The End

Assalam Alaykum,
This day has been a little overdue now, in my opinion, and whilst the blog has helped me Islamically and perhaps maybe even a few of you along the way, its time to call it a day.

All the content will remain here on the site for the time being but I shall not be updating any longer.

On a more positive note, I will be posting and updating over at Haq Islam (this was the project I had been busy working on lately, even still its not completely finished) and for all those subscribed to the newsletter for this blog you will continue to receive updates for Haq Islam instead. Should you no longer require updates, jusy click unsubscribe from the next newsletter you receive.

I ask you all to forgive me if I have ever said or done anything wrong and request you to make dua for me, my family and all the Muslim Ummah.

Jazakallah
Wasalams
Your brother in islam, Ahmed.

Assalam Alaykum

Assalam Alaykum,
My apologies for not updating in almost a month. I have been busy working on a project which i nearing completion inshallah and then I shall resume with posts as per normal.
I have also not been well these past couple of days...

Please remember me n your duas.

Wasalam

Watch your thoughts

Watch your thoughts; they become words.
Watch your words; they become actions.
Watch your actions; they become habits.
Watch your habits; they become character.
Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.
Frank Outlaw

Prayer

Prayer is an open line to God.
No network problem, no low battery, no connection error, no charging, always good signals and all messages sent.
Author unknown

Respect the Ulama

Imam Abdul Wahab Sha’rani (R) writes: A covenant was made with us (Muslims) on behalf of Rasulullah (Sallallahu-Alaihi-wasallam) that we respect the Ulama, the saintly and the elders, whether they themselves act according to their knowledge or not. And that we shall continue to discharge their necessary rights and entrust their personal matter to Allah Ta’ala.

Whosoever fails to discharge the Ulama’s rights and fails to show them the necessary respect and honor is indeed guilty of sin towards Allah and His Rasul (Sallallahu-Alaihi-wasallam), for the Ulama are the successors of the Ambiya (AS), the heirs of Rasulullah (Sallallahu-Alaihi-wasallam), the bearers of the Shariah and they are His servants. When anyone insults them, the insults set forth a chain reaction which reaches Rasulullah (Sallallahu-Alaihi-wasallam).
This is Kufr.

Now think for yourself: The king appoints someone as his ambassador. The king will with attention listen to this ambassador and debar the insulter from his court. On the other hand, the king will make a favorite out of that man who showed respect and honor to his ambassador and who discharged the rights due to his emissary.
(al-I’tidaal of H.Sheikh)

Deprivation of the Negligent

During heavy rainfall if a person was to complain that he has not managed to collect water, then all present would conclude that this was because of his sheer negligence and laxity.

Likewise in Ramadhan only the extremely negligent remain deprived because the Mercy and Forgiveness of Allah ta’ala descends in torrents.
Shaykh Saleem Dhorat - www.idauk.org

Wake Up!

Author Unknown

"Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar" you hear the athaan go on.
But you still decide to procrastinate, even when your family yells, "Come on!"

You think, "I still have time, before I really have to pray, 'Asr is still hours away."
Your head is saying "Go" but the Shaytaan is saying "No" so you go on anyway.

You go to your bed and decide to lie down, for just a few minutes you say.
But when your head hits the pillow, your body is overcome by a feeling, different than any other way.

You suddenly feel hot and nervous, and your throat is parched and dry.
You hear a voice call, "Why did you disobey me?" But you are unable to answer why.

Suddenly your life flashes before your eyes,
And feelings of guilt and regret are becoming hard to disguise.

Images and thoughts run through your head,
If only you did more useful things, but you wasted your time instead.

Every ill word you said, and every prayer you missed is presented,
If only you took life more seriously...if only you repented.

You say, "I didn't know any better, I never knew to take a closer look"
But the voice replies, "Yes you did, you had The Holy Book."

"In it you will find the meaning of life, and words of inspiration.
And the perfect example for mankind, the Prophet who received the revelation."

"This life is but a stage, a mere drop compared to an ocean,
"So think not of the worldly things, and make sure that in your heart lies devotion."

You wake up suddenly, alarmed and quivering.
"I wasted so much time!" you think, "good words and prayers I should be delivering."

You pray, and then afterwards do some reflection,
And you decide to give your life a thorough inspection.

This life is so unpredictable; it can vanish very soon,
All that you see will perish, and only your deeds will remain with you.

So hold on to the Quran and the way of the Prophet (saw) for salvation,
And do not delay what you must do, remember Jannah, the ultimate destination.

Make the most of Ramadan

Assalam Alaykum,
Ramadan Mubrak to you all! I thought it would be good to share some general advice on making the most of Ramadan, so here are some brief points below.
Please remember me and my family in your duas.
Wasalam

• Perform all prayers on time and with congregation (especially for males)
• Do not waste time doing Eid shopping or eating with friends and other family members just because it is Ramadan
• Reduce worldly and business commitments to a minimum
• Increase the recitation of the Quran, Zikr and Tasbeeh
• Increase Nafl (optional) Salah or perform Qaza Salah as much as possible
• Make a total commitment to avoid all sins. If any sins are committed, (major or minor), make taubah (repent) immediately
• Free the mind from all evil thoughts and make an effort to reform oneself (eg. remove pride, hatred, jealousy, anger, looking down upon others, etc.)
• Increase acts of charity and assist the needy as much as possible. Do not forget to pay your Zakat.
• Spend time reading good Islamic books (eg. Teachings of Islam, Bahishti Zewar, Good Character, Upbringing of Children etc.)
• Make plenty of dua for yourself, your family and the Ummah, especially in the period before the time for Iftar

Bear in mind that each of one of us will be asked by Allah how we spent our Ramadhan . Let us not forget that we will be punished equally for our sins just as we are rewarded for our good deeds.

Three Companions

In this world you have three companions:

one is faithful, the others are treacherous.
The latter are friends and possessions;
the faithful one is excellence in deeds.
Your wealth won't come with you out of your palace;
your friend will come, but only as far as the grave.

When the day of doom comes to meet you,
your friend will say, "I've come this far, but no farther.
I will stand a while at your grave."

Your deeds alone are faithful: make them your refuge,
for they alone will accompany you into the depths of the tomb.

Mathnawi of Maulana Jalal al-Din al-Rumi

Walking to the Masjid

Abu Hurayra رضى الله تعالى عنه reported that the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said,


"Anyone who purifies himself in his house and then goes to one of the houses of Allah to fulfil one of the obligations of Allah, one step removes an error and the other raises him a degree." [Muslim]

Best Teaching

The best mode of instruction is to practise what we preach.
Persian Proverb

Worthy Actions

That action is worthy to pursue which brings you close to Allah Ta'ala and elevates you. And those actions which do not bring the nearness of Allah Ta'ala are not worth pursuing.
Extract from '99 Golden Advices for All Saalikeen' by Maulana Muhammad Zakariyya

The Crow and Eagle

“Anwaar-e-Suhaili is a well known Persian book. In it has been narrated a very thought provoking story:

Once a man saw a crow whose wings were cut. He thought, “poor thing, how is it going to survive? From where shall it get its food?” Hardly a moment had passed when that person spotted an eagle carrying some prey in its beak. The eagle came closer, landed and fed the crow.

On seeing this the man thought “ This is how Allah provides for His creatures, so why should I worry about earning a living. Allah will provide for me.” So he sat down and remained idle. Some days passed but yet the person did not get anything. One wise man said to him “ O servant of Allah, you were shown two birds, one injured crow and an eagle. Why did you prefer to become like the crow? Why did you not think about becoming like the eagle who not only eats himself but also feeds others who are in need?

This story illustrates very well the real nature of ‘Tawakkul’. IF anyone has yet means of livelihood at his disposal, then he should not give up those means. His case is a like that of the eagle. He should not only fulfil his own needs but also look after others. “
Taken from “the World Within” by Mufti Muhammad Shafi (late grand mufti of Pakistan)
Source : Tears of Realisation

Wudu

Ordered by the Creator,
Wudu to clean and protect.
Ablution of the body and soul
to condition and correct.

Hands are washed 5 times a day
along with arms and face and head
ears and feet are also cleaned
to allow our sins be shed.

And when we've wiped our unhappiness clear,
we feel the mercy of Gods way.
And know that we are only helping ourselves,
when we bow our heads to pray.

This action of sheer glory,
this routine of pure delight.
Allows the soul to rest in ease
as it sleeps throughout the night.

And when the ignorant insult their own
knowledge when the call us filth and dirt,
It really doesn't matter what they think,
so long no one else gets hurt.

And when we stand as equals,
rows of prayers known as Salah,
Wudu, it keeps us presentable
during our meeting with Allah.
Author unknown

Good Father

One good father can do more than 100 schoolmasters.
Persian proverb

Words

The wound of words is worse than the wound of swords.
Arab Proverb

Corrosion of the Heart

Hadhrat Abu Hurairah (رضى الله تعالى عنه) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu صلى الله عليه وسلم) said:

When the Mu’min sins, a black spot forms on his heart. If he makes istighfaar and taubah, the black mark is removed and his heart is purified. If he increases his sin, the black mark increases. This is the corrosion of the heart spoken of by Allah Ta’ala (in the Qur’an)
[Ahmad, Tirmizi, Ibn Majah]
Source: Hayatul Muslimeen

Failure

Many students succumb to such drastic measures. Some students work and study extremely hard but fail. Due to failure, they sink into such depression that they feel they have to take or inject themselves with drugs, tranquilizers, etc. for sleep. Why ?…Because they failed.

If a person did not make Tadbeer, i.e. did not make a serious and concerted effort and thereafter fails, then he must blame himself. However, generally, we do make a reasonable effort but sometimes still meet with failure. For example : A person is fit and healthy when he started something but later becomes sick and is unable to complete what he undertook.

Tafweez is placing our matters before Allah Ta’ala, handing them over to Him, and trusting completely in Him, believing that there is goodness in whatever Allah Ta’ala has decided. Outwardly, it may appear as if there is some problem that we are faced with, but great wisdom lies in the decisions of Allah.

Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) has said : “Strive to acquire what is beneficial for you; seek the aid of Allah; do not lose courage and if a setback overtakes you, do not say : ‘If I had done this then it would have happened like this (i.e. not what had happened).’ Instead say : ‘Allah has ordained this. Whatever He has willed, has happened.’”
by Maulana Yunus Patel

Azaan in Newborn Baby's Ears

It is narrated on the authority of Abu Rafi (Radiallahu Anhu) that the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) called out the Azaan in the ear of his grandson Hasan Bin Ali (Radiallahu Anhuma) when Sayyidah Faatimah (Radiallahu Anha) gave birth to him.

(Abu Dawood, Tirmizi )

Alhumdulillah I was able to act upon this sunnah with the recent arrival of our baby son. Please remember us all in your duas.

Wasalam

Remembrance of God

Remembrance of God instills in us a desire for the journey, and makes us into travellers.
Divan-i Shams

The Young Hafiz

There was a young man, who got to know about a precious stone. He decided not to come back to his house till he finds the stone. So he left his house with a little provision. He sat down to sketch a map on a notebook. He had a very long route to cover, but he stuck to his ambition and had very high hopes.

He believed that if he found the stone he would not have to work anymore and would become the wealthiest person. All his worries and problems would be finished. Everyone would respect him. Ultimately he would become a successful man.

He traveled through many countries, cities, towns, jungles, and mountains in search of the stone for forty years.

At last while he was passing by an ancient mine he found the stone underneath a heavy rock but by then he had become very old and frail looking person.

Holding the stone tightly in his fist, he started jumping with great joy and happiness. Suddenly he saw a young boy sitting by the stream, reciting the Quraan-e-Kareem in a beautiful tone.

The boy's penetrating words of the Quraan-e-Hakeem struck the man's heart. It seemed that trees, birds, water all were listening to his Quraan.

He thought to himself that he had become too old and weak, so why not give the stone this young man.

The man came up to the boy and said, young man, may I have your attention please. I have traveled through many countries, Cities, towns, jungles and mountains in search of this precious stone for forty long ho years. Now I have found it, but I have become very weak and old. I want you to have it because you seem to be pious and have long life ahead of you."

"What would I do with it?" The boy asked suspiciously.

"Oh..., you would be the most successful, happiest and wealthiest person in the world", laughed the man as he stretched out his hands.

"But I have found the Creator of t his stone as well as all the stones of the entire universe," said the boy confidently.

"Allah Ta'ala has all the treasures of success, happiness, peace, respect and sustenance. Allah Ta'ala has got power over every thing." smiled the young boy as he raised his index finger to the sky, as the little boy continued, "If you had given even a little time toyour Creator. Everything would have become yours."

The man broke into tears and the boy's words sank into his heart. He repented and threw the stone and served rest of his life to become the friend of Allah Ta'ala.

Lesson:

Look, children..! Even the young ones can become the means of guidance for the Elders if they are on the right path.

If the stone had impressed the boy, do you think that the old man would have got guidance (Hidayat)?
Source: Darul Islam

Nikah

Nikah is a form of Ibaadat, but people have made it into a Museebat.

Shaykhul Hadeeth Muhammad Zakariyya - Aap Beti

Halal Diet and Pregnancy

We are what we eat. Today we complain our children are disobedient towards us, but why the surprise? If we feed our children haram (even while in the womb) then the thoughts that will be bred in their minds (later in life) will be haram. Understand well, halal foods breed halal thoughts and halal actions whilst haram food breeds haram thoughts and haram actions.

Shaykh Ashraf Ali Thanwi narrates, 'If before birth of the child, parents were to reform themselves and adopt piety, then there is no reason why the child born too should not be pious. The actions of parents during pregnancy have a profound effect on the unborn child. Accordingly, the son of a saint was quite mischievous. Somebody queried the saint; 'It is indeed strange; you are so pious yet your son so naughty?' The saint replied, ' One evening I was invited to meals by a rich person (whose income was doubtful). After eating, my nafs became excited and I made love to my wife who became pregnant. This child is the affect of the doubtful food.'

Therefore, during pregnancy (especially) it is of the utmost importance to eat a varied halal diet brought from halal income. If in doubt regarding ingredients, leave it out.
Source: Ashrafs Blessings of Marriage published by Ashrafs Amanat

There are a few women in my family who are pregnant, please make dua Allah makes the pregnancy and labour easy for them and grants them pious children. Do not forget in your duas those who are unable/ trying to have children as well.
Lastly, please also remember me in your duas.
Wasalam

Good Character

Narrated AbudDarda' (رضى الله تعالى عنه):

The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم ) said: There is nothing heavier than good character put in the scale of a believer on the Day of Resurrection. [Sunan Abu Dawud]

What counts?

And in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count.
It’s the life in your years. (A. Lincoln)

The Worms

A king was once passing along his way when he saw some animal droppings. And he saw some worms in those droppings. The thought came to his mind that there is no purpose behind the creation of these worms. They are useless, with no real job.

Very soon thereafter he lost his eyesight. Being rich, he spent thousands of rands trying different treatments to restore his eyesight. All to no avail. Then it was mentioned to him that a certain pious Hakeem (natural medical practioner) was very good. The king sent for him.

The Hakeem refused to go to the king and asked that the king come to him. On examining the king, the Hakeem prescribed a powder that was to be put in the king’s eyes three times a day. Gradually the king’s eyesight returned until he was fully cured.

He went to the Hakeem with lavish gifts which the Hakeem refused. The king said, ‘At least tell me what you used in that wonderful medicine.’ The Hakeem replied that he used the worms which one finds in animal droppings. He dried them out, crushed them into powder and made the king apply that to his eyes. The king bowed his head in submission to Allah, Who created every atom with a definite purpose.

Never look down on any creation of Allah Ta’ala, for everything is there for a reason. The events that happen to us also have definite purpose. Every human is a valuable treasure who can benefit the world.
Source: http://islamicfocus.blogspot.com

Qari Abdul Basit Abdul Samad

Remember Allah

The great Sufi Master Dhu al-Nun al-Misri has said that the man who remembers Allah in the full sense of the term forgets everything else, and that, in reward of such a total absorption, Allah Himself takes care of all his concerns, and grants him something far more valuable for everything he loses.

Similarly, the blessed Companion Mu'adh (رضى الله تعالى عنه) has remarked that in so far as winning absolution from the divine wrath is concerned, no good deed on the part of man can compare with Dhikr. And in a hadith reported by the blessed Companion Abu Hurayrah (رضى الله تعالى عنه), Allah Himself says that so long as the servant keeps remembering Him and his lips keep moving in Dhikr, Allah is with him.
Source: Merits of Dhikr

Exams

For many of us these months will be stressful as it is the exam periods in schools and universities as well as many Madrassahs. It is during these months that we will be examined and ranked and informed as to what we have done and achieved during the year that has just past.

Read the full post on Exams here.

Good Health

by Ahmed

Good Health is an oft forgotten blessing and Mercy
From our Lord and Creator Allah Almighty

Not being able to hide behind a mask
On the day of judgement we will be taken to task

Did you use for good this health?
Or were you too busy acquiring wealth?

Whilst you were young you were strong and able
Too scared to take on the Muslim label

Instead you chose to chill and relax
In your prayers and obligations you were lax

Now you realise your foolish mistake
From fear your body begins to shake

What will my Lord do with me churns your mind
Your body sweating, excuses you try and find

But this day you know theres no escape or dodging
Your every move and action captured on record

The alarm beeps and you awake in perspiration from your dream
You realise the stupidity to date of your sinful regime

Here and now resolve to change and amend
Become a true Muslim before your life comes to an end.

Mufti Ismail Menk

Mufti Ismail Menk of Zimbabwe commenced hifz at the tender age of nine years and completed at the age of twelve. He studied Arabic, Urdu and the Hanafi Mazhab from a young age with his father Maulana Musa Menk who graduated in Mazahirul Uloom Shahjahanpur under Hazrat Shaikh Maulana Zakaria (Rahmatullahi Alaihi) in the late 1950’s.

Having studied the Hanafi Mazhab he then went on to study at the Islamic University of Madinah where he completed a degree in Shariah on the four Mazhabs. Thereafter he joined the Iftah (Mufti) department of Darul Uloom Kantaria in Gujarat, India where he graduated under Mufti Ismail Barkodrah at the end of 1999.

Ever since he has been actively engaged in teaching, lecturing country wide, running of Islamic educational institutes for the under privileged as well as the orphans, construction of Masajid and Madaris, relief work and coordinated dawaah country wide.

Currently he is the Imaam of the largest Musjid in Harare.

May Allah reward Mufti Ismail Menk for his humble efforts towards the upliftment of the Deen of Almighty Allah, Ameen. Please visit the Mufti Menk website for audio recordings of his inspirational talks.
Source: Mufti Menk website

Failures

“We learn little from our succeses, but a lot from our failures”
Arab proverb

Close Friend

Abu Hurayra reported that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said,
"A man follows the religion of his close friend, so each of you should be very careful about whom he takes as a close friend."
[Abu Dawud and at-Tirmidhi]

Blame

People of the world don't look at themselves, and so they blame one another.
Maulana Rumi

Pregnancy in Islam

After some time has elapsed, the couple desire that Allah Taa'la bless them with a child and thus through marital consummation Allah Taa'la grants their wish. The first stage that follows is that of pregnancy. A person should not be ashamed of being pregnant or treat it as a big burden, as there are many beautiful virtues and rewards for being pregnant.

Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: "The woman that dies in her virginity or during her pregnancy or at the time of birth or thereafter (in nifaas) will attain the rank of a martyr."

It is mentioned in another Hadith that Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: "Does it not please you (O Women!) that when you conceive from your husbands while he is pleased with you then that woman will receive such reward equal to that of a fasting person in the path of Allah and spending the night in ibaadat. When her labour pains commence the inhabitants of the earth and the sky are unaware of the stores of comfort that are prepared for her. When she delivers and breast feeds her child then she will be granted a reward for every gulp of milk, and if she had to remain awake during the night for the sake of her child, she will receive the reward of emancipating seventy slaves in the path of Allah. O Salaamat! Do you know who these women are? They are pious, upright, delicately natured but yet are obedient to their husbands and not ungrateful to them."

Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: "A woman from her pregnancy till the time of weaning her child is like one protecting the boundaries of the Islamic state. If she passes away during this period she attains the reward of martyrdom."

In another Hadith it is mentioned that, "The woman who dies of labour pains is regarded as a martyr (shaheedah)."

A woman should therefore gladly bear these difficulties patiently and calmly as she will be highly rewarded.

Hazrat Mail bin Yasaar (radiyallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: "Marry such women who are loving and produce children (in abundance) because (on the day of Qiyaamah) I will vie with other Ummats and be proud of your numbers."

In another Hadith Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: "Even the miscarried foetus will drag its mother towards Jannat if she exercised patience with the hope of acquiring reward."

Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: "When the woman breast feeds then on every gulp of milk the child receives, the reward is as though she has granted life to a being and when she weans her child, then the angels pat her on her back saying: CONGRATULATIONS! all your past sins have been forgiven, now start all over again."

[By sins is intended the minor sins, this is also a great reward.]

Source: Pregnancy by Moulana Moosa ibn Ahmad Olgar courtesy of Beautiful Islam

Salman al- Farsi

From: “Companions of The Prophet”, Vol.1

This is a story of a seeker of Truth, the story of Salman the Persian, gleaned, to begin with, from his own words:

I grew up in the town of Isfahan in Persia in the village of Jayyan. My father was the Dihqan or chief of the village. He was the richest person there and had the biggest house.

Since I was a child my father loved me, more than he loved any other. As time went by his love for me became so strong and overpowering that he feared to lose me or have anything happen to me. So he kept me at home, a veritable prisoner, in the same way that young girls were kept.

I became devoted to the Magian religion so much so that I attained the position of custodian of the fire which we worshipped. My duty was to see that the flames of the fire remained burning and that it did not go out for a single hour, day or night.

My father had a vast estate which yielded an abundant supply of crops. He himself looked after the estate and the harvest. One day he was very busy with his duties as dihqan in the village and he said to me:

“My son, as you see, I am too busy to go out to the estate now. Go and look after matters there for me today.”

On my way to the estate, I passed a Christian church and the voices at prayer attracted my attention. I did not know anything about Christianity or about the followers of any other religion throughout the time my father kept me in the house away from people. When I heard the voices of the Christians I entered the church to see what they were doing.

I was impressed by their manner of praying and felt drawn to their religion. “By God,” I said, “this is better than ours. I shall not leave them until the sun sets.”

I asked and was told that the Christian religion originated in AshSham (Greater Syria). I did not go to my father’s estate that day and at night, I returned home. My father met me and asked what I had done. I told him about my meeting with the Christians and how I was impressed by their religion. He was dismayed and said:

“My son, there is nothing good in that religion. Your religion and the religion of your forefathers is better.”

“No, their religion is better than ours,” I insisted.

My father became upset and afraid that I would leave our religion. So he kept me locked up in the house and put a chain on my feet. I managed however to send a message to the Christians asking them to inform me of any caravan going to Syria. Before long they got in touch with me and told me that a caravan was headed for Syria. I managed to unfetter myself and in disguise accompanied the caravan to Syria. There, I asked who was the leading person in the Christian religion and was directed to the bishop of the church. I went up to him and said:

“I want to become a Christian and would like to attach myself to your service, learn from you and pray with you.”

The bishop agreed and I entered the church in his service. I soon found out, however, that the man was corrupt. He would order his followers to give money in charity while holding out the promise of blessings to them. When they gave anything to spend in the way oRGod however, he would hoard it for himself and not give anything to the poor or needy. In this way he amassed a vast quantity of gold. When the bishop died and the Christians gathered to bury him, I told them of his corrupt practices and, at their request, showed them where he kept their donations. When they saw the large jars filled with gold and silver they said.

“By God, we shall not bury him.” They nailed him on a cross and threw stones at him.

I continued in the service of the person who replaced him. The new bishop was an ascetic who longed for the Hereafter and engaged in worship day and night. I was greatly devoted to him and spent a long time in his company.

(After his death, Salman attached himself to various Christian religious figures, in Mosul, Nisibis and elsewhere. The last one had told him about the appearance of a Prophet in the land of the Arabs who would have a reputation for strict honesty, one who would accept a gift but would never consume charity (sadaqah) for himself. Salman continues his story.)

A group of Arab leaders from the Kalb tribe passed through Ammuriyah and I asked them to take me with them to the land of the Arabs in return for whatever money I had. They agreed and I paid them. When we reached Wadi al-Qura (a place between Madinah and Syria), they broke their agreement and sold me to a Jew. I worked as a servant for him but eventually he sold me to a nephew of his belonging to the tribe of Banu Qurayzah. This nephew took me with him to Yathrib, the city of palm groves, which is how th e Christian at Ammuriyah had described it.

At that time the Prophet was inviting his people in Makkah to Islam but I did not hear anything about him then because of the harsh duties which slavery imposed upon me.

When the Prophet reached Yathrib after his hijrah from Makkah, I was in fact at the top of a palm tree belonging to my master doing some work. My master was sitting under the tree. A nephew of his came up and said:

“May God declare war on the Aws and the Khazraj (the two main Arab tribes of Yathrib). By God, they are now gathering at Quba to meet a man who has today come from Makkah and who claims he is a Prophet.” I felt hot flushes as soon as I heard these words and I began to shiver so violently that I was afraid that I might fall on my master. I quickly got down from the tree and spoke to my master’s nephew. “What did you say? Repeat the news for me.”

My master was very angry and gave me a terrible blow. “What does this matter to you? Go back to what you were doing,” he shouted.

That evening, I took some dates that I had gathered and went to the place where the Prophet had alighted. I went up to him and said:

“I have heard that you are a righteous man and that you have companions with you who are strangers and are in need. Here is something from me as sadaqah. I see that you are more deserving of it than others.”

The Prophet ordered his companions to eat but he himself did not eat of it.

I gathered some more dates and when the Prophet left Quba for Madinah I went to him and said: “I noticed that you did not eat of the sadaqah I gave. This however is a gift for you.” Of this gift of dates, both he and his companions ate.

The strict honesty of the Prophet was one of the characteristics that led Salman to believe in him and accept Islam. Salman was released from slavery by the Prophet who paid his Jewish slave-owner a stipulated price and who himself planted an agreed number of date palms to secure his manumission. After accepting Islam, Salman would say when asked whose son he was:

“I am Salman, the son of Islam from the children of Adam.”

Salman was to play an important role in the struggles of the growing Muslim state. At the battle of Khandaq, he proved to be an innovator in military strategy. He suggested digging a ditch or khandaq around Madinah to keep the Quraysh army at bay. When Abu Sufyan, the leader of the Makkans, saw the ditch, he said, “This strategem has not been employed by the Arabs before.”

Salman became known as “Salman the Good”. He was a scholar who lived a rough and ascetic life. He had one cloak which he wore and on which he slept. He would not seek the shelter of a roof but stayed under a tree or against a wall. A man once said to him: “Shall I not build you a house in which to live?” “I have no need of a house,” he replied.

The man persisted and said, “I know the type of house that would suit you.” “Describe it to me,” said Salman.

“I shall build you a house which if you stand up in it, its roof will hurt your head and if you stretch your legs the wall will hurt them.”

Later, as a govenor of al-Mada’in (Ctesiphon) near Baghdad, Salman received a stipend of five thousand dirhams. This he would distribute as sadaqah. He lived from the work of his own hands. When some people came to Mada’in and saw him working in the palm groves, they said, “You are the amir here and your sustenance is guaranteed and you do this work!”

“I like to eat from the work of my own hands,” he replied. Salman however was not extreme in his asceticism. It is related that he once visited Abu ad-Dardaa with whom the Prophet had joined him in brotherhood. He found Abu adDardaa’s wife in a miserable state and he asked, “What is the matter with you.”

“Your brother has no need of anything in this world*” she replied.

When Abu ad-Dardaa came, he welcomed Salman and gave him food. Salman told him to eat but Abu adDardaa said, “I am fasting.” “I swear to you that I shall not eat until you eat also.”

Salman spent the night there as well. During the night, Abu ad-Dardaa got up but Salman got hold of him and said:

“O Abu ad-Dardaa, your Lord has a right over you. Your family have a right over you and your body has a right over you. Give to each its due.”

In the morning, they prayed together and then went out to meet the Prophet, peace be upon him. The Prophet supported Salman in what he had said.

As a scholar, Salman was noted for his vast knowledge and wisdom. Ali said of him that he was like Luqman the Wise. And Ka’b al-Ahbar said: “Salman is stuffed with knowledge and wisdomرan ocean that does not dry up.” Salman had a knowledge of both the Christian scriptures and the Qur’an in addition to his earlier knowledge of the Zoroastrian religion. Salman in fact translated parts of the Qur’an into Persian during the life-time of the Prophet. He was thus the first person to translate the Qur’an into a foreign language.

Salman, because of the influential household in which he grew up, might easily have been a major figure in the sprawling Persian Empire of his time. His search for truth however led him, even before the Prophet had appeared, to renounce a comfortable and affluent life and even to suffer the indignities of slavery. According to the most reliable account, he died in the year thirty five after the hijrah, during the caliphate of Uthman, at Ctesiphon.
Source: Al-Ghuraba blog

The Shopkeeper

Once a boy went to a shop with his mother.

The shop keeper looked at the small cute child and showed him a bottle with sweets and said 'Dear Child...you can take some of these sweets...

but the child didnt take them. The shop keeper was surprised, such a small child he is
and why is he not taking the sweets from the bottle. Again he said take the sweets...
this time the mother also heard that and said... beta take the sweets.

Yet he still didnt take any...

The shopkeeper seeing the child not taking the sweets... he himself took the sweets and gave to them to the child... the child was happy to get two hands full of sweets.

When they returned back home, Mother asked the child... Why didnt you take the sweets... when shop keeper told you to take...

Can you guess the response:-

Child replies... Mom! my hands are very small and if i take the sweets I can only take a few.. but now you see when the kind shop keeper gave with his big hands...

how many more sweets i got!

Moral:
When we take we may get little but when God gives...
HE gives us more, beyond our expectations.... more than what we can hold..........
Source unknown

Khadijah

Khadijah رضى الله عنها,
I do yearn to be like you,
In words and actions
And character too.

Pure of heart,
You gave us the perfect start,
Truthful in words,
Honest in dealings.

With piety,
You alleviated anxiety,
Giving peace, solace,
And tranquility.

My mother
You are the perfect role model,
A woman of strength,
Chaste and humble,
My support and comfort.
Source: Mothers of the Believers

Shaykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat

Shaykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat was born on the 7th of November 1962 in Bhoria; a small, rural village in India and from a very young age displayed the signs of piety, trustworthiness, zeal for knowledge and concern for humanity for which he is now well known.

Shaykh arrived in England in 1973 at the age of 11 with his mother and siblings to join his father, Hafiz Ibraheeem Dhorat rahmatullahi alayh. Shaykh’s father was serving as an Imam in Leicester

In 1980, Shaykh Saleem Dorat enrolled to study Islamic Theology at Darul Uloom Al Arabiyah Al Islamiyah which is based in Bury, Lancashire and at that time it was the only institute of its kind in the United Kingdom.

After graduating with honours, Shaykh Saleem Dhorat remained at the Darul Uloom for a further five years as a lecturer: a testimony to his academic brilliance and capability. He taught books such as Usulus Shashi, Hidaayatun Nahw, Mirqaat, Hidaayah and the well known book of Hadeeth, Riyaadus Saliheen.

In 1991 Shaykh Saleem Dhorat founded the Islamic Dawah Academy to help people, especially the young, undertsand the teachings of Islam. Initially starting from his home, the Academy has now grown to provide religious guidance, information and courses, advice services, da’wah amongst non-Muslims, youth activities and publications. It regularly holds talk and tours for visiting luminaries from around the world and is recognised for it’s monthly English journal, Riyadul Jannah.

Shaykh’s regular discourses throughout the UK and around the world attract huge audiences and many of Shaykh’s thought provoking lectures are recorded and available via a range of media. Perhaps the reason for Shaykh’s widespread appeal and acceptance is because he has a keen awareness of what is going on in our world and he understands what we experience in our day to day life.

Shaykh's beneficial lectures, talks and programmes can be heard on the Islamic Dawah Academy website.

May Allah swt give good health and long life to Shaykh Saleem Dhorat in order that the ummah continue to benefit from his presence, lessons and knowledge. Ameen.
Adapted from Islamise website.

Sufi and the Body Builder

Body Builder: Hey Sufi how you doing? Why are you so skinny? Come train with me in the gym I’ll make you buff in 6 months.

Sufi: Peace be upon you my friend. I am well, praise be to Allah, you are looking healthy as well masha Allah. Thank you for your kind offer, before I take you up though I need to know how much effort I will need to put in to achieve this maqam of ‘buff’?

BB: Well if you want to be like me you need to train 3 hours everyday, 6 days a week, eat 2 raw eggs every morning, a whole grilled chicken every night, six bananas, and take £200 worth of supplements every month.

BB: … Oh yeah, forgot to add; you have to keep this up everyday otherwise you’ll lose everything you gain youknowwhatI’msaying bruv? Well you’ll lose it anyway as you get older but for now you can look like a human tank like me, yeah baby!!

S: So you are basically saying I must dedicate myself every day to my body, arduously working for something that will eventually deteriorate?

BB: Erm…. Yeah. But I’m telling you bruv all the girls dig a buff body even the guys stare at me I’m so hot!

S: A ‘buff’oon could not be as misguided as you my foolish companion! You are tricked by the whispers of Shaytan and lowly desires of the nafs. Your ego has inflated more than your muscles! May Allah have mercy on you and guide you!

You work so hard, spend so much time and effort on something you know is finite and will leave you in the grave; you even admit it will deteriorate in your own lifetime!

Follow my advice my dear friend, put your efforts to something that is eternal and will be your companion beyond your grave - your Soul.

Unlike your biceps, triceps and pectorals which no matter how perfectly you form will ultimately sag and rot away. Whereas every aspect of your soul you perfect will manifest into everlasting beauty in this world and the next, a beauty your mind cannot even perceive.

Give your body its rights but dear friend take care of your soul.
Source: http://anotherdayinthedunya.wordpress.com

Asma bint Abu Bakr

by Shaikh Ibrahim Memon Madani
It had been three days since they were hiding in the cave. Rasulullah (saw) and his close companion, Abu Bakr (ra), were forced to pause their migration from Makkah to Madinah and seek temporary refuge in the cave of Thawr. The disbeliever's hatred for them and the Islam they represented had reached its boiling point. The bounty was set for 100 camels for the person who would bring back Rasulullah (saw), dead or alive.

During this very perilous time, it was very difficult for anyone to send food to the Prophet (saw). None of the other Muslims knew of their whereabouts and even if they did, it was such a delicate situation in which the slightest irresponsibility and lack of shrewdness could endanger the life of the Prophet (saw).

This grand task was undertaken by none other than the young Asma radhiallahu anhaa, the daughter of Abu Bakr (ra). It appears that Allah (swt) had destined that from beginning of the Hijrah to the very end, assistance to Prophet (saw) would come from the house of Abu Bakr (ra).
Every night, Asma (radhiallahu anhaa) would quietly venture towards the shadowy mountains in which laid the cave of Thawr to take food for the Prophet of Allah (saw) and her father. Upon returning from her trip, she would send a shepard to graze his sheep over the footprints she had left. On lookers would assume that this shepard is feeding his sheep at night. Every minute detail and care was taken by this courageous twenty-seven year old woman.

Often, we just glance over this part of the history. If we reflect for a moment, we will realize how difficult it must have been for her to traverse the rocky path at night, constantly turning around to see if anyone is following her to get to Rasulullah (saw), then searching out the small dark cave, the danger of being caught and losing her life lurking over her head, and dearer than that the safety of Rasulullah (saw).


ABU JAHAL'S VISIT

Rasulullah's (saw) migration at night was so secretive that the disbelievers had no clue as to when he left. They had plotted to kill him one particular night and stationed many people, all from different tribes, surrounding his house. The moment he was to come out, they would collectively stab him so that no single tribe would be blamed for the murder. People plan, and Allah (swt) too plans and He is the best of Planners. Rasulullah (saw) was obeying the orders of Allah (swt). He left for his journey from amongst them and they did not see him leaving. After sunrise they knew that Rasulullah (saw) had already left his home.

The chief of the disbelievers, Abu Jahl, quickly headed for Abu Bakr's (ra) home. If anyone knew the whereabouts of Rasulullah (saw), it would be Abu Bakr (ra). Little did he know that he too had left. He began violently knocking at the door. Asma radhiallahu anhaa opens the door to a fuming Abu Jahl who demands, "Where is your father?!!" She wittingly remarked, "How would I know?" This response shows the wisdom and courage of Asma radhiallahu anhaa, who didn't make a statement that would give them away nor did she have to lie. She simply posed a question back.

But Abu Jahl was very intelligent. His gut instinct told him that Abu Bakr (ra) too had left for the migration with the Prophet (saw). Enraged at his apparent defeat, he slapped Asma radhiallahu anhaa across the face with so much force that her earring fell down. Nonetheless, she stood firm and didn't apologize to him for anything. After all, what was there to apologize for? The message of Islam was true and the mission of Rasulullah (saw) was not a crime; it was the simple calling of people to worship the One True God.


TRUST IN ALLAH (swt)

Her grandfather, Abu Quhafaa who was a disbeliever at that time, visited her one day to see how she was doing. He was very old and had become blind. He said to her, "Asma, I think Abu Bakr must have taken all of the wealth and left only you guys behind, empty handed." He continued talking bad about his son and his irresponsibility towards his family over "that Prophet." Asma radhiallahu anhaa couldn't tolerate such belligerence towards the Prophet of Allah (saw). Her taqwa and Imaan refused her to sit and listen to that nonsense. She quickly ran to the corner of home, gathered some pebbles and put them inside a cloth. "Come grandfather, look all this he left behind for us." He touched the cloth and thought it was full with gold and jewelry. His concern was alleviated. Again, Asma radhiallahu anhaa used her intelligence to peacefully silence and comfort her grandfather.

On one hand, we see her contentment with her father having taken all the wealth and no complaints to the grandfather. And on the other, we see trust in Allah (swt) and the dedication of Abu Bakr (ra) who took all of his wealth in case Rasulullah (saw) need anything during the journey or in Madinah. And so it happened that the masjid of the Prophet (saw) was bought with the money Abu Bakr (ra) gave to Rasulullah (saw).


HONORED DAUGHTER, WIFE, & MOTHER

Asma radhiallahu anhaa was amongst the early few who accepted Islam and accordingly, was amongst the Al-Sabiqoon. She was the daughter of Abu Bakr Al-Siddique (ra), the wife of Zubair bin Awwam (one of the ten Sahabi guaranteed Paradise by Rasulullah (saw)), and the mother of Abdullah bin Zubair (ra). He was such a devout person that Sahabah (ra) themselves used to call him, "the pillar of the masjid." This was because he used to stand for such duration in Salah that pigeons would come sit on him thinking he was a pillar of the masjid.

Asma radhiallahu anhaa also had the great honor of being the first woman amongst the Muhajireen to give birth in Madinah. This was highly significant because some people had spread rumors that they had performed a very powerful black magic which will prevent any of the Muhajireen women from having children. The Sahabah (ra) became increasingly concerned as time passed and no one child was being born. Abdullah's (ra) birth brought everyone great joy and relief.

Asma radhiallahu anhaa always encouraged her son from childhood to sit in the company of the Prophet (saw). This is a theme we see in the lives of all the virtuous noteworthy people of the past; they spent ages in the company of the pious and the learned.

As this young boy is attending the lectures of Rasulullah (saw) and traveling with him, the love between the two was continually increasing. Sometimes, Rasulullah (saw) would request Abdullah (ra) to perform errands.

One day, Rasulullah (saw) had some blood drawn. He gave it to Abdullah (ra) to dispose of and provided discrete instructions: "Dispose of it in some safe place where no one would step on it". Abdullah (ra) was only a young child. He thought about where he could put it where no one would step on it, but anywhere he went, he realized if he could go there, so could someone else. So this young boy thought the best thing is for me to just drink this blood. This way it will be disposed and the command fulfilled.

"Where did you dispose of the blood I gave you?" asked Rasulullah (saw). "I drank it, O Prophet of Allah (saw)". He admonished him saying, "You are not supposed to drink blood, it is forbidden". After Abdullah (ra) left, Rasulullah (saw) told the Sahabah (ra), "Whosever's blood is mixed with mine, the hellfire will not touch him." What a great certificate Asma radhiallahu anhaa had: Her father, husband, and son have all been guaranteed safety from the Hellfire.


MOTHER'S HEART

In the year 63 Hijrah, Abdullah bin Zubair (ra) was chosen to be Khalifah of the Muslims in Hijaaz. This was after the reign of Yazid. After he was appointed Khalifa, Abdul Malik bin Marwaan opposed him. Abdul Malik appointed Hajjaj bin Yusuf with tremendous army to attack him in Makkah. The army was so large that most of the supporters of Abdullah (ra) deserted him and decided not to fight.

Abdullah (ra) went to his mother for advice. "Mother, all the people have left me. What do you think I should do?" She responded, "Son, what do you mean by asking this?" He said, "Mom, I only have a few people willing to fight with me. If I don't surrender, surely these people will be killed as would I." She boldly responded, "Son, if you are fighting for the Deen of Allah (swt), then why give up? And if it was for your own ego or to obtain position, then no one is worse than you on the face of this earth." He continued, "Mom, it is only for the sake of Allah (swt). But I fear that after they kill me, they will mutilate my body and it will be very difficult for you to bear this." She finally responded, "Son, what are you talking about? The goat never worries of what will happen to it after it is killed. The skinning afterwards never hurts the goat nor does he worry about it."

Abdullah (ra) was martyred at the age of 72, leaving behind his old widowed mother. Asma radhiallahu anhaa set a superb example for all of our women and certainly, what else is to be expected from the daughter of Al-Siddique? May Allah (swt) grant them the highest place in Jannah for their sacrifices for the Ummah and may He give us tawfeeq to preserve their efforts and sacrifices. Ameen!!!

Valentines

by Ahmed

Valentines day is here
its the same each year

we are hit in the pocket
people dash last minute to the supermarket

to buy their loved one a gift
so they can have a temporary lift

and then the day is gone
as quickly as the dawn

and its back to reality for all
til next years valentines call

good mood and emotions consigned to the past
all year they could never last

stop copying bill, freda and ted
why dont we instead do what Islam said

Your situation do assess
Read about how marriage in Islam is blessed

and follow the prophetic example
Sunnahs to follow, so ample

Realise that valentines is just a trick
simply another scheme to get rich quick!

Also read Valentines in Islam Poem.
Wasalam

Are you awake?

Whosoever is awake (to the material world) is the more asleep (to the spiritual world); his wakefulness is worse than his sleep.
[Mathnavi]

Dars-e-Hadith

Salams

Previously I have informed and invited you to listen to the dars of hadith delivered by Shaykh Abu Yusuf Riyadh ul Haq. For those unable to attend or hear the dars to date, here is a little taster for you courtesy of Al Kawthar Youtube group, which I came to know of via Muhabbat ul Deen website.

Please do try and avail yourself of the Duroos by attending on Fri evening or listening online via the Al Kawthar Academy website.

Wasalam

A Foolish Man

A foolish man may be known by six things: Anger without cause, speech without profit, change without progress, inquiry without object, putting trust in a stranger, and mistaking foes for friends.
Arabic Proverb

The Believers

by Muhammad Ali, USA

In this life we have a great job to do;
It is a trial for us and we're just passing through.

The Holy Qur'an will always be our Guide:
It is ALLAH's Final Revelation that we must abide.

We constantly combat wrong and strive for Right...
We're champions of the oppressed, in a worldwide fight!

Working together to establish our place;
Falsehood, ignorance, and poverty we will erase!

Let us build model communities throughout the land...
Our descendants will know we followed ALLAH's Command.

We will produce from ALLAH's Earth our material share:
Don't give us things such as food stamps and welfare!

Our Islamic communities will produce everything we need...
May ALLAH bless us with faith, patience, and perseverance to succeed!
Source: Islamic Poetry

Istikharah

اللَّهمَّ إنِّي أستَخيرك بعلمكَ، و أستقدرك بقُدرتك، و أسْألك مِن فضلك العظيم،
فإنّك تَقْدر و لا أقْدِر، و تعلم و لا أعلم، و أنت علاَّمُ الغُيوب.
اللَّهمَّ إنْ كنتَ تعلم أنَّ هذا الأمْرِ خيرٌ لي في ديْني و معَاشي و عاقِبة أمري
– او قال عاجِل أمري و آجِله –
فاقْدِرْهُ لي و يسِّرْه لي ثمَّ بارِك لي فِيه،
و إن كنتَ تعلم أنَّ هذا الأمرِ شرٌّ لي في دِيني و معآشِي و عاقبةِ أمْرِي
– او قال في عاجِل أمرِي و آجِله –
فاصْرِفْه عَنِّي، و اصْرفْنِي عَنه، و اقْدِر لِيَ الخيْرَ حَيْثُ كان ثُمَّ ارْضِنِي بِه.

Oh Allah! I seek Your guidance by virtue of Your knowledge, and I seek ability by virtue of Your power, and I ask You of Your great bounty. You have power; I have none. And You know; I know not. You are the Knower of hidden things.
Oh Allah! If in Your knowledge this matter is good for my religion, my livelihood and my affairs, immediate and in the future, then ordain it for me, make it easy for me, and bless it for me. And if in Your knowledge this matter is bad for my religion, my livelihood and my affairs, immediate and in the future, then turn it away from me, and turn me away from it. And ordain for me the good wherever it may be, and make me content with it.
Source: Salat ul Istikharah

Muslim Method of Slaughtering Animals

"Muslim Method of Slaughtering animals is better"
.... Scientific reasons as to WHY this is......

Many allegations have been made that the muslim manner of slaughtering is not humane to animals. However, professor Schultz and his colleague Dr. Hazim of the Hanover University, Germany, proved through an experiment using an electroencephalograph (EEG) and electrocardiogram (ECG) the "Muslim manner of slaughter is THE most humane method of slaughter" and captive bolt stunning (a western practice) causes severe pain to the animal. The results surprised many.

Experimental Details:
1. Several electrodes were surgically implanted at various points of the skull of all animals, touching the surface of the brain.
2. The animals were allowed to recover for several weeks
3. Some animals were slaughtered by making a swift, deep incision with a sharp knife on the neck cuutting the jugular veins, cartoid arteries of both sides, the trachea and oesophagus. (The muslim halal method)
4. Some animals were stunned using a captive bolt pistol humane. ( the western method)
5. During the experiment, EEG and ECH were recorded on all animals to record the condition of the brain and the heart during the course of slaughter and stunning.

Results and Discussions:

The Muslim Method
1 The first three seconds from the time of islamic slaughter as recorded on the EEG did not show any chage from the graph before slaughter, thus indicating the animal did not feel any pain during or immediately after the incision.
2. For the following 3 seconds, the EEG recorded a condition of deep sleep - unconsciousness. This is due to a large quantity of blood gushing out from the body.
3. After the above mentioned 6 seconds, the EEG recorded zero level, showing no feeling of pain at all.
4. As the brain message (EEG) dropped to szero level, the heart was still pounding and the body convulsing vigorously ( a reflex action of the spinal cord) driving maximum blood from the body. This resulted in hygenic meat for the consumer.

The western method by C.B.P. Stunning
1. The animals were apparently unconscious soon after stunning.
2. EEG showed severe pain immediately after stunning.
3. The hearts of the animal stunned by C.B.P. stopped beating earlier as compared to those of the animals slaughtered according to the halal method. This meant more blood stayed within the meat. This in turn is unhygenic for the consumer

In conclusion, the experiment carried out PROVES that the muslim method of slaughter revealed centuries ago by Allah (SWT) to his messengers, is far more humane then any western method. The muslim method results in next to no pain for the animal and gives the most hygenic meat available for consumers.

Al-Shaddad bin Aws has quoted this tradition of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW): "Allah calls for mercy in everything, so be merciful when you kill and when you slaughter, sharpen your blade and let the slaughtered animal die comfortably". (Bukhari)

Reference: Voices Magazine April/May 2003

Come back to the Deen

This is a true story, of how a sister came back to her Deen Alhumdulillah!

She was a sweet and innocent girl, her name was Aisha
She loved her parents, Abdul and Alisha.
For them, she was the best thing to have happened
She was always cheerful and never easily saddened
She studied hard to achieve her goals,
Top of the class, she was told.

She enjoyed spending time with her mates,
Until one day they had a debate,
Not knowing that this was about to change was her fate.

She started making new friends
Began following the latest trends,
Mixing with boys is how it begun
She thought this was fun
Her new friends would constantly, be flirting with boys,
In return they were treated as toys.

Aisha started to let shaitan get in her way,
She took of her headscarf and went astray.
She did this on the sly,
What would she have said to her Lord if, suddenly she was to die?

Months later, after the continuous misbehaving,
And ‘time-to-time’ raving.
She fell for Zain, the boy of her dreams
Well so it seemed.
They got closer and closer
And fell in love with each other.

She wasn’t allowed to out that often,
Considered herself to be a boffin
So she started bunking school,
To be with, Zain, what a fool?!
She lied to her mum and dad,
Not knowing how it would make them sad.

Then she started drifting apart from everyone
Zain was her life, her number one.
Her studies went down the drain,
She wasn’t ashamed.

A year went by; her parents found out and began to cry.
What had happened to their sweet little Aisha?

Hours turned into days, days into months and months into years,
The regular rowing turned into tears,
Her parents were angry,
Wanted to send her off to their country

She couldn’t stay away from her lover
So she decided to do a runner,
Consequently her parents found out her plans to runaway with Zain
Never has Aisha seen her mum and dad suffer so much pain
She saw tears in their eyes
She thought no more lies?

Zain kept calling her as he was missing her
It was a choice between him or her mother and father
What was she to do?

She realised being with Zain
Was driving her insane
And the people she loved, so much pain.

She went up to her room,
And asked herself was she doomed?
On her bed was an Islamic book,
She picked it up and had a look

To her surprise it read,

"And whoever does evil or wrongs himself but afterwards seeks Allah's forgiveness, he will find Allah Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful."
[surah an-Nisa; 4:110]

From this day on she turned to Allah Subhana Wata’Ala
To leave behind her days of Jahiliyyah
Started to pray, five times a day,
To keep shaitan away,
From leading her astray
Love for Allah grew stronger, Alhumdulillah

Aisha realised it was time to finish with her boyfriend,
And began making amends with her real friends

She started researching on the Hijab,
Wearing the Hijab is no futile action,
It must be obeyed by women of the Muslim nation,
A woman may go through much trial and tribulation
Because she has obeyed Allah Subhana Wata’Ala
But the fulfilment of this action will never go unnoticed, Subhan’Allah

"Never will I allow to be lost the actions of any of you; whether male or female" (Surah Al-Imran 3:195)).

She thought to herself
Nothing good comes simple
With regards of struggle in wearing the Hijab
Allah has ordered us to cover our self
Not to expose our beauty
We should only be recognised by our personality
Therefore she put the Hijab back on.

This time her Iman was stronger
Since she got back her faith and trust in Allah, Subhana Wata’Ala

Abdul and Alisha, her mother and father
Were slowly starting to forgive her,
This was a sign from Allah Subhana Wata’Ala
As she was constantly repenting and following the Sunnah

Love for their daughter,
Was greater than ever.... Alhumdulillah!

Nothing good will come easy in this life, Our Lord has promised not to overburden a soul with more than it can bear. The problem that the we as an Ummah are facing is that we have forgotten that WE ARE TRAVELLERS ON THIS EARTH, AND EVERY TRAVELLER MUST RETURN HOME!!!

ALL PRAISE BE TO ALLAH, Ar-Rahmaan, Ar-Raheem.
Source: Hikmah