THE REASON FOR THE CREATION OF MAN

THE REASON FOR THE CREATION OF MAN

Every creation of the Almighty Allah has been created for some specific reason and purpose, namely, the sun, the trees, water, the wind. Explaining the purpose for the creation of Man, the Almighty Allah states: Wa ma khalaqtul Jinna wal insa illa liya'budun - "I have not created Man and Jinn, but that they worship Me." (Ad Dhaariyat: Verse 56)
Worship can only be performed if there is recognition. In other words, mankind and Jinn have been created to recognize the Almighty Allah. The question that arises is, what is the outcome of this recognition? It means that the more we recognize Allah, the more we worship Him.

From the above discussion we come to realize that mankind has been created to recognize Allah, and by doing so we become closer. In other words, closeness to Allah is the pinnacle of glory in the life of mankind.

By understanding this, we must examine its connotation, it's results and it's meaning in the light of Islamic Law.

There is a Hadith-e-Qudsi found in the Sahih Bukhari explaining this: The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has explained that the Almighty Allah has stated: "He who has caused enmity with My Wali (Friend), I give him declaration of war. Among those acts through which My slave achieves My closeness, the most beloved are the Fardh (Compulsory) acts. My slave also achieves My closeness through the Nafil (Optional) deeds, till I make him into My beloved. When he becomes My beloved, I become his ears through which he listens, his eyes through which he sees, his hands by which he holds, his feet by which he walks. When he pleads to Me for anything I definitely bestow it on him. When he seeks refuge in Me from any bad deed, then I definitely save him from it."
Some individuals state that only after achieving this status does the slave refrain from all bad deeds. This thought is a flagrant misinterpretation of the Tradition, for any person possessing a little common sense will tell you that after refraining from all bad deeds, does the slave achieve this status. In other words, after he has adopted piety and abstinence, does he stand any chance of becoming the beloved.

In the following verse, Almighty Allah is explaining how we can achieve His closeness. He states: Kul in kuntum tuhiboonal laaha fattabi'ooni yuh'bibkumul laahu - "Say (O Muhammad to them), if you love Allah follow me, Allah will love you." (Surah Ale Imraan: Verse 31)

In other words, after we have adopted piety and abstinence in following the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), will we have any chance of becoming a beloved? The slave first refrains from bad deeds and actions. He then performs the Fardh and Nafil acts continuously. Then only does he become the beloved. It is not possible for him to continue performing evil deeds and still feels he can become the beloved servant of Allah.

Imam Fakhrudeen Raazi (radi Allahu anhu) in his "Tafseer Kabeer", explains the above Hadith: "In the same manner, if the slave continuously adopts good deeds, then he indeed reaches that stage of which the Almighty Allah states that He becomes the slaves eye and ear. When the Magnificent Noor (Light) of Allah becomes the eye of the slave, then the slave perceives things near and distant. When this Light becomes the hand of the slave, then he, the slave, is then able to dispense with things easy and difficult, near and far."

We also come to realize from this explanation that the beloved slaves of Allah have been given the power to help and assist. Once we have proved this, how can we call it Shirk if we implore them for assistance? It can never be Shirk, for although the slave and the Creator can help and assist, remember that the Creator Possesses this Attribute without it being given to Him by anyone. The slave, on the other hand, possesses these attributes after it has been given to him by Almighty Allah, and we still believe that the slave is the servant of Allah and is still subservient to Him. This is the belief of all Muslims.
When we have understood and accepted this, the difference between Tauheed and Shirk becomes quite clear, yet, unfortunately, there are certain individuals who state that they believe in Allah, yet consider asking His beloved slaves for assistance as Shirk. If this indeed be their faith, then what, we ask of you, is Kufr?

It also seems to be the habit of these "believers" to relate verses meant for the Kufaar towards Muslims, perhaps they are merely following the habit of their forefathers. It is recorded in the Sahih Bukhari, that Hazrat Abdullah Ibn Omar (radi Allahu anhuma) used to despise the Khaariji sect the most. Why? Let us see. He considered them the worst of creation. He used to say that "these people have made it a practice of theirs, that whatever verse has been revealed against the idol worshippers, they relate these verses towards the Muslims."

DIVINITY CANNOT BE GIVEN

DIVINITY CANNOT BE GIVEN

Indeed, Almighty Allah, through His Mercy, may bestow upon His slave whatever powers He wishes, yet He would not bestow Divinity, which is Permanent and Independent, the attributes given to His slave are not permanent or even independent. The Idol worshippers believed that because of the tremendous worship performed by the Idols, "Laat" and "Manaat", Almighty Allah set them free to do as they pleased. Based on this belief, the Idol worshippers believed that their Idols have been given Divinity and God-head. Any person who believes that Almighty Allah has given His certain slave God-head and Divinity has committed Shirk. There is no doubt in this. This is another difference between the Muslim and the Idol worshipper. The Muslim believes that the servant of Allah will always remain a servant and can never become one possessing God-head and Divinity.

DEEDS PERFORMED BY THE SLAVE THROUGH THE PERMISSION OF ALLAH CAN NEVER BE TERMED SHIRK

The Almighty Allah states in the Holy Quran: Man zal lazi yashfa'u indahoo illa bi izni. "Who is it that can intercede with Him, except with His permission." (Surah Baqara: Verse 225)
From this Quranic injunction, an important fact is becoming apparent to us. Almighty Allah is quite clearly stating to us that not everyone will be given permission to intercede except those to whom He has given permission. It is also a warning to the Idol worshippers, in that they should not believe and hold high esteem of their Idols considering that their Idols have never been given permission to intercede for their worshippers. This clearly proves that their Idols are totally useless.

The beloved slaves of Allah, on the other hand, have been given permission to intercede. The first to intercede will be the Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) as proven by many authentic sources. Thereafter, the other Prophets, the Martyrs (Shuhada), the Saints, etc. Another important fact we must always bear in mind is that if an individual performs a duty without the Permission of Allah, then this would be considered Shirk, whereas if a duty has been allocated, as will be discussed shortly, then this cannot be considered Shirk.

The Holy Quran is evidence of Hazrat 'Isa (alaihis salaam) explaining to his nation some of his amazing miracles. This serves as a reminder to all, of the power and authority bestowed by Allah upon His beloved servants. He states: Wa ubri'ul akmaha wal abrasa wa uh'yil mawta bi iznillahi - "I heal those who are born blind and the leper and I raise the dead by Allah's permission." (Surah Ale Imraan: Verse 49)

We know that to perform amazing duties as explained by Hazrat 'Isa (alaihis salaam) is indeed the Grace of the Almighty Allah, yet this great Prophet is actually stating that he can perform them. Is he guilty (Allah forbid!) of committing Shirk? No, for he has clearly proven by one verse the difference between Shirk and Tauheed.

When he has said, "these duties are performed through the permission of Allah", immediately, the question of Shirk is dismissed and the entire concept becomes one of Tauheed. Keeping this in mind, when Muslims state that great Prophets and Saints can perform miracles and do so with the Permission of Allah, how can any sensible person call this action as being Shirk. This belief is purely Tauheed.

If one questions this and states that a Muslim cannot perform these amazing duties (of miracles and interceding) then he is contradicting numerous Quranic verses and Ahadith wherein amazing qualities and attributes of the special servants of Allah are explained.

?HAS THE ALMIGHTY ALLAH GIVEN MAN POWER AND AUTHORITY

?HAS THE ALMIGHTY ALLAH GIVEN MAN POWER AND AUTHORITY

The answer to this is quite simple. If man has not been given power and authority, then what indeed is the difference between him and stone? We know that the Almighty Allah Possesses Power and Authority. We also know that He has created these attributes within man. You may well ask, if both possess power and authority, then what is the difference? The answer to this is quite simple. If one applies the above law and principle, there is no doubt that the Almighty Allah Possesses Power and Authority, yet, although possessing these Attributes, He is not subservient to anyone, neither have these Attributes been given to Him by anyone. His slave, man, on the other hand, possesses these attributes of power and authority, yet, he is still subservient to the Almighty Allah, and these attributes are not his, rather they have been bestowed upon him by the Almighty Allah.

THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE ALMIGHTY ALLAH AND HIS SLAVE

This very same principle as explained above, can be applicable to the question of Knowledge, Seeing, Listening, and other Attributes. The Almighty Allah Possesses these Attributes and so does the slave. No one has given these Qualities to Allah, whilst the slave, on the other hand, has been accorded these attributes by Almighty Allah. This is, in fact, one of the clear differences between the Almighty Allah and His slave.

We understand that if an attribute which is conferred to any slave has been bestowed upon the slave by the Almighty Allah, then this belief cannot be labeled as Shirk. For example, if we relate the quality of "hearing" to a slave, we must therefore believe that this attribute of "hearing" has been bestowed upon the slave by the Grace of Allah, then this belief cannot be termed Shirk.

At this point an important question arises. Applying the above principle, we ask, why is it that we condemn the Idol worshippers who also believe that their Idols have been given these amazing powers by Allah. Are they not using the very same principle, which we are applying?

The answer to this question is quite clear and simple. When the Idol worshipper believed that their Idols were a creation of Allah, they also should have believed that the slave is undoubtedly in bondage to the Creator. Without the Creator, the creation cannot come into being. They also should have believed and accepted that, as in life or in death, the slave is in need of the Creator. But, they refused to believe and accept this principle, that is, Allah's Authority.

They began to believe that although their Idols were a creation, Almighty Allah had given the Idols Divinity and total "God-head". They believed that after creating their Idols, there was now no need for submission towards Almighty Allah to complete (Allah forbid!) because their Idols could do whatever it wished, even if Almighty Allah had not commanded it to do a certain thing. The Idol worshippers could not understand this very simple principle, that is, that the creation can never to totally independent of Almighty Allah.

THE MEANING OF TAUHEED

THE MEANING OF TAUHEED

The meaning of "Tauheed" is to believe that there is no Partner to Allah in His Being and in His Attributes. In other words, how Almighty Allah is, we do not believe that there is another being like Him. If any person believes on the contrary, then his belief would constitute Shirk. We should remember that the attributes of Allah, among others, include the act of Listening, Seeing and Possessing Knowledge. If any individual believes that another possesses these Attributes, he will be guilty of Shirk.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TAUHEED AND SHIRK

After we have understood the meaning of Tauheed, the natural question that arises is, if knowledge which is one of the Attributes of Allah is ascribed for another individual, will this really mean that we are guilty of Shirk? We know that Listening and Seeing are also among the Attributes of Allah. If we prove these very attributes for another individual, will we be guilty of Shirk? In the very same manner, the Attributes of Living is also among the Attributes of Allah. If we ascribe this attribute for another individual will we again be guilty of Shirk?

THE DIFFERENCE

No! Dear Muslim Brothers and Sisters, do not be deceived by those who hope to mislead you. You should remember that indeed Almighty Allah possesses the Attribute of "Living", yet He has, also through His Mercy, bestowed upon His Creation this very quality. The attribute of living though which we relate to ourselves is not the same Attribute of Living as we relate to Allah. The difference is that His Attribute of Living is non-bestowed, while the attribute of living which we posses is one which we have been bestowed with by Allah. The attribute of living which He has bestowed upon us is temporary and non-eternal, while His Attribute of Living is Eternal and non-bestowed.

If this principle and law is applied to all qualities and attributes, then the question of Shirk will never arise. It is simple, yet, as we have mentioned earlier, those Muslims whose sole aim is to deprive Islam of its unity, peace and harmony, intentionally make it difficult so that the simple-minded Muslims become confused and misguided.

 

Tauheed or Shirk

Tauheed or Shirk

by
HAZRAT ALLAMA SYED AHMED SA'EED KAAZMI (RAHMATULLAH ALAIH

PREFACE

This book is intended to protect Muslims from all misconceptions and misunderstandings prevalent in the Muslim community, in so far as the belief in seeking assistance from great Prophets and Saints is concerned.

Allama Syed Ahmed Sa'eed Kaazmi Shah Saheb (Alaihi rahma) was a great Aalim, Scholar and a specialist in the Field of Hadith and Tafseer, to which he made a voluminous contribution. He earned the title of "Ghazzali-e-Zamaan" or "The Ghazzali of the Age". In this treatise, he clearly distinguishes between "Shirk" and "Tauheed". He does so in an extremely simple manner, so that all Muslims are able to understand. This policy of his is based on the principle of education and the acquisition of knowledge which is compulsory in the life of all Muslims, man or woman.

The aim of the writer is not one of trivial argument and discussion based on hearsay, rather, it is to make the public aware and to educate them on practices followed by the first generation of Muslims, yet these practices are mocked by a few "enlightened Modern-day" Muslims.

May Allah assist and guide those Muslims who are instrumental in producing this book and all those involved in the protection of the pristine faith of Islam. Aameen.
Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem

THE UNITY OF ALLAH

The Being of the Almighty Allah is indeed One. It is only those who are ignorant and persist in being ignorant need an explanation on how Almighty Allah is One and is actually Present. Those who are Allah-conscious do not desire an explanation on this subject of Tauheed and Shirk. They in fact accept without questioning. There is a famous proverb in the Arabic language which is as follows: Al Ashyaa'u tu'rafa bi azdaadihi - "Objects are indeed understood by its opposites."

For example, peace can only be understood and appreciated by that person who has felt and experienced anxiety. That person though who has not felt anxiety, cannot appreciate peace. In the same manner, Day cannot be understood if a person has not experienced the Night. Likewise, if a person has not comprehended misguidance how is it possible for him to understand guidance? Using this very principle, we may ask, if a person has not understood "Shirk" or Polytheism, how is it possible for him to appreciate or comprehend "Tauheed" or Monotheism? It is, therefore, only logical that after we have understood Shirk can we then understand Tauheed.

The Almighty Allah has in fact very clearly explained the action Shirk and Tauheed, thereby completely eradicating the concept of non-religion. It is very surprising that after explaining the differences in the concept of Tauheed and Shirk so clearly, there are still doubts in the minds of those whose sole duty it is to destroy the concept or fundamentals of unity found in Islam.

 

Benefits of Duaa

Benefits of Duaa

Numan bin Basheer narrates from Rasool-Allah , "Duaa is ibadat." Then He read this ayat . (Tirmizi, Abu Dawod, and Ibn-e-Majah)

Abu Hurairah narrates from Rasool-Allah , "In the court of Allah, there is no greater thing than duaa" (Ibn-e-Majah)

Abdullah bin Umar narrates from Rasool-Allah ," Among whatever has been descended and whatever has not been descended Duaa is beneficial of all. Oh people of Allah! Assume Duaa a must for yourselves. (Tirmizi)

Abdullah bin Umar from Rasool-Allah , "For whoever the door of duaa opened, for him the doors of mercy are opened. Whatever duaa is asked from Allah the best duaa is for well-being and safety among them." (Tirmizi)

Abu Hurairah narrates from Rasool-Allah , "Allah is extremely displeased with the person who doesn't do duaa to Allah". (Tirmizi)

Salman narrates from Rasool-Allah , "Your Rab is modest and kind. A person raise his hands in HIS court and HE leave them empty, Allah shies from it." (Tirmizi and Abu Dawood)

Jabir narrates from Rasool-Allah , "Whoever does duaa to Allah, Allah fulfills his seeking or in exchange averts misfortune until the duaa is not related to sin or breaking some relation." (Tirmizi)

Abu Hurairah narrates from Rasool-Allah , "Do duaa to Allah with this confidence that HE will accept it and know this well that Allah doesn't accept the duaa done with a negligent and careless heart. (Tirmizi)

Salman Farsi narrates from Rasool-Allah , "Duaa turns away destiny and good deeds lengthen age. (Tirmizi)

Umar narrates that, "Whenever Rasool-Allah raised his hands for duaa He did not put down them down until HE took both hands over his face." (Tirmizi)

Aisha (Radi Allahu Anha) narrates that, "Rasool-Allah liked duaas that were inclusive and he left the rest." (Abu Dawood)

Abdullah bin Umar narrates from Rasool-Allah , "Duaa for a person not present is accepted quickly by Allah." (Tirmizi and Abu Dawood)

Abu Hurairah narrates from Rasool-Allah , "Three duaas are such in which there is no doubt of their acceptance: 1) Father's duaa 2) Traveler's duaa 3) Duaa of the oppressed". (Timizi, Ibne Majah)

Abu Hurairah narrates from Rasool-Allah , "Three types of people's duaas are not rejected: 1) At the time of iftar the person who has fasted 2) Adil ruler's duaa 3) The duaa of the oppressed. Allah raises the duaa of the oppressed on the clouds and the doors of heaven are opened for it and Allah says, "Oath of MY Majesty and Honour! I will help and aid you. Even though if the help is after few days." (Tirmizi)

Abu Hurairah narrates from Rasool-Allah , "When anyone of you does duaa then don't say "Oh Allah! Forgive me if you want", "Have mercy on me if you want", "Give me subsistence if you wish" rather believe completely that HE will do whatever HE wishes. Nobody can force HIM." (Bukhari)

Abu Hurairah narrates from Rasool-Allah , "Allah excepts the duaa of a person till the duaa is not related to sin or breaking of some relation and until he does not haste in that duaa. The people (May Allah be happy with them) asked, "Oh Rasool-Allah! What is meant by haste?" He replied, "That the person say "I did duaa again and again but my duaa wasn't accepted and afterwards he becomes hopeless and leaves the duaa. This is called haste." (Muslim)

Jabir narrates from Rasool-Allah , "Don't do Bad-duaa [against] yourself, your wealth, or for your children. May it be the moment of acceptance in the court of Allah and your Bad-duaa be accepted. (Muslim)

Boraidah narrates that Rasool-Allah heard a man performing duaa like so *1, so He said, "He [the man] has performed duaa with the Ism-e-Azam and when Allah is asked through the Ism-e-Azam, Allah grants and when duaa is performed with it HE accepts it." (Tirmizi and Abu Dawood)

Asma binte Yazeed (Radi Allahu Anha) narrates from Rasool-Allah , "Ism-e-Azam is in these two ayahs and in the beginning of Ale-Imran . " (Tirmizi and Abu Dawood)

Abu Hurairah narrates from Rasool-Allah , "Saying is dearer to me than this world and all that is in it." (Mislim)

Abu Hurairah narrates from Rasool-Allah , "Whoever said hundred times in one day his sins are erased even if they are equal to the foam of the sea." (Muslim and Bukhari)

Abu Hurairah narrates from Rasool-Allah , "Every Prophet had a special duaa which is accepted in the court of Allah. All Prophets were in quick in their duaas. On the day of Judgment, for the intercession of my Ummah, I have saved my duaa. My duaa will reach to every person in my ummah, who did not make any partners with Allah. (Muslim)

*1

Etiquette of Eating

Etiquette of Eating

Aisha Siddiqa (Radi Allahu anha) narrates that the Prophet of Allah said, "Whenever one eats then he should say the name of Allah (say ) and if he forgets to say Bismillah in the beginning then he should say, "" (Tirmizi, Abu Dawood, and Hakim)

Wahshi Bin Harb (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates that the Prophet of Allah said, "Eat together and read , in this, there is blessing for you." (Masnad Imam-e-Ahmad, Sunan-e-Abi Dawood, Ibne Majah)

Jabir Bin Abdullah (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates that the Prophet of Allah said, "Whenever someone enters the house and at the time of entering and eating recites , the Shaitan says to his offspring that "you will not be able to live or eat in this home", and if at the time of entrance one doesn't read then he [the devil] says "that you have found a place to live" and if someone doesn't read at the time of eating then he says "you found a place to live and you have found food." (Sahih Muslim)

Amr Bin Abi Salma (Radi Allahu anhuma) narrates that I was child in the care of the Prophet of Allah . While eating I would put my mouth on every side of the dish. Rasul-Allah said, "After reading , eat from the right side and eat from that side of the dish which is nearer to you. (Bukhari and Muslim)

Jabir Bin Abdullah and Asma (Radi Allahu anhuma) narrate that Rasul-Allah said, "Cool your meal because there is no blessing in hot food. (Rawahul-Hakim and Abu Dawood)

Abu Saeed Khizri (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates that the Prophet of Allah used to recite after eating food. (Tirmizi)

Aqba Bin Amir (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates Rasul-Allah said, "That meal which has not been read on is illness and there is no blessing in it. The compensation for it is that if the table cloth has not been picked up then read and eat something and if the table cloth has been picked up then read and a lick the fingers. (Ibn Asakar)

Ans Bin Malik (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates that Rasul-Allah said, "Whenever you eat or drink, read this, then you will not get any illness even if it has poison: (Rawahul Daylmee)

Abdullah Bin Umar (Radi Allahu anhuma) narrates that Rasul-Allah said, "When one eats then he should eat with the right hand and when one drinks then he should drink with the right hand. (Bukhari & Muslim)

Ka'ab Bin Malik (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates Rasul-Allah would eat with three fingers and before wiping would lick them with the tongue. (Bukhari and Muslim)

Jabir bin Abdullah (Radi Allahu anhuma) narrates that Rasul-Allah said, "Lick the fingers and the dish. You don't know which part of meal has blessings." (Sahih Muslim)

Nobelsha (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates from Rasul-Allah said, "Whoever, after eating will lick the dish, that dish will do Istighfar for him. (Tirmizi and Musnad-e-Imam Ahmad)

Abdullah Bin Abbas (Radi Allahu anhuma) narrates the Prophet of Allah said, "Do not blow from your mouth into food and water." (Rawahe Tibrani)

Aisha Siddiqa (Radi Allahu anha) narrates that Rasul-Allah entered the house and saw some fallen bread. He picked it up, wiped it, and ate it. Afterwards He said, "Aisha, respect good things. When this thing (bread) runs away from a nation it doesn't return." (Ibn-e-Majah)

Abdullah Bin Umme Haraam (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates that Rasul-Allah said, "Respect bread. It is from the blessings of the skies and earth. Whoever eats fallen bread from the table cloth for him there is Maghfirah [salvation]. (Rawahe Tibrani)

Aisha Siddiqa (Radi Allahu anha) narrates that Rasul-Allah said,"Do not get up from From food (DastarKhawan-Mat) until Food has been picked up" (Ibn-e-Majah)

Abudllah Bin Umar (Radi Allahu anhuma) narrates that Rasul-Allah said, "When the table cloth is chosen, no one should stand until the table cloth is picked up and he should not take away his hand from the food until all have finished eating. If he his going to stop his hands from the food, he should excuse himself because without excusing (oneself) to stopping the hands will embarrass the other person sitting on the table cloth and he too will pull his hands from the food and it's possible that he might still necessitate food.

Ans Bin Malik (Radi Allahu anhuma) narrates that Rasul-Allah said, "Whoever wants that Allah Ta'ala increase blessings and goodness in his home then he should do wudu when the food is presented in front of him and do wudu when it is picked i.e., wash the hands and the mouth. (Ibn-e-Maajah)

Abu Hurairah (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates that the Rasul-Allah said, "If there is the smell of grease on one's hand and he sleeps without washing the hands and some problem reaches him then he should blame himself. (Tirmizi, Abu Dawood, and Ibn-e-Maajah)

Abu Abs Bin Jabr (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates that Rasul-Allah said, "Take off the shoes while eating because this is the better way." (Rawahul Hakim)

Abu Jahefa (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates from Rasul-Allah said, "I don't eat while (resting) on a pillow. (Bukhari)

Zikr of Allah

Zikr of Allah

Abu Darda narrated that Rasool Allah said, “Should I not tell you of such a thinga which are the best and purest deeds in the court of your Lord, high in ranks (darajat), better for you then spending gold and silver (in Allah’s path), and better than slaying the neck of the enemy during war? The Sahaba said, “Yes, Oh Rasool Allah! .” He said, “It is Zikr of Allah.” (Tirmizi)

Abu Huraira narrated that Rasool Allah said, “Any gathering in which people sit and do not do Zikr of Allah and do not send Durood upon their Prophet is of loss for them. If Allah wills, give them azab (punishment) and if wills, forgive them.” (Tirmizi)

Abu Huraira narrated that Rasool Allah said, “Allah Tabaraka wa Ta’ala says when a person moves his lips for Zikr of Allah, I am with him. “ (Bukhari)

Abu Huraira narrated that Rasool Allah said, “Allah Tabaraka wa Ta’ala says I am closer to my slave than his supposition of which he keeps of me. And when he/her does Zikr of Allah, I am with him/her. If he does Zikr in his heart, I do his Zikr near MY proximity (closeness) and if he does Zikr in a gathering, I mention him in a gathering Afdhal (better) than it. (Bukhari)

Abu Musa Ash'ari narrated that Rasool Allah said, “He/She who does Zikr of Allah and he/she who doesn’t, their example is of like an alive and a dead. (Bukhari)

Abu Huraira said that Rasool Allah said, “The angels look for those who do Zikr of Allah on the paths. When they find those who are doing Zikr of Allah then they call each other, “Come, your desired has been found.” Then those angels cover those are doing Zikr of Allah up to the skies of this world with their wings. And Allah Rabbul Izzat says about them to those angels “What are my slave doing?” Though Allah knows more than those angels. The angels say, “Those people are doing your Tasbeeh, Tahmeed, and Tamjeed.” Rab Ta’ala says, “Have they seen me?” The angels say, “We swear by your pure Entity, they have not seen you.” Rab Ta’ala says to them, “If they had seen me then what would be their state?” The angels say, “If they could’ve seen you then they would do your Tamjeed and your Tasbeeh even more."

Rab Ta’ala says, “What slaves are asking from me?” The angels say, “They are asking for Jannat from you.” Rab Ta’ala says, “Have they seen Jannat?” The angels say, “We swear by Your Pure Entity, they have not seen Jannat.” Rab Ta’ala says, “If they had seen Jannat then what would be their state?” The angels say, “If these people had seen jannat then their greed, desire, and inclination for it would increase. Rab Ta’ala says, “What else are they doing?” The angels say, “They are seeking refuge.” Rab Ta’ala says, “From what are they seeking refuge?” The angels say, “They are seeking refuge from Hell.” Rab Ta’ala says, “Have they seen Hell?” The angels say, “Oh Rab, we swear by Your Pure Entity, they have not seen it.” Rab Ta’ala, “If they had seen it then what would be their state?” The angels say, “If they had seen it then they would run even further away from it and fear it even more.

Rab Ta’ala says, “angels, Be witnesses that I have forgiven them.” An angel says, “There is one person amongst them who is not part of those who do Zikr, he is there for some necessity of his/her.” Rab Ta’ala says, “These are such people that even those sitting among them are not deprived.” (Bukhari)

Anas narrated that Rasool Allah said, “When you pass by gardens of paradise, eat fruits of them. The Sahaba said, “What are the gardens of Paradise?” He said, “The gatherings of Zikr.” (Tirmizi)

Abu Huraira narrated Abu Saeed Khudri said that Rasool Allah said, “Whenever a Jama'at (a group of people) sits for Zikr of Allah, the angels surround it. Blessing covers that Jama'at. And peace and calm descends on them. And Allah mentions them to the angels present in HIS court. (Muslim)

Ameer Muaviah narrated that the Rasool Allah passed by a Jama'at and asked them, “Why have you gathered here?” Some people of the Jammat replied, “We have gathered here for the Zikr and Hamd of Allah because by guiding us towards Islam He did favor on us. Rasool Allah said, “By Allah, have you gathered only for this (purpose)?” They said, “By Allah, we have gathered here only for such purpose. Rasool Allah said, “I did not give you oath because of any imputation (doubt) rather it is because Jibraeel came to me and told me that Allah Azzawajal boasts of you in the gathering of the angels. (Muslim)

Abdullah Bin Abbas narrated that Rasool Allah said, “The Shaitan sticks to the heart of the child of Adam. When he does Zikr of Allah, he (the Shaitan) runs away from him. And when the child of Adam becomes careless from the Zikr of Allah, the Shaitan begins to put was-wasah (evil suggestions) into his heart. (Bukhari)

Abdullah Bin Umar narrated that Rasool Allah said, “Don’t have a conversation [without] Zikr of Allah. Because talking too much without Zikr of Allah is the reason for the heart’s hardness and wretchedness. And that person becomes distant from Allah in whose heart there is wretchedness. (Tirmizi)

Abudullah Bin Bisr narrated that one person asked, “Ya Rasool Allah! There are many commands on me of Islam. Tell me of such a thing which I may hold on to steadfast. Rasool Allah replied, “Always keep your tongue wet from Zikr of Allah.” (Tirmizi)

Abdullah Bin Bisr narrated that a villager came to the Holy Court of Rasool Allah and asked, “Which man is the best?” Rasool Allah said, “It is the luck and good-fortune of that person whose life is long and his deeds are good.” He asked, “Ya Rasool Allah! Which deed is the best?” Rasool Allah said, “Your tongue be wet from Zikr of Allah when you part from this world. (Tirmizi)

Muaaz bin Jabal narrated that Rasool Allah said, “The people of Jannat will only regret that moment which had been empty of Zikr of Allah.” (Beheqi)

IMAM SHAAFEE 150 A.H. - 204 A.H

IMAM SHAAFEE (150 A.H. - 204 A.H.) Mohammed bin Idris Al Shaafa'ee (radi Allahu anhu) famously known as Imam Shaafa'ee was born in 150 A.H. and belonged to the Quraish tribe.

EARLY LIFE

When he was 10 years old, he came to Makkatul Mukarramah from Palestine where he grew up. He was very intelligent and had an excellent memory. He memorized the entire Holy Quran at the age of 7. By the age of 15, he had memorized the entire Muwatta of Imam Maalik (radi Allahu anhu). Before the age of 20, he studied Islamic Jurisprudence under the Mufti of Makkatul Mukarramah, Sayyiduna Muslim bin Khalil al Zanji and also Sayyiduna Sufyaan bin Uyayana (radi Allahu anhuma). Imam Maalik bin Anas (radi Allahu anhu) was also his teacher.

IN  IRAQ

When the Governor of Iraq visited Madinatul Munawwarah, he was so impressed by Imam Shaafa'ee (radi Allahu anhu) that he persuaded him to become an Administrator. As Imam Shaafa'ee (radi Allahu anhu) was in conflict with the Government officials, he was deported to Iraq and brought in front of Haroun Rasheed who was very impressed with Imam Shaafa'ee (radi Allahu anhu).

He now studied Islamic Jurisprudence under Imam Mohammed Ash Shaybaani (radi Allahu anhu), who was the student of Imam Abu Yusuf (radi Allahu anhu), who was the student of Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (radi Allahu anhu). Thus, Imam Shaafa'ee (radi Allahu anhu) became a master of both the Hanafi and Shaafa'ee School of Fiqh.

IN EGYPT

On his way to Egypt, he lectured in Makkatul Mukarramah in the Haram Shareef. Imam Ahmed bin Hambal (radi Allahu anhu), who was studying at the time in Makkatul Mukarramah found great benefit from these lectures. Imam Shaafa'ee (radi Allahu anhu) then went to Baghdad where he spent 3 or 4 years and finally went to Egypt. He was now 50 years old.

In Egypt, scholars from all over the world came to study at his feet. His famous pupils were Sayyiduna Rabi bin Sulayman, Sayyiduna Abu Yacoob Al Ruwayta and Sayyiduna Abu Ebraheem bin Yahya Al Muzani (radi Allahu anhumul ajma'in).

HIS WORKS

Kitaabul Umm and "Ar Risaalah" are the two famous books on Islamic Fiqh written by him.

PASSES AWAY 

Some reports say that he was injured seriously by a person called Fityan, while other reports mention that he passed away through natural illness on the last day of Rajab in the year 204 A.H.in Egypt. Maalik Al Kaamil, the Ayyubid Sultan, built a Mazaar for him in 608 A.H. 

Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa 80 A.H. - 150 A.H

Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa 80 A.H. - 150 A.H

Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (radi Allahu anhu's) full name was Numan bin Thaabit bin Zuta bin Mah. He was born in Kufa in Iraq in 80 A.H. He belonged to the pious period of the Taabi'ins (Successors of the Sahabas).

DIVINE MISSION

It is stated in a Hadith Shareef which Imam al-Harizmi reported from Sayyiduna Abu Hurayrah (radi Allahu anhumA) that Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "Among my Ummah, there will come a man called Abu Hanifa. On the Day of Resurrection, he will be the light of my Ummah." Another Hadith Shareef states: "In every century, a number of my Ummah will attain to high grades. Abu Hanifa will be the highest of his time." These two Ahadith are recorded in "Durr al-Mukhtar."

 EARLY LIFE

While still in his youth, he met great Sahaba like Sayyiduna Anas bin Maalik, Sayyiduna Sahl bin Saad and Sayyiduna Abul Tufail Amir bin Wathilah (radi Allahu anhumul ajma'in). Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (radi Allahu anhu) was first brought up as a trader, but soon started taking deep interest in Islamic learning.

EDUCATION

He attended the lectures of Sayyiduna Hammad Basri (radi Allah anhu) in Fiqh and then began to study the Hadith. He learnt under great scholars in Kufa. In Basrah he studied under two great Taabi'ie scholars who had learnt Hadith under the Sahaba.

In Makkatul Mukarammah and Madinatul Munawwarah, he learnt under Sayyiduna Ata bin Abi Rabah and Sayyiduna Ikramah (radi Allahu anhuma). In fact, Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (radi Allahu anhu) had numerous teachers. Some historians say that he learnt Hadith from about 4 000 scholars.

Some of his famous teachers were: Sayyiduna Imam Baaqir, Sayyiduna Imam Jafer Saadiq, Sayyiduna Ali, Sayyiduna Abu Hurayrah, Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar, Sayyiduna Aqabah bin Umar, Sayyiduna Safwaan, Sayyiduna Jabir and Sayyiduna Abu Qatadah (radi Allahu anhumul ajma'in).

AS A TEACHER

When his teacher, Sayyiduna Hammad Basri (radi Allahu anhu) passed away, Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (radi Allahu anhu) was 40 years old and he began teaching. He became very famous and travelled many places. Students from all over the Muslim world came to him to listen to his lectures, interviews and debates. Imam Maalik (radi Allahu anhu) also learnt under him.

When he was 56 years old, Caliph Mansur came to power after the Ummayad dynasty was overthrown by the Abbasids in 132 A.H. Since Imam Abu Hanifa (radi Allahu anhu) opposed the Caliph's ruthless killing of the Ahle Bait, he was arrested. The Caliph offered the Imam the post of a Qaadi (Judge), but he refused. The Caliph Mansur had him beaten with a stick 30 strokes. His feet bled. Caliph Mansur repented and offered Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (radi Allahu anhu) 30 000 pieces of silver. The great Imam refused once more. He was imprisoned again and thrashed 10 more strokes every day.

PASSES AWAY

In the Month of Rajab 150 A.H., Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (radi Allahu anhu) passed away while in Salaah. He had been poisoned by the orders of Caliph Mansur. His Janaza Salaah was performed six times and each time 50 000 people took part. People continued to come and pray for him for 20 days after he was buried. He was 70 years old.

In 459 A.H. a Mazaar (Tomb) was built for him by the Seljuki ruler Alp Arsalan. He lies buried in a Tomb situated near Baghdad in Iraq.

PERSONALITY

Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (radi Allahu anhu) earned his living by trading. Every Friday, he distributed 20 gold coins to the poor for his parents soul. For 40 years Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (radi Allahu anhu) performed the Fajr Salaah with the Wudu that he made for the Esha Salaah (ie. he did not sleep after the night prayer). He performed Hajj 55 times. He used to recite the entire Holy Quran once every day and once every night. Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (radi Allahu anhu) had so much of Taqwa (Piety) that for 30 years he fasted every day (except for the 5 forbidden days). He often read the Holy Quran in one rakaah or two. He did not accept any presents from anyone. He wore clothes like those of the poor. Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa (radi Allahu anhu) once said: "I laughed once in my life and I regret it." He talked little and thought much. It is said that at the place where his soul was taken, he read the Holy Quran 7 000 times.

Introduction of FIQAH

Introduction of FIQAH

Imam A'zam Abu Hanifa, Imam Maalik, Imam Shaafi and Imam Ahmed bin Hambal (radi Allahu anhumul ajma'in)are the leaders of the four schools of Fiqh (Islamic Law).

FIQH  is the Science of Islamic Law or Jurisprudence. It refers to the collection and compilation of Islamic laws based on the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). These great Muslims devoted themselves to the task of developing the science of understanding Islamic Law and its practise.

Although they differed from each other, all the four great Imams had great respect for each other. They were all teachers and pupils of each other for the common goal of enhancing their knowledge about Islam. All of them were unanimous on Aqa'ids (Islamic Beliefs). We, as Muslims, must respect the different Sunni schools of thought.

ABSTAINING FROM MISGUIDED GROUPS

ABSTAINING FROM MISGUIDED GROUPS

 The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) clearly warned his Ummah to completely abstain from joining in the gatherings of or listening to the words of any of the other misguided groups that will appear amongst the Muslims, whose beliefs will contradict the beliefs of the largest group of Muslims. 

The beliefs of the largest group of Muslims will be in accordance with the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), the beliefs of the Sahaba and the Salf-e-Saliheen. 

The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "In the period prior to the Day of Judgement, false and deceitful groups will emerge. They will say things to you, which neither you nor your forefathers will have ever heard before. Stay away from these deceitful people and do not let them come near you! Do not be misguided by them and do not let them cause strife amongst you!" (Sahih Muslim)

DIVISIONS IN THE UMMAH

 The concept of the Muslim nation separating into 73 sects, is taken from authentic Ahadith such as the following related by Hazrat Abu Hurairah (radi Allahu anhu): "The Messenger of Allah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: 'The Jews separated into 71 sects, and the Christians into 72, and my nation will divide into 73 sects.'" (Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah)

 The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "Seventy-two (of the 73 sects of the Muslim nation) will be in the fire, and only one will be in Paradise; it is the Jama'ah (i.e. Ahle Sunnah Wa Jamaah)." (Abi Dawud, Ad-Darimi, Ahmad)

 There is another narration which states: "The Companions asked: 'Which sect will triumph (i.e. achieve salvation)?' The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) replied: 'The sect which adheres to that (set of beliefs and practices) which I and my Companions adhere to.'"

 It should be clear from these Ahadith that the one sect, out of the 73, which is to gain salvation, is the Ahle Sunnah Wa Jamaah, the only segment of the Muslim community which adheres to that which the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and his Companions (radi Allahu anhum) adhered to.

OPINION OF GREAT SCHOLARS AND SAINTS

 Ghousal Azam, Hazrat Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jilani (radi allahu anhu) states: "There are 73 groups as foretold by Sayyiduna Rasoolallah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and (bear in mind that), the Ahle Sunnat wal Jamaat was the rightful group". (Ghunyatut Taalibeen) 

Imam Ghazzali (radi Allahu anhu) writes: "The Ahle Sunnat Wal Jammat is the successful Firqah (group) and it is this Firqa which weighs or determines its thoughts and its according to the scales of the Holy Quran". (Mujarribaate Imam Ghazal) 

Hazrat Sha Wali'ullah Muhaddith Dehlawi (radi Allahu anhu) states: "As Rasoolallah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has stated, follow this 'Sawad-e-Azam', and when the four Madhabs are within the Sawad-e-Azam then the following of any one of them, is followance of the Sawad-e-Azam. Therefore, refuting any one of them is refuting the Sawad-e-Azam". (Aqdul Jayyad) 

Imam Sufyan Souri (radi Allahu anhu) states: "By Sawad-e-Azam is meant those who are called the Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat". (Al Mizaanul Qubra) 

Shah Abdul Aziz Muhaddith Dehlawi (radi Allahu anhu) states in his book "Fatawa Azeezi" (Vol. 2, pg. 4) that: "The various parts of the Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat in Aqaa'id such as the Ash'ariya, the Maaturadi, in Fiqh such as the Hanifa, the Shafi'i, the Hambali, in Tassawwaf such as the Qaaderi, the Chisti, Naqshabandi, the Suhurwardi, this servant considers all of them to be the truth". 

Imam Rabbani, Mujaddid Alif Thaani (radi allahu anhu) states in the second chapter, page 67 of his "Maktubaat Shareef" that: "The way of salvation is followance of the Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat. May Almighty Allah Ta'ala bestow blessings upon the Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat, in their speech, in their actions, laws, for this is the successful group. Besides this, all other groups have become victims of deception. Today, nobody realises how much these misled groups will be punished, however, on the Day of Qiyamah this secret will become apparent. Even though at that time this knowledge will be of no benefit to the misled."

WHO ARE THE AHLE SUNNAT WAL JAMAAT

WHO ARE THE AHLE SUNNAT WAL JAMAAT

 The Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat is the largest group of Muslims and the only group whose beliefs and teachings are truly in accordance with the Holy Quran and Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

 The beliefs of this group are the same as the beliefs of the Sahaba or noble companions of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and the Salf-e-Saliheen (our great pious predecessors).

 In many Ahadith, the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) strongly advised the Muslims to follow his Sunnah and to remain steadfast upon the path of his Sahaba, the Salf-e-Saliheen and the majority of Muslims to remain steadfast upon the way of the Ahle Sunnah.

 The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "I have left two things behind me for you (the Ummah). You will never go astray as long as you follow these two things. One of these two things is Allah's Holy Book (the Holy Quran) and the other is the Sunnah of his Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)." (Muwatta Imam Malik)

 The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said that after he passes away his Ummah should remain firmly steadfast upon his Sunnah and upon the way of his four Muslim Caliphs. He advised us to follow this path alone and to be beware of innovations, which contradict the Holy Quran and his Sunnah. (Abu Dawud; Tirmizi)

 The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "Follow the way of the largest group of Muslims! For, he who deviates from this group will be thrown into Hell!" (Ibn Maja

REMAINING WITH THE AHLE SUNNAT WAL JAMAAT

 The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) advised us to remain firm with the largest group of Muslims and remain steadfast upon their way in beliefs and in actions.

 The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "Allah will never allow my Ummah to unite upon misguidance and incorrect beliefs. Allah's mercy, blessings and protection are with the largest group of Muslims. And he who deviates from this largest group of Muslims will be thrown into Hell." (Tirmizi)

 The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "He who deviates from the largest group of Muslims, even as much as a hand span, has himself cut off his connection with Islam". (Abu Dawud)