Sweet Muslimah: THE SUNNAH WAYS OF CUTTING THE NAILS

How To Perform Fard Salah - Flash Movie

1. Fajr (Dawn Prayer) takes place before sunrise. At moderate latitudes, it begins approximately one hour and twenty minutes before sunrise and ends about ten minutes before sunrise - 2 Rakaat
2. Zhuhr (Noon Prayer) begins just after the sun has passed the meridian. It lasts until shortly before the ‘Asr Prayer begins - 4 Rakaat
3. ‘Asr (Afternoon Prayer) begins when the length of the shadow of an object is equal to the object’s length plus the shadow’s length at noon. It ends about 10 minutes before sunset - 4 Rakaat
4. Maghrib (Sunset Prayer) begins immediately after sunset. At moderate latitudes, it ends before complete darkness approaches - 3 Rakaat
5. Isha’ (Night Prayer) begins at moderate latitudes, when the sky is completely dark and ends just before the Dawn Prayer - 4 Rakaat
Guide On How To Perform Fard Salah

My Islamic History - The 4 Caliphs

Abu Bakr 1st Caliph

Abū Bakr (Arabic: ابو بكر الصديق) (c. 573–August 23, 634/13 AH)was an early convert to Islam and a senior Sahaba (companion) of the Islamic prophet Muhammad.

Throughout his life, Abu Bakr remained the closest friend and confidant of Muhammad. Upon Muhammad's death he became the first Muslim ruler (632–634), regarded by Sunni Islam as the first of the Rashidun (four righteously guided Caliphs).

Many Sahaba were in a state of disbelief that Muhammad was dead. Abu Bakr came to the mosque and addressed the people, saying:

“ Whoever amongst you worshipped Muhammad — Muhammad is dead. But whoever worshipped Allah — Allah is alive and will never die. ”

His caliphate lasted two years and three months, during which time he consolidated the Muslim state. Upon the death of the Prophet, some tribes rebelled, and in return he fought the Ridda wars against these Arab tribes to establish the rule of law and peace over all of Arabia. He also conquered the lands of Syria and Iraq.

......... to be continued.

Umar al-Khattab 2nd Caliph

`Umar ibn al-Khattāb (in Arabic, عمر بن الخطاب) (c. 581 – November 7, 644), was an early Muslim convert from the Banu Adi clan of the Quraysh tribe,and a companion of Muhammad.

He became the second Caliph (634 – 644) following the death of Abu Bakr, and is thus regarded by Sunni Muslims as one of the Rashidun (four righteously guided Caliphs). Because of his conquests and political skills he is regarded as a pivotal figure in the history of Islam.

`Umar ibn al-Khattāb is also referred to as `Umar al-Farūq (meaning: Umar the Distinguisher [between Truth and Falsehood]) and Farooq-e-Azam (meaning: Greatest Distinguisher [between Truth and Falsehood]). He is regarded by Sunni Muslims as the second of the four Khulafā' ar-Rashīdīn (meaning: rightfully-guided caliphs). In English, he is also known as Omar or Umar.

During Umar's reign, the Islamic empire grew at an unprecedented rate, taking Mesopotamia and parts of Persia from the Sassanids (effectively ending that empire), and taking Egypt, Palestine, Syria, North Africa and Armenia from the Byzantines. Many of these conquests followed watershed battles on both the western and eastern fronts. The Battle of Yarmūk, fought near Damascus in 636, saw a small Muslim army defeat a much larger Byzantine force, permanently ending Byzantine rule south of Asia Minor. Although Islamic empire grew through battles in first days of its life, but peoples of occupied lands (specially in Pesia) had the most prominent role in improving islamic culture. Most historians believe that Umar was wrong in his war-oriented view.

......... to be continued.

Uthman Ibn Affan 3rd Caliph

‘Uthmān bn ‘Affān (Arabic: عثمان بن عفان) (c. 580 - July 17, 656) was a sahaba (companion) and son in law of the Muslim prophet Muhammad. An early convert to Islam, he played a major role in early Islamic history, most notably as the third Caliph of the Rashidun Empire (644 to death) and the compilation of the Qur'an. Revered by Sunni Muslims as one of the Rashidun (four rightly guided Caliphs) of Islam, he is sometimes criticized by the Shia Muslims.

Umar, on his death bed formed a committee of six people to choose the next Caliph from amongst themselves.

This committee was comprised of:

Ali
Uthman ibn Affan
Abdur Rahman bin Awf
Sa`d ibn Abi Waqqas
Al-Zubayr
Talhah

Umar asked, that after his death, the committee should reach the final decision within three days, and the next Caliph should take the oath of office on the fourth day. If Talhah joined the committee within this period, he was to take part in the deliberations, but if he did not return to Medina within this period, the other members of the committee could proceed to make the decision. Abdur Rahman bin Awf withdrew his eligibility to be appointed as Caliph in order to act as a moderator and began his task by interviewing each member of the committee separately. He asked them to whom they will cast their vote. When Ali was asked, he said to Uthman. When Uthman was asked, he said to Ali, Zubayr said to Ali or Uthman and Saad said to Uthman.

After Abdul Rahman consulted the other leaders of public opinion in Medina, who were in favour of Uthman, he arrived at the conclusion that the majority of the people favoured the election of Uthman. On the fourth day after the death of Umar, 11 November 644, 5 Muharram 24 Hijri, Uthman was elected as the third Caliph, with the title, "Amir al-Mu'minin".

......... to be continued.

Ali ibn Abi Talib 4th Caliph

Ali ibn Abi Talib (‘Alī ibn Abī Tālib) (Arabic: علي بن أﺑﻲ طالب) (Thirteenth of Rajab, 24 BH – Twenty-first of Ramadan, 40 AH) (approximately: March 17, 599 or 600 - February 28, 661) was the cousin, son-in-law and one of the Ahl al-Bayt of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. Shi'a Muslims glorify him as the first Imam and consider him and his descendants as the rightful successors to Muhammad who are the only legitimate religious and political leaders of the Muslim community and Sunni Muslims revere him as the fourth and final Rightly Guided Caliph, reigning from 656 to 661. This disagreement resulted in the only major split in Islam, into the Sunni and Shi'ite branches.

Ali was born in Mecca. His father was Abu Talib ibn ‘Abd al-Muttalib and his mother was Fatima bint Asad but he was raised in the household of Muhammad. When Muhammad reported that he had received a divine revelation, Ali then only about ten years old, believed him and professed Islam. He was the first male to accept Islam. Ali stood firmly in support of Muhammad during the years of persecution of Muslims in Mecca.

Ali migrated to Medina shortly after Muhammad. There Muhammad told Ali that he had been ordered by God to give his daughter, Fatimah, to Ali in marriage. For the ten years that Muhammad led the community in Medina, Ali was extremely active in his service, leading parties of warriors on battles, and carrying messages and orders. With the exception of Tabuk, Ali took part in all the battles fought for Islam during this time.

After the assassination of the third Caliph, Uthman Ibn Affan, the Companions of Muhammad in Medina chose Ali to be the new Caliph. He encountered defiance and civil war (First Fitna) during his reign. Finally while Ali was praying in the mosque of Kufa, a Khawarij assassinated him with a strike of a poison-coated sword. Ali died on the 21st of Ramadan in the city of Kufa in 661 CE.

......... to be continued.

My Islamic Values Can Be Divided In 3 Groups

1. Five Basic Values for All Mankind : Necessities/Dharuriyyat
A) Life (Physical Self)
B) Religion
C) Intellect or Knowledge (Al Aql)
D) Family Life and Offspring (Al Nasab)
E) Wealth (Al Mal)
2. Secondary Values : Conveniences/Al Hajiyyat
Conveniences comprise all activities and things that are not vital to preserve the five foundations, but rather, are needed to remove difficulties or impediments in life. Examples include the use and enjoyment of things that man can do without, but with difficulty, such as the use of some mode of transport (a car), a carpet in winter, etc.
3. Luxury Values : Refinements/Al Tahsiniyyat
This category includes items that are beyond those for convenience. They do not only remove difficulty but improve the comfort. For example, if a car is considered as an item of convenience, than a chauffeur-driven car is obviously a refinement.

10 Things That Take You Outside The Fold Of Islam

1. Shirk - Associating someone or something to Allah
Shirk is to associate anyone or anything to Allah (swt) such as to say Jesus is the son of God, Tony Blair is the legislator, Ruling byKufr law (non-Islamic law) etc. Whether one denies it or not or whether he legalises it or not; anyone who commits Shirk Akbar he will go out of the Millah (Islam) after it is explained to him by an ‘Alim. Allah (swt) says: "Verily! Allâh forgives not (the sin of) setting up partners in worship with Him, but He forgives whom he pleases sins other than that, and whoever sets up partners in worship with Allâh, has indeed strayed far away." [EMQ 4:116]

2. To take an Intercessor between you and Allah
For example, to go to the grave of a dead person and make him an intercessor for whom, the action is kufr and will take him outside of Islam. Another example is to seek such help from any so-called priest. In the time when the ‘Ulema were alive you can ask them for dua, but when they die, even from the Nabi (saw), it is not allowed, the Messenger Muhammad (saw) said: ' Oh Allah! do not make my grave a place of worship.' Rather when we go to the grave we say: 'Peace to the people of the grave, you are the ones who left first and we are following.' You can ask the one alive for dua which is mubah, but if you believe he has power, then this too is Shirk!

3. Whoever does not declare the kafir (non-Muslims) as kafir or doubts that they are kafir or says their religion is correct
There are some moderate 'Muslims' who believe we should not callthe Non-Muslims kafir (even though Allah does!) but rather 'Potential Muslims'. Whosoever doubts or believes the Kuffar are not kafir, they become kafir. At-Takfeer (declaring a person to be a Kafir) is Usul ud-Deen (one of the Foundations of the Deen) and we are obliged to defend this right of Allah (swt). Only Allah (swt) has the right to legislate and no one can claim to do so.

4. The one who thinks any Shari'ah (law and order) is similar or better than the Shari'ah of Islam is a kafir
An example of this is the one who believes British law is as good as, equal to or even better than the law of Islam! Lord Nazir Ahmed is a good example of this. He left the fold of Islam (an apostate) by declaring that Muslims must obey the British law and Shari'ah law.

5. Whoever hates any of the Shari'ah rules (Hukm Shar’ee) is a kafir
For example, those who hate to pray, to fast, to wear hijab, to call people to Islam, to work collectively in a group to establish the Islamic state etc. Allah (swt) says: '...that's because they dislike what Allah has revealed.' [EMQ 47: 9]

6. Whoever ridicules any of the deen of Islam, its rewards or its punishments
Allah (swt) says: 'Are you mocking Allah's Deen , the reward or the punishment? Do not doubt that you are kafir after Islam.' [EMQ 9: 65-66]

7. As-Shir - anyone involving themselves in magic
For example to communicate with the Jinn or to go to the magician or ask for help from the magician.

8. Alliance with the kuffar and supporting them against the Muslims
Allah (swt) says: 'O you who believe! Take not the Jews and the Christians as Awliya' (friends, protectors, helpers) they are but awliya' of each other. And if any amongst you takes them (as awliya') then surely, he is one of them. Verily, Allah guides not those people who are the Zaalimoun (i.e. Kuffar).' [EMQ5:51]

9. Whoever believes they are not obliged to follow the messenger Muhammad (saw) or believes that they can leave Islam and go to another deen is a kafir
This is self explanatory

10. Whoever turns their back to the deen of Islam
Neither studying nor acting upon it. If someone says 'so and so is haram' we must go and check it. Imam Abu Hanifah (ra) was walking on the bank and he saw a child walking on the bank and he was almost falling in, Abu Hanifah said: 'be careful you may fall in' and in response the child said: 'You too, and if you make a mistake many others will also fall in!' Imam Abu Hanifah went home andreviewed all his ahkaams and said: 'Do not think that what I say today may not be changed tomorrow if I find a hadith' etc.
Allah (swt) says: 'Who is more oppressor than the one who knows the hukm and turns his back, verily he is mujrim (i.e. a kafir).' [EMQ 32:22]

My 10 Ways To Increase Iman

1. Recite and ponder on the meanings of the Quran. Tranquility then descends and our hearts become soft. To get optimum benefit, remind yourself that Allah is speaking to you. People are described in different categories in the Quran; think of which one you find yourself in.
2. Realize the greatness of Allah. Everything is under His control. There are signs in everything we see that points us to His greatness. Everything happens according to His permission. Allah keeps track and looks after everything, even a black ant on a black rock on a black moonless night.
3. Make an effort to gain knowledge, for at least the basic things in daily life e.g. how to make wudu properly. Know the meanings behind Allah's names and attributes. People who have taqwa are those who have knowledge.
4. Attend gatherings where Allah is remembered. In such gatherings we are surrounded by angels.
5. We have to increase our good deeds. One good deed leads to another good deed. Allah will make the way easy for someone who gives charity and also make it easy for him or her to do good deeds. Good deeds must be done continuously, not in spurts.
6. We must fear the miserable end to our lives; the remembrance of death is the destroyer of pleasures.
7. Remember the different levels of akhirah, for instance when we are put in our graves, when we are judged, whether we will be in paradise or hell.
8. Make dua, realize that we need Allah. Be humble. Don't covet material things in this life.
9. Our love for Subhana Wa Ta'Ala must be shown in actions. We must hope Allah will accept our prayers, and be in constant fear that we do wrong. At night before going to sleep, we must think about what good we did during that day.
10. Realize the effects of sins and disobedience. One's imaan is increased with good deeds and our imaan is decreased by bad deeds. Everything that happens is because Allah wanted it. When calamity befalls us- it is also from Allah. It is a direct result of our disobedience to Allah.

Signs Of Weak Imaan

1. Committing sins and not feeling any guilt.
2. Having a hard heart and no desire to read the Quran.
3. Feeling too lazy to do good deeds, e.g. being late for salat
4. Neglecting the Sunnah.
5. Having mood swings, for instance being upset about petty things and bothered and irritated most of the time.
6. Not feeling anything when hearing verses from the Quran, for example when Allah warns us of punishments and His promise of glad tidings.
7. Finding difficulty in remembering Allah and making Dhikr(Remembrance of Allah, either through thought or speech).
8. Not feeling bad when things are done against the Shariah.
9. Desiring status and wealth.
10. Being mean and miserly, i.e. not wanting to part with wealth.
11. Ordering others to do good deeds when not practising them ourselves.
12. Feeling pleased when things are not progressing for others. 13. Being concerned with whether something is haram or halal only; and not avoiding makroo (not recommended) things.
14. Making fun of people who do simple good deeds, like cleaning the mosque.
15. Not feeling concerned about the situation of Muslims.
16. Not feeling the responsibility to do something to promote Islam.
17. Being unable to deal with calamities, for instance crying and yelling in funerals.
18. Liking to argue just for the sake of arguing without any proof.
19. Becoming engrossed and very involved with dunya, worldly things, i.e. feeling bad only when losing something in terms of material wealth.
20. Becoming engrossed and obsessive about ourselves.

My Halal Food

O ye people! eat of what is on earth, lawful and good; and do not follow the footsteps of the Evil One, for he is to you an avowed enemy. (AL BAQARAH, 2:168)

Forbidden to you (for food) are: dead meat, blood, the flesh of swine, and that on which hath been invoked the name of other than Allah. that which hath been killed by strangling, or by a violent blow, or by a headlong fall, or by being gored to death; that which hath been (partly) eaten by a wild animal; unless ye are able to slaughter it (in due form); that which is sacrificed on stone (altars); (forbidden) also is the division (of meat) by raffling with arrows: that is impiety. This day have those who reject faith given up all hope of your religion: yet fear them not but fear Me. This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed My favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion. But if any is forced by hunger, with no inclination to transgression, Allah is indeed Oft-forgiving, Most Merciful. (AL-MAIDAH, 5:3)

They ask thee what is lawful to them (as food). Say: lawful unto you are (all) things good and pure. (AL MA'IDAH, 5:4)

Eat of the things which Allah hath provided for you, lawful and good; but fear Allah, in whom ye believe. (AL MA'IDAH, 5:88)

The food of the People of the Book is lawful unto you and yours is lawful unto them. (AL MA'IDAH, 5:5)

So eat of the sustenance which Allah has provided for you, lawful and good; and be grateful for the favors of Allah, if it is He Whom ye serve. (AL NAHL,16:114)

"Halal" is a Quranic Term, which means 'Lawful' or 'Permitted'. Sometimes it is translated as 'Acceptable' or 'Not Forbidden'. Halal foods and drinks are permitted for consumption by Allah- the supreme lawgiver. In the Holy Quran, Allah commands Muslims and all of mankind to eat of the Halal things. Eating Halal is obligatory.

The opposite of 'Halal' is "Haram", which means 'Unlawful' or 'Prohibited'. The other words used for Haram is 'Unacceptable' or 'Forbidden'. Haram foods and drinks are absolutely prohibited for consumption by Allah. Eating Haram is forbidden for every Muslim. If a Muslim consumes Haraam foods, he would be sinful.

"Mushbooh" is an Arabic term which means 'doubtful' or 'suspected'. If one does not know the Halal or Haram status of a particular food or drink, such a food or drink is doubtful. A practicing Muslims prevents himself from consuming doubtful things.

The terms Halal and Haram will be used strictly to describe food products, meat products, cosmetics, personal care products, food ingredients, beverages and food contact materials. Which foods are Halal or which foods are Haram, is decided according to the Holy Quran and the Glorious Shari’ah (Islamic Law). Most diets and foods are considered to be Halaal unless Islamic Law specifically prohibits them.

The following products are definitely Halal:

Milk (from cows, sheeps, camels or goats).

Honey.

Fish.

Plants which are not intoxicant.

Fresh or naturally frozen vegetables.

Fresh or dried fruits.

Legumes like peanuts, cashew nuts, hazel nuts, walnuts, etc.

Grains such as wheat, rice, rye, barley, oat, etc.

Animals such as cows, sheep, goats, deer, moose, chickens, ducks, game birds, etc., are also Halal, but they must be Zabihah (slaughtered according to Islamic Rites) in order to be suitable for consumption.

The procedure is as follows: the animal must be slaughtered by a Muslim by putting the animal down on the ground (or holding it if it is small) and slitting it's throat with a very sharp knife to make sure that the main blood vessels are cut. While cutting the throat of the animal without severing it, the person has to recite "Bismillah Allah-u-Akbar".

The following items have been categorically spelled out as being Haram:

Pig/Swine/Pork and its by-products.

Blood and and blood by-products.

Carnivorous animals.

Reptiles and insects.

Halal animals which are not slaughtered according to the Islamic Law.

Animals killed in the name of anyone other than God.

The bodies of dead animals or dead before slaughtering.

Alcohol and intoxicants such as Wine, Ethyl Alcohol, and Spirits etc.

The above mentioned items are Haram and should be strictly avoided by all Muslims.

Foods containing ingredients in the following are example of Mushbooh:

Gelatin.

Enzymes.

Emulsifiers.

Lard.

Glycerol/Glycerin etc.

Muslim should avoid such foods containing Mushbooh or questionable ingredients. Before consuming such items, we have to confirm the source of these ingredients.

My Islamic Eating Manners

On the authority of Abu Huraira (may allah be pleased with him) who said the Messenger of Allah (may blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) said,
"Allah, the almighty is pure and accepts only that which is pure. Allah has commanded the faithful to do what which he commanded the messengers, and the almighty has said, `O' ye Messengers! eat of the pure things and do righteous actions.

ISLAMIC ETIQUETTES OF EATING
1. It is sunnah to wash both hands before meals
2. Say 'BISMILLAH' before commencing to eat. The food on which 'BISMILLAH' is not recited, shaytaan also partakes of it.
3. When one has forgotten to say 'BISMILLAH' he should say 'BISMILLAH AWWALUHU WA AAKHIRUHU' when he remembers during the meal.
4. When invited out, before beginning to eat one should say 'BISMILLAH WA ALA BARAKATILLAH'.
5. It is sunnah to have the head covered when having meals
6. It is sunnah to sit on the floor and eat, the sitting posture should be that of the Tashahhud in salaat, or with one thigh raised or to squat.
7. Allah showers his blessing on those who have their meals in company.
8. The food should be on the dining place before sitting down for meals.
9. It is sunnah to eat with the right hand. One should not eat with the left hand without a valid reason, for it is said the Shaytaan eats with his left hand.
10. It is sunnah to eat with three fingers, the thumb, the index finger and the middle finger. The fourth finger should be used when eating very soft foods.
11. Begin by eating the food that is in front or nearest to you. One should not begin by taking from the centre of the plate, where there is a variety of food, sweetmeats and fruit in one utensil one may eat from wherever one wishes.
12. To eat very hot steaming food is against the sunnah.
13. To blow in to the food to cool it is against the sunnah.
14. To lean against the wall or to recline while having meals is against the sunnah.
15. When one does not like some types of food then he should not express that dislike because it is better to remain silent.
16. When we eat a food that has an unpleasant smell e.g raw onions or garlic etc, the mouth should be washed so that no offensive smell is left, especially when in company.
17. If one eats with a person with an infectious disease this Duaa should be read: 'BISMILLAH THIKATAN BILLAHI WATAWAKULAN ALAIHI' meaning In the name of Allah, with confidence in Allah and humbly trusting him.
18. If there is a little food left in the plate, then it shuold be eaten.
19. After the meal the fingers should be licked. First the middle finger, then the index and lastly the thumb.
20. It is sunnah to wash the hands after meals.
21. This Duaa should be said after eating: 'ALHAMDULILLA HILLAZI AT AMAANA WASAKANA WA JA AL NA MINAL MUSLIMEEN'. Which means praise be to Allah, who fed us and gave us drinks and made us muslims.
22. It is sunnah to use a tooth pick after meals.

My Info About Henna

Henna (scientifically known as lawsonia inermis) has been well known for a long time in the Muslim world. It is extensively grown in India and Sudan, and is used mainly for cosmetic purposes.

The plant is sometimes called the "Magic Plant" because it has a great healing effect, contains many healing substances like tannine and other glue-like substances, and it has an anti-microbial and an anti-viral effect. It is natural, inexpensive, and has no known sides effects when taken orally.

Indications for its use are as follows:

Burns:
It is very effective when applied to a first or second degree burn. It:

1-reduces pain.

2-reduces fluid loss from the burn site, which is important if the area is large.
3-has an anti-microbial effect, and so reduces the risk of infection.-sticks on the wound site until healing is complete.
4-is easy to apply either in paste or powder form.
5-is inexpensive and easily available.

Healing Properties:
Henna promotes wound healing, especially chronic wounds and ulcers. The main cause of this is not known, but it may be its nourishing effect on the wound and its anti-microbial properties.

Anti-Hemorrhage Effect:
Henna has proven to be efficient in the management of nose bleeding (epistaxis), providing a long-lasting cure. One dose is generally sufficient. It is more successful than cauterization, which normally has to be repeated and cannot guarantee that there will not be a recurrence of bleeding. The only side effect of henna here is that it can cause slight sneezing. Henna can be used at other sites like a bleeding duodenal ulcer or oesophageal varicose veins, with no known side effects. Its anti-bleeding effect may be due to its coagulation or local burning properties.

Anti-Viral Effect:
Henna has an anti-viral effect. This is evident in its treatment of warts (particularly those that are resistant to liquid nitrogen treatment), Herpes Simplex (applied as a powder, it dries the vesicles at the site, prevents ulceration and crust formation, and prevents secondary infection). This benefit of henna is very promising, and should be explored further. It can also be used to treat AIDS.

My Tought Of The Day - Hadith

THE EXCELLENCE OF ADHAN

Sa’d bin Abu Waqqas(Razi allahu) reported:

The Prophet(peace be upon him) said,
”He who says after the Adhan:

‘Ash-hadu anla ilaha illallah Wah-dahu la sharika Lahu; wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan abduhu wa Rasuluhu, radhitu Billahi Rabban,wa bil Muhammadin Rasulan, wa bil Islami Dinan’

[I testify that there is no God except Allah Alone; He has no partners and that Muhammad (peace be upon him) is His slave and Messenger; I am content with Allah as my Rubb, with Muhammad as my Messenger and with Islam as my Deen],

his sins will be forgiven” [Muslim].

My Poem's

"THE WAY I AM DRESSED"

You look at me and call me oppressed,
Simply because of the way I'm dressed,
You know me not for what's inside,
You judge the clothing I wear with pride,
My body's not for your eyes to hold,You must speak to my mind, not my feminine mold,

I'm an individual,
I'm no mans slave,
It's Allah's pleasure that I only crave,
I have a voice so I will be heard,
For in my heart I carry His word,

"O ye women, wrap close your cloak,
So you won't be bothered by ignorant folk",
Man doesn't tell me to dress this way,
It's a Law from God that I obey,

Oppressed is something I'm truly NOT,
For liberation is what I've got,
It was given to me many years ago,
With the right to prosper, the right to grow,

I can climb mountains or cross the seas,
Expand my mind in all degrees,
For God Himself gave us LIB-ER-TY,
When He sent Islam, To You and Me!

Rewards Of Reading Qu'ran

1. Surah Al-Fatihah
By reading it 3 times, it is equivalent to the reward of reading 2 qurans.
2. Aayatul Qursi
By reading it 4 times, it is equivalent to the reward of reading 1 quran.
3. Surah Al-Qadr (inna anzalnaah)
By reading it 4 times, it is equilent to the reward of reading 1 quran.
4. Surah Al-Zilzal (izaa Zulzilathil)
By reading it 2 times it is equivalent to the reward of reading 1 quran.
5. Surah Al-Aadeeyat (Al-aadeeyathi Dubha)
By reading it 2 times, it is equivalent to the reward of reading 1 quran.
6. Surah Al-Thakaathur
By reading it once, it is equivalent to the reward of reading 1000 aayaths.
7. Surah Al-Nasr (itha jaa)
By reading it 4 times, it is equivalent to the reward of reading 2 quran.
8. Surah Al-Kaafiroon
By reading it 4 times, it is equivalent to the reward of reading 1 quran.
9. Surah Al Ikhlas (Qul huwallahu ahad)
By reading it 3 times, it is equivalent to the reward of reading 1 quran.
10. Surah Yasin
Prophet Muhammed(SAW) said: the person who reads it every night will be pardoned, will die as a shaheed. Prophet Muhammed(SAW) said: All thing have a heart, the heart of the Quran is surah Yasin. The person who reads surah Yasin(once), Allah will record for its reader a thawab(reward) the Quran10 times. Whoever reads the surah Yasin in the holy month of Ramadhan will receive the reward of reading 10 Qurans.
11. Surah Sajdhah
Read surathus-sajdhah everynight, Jaabir says that Prophet Muhammed(SAW) would not sleep until he would read Surathus-Sajdhah. Prophet Muhammed(SAW) said: The persons who reads surah sajdhah and surah mulk between Magrib and Isha, the reward for reading those surahs will be as though the reader had stood awake during the night of laylatul-Qadr.
12.Surah-Alwaaqiah
Prophet Muhammed(SAW) said: The one who reads Surah-Al-Waaqiah every night, poverty will not befall him. Prophet Muhammed(SAW) said: Surah waaqiah is Surathuk Ghinaa(the surah of wealth).
13. Surathul Mulk
Prophet Muhammed(SAW) said: A surah from the Quran consisting of thirty aayats interceded for a person until he was pardoned(by Allah), and that was Thabarakallathee Biyadhil Mulk(Surah Mulk). Abu Huraira narrates that suratul mulk will continue interceding on behalf of its reader, until the reader is pardoned by Allah. Prophet Muhammed(SAW) said: The Surah Al-Mulk is the great protector and deliverer, it protects and frees one from the Azzabul-Qadr(the punishment of the grave.

Thoughts of Allah At All Times

1. When You Meet a Muslim Assalamu Alaikum (Peace Be Upon You)
2. When a Muslim Greets You (a Muslim) First Walaikum Assalam (and Peace Be Upon You)
3. When Starting To Do Something Bismillah (In the Name of Allah)
4. When Intending To Do Something Insha-Allah (If Allah Wills)
5. When Taking An Oath Wallah Billah (Swearing to Allah)
6. When Something Is Being Praised Subhana-Allah (Glory Be To Allah)
7. When In Pain and Distress Ya-Allah (O' Allah)
8. When Expressing Appreciation Masha-Allah (That Which Allah Wills)
9. When Thanking Someone Jazak Allah Khair (May Allah Reward)
10. When Awakening From Sleep La-Ilaha-Ill Allah (There is None Worthy of Worship Except Allah Alone)
11. When Sneezing Alhamdu-Lillah (All Praise Be To Allah)
12. When Someone Else Sneezes Yar-Hamuk-Allah (May Allah Bestow His Mercy On You)
13. When Repenting Of A Sin Astagh-Ferrullah (May Allah Forgive)
14. When Giving To Charity Fi-Sabi-Lillah
15. When Having Love For Someone Lihub-Billah
16. When Getting Married Aman-To-Billah
17. When A Problem Appears Tawak-Kalto Al-Allah (I Trust In Allah)
18. When Unpleasantness Occurs Audhu-Billah (I Seek Refuge With Allah)
19. When Pleasantness Appears Fata-Barak-Allah
20. When Participating In Prayer Ameen (May Allah Answer)
21. When Parting From Someone Fi-Aman-Allah (May Allah Protect)
22. When Death Message Is Received Inna-Lillahi-Wa-Inna-Ilaihi Rajiun (To Allah We Belong And To Him We Shall Return)

My 10 Angels And Their Responsibilities

1. Jibril/Jibra'il جبرائيل/جبريل Angel responsible for revealing the Qur'an to Muhammad, verse by verse. Jibra'il is known as the angel who communicates with (all of) the Prophets that Muslims accept.
2. Mikail ميكائيل Angel of mercy who is responsible of bringing rain and thunder to Earth. He is also responsible for the rewards doled out to good persons in this life.
3. Israfil إسرافيل is the Angel responsible for signalling the coming of Judgment Day by blowing a horn and sending out a Blast of Truth.
4. Izrail عزرائيل the Angel of Death who along with his helpers is responsible for parting the Soul of the human from the Body. The actual process of separating the Soul from the Body depends on the person's history or record of Good or Bad deeds.
5. Mungkar/Munkar منكر is the Angel who interrogate a person in the grave about his Good and Bad deeds.
6. Nakir نكير is the Angel who interrogate a person in the grave about his Good and Bad deeds.
7. Ridhwan رضوان Gate keeper of Heaven, responsible for Heaven and welcomes the Heaven members.
8. Malik مالك Gate keeper of Hell, responsible for Hell and welcomes the Hell members.
9. Raqib رقيب is the Angel who records the Good deeds of a person.
10. Atid عتيد is the Angel who records the Bad deeds of a person.

My 5 Important Islamic Norms

1. Self Interest vs Selfsacrifice :
While the present economic order, right from a small level player to Trans National Companies, is self-centered, Islam advocates the concept of selfsacrifice. It accepts that secret of progress lies in self-sacrifice, and in holding the nation's benefit above personal benefits. Every Muslim should expend all his effort and energy for the society he belongs to. Such efforts of his would be rewarded by Allah not only in this world but hereafter also. 'Should I die, let my community live, for I have an everlasting life in my community’.

2. Extravagance vs Frugality :
The present economic world order generates profit as well as consumer in a cyclic manner. It has produced a society, which believes and practices a wasteful or extravagant life-style and considers it their right to "use" because they "have" it. This is in total contrast to Qur’anic model of modesty, simplicity and frugality.
The All-Compassionate Creator desires Thanks in return for the bounties He bestows on mankind, while wastefulness is contrary to thanks, and slights the bounty and causes loss. Frugality, however, shows respect for the bounty and is profitable. Yes, frugality is both a sort of thanks, and shows respect towards the Divine mercy manifested in the bounties, and most definitely is the cause of plenty.

3. Greed vs Contentment :
"Excess and wastefulness lead to greed, and greed has three consequences:" The First is dissatisfaction. As for dissatisfaction, it destroys endeavor and enthusiasm for work, and causes the dissatisfied person to complain instead of giving thanks, and makes him lazy. Such a person abandons possessions which though few in number are licit and seeks possessions which are illicit and free of trouble. And he sacrifices his self-respect on that way, and even his honor. The Second Consequence of Greed is disappointment and loss. The greedy person drives away what he wishes for, is found disagreeable, and is deprived of assistance and help. He even confirms the saying: 'The greedy person is unsuccessful and suffers loss.' The Third Consequence: Greed destroys sincerity and damages actions in regard to the Hereafter. For if a God-fearing person suffers from greed, he will desire the regard of others. And someone who considers the regard of others cannot have complete sincerity. This consequence is extremely important and worth noticing.
Excess and wastefulness leads to lack of contentment. And lack of contentment destroys enthusiasm for work; it causes laziness, opens the door to complaining about life, and makes the dissatisfied person complain continuously.

4. Generalizing a Crime vs Personality in Criminal Law :
The “fundamental norm” in Islam that is explained the Qur'anic verse: ‘No bearer of burdens can bear the burden of another’ which he used in its meaning of “No one is answerable for another’s faults or errors’. One of the most basic principles of “some human politics”, was “Individuals may be sacrificed for the good of the nation and society. Everything may be sacrificed for the sake of the country.” This “fundamental human law” had resulted in appalling crimes throughout history, including the two World Wars this century, which had “overturned a thousand years of human progress”, and had given the license for the annihilation of ninety innocents on account of ten criminals. Whereas the verse taught the principle that no one was responsible for another’s crimes. And no innocent person could be sacrificed without his consent, even for the whole of humanity. It establishes true justice for mankind.
We must not forget what the Qur’an states: "Namely, that no bearer of burdens can bear the burden of another" (6: 164). There is a universal rule of law: No one can be punished without evidence. Another important rule: Freedom from guilt is principal, i.e. everybody is innocent unless the opposite is proved. The Prophet is reported to have said, "A believer remains within the scope of his religion as long as he doesn't kill another person illegally."

5. Peace and Forgiveness :
In first step, Islam treats of peace in the eschatological sense, as the ultimate goal of human life, almost synonymous with salvation. A second way in which the Islam looks at peace might be called the psychological sense, as tranquility and peace of mind, an inner confidence born of faith that enables the religious believer to face adversity without anxiety or despair. Particularly when one is facing the approach of death, the believer can attain a peace of mind, which will enable the person to overcome spiritual turmoil and fear. A third aspect of peace is universal peace. It reflects the widespread conviction of the time that humankind can sink no lower in criminality towards its own kind and expresses the hope for a time of peace and prosperity for all mankind. According to Sayings for our Prophet, the virtues of civilization will prevail, the face of the earth cleaned of filth, and universal peace be secured.
Islam commands that “one believer should not be vexed with another believer for more than three days,” and that so long as there is no reconciliation, both sides perpetually suffer the torments of fear and revenge.” Islam advices us like that: ‘Look at the defect in your own soul that you do not see or do not wish to see. Deduct a share for that. As for the small share which then remains, if you respond with forgiveness, pardon, and magnanimity, in such a way as to conquer your enemy swiftly and safely, then you will have escaped all sin and harm.’ Thus, self-awareness should lead to repentance, repentance to forgiveness, forgiveness to reconciliation and the seeds for a lasting peace are laid.

25 Ways to Deal with Stress and Anxiety

Stress is life. Stress is anything that causes mental, physical, or spiritual tension. There is no running away from it. All that matters is how you deal with it.

1-Ask Him. He Listens: Dua
Turn each anxiety, each fear and each concern into a Dua (supplication). Look at it as another reason to submit to God and be in Sajdah (prostration), during which you are closest to Allah. God listens and already knows what is in your heart, but He wants you to ask Him for what you want.
Prophet said: Allah is angry with those who do not ask Him for anything
"Call on your Lord with humility and in private: for Allah loveth not those who trespass beyond bounds. Do not make mischief on the earth, after it hath been set in order, but call on Him with fear and longing (in your hearts): for the mercy of Allah is (always) near to those who do good" (Quran 7:55-56).

2-Tie your Camel: Do your Part
Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, noticed a Bedouin leaving his camel without tying it. He asked the Bedouin, "Why don't you tie down your camel?" The Bedouin answered, "I put my trust in Allah." The Prophet then said, "Tie your camel first, then put your trust in Allah"

3-Remember that human responsibility is limited
While we need to carry out our duty to the best of our abilities, always remember that you don't control the outcome of events. Even the Prophets did not control the outcome of their efforts. Regardless of the results of your efforts, you will be rewarded for the part you have played.

4-Leave the world behind you five times a day
Use the five daily prayers as a means to become more Hereafter-oriented and less attached to this temporary world. Start distancing yourself as soon as you hear Adhan, the call to prayer.
When you perform Wudu, keep repeating Shahada, the declaration of faith, as water drops slip down your face, hands, arms, and hair.
When you stand ready to pray, mentally prepare yourself to leave this world and all of its worries and stresses behind you.
Of course, Shaytan will try to distract you during prayer. But whenever this happens, go back and remember Allah. The more you return, the more Allah will reward you for it.

5-Seek help through Sabr
Sabr is often translated as patience but it is not just that. It includes self-control, perseverance, endurance, and a focussed struggle to achieve one’s goal.Unlike patience, which implies resignation, the concept of Sabr includes a duty to remain steadfast to achieve your goals despite all odds.
Being patient gives us control in situations where we feel we have little or no control. ‘We cannot control what happens to us but we can control our reaction to our circumstances’

6-Excuse Me! You are Not Running the World, He is.
It is important to remind ourselves that we don’t control all the variables in the world. God does. He is the Wise, the All-Knowing. Sometimes our limited human faculties are not able to comprehend
His wisdom behind what happens to us and to others, but knowing that He is in control and that as human beings we submit to His Will, enriches our humanity and enhances our obedience towards him.
Familiarize yourself with God's 99 Names, which are also known as His Attributes. It is a powerful way of knowing Him.
Prophet recommended reading this verse, known as Ayat al kursi, after each prayer

7-Birds Don’t Carry their Food
Allah is al Razzaq (the Provider). "How many are the creatures that carry not their own sustenance? It is Allah Who feeds them and you, for He hears and knows all things (Quran 29:60)
As Allah says in the Quran: "And He provides for him from (sources) he never could imagine. And if anyone puts his trust in Allah, sufficient is (Allah) for him. For Allah will surely accomplish His purpose. Verily, for all things has Allah appointed a due proportion (Quran 65:3).

8-God controls Life and Death
If you fear for your physical safety and security, remember that only Allah gives life and takes it back and, that He has appointed the time for it. No one can harm you except if Allah wills. As He says in the Quran: "Wherever you are, death will find you out, even if you are in towers built up strong and high!" (Quran 4:78).

9-Remember that life is short
It's easy to get caught up in our own stress and anxiety. However, if we remember that our life is short and temporary, and that the everlasting life is in the Hereafter this will put our worries in perspective. More importantly, if we handle these tests with patience, Allah will reward us for it.

10-Do Zikr, Allah, Allah!
"… without doubt in the remembrance (Zikr) of Allah do hearts find tranquility" (Quran 13:28).
If you commute, use your time in Zikr. Pick any Tasbeeh and do that instead of listening to the radio or reading the newspaper. Maybe you can divide it up between Zikr and planning.
When your heart feels heavy with stress or grief, remember Allah and surround yourself with His Zikr.
Zikr refers to all forms of the remembrance of Allah, including Salat, Tasbeeh, Tahmeed, Tahleel, making supplication (Dua), and reading Quran.
"And your Lord says: ‘Call on Me; I will answer your (prayer)…" (Quran 40:60)
"Remember Me, and I shall remember you; be grateful to Me, and deny Me not" (Quran 2:152).
11-Relying on Allah: Tawakkul
When you awaken in the morning, thank Allah for giving you life after that short death called sleep. When you step out of your home, say 'in Your Name Allah, I put my trust in Allah, and there is no power or force except with Allah' (Bismillahi Tawakal to al Allah wa la hawla wa la quwwata illa billah). At night, remember Allah, with His praises on your lips. "When you have taken a decision, put your trust in Allah" (Quran 3: 159).

12-Connect with other human beings
You are not alone. Muslims are not alone. We are not suffering in silence. There are millions of good people who are not Muslim with beautiful hearts and minds.
We must think of them, talk to them, connect with them, and pray for them. Through our connections, we will break the chain of isolation that leads to depression and anxiety.

13-Compare your dining table with that of those who don't have as much as you do
The Prophet said: Whenever you see someone better than you in wealth, face or figure, you should look at someone who is inferior to you in these respects (so that you may thank Allah for His blessings)
Next time you sit down to eat, eye the table carefully. Check out the selection of food, the quality, the taste, the quantity, and then think of the millions of others who don't have even half as much.
Also remember that the Prophet only encouraged us to compare ourselves to others in two respects: in our Islamic knowledge and level of belief in God (Deen). In these two areas, we should compare ourselves with those who have more than what we do.

14-Say it Loud: Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar: Takbirat & Adhan
Find a corner of a lake, go out in the wilderness, or even stand on your lawn at your home and call the Adhan with your heart. While driving, instead of listening to the same news over and over again, say Allahu Akbar as loudly as you can or as softly as you want, based on your mood.

15-Pray in congregation (Jamat)
Pray with other people instead of alone. If you can't pray all five prayers in congregation, at least find one or two prayers you can pray with others.

16-How is your Imam's Dua?
loud or silent..ask him to pray for others

17-Work for the Unity of Muslims
Bringing Muslims together will not only help the Muslims, but it will also encourage you to focus your energies on something constructive versus zeroing in on and consistently fretting about difficulties you are going through.

18-Sleep the way the Prophet slept
End your day on a positive note. Make Wudu, then think of your day. Thank Allah for all the good things you accomplished, like Zikr and Salat. Ask yourself what you did today to bring humanity together and what you did to help Muslims become servants of humanity.
For everything positive, say Alhamdu lillah (Praise be to Allah). For everything negative say Astaghfirullah wa atoobo ilayk (I seek Allah's forgiveness and I turn to You [Allah]).
Recite the last two chapters of the Quran, thinking and praying as you turn on your right side with your hand below your right cheek, the way the Prophet used to sleep. Then close your day with the name of Allah on your tongue. Insha Allah, you will have a good, restful night.

19-Begin the Day on a Positive Note
Get up early. Get up thanking God that He has given you another day. Alhamdu lillahil lazi ahyana bada ma amatana, wa ilaihin Nushoor (Praise be to Allah Who gave us life after death and unto Him will be the return).
Begin with the name of Allah, with Whose name nothing in the heavens or the earth can hurt you. He is the Highest and the Greatest. (Bismillahillazi la yazurru maa ismihi shaiun fil arze wa la fis samae, wahuwal Alee ul Azeem). The Prophet used to say this after every Fajr and Maghrib prayers.

20-Avoid Media Overexposure: Switch from News to Books
Don't spend too much time checking out the news on the radio, television or internet. Spend more time reading good books and journals. It's important to know what's going on but not to an extent that it ruins your day or your mood.

21-Pray for Others to Heal Yourself.
Praying for others connects you with them and helps you understand their suffering. ....either muslims or non-muslims

22-Make the Quran your Partner
Reading and listening to the Quran will help refresh our hearts and our minds. Recite it out loud or in a low voice. Listen to it in the car. When you are praying Nafl or extra prayers. Connecting to the Quran means connecting to God. Let it be a means to heal your heart of stress and worries.
"O humanity! There has come to you a direction from your Lord and a cure for all [the ills] in men’s hearts - and for those who believe, a Guidance and a Mercy" (Quran 10:57).

23-Be thankful to Allah
"If you are grateful, I will give you more" (Quran 14:7).
Counting our blessings helps us not only be grateful for what we have, but it also reminds us that we are so much better off than millions of others whether that is in terms of our health, family, financial situation, or other aspects of our life.
And being grateful for all we have helps us maintain a positive attitude in the face of worries and challenges we are facing almost daily.

24-Ideals: One step at a time
Ideals are wonderful things to pursue. But do that gradually. Think, prioritize, plan, and move forward. One step at a time.

25-Efforts not Results Count in the Eyes of Allah
Our success depends on our sincere efforts to the best of our abilities. It is the mercy of Allah that He does not demand results, Alhamdu lillah.
He is happy if He finds us making our best sincere effort. Thank you Allah!

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Sunday, April 13, 2008

THE SUNNAH WAYS OF CUTTING THE NAILS

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