief along with or after every difficulty. We should continue to strive to perform our worship even after Allah Ta'ala has eased our load with His Mercy. Many people are very active in praying when they are in trouble but when everything is going well they forget Allah Ta'ala. When our duties have been performed, we should spend time in the evening and night hours with our Lord, in worship. 

The verse "And We have exalted for you your remembrance" was a prophecy of the future. It promises the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) that his status will be famous among the people and will continue to achieve fame. This proved to be true, as he was the first Prophet in history to achieve complete success during his lifetime. There is no moment in which the blessed Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is not mentioned somewhere in the world - either in the Shahdah, calling the Adhan, performing the Salaah, giving the Khutbah, reciting the Salaat and Salaam, or making Du'a. This is Allah Ta'la's special favour to him as His final Messenger and beloved servant. 

This Surah was revealed in Makkatul Mukarramah. It has 8 Ayahs, 27 words and 103 letters (harf). 

SURAH DHUHA 

1. By the growing brightness of the morning. 2. And by the night when it covers. 3. Your Lord has not forsaken you, nor He was disgust. 4. And undoubtedly, the following one is better for you than the preceding one. 5. And soon your Lord shall give you so much that you will be satisfied. 6. Did He not find you an orphan, then give you shelter? 7. And He found you drowned in His Love, therefore gave way unto Him. 8. And He found you needy so He enriched you. 9. So put not pressure over orphan. 10. And chide not the beggar. 11. And publicize well the favours of your Lord. 

Surah ad-Dhuha (The Morning Light) was revealed during the early days of the Prophet's (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) mission. In this period he was worried and Hazrat Jibra'eel (alaihis salaam) did not come with any Revelations for some time. The unbelievers of Makkah started to tease the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), saying that his Lord had abandoned him. Allah Ta?ala assures the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) that He can never leave him being His most perfect model for humanity. Allah Ta?ala being the Most Merciful can never be Angry with His great Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) who is also ?Rahmatul-lil-Aalameen? (Mercy unto Mankind). Allah Ta?ala also assures the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) that every tomorrow of his is better than today, meaning that the Holy Prophet?s (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) status will ever increase till he occupies the highest seat of Maqaam-e-Mahmood in the Aakirah. So, the first section begins by assuring him that everything would turn out well in the end. Many scholars have translated verse 7 saying that the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was astray and Allah Ta?ala showed him the right way. (Allah forbid!) All the Prophets and Messengers of Allah Ta?ala are righteous, pious and on the straight path, being innocent by birth. The Holy Prophet who is the Imaam of all the Prophets (alaihimus salaam) was never astray or wrongly wandering or the one who lost his way. The second section reminds Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) that

Allah Ta'ala had helped him out of many troubles before. The beloved Messenger of Allah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was burdened by the death of his father, mother and grandfather in his early childhood; Allah Ta'ala provided for him through the care of his uncle and later through his marriage to the wealthy widow, Hazrat Khatija (radi Allahu anha), his first wife. From a difficult beginning Allah Ta'ala raised him to a position of fame. 

In this Surah, Allah Ta'ala was instructing Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and all the Believers to be very careful of their treatment of those more unfortunate than themselves. The Prophet's (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) life was the best example of good treatment for us to follow. Gratefulness to Allah Ta?ala is a must for everyone. 

This Surah was revealed in Makkatul Mukarramah. It has 11 Ayahs, 40 words and 172 letters (harf). 

SURAH THEEN 

1. By the Fig and the Olive. 2. And by Mount Sinai. 3. And by this City of Security. 4. Undoubtedly, we have made man in the fairest stature. 5. Then We restored him the lowest of the low. 6. But those who believed and did good deeds, for them is a never -ending reward. 7. What then now causes you to lie about the Judgement? 8. Is not Allah the Greatest of all Rulers? 

Surah Theen (The Fig) begins with an oath on the fig, the olive, Mount Sinai and on the City of Makkah. Allah Ta'ala says that He created humans in the best of forms, and then reduced him to the lowest of the low - except those who believe and do good. Allah Ta'ala had honoured Hazrat Adam (alaihis salaam) and his children above all creatures, giving humans the possibility of reaching a height above the Angels, through obedience. The people who believe and act righteous are entitled to the highest credit from Allah Taala. They will receive unlimited rewards. On the other hand, people who ignore their higher nature can come down to a level of behaviour much worse than the most savage animals.

The Surah ends by asking: what could make people deny the final Judgement? People who do the worst crimes are never caught, and many people who do the best throughout their lives are never rewarded. It is Allah Ta'ala who will hand out the true and exact Justice to His creatures in the end. 

This Surah was revealed in Makkatul Mukarramah. It has 8 Ayahs, 34 words and 105 letters (harf).

QUESTION AND ANSWERS

Question: If any act was not done correctly or mistakenly during the Hajj and Umrah, can the Dam be given outside the precincts of the sacred Haram?

Answer: If it is Waajib to give Dam for the mistakes made during Hajj and Umrah,

then that animal of Dam should be slaughtered in the Haram. If the animal is slaughtered outside the precinct of the Haram, Dam will not be regarded as valid.

Question: Can a person receive injections while he or she is fasting?

Answer: Yes. Most injections do not invalidate the fast. If a person can manage keeping the fast, and has no desire to break the fast, he or she may take an injection.

Question: Can Zakaah money be used to pay the salaries of those who collect Zakaah?

Answer: The paying of salary for a fund-raiser from Zakaah money is only permissable after making Hela-e-Shar'i. The method of Hela-e-Shar'i is that the Zakaat should be given to a Faqeer (poor person) by making him the owner of the money, then in his own way, the Faqeer should give this money to the Zakaat organisation for its use. In this way, the obligation of Zakaat will be accomplished, and the Faqeer will become worthy of Sawaab. Only after this is done, should the money be utilised to pay the salary of the fund-raiser. (Fatawa Amjadiya, Vol. 2)

Question: How many sons did Hazrat Ali (radi Allahu anhu) have?

Answer: It is known that Hazrat Ali (radi Allahu anhu) had four children, namely two sons - Hazrat Hasan and Hazrat Hussain and two daughters - Hazrat Zainab and Hazrat Umme Khulsum. This is the view of the majority of scholars as found in history. But, according to the Shias, they claim that Hazrat Ali (radi Allahu anhu) had a third son named Muhassin.

Question: Can breast-feeding mothers keep fast?

Answer: If the breast-feeding mother has sufficient milk and is in good health, she should keep fast provided she must also be convinced that by fasting no harm will come to her baby. However, if the breast milk is adversely affected on account of the fast, the mother should not fast.

Question: If a person who performed Umrah did not shave his head and returned to his country, what should he do?

Answer: He should shave his head and give Dam.

Question: What is the name of Hazrat Jibraeel's (alaihis salaam) horse?

Answer: Haizoom

Question: What time can a person start reading Fajr Namaaz?

Answer: Fajr Salaah begins with the rising of dawn until sunrise and Fajr Salaah must be read in this time, irrespective whether Azaan is given or not.

Question: Is the month of Safar a bad month ? Is it allowed to travel, to marry, etc. in this month?

Answer: This is only the way the people think. There is no source of such information in Shariah. Like other months of the year, it is permissible in Safar to travel, to marry, etc. According to the Shariah there is nothing bad. It has come in the Hadith that

there is no such thing as Safar (Laa Safara); in other words, it is improper for people to think of this as a bad month.

Question: Is it permissible to use the term "radi Allahu anhu" for the Awliya Allah and the pious?

Answer: The term "radi Allahu anhu" is used in the Holy Quran with reference to the Sahaba-e-Kiraam and the Tabi'in. To use any other words of Dua for them will be contrary to the tradition of the Holy Quran. However, the use of this term for non-Sahaba (Awliya Allah and Buzrugaan-e-Deen) is also proper. The Shariah did not prohibit this in any way and there is no objection towards this. In the Arab countries, this term is also used for the learned Ulema. By writing or saying "radi Allahu anhu" with the name of a non-Sahaba will not make them the Sahaba. To think in this way is improper.

Question: Adjacent to where I live, a group of Muslims have formed a club. They meet almost on a daily basis to play card games and money is outlaid on betting resulting in people losing and winning money. Is this permissible?

Answer: The playing of cards is abominable. Where money is outlaid in bets resulting in people winning and losing money amounts to gambling. Gambling is absolutely Haraam.

Question: Is it permissible in Islam for Muslim men to marry Christian or Jewish women and allowing the women to practice their faith?

Answer: Islam does allow marriages to Christian and Jewish women who hold the correct beliefs and practices in their religion as People of the Book. However, in this day and age, it is not possible to find such Christian or Jewish women because over the years their religions have deviated from the true and original teachings of their Prophets to a point where the beliefs of most Christian denominations or Sects amount to Kufr and Shirk. Islam does not allow marriages with Mushriks (one who indulges in Shirk) or an unbeliever.

Question: When a Janazah is brought to the mosque at the time of any Fardh Salaah, Jummah Salaah or Eid Salaah, which should be performed first, the Salaatul Janazah or the above-mentioned Salaah?

Answer: When a Janazah arrives at the time of a Fardh Salaah and a Jamaat has congregated, then the Fardh Salaah should be performed first, followed by the Sunnats. Thereafter, the Salaatul Janazah should be performed. In the case of Eid Salaah, the Eid Salaah ought to be performed first, followed by the Janazah Salaah and then followed by the Khutbah.

Question: Is it permissible for Muslims to purchase and burn fireworks especially during the festival of Diwali?

Answer: This practise is not permissible for Muslims as it is a waste of money. It is stated in a Hadith that: "There is no good (benefit) in lavishness."

Question: If a person gives his wife three Talaaqs at one sitting, will such an action be accepted as three Talaaqs or as just a single Talaaq?

Answer: According to the Ahnaaf (Hanafis), this action has the effect of three Talaaqs. The Ghair Muqalideen and the misled do not accept this ruling and consider it to be only one Talaaq, which is improper.

Question: Fathima Begum Mohammed's husband has disappeared without trace for 8 years. There has been no confirmation of his death nor of him being alive. Fathima is extremely upset and worried. How does Shariah advise her in this matter?

Answer: In the case of a missing husband, the Fatawa (religious ruling) of Imam Maalik (radi Allahu anhu) is applied. The Imam's ruling states that if after four years the husband is not found, then the local Qazi or a group of senior pious and religious men from the Muslim Community may dissolve the marriage between the missing husband and his wife and instruct her to serve Iddat-e-Wafaat (Iddat upon death of husband) from that moment on time. Upon completion of the Iddat, the missing man's wife may marry again. Allama Shaami (radi Allahu anhu) states that where in a small community there is no Qazi, then a group of senior Muslims of the Jamaat (Congregation) may dissolve the marriage.

Question: Can Muslim children act as "Rama" and "Sita" in a Diwali or school play?

Answer: It is Na Jaa'iz or totally disallowed for Muslims to participate in such games, sketches and plays.

Question: It is a well known fact that Hazrat Khizr (alaihis salaam) is alive. Out of love for Hazrat Khizr (alaihis salaam), every week I offer Fateha in his name and also in the name of all Marhoums. Some say that Fateha may only be read in the name of deceased persons and not in the name of those who are alive. Could you please advise me on this matter?

Answer: Those who hold the view that Esaale Sawaab may only be read for the dead are wrong. Without doubt, Esaale Sawaab may be done for the living and the dead. (Durre Mukhtar; Shaami, Vol.10, p.242)

Question: What was the name of Hazrat Maryam's (alaiha salaam) mother?

Answer: Husna bint Faaqooza

Question: Which harf has appeared the least in the Holy Quran?

Answer: "Zaa" - Eight Hundred and Forty Two (842) times.

Question: What is "Maqaam-e-Mahmood"?

Answer: "Maqaam-e-Mahmood" is that place where Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) will stand on the Day of Reckoning and intercede for his Ummah (Station of Intercession).

Question: In the light of Hadith Shareef, and in accordance to the sayings of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), what is one of the unique ethics of Islam?

Answer: Hayaa or Shyness.

Question: Is it permissible to make Salaam to a Faasiq (Open Sinner) or to shake hands with him?

Answer: It is Makrooh to make Salaam to a Faasiq. A'la Hazrat, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (rahmatullahi alai) has stated as follows in his "Malfooz": If a Faasiq wants to shake hands, then it is permissible, but you should not be the first to do so, even though he is a Faasiq. However, it is not allowed with false innovators.

Question: Is Tawaaf without making the Niyyah valid?

Answer: No. Tawaaf without Niyyah is not valid. It is Fard to make Niyyah for Tawaaf.

Question: What should one do if one realises that Tawaaf was not performed correctly, eg. not starting from Hajre Aswad?

Answer: The Tawaaf should be repeated as it is not valid. This should be done while one is in Makkah. However, if this is not possible it is Waajib for one to make Dumm.

Question: Is it compulsory to perform two Rakaah Salaah at Maqaam-e-Ibrahim?

Answer: Yes. This Salaah is Waajib. It should not be read during Makrooh times. It must be read after making the Tawaaf or later.

Question: Where should a person wear the Ihraam?

Answer: The Ihraam should be worn before one passes the Miqaats -boundries (i.e. those specific places beyond which it is not permissable to cross without putting on the Ihraam). To cross the Miqaat without the Ihraam is not permissable. If a person is travelling by plane it is difficult to determine the Miqaats. It is best advisable to tie the Ihraam before one boards the plane. This is only applies for the Hajj season. The Hajj season begins from the month of Shawaal.

Question: Many people say that the urine of a new born child is paak. Is this true?

Answer: The urine of a child even if he/she is only one day old is Na Paak (Impure). (Ahkam-e-Shariah)

Question: Is it permissible for a man to give Talaaq to his wife while she is pregnant?

Answer: Talaaq should not be given during pregnancy. However, if it is given, then it will be valid. In this case, the Iddat will be until the birth of the child. (Ahkam-e-Shariah)

Question: Is it allowed to make Tilaawat of the Quran during the time of Zawwal?

Answer: It is better to read Durood or to be engrossed in any other Zikr during the exact time of sunrise, sunset or Zawwal, rather than reciting the Holy Quran. These times are not appropriate for the recitation of the Holy Quran. (Ahkam-e-Shariah)

Question: Does the Shariah allow a Muslim female to travel alone for Hajj or to gain Ilm-e-Deen?

Answer: It is not permissible for any women to travel abroad without a Mahram, even if it is for the reason of gaining Ilm-e- Deen. To travel alone to a foreign land without a Mahram is against the laws of the Quran and Ahadith. Thus, there is no use in striving to study Ilm-e-Deen if it is done in the manner prohibited by Shariah. Hajj is one of the pillars of Islam and obligatory upon every Muslim who has the means of accomplishing it. But, even to accomplish this Fardh, it is not permissible for a women to travel for Hajj alone. It has been narrated from Hazrat Abdullah Ibn Abbas (radi Allahu anhu), that the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said, "A women may not travel, except with a Dhu Mahram, and no man may visit her except with a Dhu Mahram." A man got up and said, "Ya Rasoolallah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)! I intend to go to a certain battle and my wife wants to perform Hajj." The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said (to him), "Go along with her (to Hajj)." (Ref: Bukhari, Vol. 2, Ahadith No. 085)

Question: What is the law in a case where the husband commands the wife to do a certain chore (task) and the chore will take so much time that her salaah will become Qazah. Should she follow the command of her husband in such a case?

Answer: She should perform her Salaah. For him to give such a command (at the time of Namaaz) is Haraam.

Question: Is the month of Safar a bad month ? Is it allowed to travel, to marry, etc. in this month?

Answer: This is only the way the people think. There is no source of such information in Shariah. Like other months of the year, it is permissible in Safar to travel, to marry, etc. According to the Shariah there is nothing bad. It has come in the Hadith that there is no such thing as Safar (Laa Safara); in other words, it is improper for people to think of this as a bad month.

Question: What is the law in the case where a person is in need of Ghusl but knows that by the time he performs Ghusl, his Fajr Salaah will become Qazah?

Answer: He should make Tayammum and perform his Salaah and then make Ghusl and repeat the Salaah.

Question: After sunrise, how long does one have to wait before making Qazah Namaaz?

Answer: To wait at least twenty minutes after sunrise is Waajib.

Question: What are the Fards (Faraa'id) of Ghusal?

Answer: Firstly, to wash the whole mouth. If you are not fasting, then you must gargle your mouth until the water reaches the throat. Secondly, to cleanse the nostrils. Thirdly, to wash the whole body thoroughly from the head to the toe.

Question: In Salaah, how must the female cover herself?

Answer: It is necessary for her to cover the body from the head to the feet, except the face. The feet till the ankles and the hands till the wrist must be covered.

Question: What are the four Faraa'id of Wudu?

Answer: To wash the face - which is from the forehead till the chin and from one ear to the other ear once. To wash both the arms till the elbows once. To make Masah of at least a quarter of the head. By quarter is meant 4 fingers width. To wash the feet till the ankles once. If these 4 actions are not carried out, then the Wudu will be incomplete. It will, therefore, be Haraam for a person to read Salaah.

Question: What is the ruling of the Shariah regarding the following: Because of land development for housing, the developer's wish to exhume the bodies of unknown Muslim students or disciples of Hazrat Sayyid Jaffer (rahmatullahi alai) at the place called Camps Bay. The Cape Mazaar Society wishes to know whether such an action is Islamically correct. If not, what action should be followed?

Answer: If the land is Waqf, like that of the general Muslim graveyards, or if it is the personal property of an individual who allows Muslims to be buried there and there are graves already existing there, then to erect houses on such land is disallowed. To build houses on the graves is disrespect to the deceased, and disrespect to the deceased is Haraam. It has been stated in "Raddul Muhtar": "That which causes discomfort to the living, causes discomfort to the deceased." It is clear from the above mentioned statement that to build on the graves of Muslims is Haraam. It is written in "Fatawa Alamgeeri": "To walk on graves is sin. The top of the grave is the belonging of the Mayyit." Thus the Cape Mazaar Society and the Muslims should join hands and oppose such an un-Islamic act. You should also try to legally stop this act.

Question: When is it forbidden to read any Nafil Salaah?

Answer: After the break of dawn; before sunrise; after the Fard of the Fajar Salaah; after Asar Salaah until sunset; and during the Khutbah of both the Eids and the Jummah Salaah.

Question: What is the law in the case where a person is in need of Ghusl but knows that by the time he performs Ghusl, his Fajr Salaah will become Qazah?

Answer: If one makes Wudu or Ghusl, then the Salaah will become Qazah, thus one should make Tayammum in place of Ghusal. (Tayammum can be performed for Ghusal and for Wudu. There is no need to make individual Tayammum for each). Then he must make Ghusl-Wudu and repeat the Salaah.

Question: What is the importance of the second Azaan of Jummah Salaah in the Islamic Shariah and what happens if any person unintentionally or intentionally leaves out the second Azaan of Jummah?

Answer: From the Ahd-e-Risaalah (Time of the Prophet sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) right till the Ahd-e-Khilaafah of Sayyiduna Uthman-e-Ghani (radi Allahu anhu) only one Azaan, the Azaan-e-Khutba, meaning the Azaan before the Khutba used to be called out.

During the rule of Sayyiduna Uthman-e-Ghani (radi Allahu anhu) he announced the commencement of the Azaan when the time starts for Jummah Salaah, which is today known as the first Azaan, but he left the second Azaan of the Azaan-e-Khutba as it was. Even till this very day this practice is being upheld in all Muslim states.

If any Imam of the Musjid leaves out the second Azaan, or opposes the giving of the second Azaan, then he is the cause of a new fitna (disruption) in the Ummah. Allah Forbid! The Azaan-e-Thaani (second Azaan) is Sunnat-e-Mutawatira Mubaaraka (A continuous blessed Sunnah) which has been consistent from the time of the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) till this day without any dispute. To follow and continue this Sunnah is a means of great Sawaab and blessing. However, if somebody unintentionally leaves out or forgets the second Azaan, then the Salaah will not become void.

Question: How should the body of a female be positioned when she is in Sajdah?

Answer: The stomach and the armpits should be close to the body. The elbows should lie flat to the ground. The thigh should not be raised, but as flat as a position as possible. The hips should not be raised and should be as close to the ground as possible.

Question: The Jamaat seeks clarification and wishes to enquire whether Zakaat money could be utilised for the payment of the Madressa Appas salaries. It may be mentioned that the majority of the Madressa children come from poor families and are unable to meet the Madressa fees of R20 per term or R80 per year. At present the madressa has a roll of about 200 children.

Answer: The Madressa should firstly try its utmost to gain funds to run the affairs of the Madressa. However, if this is still in vain, then Zakaat can be accepted. The Zakaat must be utilized after performing Hela-e-Shar'i. The method of Hela-e-Shar'i is that the Zakaat should be given to a Faqeer (poor person) by making him the owner of the money, then in his own way, the Faqeer should give this money to the madressa for its use. In this way, the obligation of Zakaat will be accomplished, and the Faqeer will become worthy of Sawaab. Only after this is done, should the money be utilised to run the affairs of the Madressa.

Question: Is it permissible for only one Hafiz to perform Taraweeh Salaah reciting the Holy Quran?

Answer: Yes, it is permissible for only one Hafiz to perform the Taraweeh Salaah, reciting the entire Holy Quran. It has been stated in the authentic kitaabs of Fiqh that it is more excellent to perform Taraweeh behind only one Haafiz, and if one wishes, then there can be two Huffaz.

Question: Is a husband allowed to touch the Janazah of his deceased wife?

Answer: Yes. The Janazah of the female can be carried and touched by the husband. It can also be lowered into the grave by the husband. The husband is only not allowed to touch the body directly (contact with flesh), but can do so if necessary with a covered hand. "Bahre Shariat" and "Qanun-e-Shariat" have a detailed explanation.

Question: Must one remain seated or standing while the Iqaamat is being called out?

Answer: It is not proper to remain standing throughout the Iqaamat. However it is Sunnah to sit and listen to the Iqaamat. Proof of this is present both in the Hadith of Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim. Hazrat Abu Qatadah (radi Allahu anhu) reports that the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said, "When the Iqaamat for Salaah is being given, then do not stand until you do not see me come out of my Hujrah (room)." In reference to this Hadith, the Muhaditheen have clearly explained that the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) used to come out of his room at the time when the Mu'azzin would say "Haya alas Salaah - Haya Alal Falaah." It has been stated in "Bahare Shariah" with the reference of "Fatawa Alamgiri" as follows: "Those present in the Musjid should remain seated at the time of the Iqaamat and should only stand when the Mukabbir (Mu'azzin) says 'Haya Alal Falaah'. To act against this is Khilaaf-e-Sunnah (in contradiction of the Sunnah)."

Question: What is the proper Islamic method of drawing up an Islamic Will and how should the wealth of the deceased be distributed?

Answer: According to the Shariah, a Muslim has the right to make a Wasiyyah of only one-third of his wealth or his Estate. If one makes a Wasiyyah of more than one-third, then the Will becomes null and void according to the Shariah. If such a situation arises then such an incorrect Wasiyyah should never be carried out.

The proper Islamic method of distributing the wealth of the deceased is to firstly pay off all expenses (viz. kaffan, burial, etc.) from his wealth. Thereafter, the deceased debts should be paid. From the remainder, one-third can be used to carry out any of the Wasiyyat, if any, left by the deceased. Finally, the remainder of the belongings is to be distributed amongst the heirs according to the Laws of Inheritance as laid down by the Shariah. (Fatawa Alamgeeri, Hidayah, Fatawa Radawiyyah, etc.)

Question: What are the basic Islamic responsibilities of the husband towards his wife?

Answer: It is Waajib (compulsory) upon the husband to provide the necessities, such as, a roof to live under, and food and clothing for his wife. The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has stated: "I am asking you to be generous with your women. You should accept this advice of mine. They have been created from the rib and ribs are curved (not straight) and from amongst the ribs, the one most bent is the one on the top. If your try to straighten it, then it will break and if you let it be, then it will remain bent (curved)" (Bukhari & Muslim)Question: Is the father allowed to give the Zakaat to his daughter?

Question: Can a woman make Tawaaf in the state of Janaabat?

Answer: No. Tahaarat is a condition for Tawaaf, but Sa'ee can be performed while she is in the state of Janaabat. Tahaarat for Sa'ee is Mustahab.

Question: When and how should the nails be trimmed?

Answer: The nails should be trimmed every Friday. After trimming the nails, they should be buried and not thrown in a dirt bin because they are part of a Muslim's body and should be respected. The approved manner of trimming the nails is to start

with the Shahaadah finger of the right hand then the remaining fingers excluding the right thumb. Thereafter, one should start with the small finger of the left hand till the Shahaadah finger and lastly trim the nail of the left thumb and then the right thumb.

Question: Recently, there has appeared a number of articles in the media about the circumcision of Muslim women in some African countries and the harm that it is causing. What is the Islamic ruling concerning the circumcision of women?

Answer: The circumcision of women in not Sunnah and neither has it been an emphasized command in Shariat. It is a tradition in certain of the Arab countries. It is stated in the Hadith Shareef, "Circumcision is Sunnah for men, and for women it is only better." It is also stated in "Dur're Mukhtar" that: "The circumcision of women is not Sunnah, but for the sake of the men, it is something which is better, and this statement that it is Sunnah, is Da'if (weak)." Where the tradition of circumcision for women is not present, it should not be started since this will cause people to laugh at and make a mockery of Shariat. (Fatawa Afriqa)

Question: Can a person read Namaaz without a hat?

Answer: If a person reads Namaaz without a hat thinking that Namaaz is just a physical activity, then this is Kufr. If a person reads Namaaz without a hat due to the heat or forgetfulness, then this is Makrooh-e-Tanzeeh.

Question: After slaughtering an animal it was discovered that a foetus was in the belly of the animal. Is the Qurbani still accepted or not?

Answer: The Qurbani will be accepted. If after slaughtering an animal it is discovered that the animal was pregnant and a live foetus appears in the belly, then it is necessary to slaughter that foetus.

Question: Can Zakaah be given to a person who owns a television set, but at the same time he does not have the financial means of supporting his family and paying his expenses?

Answer: It is mentioned in "Durr-e-Mukhtar" that to pay Zakaat to a person who is misguided is not permissable. For one to own a television set and watch it is considered as Haraam and a sin, but this does not necessitate that Zakaat should be withheld from him as he is still considered as a needy Muslim. One should try and stop him from sinning and by displaying good actions by means of a favour towards that person will make it easier for him to refrain from any more sins.

Question: Is the wife allowed to give Talaaq to her husband?

Answer: The Islamic Shariah has allocated the right of Talaaq to the husband and has not placed it in the hands of the wife as Ayah 237 of Surah Baqarah states: " ...in whose hands is the marriage tie." But if the wife desires, she can ask her husband to divorce her by offering him something. Talaaq is a very serious matter and disliked by Almighty Allah. The Hadith states that the Arsh of Almighty shakes when a Talaaq is given. Without any solid reason based upon the Shariah, to give and ask for Talaaq is a great sin.

Question: Must Ghusl be performed for a still-born child?

Answer: The actual Ghusl will not be given. The body must only be washed, wrapped in a clean cloth and buried. There is also no Janazah Salaah for a still-born child. (Durr-al-Mukhtar)

Question: Is it necessary for a woman, whose husband has passed away, to go to someone elses house after the Iddat period?

Answer: No. It is not necessary for a woman to go visiting immediately after the Iddat period. It is said that this must be done to show others that her Iddat period is now complete. This is not necessary and carried out due to ignorance. Such a practice has no ties with the Shariah.

Question: What is "Taqiyyah?"

Answer: "Taqiyyah", in Shia'ite doctrine, is the concealing of the truth for the purposes of misleading the innocent believers in the name of religion. This, in Shia'ite belief, is regarded as a great form of Ibaadah carrying a very great reward. In essence, Taqiyyah involves lying and deceitfully misleading innocent Muslims into the Shia'ite fold.

Question: If a person is very sick and cannot stand and perform the Salaah, how should the Salaah be performed?

Answer: If a person is sick and cannot stand and read the Salaah, he or she may sit and read the Salaah. The head should be bent a little for Ruku and a little more for Sajdah. If the person is very sick and cannot even sit up, then he or she may perform Salaah while lying on his or her back. The head should be placed on a high position and the knees bent so that he or she will be able to bend the head a little for Ruku and a little more for Sajdah. If his or her knees cannot bend, then the legs should be facing straight towards the Qiblah.

Question: What is "Tahiyatul Masjid Salaah"?

Answer: This special Salaah consist of 2 Rakaah Sunnah which is read by a person on entering a Masjid. It should be read before one sits in the Masjid.