assalamu alaikum
this is a lovely story shared to me by a sister.please read and comment.
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Every Friday afternoon, after the Jumma prayers, the Imam and his eleven year old son would go out into their town and hand out "PATH TO PARADISE " and other Islamic literature.
This particular and fortunate Friday afternoon, as the time came for the Imam and his son to go to the streets with their booklets, it was very cold outside, as well as pouring rain.
The boy bundled up in his warmest and driest clothes and said, 'OK, dad, I'm ready!'
His dad asked, 'Ready for what' 'Dad, it's time we go out and distribute these Islamic books.'
Dad responds, 'Son, it's very cold outside and it's pouring rain.'
The boy gives his dad a surprised look, asking, 'But Dad, aren't people still going to hell, even though it's raining?'
Dad answers, 'Son, I am not going out in this weather.'
Despondently, the boy asks, 'Dad, can I go Please'
His father hesitated for a moment then said, 'Son, you can go. Here are the booklets. Be careful son.'
'Thanks, Dad!'
And with that, he was off and out into the rain. This eleven year old boy walked the streets of the town going door to door and handing everybody he met in the street a pamphlet or a booklet.
After two hours of walking in the rain, he was soaking, bone-chilled wet and down to his VERY LAST BOOKLET. He stopped on a corner and looked for someone to hand a booklet to, but the streets were totally deserted.
Then he turned toward the first home he saw and started up the sidewalk to the front door and rang the door bell. He rang the bell, but nobody answered..
He rang it again and again, but still no one answered. He waited but still no answer.
Finally, he turned to leave, but something stopped him.
Again, he turned to the door and rang the bell and knocked loudly on the door with his fist. He waited, something holding him there on the front porch!
He rang again and this time the door slowly opened.
Standing in the doorway was a very sad-looking elderly lady. She softly asked, 'What can I do for you, son?' With radiant eyes and a smile that lit up her world, this little boy said, 'Ma'am, I'm sorry if I disturbed you, but I just want to tell you that ALLAH REALLY LOVES AND CARES FOR YOU and I came to give you my very last booklet which will tell you all about God, the real purpose of creation, and how to achieve His pleasure.'
With that, he handed her his last booklet and turned to leave.
She called to him as he departed. 'Thank you, son! And God Bless You!'
Next week on Friday afternoon after Jumma prayers, the Imam was giving some lectures. As he concludes the lectures, he asked, 'Does anybody have questions or want to say anything?'
Slowly, in the back row among the ladies, an elderly lady's voice was heard over the speaker.
'No one in this gathering knows me. I've never been here before. You see, before last Friday I was not a Muslim, and thought I could be. My husband died few years ago, leaving me totally alone in this world.. Last Friday, being a particularly cold and rainy day, i was contemplating suicide as i had no hope left.
So I took a rope and a chair and ascended the stairway into the attic of my home.. I fastened the rope securely to a rafter in the roof then stood on the chair and fastened the other end of the rope around my neck. Standing on that chair, so lonely and broken-hearted I was about to leap off, when suddenly the loud ringing of my doorbell downstairs startled me. I thought, I'll wait a minute, and whoever it is will go away.
I waited and waited, but the ringing doorbell seemed to get louder and more insistent, and then the person ringing also started knocking loudly....
I thought to myself again, 'Who on earth could this be? Nobody ever rings my bell or comes to see me.' I loosened the rope from my neck and started for the front door, all the while the bell rang louder and louder.
When I opened the door and looked I could hardly believe my eyes, for there on my front porch was the most radiant and angelic little boy I had ever seen in my life. His SMILE, oh, I could never describe it to you! The words that came from his mouth caused my heart that had long been dead TO LEAP TO LIFE as he exclaimed with a cherub-like voice, 'Ma'am, I just came to tell you that ALLAH REALLY LOVES AND CARES FOR YOU!'
Then he gave me this booklet, Path To Paradise that I now hold in my hand.
As the little angel disappeared back out into the cold and rain, I closed my door and read slowly every word of this book. Then I went up to my attic to get my rope and chair. I wouldn't be needing them any more.
You see? I am now a Happy Vicegerent of the One True God. Since the address of your congregation was stamped on the back of this booklet, I have come here to personally say THANK YOU to God's little angel who came just in the nick of time and by so doing, spared my soul from an eternity in hell.'
There was not a dry eye in the mosque. The shouts of TAKBIR...ALLAH AKBAR.. rented the air.
Imam-Dad descended from the pulpit to the front row where the little angel was seated....
He took his son in his arms and sobbed uncontrollably.
Probably no jama'at has had a more glorious moment, and probably this universe has never seen a father that was more filled with love and honor for his son... Except for One. This very one...
Blessed are your eyes for reading this message.
Don't let this message die, read it again and pass it to others. Heaven is for His people!
Remember, Allah's message CAN make the difference in the life of someone close to you.
Please share this wonderful message
Spread His Word, help Him and you'll see His hand in everything you do...
"This day I've perfected your religion for you, and completed my favor on you, and chose Islam for you as religion:"....Qur'an 5:3:
“And who is better in speech than one who calls to Allah and works righteousness and says: ‘Surely I am of the Muslims.’ ” (41: 33).
Prophet Muhammad (salaAllahu alayhi wassalam) said:
“Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to that of one who follows it.”
Umm Abdullah
A blog to empower sisters and educate them on matters of the Deen and Dunya!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Friday, March 26, 2010
Some Jumuah Reminders
assalamu alaikum,
The Best Day is Friday
Abu Hurairah (Radhi Allahu Anhu) reported: The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam) said, "The best day on which the sun has risen is Friday. On that day Adam was created, he was admitted to Jannah, and he was expelled therefrom."
[Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith tells us of the excellence of Jumu’ah. Many achievements were made on this day which also go to prove its excellent position in Islam.
[Riyadh As-Salihin]
Reading Surah al Kahf
The Prophet said: "Whoever would read Surat Al-Kahf on Friday it would provide him of light for the duration between the two Fridays."
Reporters:
'Al-'Adawee said that opinions differed about this hadeeth. He said that it was reported by 'Al-Hakim, page 564 of volume 1 who said that it was of sound ascription.
He also said that it had testimonial in a hadeeth reported by way of 'Ibn `Umar in Targheeb, page 513 of volume 1.
'Al-'Albãni said that it was reported by 'Al-Bayhaqi, and 'Al-Hakim. It is in his Saheeh Al-Jãmi`i As-Sagheeri.
Imam Ahmad recorded that Al-Bara'aa said:
"A man recited Al Kahf and there was an animal in the house which began acting in a nervous manner. He looked, and saw a fog or cloud overhead. He mentioned this to the prophet(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam) who said: "Keep on reciting so and so,for this is the tranquility which descends when one reads Quran or because of reading Quran."
This was also recorded in the Two Sahihs of al Bukhari and Muslim.
Saying Salah on the Prophet(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam)
Aws ibn Aws(radiaAllahu anhu) narrated that the prophet(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam) said:
"Indeed, among the best of your days is the day of Jumuah...Therefore, say plenty of salah upon me during it, because your salah will be presented to me(after my death)." (recorded by Abu Daud, an Nasai, and others. sahih by al Albani in Sahih Abu Daud no.962 and Sahihu Targhib wat Tarhib no.696)
Therefore one of the important rights on jumuah is to say frequent salah on the prophet(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam). This means to say "salaAllahu alayhi wassalam" which means,"Allahs peace and praise be upon him." We should say this frequently and whenever his name is mentioned, as an expression of gratitude to him, because he brought us the pure message and guidance that can save us from destruction.
Saying salah upon him is an act of worship that Allah(azza wa jall) prescribed in His book:
"Indeed, Allah and His angels say salah upon the prophet. O you who believe, say salah upon him, as well as tremendous salam." (Surah Al Ahzaab ayah 56)
The Day of Al-Jumu'ah starts from Maghrib (sunset) on Thursday till the end of Asr on Friday.
(From the book "Festivals and Celebrations in Islam" by Shaykh Muhammad al Jibaly
Collected by Umm Abdullah
The Best Day is Friday
Abu Hurairah (Radhi Allahu Anhu) reported: The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam) said, "The best day on which the sun has risen is Friday. On that day Adam was created, he was admitted to Jannah, and he was expelled therefrom."
[Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith tells us of the excellence of Jumu’ah. Many achievements were made on this day which also go to prove its excellent position in Islam.
[Riyadh As-Salihin]
Reading Surah al Kahf
The Prophet said: "Whoever would read Surat Al-Kahf on Friday it would provide him of light for the duration between the two Fridays."
Reporters:
'Al-'Adawee said that opinions differed about this hadeeth. He said that it was reported by 'Al-Hakim, page 564 of volume 1 who said that it was of sound ascription.
He also said that it had testimonial in a hadeeth reported by way of 'Ibn `Umar in Targheeb, page 513 of volume 1.
'Al-'Albãni said that it was reported by 'Al-Bayhaqi, and 'Al-Hakim. It is in his Saheeh Al-Jãmi`i As-Sagheeri.
Imam Ahmad recorded that Al-Bara'aa said:
"A man recited Al Kahf and there was an animal in the house which began acting in a nervous manner. He looked, and saw a fog or cloud overhead. He mentioned this to the prophet(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam) who said: "Keep on reciting so and so,for this is the tranquility which descends when one reads Quran or because of reading Quran."
This was also recorded in the Two Sahihs of al Bukhari and Muslim.
Saying Salah on the Prophet(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam)
Aws ibn Aws(radiaAllahu anhu) narrated that the prophet(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam) said:
"Indeed, among the best of your days is the day of Jumuah...Therefore, say plenty of salah upon me during it, because your salah will be presented to me(after my death)." (recorded by Abu Daud, an Nasai, and others. sahih by al Albani in Sahih Abu Daud no.962 and Sahihu Targhib wat Tarhib no.696)
Therefore one of the important rights on jumuah is to say frequent salah on the prophet(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam). This means to say "salaAllahu alayhi wassalam" which means,"Allahs peace and praise be upon him." We should say this frequently and whenever his name is mentioned, as an expression of gratitude to him, because he brought us the pure message and guidance that can save us from destruction.
Saying salah upon him is an act of worship that Allah(azza wa jall) prescribed in His book:
"Indeed, Allah and His angels say salah upon the prophet. O you who believe, say salah upon him, as well as tremendous salam." (Surah Al Ahzaab ayah 56)
The Day of Al-Jumu'ah starts from Maghrib (sunset) on Thursday till the end of Asr on Friday.
(From the book "Festivals and Celebrations in Islam" by Shaykh Muhammad al Jibaly
Collected by Umm Abdullah
Satin(poem)
Satin’s Words To You By Umm Hedaya
Dear foolish son of Adam,
Narr is hot
Jannah is cool
I’m taking you to hell
Because you were a fool!
For I am the devil
Who makes you do evil
And I will not stop until
Your Iman weakens and your hate
And disgust for Islam strengthens!!!
I will misguide you until
The Hour and you will be
The one that the Fire will devour!!!
Yours truly,
Satin
Dear foolish son of Adam,
Narr is hot
Jannah is cool
I’m taking you to hell
Because you were a fool!
For I am the devil
Who makes you do evil
And I will not stop until
Your Iman weakens and your hate
And disgust for Islam strengthens!!!
I will misguide you until
The Hour and you will be
The one that the Fire will devour!!!
Yours truly,
Satin
Saturday, March 20, 2010
April's Fools Day
assalamu alaikum,
In the name of Allah the Most Gracious, Most Merciful. All praise is due to the one who gave us the perfect deen and way of life,all praise and glorification belongs to the one who sent His Messenger(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam)with the guidance and truth so that it may prevail over all other false religions.
April Fool
Praise be to Allaah, we praise Him and seek His help and forgiveness. We seek refuge in Allaah from the evil of our own selves and from our evil deeds. Whomsoever Allaah guides, none can lead astray, and whomsoever He sends astray, none can guide.
Lying is an evil characteristic, which all religions and systems of ethics warn against and which man's innate common sense (fitrah) agrees that it is wrong. Those who possess chivalry and sound reason also say this.
Truthfulness is one of the pillars on which the moral survival of the world depends. It is the foundation of praiseworthy characteristics, the cornerstone of Prophethood, the result of taqwaa. Were it not for truthfulness, the rulings of all divinely-revealed laws would collapse. Acquiring the characteristic of lying is akin to shedding one's humanity, because speaking is an exclusively human trait.
(Bareeqah Mahmoodiyyah, Muhammad al-Khaadimi, 3/183)
More on APRIL'S FOOLS and ISLAM'S STANCE ON LYING(al-khadhib)
http://www.islam-qa.com/en/ref/books/99
In the name of Allah the Most Gracious, Most Merciful. All praise is due to the one who gave us the perfect deen and way of life,all praise and glorification belongs to the one who sent His Messenger(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam)with the guidance and truth so that it may prevail over all other false religions.
April Fool
Praise be to Allaah, we praise Him and seek His help and forgiveness. We seek refuge in Allaah from the evil of our own selves and from our evil deeds. Whomsoever Allaah guides, none can lead astray, and whomsoever He sends astray, none can guide.
Lying is an evil characteristic, which all religions and systems of ethics warn against and which man's innate common sense (fitrah) agrees that it is wrong. Those who possess chivalry and sound reason also say this.
Truthfulness is one of the pillars on which the moral survival of the world depends. It is the foundation of praiseworthy characteristics, the cornerstone of Prophethood, the result of taqwaa. Were it not for truthfulness, the rulings of all divinely-revealed laws would collapse. Acquiring the characteristic of lying is akin to shedding one's humanity, because speaking is an exclusively human trait.
(Bareeqah Mahmoodiyyah, Muhammad al-Khaadimi, 3/183)
More on APRIL'S FOOLS and ISLAM'S STANCE ON LYING(al-khadhib)
http://www.islam-qa.com/en/ref/books/99
Monday, March 15, 2010
My Journey from Sikhism To Islam
My Journey from Sikhism To Islam
By sister Nydiaman
I don’t know why I was hesitant to post my conversion story; I've mentioned it before briefly without mentioning Sikhism. I felt I may be mocked by other Sikhs. They may not take me seriously or consider me a traitor. However, if even just one Sikh reads this and benefits, it is worth for me to share the story. So here it goes. Another conversion story, but probably not like the ones you've heard of before.
It is important first to know some background information about the history of the Mughal empire conquering India, there is a lot of detail here, feel free to read what you want:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal_Empire
Most people consider there are only three monotheistic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Of course, only Islam is the religion where one believes in only One God without partners. However, most people (non-Muslims) would consider Sikhism as a monotheistic religion as well, as the Sikhs say they believe in One God. The Sikhs believe however the Essence of God is different, because they believe He is Omnipresent (exists everywhere in everything). Its only today that I can realize this is seriously major shirk. You have associated all of creation with God, but none is comparable to Him. Alhamdulilah, I get it now.
What the normal Sikh grows up learning is that when the Muslims (Mughals) came to India, they oppressed the Hindus. They forced them to convert, tortured them (99.9% of Sikh temples, if not more, have graphic portraits of Sikhs and their prophets being tortured by the Mughals. Such as being boiled in pots of water/oil, being sawed in half, woman with their children's body parts put on a string like a necklace around the mother's necks. Sorry to be so graphic, but I am not exaggerating. I am just trying to put you in my shoes of what the average Sikh (or probably all) sees on a daily basis, or at least once a week when they visit the temple, regardless of how religious they are or how tolerant they are).
The Sikh children grow up being told stories revolving around these portraits. They are gifted books with such graphic portraits. This is the bulk of the Sikh history we learn at home and at a Sunday school. However, we are taught all religions are different paths to the same God. I think it’s hard to be a Sikh and not grow up with a deep-rooted hatred for Muslims, even if it’s a secret hatred. However, a lot of the teachings of Sikhism are taken directly (or mixed up and combined) from Islam and Hinduism/Buddhism. However, it is impossible to have a discussion about this with a Sikh as they will become angry if you mention this. They believe their religion is unique and not taken from the polytheistic Hinduism. They will argue that they believe in one God. In fact, the first words in the Sikh Holy Book translate to exactly: there is One God (La ilaaha illa Allah to us, which is the heart of Islam). However, all (Sikhs) say He is omnipresent (everywhere), which contradicts He is One. The Sikhs will argue and describe their belief in one God in everything as a drop of water, and God is like the body of the water, so we are part of Him and somewhat separate. I no longer believe this, nor does it make sense to me anymore. But yes, once it made sense, and I did believe in it. However, it left me with a lot of other unanswered questions, such as if God is everywhere/in everything, isn’t everything worth of worship? Also, what part of us sins, our bodies or souls? Of course, our souls. So, how could that be part of a Perfect Creator?
In Sikhism, we are taught we need to overcome our egos. Now, I feel this is the most egotistic and arrogant claim, that any part of you is part of the Divine Creator. This is not a humbling belief at all. For example, if you look around you know, EVERYTHING has been created for a purpose, but the creator/maker is not physically part of it. Take a basic table (for example), it’s made for sitting at and putting dishes and food on it. The man who made it is not physically in there, not at all. The table is a sign of the maker, and he is SEPARATE from his creation. This is so basic.
Now that I've bored you (hope I haven't), I personally grew up not hating Muslims. I had Muslim friends. I hated, HATED what the Mughal Muslims did, but I personally could not associate the Mughals with all of the Muslims (as my parents and other Sikhs do). Growing up I was told to stay away from the womanizing Muslim boys and men. This is extremely common with Sikhs, to tell their children to stay away from Muslims (especially of the opposite sex) and not to listen to what they say of their religion. We are told they rip of the heads of the animals (cruelty), have 4 wives, etc. I would say similar views of the typical close minded non-Muslim.
We were also told that the Muslims killed our Prophets. Sikhism was created during the Mughal Empire's conquest of India. A man by the name of Guru Nanak came claiming he was enlightened by God, and that there was such thing as Hindu or Muslim. We are all equal and hence, his teachings are a blend of Islam and Hinduism. They and their followers rebelled against the Mughal’s Empire and would not convert. They were tortured and killed brutally.
I would say I was "safe" from the Muslims until I went to college. There I became more open minded, maybe too much to the point that I wondered what was wrong with gay marriage, two people loved each other !?! I met my husband and we married despite my parents’ disapproval and disownment. I was actually harassed quiet a lot by them (phone calls, cursing, etc). I think now there was a lot of wisdom behind this, because this got me to somewhat disconnect from Sikhism. I always wanted to know more about God growing up. I used to call upon God to make me understand Him more. I was not finding it in Sikhism, but I never even THOUGHT about leaving Sikhism. I thought if I learned about other religions, I could apply it and "add" it to Sikhism and better understand God. I don’t know why I had an urge to learn about Islam, especially after I got married.
My husband was not practicing at that time. In fact he told me once "you know what a Kaafir (disbeliever) is? A Kaafir is one who does not believe in God, so you are not a Kaafir." This always makes me laugh when I think of it now. I used to ask him questions about Islam but I didn't always get the right answer and sometimes no answer. So, I gave up asking, but I wanted to learn more. Once after having my first son, we went to Morocco where my wonderful father-in-law (may Allah bless him and have Mercy on him) gifted me the Quran in English. I was happy to get it and curious to see what this book said. My parents weren’t there to grab it and throw it or yell at me and make me feel nervous and guilty for holding it or wanting to read it. Alhamdulilah, for the distance, I don’t know if I could ever have read it without this distance. Exalted is the Wisdom of Allah, truly!
Mind you I was not familiar with the Bible or Torah or stories of the prophets. I asked my sisters in law questions, like how did Noah fit all the animals on the ark? How did Moses separate the ocean? One sister in law (may God bless her, I love her, she's mashaAllah very intelligent and a teacher) said to me do you believe God performed miracles through the prophets? She asked me if I believed God was capable of this. I said yes, definitely. She said, that is how He did it. It clicked. Now I feel stupid for not considering that. The question was simple, the answer was even simpler, and I got it.
Then when I read the Quran, I found it so strange in a good way. I said this is different, it says We (for God), like its written in first person. I never read anything like this before. It was wonderful. I got through Surat Al-Fatihah for the first time and I couldn't put it down. I used to wonder why children die, why is there suffering, hunger, poverty, etc. When I got to the line in Surat Al Baqarah where Allah says that we will be tested with loss of wealth, loss of life, etc. and give glad tidings to the patient ones, I wept. Again, I got an answer to a basic question I had that I could not find a clear answer for in the Sikh Holy Book. In the Sikh Holy Book, I was taught that affliction is a result of bad sins committed by us in our past lives. This reasoning never stuck with me, it didn’t seem fair/correct to me. However, in the Quran, the purpose of affliction was that it is a test, and the solution is to be patient. It was like my heart and my head had said the Shahaadah without me uttering it. You know it was weird, I didn't want to be a Muslim; but here I was. I could not deny it. I could not be dishonest to my soul. A few months later in Ramadan I completed reading the Quran in English and I said the Shahaadah out loud while Allah was my only Witness. It was something special to say it alone in private. It was from my heart. It was witnessed and heard by the One and Only Knower of All who had guided me. Perfect Praise be to Him.
I still find it so strange that I am the only Sikh I know that has converted to Islam. Sometimes it makes me smile and laugh, I used to go to the temple every Sunday and sing hymns there often! And sometimes I feel humbled and honored at the drastic change but peace of mind and wonder why me? I feel I have some duty to fulfill due to my conversion, like write a book or article debunking omnipresence, this is the heart of Sikhism. If they just understood that God is not omnipresent, then only Islam would be left for them to consider. Sikhism already believes God has no children. InshaAllah, one day I will.
I think the beauty of Islam is hidden from Sikhs and others behind a veil of misconceptions and deep-rooted hatred for them all due to the horrible actions of a few misguided ones. This makes me sad and I wonder how other Sikhs will ever come to Islam. However, it brings peace to me to know that it is Allah who Guides whom He wants regardless of who it is and in what circumstance they are in.
I say to the Sikhs, SEARCH! After all, Sikh means learner or to learn. Learn about other religions, Islam AND other religions. Read the Holy Books of other religions not what people have said about them. Go to the correct source, read it with an open mind and ask the Creator to guide you to the truth. If Sikhism is preferred to you over other religions, then through your study of faiths you will only come out as a stronger and more convinced Sikh. You may love Sikhism more, but you will probably question it more. I ask you, what/who are you afraid of, your parents or the truth? What is preventing you from learning the truth about Islam from the best and correct source, the Quran? In the end, aren't the Sikhs like the Muslims? Are they not supposed to fear none but God, their Creator?
Many Sikhs like to say they are Sikh by choice. In fact, my Sikh brother has a shirt that says precisely that. I feel a lot of Sikhs are Sikh by choice because they would rather choose not to disappoint their parents, their friends and they don't want to betray a minority religion whose followers were brutally tortured. Sikh by guilt/anger. I challenge any Sikh reading this to read the Quran and then tell me if you are still Sikh by choice. Do not lie to yourself, or to your Creator.
By sister Nydiaman
I don’t know why I was hesitant to post my conversion story; I've mentioned it before briefly without mentioning Sikhism. I felt I may be mocked by other Sikhs. They may not take me seriously or consider me a traitor. However, if even just one Sikh reads this and benefits, it is worth for me to share the story. So here it goes. Another conversion story, but probably not like the ones you've heard of before.
It is important first to know some background information about the history of the Mughal empire conquering India, there is a lot of detail here, feel free to read what you want:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal_Empire
Most people consider there are only three monotheistic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Of course, only Islam is the religion where one believes in only One God without partners. However, most people (non-Muslims) would consider Sikhism as a monotheistic religion as well, as the Sikhs say they believe in One God. The Sikhs believe however the Essence of God is different, because they believe He is Omnipresent (exists everywhere in everything). Its only today that I can realize this is seriously major shirk. You have associated all of creation with God, but none is comparable to Him. Alhamdulilah, I get it now.
What the normal Sikh grows up learning is that when the Muslims (Mughals) came to India, they oppressed the Hindus. They forced them to convert, tortured them (99.9% of Sikh temples, if not more, have graphic portraits of Sikhs and their prophets being tortured by the Mughals. Such as being boiled in pots of water/oil, being sawed in half, woman with their children's body parts put on a string like a necklace around the mother's necks. Sorry to be so graphic, but I am not exaggerating. I am just trying to put you in my shoes of what the average Sikh (or probably all) sees on a daily basis, or at least once a week when they visit the temple, regardless of how religious they are or how tolerant they are).
The Sikh children grow up being told stories revolving around these portraits. They are gifted books with such graphic portraits. This is the bulk of the Sikh history we learn at home and at a Sunday school. However, we are taught all religions are different paths to the same God. I think it’s hard to be a Sikh and not grow up with a deep-rooted hatred for Muslims, even if it’s a secret hatred. However, a lot of the teachings of Sikhism are taken directly (or mixed up and combined) from Islam and Hinduism/Buddhism. However, it is impossible to have a discussion about this with a Sikh as they will become angry if you mention this. They believe their religion is unique and not taken from the polytheistic Hinduism. They will argue that they believe in one God. In fact, the first words in the Sikh Holy Book translate to exactly: there is One God (La ilaaha illa Allah to us, which is the heart of Islam). However, all (Sikhs) say He is omnipresent (everywhere), which contradicts He is One. The Sikhs will argue and describe their belief in one God in everything as a drop of water, and God is like the body of the water, so we are part of Him and somewhat separate. I no longer believe this, nor does it make sense to me anymore. But yes, once it made sense, and I did believe in it. However, it left me with a lot of other unanswered questions, such as if God is everywhere/in everything, isn’t everything worth of worship? Also, what part of us sins, our bodies or souls? Of course, our souls. So, how could that be part of a Perfect Creator?
In Sikhism, we are taught we need to overcome our egos. Now, I feel this is the most egotistic and arrogant claim, that any part of you is part of the Divine Creator. This is not a humbling belief at all. For example, if you look around you know, EVERYTHING has been created for a purpose, but the creator/maker is not physically part of it. Take a basic table (for example), it’s made for sitting at and putting dishes and food on it. The man who made it is not physically in there, not at all. The table is a sign of the maker, and he is SEPARATE from his creation. This is so basic.
Now that I've bored you (hope I haven't), I personally grew up not hating Muslims. I had Muslim friends. I hated, HATED what the Mughal Muslims did, but I personally could not associate the Mughals with all of the Muslims (as my parents and other Sikhs do). Growing up I was told to stay away from the womanizing Muslim boys and men. This is extremely common with Sikhs, to tell their children to stay away from Muslims (especially of the opposite sex) and not to listen to what they say of their religion. We are told they rip of the heads of the animals (cruelty), have 4 wives, etc. I would say similar views of the typical close minded non-Muslim.
We were also told that the Muslims killed our Prophets. Sikhism was created during the Mughal Empire's conquest of India. A man by the name of Guru Nanak came claiming he was enlightened by God, and that there was such thing as Hindu or Muslim. We are all equal and hence, his teachings are a blend of Islam and Hinduism. They and their followers rebelled against the Mughal’s Empire and would not convert. They were tortured and killed brutally.
I would say I was "safe" from the Muslims until I went to college. There I became more open minded, maybe too much to the point that I wondered what was wrong with gay marriage, two people loved each other !?! I met my husband and we married despite my parents’ disapproval and disownment. I was actually harassed quiet a lot by them (phone calls, cursing, etc). I think now there was a lot of wisdom behind this, because this got me to somewhat disconnect from Sikhism. I always wanted to know more about God growing up. I used to call upon God to make me understand Him more. I was not finding it in Sikhism, but I never even THOUGHT about leaving Sikhism. I thought if I learned about other religions, I could apply it and "add" it to Sikhism and better understand God. I don’t know why I had an urge to learn about Islam, especially after I got married.
My husband was not practicing at that time. In fact he told me once "you know what a Kaafir (disbeliever) is? A Kaafir is one who does not believe in God, so you are not a Kaafir." This always makes me laugh when I think of it now. I used to ask him questions about Islam but I didn't always get the right answer and sometimes no answer. So, I gave up asking, but I wanted to learn more. Once after having my first son, we went to Morocco where my wonderful father-in-law (may Allah bless him and have Mercy on him) gifted me the Quran in English. I was happy to get it and curious to see what this book said. My parents weren’t there to grab it and throw it or yell at me and make me feel nervous and guilty for holding it or wanting to read it. Alhamdulilah, for the distance, I don’t know if I could ever have read it without this distance. Exalted is the Wisdom of Allah, truly!
Mind you I was not familiar with the Bible or Torah or stories of the prophets. I asked my sisters in law questions, like how did Noah fit all the animals on the ark? How did Moses separate the ocean? One sister in law (may God bless her, I love her, she's mashaAllah very intelligent and a teacher) said to me do you believe God performed miracles through the prophets? She asked me if I believed God was capable of this. I said yes, definitely. She said, that is how He did it. It clicked. Now I feel stupid for not considering that. The question was simple, the answer was even simpler, and I got it.
Then when I read the Quran, I found it so strange in a good way. I said this is different, it says We (for God), like its written in first person. I never read anything like this before. It was wonderful. I got through Surat Al-Fatihah for the first time and I couldn't put it down. I used to wonder why children die, why is there suffering, hunger, poverty, etc. When I got to the line in Surat Al Baqarah where Allah says that we will be tested with loss of wealth, loss of life, etc. and give glad tidings to the patient ones, I wept. Again, I got an answer to a basic question I had that I could not find a clear answer for in the Sikh Holy Book. In the Sikh Holy Book, I was taught that affliction is a result of bad sins committed by us in our past lives. This reasoning never stuck with me, it didn’t seem fair/correct to me. However, in the Quran, the purpose of affliction was that it is a test, and the solution is to be patient. It was like my heart and my head had said the Shahaadah without me uttering it. You know it was weird, I didn't want to be a Muslim; but here I was. I could not deny it. I could not be dishonest to my soul. A few months later in Ramadan I completed reading the Quran in English and I said the Shahaadah out loud while Allah was my only Witness. It was something special to say it alone in private. It was from my heart. It was witnessed and heard by the One and Only Knower of All who had guided me. Perfect Praise be to Him.
I still find it so strange that I am the only Sikh I know that has converted to Islam. Sometimes it makes me smile and laugh, I used to go to the temple every Sunday and sing hymns there often! And sometimes I feel humbled and honored at the drastic change but peace of mind and wonder why me? I feel I have some duty to fulfill due to my conversion, like write a book or article debunking omnipresence, this is the heart of Sikhism. If they just understood that God is not omnipresent, then only Islam would be left for them to consider. Sikhism already believes God has no children. InshaAllah, one day I will.
I think the beauty of Islam is hidden from Sikhs and others behind a veil of misconceptions and deep-rooted hatred for them all due to the horrible actions of a few misguided ones. This makes me sad and I wonder how other Sikhs will ever come to Islam. However, it brings peace to me to know that it is Allah who Guides whom He wants regardless of who it is and in what circumstance they are in.
I say to the Sikhs, SEARCH! After all, Sikh means learner or to learn. Learn about other religions, Islam AND other religions. Read the Holy Books of other religions not what people have said about them. Go to the correct source, read it with an open mind and ask the Creator to guide you to the truth. If Sikhism is preferred to you over other religions, then through your study of faiths you will only come out as a stronger and more convinced Sikh. You may love Sikhism more, but you will probably question it more. I ask you, what/who are you afraid of, your parents or the truth? What is preventing you from learning the truth about Islam from the best and correct source, the Quran? In the end, aren't the Sikhs like the Muslims? Are they not supposed to fear none but God, their Creator?
Many Sikhs like to say they are Sikh by choice. In fact, my Sikh brother has a shirt that says precisely that. I feel a lot of Sikhs are Sikh by choice because they would rather choose not to disappoint their parents, their friends and they don't want to betray a minority religion whose followers were brutally tortured. Sikh by guilt/anger. I challenge any Sikh reading this to read the Quran and then tell me if you are still Sikh by choice. Do not lie to yourself, or to your Creator.
Monday, March 1, 2010
احتفال بمولد النبوي وحكمه Celebrating the Mawlid and its Ruling!!
assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah,
its very sad that many muslims invent and bring things into Islam when Allah(azza wa jall) left His deen pure and complete. Allah(azza wa jall) says, "This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion."(Surah al Maidah:3)
Here are some notes on the issue of al Mawlid.
* Imran b. Husain reported Allaah's-Messenger (sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam) as saying:
The best among you (are) the people (who belong to) my age. Then those next to them, then those next to them, then those next to them. 'Imran said: I do not know whether Allaah's Messenger (sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam) said twice or thrice (the words:" Then next" ) after (saying) about his (own age but he then said): Then after them (after successors or those who would succeed them) would come a people who would give evidence before they are asked for it, and would be dishonest and not trustworthy, who would make vows but would not fulfil them, and would be significant in being bulky.(Sahih al Bukhari)
* these three generations are the prophet and his companions, the tabi'een(those who saw the sahaba and were Muslims), and the atbaa' tabi'een(those who saw the tabi'een and followed them).
* if these three generations whom the prophet was witness that they are the BEST of generations didnt practice the Mawlid, then By Allah who are we to practice this falsehood all in the name of Muslims and love for the prophet(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam)?!!
* none of the 4 first rightly guided khulafaa did this
*in fact we are told that the first 3 days after the prophet(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam) passed away,the companions didnt even wait to bury him, instead they were choosing the khalifa! Thats how important the matter was let alone them celebrating his birthday.
* if this (mawlid) was something to get closer to Allah, how can a sahabi not do it!? How can Abu Bakr not do it? How can Umar or Uthmaan not do it??
* Abul Fadhl ibn Hajar al Asqalani(rahimahullah) was asked about celebrating the prophets birthday and he replied that it is an INNOVATION and such a thing was not narrated from Salaf as-Salih from any of the first 3 generations!
*This was something that was only invented after them.
*None of the 4 imams practiced nor narrated such nonsense or its permissibility.
*it is not good to imitate the living since they are a fitna so but rather if you want to imitate someone then let them be the dead and they are the sahaba, the best after the prophets to walk this earth.(statement of Ibn Masood-radiaAllahu anhu-)
* some people use showing "love" of the prophet by practicing the Mawlid
Allah says:
" Say (O Muhammad to mankind): "If you (really) love Allah then follow me (i.e. accept Islamic Monotheism, follow the Qur'an and the Sunnah), Allah will love you and forgive you of your sins. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful."(Surah Ali Imraan:31)
this ayah is knows as "the ayah of examination" because it made the ones who claim love for the prophet to prove it by following his sunnah
ORIGIN of Mawlid:
*this tradition was started by a king known as al Mudhaffar Kukabri (549 – 630 A.H.) who was ruler of Irbil. This was also something in which the Fatimiyeen,an extremist Rawafid(shiaa) rulers at the time had influence in.
* they also use to celebrate the birthday of the prophet(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam)'s daughter
* the prophet didnt celebrate his own love and wife, Khadija bint Khuwaylid's bithday and he loved her more than anyone and then Aisha(radiaAllahu anhuma).
*the prophets wives didnt celebrate his birthday as well and they were his family!
*عن ام المؤمنين أم عبد الله عـائـشة رضي الله عنها ، قالت : قال رسول الله صلي الله صلى الله عليه وسلم (من أحدث في أمرنا هـذا مـا لـيـس مـنه فهـو رد ). رواه الـبـخـاري [ رقم : 2697 ] ، ومسلم [ رقم :1718 ].
وفي رواية لمسلم : ( مـن عـمـل عـمـلا لـيـس عـلـيه أمـرنا فهـو رد )
On the authority of the Mother of the Faithful, Umm `Abdillaah `Aaishah (radi Allaahu 'anhaa) , who said: The Messenger of Allaah (sallAllaau alayhi wa sallam) said:
“He who innovates something in this matter of ours [i.e. Islaam] that is not of it will have it rejected [by Allaah]”. [Related by al-Bukhaari and Muslim]
In one version by Muslim it reads: He who does an act which we have not commanded, will have it rejected [by Allaah].
There are always 2 conditions for a Muslim's ibadaah(worship)to be accepted(acceptable):
1.Ikhlaas or sincere intention
2.Al Itibaa' or doing this according to the prophet's sunnah and the way he did it.
عن أبي نجـيـج العـرباض بن سارية رضي الله عنه ، قال : وعـظـنا رسول الله صلي الله علية وسلم موعـظة وجلت منها القلوب ، وذرفت منها الدموع ، فـقـلـنا : يا رسول الله ! كأنها موعـظة مودع فـأوصنا ، قال : ( أوصيكم بتقوى الله ، والسمع والطاعة وإن تأمر عليكم عبد ، فإنه من يعــش منكم فسيرى اخـتـلافـا كثيرًا ، فعـليكم بسنتي وسنة الخفاء الراشدين المهديين عـضوا عـليها بالـنـواجـذ ، واياكم ومـحدثات الأمور ، فإن كل بدعة ضلاله ).
رواه أبو داود [ رقم : 4607 ] والترمذي [ رقم : 2676 ] وقال : حديث حسن صحيح
On the authority of Abu Najeeh al-'Irbaad ibn Saariyah (radiAllaahu anhu) who said :
The Messenger of Allaah (sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam) gave us a sermon by which our hearts were filled with fear and tears came to our eyes. So we said : "O Messenger of Allaah ! It is as though this is a farewell sermon, so counsel us".
He said :
I counsel you to have taqwaa (fear) of Allaah, and to listen and obey [your leader], even if a slave were to become your Ameer. Verily he among you who lives long will see great controversy, so you must keep to my Sunnah and to the Sunnah of the Khulafaa' ar-Raashideen (the Rightly Guided Caliphs), those who guide to the right way. Cling to it stubbornly [literally: with your molar teeth]. Beware of newly invented matters [in the religion], for verily every bid'ah (innovation) is misguidance.
It was related by Abu Dawood and at-Tirmidhee, who said that it was a good and sound Hadeeth.
* some Muslims use the "ok"ness of celebrating the prophet's birthdate because many Muslims do this as well but we should know that "actions are not or cannot be used as evidence"
Allah(azza wa jall) says, "And if you obey most of those in the earth, they will lead you astray from Allah's way; they follow but conjecture and they only lie."
Its RULING
http://islamqa.com/en/ref/books/95
By Umm Abdullah
its very sad that many muslims invent and bring things into Islam when Allah(azza wa jall) left His deen pure and complete. Allah(azza wa jall) says, "This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion."(Surah al Maidah:3)
Here are some notes on the issue of al Mawlid.
* Imran b. Husain reported Allaah's-Messenger (sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam) as saying:
The best among you (are) the people (who belong to) my age. Then those next to them, then those next to them, then those next to them. 'Imran said: I do not know whether Allaah's Messenger (sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam) said twice or thrice (the words:" Then next" ) after (saying) about his (own age but he then said): Then after them (after successors or those who would succeed them) would come a people who would give evidence before they are asked for it, and would be dishonest and not trustworthy, who would make vows but would not fulfil them, and would be significant in being bulky.(Sahih al Bukhari)
* these three generations are the prophet and his companions, the tabi'een(those who saw the sahaba and were Muslims), and the atbaa' tabi'een(those who saw the tabi'een and followed them).
* if these three generations whom the prophet was witness that they are the BEST of generations didnt practice the Mawlid, then By Allah who are we to practice this falsehood all in the name of Muslims and love for the prophet(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam)?!!
* none of the 4 first rightly guided khulafaa did this
*in fact we are told that the first 3 days after the prophet(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam) passed away,the companions didnt even wait to bury him, instead they were choosing the khalifa! Thats how important the matter was let alone them celebrating his birthday.
* if this (mawlid) was something to get closer to Allah, how can a sahabi not do it!? How can Abu Bakr not do it? How can Umar or Uthmaan not do it??
* Abul Fadhl ibn Hajar al Asqalani(rahimahullah) was asked about celebrating the prophets birthday and he replied that it is an INNOVATION and such a thing was not narrated from Salaf as-Salih from any of the first 3 generations!
*This was something that was only invented after them.
*None of the 4 imams practiced nor narrated such nonsense or its permissibility.
*it is not good to imitate the living since they are a fitna so but rather if you want to imitate someone then let them be the dead and they are the sahaba, the best after the prophets to walk this earth.(statement of Ibn Masood-radiaAllahu anhu-)
* some people use showing "love" of the prophet by practicing the Mawlid
Allah says:
" Say (O Muhammad to mankind): "If you (really) love Allah then follow me (i.e. accept Islamic Monotheism, follow the Qur'an and the Sunnah), Allah will love you and forgive you of your sins. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful."(Surah Ali Imraan:31)
this ayah is knows as "the ayah of examination" because it made the ones who claim love for the prophet to prove it by following his sunnah
ORIGIN of Mawlid:
*this tradition was started by a king known as al Mudhaffar Kukabri (549 – 630 A.H.) who was ruler of Irbil. This was also something in which the Fatimiyeen,an extremist Rawafid(shiaa) rulers at the time had influence in.
* they also use to celebrate the birthday of the prophet(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam)'s daughter
* the prophet didnt celebrate his own love and wife, Khadija bint Khuwaylid's bithday and he loved her more than anyone and then Aisha(radiaAllahu anhuma).
*the prophets wives didnt celebrate his birthday as well and they were his family!
*عن ام المؤمنين أم عبد الله عـائـشة رضي الله عنها ، قالت : قال رسول الله صلي الله صلى الله عليه وسلم (من أحدث في أمرنا هـذا مـا لـيـس مـنه فهـو رد ). رواه الـبـخـاري [ رقم : 2697 ] ، ومسلم [ رقم :1718 ].
وفي رواية لمسلم : ( مـن عـمـل عـمـلا لـيـس عـلـيه أمـرنا فهـو رد )
On the authority of the Mother of the Faithful, Umm `Abdillaah `Aaishah (radi Allaahu 'anhaa) , who said: The Messenger of Allaah (sallAllaau alayhi wa sallam) said:
“He who innovates something in this matter of ours [i.e. Islaam] that is not of it will have it rejected [by Allaah]”. [Related by al-Bukhaari and Muslim]
In one version by Muslim it reads: He who does an act which we have not commanded, will have it rejected [by Allaah].
There are always 2 conditions for a Muslim's ibadaah(worship)to be accepted(acceptable):
1.Ikhlaas or sincere intention
2.Al Itibaa' or doing this according to the prophet's sunnah and the way he did it.
عن أبي نجـيـج العـرباض بن سارية رضي الله عنه ، قال : وعـظـنا رسول الله صلي الله علية وسلم موعـظة وجلت منها القلوب ، وذرفت منها الدموع ، فـقـلـنا : يا رسول الله ! كأنها موعـظة مودع فـأوصنا ، قال : ( أوصيكم بتقوى الله ، والسمع والطاعة وإن تأمر عليكم عبد ، فإنه من يعــش منكم فسيرى اخـتـلافـا كثيرًا ، فعـليكم بسنتي وسنة الخفاء الراشدين المهديين عـضوا عـليها بالـنـواجـذ ، واياكم ومـحدثات الأمور ، فإن كل بدعة ضلاله ).
رواه أبو داود [ رقم : 4607 ] والترمذي [ رقم : 2676 ] وقال : حديث حسن صحيح
On the authority of Abu Najeeh al-'Irbaad ibn Saariyah (radiAllaahu anhu) who said :
The Messenger of Allaah (sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam) gave us a sermon by which our hearts were filled with fear and tears came to our eyes. So we said : "O Messenger of Allaah ! It is as though this is a farewell sermon, so counsel us".
He said :
I counsel you to have taqwaa (fear) of Allaah, and to listen and obey [your leader], even if a slave were to become your Ameer. Verily he among you who lives long will see great controversy, so you must keep to my Sunnah and to the Sunnah of the Khulafaa' ar-Raashideen (the Rightly Guided Caliphs), those who guide to the right way. Cling to it stubbornly [literally: with your molar teeth]. Beware of newly invented matters [in the religion], for verily every bid'ah (innovation) is misguidance.
It was related by Abu Dawood and at-Tirmidhee, who said that it was a good and sound Hadeeth.
* some Muslims use the "ok"ness of celebrating the prophet's birthdate because many Muslims do this as well but we should know that "actions are not or cannot be used as evidence"
Allah(azza wa jall) says, "And if you obey most of those in the earth, they will lead you astray from Allah's way; they follow but conjecture and they only lie."
Its RULING
http://islamqa.com/en/ref/books/95
By Umm Abdullah
Friday, February 12, 2010
No Excuse to Miss Salah!!!
The Story of Abdullah ibn Unays and the Salah
In the 5th of Muharram of the 4th year after tbe hijrah of the prophet(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam), the prophet(sws) sent a sahabi by the name of Abdullah ibn Unays on an operation to assassinate a man by the name of Khalid ibn Sufyan al Hudhali. The prophet(sws) said about him,
"I have been informed that Khalid is gathering a force of men to attack me. He is at 'Urana. Go to him and kill him."
Khalid ibn Sufyan was a leader of his people and a huge figure. He was was from al Hudhail tribe and they were beduins who lived in Al Hijaaz, the outskirts of Makkah. The Banu Hudhail were known as the "Poets of the Arabs" for their eloquence in poetry and Arabic.
The prophet(sws) ordered this operation to assassinate this man because he was the leader of his people and he showed hatred for Islam and the prophet (sws). He went to the extent of mobilizing his people to fight Islam. So the prophet (sws) wanted to avoid greater bloodshed by getting rid of this one man.
However, what is really interesting is that Abdullah had never seen Khalid ibn Sufyan so how on earth would he recognize him?!
The prophet(pbuh) told him, "when you see him,you will shiver." We don't know if this was because of the great presence of Khalid or a special sign for Abdullah.
The prophet sent Abdullah himself(as an army made up of himself alone!) This shows us the courage of the companions. So he traveled deep into enemy territory and discovered their camp. Abdullah saw Khalid and shivered. Abdullah said he never shivered from anyone in his life.
The time for Asr prayer had arrived but Abdullah was worried he would not be able to complete the operation on time.
Did he say to himself,"this is more important...prayer can wait... this a life and death situation...I have an excuse to not pray."
What did the companion do? He performed his Asr prayer while walking towards his target.
He said:
"and I would make ruku' and sujud with movements with my head." So he walked up to Khalid and greeted him and Khalid said to him "who are you?" and Abdullah said, "I am a man from amongst the Arabs who heard about you and your gathering a force for this man(Muhammad-sws-). Khalid replied, "Thats what I am doing." Abdullah said, "I came to follow you." Khalid believed the words of Abdullah and was convinced.
When Khalid got comfortable with Abdullah and he saw that the moment had come. Abdullah struck him and killed him. He walked away and left him with his women crouched over him. The prophet (sws) greeted Abdullah when he returned by saying, "May your face be successful." Abdullah replied, "may your face be successful, O Messenger of Allah."
The thing that concerned Abdullah when he was walking towards Khalid ibn Sufyan was the Salah and the thing that concerned the sahaba when the prophet(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam) was talking to them about The Dajjaal was none other than the great matter of Salah. The prophet mentioned to them that one day in the 40 days of ad-Dajjaal would be equal to a year. The next will be equal to a month, and so on. They asked, " O Messenger of Allah, will it be enough for us to pray the 5 daily prayers on that day(which is equal to a year)?" Just look at how salah was their first concern and nothing else! Their level of faith was truly amazing!
Abdullah ibn Unays in that life and death situation was worried more about his Salah than anything else. Are we this concerned about our prayers when we go to school, work, or anywhere? Is that the first thing that comes to our mind or is it our paycheck and salary? Think about it. What is worth more to you shows how much you love Allah ta'ala.
There is no excuse in missing the Salah. IF you dont have money you are excused from paying Zakah, if you are ill you are excused from fasting and you can pay fidya instead, if you dont have the financial ability or the road to hajj is not safe, you dont have to make hajj. There is no excuse to not pray. Even when in jihaad we are told to pray and are given the fiqh of it in Salat al Khawf. If this is the case of one who delays the prayer and has no excuse to then imagine the ruling of the one who leaves the Salah all together!
The predecessor, Abdullah ibn Shaqiq said, "The companions of Muhammad did not see the abandonment of any actions as constituting disbelief(kufr) except for the prayer." [reported by Al Tirmidhi and Al Haakim]
In the 5th of Muharram of the 4th year after tbe hijrah of the prophet(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam), the prophet(sws) sent a sahabi by the name of Abdullah ibn Unays on an operation to assassinate a man by the name of Khalid ibn Sufyan al Hudhali. The prophet(sws) said about him,
"I have been informed that Khalid is gathering a force of men to attack me. He is at 'Urana. Go to him and kill him."
Khalid ibn Sufyan was a leader of his people and a huge figure. He was was from al Hudhail tribe and they were beduins who lived in Al Hijaaz, the outskirts of Makkah. The Banu Hudhail were known as the "Poets of the Arabs" for their eloquence in poetry and Arabic.
The prophet(sws) ordered this operation to assassinate this man because he was the leader of his people and he showed hatred for Islam and the prophet (sws). He went to the extent of mobilizing his people to fight Islam. So the prophet (sws) wanted to avoid greater bloodshed by getting rid of this one man.
However, what is really interesting is that Abdullah had never seen Khalid ibn Sufyan so how on earth would he recognize him?!
The prophet(pbuh) told him, "when you see him,you will shiver." We don't know if this was because of the great presence of Khalid or a special sign for Abdullah.
The prophet sent Abdullah himself(as an army made up of himself alone!) This shows us the courage of the companions. So he traveled deep into enemy territory and discovered their camp. Abdullah saw Khalid and shivered. Abdullah said he never shivered from anyone in his life.
The time for Asr prayer had arrived but Abdullah was worried he would not be able to complete the operation on time.
Did he say to himself,"this is more important...prayer can wait... this a life and death situation...I have an excuse to not pray."
What did the companion do? He performed his Asr prayer while walking towards his target.
He said:
"and I would make ruku' and sujud with movements with my head." So he walked up to Khalid and greeted him and Khalid said to him "who are you?" and Abdullah said, "I am a man from amongst the Arabs who heard about you and your gathering a force for this man(Muhammad-sws-). Khalid replied, "Thats what I am doing." Abdullah said, "I came to follow you." Khalid believed the words of Abdullah and was convinced.
When Khalid got comfortable with Abdullah and he saw that the moment had come. Abdullah struck him and killed him. He walked away and left him with his women crouched over him. The prophet (sws) greeted Abdullah when he returned by saying, "May your face be successful." Abdullah replied, "may your face be successful, O Messenger of Allah."
The thing that concerned Abdullah when he was walking towards Khalid ibn Sufyan was the Salah and the thing that concerned the sahaba when the prophet(salaAllahu alayhi wassalam) was talking to them about The Dajjaal was none other than the great matter of Salah. The prophet mentioned to them that one day in the 40 days of ad-Dajjaal would be equal to a year. The next will be equal to a month, and so on. They asked, " O Messenger of Allah, will it be enough for us to pray the 5 daily prayers on that day(which is equal to a year)?" Just look at how salah was their first concern and nothing else! Their level of faith was truly amazing!
Abdullah ibn Unays in that life and death situation was worried more about his Salah than anything else. Are we this concerned about our prayers when we go to school, work, or anywhere? Is that the first thing that comes to our mind or is it our paycheck and salary? Think about it. What is worth more to you shows how much you love Allah ta'ala.
There is no excuse in missing the Salah. IF you dont have money you are excused from paying Zakah, if you are ill you are excused from fasting and you can pay fidya instead, if you dont have the financial ability or the road to hajj is not safe, you dont have to make hajj. There is no excuse to not pray. Even when in jihaad we are told to pray and are given the fiqh of it in Salat al Khawf. If this is the case of one who delays the prayer and has no excuse to then imagine the ruling of the one who leaves the Salah all together!
The predecessor, Abdullah ibn Shaqiq said, "The companions of Muhammad did not see the abandonment of any actions as constituting disbelief(kufr) except for the prayer." [reported by Al Tirmidhi and Al Haakim]
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