Hasten To Do Good

Sheikh ‘Alee al Hudaify
Rabee ath Thaani 26, 1429 ~ May 2, 2008

All praise is due to Allah.  We praise Allah, and seek His help and guidance.  We turn to Him in repentance and we put all our affairs in His hands.  We seek refuge in Allah from the evil of ourselves and the evil of our bad deeds.  Indeed, whoever Allah guides, none can misguide, and whomever Allah allows to fall astray, there is none who can guide him.  I testify that there is no diety worthy of worship except Allah, the one true God who has no partner.  I also testify that Muhammad is Allah’s servant and messenger.  Oh Allah, send your abundant peace and blessing upon your servant and prophet Muhammad, his family, his companions, and whoever follows his guidance until the last day.

Oh servants of Allah, fear Allah so that you please Him.  It is the fear of Allah that purifies hearts and souls and causes you to succeed in the hereafter.  Allah says “...And whosoever fears Allâh and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get out.  And He will provide him from (sources) he never could imagine…whosoever fears Allâh and keeps his duty to Him, He will make his matter easy for him...and whosoever fears Allâh and keeps his duty to Him, He will expiate from him his sins, and will enlarge his reward.” [Surah Talaaq: Ayaah 2-5]

Fellow Muslims, through righteousness one attains all that is good and through disobedience one attains all that is evil.  You will never see anyone who disobeys Allah and is happy, or anyone who obeys Him and is miserable.  So Allah makes Jannah a reward for righteousness and avoiding evil, and He makes Jahannam a punishment for committing evil and avoiding righteousness.  Allah says “As for him who gives (in charity) and keeps his duty to Allâh and fears Him, And believes in Al-Husna.  We will make smooth for him the path of ease (goodness). But he who is greedy miser and thinks himself self-sufficient. And gives belies Al-Husna;  We will make smooth for him the path for evil;”  [Surah Layl: Ayaah 5-7]  It is Jannah that believers will receive as a reward for their good doings.  Allah says: “Then, for him who transgressed all bounds And preferred the life of this world, Verily, his abode will be Hell-fire;” [Surah Naziat: Ayaah 37-39]

Allah makes righteous deeds a means of attaining all that is good.  So let every Muslim not belittle any good deed and let him be willing to do all that is righteous whenever possible for him to do so.  Maybe a good deed that is small will weigh the heaviest in Allah’s scale and causes him to be accepted by Allah the Almighty in the hereafter.  Allah says: “Then as for him whose balance (of good deeds) will be heavy, He will live a pleasant life (in Paradise).” [Surah Qari'ah: Ayaah 6-7]  Doing more righteous deeds, even if they are small has a great effect in the hereafter.  Allah says: “Surely! Allâh wrongs not even of the weight of an atom (or a small ant), but if there is any good (done), He doubles it, and gives from Him a great reward.” [Surah Nisaa: Ayah 40]  There will be glad tidings for those who do different kinds of righteous deeds if the Muslim abides by what is obligated of and does many righteous deeds as he can then he is walking along path of salvation and success.  Indeed there are many ways of righteousness and they are all easy.

Allah says: “And march forth in the way (which leads to) forgiveness from your Lord, and for Paradise as wide as are the heavens and the earth, prepared for Al-Muttaqûn.” [Surah Ale 'Imraan: Ayah 133]  And Allah says: “Race with one another in hastening towards forgiveness from your Lord (Allâh), and Paradise the width whereof is as the width of the heaven and the earth, prepared for those who believe in Allâh and His Messengers. That is the Grace of Allâh which He bestows on whom He is pleased with. And Allâh is the Owner of Great Bounty.” [Surah Hadeed: Ayah 21]  Allah also says: “…so compete in good deeds. The return of you (all) is to Allâh; then He will inform you about that in which you used to differ.” [Surah Ma'idah: Ayah 48]

Just as the Muslim should be willing to do every righteous deed even if it is small, he is also to avoid every sin even if it seems trivial.  In this regard, the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) warned us against this in a narration saying “Beware of small sins, as they may be so many that may cause their doer to perish in disgrace.”

There are three categories of righteous deeds.  The first includes acts of worship that only benefit the person who does them, such as salaah, fasting, and the like.  The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) encouraged Muslims to exert effort in this area.  Abu Hurayrah (Radiallahu Anhu) has narrated that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “The best prayer after the obligatory one is that which is done at night.  And the best fast after those of Ramadhaan are those performed during the month of Muharram.” [Nawawi]  Anas ibn Maalik (Radiallahu Anhu) narrated that the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “Whoever prays the Fajr salaah in congregation and then engages himself in devotion until sunrise and then concludes this state of devotion with a 2 rak’ah prayer, Allah will give him the reward of Hajj and ‘Umrah.” [Tirmidhi and Tabarani]

Every day everyone is required to give charity for every joint in his body.  A two rak’ah prayer in the forenoon is enough to exempt him [as it is equivilant].  The narration states that every joint in a persons body is a blessing for which he must express gratitude to Allah by giving charity for every joint every day.  However, if a person does not have the means of giving in charity, he can just perform a two rak’ah prayer in the forenoon.  It is also narrated by Abu Darda (Radiallahu Anhu) that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “Allahs says, “Oh son of Adam! Perform a four rak’ah prayer in the beginning of the day and I will protect you the rest of the day.” [Tirmidhi]  This four rak’ah prayer is different from the Fajr salaah and it is an optional prayer.  It is narrated by Abu Dharr (Radiallahu Anhu) that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) was reported to have said “No one does a prostration to Allah but He gives him a reward and forgives him a sin.”  Abu Darda (Radiallahu Anhu) has narrated that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) once said to his companions “Shall I tell you of the best of righteous deeds in Allah’s sight and the most likely to raise your rank in the hereafter?  Such deeds which are better than spending gold and silver in charity and fighting in the cause of Allah.”  The companions said “Yes, oh Rasulullah.”  The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: “It is the remberance of Allah.” [Ahmad, Tirdmidhi, and Haakim]

Abu Hurayrah (Radiallahu Anhu) has narrated that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “Whoever says one hundred times La illaha illallah wahdahu la sharikalah lahul mulk walahul hamd wa huwa ‘ala kulli shayin qadeer will be given the reward of setting ten slaves free and a reward of one hundred good deeds.  In addition, he will have one hundred of his sins forgiven and he will be protected from the temptation of Shaytaan until the end of the day.  No one will be like him in the hereafter except another who did the same or more than that.” [Saheeh Bukhari wa Muslim] It is narrated that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “Whoever says one hundred times Subhanallahi wa bihamdi in the day no one will be better than him in the hereafter.” [Saheeh Muslim]

The best kinds of invocations is that which is said immediately after performance of the five daily prayers.  Such invocations are a means of attaining all that is good and being protected from all that is evil.  Another way of righteousness exists in the Messenger of Allah’s (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) instruction where ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Umar (Radiallahu Anhum) has narrated “Fast three days of every month, then you will have the reward of fasting an entire year.”

The second category of righteousness includes deeds and acts of worship that involves benefits for other people.  Such deeds are good for oneself as well as for others.  This is a great field of competition in which whoever wins attains real success in this life and in the hereafter.  ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Umar (Radiallahu Anhum) has narrated that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “There are forty good deeds, the best of which is giving milk in charity. Whoever does any of these deeds seeking Allah’s reward and believing in in the Prophets promise of such reward will enter Jannah.” [Bukhari] Jaabir (Radiallahu Anhu) has narrated that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “Every good deed is a charity and among the good deeds are that you smile at others and help people when they are in need.” [Ahmad]

Abu Dharr (Radiallahu Anhu) once asked the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) “Oh Rasulullah tell me about a deed that will enable me to enter Jannah.” The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said to him “Believe in Allah.“  Abu Dharr then said “Oh Rasulullah, belief requires practice to prove it.”  The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) then said to him “You can give in charity.” Abu Dharr then said “Oh Rasulullah, what if I am not that good to do such a job?“  The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said to him “Then you can support an oppressed person.”  Abu Dharr then said “Oh Rasulullah, suppose I am weak.“  The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said to him “You can work for the one who is disabled.”  Abu Dharr then replied “Oh Rasulullah, suppose I cannot do that.” The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said to him “If you do not have the means of doing that which is good, then refrain from doing what is evil.” Abu Dharr then replied “Oh Rasulullah, all that you have mentioned is easy to be done.” The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said to him “If anyone does any of the good deeds I have mentioned while seeking only Allah’s satisfaction he will be saved on the Day of Qiyaamah and will attain Jannah.“  [Ibn Hibban]

In the same regard, Abu Hurayrah (Radiallahu Anhu) narrated the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayh Wasallam) said “A prostitute was forgiven by Allah, because, passing by a panting dog near a well and seeing that the dog was about to die of thirst, she took off her shoe, and tying it with her head-cover she drew out some water for it. So, Allah forgave her because of that.“  [Saheeh Bukhari wa Muslim]  The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) also stated “Kindness with any living thing is a good deed for which one is rewarded.” [Saheeh Bukhari wa Muslim]

The third category of righteousness is to refrain from doing evil or harm to others.  The Muslim is to keep his tongue and all parts of his body from doing evil to others.  In this way, he will retain the reward of his good deeds and relieve others from his evil.  Abu Dharr (Radiallahu Anhu) asked the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) “Ya Rasulullah, which deed is the best?“  The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) replied “It is to have belief in Allah and fight in His cause.“  Abu Dharr then asked “What if I cannot fight?“ The Messenger of Allah replied “Help a laboror or work for the one who is disabled.“  Abu Dharr then said “Ya Rasulullah, suppose I cannot do that?“  The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) “Desist from doing mischief to the people. That is your own charity for your self.“  [Saheeh Bukhari wa Muslim]

Allah the Almighty says “Whosoever does a good deed, it is for his ownself, and whosoever does evil, it is against (his ownself). Then to your Lord you will be made to return.” [Surah Jathiya: Ayah 15] Allah also says: “So whosoever does good equal to the weight of an atom (or a small ant), shall see it. And whosoever does evil equal to the weight of an atom (or a small ant), shall see it.” [Surah Zalzala: Ayaah 7-8] And Allah says: “If you avoid the great sins which you are forbidden to do, We shall expiate from you your (small) sins, and admit you to a Noble Entrance (i.e. Paradise).” [Surah Nisaa: Ayah 31]

I ask Allah to benefit us all from the Quran and Sunnah and benefit us from its clear signs, judicious speech, and wisdom.  I seek the forgiveness of Allah for myself, you, and all the Muslims, so seek His forgiveness for He is the Oft Forgiver, Most Merciful.

All praise is due to Allah and I testify that there is none worthy of worship but Allah the One true God who has no partner.  Allah is the Supporter of those who are righteous.  I also testify that Muhammad is Allah’s servant and messenger.  Muhammad is the leader of those who came earlier and those who came later.  Oh Allah, send your abundant peace and blessing upon your servant and prophet Muhammad, his family, and his companions.

Oh Muslims, fear Allah, for fearing Allah is a means of felicity, while following one’s desires is way to misery.

Fellow Muslims, keep your duty to Allah in the most proper way.  Perform acts of worship in the way that the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) taught us so that you will be accepted by Allah the Almighty.  Beware of things that may render your righteous deeds void, things which happen when a person follows good deeds with bad deeds.  Beware of Shaytaan and his temptations.  Keep in mind the advice of the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) where he said “Indeed Allah obligated you to do some things, so do not neglect these obligations.  He also set laws, so do not violate them, and forbade some things, so do not approach them.  And He remained silent about other things out of His grace, so do not ask about them.“

Oh Muslims, do more righteous deeds, as Allah says “O you who have believed! Bow down, and prostrate yourselves, and worship your Lord and do good that you may be successful.” [Surah Hajj: Ayah 77]  Hold yourselves to account before you are taken to account, and let everyone turn unto Allah in repentance from every sin committed.  Mu’aadh ibn Jabal (Radiallahu Anhu) narrated the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayh Wasallam) said “Fear Allah wherever you are.  Follow a bad deed with a good one, then what is good will erase what is bad.  And have good morality with people.“

Fellow Muslims, fill your hearts with sincerity towards Allah, then your deeds will come sincere and will be accepted.  The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “Indeed Allah does not look at your appearance or your deeds, He looks at your heart.” [Saheeh Muslim]  He (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) also said “Fasting, giving in charity, attending funerals, and visiting the sick, if anyone happens to these deeds all in one day, he will enter into Jannah.“

Servants of Allah, Allah says “Allâh and His angels send Salât on the Prophet. O you who believe! Send your Salât on him, and greet him with the Islâmic way of greeting.” [Surah Ahzaab: Ayah 56]  The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) also says “Whoever invokes Allah to send a single blessing on me, Allah will send ten blessings on him in return.”

Oh Allah, bestow your favor on Muhammad and the family of Muhammad, as you have bestowed favors on Ibraheem and the family of Ibraheem.  Indeed you are Praise worthy and Glorious.  And bless Muhammad and the family of Muhammad as you have blessed Ibrahreem and the family of Ibraheem.  Indeed you are Praise worthy and Glorious.  Peace and blessings be upon them all.

Oh Allah, be pleased with his four rightly guided khulafa, Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, Uthmaan, and ‘Ali, the Prophet’s household, all the venerable companions, tabi’een, and those who followed them in righteousness until the Day of Judgment.

Oh Allah, be pleased with us along with them, out of your Favor, Mercy, and Beneficience.  Indeed you are the Most Merciful of those who show mercy.

Oh Allah, cause Islaam and the Muslims to triumph.

Oh Allah, support your religion, your book, and the sunnah of your prophet.  You are the Lord of the universe.

Oh Allah, let us recognize the truth and follow it, and let us recognize falsehood and avoid it.  Oh Allah, we seek your protection from being confused in religion.  Oh Allah, you are the Lord of the hearts, so make our hearts steadfast upon your religion…

ضوابط الاجتهاد

Sheikh ‘Abdul Rahmaan as Sudais
Rabee ath Thaani 26, 1429 ~ May 2, 2008

All praise is due to Allah, the Creator of the worlds and the Only One who knows them all.  He gave us the Shari’ah out of His mercy and bounties, with which we gain benefits and pleasure.  I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah alone who has no partner and is worthy  of submitting to His will and obeying his commands, and believing in His Oneness.  And I bear witness that Muhammad is the last messenger and servant of Allah the Almighty.  He showed us the goals and the teachings of the religion and how to deduce the rulings from it.  Oh Allah, send your peace and blessings on him and upon his household, companions, the successors, and those who follow in his footsteps until the day of Judgment seeking seeking success in the hereafter.

Oh servants of Allah, the best advice and warning is to fear Allah, Lord of the Creation.  So fear Allah, oh servants of Allah!  And know that Allah has mercy on you.  Taqwa is the best bond you can have, the best hope, and the best of all provisions.  It is the peak for those who are looking forward to attaining a high status in the hereafter.  Allah the Almighty says: “…And take a provision (with you) for the journey, but the best provision is At-Taqwa (piety, righteousness). So fear Me, O men of understanding!” [Surah Baqarah: Ayah 197]

Oh Muslims!  In a world which is controlled by changes, our faith that Allah has chosen to be the last message for humanity and the message that comprehends all aspects of life is the blessed message that includes flexibility and development.  Its principles are suitable for the changes that continually take place.  The Shari’ah comprehends all forms of change without any inefficiency or misguidance.  This is the Shari’ah of Islaam as Allah says: “…And We shall bring you (O Muhammad SAW) as a witness against these. And We have sent down to you the Book (the Qur’an) as an exposition of everything, a guidance, a mercy, and glad tidings for those who have submitted themselves (to Allâh as Muslims).”  [Surah Nahl: Ayah 89]

Brothers and sisters in imaan, there is a characteristic of this faith that contains an important point upon which all of our interests are based, and a point upon which all forms of dangers are repelled.  Only those who have understanding can comprehend it.  With this characteristic anything that threatens the Ummah will be warded off.  This characteristic is ijtehaad.  It is given great importance in Shari’ah and it is something we should resort to first in relation to any issue.  The religion of Islaam talks about the importance of ijtehaad and encourages those who seek knowledge to follow it and depend on it.

Oh Muslims, ijtehaad is one of the principles of Islaam.  There are many proofs to support this.  Trustworthy scholars know its limits and conditions.  It means to strive in order to deduce the Islaamic rulings when there is no clear proof (in the Quran and Sunnah).  Imaam al Shafi’i (Rahimahullah) stated “Every matter that befalls a Muslim has a ruling which has been revealed in the Shari’ah.  And if he did not find it in the Shari’ah then he should find it through ijtehaad.”  The one who does ijtehaad and makes a mistake will be pardoned.  This is based on the hadith where it has been narrated by ‘Amr ibn Aas that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “When a judge gives judgment and strives to know a ruling and is correct, he has two rewards. If he gives judgment and strives to know a ruling, but is wrong, he has one reward.”  [Saheeh Bukhari and Muslim]  Scholars understand from this that anyone who makes ijtehaad on secondary matters and gives a correct verdict that he will receive two rewards and if he makes ijtehaad and he is mistaken he will then receive one reward.  In the hadith, even if the scholar is wrong, the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) promised him a reward.  This reward is for ijtehaad without any punishment.  There is not even any form of blame on him.  And this is a manifestation of the principle of ease in the religion and it is a true meaning of mercy.  Imaam ash Shatibi (Rahimahullah) said “Islaamic law came to achieve people’s needs and interests in this life and in the hereafter and to ward off harm from them.”

Brothers and sisters in Islaam, when we talk about ijtehaad in a matter that does not have any clear proof in the authentic sources, we are talking about the scholars and those in authority amongst the Muslims deducing a ruling.  We are talking about those who are qualified and understand the correct situation in order to give religious rulings concerning contemperary issues.  Such people depen in their ijtehaad on the guidance of Islaamic Shari’ah and Islaamic principles and goals while fearing Allah the Almighty with insight and ability to deduce the ruling from the sources of the Quran and Sunnah.  They must have the ability to analyze the matter.  In this way, they will not be blamed as Allah the Almighty says: “…and [He] has not laid upon you in religion any hardship.”  [Surah Hajj: Ayah 78]

What we have mentioned is the basics of sound ijtehaad by which the Ummah is able to resolve many of its issues and free itself from blind imitation and lagging behind.  However, if ijtehaad is available for everyone, people follow their wishes and desires as those who are weak in knowledge will make their own ijtehaad.  This is what we reject and we should ignore such people and their opinions.  It is narrated that some of the companions (Radiallahu Anhum) said “Whoever gives a fatwa out of his own desires or based on his own opinion, he misguides and is misguided.”  May Allah protect us from being like such people.

Oh believers, as we have learned, ijtehaad is one of the characteristics of Islaam that allows space for all scholars to have their opinion.  But unfortunately there are a lot of people who use ijtehaad just to disagree with each other and they try to reveal faults and mistakes of others.  Some of them talk negatively about trustworthy, righteous scholars.  They try to put them down and degrade their position, making others doubt them and fruitlessly debating with the words of one scholar against another.  They also make the common people dislike scholars and doubt their opinions, and this only spreads chaos within the society.  Moreover, such people call others to check these scholarly opinions before taking and using them and they call others to beware of such scholars and go as far as to publisize their mistakes.  This kind of attitude is blameworthy for the public.  So what about the scholars?  Such people do not know how to disagree with others and they do not know how to make dialogue.  Moreover they forget the importance of glorifying people’s knowledge and giving their due right.  Being generous to fellow scholars is necessary, especially when they make ijtehaad where there are no original sources for that issue.  Sheikh al Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah (Rahimahullah) said “The one who does ijtehaad, whether he was a scholar, a judge, or a ruler, and does his best according to his ability, than this is what Allah Almighty had entrusted to him.  For his obedience to Allah, he deserves a reward as long as he fears Allah according to his capabilities.”

So what is the benefit for those people who try to advise others with their good intentions but they only misguide them?  This is like the proverb: “He intended to do good, but unfortunately he harmed.”  Imaam adh Dhahabi said a wonderful saying “When the verdicts of a great scholar are known to be sound and correct, then he is known to be a mujtahid, then his minor mistakes should be overlooked.  We do not consider him to be as one misguided and forget about his goodness and his other sound opinions.”  Perfection is difficult to attain but the scholar is praised for his sound opinions and good works.  Imaam Allamah Ibn al Qayyim (Rahimahullah) said “There should be forms of disagreement between people because their understanding and intentions differ.  The only thing that is blamed is when they oppress each other and transgress the limits.”  Ibn ‘Abideen (Rahimahullah) stated “You have to know that disagreement a part of mercy.  When there are lots of disagreements, then there is a lot of mercy.”

One of the fiqhi principles of ijtehaad is that hardship brings ease.  When matters become difficult, this indicates that things will soon be resolved.  We say that the darkest hour is just before the dawn.  The basic principle of the Shari’ah is to attain the peoples interests and  ward off harm from them.  In this time of hardship and complexity, the ummah needs ijtehaad to solve its problems and to comprehend disputabil matters and to find solutions for them.  Also, to comprehend the laws and purpose of the Shari’ah, that can be understood by those who have deep insights and those who seek positive results that lead to unity.  When laymen talk about the disagreements between the scholars in the media, including the forums, internet satellite channels, and so on, involving themselves in Shari’ah and fatwa, it is very dangerous.  Taking the disagreements between scholars a means of poisoning people’s hearts against each other and thus renders those who do this as being guilty of harming Islaamic principles and the Shari’ah.  They do this while they claim the Shari’ah does not fit the changes that are taking place in the world.  There are other people who try to show discord between the scholars.  Some of them spead trials and tribulations between scholars and those who follow them.  Others give religious opinions without having the correct knowledge.  Such behavior saddens the heart of the relgious people.  But the wrongdoers prefer this attitude and when the scholars disagree, they are pleased.  May Allah give them what they deserve.  Allah the Almighty says “Or do those in whose hearts is a disease, think that Allâh will not bring to light all their hidden ill-wills?” [Surah Dhariyaat: Ayah 29]  Allah the Almighty is the only one to give us help!

Oh Muslims, if the ummah understands the fiqh of ijtehaad and knows the ettiquete of disagreement and realizes that diagreement is natural, they will establish brotherhood amongst themselves and the community will be united.  Allah the Almighty says: “..but they will not cease to disagree,” [Surah Huud: Ayah 118]  By doing this they will be far removed by splitting into parties which leads to corruption.  Allah the Almighty says: “Truly! This, your Ummah is one religion, and I am your Lord, therefore worship Me (Alone).” Haafidh Imaam adh Dhahabi narrated that Younus as Sadafi said: “I did not see any saint or reasonable man like Shafi’i.  One day I debated with him and we disagreed.  Later on we met, and he took my hand and said Oh Abu Moosa, isn’t it possible that we are still brothers after disagreeing about this matter?”  Then adh Dhahabi commented saying “This is proof that ash Shafi’i has a mature mind and good understanding.”  The debaters still disagreed with each other.  This is ash Shafi’i, the one whose his name means “one who cures you from stammering.”  The more knowledge we have, the more we tolerate others.  These are the principles of love and tolerance, co relation and coexistance.  Allah the Almighty says that “Indeed the Muslims are brothers.“  I seek refuge in Allah from the accursed Shaytaan.

Do not argue with one another, lest you loose courage and become weak.  Be patient, surely Allah is with the patient.  May Allah bless the Quran and Sunnah, and benefit us from its guidance.  I seek Allah’s forgiveness for myself, you, for all Muslims, and our parents.  So seek His forgiveness and turn to Him in repentance, indeed our Lord is oft Forgiving, most Merciful, most Beloved.

All praise is due to Allah, the One who guides to everything.  Glory be to Him, for whom we seek His pleasure and for whom we exert our efforts.  I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship but Allah who has no partner.  And I bear witness that Muhammad is His prophet and messenger, the best of mankind.  He is the most sincere one in giving the ummah advice.  May Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him and his family, companions, and those who follow in his footsteps until the day of Judgment.

Oh servants of Allah, fear Allah wherever you are, keep yourselves busy in doing righteous deeds, and you will attain Allah’s pleasure and forgiveness and you will attain the highest rank.

Oh Muslim ummah, amongst the issues that are subjected to ijtehaad, about which many people get involved without sound knowledge is an issue related to one of the pillars of Islaam.  An act of worship, not an issue related to people or society.  It is an issue that is related to religion, the divine laws, and the universal message.  This is the issue of the area between Mount Safa and Marwa that needed to be reformed and redesigned.  This was so that would be more spacious and safer for the people who perform Hajj while they are making sa’ee between the two mounts.  This blessed work was done after the scholars had performed ijtehaad.  They also conducted a lot of research and referred to the Islaamic sources to derive their ruling.  Not only scholars, but historians also took part in this work as well as those specialized in geography.  These people proved that this work was acceptable.  This area is part of the valley between al Safa wal Marwa and this is the focus of the ruling.  They did this in a way so that the hearts of the believers would be satisfied and that they would accept and follow this ruling.

All the scholars in the country (of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) agreed to this, and the ruler started his work depending on the religious principle that says the ruling of the judge is binding.  He did this for the benefit of the people and in accordance of the Shari’ah and Islaamic sources and in accordance to the correct proofs from the four schools of thought.  This act is related to the public interests because it is a means of establishing ease and lifting hardship.  The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “The best of your religion is that which is easiest.” [Ahmad]  Sayyida ‘Aysha (Radiallahu Anha) stated “If the Messenger of Allah had two choices, he would take the easiest one as long as there was no harm in it.”  It is a blessed work with a blessed decision that deserves two rewards, the first a reward for ijtehaad and the second a reward because people will make dua for them.  They were guided to this by Allah’s guidance and help.  We thank the Islaamic leaders who are the Custodian of the Haram’ain and seek to serve the pilgrims and make everything easy for them and remove any hardship.  This is important because of the huge crowds that perform Hajj and ‘Umrah.  This is the blessing of the Shari’ah, which gives us space to excercise ijtehaad to make things easy for people.  The ummah should be pleased with this achievement, particularly those who perform Hajj.  Allah is the best one to help and support the Custodian of the House.  We should also consider and respect the status of the scholars and trust them and overlook their mistakes because disagreements amongst the scholars is normal throughout history, yet their hearts remain sound and love and brotherhood remains between them because they all rely on the Sunnah of Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam).

Oh Allah, we love our scholars for your sake and we revere them out of respect for you.
Oh Allah, gather us with them in the hereafter, along with the anbiya, trustworthy, shuhada, and the saaliheen.
Oh Allah, make our intentions sincere and honor us with that which you honored them.
Oh Allah, grant us guidance in our words and deeds and save us from the mistakes and sins and guide us to the truth upon which people disagree.  Indeed you guide whomever you will to the straight path.  You are the Most Beneficent, Most Merciful.

Know, may Allah have mercy on you, that you have ordered to do something which He the Almighty started Himself and then His angels as He says: “Allâh and His angels send Salât on the Prophet. O you who believe! Send your Salât on him, and greet him with the Islâmic way of greeting.” [Surah Ahzaab: Ayah 56]

Oh Allah, send your peace and blessings upon Prophet Muhammad, our leader and guider and the most beloved prophet, and upon his rightly guide khulafa, family members, and those who follow them in righteousness until the day of Judgment, and upon us with them out of your generosity and mercy.  Oh the most Merciful of the merciful.

Oh Allah, honor Islaam and Muslims.  Oh Allah, honor Islaam and Muslims.

Oh Allah, make this land and all Muslim lands secure…

Rights of the Employer and Employee

Sheikh Salaah al Budayr
Rabee ath Thaani 18, 1429 ~ April 25, 2008

All Praise is for Allah, Who has fed us and given us to drink, Who clothed us and gave us shelter. I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, the One True God without any partner, Who is our Supporter, our Sustainer, and our Creator. I bear witness that Muhammad is the servant and messenger of Allah, who is our prophet, our leader, and our beloved messenger. He advised us to hold steadfast to tawheed, the oneness of Allah, and he called us to goodness. May Allah’s peace and blessing be upon him, his family members and his companions who were the most truthful ones.

Oh Muslims, fear Allah for the successful ones are ones who fear Him, and the winners are the guided ones. He is the happiest one who prevents himself from doing evil. Allah says “O you who believe! Fear Allâh as He should be feared, and die not except in a state of Islâm.” [Surah Ale Imraan: Ayah 102]

Oh believers, not everyone of us has a property or a means of transportation or a tool with which he works. And not everyone of us masters everything or has the ability to find someone to assist him. This is why Allah the Almighty has made lawful for us renting and hiring property and equipment, and hiring others to help us in our work. To meet the needs of people, Allah has made all of this permissible and it is the sunnah of the anbiya and the saliheen. ‘Aysha (Radiallahu Anha) said “The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) and Abu Bakr (Radiallahu Anhu) hired a person from Banu Adiyy as a guide.” [Saheeh Bukhari] So fear Allah, oh servants of Allah. Abu Hurayrah (Radiallahu Anhu) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “Every prophet commissioned by Allah was a shepard over a flock of sheep.” His companions asked “Even you, oh Messenger of Allah?” He replied “Yes, I would take care of a flock of sheep for the people of Makkah.” [Saheeh Bukhari] ‘Ali (Radiallahu Anhu) said “I used to draw water from a well in exchange for a date provided that the date was fresh and good.” [Ibn Majah]  Abu Masud al Ansaar (Radiallahu Anhu) narrates that “whenever Messenger of Allah (Salallayhi Wasallam) ordered us to give in charity, we used to go to the market and work as porters and we would get a mudd which is a special type of grain and then give it in charity.“  [Saheeh Bukhari]  Those were days of poverty, and today’s some of us have hundreds of thousands.

Oh Muslims, if you are hired to do something, you have to perfectly complete it according to the agreed way and time, and you do not deserve the wage until after the completion of the task.  It is not allowed for the employee or the workers to take on a task for which they have no experience.  If he is ignorant in a field, it is not permissible for him to take on such a task.  How many have claimed to be doctors or physicians while they are not?  And how many have claimed to be craftsmen while they are not?  And how many a time do such people cause destruction and loss of property?  ‘Amr bin Shu’ayb narrated from his father who narrated from his (‘Amr’s) grandfather (Radiallahu Anhum) that the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “Whoever tries to cure somebody claiming to be a doctor while he is not, then he is responsible for his action.” [Abu Dawud]  Therefore, the worker and those who are hired for different tasks and jobs should fear Allah.  Additionally, those have private businesses should be truthful and sincere, honest and loyal, reliable and precise.  They should be aware of this loyalty and avoid delaying their tasks without any reasoning.  Know that every individual will be questioned on the Day of Judgement about the trusts given to him.

Oh Muslims, the worker deserves his wage only after the completion of his job and it is forbidden to delay giving him his wage after he has completed it.  Allah warned those who delay paying the wage to their employee as narrated by Abu Hurayrah (Radiallahu Anhu) in a divine hadith where Allah says “There are three people who I shall be their opponent on the Day of Judgment: a man who is giving something in my name and then betrays it, a man who sells of a free man as a slave and consumes the price, and the man who hires another for his labor, makes use of his service and then does not give him his wages.” [Saheeh Bukhari]  ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Umar (Radiallahu Anhum) has narrated from the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) “Give the laborer his wage before his sweat dries.“  [Ibn Majah]

Fellow Muslims!  Amongst the things the Shari’ah has made permissable for us is renting property and land.  The property owner should allow the tenant to utilize the property for the agreed time.  It is not prohibited for the property owner to throw out the tenant before the allotted time is up.  The tenant on the other hand should look after the property and should not use it for anything other than the agreed purpose.  The property is a trust in his hands until it is returned to the owner.  When the allotted time is up, the rent  becomes a debt on his head, and it is forbidden for him not to pay.  Also he may not delay returning the property when the time is up.  It is also forbidden to give the property owner problems in any way, even that which may lead to the court.  This not a right of a Muslim on another.

Oh Believers!  Some people are very poor, so sympathy should be shown to them.  Show mercy on your tenants and do not overcharge them.  Be kind and merciful.  Be patient and tolerant with them, for he who is patient with debt or helps another to pay of his debt then he will be in the shade of Allah on the day of Judgment.  And his provisions and livelihood will be blessed, for indeed Allah helps those helps his brother!  May Allah benefit us all from the Quran and Sunnah and benefit us from its signs, verses, and wisdom.  I seek the forgiveness of Allah for myself, you, and all the Muslims, so seek His forgiveness for He is the Oft Forgiver, Most Merciful.

All praise is due to Allah, for His mercy on us.  And our thanks are for Allah for His guidance and generousity upon us.  I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, the One true God without any partners.  Glory be to Him!  And I bear witness that Muhammad is the servant and messenger of Allah, who calls to seek Allah’s pleasure.  May Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him, his family members, his companions and brothers.

Oh Believers, fear Allah, for He is Ever Watchful over you.  Obey Him, and do not disobey Him.  “O you who believe! Be afraid of Allâh, and be with those who are true (in words and deeds).“  [Surah Tawbah: Ayah 119]

Fellow Muslims, it is forbidden to rent or hire something for that which is unlawful, such as hiring people for wailing at the time of a death, hiring music or singers, hiring smoking pipes, and dealing and distributing drugs and intoxicants.  The property owner is forbidden in renting his property for singing or music purposes and for gambling purposes.  It is also unlawful to rent one’s property who uses it for innovation in the deen, for sorcery, and for all indecent acts.  Whoever helps such a group of people, then they are from them.  So fear Allah, oh beleivers, and stay from all unlawful matters, for he who leaves out something for the sake of Allah then Allah will compensate him with something far better.

Know that Allah has enjoined upon you something which He started Himself, then His angels, and then you, saying: “Allâh and His angels send Salât on the Prophet. O you who believe! Send your Salât on him, and greet him with the Islâmic way of greeting.” [Surah Ahzaab: Ayah 56]

Oh Allah!  Send your peace and blessings on your beloved Prophet Muhammad continously until the Day of Judgement. Oh Allah, honor him and increase his status and glory.  Honor him, oh Allah, and be pleased with his household and companions, the Muhajireen and the Ansaar and upon us with them, oh Most Merciful, Oft Forgiver.

Oh Allah, honor Islaam and Muslims.  Oh Allah, honor Islaam and Muslims.

Oh Allah, make this land secure and for the rest of the Muslim countries…

Everyone Is a Shepard and Responsible for his Flock

Sheikh Usaamah Khayyat
Rabee ath Thaani 18, 1429 ~ April 25, 2008

All Praise is due to Allah, we praise Him and we seek His forgiveness and assistance. We seek refuge in Allah from the evil in ourselves and the evil of our actions. Whoever Allah guides none can misguide, and whomever Allah lets be led astray none can guide. And I bear witness that there is no rivalry to Allah the One without any partners. And I bear witness that our Master and our Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) is His servant and messenger. Oh Allah, we ask you to send our salutations and prayers upon Your servant and messenger Muhammad, and his family and companions.

Oh Believers, fear Allah and be aware of Him. Allah says: “And have fear of the Day when you shall be brought back to Allâh. Then every person shall be paid what he earned, and they shall not be dealt with unjustly.“  [Surah Baqarah: Ayah 281]

Oh Muslims, in explaining the obligatory responsibility upon every member of the Muslim community, the role of the man and the woman is mentioned as those whose responsibilty that they cannot escape, whether it is for those who are under their care.  ‘Abdullah ibn Masud (Radiallahu Anhu) has narrated that he heard the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) say “Each one of you is a shepherd. And each of you will be asked about your flock. A ruler also is a shepherd and he will be asked about his flock. And every man is a shepherd to his family. And every woman is the custodian of her husband’s house and his children. Thus each one of you is a shepherd and each one will be asked about his flock.” [Saheeh Bukhari and Muslim]

Specifically, a man’s responsibility over his household entails that he provides for the necessary needs of his family and providing them with that which will keep them happy and successful in this world as well as in the hereafter.  Thus, not only does he provide them that which is necessary, but he grants them that which is virtuous and prohibits them from engaging in harmful deeds.  From the greatest responsibilities which he is entrusted with is he upholds the prayer and is consistant with it.  Allah Ta’ala says: “And enjoin As-Salât on your family, and be patient in offering them. We ask not of you a provision; We provide for you. And the good end is for the Muttaqûn.” [Surah Taha: Ayah 132]  It is  only unacceptable to anyone with sound reasoning that a person who ordains prayer as a means of correcting and disciplining his children and his family that he becomes neglectful and ignores the components that will lead them to a life of failure and misery.  Allah says: “Oh you who believe, Protect yourselves and your families from a fire whose fuel is men and stones.” [Surah Tahreem: Ayah 6]  Allah has put over Jahannam angels who protect it, who do not disobey Him, but rather they obey every command of His.

Every parent ought to be alert and pay attention to these warnings, which if they fail to take heed to they only risk the failure of their children’s future and the threat of their children facing a punishment in the hereafter.  Some parents are negligent and leave their children behind closed doors in their rooms not knowing what they are doing, what web sites they are visiting, who they are chatting with in chat rooms or on the phone, or what pictures they are looking at.  This is in fact negligence and allowing our children to be exposed to threats and being irresponsible towards them.  What is required is that parents provide a balanced and wise approach in safeguarding and monitoring their children’s activities.  The one who falls short of fulfilling his responsibility, then he be held responsible with Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala) and indeed Allah is not unjust with His servants.  As far as his role in the community where he is responsible for bringing up upright children who contribute positively to the society and not become a burden in it, he needs to pay attention to raising his children from these angles as well.

As for the woman, she has been entrusted with the responsibilty of the care of her children and the house of her husband.  It is neccessary that she makes sure that her children are provided with the education and an environment that is needed for children to grow up as upright adults.  A mother ought to not cover up and overlook her child’s mistakes and weaknesses, thinking that her actions are beneficial to them.  Rather, she is only contributing to their destruction and misguidance.  Sometimes parents, especially the mother, resorts to protecting their children from accountability and even if their children fall into something that is clearly wrong and shameful.  They fail to see that this action can become monstrous later in their life.  Similarly, raising children in a good environment and granting them the neccesary education increases the chances of them becoming productive adults.  These children will also in turn supplicate for their parents.

If a parent does raise their children to the best of their ability and spend from their wealth on them, and the children still fall into the path misguidance, then indeed the parents are free.  Surely Allah does not hold one accountable for that which we are not able deliver upon.  We find great comfort in the story of Nuuh (Alayhi Salaam) when he had warned his people of a great flooding that would befall them, and his son replied by saying that “I will betake myself for refuge to a mountain that shall protect me from the water.“  [Surah Huud: Ayah 43]  But Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala) sent down the rain, and the flooding overwhelmed them and his son was drowned.

Oh you Believe, do not try to deceive Allah and His Messenger and let them down on the trust that has been bestowed upon you.  Oh Muslims, strive to live up to your responsibilities as it has been ordained by Allah and in the Sunnah.  With this we conclude, and I seek the forgiveness of Allah for myself and for all the Muslims.  Indeed Allah is the most Forgiving, most Merciful!

All praise is due to Allah, whose bounties and blessings cannot be counted.  I bear witness that there is no rival to Allah and I bear witness that Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) is his servant and messenger.  May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon His servant and messenger, and the family of his servant and messenger and all those who fall his footsteps until the day of Judgment.

Oh servants of Allah, it has been narrated by Abu Hurayrah (Radiallahu Anhu) that Allah’s Messenger (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) talked about Friday and said:  “There is an hour on Friday and if a Muslim gets it while offering Salat (prayer) and asks something from Allah Ta’alaa, then Allah will definitely meet his demand“. [Bukahri and Muslim]  So brothers and sisters, let us take the opportunity to seek out this hour and supplicate in it.   During this time supplicate to Allah that which is good for us in this world and that which is good for our children.

Oh brothers, for those of you who are in Saudi Arabia, the King has requested for all of you to partake in the prayer for rainfall on Monday.  And we ask Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala) bring down rain and quench the thirst and provide us with this resource which is benefical for our lives.  With this we conclude and send our salutations upon the Nabi (Salallahu alayhi Wasallam).  Indeed Allah has said: “Allâh and His angels send Salât on the Prophet. O you who believe! Send your Salât on him, and greet him with the Islâmic way of greeting.” [Surah Ahzaab: Ayah 56]

Oh Allah, confer your peace and blessings on our Prophet Muhammad, and be pleased with his four rightly guided khulafa, Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, Uthmaan, and ‘Ali and those who have followed their footsteps and upon us along with them out of your Mercy.  Indeed you are the Most Merciful.

Oh Allah we ask You to bring honor and victory to Islaam and the Muslimeen.

Oh Allah we ask You to rectify our leadership and show them the path of righteousness.

Oh Allah we ask of You to give prominence to the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah….

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The Concept of Submission

Delivered by Sheikh Saud ash Shuraim
Rabee ath Thaani 12, 1429 ~ April 18, 2008

Right Click > Save: Khutbah Audio in Arabic

All praise be to Allah who has revealed the Book to His servant and has not placed therein any crookedness so as to warn of a severe chastisement from Him. And give glad tidings to the righteous believers who do good deeds that they shall have a good reward. [Surah Kahf: Ayaah 1-3] I bear witness that there is no God but Allah, the One True God who has no partner in worship. It is Allah who has honored the children of Adam, carried them on land and sea, provided them with good and pure things, and elevated them above many of His creatures. I bear witness that Muhammad is Allah’s servant and messenger and the best human being. He left us on the right path and only evil people deviate from this path. May Allah’s peace and blessings be upon Muhammad, his family, companions, and those who follow him until the Day of Judgment.

Fellow Muslims, fear Allah and know that He watches over you wherever you are. Surely, nothing in the earth or in the heavens in hidden from Allah. It is He who shaped you in the wombs of your mothers as He pleases. There is no God but Him, the Almighty, the All Wise.

Oh servants of Allah, it is Allah who created the heavens, the earth, and all that they contain by His wisdom, knowledge, and justice. It is Allah who provides the universe with human beings, jinn, animals, plants, and even inanimate objects. Allah created a universe and all things therein for one purpose only, which is to worship Him alone. It is the duty of all creation to accept the existence of Allah and to acknowledge His Sovereignty. Worshiping Allah alone means to submit to Him, to be obedient to Him, and also to follow the straight path so that His religion is established and His laws are obliged. It is the sole duty of mankind to establish the religion of Allah on earth, and this can be achieved through uttering belief in the Oneness of Allah and putting this belief into practice. Human beings can only achieve total submission to Allah if they have within themselves humility and love for Him. Submission is the core and essence of the religion. Indeed religion in Allah’s sight means submission to Him alone. Allah says “Truly, the religion with Allâh is Islâm…” [Surah Ale 'Imraan: Ayah 19] Allah also says “And whoever seeks a religion other than Islâm, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers.” [Surah Ale 'Imraan: Ayah 85] Submission is the purpose of creation for Allah says “And I (Allâh) created not the jinn and mankind except that they should worship Me (Alone).” [Surah Dhariyaat: Ayah 56] Allah also says “Did you think that We had created you in play (without any purpose), and that you would not be brought back to Us?” [Surah Muminuun: Ayah 115]

Fellow Muslims, Allah says “Do they not look in the dominion of the heavens and the earth and all things that Allâh has created…” [Surah 'Araaf: Ayah 185] Allah also criticizes a certain group of people who do not meditate on His creation of the universe. Allah says to such people “And how many a sign in the heavens and the earth they pass by, while they are averse therefrom, And most of them believe not in Allâh except that they attribute partners unto Him.” [Surah Yusuf: Ayah 105-106]

Oh fellow Muslims, do you not see the sky and the stars it contains and other celestial bodies Allah created just for the sake of man? Do you not see the earth, and the land, gardens, mountains, and seas it contains? After all these bounties, humans wrongfully ascribe deities to Allah and associate others with Him in worship. Glory be to Allah, the Creator of all. It is amazing that humans are given bounties and blessings and then they are ungrateful to Allah. You have been given all that you have asked of Allah. Allah says “And He gave you of all that you asked for, and if you count the Blessings of Allâh, never will you be able to count them. Verily! man is indeed an extreme wrong-doer..” [Surah Ibraheem: Ayah 34] Man was indeed unjust and ignorant. Woe to man! How ungrateful indeed. Man is ever so miserly. Man is exceedingly contentious. Nay, but man transgresses, considering himself as self-sufficient. Man asks when is the Day of Resurrection. Man is in great loss.

Allah also subjected to you all that is in the heavens and the earth. All is from Him. The angels praise their Lord and seek forgiveness for those on earth. Surely, He is the most Forgiving, most Merciful. Even though Allah the Almighty created everything for mankind, many turn away from him. People busy themselves with the affairs of this world and ignore the hereafter. People are busy with things which will inevitably end, while the hereafter lasts for eternity. Man prefers worldly pleasures and his desires over what Allah the Almighty has enjoined on him. This is so, despite the fact that Allah honored mankind and preferred him over all creation. Allah the Almighty bestowed upon mankind all kinds of blessings, whether hidden or apparent. He the Almighty created a physical beauty and wonder of the human body. After all these blessings, man becomes arrogant and is ignorant of Allah and transgresses against Him. Man is also ungrateful to Allah the Almighty and that is why Allah describes mankind as wrongdoers and ungrateful creatures. Mankind has been blessed with all these bounties from Allah and should be grateful to Him instead of disobeying Him.

When we look at this world and see Allah’s creation, we that man is honored and given priority over all creation as Allah chose mankind to be His representative on earth. Allah made this universe subservient to mankind, to provide him with his needs and trusted mankind to worship Allah and look after the world by enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong. Allah even made some angels subservient to mankind. Some record man’s deeds, while others protect people. Some angels are entrusted to regulate the wind. One of the most important tasks angels are entrusted with is to seek forgiveness with Allah for the sins of mankind. Indeed all creation except for mankind submits to Allah and is totally obedient to Allah the Almighty. Another exception is the devils from amongst the jinn and mankind as well as certain types of animals. The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) has said “Kill a certain of lizard because it used to blow on the fire in which the Prophet Ibraheem (Alayhi Salaam) was put.” [Ahmad]

Even if the creation is disobedient to Allah, it never reaches the degree to which mankind is disobedient. The peak of disobedience to Allah the Almighty were the words of Fir’awn when he said “I am your Lord, so worship me.” Another group of people say that the Prophet ‘Isa (Alayhi Salaam) is the son of Allah, while others believe in the Trinity. Other human beings say that they can give and take life. The people of the Prophet Musa (Alayhi Salaam) asked him to make them a god like the people had. Other people say that the Quran is made of human words and some say it is just stories of the past. Other says that Allah’s hand is restricted. Some say that the angels who are Allah’s servants are Allah’s daughters. So what about those who say Allah is poor while we are rich? The matter worsens when some people say that Islaamic law is not suitable for all times and places. There are also some secularists who say that religion and the state should be separated while others say that religion is for Allah and politics is for humans to deal with. Some people describe the religion as backward and the Islaamic punishment as barbaric and that Islaam wrongs women. Other people feel that freedom of a woman lies in removing the hijaab and living an indecent lifestyle and disobeying Allah’s laws. Such people want women to be means of seduction and a cheap commodity. They also want to see micheif spread in the Muslim communities. These are the attitudes of some people.

Let us take a look at the attitude of Shaytaan. Did Shaytaan say anything like what was mentioned? All he did was promise Allah that he would seduce and trap human beings and invite them to evil. He promised Allah that he would misguide and take them to Hell with him. Shaytaan’s big mistake was that he preferred his race over the human race. Allah the Almighty called Shaytaan to prostrate to Adam (Alayhi Salaam), but he refused, and became arrogant and disobeyed Allah. He also misguided some people by whispering to them that he knew what they do not know. He also told them that he fears Allah because he is severely in punishment.

How disobedient and arrogant man is. Allah says “…Can they expect anything but the way of the previous nations? So no change will you find in Allâh’s Sunnah (way of dealing), and no turning off will you find in Allâh’s Sunnah (way of dealing).” [Surah Fatir: Ayah 43] Allah stresses the fact that are some people are disobedient to Him and they turn away from Him and dislike to submit to His will, even though He created them and bestowed all kinds of blessings on them. In this regard Allah the Almighty says “See you not that whoever is in the heavens and whoever is on the earth, and the sun, and the moon, and the stars, and the mountains, and the trees, and Ad-Dawâb moving (living creatures, beasts), and many of mankind prostrate themselves to Allah? But there are many (men) on whom the punishment is justified. And whomsoever Allâh disgraces, none can honour him. Verily! Allâh does what He wills.” [Surah Hajj: Ayah 18] This verse shows that many people are disobedient to Allah the Almighty and are arrogant. Allah says “And if you obey most of those on the earth, they will mislead you far away from Allâh’s Path…” [Surah An'aam: Ayah 116]

Fellow Muslims, we should achieve one purpose in this life which is to feel the worship of Allah, to submit ourselves totally to Him. We should also acknowledge that some of us are negligent and disobedient to Allah the Almighty. Moreover, we should confess that we may admire ourselves, that we may do a small good deed and we may become proud of this in front of our community and we might try to show off. Mankind tries to convince himself that he is righteous and he also tries to prove this to his society. He thinks that he does not need anyone to correct or advise him. He feels he is doing his duty by performing prayer and so on. In this manner he becomes conceited. We should know all this and we should belittle our righteousness even it seems to be good so that we can be humble.

Indeed, even if our worship reaches a great degree, there is a large difference between our worship of Allah and the submission of other creations like the angels, animals, and inanimate objects which perfectly submit to Allah the Almighty. There are some examples to show the huge difference between us and other creations. One example is of the hoopoe bird of Prophet Sulaimaan (Alayhi Salaam). Allah the Almighty implanted in the bird the creed of the Oneness and the ability to criticize others who associate partners in worship to Him. When the hoopoe bird hovered over the people of the Queen Sheba, it found that the people there were prostrating to the sun. It then rejected this practice and knew this was wrong because it contradicted the principle of the Oneness of Allah. For this reason the hoopoe went to the Prophet Sulaimaan (Alayhi Salaam) and reported everything to him. It acknowledged the Oneness of Allah and Allah says about this “I found her and her people worshiping the sun instead of Allâh, and Shaytaan has made their deeds fair-seeming to them, and has barred them from (Allâh’s) Way, so they have no guidance, so they do not worship (prostrate themselves before) Allâh, Who brings to light what is hidden in the heavens and the earth, and knows what you conceal and what you reveal, none has the right to be worshiped but He, the Lord of the Supreme Throne!” [Surah Naml: Ayaah 24-26]

We find some examples in some inanimate objects. Allah implanted in some objects anger when His laws are breeched. The Prophet of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) was sitting with his companions (Radiallahu Anhum) and a funeral passed by and he (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “The deceased may be one of two; it may be that he is comforted and finds relief or it may be that the people find relief when he dies because of the evil he used to commit.” The companions asked “Who is the one who is comforted and who is the one whom people will be relieved when he dies?” The Prophet of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) replied “When the believer dies he will be comforted because he will receive Allah’s mercy, while when the evil person dies the people as well as the animals and plants will be relieved of him.” [Saheeh Bukhari]

Fellow Muslims, take note of how trees, plants, and animals are harmed by the evil of evildoers and what they do in the earth, how they spread mischief and corruption. Indeed when human beings commit evil this does not only effect the other people, it also effects nature at large. Even animals feel joy and happiness when they see the children of Adam obeying Allah and doing righteous deeds. They are happy and ask Allah to forgive the people. They also ask Allah to bestow His blessing on them. Listen to the narration of the Prophet (Salallahi Alayhi Wasallam) where he says “Allah’s angels, the ants in its nests, even the whale in the depths of the sea ask Allah to send his blessing on the one who teaches people all that is good and beneficial.” [Tirmidhi]

Indeed animals and all creatures fear the day of Judgment. They are afraid of events yet to take place on that day. The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “Every creature will be watchful on Fridays because they are expecting the establishment of the day of Judgment.” [Ahmad] It was also narrated in the hadeeth that the rooster holds itself in submission to Allah. The rooster invites to success and all that is good. The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “Do not insult the rooster because it calls people to go to prayer.” [Ahmad and Abu Dawud] The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) also said, “Every Arabian horse will be allowed to supplicate to Allah every dawn for its owner. It will say Oh Allah, bless me for this owner and make me one of his best property.” [Ahmad] The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said that Allah will accept the supplication of this horse.

Even the ants constitutes a great nation that glorifies Allah and remembers Him even though they are so small. About ants Allah says “Till, when they came to the valley of the ants, one of the ants said: “O ants! Enter your dwellings, lest Sulaimân and his hosts should crush you, while they perceive not.” [Surah Naml: Ayah 18] The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “There was an ant that bit a prophet, then this prophet ordered that the whole nest be burned. Allah then revealed to him Why do you burn great entire nation who glorifies Allah?” [Saheeh Bukhari] Listen to what Allah says about the trees, “And the herbs (or stars) and the trees both prostrate themselves.” [Surah Rahmaan: Ayah 6] The Prophet (Salallahu ALayhi Wasallam) said “When a person who performs Hajj or ‘Umrah does talbiya everything in the universe on his left and right including trees, stones, and rock will make talbiya along with him.” The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) also said that near the day of Judgment there will be a great war between the Muslims and disbelievers, and even the trees and stones will express their anger, and speak out to the Muslims saying there is a disbeliever behind me.

Look at the creation we have talked about today and then think about the mountains. Think about how the mountains glorify Allah and submit themselves to Him. The mountains fear Allah and fall down in awe of Him when others associate partners with Him in worship. Allah says “Whereby the heavens are almost torn, and the earth is split asunder, and the mountains fall in ruins, That they ascribe a son to the Most Gracious. But it is not suitable for the Most Gracious that He should beget a son.” [Surah Maryam: Ayaah 90-92] Mountains felt awe when ordered to establish the trust of Allah’s religion on earth! Also remember the mountains on which Musa (Alayhi Salaam) spoke to Allah the Almighty. When Musa (Alayhi Salaam) asked Allah to let him see Him, Allah told him to look at the mountains. Musa (Alayhi Salaam) fell unconscious when the mountain fell down. When Musa (Alayhi Salaam) got up, he declared his total faith in Allah the Almighty. Regarding this story Allah says “…So when his Lord appeared to the mountain, He made it collapse to dust, and Mûsa fell down unconscious…” [Surah 'Araaf: Ayah 143] These are mountains which consist of rocks and stones, nevertheless they fear Allah. Allah says about the mountains “Had We sent down this Qur’ân on a mountain, you would surely have seen it humbling itself and rendt asunder by the fear of Allâh. Such are the parables which We put forward to mankind that they may reflect.” [Surah Hashr: Ayah 21]

It is amazing to see a human being which is just a piece of flesh and yet he is harder than rock and stone and his heart is harder than the hardest rock. How can human beings listen to Allah’s words and then turn away and become arrogant? Turning their backs on those words as if they had not listened to anything. Allah says “Have they not traveled through the land, and have they hearts wherewith to understand and ears wherewith to hear? Verily, it is not the eyes that grow blind, but it is the hearts which are in the breasts that grow blind.” [Surah Hajj: Ayah 46]

Fellows Muslims, I ask Allah to bless you and me with the noble Quran and to benefit us from what it includes of clear signs and judicious speech. This is what I say and I ask Allah forgiveness for me, you, and all the Muslims. So ask Him to forgive you and seek His protection from Shaytaan, indeed He is the Most Merciful, Oft Forgiving.

Praise be to Allah for His beneficence and then to Him for His support and favors. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, the One God who has no partner. Exalted is His standing! I also testify that our Prophet Muhammad is His servant and messenger. May the abundant peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, his household, and companions.

Fellow Muslims, before the mission of the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam), a wolf gave an amazing speech to a shepard saying that sustenance is from Allah the Almighty. This wolf also ordered the shepard to fear Allah and said that he knows about the mission of the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam). It is narrated in the hadith that a wolf attacked a goat and took it. Then the shepard ran after it to get the goat back. The wolf told the shepard to fear Allah saying how can you take provisions which Allah gave me? The shepard could not believe his ears because the wolf spoke to him. The wolf said to the shepard let me tell you something else that will cause you to be even more amazed. I feel like I am watching Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) in Madeenah telling his people about the past nations. The companions (Radiallahu Anhum) wondered in amazement that a wolf could speak and the Prophet of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasalaam) said, “I believe it, and so do Abu Bakr and ‘Umar.“

Oh Muslims, know that Allah has commanded you to convey peace and blessings on His prophet.  Allah says: “Allâh and His angels send Salât on the Prophet. O you who believe! Send your Salât on him, and greet him with the Islâmic way of greeting.” [Surah Ahzaab: Ayah 56]

Oh Allah, confer your peace and blessings on our Prophet Muhammad, and be pleased with his four rightly guided khulafa, Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, Uthmaan, and ‘Ali who judged according to truth and justice, and all of his companions, and all of us with them out of Your Forgiveness, Beneficence, and Mercy. Indeed You are the Most Merciful….

Merits of the Beloved

Sheikh Saalih aal Taalib
Rabee ath Thaani 5, 1429 ~ April 11, 2008

All the praises and thanks be to Allah, the Lord of the ‘Alamîn, The Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. The Only Owner of the Day of Recompense. [Surah Fatiha: Ayaah 1-3] We praise Him, beseech Him for help and forgiveness, and seek refuge in Him from the evil of ourselves and from our bad deeds. Indeed whoever Allah guides, he can never go astray; and whoever Allah allows to go astray, there is none to guide him. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, the One God who has no partners. And I testify that Muhammad is Allah’s servant and messenger. He brought all that is good and warned against all that is evil. May Allah’s peace and blessings be on him, his family, his companions, and all those who follow them in righteousness until the day of Judgment.

Fellow Muslims, fear Allah and keep in mind that He watches over you, so submit yourselves to Allah and avoid all that He forbids. Allah says “Oh you who believe! Fear Allâh and keep your duty to Him. And let every person look to what he has sent forth for the morrow, and fear Allâh. Verily, Allâh is All-Aware of what you do.” [Surah Hashr: Ayah 18] The fear of Allah is the means of attaining the good things of this life and overcoming its troubles. Allah says “…And whosoever fears Allâh and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get out..” [Surah Talaaq: Ayah 2]

Our topic today is a topic that every Muslim likes and enjoys talking about. It is about the best character and personality which is the Prophet’s (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) character. We intend by talking about the Prophet’s (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) character to open our hearts up for the love of Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) and renew our faith and sincerity to him. The Prophet’s (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) character has so many noble aspects and so we may not be able to include them all today.

Fellow Muslims, when we talk about the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) we seek to increase our faith in him and strengthen our love for him in addition to other things we are required to achieve as true Muslims. All this is intended to make us follow the Prophet’s (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) teachings, abide by what he enjoined, and avoid what he had forbidden. Though we believe that the Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) is a human we also believe that Allah the Almighty created him with the noblest character and the best of appearances. The Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) has the noblest lineage and was raised in the best of Allah’s lands. The Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) is the best person and belonged to the best of tribes which was Quraysh. Makkah, where the Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam), is the most beloved place to Allah and all people. Muhammad ibn ‘Abdullah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) is Allah’s Prophet. He is the most honorable human of whom hearts are filled with love towards. May Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him.

It is the Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) who used to have the best of appearances and the noblest character. Indeed Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) is free of all imperfections. Umm Ma’bad described him saying

“A great light is shining on his face, he has a lovely countenance, the nobility of his character is clear, he is very smart, and has a good physique. He is black haired and black eyed. He appears to wear kohl on his eyes. He doesn’t have a large waist. His head is not large. He has long eyelashes. He has a soft voice. He has a long neck. He has a heavy beard. He has a long, rounded, and knitted eyebrows. He is clear. He isn’t talkative or over silent. His words flow like beads on a string. He is of a medium height, not very tall, nor very short.“

‘Ali (Radiallahu Anhu) described the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) saying

“His face was pink and rosy, and black eyed with long eyelashes. He had a flowing gait as if he was walking along a straight path. If he turned around, all his body would turn. Between his shoulders was the seal of prophethood. He was very generous. He was very courageous. He was the most truthful and honest. He was of the sweetest temper. When you see him for the first time you may fear him, and if you mix with him you would love him. If you are asked to describe him, you would say, I didn’t see anyone like him ever before and I think there is none like him.“

Abu Tufayl (Radiallahu Anhu) said:

“He had a fair and lovely countenance.“

Anas ibn Maalik (Radiallahu Anhu) said:

“He was very generous. His face was pink and rosy. He was black haired, except for a few gray hairs on his cheeks.“

Baraa’ (Radiallahu Anhu) said:

“He used to have wide shoulders and long hair. If he wore red clothing no one would see anyone more beautiful than him. His countenance had shining light as that of the moonlight.“

Jaabir (Radiallahu Anhu) said:

“The Prophet’s (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) laughter was just smiles. He used to appear as if he is wearing kohl while he is not. In the eve of the Battle of Badr I saw him. He was wearing a red shirt. I kept looking at him and at the moon. Actually in my eyes he was more beautiful than the moon.“

Abu Hurayrah (Radiallahu Anhu) said:

“I have never seen anything more beautiful than the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam). His face was so shining as that of the sunlight. No one was more faster than the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) in walking. It would seem as though the earth was being paved for him. When walking with him we would get tired while he was okay.“

Ibn ‘Abbas (Radiallahu Anhu) said

“The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) had pearly white teeth. Whenever he spoke you would feel like light was emitting from his teeth.“

Anas (Radiallahu Anhu) said:

“I didn’t touch silk or cloth softer than the Prophet’s (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) skin. And I didn’t smell a fragrance nicer than that of the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam).“

When the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) came to Madeenah people came out to recieve him. Amongst the people was ‘Abdullah ibn Salaam, who came out to see the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam). At that time ‘Abdullah ibn Salaam was Jewish scholar. ‘Abdullah ibn Salaam said, “When I saw the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) I realized that he would never be a liar.“

These are a few features of our Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) that prove that he had the best appearance. As far as the morals of the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) he used to have the noblest character in this regard. It is enough that Allah the Almighty testified to his morality by saying “And verily, you (O Muhammad SAW) are on an exalted (standard of) character.” [Surah Qalaam: Ayah 4] In the same context the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “My God cared for me, and how good Allah’s care is.” This is why the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) set the best examples of nobility in all regards.

All the time you find the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) optimistic and easy. He used to be lenient with people. He never uttered a lewd word. He was never harsh, nor did he exaggerate in praising others. Never did he criticize, nor did he make fun of others, nor violate their privacy. He used to be gentle to people and overlook their mistakes. Patience was a distinctive manner of his character. Whenever the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) had to make a choice between two things, he would choose the easiest unless it was a sin. If it was a sin, the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) used to keep himself away from it. Never would the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) retaliate except that when Allah’s law was violated, a case in which he would be in rage for the sake of Allah.

The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) had a great kindness and generosity. He used to give in charity without fearing poverty, so the Prophet’s (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) generosity used to be something more flowing than a continuous stream of fresh water. The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) used to establisj justice all the way. The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) used to have the highest degree of modesty. He was the most truthful and honest. Before the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) took his mission he was known as the most truthful and honest person. The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) was the bravest. He overcame all hardships and difficulties he faced and proved to be steadfast. ‘Ali (Radiallahu Anhu) said “The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) was the most modest.“

Whenever the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) was upset, it would show on his face. The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) would not stare at people. He was modest, soft, and humble. He used to visit the poor and sit with them. He used to mix with the people. He would come to his companions. He would hate for anyone to stand up for him in respect like the standing for kings. ‘Aysha (Radiallahu Anha) said “The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) used to clean his footwear, fix his torn clothes, milk his goat, and help in house burdens like anyone.” The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) would fulfill his promise and keep good relation with his relatives. The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) would have a lot of mercy and compassion towards people. In this regard, Allah the Almighty says “Verily, there has come unto you a Messenger from amongst yourselves. It grieves him that you should receive any injury or difficulty. He is anxious over you, for the believers (he SAW is) full of pity, kind, and merciful.” [Surah Tawbah: Ayah 128] Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) was a mercy that made all peoples heart meet on loving him. May Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him.

Allah says “And by the Mercy of Allâh, you dealt with them gently…” [Surah Ale 'Imraan: Ayah 159] The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) used to be a sincere friend and would smile at others. Jaabir (Radiallahu Anhu) said “The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) never prevented me from meeting him since I accepted Islam. Nor did he meet me but that he smiled.” The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) used to renounce the worldly pleasures though they were accessible for him. He wasn’t attached to the pleasures of this world until death. When he died, his armor was being mortgaged with a Jew for a sum of money he borrowed to satisfy his family needs. He (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) used to say “Oh Allah, provide the family of Muhammad just with that which satisfies their basic needs.” [Saheeh Bukhari and Muslim] ‘Aysha (Radiallahu Anha) said “Never did the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) eat his fill for three consecutive days until he died.” She also said “The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) did not leave property behind to be inherited.” She also said “He used to have a mattress of leather stuffed with straw to sleep on.“

The Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) used to set the best example of the fear of Allah. He used to stand in prayer at night. He used to shed tears out of fear of Allah. He used to keep standing in prayer until his feet were swollen. It would be said to him “Why do you exert yourself in devotion while you had your sins ,past and future, forgiven?” He used to reply “Shall I not be a grateful servant of Allah?” [Saheeh Bukhari and Muslim]

‘Abdullah ibn Masud (Radiallahu Anhu) narrates that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) once told him to read. Abdullah ibn Masud (Radiallahu Anhu) said the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said to me “I like listening to the Quran from others.” So ‘Abdullah ibn Masud (Radiallahu Anhu) embarked on reciting Surah Nisaa until he reached the ayah “How (will it be) then, when We bring from each nation a witness and We bring you (O Muhammad SAW) as a witness against these people?” [Ayah 41] Hereupon the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said to ‘Abdullah ibn Masud (Radiallahu Anhu) “Stop here.” ‘Abdullah ibn Masud (Radiallahu Anhu) said “When I turned my eyes up to the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) I found tears falling down his face.” [Saheeh Bukhari and Muslim] This is our beloved Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) and such a few aspects of his character.

Words fail to express the nobility of the Prophet’s (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) character. It is the duty of Muslims to adhere to the teachings of the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) and follow his guidance. Indeed the world does not know anyone like the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam). Indeed we inherited from the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) the heritage that we have to take pride in and introduce to all civilizations. Allah says “Indeed in the Messenger of Allâh (Muhammad SAW) you have a good example to follow for him who hopes for (the Meeting with) Allâh and the Last Day and remembers Allâh much.” [Surah Ahzaab: Ayah 21]

Oh servants of Allah, I ask Allah to bless you and me with the noble Quran and to benefit us from what it includes of clear signs and judicious speech. This is what I say and I ask Allah’s forgiveness for you, me, and all Muslims. So ask Him to forgive you and seek His protection from Shaytaan, indeed He is the Most Merciful, Oft Forgiving.

All the praises and thanks be to Allah, the Lord of the ‘Alamîn, The Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. The Only Owner of the Day of Recompense. [Surah Fatiha: Ayaah 1-3] I bear witness that there is God worthy of worship except Allah, the True God who has no partner in worship. Allah is the King and the Clear Truth. And I bear witness that Muhammad is Allah’s servant and messenger. He is the most truthful and the most honest. May Allah’s peace and blessing be upon Muhammad, his family, companions, and all those who followed them in righteousness until the day of Judgment.

Fellow Muslims, Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) has a great position is Allah’s sight. So Allah made him the best human. Allah selected Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) from amongst all humans for His mission. It is Allah who recieved Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) in the heavens when he ascended. In this regard, you can read Allah’s statement “By the star when it goes down, (or vanishes). Your companion (Muhammad SAW) has neither gone astray nor has erred. Nor does he speak of (his own) desire. It is only a Revelation revealed. He has been taught (this Qur’ân) by one mighty in power [Jibril].” [Surah Najm: Ayaah 1-5] In Jerusalem, Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) led all other Prophets of Allah in salaah. Then he ascended to the heavens until he reached the lote tree, a place very near to Allah the Almighty’s Throne. Above the heavens Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) met Allah and asked Him reduce the number of the obligatory prayers and Allah responded to his request. In this situation, Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said to Musa (Alayhi Salaam) “Oh Musa, I kept asking Allah to reduce the number of the obligatory daily prayers until I felt ashamed of Him.” It is Allah who cleansed Prophet Muhammad’s (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) heart from all that is evil, forgave his sins, and exalted his mention. Allah says “Have We not opened your breast for you (O Muhammad (SAW))? And removed from you your burden, Which weighed down your back? And have We not raised high your fame?” [Surah Sharh: Ayaah 1-4]

Allah associated His name with Muhammad’s name in the call to prayer and in the article of faith. Allah says “Believe in Allah and His messenger” in His Book repeatedly. The obedience to Allah is associated to the obedience to His messenger Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam). Allah says “Obey Allah and His Messenger.” Allah also says “Whoever obeys the Messenger, indeed obeys Allah.” Allah confers His peace and blessing upon Muhammad and the angels pray to Allah for same thing. Allah says: “Allâh and His angels send Salât on the Prophet.” [Surah Ahzaab: Ayah 56] Allah sent Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) as a witness over all humans, as He says “O Prophet (Muhammad SAW)! Verily, We have sent you as witness, and a bearer of glad tidings, and a warner, And as one who invites to Allâh by His Leave, and as a lamp spreading light.” [Surah Ahzaab: Ayaah 45-46] Allah spoke gently with Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam). Allah says to him “May Allâh forgive you (O Muhammad SAW). Why did you grant them leave [from the fighting]…” [Surah Tawbah: Ayah 43] Allah promised to give Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) what he wants of good things until he is pleased. Allah says “And verily, your Lord will give you (all good) so that you shall be well-pleased.” [Surah Dhuha: Ayah 5] And Allah says “And verily, for you (O Muhammad SAW) will be an endless reward.” [Surah Qalam: Ayaah 3] Allah has promised to look after Muhammad and defend him. Allah says to Muhammad “Truly! We will suffice you against the scoffers.” [Surah Hijr: Ayah 95] Allah also says to Muhammad “Allâh will protect you from mankind.” [Surah Ma'idah: Ayah 67] And Allah also says “So wait patiently (O Muhammad SAW) for the Decision of your Lord, for verily, you are under Our Eyes…” [Surah Tuur: Ayah 48]

The Prophet’s (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) life kept the world secure against destruction and ruin. Allah the Almighty forgave Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) his past and future sins. Allah guided Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) and supported him. Allah sent Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) as a mercy for the whole world. Allah says “And We have sent you (O Muhammad SAW) not but as a mercy for the ‘Alamîn.” [Surah Anbiya: Ayah 107] A prophet like Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) can never be harmed by abuse or insults. The love of Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) wells up in the hearts of Muslims. Muhammad’s (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) position in Allah’s sight is very great. This is the clear truth that can never be removed by mere false accusations.

Oh Allah, fill our hearts with the love of Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam). Oh Allah, we turn unto you against those who abuse Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam). Oh Allah, make us follow the traditions of the Prophet (salawatullahi wa salaamuhu alayh).

Fellow Muslims, always remember that Allah has commanded you to invoke His peace and blessings on Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam), the seal of the prophets and the mercy of Allah all mankind. Allah says: “Allâh and His angels send Salât on the Prophet. O you who believe! Send your Salât on him, and greet him with the Islâmic way of greeting.” [Surah Ahzaab: Ayah 56]

Oh Allah, confer your peace and blessings on your servant and messenger Muhammad, and be please with the four rightly guided khulafa Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, Uthmaan, and ‘Ali, as well as the Prophet’s household, all his companions, the tabi’een, and those who have followed them in doing good deeds until the day of Judgment. And be pleased with us along with them by your Grace, Bounty, and Benovelance….

The Scourge of Thousands

Sheikh Saalih al Humaid
April 4, 2008 ~ Rabee al Awwal 28, 1429

Right Click > Save: Khutbah Audio in Arabic

All praise is due to Allah and He deserves all Praise. All that is good is in Allah’s hands and He has the power over all things. I praise Allah and thank Him for His abundant blessings and favors. I bear witness that there is no God except Allah, the only One God, who has no partner in worship. Glory be to Allah, the unique God who has no equal. I bear witness that Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) is Allah’s servant and messenger. He brought us all that is good and warned us against all that is evil. Oh Allah, send your peace and blessings upon Muhammad, his family and companions, and whomever follows them in righteousness.

Oh people, I advise myself and you to fear Allah. Fear Him so that He may have mercy upon you. Hasten to do good deeds and turn unto Allah in repentance before deaths comes upon you, as no one knows the time death will come. How can a person expect to attain Jannah if he is negligent of these teachings. How can it be that one turns sincerely to Allah in repentance while he does not care about his fate in the hereafter? Indeed happiness and success are with the person who keeps in mind that Allah is Ever Watching over him.

Fellow Muslims, stand before Allah in submissiveness, pray to Him in humility, and weep tears of regret in fear. Allah says: “On the Day when every person will be confronted with all the good he has done, and all the evil he has done, he will wish that there were a great distance between him and his evil. And Allâh warns you against Himself (His Punishment) and Allâh is full of Kindness to the (His) slaves.” [Surah Ale 'Imraan: Ayah 30]

Fellow Muslims, Islamic law enjoins all that is beneficial and forbids all that is harmful. In other words, our Islamic law is based on providing and promoting benefits and preventing and reducing harm and evil. Therefore, Allah permits good things and forbids bad ones. Allah says: “They ask you (O Muhammad) what is made lawful for them. Say: (all) good things are made lawful for you…” [Surah Ma'idah: Ayah 4] An essential part of the Prophet’s (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) mission was enjoin the good and forbid the evil, and make pure things lawful and make the impure things unlawful.

This principle is stated by Islamic law and agreed on by all schools of thought, so let us ponder on the great catasrophe that is being inflicted on society and about which all wise individuals are upset, not to mention the efforts by physicians and scholars to stop it. It is smoking. Many specialists say that the greatest threat to human health these days is smoking. They also say that people are not as weak when facing an enemy as they are when confronted with the issue of smoking. This habit brings about destruction, defeats people, and kills them. It destroys peoples health and threatens the safety of children. It causes misery to families and a great deal of dispute. It also effects the economy and the success of nations. I am talking about all kinds of smoking and the chewing of tobacco. Smoking is a real enemy to humanity and destroys people. Smoking is a widespread habit which is the most dangerous. Educators, media staff, psychologists, economists, sociologists, doctors, and the ulama all agree that this habit is dangerous to humans and that it should be prevented and resisted as well as all the means that lead to it.

No one denies that smoking is a negative thing and harmful to humans, and moreover, it has no benefit. Also no one denies that it causes destruction, loss, and great harm to human health. A smoker obtains no benefit from smoking but only allows poisons to enter his body. The whole matter ends up in ashes. It is not just smoking, but the problem lies in poison and poisonous gases that enter the smokers blood, thus destroying his health and his mind. Smoking is a disease which causes destruction to the family and society.

Oh servants of Allah, I am not exaggerating. Let me explain some more things to you on this subject. Physicians and doctors state that smoking causes cancer of the throat and lips. It also causes cancer of the tongue and pherinx as well as the esophagus and the urinary bladder. It also causes bronchitis and diseases in the blood vessel. Moreover, it causes stomach ulcers. Continuous smoking may also cause heart attacks. What do you think will happen to a person who smokes tens of cigarettes a day? The World Health Organization and medical institutions state that smoking is the most serious danger to ones health. It is the second most common cause of death. Most people who die lived a bad life because of the diseases caused by smoking. Most people who are afflicted by this disease have this problem because of smoking. The number of those who die due to smoking exceed the number of those who died because of drugs, plagues, leprosy, tuberculosis, and AIDS. This comparison is not intended to belittle the danger of these other diseases, especially drugs and AIDS. This is just meant to show the danger of the great disease of smoking.

Smoking affects the whole body, including the respiratory system, the heart, the teeth, the brain, the digestive system, the nervous system , and the skin. It makes a person age more quickly. It also causes sleeping disorders, depression, infertility, and disorder in the menstrual cycle and as well causing harm to the unborn child. Specialists stress the fact that smoking opens up a way for drug addiction as well as immorality and irresponsibility. Smokers tend to tell lies and steal easier. Concerning the negative effects of smoking on the economy, it brings about poverty, bankruptcy and economic destruction.

If you look at the issue of smoking in the light of the diseases we mentioned earlier as well as the economic consequences, the one who has a conscience must do something to prevent smoking. Statistics failed to indicate the exact extent of the negative consequences of smoking in terms of the economy and financial institutions. In reality, smoking causes harm to smokers as well as non smokers. It is enough to say that in this regard the cost of health care for the smokers exceeds hundreds of millions. Unfortunately half of all the smokers around the world are from third world countries. This is not to mention the economic consequences on the individuals themselves and personal health care costs paid by the family. Smokers may pay a lot of money to cure themselves and their families from the negative effects of smoking, such as coughing, allergies, and weak immunity. The money and funds that are spent on smoking and health care revenues exceed the revenue in producing tobacco and selling it. Countries around the world loose billions of dollars and the number of victims are increasing. Victims include smokers and non smokers. In some countries, medication for the side effects exceed a third of the nations budget. The consumption of smoking increases the gap between the poor and the rich. The families of smokers in poor countries cannot secure the necessities of life including health and education. The annual cost of smoking may b sixty times more than the cost spent on health care and double that given to education. It is a big sin for the countries who should care for their people and it is also a sin for the individuals themselves as it causes loss to the family. These are some of the negative effects of smoking in relation to the economy and health.

Another aspect we have to stress on is passive smoking, which is the involuntary inhalation of tobacco. The pollution caused by smoking affects clothing and walls and ceilings of houses. Passive smokers inhale tobacco and all the poisons that affect the smoker will also affect the passive smoker. This requires preventive actions to protect individuals and the society. Studies prove that the campaigns that are held to prevent smoking are largely ineffective, especially in public places such as schools, restaurants, transportation stations. Therefore, it is the duty of everyone to resist the trend to smoke and its industry.

Dear smokers, kill smoking before it kills you. Break the shackles of smoking before it imprisons you. Protect yourself, your wife, your children, your family, and your wealth. Listen to the information provided by the scientific studies on this subject. These reports stress that by quitting smoking it will improve the persons health and economic situation. If you stop smoking, you will have more benefit for your health than medication. It is sure that smokers love their family and they have pure hearts, however they have been afflicted by this destructive disease. They do not deny the harmful effects of smoking. Also, they may confess that smoking is a sin and a prohibited action and they may wish that they could quit in one day and stop this bad habit once and for all. From this point, it is a duty on everyone to help such people and encourage them to quit and to make it easy for them to do it.

Dear smokers, listen to this beautiful statement said by Ibn al Qayyim (Rahimahullah): “It is difficult to abandon a habit or something that you like, if you do not do it for Allah’s sake. Likewise, if he leaves that habit or something he likes for Allah’s sake, it will not be difficult. It will only be difficult in the very beginning. He will be tested if he will continue or not and if he is sincere in seeking Allah’s pleasure or not. So if he proves to be steadfast in leaving the bad habit and bears this difficulty in the very beginning the whole thing will become easy for him.” So dear smokers, be serious and be courageous and make the decision today to quit. After that remain steadfast in your decision. Try to reduce the harm of smoking to yourself and to other people around you. Beware of introducing the habit of smoking to others, whether young or old. When you quit smoking and Allah the Almighty helps you to rid yourself of this habit, the result will inshaAllah be a long life and good health. You will also look younger and feel younger. Your sense of taste will increase and you will save a lot of money and lead a happier life. This is not to mention that you will receive Allah’s reward in the hereafter for those who believe in Him and trust in Him. I am addressing this issue now to the decision makers. All the categories of society including educators, doctors, reformers, traders and scholars have to cooperate to save the smokers and the society from this disease.

Oh people, cooperate with one another in righteousness and piety and do not cooperate in sin and transgression. Seek to protect the nation, protect the youth, protect peoples health and the economy. Protect the wealth, and indeed the greatest wealth of the society is its youth. You could do this by combing efforts and having a strong determination along with strict laws. In this way we can get rid of this habit and remove it completely. Unfortunately our region is classified as one of the most afflicted places when it comes to smoking. Moreover, our region is one of the largest markets for these harmful commodities. We have to implement strict laws that prevent smoking and restrict it in all public institutions and places. Advertising and promoting smoking should not be allowed. Strict instructions have to be given to people on the dangers of smoking. If such instructions are given by people of authority then the people will abide by these rules and reap the benefit. Allah says: “And spend in the Cause of Allāh and do not throw yourselves into destruction (by not spending your wealth in the Cause of Allāh), and do good. Truly, Allāh loves Al-Muhsinūn.” [Surah Baqarah: Ayah 195] Destruction inevitabely ends up in ruin.

Fellow Muslims, I ask Allah to bless us all with the noble Quraan and benefit us with all its clear signs and with the guidance of the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) and his judicious speech. I ask Allah’s forgiveness for me, you and all the Muslims. So ask Him to forgive you, indeed He is the Most Merciful, the Oft-Forgiving.

All praise is due to Allah and all people should praise Him. I praise Allah and thank Him. I bear witness that there is no God except Allah, the only One true God, who has no partner in worship. What Allah wills will be, and what He never wills will never be. And I bear witness that Muhammad is the servant and messenger of Allah, who was sent to mankind and jinn. May Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him, and upon his companions and all those who follow them in righteousness until the day of Judgment.

Fellow Muslims! Smoking is a great destruction. It is a great disease that has afflicted many people including those who are learned and those who are ignorant, the rich and the poor. A smoker only gains bad health, so it clear that a production industry and marketing in tobacco are all destructive means that we can never accept or defend. Tobacco manufacturers spread death and destruction everywhere. This destruction affects the environment and causes great losses in terms of wealth and property. Indeed it is trading in loss. Everyone will loose, the trader, the buyer, the producer, and the smoker, as well as the importer and the exporter. On the day of Judgment a person will not move from the place of judgment until he is asked about his health and how he used it, his money and how he spent it, and his life and how he used it. People can never escape these questions on the day of Judgment. Look deeply into the commercials about smoking and see how people deceive and tempt others. See how they draw simple people into adopting this habit. This is not to mention how this market is involved in deception and bribery and the pressure of the people involved in this harmful business apply to the decision makers. This is indeed disloyalty and treason to their people. Smoking is an industry of death and trading in it is destruction.

They address the youth and young children including the girls. Protect yourself from falling into this habit that destroys your soul and spoils health. It weakens a persons strength and wastes money. Oh youth, beware of being deceived. Do not be deceived and think that smoking is a sign of manhood or adulthood. Do not think that it is the sign of independence.

Oh people, fear Allah and protect yourself and families and protect your wealth and property. Fellow Muslims, invoke Allah’s peace and blessings on the selected Prophet and chosen Messenger, Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam). Allah says “Allâh and His angels send Salât on the Prophet. O you who believe! Send your Salât on him, and greet him with the Islâmic way of greeting.” [Surah Ahzaab: Ayah 56]

Oh Allah, confer your peace and blessings upon your servant and messenger, Muhammad, his purified household and his wives the mothers of the believers.

Oh Allah, be pleased with the four rightly guided khulafa, Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, Uthmaan, and ‘Ali, as well as the Prophet’s companions, the tabi’een, and those who followed them in righteousness until the day of Judgment. And be pleased with us along with them by Your Grace, Bounty, and Benevolence, oh Allah, the Most Generous amongst those who are generous.

Oh Allah, cause Islaam and the Muslims to triumph….

Indeed all praise is due to Allah. We praise Him, seek His help, ask for His forgiveness, and we thank Him abundantly. He has given us countless bounties and bountiful provision. Glory be to Him. All deserves all Glory and Praise, and it our duty to acknowledge His greatness. I bear witness that there is no God worthy of worship except Allah alone who has no partner. This is a testimony by which we will enter Jannah. And I bear witness that Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) is the servant and messenger of Allah the Almighty. He is the best of human beings in terms of lineage and race, characteristics and morality and his was a biography that enlightened the entire universe. May Allah’s abundant peace and blessings be upon him. This is part of the right of Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) granted to him by Allah the Almighty. And may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon his family and companions, and those who supported and protected him as well as his successors and those who follow him in righteous deeds out of love for him and his message.

Oh servants of Allah, the best of advice is to advise you to fear Allah. So fear Allah the Almighty so that He may have mercy on you. Know that Godly consciousness is a means to defend the sunnah of the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) and a means to attain the highest degree in Jannah. It is also a shield against innovation and misguidance. Moreover, it is a proof of one’s true love for the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam). It is the best of provisions for the hearts that are steadfast. “…And take a provision (with you) for the journey, but the best provision is At-Taqwa (piety, righteousness). So fear Me, O men of understanding!” [Surah Baqarah: Ayaah 197]

Oh Muslims, people before the mission of the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) lived for a long time in an incoherent society, where there were people who were arrogant and self-righteous. Many people misbehaved and worshipped idols. They lived under oppression and transgression in a distorted and corrupted society. This was the case until the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) arrived. So through Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) the whole world was guided towards monotheism, morality, and how to live a humane life. He guided towards all that is right, good, and divinely just. Allah says: “O Prophet! Verily, We have sent you as witness, and a bearer of glad tidings, and a warner, And as one who invites to Allâh by His Leave, and as a lamp spreading light.” [Surah Ahzaab: Ayaah 45-46] The light of his message spread to the whole world because his message is a guiding light. This is a light that Allah the Almighty enabled to spread everywhere. The Ummah expanded and as time passed it became stronger and stronger. He taught the world that had been deprived of the beauty of light, justice, and guidance. It also gave them the utmost dignity and honor. So all praise is due to Allah for this blessing and bounties. Glory be to Allah the Almighty who gave His Messenger the best of messages to the worlds. Indeed our praise of you Messenger of Allah is hardly anything after Allah the Almighty has mentioned you in His book and praised you.

Oh Muslims, it is from the wisdom of Allah the Almighty that He chose Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) to be the Messenger to mankind. Who is the best and the most noble of all the prophets? Muhammad ibn ‘Abdullah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam)! Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) is the man of dignity and honor. He is the one who received the revelation and was supported by the angel Jibraeel and whose name was mentioned in the Tawrah and Injeel. The characteristics that Allah the Almighty has given to His Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) are not restricted to the interpretations of those who write his biography. Indeed his biography is spread everywhere, on all platforms and podiums, and raised high.

Oh brothers and sisters in Islam, because of this great position that the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) has, he is the guided mercy and blessing from Allah. Yet we see people slandering him out of jealousy. Their hearts are filled with hatred towards. It is now time that we should know where we really stand and what our attitudes are towards the beloved Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) in terms of following his guidance and sunnah and studying his biography. We must support him especially at this time, when materialism has controlled everything, when people no longer feel inspired, when people are misbehaving and being immoral, when many societies have been distorted and insult divine guidance, the Messengers, and dare to speak arrogantly about the best of mankind. May Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him day and night. There are some people who want to distort teachings of the sunnah and the biography of the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) while they understand it. Such people are like sharpened swords that seek to sever the Ummah. However, there are many people who are of sound minds and they defend the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) regardless of where they live. They defend humanity and this is their duty because Allah says “And We have sent you not but as a mercy for the ‘Alamîn.” [Surah Anbiya: Ayah 107]

Oh nation of victory, those who love the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam), in order to defend the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) and his sunnah, we should realize that defending him is a religious duty and a methodology. It is part of our belief and we should be steadfast in our adherence to his way. If we follow his Sunnah without any misinterpretations we will find fruitful results if we are not reactionary when he is insulted. We must put our thoughts into actions in a positive way. This methodology has been explained by the Salafus Saalih (Rahimahumullah). There has certainly been in them an excellent pattern for anyone whose hope is in Allah the Almighty and the Last Day. By doing so we are following Allah’s commands and following His Prophet as he had said “Stick to my Sunnah, and the Sunnah of the Khulafa ar Rashideen (the Rightly Guided Khalifs) after me.” So stick to it with perseverance and beware of innovations because every innovation is misguidance.

Al Qadi Iyaad (Rahimahullah) said “Part of our love for our Messenger (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) is to defend and support his shari’ah and sunnah.” Zuhri (Rahimahullah) said “Adherence to the sunnah is a way of salvation and this cannot be achieved except by following it with devotion and being far from innovation with faithfulness and in practical ways.” And Al Izz ibn ‘Abdus Salaam stated “There is great happiness for the one who followed his sunnah and his way and his heart is filled with love for the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) in every single matter, minor and major, even if it is much or little.” Our adherence to the Prophet’s (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) sunnah is not conditioned by certain occasions and specified by days. It is not done by giving speeches nor by empty praise, but it is by following in his footsteps, following his authentic sunnah. Defending the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) is all about loving him and following him in all our actions.

Oh Muslim Ummah, our attitude will not be reformed until we adhere to the Book of Allah and the sunnah of the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) according to the methodology of the righteous predecessors of the Ummah as well as the everlasting heritage of the Prophet in all walks of life whether it be political, economic, social, ideological, and so on. Doing this will be a shield that protects us from our enemies and it will also be a shield against innovations and falsehood. If you follow in his footsteps, you will be guided.

The following are some of the ways we should defend him (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) in order to fulfill the conditions in believing in his message. We should teach the upcoming generation and the whole world position and characteristics of the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) and his favor over all people. Showing his sunnah and teachings to people and adhering to it by putting it into practical action, studying it and teaching to others. We should also learn and practice his life example, memorizing it in schools, universities, institutions, and organizations. We should do this so that we may become advanced scientifically and religiously. This is because it is the methodology that emerged from the best of human beings. Doing this is a way of truly defending the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam). Allah the Almighty says: “So they who have believed in him, honored him, supported him and followed the light which was sent down with him it is those who will be the successful.” [7:157]

We should call on people to adhere to this and urge them in every gathering, summits, conferences, and even in political circles with honor and self-respect. Is it acceptable that in order to defend the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) to keep his sunnah in our hearts and books without any feelings of practical manifestation? Is it just some written words and we fail to apply the traditions in our daily lives? Or is it acceptable to practice his sunnah for just a few days and then ignore it for the rest of the year? Or should we just talk about his sunnah and mention his name but fail to put it all into practice? No, never, ever! Don’t you think that defending the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam), following his sunnah, mentioning his name and following his footsteps is a way for salvation and prosperity and attaining success?

Oh our Lord, who has nothing similar unto Him, we ask you to grant us victory soon, to grant victory to your religion. May Allah’s peace and blessing be upon the Prophet, the best of mankind. I seek refuge in Allah from the accursed Shaytaan. May Allah bless His book and the sunnah of the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) for all of us as his seerah and may He grant us the best provision. Allah says “Say (O Mohammad to the people): ‘If you really love Allah, then follow me. And He (Allah) in return will love you, and will forgive you for you sins, and indeed Allah is oft-forgiving and most merciful.’ Say: ‘Obey Allah and the Messenger’, and if they turn away, then verily Allah does not love the disbelievers.” [Surah Ale Imraan: Ayah 31-32]

All praise is due to Allah. His blessings encompass all creation. The whole universe witnesses His Oneness. I bear witness that there is no God worthy of worship except Allah, who has no partners. And I bear witness that Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) is the servant and messenger of Allah. He was granted the praiseworthy position in the hereafter and the fountain. Oh Allah, send your blessings on him, his family and companions, and all those who strive to defend him and protect his sunnah, and on those who follow him in righteousness seeking to enter Jannah the everlasting abode.

Oh Muslims, fear Allah the Almighty in the way He should be feared. He is Ever Watchful of you at all times and places. Be sure that amongst the best of good deeds that brings you closer to Allah the Almighty is to defend the honor of the best of mankind. And so that Allah may make evident those who support Him and His messengers. Indeed Allah is Powerful and Exalted in Might.

Oh people of victory, it is sure that in times of hardship there are glad tidings and blessings. The catastrophe that we face in our Ummah in terms of the slander against the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) has only made his name and seerah mentioned more and more. We find his message everywhere. It makes people long to be with the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam). The slander against the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) is a hardship on the Ummah, but all praise is due to Allah because the Muslims understand the crisis and are teaching people about the truth. The negative effects have made the Ummah gather around the sunnah of the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) and his seerah. And they also started to study the stories of all the prophets (Alayhimus Salaam). They started to establish a plan to defend the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam). Allah the Almighty says “…Do not think that it was bad for you; instead, it was good for you…” [Surah Nuur: Ayah 11] The person who loves the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) and seeks to protect him in the best way loves his way of defending him. Such a person is with those who are striving to do the same and they all seek redress the problems of the Muslims worldwide by all available means. They do this in a scientific, well-planned way that is in accordance with the public interests and international laws. They seek beneficial results and they love the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) and say I would sacrifice the thing I love most for him. They do this by following him properly, by means of media channels, using technology, and trying to formulate their thoughts to defend him. They strive to spread the correct image of Islam, its beauty, its light, and its mercy. They refute all falsehood against the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) and Islam. Such people also spread his seerah in different languages. This is done by both individual efforts and the efforts of organizations around the world. We ask Allah the Almighty to accept of our dua.

Oh Muslims, the initiative that began in the land of the Haram’ain ash Sharif’ain calls all civilizations to peacefully co-exist and to respect all the messages and sacred books of Allah the Almighty. It also calls for civil dialogue that brings about peace and security to all people, therefore cooperation and kindness towards each another. This is necessary in order to protect humanity from any form of destruction at a time when people’s rights are being constantly violated. We must face the challenges in order to achieve the goals of the Muslim Ummah and this is just one of the best ways to defend the Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam). It declares to the whole universe that this is our religion, our Prophet (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam), our civilization, and our message. May Allah the Almighty protect our Muslim leaders and support them in all good works. May people make dua for them. Allah says: And say (O Muhammad SAW) “Do deeds! Allâh will see your deeds, and (so will) His Messenger and the believers…” [Surah Tawbah: Ayah 105] And Allah says: “But honour, power and glory belong to Allâh, and to His Messenger, and to the believers, but the hypocrites know not.” [Surah Munafiquun: Ayah 8] Send your peace and blessings upon the Messenger (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) who raised the highest levels by his morality and enlightened the earth with his beauty. Send your peace and blessings on upon him and his family as Allah the Almight commanded you to do so. Allah says: “Allâh and His angels send Salât on the Prophet. O you who believe! Send your Salât on him, and greet him with the Islâmic way of greeting.” [Surah Ahzaab: Ayah 56]

Oh Allah, send your peace and blessings upon your chosen Prophet forever.

Oh Allah, be pleased with his righteous companions Abu Bakr who was his companion in the Cave, and ‘Umar who was the one who could distinguish between good and evil and the conqueror of countries, and Uthmaan who had the best of characteristics, and ‘Ali who was intelligent, and the ten companions who were promised Jannah.

And may Your peace and blessings be upon us out of your Generosity and Mercy. Oh the Most Forgiving, the Most Majestic, make our Prophet Muhammad our intercessor on the day of Judgment and fill our hearts with love for him.

Make us amongst those who defend and protect him continuously, oh Lord of Majesty and Generosity.

Oh Allah, honor Islam and the Muslims…

Rights of the Heart

Sheikh Usaamah al Khayyat
March 21, 2008 ~ Rabee al Awwal 14, 1429

All praise is due to Allah. We thank Him, we praise Him, and we seek His forgiveness. We seek refuge in Allah from the evil of ourselves and the evil of our own desires. Whomever Allah guides none can misguide, and whomever Allah lets to be led astray none can guide. I bear witness that there is nothing worthy of worship except Allah alone without any partners. I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and messenger. May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon His servant and messenger Muhammad, and his family and companions.

Oh servants of Allah, fear Allah and fear the day on which you shall be returned to Allah, a day when every servant will paid back what he has earned in this world and none of you will be treated unjustly.

Oh Muslims, emotions are a type of feelings that can become overwhelming for a person to a degree where it becomes their soul motivation. It may drive a person towards either that which is right or that which is wrong. Emotions have a healthy side and that is to create a feeling of love, bonding, and sympathy towards people who have done good for us and people who are related to us whether through the ties of kinship or otherwise. It drives us to pay back their sacrifices and goodness towards us by us returning the kindness in equal measures. However, there is also a destructive side to emotions when it becomes an impediment to the establishment of justice. It is destructive when it motivates a person towards towards arguing over that which has ordained to be wrong just that he may save his face. It may also be that one’s feelings towards another becomes an impediment towards their being a trustworthy source of testimony, because they follow their emotions and feelings and defend a person based on their closeness rather than judging the matter on right and wrong.

Testimony is a tool that plays a great role in establishing justice within our communities. If a person is called upon for his testimony, it is obligatory on him to provide truthful and honest testimony. Allah the Almighty says: “O you who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allâh, even though it be against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, be he rich or poor, Allâh is a Better Protector to both (than you). So follow not the lusts (of your hearts), lest you avoid justice, and if you distort your witness or refuse to give it, verily, Allâh is Ever Well Acquainted with what you do.” [Surah Nisa: Ayah 135] Allah the Exalted and Almighty has forbidden us to override us when it comes to establishment of justice, as in the case of the fornicator. Allah says: “Let not pity withhold you in their case, in a punishment prescribed by Allâh, if you believe in Allâh and the Last Day. And let a party of the believers witness their punishment.” [Surah Nuur: Ayah 2] In another incident, when Sayyidina Rasulullah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) was dealing with the woman from the Quraysh who held accountable for stealing, the Sahaba sent Usaamah bin Zaid forth to intercede on her behalf. The Messenger (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) of Allah asked him ‘Do you dare to speak to me about one of the hudud, the limits laid down by Allah!‘ Usamah beseeched him, ‘Pray for my forgiveness, oh Messenger of Allah!‘ That evening the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) made a speech. After praising Allah, he said, “The people before you were destroyed because when one of their noblemen stole, they ignored the offense but when one of the poor people stole, they administered the hadd (prescribed punishment). By the One who holds my life in His hand, if Fatimah bint Muhammad, were to steal, I would have her hand cut off.” In another hadith, ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Umar (Radiallahu Anhum) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “If a person intercedes in wavering a punishment that is incurred by a person who has commited an act of injustice or a crime, then they are only invoking the wrath of Allah. If they provide false testimony then they incur the wrath of Allah on themselves until they absolve themselves of this false testimony.” [Sunan Abu Dawud]

The punishments as prescribed by Allah are there to serve as a deterrent in protecting and preserving societies from the spread of disobedience. It is similar to the treatment of cancer, where when a cancerous element is found in the body then that part of the body is either excised or amputated. That is done with a greater benefit in mind for the protection of the rest of the body. Similar is the situation of punishments when they are prescribed. We see another group of people who become defensive and they spend all that they have with their power even when they know that they in the wrong. That is one of the greatest forms of injustices that they not only perpetuate against themselves but against the community as well, as their self defense becomes a costly exercise on the resources that can be otherwise directed towards more worthy causes. When we are confronted with such situations of false testimonies or a person’s wrongful self defense, the duty lies on the shoulders of the Muslims to stop such people. Stopping them is in reality helping them. On the authority of Anas ibn Maalik, the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “Help your brother, whether he is an oppressor or he is an oppressed one. The Sahaba asked, “O Allah’s Apostle! It is all right to help him if he is oppressed, but how should we help him if he is an oppressor?” The Prophet said, “By preventing him from oppressing others.” [Saheeh Bukhari] The punishment of the person who argues and provides a false testimony is so grave that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) has stated that their end results will be ever lasting in the fire. “O you who believe! Keep your duty to Allâh and fear Him, and speak (always) the truth. He will direct you to do righteous good deeds and will forgive you your sins. And whosoever obeys Allâh and His Messenger (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) he has indeed achieved a great achievement.” [Surah Ahzaab: Ayaah 70-71]

Oh servants of Allah, the scholars of Islam have said “One of the greatest injustices is to accuse a Muslim wrongly, and to seek to humiliate him or a way to cause harm to his character.” On the authority of ‘Abdullah ibn Masud (Radiallahu Anhu) the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said “The best of you is the one whose goodness is sought after by people, and from whose evil the people are protected. The worst of you is the one who has no goodness to give away, nor are the people protected from his evil.” [Ahmad's Musnad] With this, we conclude help us benefit from the guidance in His book and the Sunnah of His Messenger (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam).

We ask of Allah to send His peace and blessing upon His beloved Messenger, Muhammad, and his companions Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, Uthmaan, and ‘Ali and those who followed them in righteousness until the last day.
Oh Allah bring dignity and honor to Islaam and the Muslims and protect the believers..

Wealth

Sheikh Saud ash Shuraim
March 14, 2008 ~ Rabee al Awwal 7, 1429

All praise is due to Allah, the One who forgives our sins and accepts our repentance, the One who punishes and the One who rewards. There is none worthy of worship except Allah without any partners. We praise Him and we thank Him. To Him do we turn to in repentance and we seek His forgiveness. I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah without any partners. And I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and messenger, who conveyed the message, delivered his trust, and strove on the path of Allah until he attained certainty. May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, on his family, his companions, and those who followed them and their footsteps until the Last Day.

Oh Muslims, a piece of advice that applies to you and I is to fear Allah the Exalted and Almighty and remain aware of him in private and in public. We need to follow up every sinful deed with a good deed. When we are dealing with people we deal with them in the best of character and manners. Allah says: “Verily, he who fears Allâh with obedience to Him, and is patient, then surely, Allâh makes not the reward of the Muhsinûn to be lost.” [Surah Yusuf: Ayah 90]

Oh people, wealth in this world is a key ingredient and a lubricant for the proper functioning of society and the material development. It is no wonder that we see men striving with their efforts and energy in order to attains great amounts of wealth for themselves. This often drags the son of Adam to means which result in greater problems and brings upon themselves hardship and discord Allah says: “And you love wealth with much love!” [Surah Fajr: Ayah 20]

As we live this temporary life in this world, we work and toil, spending our efforts to earn a living. While we do so, we forget that we are on a journey, and we will reach our destination. We will be taken to account by Allah, the Exalted and Almighty for all that we have done whether it is private or in public. Allah says: “O man! Verily, you are returning towards your Lord with your deeds and actions, a sure returning, and you will meet (i.e. the results of your deeds which you did).” [Surah Inshiqaaq: Ayah 6] Indeed Allah will reward us for every good deed and punish us for every wrong deed.

We see the amount of discontentment, problems, and hardships people face in the world when seeking wealth has become sole goal in their lives. They do not know how to properly contextualize their wealth or seek it in the best of ways so that it does not become a hurdle in their path of achieving a life of happiness and ease. Those who are the servants of Allah see wealth as a virtue and a blessing from Allah the Exalted and Almighty. They show gratitude to Allah for it and spend it in a manner that pleases Allah. They are not niggardly or miserly with it. They may own the wealth, but they do not let their wealth own them. Whereas, we see the disbelievers and those who are far from the guidance of Allah, the Exalted and Almighty, do everything in their means in order to earn wealth for themselves and spend it in paths which are displeasing to Allah. There are those who spend their wealth and energy in order to stop the call of Allah from spreading. Allah says: “Verily, those who disbelieve spend their wealth to hinder (men) from the Path of Allâh, and so will they continue to spend it; but in the end it will become an anguish for them…” [Surah Anfaal: Ayah 36] The Messenger of Allah has said “If you become like those who carry out their financial transactions with usury and interest, and their sources of income become impure, and they leave striving for the cause of Allah, then Allah will bring upon them humiliation and he will not remute this humiliation until they turn back to Allah.” [Bukhari, in Adab al Mufrad] This demonstrates that indeed wealth and creating the correct means to attain wealth plays an important role in our lives.

We see the world today living in a time of financial crisis and economic inequality that cannot be understood easily. We see Muslim countries under the pressures of foreign countries who intervene in their economic affairs. That consequently has an effect on the way the wealth is distributed within the Muslim communities. The lack of sovereignty of a particular country over their own wealth and economic resources results in the country’s economic and political instability. Therefore, it is important for Muslim countries to seek obtain economic independence. They need to understand economic system of Islam and if only they seek to establish that system will they gain stability and independence. We see institutions as the economic forces and capital markets that under name of creating balance between economies are only creating problems and instability in communities that were unprecedented. Islam takes a balanced approach between economic growth and local development. Those who are in positions of authority need to focus and not lose sight of peoples basic needs. We know that the word iqtisad in Arabic means balance and fairness in wealth, whereas we see what is prevelant in the world today is the opposite. Economic inequality has become the norm. Islam seeks to create an equitable system whereby the poor and the rich alike get a fair chance to live in a way that is suitable to a mans honor and dignity.

Some people may take mockery out of what we are saying for they think that the economy can only be run through mathematical and quantitative analysis and that it has nothing to do with our moral values or the ethics that we follow. However, Islamic economics differentiates itself from capitalistic and socialistic economies in that economic activity is regulated by moral values and principles which are fundamental to the correct functioning any economy. Due to the lack of moral ethics in the capitalist and socialist economies, we see the spread of corruption amongst the economic institutions which spreads to individuals as well as organizations.

Allah says: “O you who believe! Be afraid of Allâh and give up what remains from Ribâ, if you are (really) believers.” [Surah Baqarah: Ayah 278] Usuary is innately unjust and takes advantage of those who are in a difficult position. It gives power to those who are in position of authority. “So whosoever receives an admonition from his Lord and stops eating Ribâ (usury) shall not be punished for the past; his case is for Allâh (to judge);” [Surah Baqarah: Ayah 275]

Oh brothers in Islam, Islamic economics requires serious attention from scholars and economists to come together contextualize the guidance of Islam in their local economies. It is known that every serious effort to understand the root cause of problems takes clear and well defined steps. It starts with observation, then adopting a set of assumptions, thereafter periodically testing those set of assumptions, until a conclusion is reached and the root of the problem is identified. It also requires us to search in the methodology of the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam) for guidance through which we are able to regulate our economic activity. Allah warns us against eating the wealth of one another. Allah says: “O you who believe! Eat not up your property among yourselves unjustly except it be a trade amongst you, by mutual consent. And do not kill yourselves (nor kill one another). Surely, Allâh is Most Merciful to you.” [Surah Nisaa: Ayah 29]

Oh Muslims, fear Allah and know the economic difficulties that the Islamic world is facing is due to the lack of these countries abiding by the principles of Islam. Islamic economics is built upon cooperation and mutual assistance. However, we see that the current practices in the world are blind to the needs of others and it based solely on personal interests. We must not forget about two of the important institutions of Islam through which we create a cooperative society and society that is able to support itself, where the weak and poor have a relationship. These institutions are zakaah and waqf. It is inevitable that in order for the Muslim countries to come out of the instability they are facing that they obey and adhere to the guidance of Islam in this matter and create a cooperative economy and increase trade between Muslim countries. They will thereby create a self sufficient economy that does not require them to be dependant on foreign economies who have nothing but their own personal desires in mind.

Allah has made it easy for us to take matters into our hands, and unless we do so we will only suffer from what our hands have earned for us or against us. Allah says: “He it is, Who has made the earth subservient to you, so walk in the path thereof and eat of His provision, and to Him will be the Resurrection.” [Surah Mulk: Ayah 15] With this, we conclude, and remind you to invoke the peace and blessings of Allah upon our beloved Prophet and Messenger, Muhammad (Salallahu Alallahu Alayhi Wasallam). Allah says: “Allâh and His angels send Salât on the Prophet. O you who believe! Send your Salât on him, and greet him with the Islâmic way of greeting.” [Surah Ahzaab: Ayah 56]

Oh Allah, we ask of you to send your peace and blessings on your Messenger, and his family, and companions and those who followed them in righteousness.

Oh Allah, be pleased with the rightly guided khulafa, Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, Uthmaan and ‘Ali.

Oh Allah, we ask of you to bring honor and dignity to Islam and the Muslims….