Assalamu alaikum!
Thank you all for the Eid wishes, and those who have recently been checking my blog only to see no new updates! I really sorry...been busy with life and school that's why haven't been able to update anything new or follow any of my usual blogs. Will soon start creating new blog posts--new ideas & fun stuff! Please stay tuned. =)
Ma Salama
Monday, October 5, 2009
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Ramadan Post: #13--Akhiri Ashara (Last 10 Days of Ramadan)
Assalam u alaikum.
Since the last 10 days of Ramadan have started, I decided to post an article I found on IslamiCity.com that is about making the most of the last 10 days. InshahAllah it will be beneficial since I think the tips it gives are very doable, and will help us make the most of Ramadan in the last few days.
9/10/2009 - Religious - Article Ref: ic0610-3135
Number of comments: 40
By: Abdul Malik Mujahid
IslamiCity* -
Laylatul Qadr (the Night of Power) is described in the Quran as, "better than a thousand months" (97:3). Any action done on this night such as reciting the Quran, remembering Allah, etc. is better than acting for one thousand months which do not contain the night of Qadr.
Allah's Messenger used to exert himself in devotion during the last ten nights to a greater extent than at any other time." (Muslim). Allah's peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet.
Aisha, may Allah be pleased with her, related that the Prophet said: Look for Laylatul Qadr on an odd-numbered night during the last ten nights of Ramadan (Bukhari).
The Prophet said: "Whoever prays during the night of Qadr with faith and hoping for its reward will have all of his previous sins forgiven." (Bukhari and Muslim recorded from Abu Huraira).
Here are some tips of things we can do on the Night of Power and the time before and after it.
1. Take a vacation for Allah.
We take a break from our jobs for almost everything in life. Why not this time to focus on worshiping and thanking our Creator.
If this is not possible at least take a few days off if you can. This can make it easier to stay awake at night to do extra Ibadah, not having to worry about getting to work the next day. It will also facilitate doing Itikaf.
2. Do I'tikaf.
It was a practice of the Prophet to spend the last ten days and nights of Ramadan in the masjid for I'tikaf.
Those in I'tikaf stay in the masjid all this time, performing various forms of zikr (the remembrance of Allah), like doing extra Salat, recitation and study of the Quran. They do not go outside the masjid except in case of emergencies, therefore, they sleep in the masjid. Their families or the masjid administration takes care of their food needs. I'tikaf of a shorter period of time, like one night, a day or a couple of days is encouraged as well.
3. Make this special Dua.
Aisha, may Allah be pleased with her, said: I asked the Messenger of Allah: 'O Messenger of Allah, if I know what night is the night of Qadr, what should I say during it?' He said: 'Say: O Allah, You are pardoning and You love to pardon, so pardon me.' "(Ahmad, Ibn Majah, and Tirmidhi).
The transliteration of this Dua is "Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'annee"
4. Recite the Quran.
Perhaps you can choose Surahs or passages from the Quran, which you have heard in Tarawih this past Ramadan to recite.
If you attend a class where the recitation of the Quran is taught, this is a great time to put your knowledge into practice.
5. Reflect on the meaning of the Quran.
Choose the latest Surah or Surahs you've heard in Tarawih and read their translation and Tafseer. Then think deeply about their meaning and how it affects you on a personal level.
6. Get your sins wiped out.
Abu Huraira narrated that the Messenger said: Whoever stands (in prayer) in Laylatul Qadr while nourishing his faith with self-evaluation, expecting reward from Allah, will have all of his previous sins forgiven. [Bukhari and Muslim).
Don't just pray using the shorter Surahs that you know. Try to make your prayers longer, deeper and meaningful. If you are familiar with longer Surahs, read the translation and explanation and then pray reciting these Surahs, carefully reflecting on the meaning while you pray.
Even if you are only familiar with the shorter Surahs, read the translation and explanation beforehand, and then pray reflecting on the message of the Surahs.
This is a good way to develop the habit of concentration, even in regular prayers, where many of us tend to be fidgety and/or easily distracted.
7. Make a personal Dua list.
Ask yourself what you really want from Allah. Make a list of each and everything, no matter how small or how big it is, whether it deals with this world or not. Allah loves to hear from us. Once this list is ready, you can do three things:
Ask yourself those questions that need to be asked. Do an evaluation of where you are and where you are going. Let this evaluation lead you to feel happiness for the good you have done and remorse for the bad you have done. This latter feeling should make it easier to seek Allah's sincere forgiveness when making the Dua mentioned in tip number one above.
9. Make long, sincere and deep Duas
One of the best times to do this is during the last part of the night.
Abu Huraira, may Allah be pleased with him, related that the Prophet said: When the last one-third of the night remains, our Lord, the Glorious One descends towards the heaven of the earth and proclaims: Who is that who supplicates for Me, and I grant his supplication? Who is that who begs Me for anything and I grant it to him? And who is that who seeks My forgiveness, and I forgive him? (Bukhari, Muslim).
That means for instance, waking up one hour before Suhoor time to ask Allah for anything and everything you want that is Halal. This can be done using the Duas of the Sunnah, but also Dua in your own language, with sincerity and conviction.
10. Memorize a different Dua every night
They don't have to be long. They can be just one line. And be sure to know what they mean generally at least, even if you don't know the exact translation in English.
You can put them on index cards (or and keep them with you during the day, glancing at them during work, while driving, waiting in line, etc.) Then practice them at night in prayer.
11. Have Iftar with the family
If you've spent Iftar time on weekdays in your cubicle at work alone with a couple of dates, now is the last few days you'll have this Ramadan to spend with your family. Use it wisely.
12. Take the family to Tarawih
Have your spouse and kids missed Tarawih most of Ramadan because you weren't there to drive them to the Masjid, which is too far away to walk to? If so, do all of yourselves a favour and bring everyone for Tarawih in these last ten nights.
13. Attend the Dua after the completion of Quran recitation
Almost all Masjids where the Imam aims to finish an entire reading of the Quran in Tarawih prayers in Ramadan will be completing their recitation in these last ten nights. They may try to end on one of the odd nights and read the Dua at the end of a reading of the Quran. Attend this particular night's Tarawih prayer with your family. See if you can attend different Masjids' Tarawih prayers the night they finish reading the Quran.
14. Finish reading a book on the Prophet
Read about the Prophet's life, which can increase your love for him and Islam by seeing how much he struggled for Allah's sake. It may inspire you to push yourself even harder during these last ten nights. This community is built on sacrifice.
15. Plan for the next year
Once you've done a self-evaluation, you can plan on where you want to go, at least in the next 12 months. Laylatul Qadr is a great night to be thinking about this (without taking away from your worship), since you'll Insha Allah, be in a more contemplative state. You may choose to dedicate one night of power for evaluation and one night for planning for the next year.
16. To do list for the Night of Power
Make a to do checklist for each Night of Power. This should define how you would like your night, the one better than a thousand months, to be used. Pick things from this list and define the sequence you would like to do things in. This will help you avoid wasting your time in unproductive chats which common in the festive atmosphere of Masjids at the Night of Power.
Abdul Malik Mujahid, is the President and Director of Sound Vision Foundation Inc. He is an Imam in the Chicago area and the Chairperson of the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago (CIOGC).
Since the last 10 days of Ramadan have started, I decided to post an article I found on IslamiCity.com that is about making the most of the last 10 days. InshahAllah it will be beneficial since I think the tips it gives are very doable, and will help us make the most of Ramadan in the last few days.
***
Maximize the last 10 days of Ramadan 9/10/2009 - Religious - Article Ref: ic0610-3135
Number of comments: 40
By: Abdul Malik Mujahid
IslamiCity* -
 Cairo Sunset |
Allah's Messenger used to exert himself in devotion during the last ten nights to a greater extent than at any other time." (Muslim). Allah's peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet.
Aisha, may Allah be pleased with her, related that the Prophet said: Look for Laylatul Qadr on an odd-numbered night during the last ten nights of Ramadan (Bukhari).
The Prophet said: "Whoever prays during the night of Qadr with faith and hoping for its reward will have all of his previous sins forgiven." (Bukhari and Muslim recorded from Abu Huraira).
Here are some tips of things we can do on the Night of Power and the time before and after it.
1. Take a vacation for Allah.
We take a break from our jobs for almost everything in life. Why not this time to focus on worshiping and thanking our Creator.
If this is not possible at least take a few days off if you can. This can make it easier to stay awake at night to do extra Ibadah, not having to worry about getting to work the next day. It will also facilitate doing Itikaf.
2. Do I'tikaf.
It was a practice of the Prophet to spend the last ten days and nights of Ramadan in the masjid for I'tikaf.
Those in I'tikaf stay in the masjid all this time, performing various forms of zikr (the remembrance of Allah), like doing extra Salat, recitation and study of the Quran. They do not go outside the masjid except in case of emergencies, therefore, they sleep in the masjid. Their families or the masjid administration takes care of their food needs. I'tikaf of a shorter period of time, like one night, a day or a couple of days is encouraged as well.
3. Make this special Dua.
Aisha, may Allah be pleased with her, said: I asked the Messenger of Allah: 'O Messenger of Allah, if I know what night is the night of Qadr, what should I say during it?' He said: 'Say: O Allah, You are pardoning and You love to pardon, so pardon me.' "(Ahmad, Ibn Majah, and Tirmidhi).
The transliteration of this Dua is "Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'annee"
4. Recite the Quran.
Perhaps you can choose Surahs or passages from the Quran, which you have heard in Tarawih this past Ramadan to recite.
If you attend a class where the recitation of the Quran is taught, this is a great time to put your knowledge into practice.
5. Reflect on the meaning of the Quran.
Choose the latest Surah or Surahs you've heard in Tarawih and read their translation and Tafseer. Then think deeply about their meaning and how it affects you on a personal level.
6. Get your sins wiped out.
Abu Huraira narrated that the Messenger said: Whoever stands (in prayer) in Laylatul Qadr while nourishing his faith with self-evaluation, expecting reward from Allah, will have all of his previous sins forgiven. [Bukhari and Muslim).
Don't just pray using the shorter Surahs that you know. Try to make your prayers longer, deeper and meaningful. If you are familiar with longer Surahs, read the translation and explanation and then pray reciting these Surahs, carefully reflecting on the meaning while you pray.
Even if you are only familiar with the shorter Surahs, read the translation and explanation beforehand, and then pray reflecting on the message of the Surahs.
This is a good way to develop the habit of concentration, even in regular prayers, where many of us tend to be fidgety and/or easily distracted.
7. Make a personal Dua list.
Ask yourself what you really want from Allah. Make a list of each and everything, no matter how small or how big it is, whether it deals with this world or not. Allah loves to hear from us. Once this list is ready, you can do three things:
- Ask Allah to give you those things
- Think about what actions you have taken to get those things
- Develop a work plan to get those things in future.
Ask yourself those questions that need to be asked. Do an evaluation of where you are and where you are going. Let this evaluation lead you to feel happiness for the good you have done and remorse for the bad you have done. This latter feeling should make it easier to seek Allah's sincere forgiveness when making the Dua mentioned in tip number one above.
9. Make long, sincere and deep Duas
One of the best times to do this is during the last part of the night.
Abu Huraira, may Allah be pleased with him, related that the Prophet said: When the last one-third of the night remains, our Lord, the Glorious One descends towards the heaven of the earth and proclaims: Who is that who supplicates for Me, and I grant his supplication? Who is that who begs Me for anything and I grant it to him? And who is that who seeks My forgiveness, and I forgive him? (Bukhari, Muslim).
That means for instance, waking up one hour before Suhoor time to ask Allah for anything and everything you want that is Halal. This can be done using the Duas of the Sunnah, but also Dua in your own language, with sincerity and conviction.
10. Memorize a different Dua every night
They don't have to be long. They can be just one line. And be sure to know what they mean generally at least, even if you don't know the exact translation in English.
You can put them on index cards (or and keep them with you during the day, glancing at them during work, while driving, waiting in line, etc.) Then practice them at night in prayer.
11. Have Iftar with the family
If you've spent Iftar time on weekdays in your cubicle at work alone with a couple of dates, now is the last few days you'll have this Ramadan to spend with your family. Use it wisely.
12. Take the family to Tarawih
Have your spouse and kids missed Tarawih most of Ramadan because you weren't there to drive them to the Masjid, which is too far away to walk to? If so, do all of yourselves a favour and bring everyone for Tarawih in these last ten nights.
13. Attend the Dua after the completion of Quran recitation
Almost all Masjids where the Imam aims to finish an entire reading of the Quran in Tarawih prayers in Ramadan will be completing their recitation in these last ten nights. They may try to end on one of the odd nights and read the Dua at the end of a reading of the Quran. Attend this particular night's Tarawih prayer with your family. See if you can attend different Masjids' Tarawih prayers the night they finish reading the Quran.
14. Finish reading a book on the Prophet
Read about the Prophet's life, which can increase your love for him and Islam by seeing how much he struggled for Allah's sake. It may inspire you to push yourself even harder during these last ten nights. This community is built on sacrifice.
15. Plan for the next year
Once you've done a self-evaluation, you can plan on where you want to go, at least in the next 12 months. Laylatul Qadr is a great night to be thinking about this (without taking away from your worship), since you'll Insha Allah, be in a more contemplative state. You may choose to dedicate one night of power for evaluation and one night for planning for the next year.
16. To do list for the Night of Power
Make a to do checklist for each Night of Power. This should define how you would like your night, the one better than a thousand months, to be used. Pick things from this list and define the sequence you would like to do things in. This will help you avoid wasting your time in unproductive chats which common in the festive atmosphere of Masjids at the Night of Power.
Abdul Malik Mujahid, is the President and Director of Sound Vision Foundation Inc. He is an Imam in the Chicago area and the Chairperson of the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago (CIOGC).
Friday, September 11, 2009
Ramadan Post: #12--Abayas! Abayas! Abayas!
Assalam u Alaikum & Happy Jummah to Everyone!
Ever since Ramadan started I've been in a bit of dilemma of what to wear every time I go to the masjid for either iftars and taraweeh prayers. While I don't want to look like I'm going to a fancy party, I also don't want to look like I just just rolled out of bed. Previous years, I've mostly worn my traditional Pakistani outfits, which are loose and casual enough for a masjid, however this year I seemed to be running out of clothes faster, and my priority right now isn't trying to find the next cute outfits to wear to the masjid.
That brings me to abayas! =) I've never owned an abaya, even though I've always liked them and thought about buying one for myself. Then this year while going to a taraweeh prayers I noticed my sister started wearing a cute abaya, and of course I wanted one too. Not only because there are so many pretty abaya's out there for reasonable prices (and some very expensive ones), but because most of all it takes the guess work out of what to wear to the masjid especially in Ramadan when you don't have time to be coming up with a new outfit to wear everyday but still want to look put together.
So, while I started looking for a nice, everyday wear abaya, I noticed some were very expensive, and since I'm not employed right now I wanted something reasonably priced. I came across some in Amazon.com--Abayas
section. I had no idea they sold abaya's and actually for a reasonable price. I found five that I liked for under $40 each!
From the five below, which ones do you like and which one do you recommend I get? =)
JazzakAllah!
Ever since Ramadan started I've been in a bit of dilemma of what to wear every time I go to the masjid for either iftars and taraweeh prayers. While I don't want to look like I'm going to a fancy party, I also don't want to look like I just just rolled out of bed. Previous years, I've mostly worn my traditional Pakistani outfits, which are loose and casual enough for a masjid, however this year I seemed to be running out of clothes faster, and my priority right now isn't trying to find the next cute outfits to wear to the masjid.
That brings me to abayas! =) I've never owned an abaya, even though I've always liked them and thought about buying one for myself. Then this year while going to a taraweeh prayers I noticed my sister started wearing a cute abaya, and of course I wanted one too. Not only because there are so many pretty abaya's out there for reasonable prices (and some very expensive ones), but because most of all it takes the guess work out of what to wear to the masjid especially in Ramadan when you don't have time to be coming up with a new outfit to wear everyday but still want to look put together.
So, while I started looking for a nice, everyday wear abaya, I noticed some were very expensive, and since I'm not employed right now I wanted something reasonably priced. I came across some in Amazon.com--Abayas
section. I had no idea they sold abaya's and actually for a reasonable price. I found five that I liked for under $40 each!From the five below, which ones do you like and which one do you recommend I get? =)
JazzakAllah!
Monday, September 7, 2009
Ramadan Post: #11
Salam Readers!
This post is going to be about "intentions" a topic that has been coming up in my interaction with people several times this Ramadan.
As Muslims we always have to remember that our "intentions" matter a whole lot in everything we do. Especially when dealing with people, and with personal activities as well. If we have pure intention when starting anything--whatever it may be--Allah will bless us with something great in return.
Yesterday, while I was at the Masjid waiting for Taraweeh prayer to start a women came in with a beautiful floral, almost jasmine mixed with some other beautiful and delicious things scent that got all the ladies in the room mesmerized--literally. One lady asked the lady with the amazing scent what it was, if it was a non-alcoholic perfume or ether or splash or something else. The nice smelling lady gladly shared the perfume bottle, and very frankly said "sisters, it doesn't matter what scent it is, whether it has alcohol or not, or if it's ether or something else, what matter is the "intention" you put it on with. You need to have good intentions."
After she said that, I reflected--of course, (I know some people will argue that women shouldn't put on any kind of perfume except for the husbands--but this is not about that) that even the smallest thing you do, if you do it with pure intentions and to please Allah--and only Allah-- than Allah will greatly reward you. That's just how the blessing and mercy of Allah (swt) works. He knows what's in your hearts. Allah hu Akbar (Allah is great).
Ma Salama!
This post is going to be about "intentions" a topic that has been coming up in my interaction with people several times this Ramadan.
As Muslims we always have to remember that our "intentions" matter a whole lot in everything we do. Especially when dealing with people, and with personal activities as well. If we have pure intention when starting anything--whatever it may be--Allah will bless us with something great in return.
Yesterday, while I was at the Masjid waiting for Taraweeh prayer to start a women came in with a beautiful floral, almost jasmine mixed with some other beautiful and delicious things scent that got all the ladies in the room mesmerized--literally. One lady asked the lady with the amazing scent what it was, if it was a non-alcoholic perfume or ether or splash or something else. The nice smelling lady gladly shared the perfume bottle, and very frankly said "sisters, it doesn't matter what scent it is, whether it has alcohol or not, or if it's ether or something else, what matter is the "intention" you put it on with. You need to have good intentions."
After she said that, I reflected--of course, (I know some people will argue that women shouldn't put on any kind of perfume except for the husbands--but this is not about that) that even the smallest thing you do, if you do it with pure intentions and to please Allah--and only Allah-- than Allah will greatly reward you. That's just how the blessing and mercy of Allah (swt) works. He knows what's in your hearts. Allah hu Akbar (Allah is great).
Ma Salama!
Ramadan Post: #10
Assalam u alaikum!
Can you believe that we are already going into third week of Ramadan? It seems to be flying by. I don't know about you but for me around this time I start to feel like I haven't done enough during this blessed month. I always try, but there is always more I feel I can do. I've been having this guilty feeling-- more than usual this year-- because I started taking classes to start on my master's (alhamdulillah), however with classes being very demanding and a test lurking around the corner I started stressing myself out--mostly because of the fear of failing my test since my study habits are a bit out of sync. While feeling this overwhelming feeling, I started to reflect, and realized that while passing my test for class is important passing my test for reaching jannah is much more important. I realized that at the end of the day my goal in life--my ultimate goal--is to reach jannat-ul-firdous. I started to realize that if tomorrow was the last day on Earth, what will I have to show to Allah (swt)? I realized that this blessed month of Ramadan only comes around once a year, and I should try my hardest to please Allah (swt) because who knows if we will be lucky enough to experience Ramadan next year? Therefore, I reminded myself that while my studies are important, Ramadan should be my priority during this time. And anyways, it is Allah (swt) who makes us successful in everything we try to accomplish in this life whether it be for dunya (this world) or akhira (hereafter).
Edit to this post: I was reminded by a friend that it's always our intentions in whatever we pursue that matter most. Therefore, even though I have to spend some more time studying this month I shouldn't feel bad because after all we are encouraged "to seek knowledge" and our intentions have to be in the right place.
So, I realized once again, that an extreme of any one thing is never good, and therefore we should all aspire to keep a balanced lifestyle in all that we pursue-- and of course, that can be a challenge in itself.
Also, wanted to remind everyone that the beginning of Ramadan is to ask Allah (swt) for his mercy, the middle is to ask for forgiveness, and the last part is to ask for salvation from the hell-fire.
May this Ramadan be blessed with all the best for you and your family. Ameen. Please remember my in your duas/prayers. Jazzak Allah Khairun.
Can you believe that we are already going into third week of Ramadan? It seems to be flying by. I don't know about you but for me around this time I start to feel like I haven't done enough during this blessed month. I always try, but there is always more I feel I can do. I've been having this guilty feeling-- more than usual this year-- because I started taking classes to start on my master's (alhamdulillah), however with classes being very demanding and a test lurking around the corner I started stressing myself out--mostly because of the fear of failing my test since my study habits are a bit out of sync. While feeling this overwhelming feeling, I started to reflect, and realized that while passing my test for class is important passing my test for reaching jannah is much more important. I realized that at the end of the day my goal in life--my ultimate goal--is to reach jannat-ul-firdous. I started to realize that if tomorrow was the last day on Earth, what will I have to show to Allah (swt)? I realized that this blessed month of Ramadan only comes around once a year, and I should try my hardest to please Allah (swt) because who knows if we will be lucky enough to experience Ramadan next year? Therefore, I reminded myself that while my studies are important, Ramadan should be my priority during this time. And anyways, it is Allah (swt) who makes us successful in everything we try to accomplish in this life whether it be for dunya (this world) or akhira (hereafter).
Edit to this post: I was reminded by a friend that it's always our intentions in whatever we pursue that matter most. Therefore, even though I have to spend some more time studying this month I shouldn't feel bad because after all we are encouraged "to seek knowledge" and our intentions have to be in the right place.
So, I realized once again, that an extreme of any one thing is never good, and therefore we should all aspire to keep a balanced lifestyle in all that we pursue-- and of course, that can be a challenge in itself.
Also, wanted to remind everyone that the beginning of Ramadan is to ask Allah (swt) for his mercy, the middle is to ask for forgiveness, and the last part is to ask for salvation from the hell-fire.
May this Ramadan be blessed with all the best for you and your family. Ameen. Please remember my in your duas/prayers. Jazzak Allah Khairun.
Ramadan Post: #9
Assalam u alaikum!
SubhanAllah it's the blessed month of Ramadan, and every Ramadan I try to educate myself as much as possible about Islam by reading the Qur'an in both English and Arabic translation, I read books about various Islamic topics and I also try to watch/listen to lectures about Ramadan.
One beneficial vlog I have come across this Ramadan is from the Muslimmatters.org site. The site currently has a Ramadan Seminar with Imam AbdulNasir and Nouman Ali Khan. This vlog is a four session seminar which covers topics on making the best of Ramadan, fiqh of fasting, Taraweeh, and reconnecting with the Qur'an.
You can find the seminar through the following link Muslim Matters: Ramadan Seminar.
InshahAllah it's of benefit to you this Ramadan.
Ma salama.
SubhanAllah it's the blessed month of Ramadan, and every Ramadan I try to educate myself as much as possible about Islam by reading the Qur'an in both English and Arabic translation, I read books about various Islamic topics and I also try to watch/listen to lectures about Ramadan.
One beneficial vlog I have come across this Ramadan is from the Muslimmatters.org site. The site currently has a Ramadan Seminar with Imam AbdulNasir and Nouman Ali Khan. This vlog is a four session seminar which covers topics on making the best of Ramadan, fiqh of fasting, Taraweeh, and reconnecting with the Qur'an.
You can find the seminar through the following link Muslim Matters: Ramadan Seminar.
InshahAllah it's of benefit to you this Ramadan.
Ma salama.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Ramadan Post: #8
Assalam u alaikum!
I'm currently reading a book by Syed Hossein Nasr called A Young Muslim's Guide to the Modern World. I'm enjoying it though haven't finished reading it-- but in the meantime I would like to share a quote from it that is inspirational for all Humans (those who take the time to reflect), not just Muslims.
I'm currently reading a book by Syed Hossein Nasr called A Young Muslim's Guide to the Modern World. I'm enjoying it though haven't finished reading it-- but in the meantime I would like to share a quote from it that is inspirational for all Humans (those who take the time to reflect), not just Muslims.
In a profound sense one might say that the whole of nature is muslim, meaning that it has surrendered itself totally to the Will of Allah. All creatures follow the nature which Allah has given to them. A pear tree always bears pears, a fish always remains true to nature of the fish and a bird to that of the bird. It is only man who has been given the freedom of rebellion against his own primordial nature. Therefore, the created world or the world of nature is a constant reminder to man of what it means to be a perfect Muslim in the sense of being surrendered to Allah's Will.Ma Salama!
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Ramadan Diary: Post #7
Today I found about a very beneficial tool to use during Ramadan. It's called the Heart Wheel Journal Find it here! All you have to do is make a login--takes about 1 minute to do-- then you have the ability to track your Ramadan progress.
The Heart Wheel Journal was created by Mohammad AlShareef. The journal is created to track your progress daily on how much you concentrated on certain activies (ex: salat, dhikr, fasting, etc.) and you give yourself a number from 1 to 10. It's all very simple once you create a login from the link I provided above.
To get a better idea and understanding I suggest you listen to the series created by Mohammad AlShareef on Youtube.
The Heart Wheel Journal was created by Mohammad AlShareef. The journal is created to track your progress daily on how much you concentrated on certain activies (ex: salat, dhikr, fasting, etc.) and you give yourself a number from 1 to 10. It's all very simple once you create a login from the link I provided above.
To get a better idea and understanding I suggest you listen to the series created by Mohammad AlShareef on Youtube.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Ramadan Diary: Post #6
Assalam u alaikum (peace be upon you)!
Allah's mercy is a very beautiful thing indeed, if one was to contemplate.
Every surah in the Quran (except one) starts with the beautiful phrase "bismillah ir rehman ir raheem (in the name of God, the Merciful, the Giver of Mercy/Compassionate)," this phrase is second nature to Muslim's and is one of the first phrases we learn as Muslim's.
Allah is Love, He is the Compassionate and His Mercy far exceeds His wrath. He is the One, the Only and the Absolute.
Alhamdulillah (All praise belongs to God)
Allah's mercy is a very beautiful thing indeed, if one was to contemplate.
***
Every surah in the Quran (except one) starts with the beautiful phrase "bismillah ir rehman ir raheem (in the name of God, the Merciful, the Giver of Mercy/Compassionate)," this phrase is second nature to Muslim's and is one of the first phrases we learn as Muslim's.
***
As my day was going along today, I started to think about this particular phrase-- most importantly the part "ir rehman (the Merciful)." I noticed how beautiful it is that right after we recite the words "in the name of God" Allah tells us he is "the Merciful." Just from this one beautiful phrase you see how much Allah loves us, and tells us that he is "the Giver of Mercy." While we are humans, we will make mistakes and sin, but Allah, the All Mighty is so Forgiving and so Merciful that he knows this already and he want us to always turn to him because he is "the Merciful." We are reminded this every time we recite the phrase "bismillah ir rehman ir raheem." So, next time you say this beautiful phrase--really reflect on what Allah is telling you. Allah is Love, He is the Compassionate and His Mercy far exceeds His wrath. He is the One, the Only and the Absolute.
Alhamdulillah (All praise belongs to God)
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Ramadan Diary: Post #5
This RD post will be a little different than what I've been posting lately--it will be more of a personal reflection. As I was doing some personal reading (article's and Islamic books), I came across some information about Prophet Mohammad (saw) mainly through hadith (sunnah of the Prophet (saw)), that gave me insight into living a more successful everyday life.
Lately, I've been a little withdrawn from friends and family, because I decided that I wanted to live a more "religious" lifestyle where I focus most of my time in religious activities (prayer, dhikr, etc.) and educating myself on Islam. And while I was living this lifestyle I started to feel as if something was missing in my everyday life--I felt empty inside as if there was something I was not understanding completely. I spent some time praying about it and asked Allah to guide me, and of course I pondered and reflected on my life as to what I need to do or improve.
Then, yesterday it came to me through reading hadiths and other Islamic articles about the Prophet (saw) about how the Prophet (saw) wasn't only successful in his religious life but also in his secular life. I realized that before Prophet Mohammad (saw) received the Quran as a revelation, he was a successful tradesman in the Arab lands and came to be known as Al-Amin (The honest one)-- he was always known as one who dealt with everyone in a honest, friendly, caring and loving manner in all his work.
(More information about Prophet Mohammad (saw) can be read in the following link: Prophet Mohammad as the most influencial man in history )
So, what did I gain from learning about the most beloved Prophet (saw), and his everyday life, and how it applied to me? Well, I learned that I need to try my hardest to be successful in both my "religious life" and also in my "everyday or secular life". Learning about the Prophet's (saw) life and how he lived showed me that I shouldn't just isolated myself to live a "strictly religious" lifestyle--because the Prophet (saw) didn't spend every moment of his life fasting & praying but also spent time with friends and family. Therefore, everything around me needs to be observed with balance, and with all people around me I need to practice the sunnah of the Prophet (saw) and live as he lived to the best of my ability.
Lastly, I also believe that when we really want an answer for something from Allah and you look hard enough, Allah will show you or give you the answer. Remember: When you take one step towards Allah, Allah takes two steps closer to you.
Fi Amaan Allah (May you be in the protection of Allah)
Lately, I've been a little withdrawn from friends and family, because I decided that I wanted to live a more "religious" lifestyle where I focus most of my time in religious activities (prayer, dhikr, etc.) and educating myself on Islam. And while I was living this lifestyle I started to feel as if something was missing in my everyday life--I felt empty inside as if there was something I was not understanding completely. I spent some time praying about it and asked Allah to guide me, and of course I pondered and reflected on my life as to what I need to do or improve.
Then, yesterday it came to me through reading hadiths and other Islamic articles about the Prophet (saw) about how the Prophet (saw) wasn't only successful in his religious life but also in his secular life. I realized that before Prophet Mohammad (saw) received the Quran as a revelation, he was a successful tradesman in the Arab lands and came to be known as Al-Amin (The honest one)-- he was always known as one who dealt with everyone in a honest, friendly, caring and loving manner in all his work.
(More information about Prophet Mohammad (saw) can be read in the following link: Prophet Mohammad as the most influencial man in history )
So, what did I gain from learning about the most beloved Prophet (saw), and his everyday life, and how it applied to me? Well, I learned that I need to try my hardest to be successful in both my "religious life" and also in my "everyday or secular life". Learning about the Prophet's (saw) life and how he lived showed me that I shouldn't just isolated myself to live a "strictly religious" lifestyle--because the Prophet (saw) didn't spend every moment of his life fasting & praying but also spent time with friends and family. Therefore, everything around me needs to be observed with balance, and with all people around me I need to practice the sunnah of the Prophet (saw) and live as he lived to the best of my ability.
Lastly, I also believe that when we really want an answer for something from Allah and you look hard enough, Allah will show you or give you the answer. Remember: When you take one step towards Allah, Allah takes two steps closer to you.
Fi Amaan Allah (May you be in the protection of Allah)
Ramadan Diary: Post #4
Continuation of verses from surah Baqarah
Pilgrimage:
The pilgrimage is (in) the well-known months, and whoever is minded to perform the pilgrimage therein (let him remember that) there is (to be) no lewdness nor abuse nor angry conversation on the pilgrimage. And whatsoever good ye do Allah knoweth it. So make provision for yourselves (Hereafter); for the best provision is to ward off evil. Therefore keep your duty unto Me, O men of understanding. (Surah 1, Verse 197)
Beautiful supplication:
And of them (also) is he who saith: "Our Lord! Give unto us in the world that which is good and in the Hereafter that which is good, and guard us from the doom of Fire." (Surah 1, Verse 201)
The messenger believeth in that which hath been revealed unto him from his Lord and (so do) believers. Each one believeth in Allah and His angels and His scriptures and His messengers - We make no distinction between any of His messengers - and they say: We hear, and we obey. (Grant us) Thy forgiveness, our Lord. Unto Thee is the journeying. (Surah 1, Verse 285)
Allah tasketh not a soul beyond its scope. For it (is only) that which it hath earned, and against it (only) that which it hath deserved. Our Lord! Condemn us not if we forget, or miss the mark! Our Lord! Lay not on us such a burden as thou didst lay on those before us! Our Lord! Impose not on us that which we have not the strength to bear! Pardon us, absolve us and have mercy on us, Thou, our Protector, and give us victory over the disbelieving folk. (Surah 1, Verse 286)
Submission to Allah:
Our Lord! And make us submissive unto Thee and of our seed a nation submissive unto Thee, and show us our ways of worship, and relent toward us. Lo! Thou, only Thou, art the Relenting, the Merciful. (Surah 1, Verse 128)
Therefore remember Me, I will remember you. Give thanks to Me, and reject not Me. (152) O ye who believe! Seek help in steadfastness and prayer. Lo! Allah is with the steadfast. (Surah 1, Verse 153)
And surely We shall try you with something of fear and hunger, and loss of wealth and lives and crops; but give glad tidings to the steadfast, (155) Who say, when a misfortune striketh them: Lo! we are Allah's and lo! unto Him we are returning. (156) Such are they on whom are blessings from their Lord, and mercy. Such are the rightly guided. (Surah 1, Verse 157)
Except such of them -as repent and amend and make manifest (the truth). These it is toward whom I relent. I am the Relenting, the Merciful. (Surah 1, Verse 160)
O ye who believe! Come, all of you, into submission (unto Him); and follow not the footsteps of the devil. Lo! he is an open enemy for you. (Surah 1, Verse 208)
Beautified is the life of the world for those who disbelieve; they make a jest of the believers. But those who keep their duty to Allah will be above them on the Day of Resurrection. Allah giveth without stint to whom He will. (Surah 1, Verse 212)
Fight in the way of Allah, and know that Allah is Hearer, Knower. (Surah 1, Verse 244)
There is no compulsion in religion. The right direction is henceforth distinct from error. And he who rejecteth false deities and believeth in Allah hath grasped a firm handhold which will never break. Allah is Hearer, Knower. (256) Allah is the Protecting Guardian of those who believe. He bringeth them out of darkness into light. As for those who disbelieve, their patrons are false deities. They bring them out of light into darkness. Such are rightful owners of the Fire. They will abide therein. (Surah 1, Verse 257)
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Ramadan Diary: Post #3
Quran-- Surah Baqara verses on charity.
Charity:
Establish worship, and pay the poor-due; and whatever of good ye send before (you) for your souls, ye will find it with Allah. Lo! Allah is Seer of what ye do. (Surah 1, Verse 110)
Nay, but whosoever surrendereth his purpose to Allah while doing good, his reward is with his Lord; and there shall no fear come upon them neither shall they grieve. (Surah 1, Verse 112)
Who is it that will lend unto Allah a goodly loan, so that He may give it increase manifold? Allah straiteneth and enlargeth. Unto Him ye will return. (Surah 1, Verse 245)
O ye who believe! spend of that wherewith We have provided you ere a day come when there will be no trafficking, nor friendship, nor intercession. The disbelievers, they are the wrong-doers. (Surah 1, Verse 254)
The likeness of those who spend their wealth in Allah's way is as the likeness of a grain which groweth seven ears, in every ear a hundred grains. Allah giveth increase manifold to whom He will. Allah is All-Embracing, All-Knowing. (261) Those who spend their wealth for the cause of Allah and afterward make not reproach and injury to follow that which they have spent; their reward is with their Lord, and there shall no fear come upon them, neither shall they grieve. (262) A kind word with forgiveness is better than almsgiving followed by injury. Allah is Absolute, Clement. (263) O ye who believe! Render not vain your almsgiving by reproach and injury, like him who spendeth his wealth only to be seen of men and believeth not in Allah and the Last Day. His likeness is as the likeness of a rock whereon is dust of earth; a rainstorm smiteth it, leaving it smooth and bare. They have no control of aught of that which they have gained. Allah guideth not the disbelieving folk. (264) And the likeness of those who spend their wealth in search of Allah's pleasure, and for the strengthening of their souls, is as the likeness of a garden on a height. The rainstorm smiteth it and it bringeth forth its fruit twofold. And if the rainstorm smite it not, then the shower. Allah is Seer of what ye do. (265) Would any of you like to have a garden of palm-trees and vines, with rivers flowing underneath it, with all kinds of fruit for him therein; and old age hath stricken him and he hath feeble offspring; and a fiery whirlwind striketh it and it is (all) consumed by fire. Thus Allah maketh plain His revelations unto you, in order that ye may give thought. (266) O ye who believe! Spend of the good things which ye have earned, and of that which We bring forth from the earth for you, and seek not the bad (with intent) to spend thereof (in charity) when ye would not take it for yourselves save with disdain; and know that Allah is Absolute, Owner of Praise. (267) The devil promiseth you destitution and enjoineth on you lewdness. But Allah promiseth you forgiveness from Himself with bounty. Allah is All-Embracing, All-knowing. (268) He giveth wisdom unto whom He will, and he unto whom wisdom is given, he truly hath received abundant good. But none remember except men of understanding. (269) Whatever alms ye spend or vow ye vow, lo! Allah knoweth it. Wrong-doers have no helpers. (270) If ye publish your almsgiving, it is well, but if ye hide it and give it to the poor, it will be better for you, and will atone for some of your ill-deeds. Allah is Informed of what ye do. (271) The guiding of them is not thy duty (O Muhammad), but Allah guideth whom He will. And whatsoever good thing ye spend, it is for yourselves, when ye spend not save in search of Allah's Countenance; and whatsoever good thing ye spend, it will be repaid to you in full, and ye will not be wronged. (272) (Alms are) for the poor who are straitened for the cause of Allah, who cannot travel in the land (for trade). The unthinking man accounteth them wealthy because of their restraint. Thou shalt know them by their mark: They do not beg of men with importunity. And whatsoever good thing ye spend, lo! Allah knoweth it. (273) Those who spend their wealth by night and day, by stealth and openly, verily their reward is with their Lord, and their shall no fear come upon them neither shall they grieve. (Surah 1, Verse 274)
Ramadan Diary: Post #2
As I continue my Ramadan diary I will like to share some verses from surah baqara that stood out to me and I've "tried" categorizing in my reading.
Surah baqara is the longest surah in the Quran-containing 286 verses, therefore the few verses I share I've tried to focus them around Ramadan. This is not comprehensive in anyway, but just my way to share the Quranic reading I'm doing this month.
Surah baqara is the longest surah in the Quran-containing 286 verses, therefore the few verses I share I've tried to focus them around Ramadan. This is not comprehensive in anyway, but just my way to share the Quranic reading I'm doing this month.
Fasting:
O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you, even as it was prescribed for those before you, that ye may ward off (evil); (183) (Fast) a certain number of days; and (for) him who is sick among you, or on a journey, (the same) number of other days; and for those who can afford it there is a ransom: the feeding of a man in need - but whoso doeth good of his own accord, it is better for him: and that ye fast is better for you if ye did but know - (184) The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance, and the Criterion (of right and wrong). And whosoever of you is present, let him fast the month, and whosoever of you is sick or on a journey, (let him fast the same) number of other days. Allah desireth for you ease; He desireth not hardship for you; and (He desireth) that ye should complete the period, and that ye should magnify Allah for having guided you, and that peradventure ye may be thankful. (185) And when My servants question thee concerning Me, then surely I am nigh. I answer the prayer of the suppliant when he crieth unto Me. So let them hear My call and let them trust in Me, in order that they may be led aright. (Surah 1, Verse 186)
Prayer:
We have seen the turning of thy face to heaven (for guidance, O Muhammad). And now verily We shall make thee turn (in prayer) toward a qiblah which is dear to thee. So turn thy face toward the Inviolable Place of Worship, and ye (O Muslims), wheresoever ye may be, turn your faces (when ye pray) toward it. Lo! Those who have received the Scripture know that (this revelation) is the Truth from their Lord. And Allah is not unaware of what they do. (Surah 1, Verse 144)
It is not righteousness that ye turn your faces to the East and the West; but righteous is he who believeth in Allah and the Last Day and the angels and the Scripture and the prophets; and giveth wealth, for love of Him, to kinsfolk and to orphans and the needy and the wayfarer and to those who ask, and to set slaves free; and observeth proper worship and payeth the poor-due. And those who keep their treaty when they make one, and the patient in tribulation and adversity and time of stress. Such are they who are sincere. Such are the God-fearing. (Surah 1, Verse 177)
Be guardians of your prayers, and of the midmost prayer, and stand up with devotion to Allah. (Surah 1, Verse 238)
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Ramadan Diary: Post #1
Assalam u alaikum!
SubhanAllah. Allah has blessed us with Ramadan. May we be forgiven for all our sins, may our patience and strength bring us closer to Allah, and may we all be blessed with all that is best for us this month. Ameen.
I’ve decided to start blogging in this blessed month in order to create a Ramadan diary—a diary that will be the start of my spiritual journey to share with Muslims and non-Muslims.
I believe that you learn best when you share your knowledge with others, therefore my purpose especially during this blessed month, will be to share Quranic readings, Islamic articles, Islamic lectures, and anything else that inspires me.
May Allah accept this little effort of mine. Ameen.
***
As the first day of Ramadan, I’ve started to listen to Quran recitation with English translation from Quran Explorer—a great place to listen to Quran audio online without having to download anything.
The following are verses from surah Baqarah about fasting in the month of Ramadan:
O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you, even as it was prescribed for those before you, that ye may ward off (evil); (183) (Fast) a certain number of days; and (for) him who is sick among you, or on a journey, (the same) number of other days; and for those who can afford it there is a ransom: the feeding of a man in need - but whoso doeth good of his own accord, it is better for him: and that ye fast is better for you if ye did but know - (184) The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance, and the Criterion (of right and wrong). And whosoever of you is present, let him fast the month, and whosoever of you is sick or on a journey, (let him fast the same) number of other days. Allah desireth for you ease; He desireth not hardship for you; and (He desireth) that ye should complete the period, and that ye should magnify Allah for having guided you, and that peradventure ye may be thankful. (185) And when My servants question thee concerning Me, then surely I am nigh. I answer the prayer of the suppliant when he crieth unto Me. So let them hear My call and let them trust in Me, in order that they may be led aright. (Surah 1, Verse 186)
My Point-of-View
This blog is my point-of-view of the “Everyday Muslimah’s” living all around the world, not just the West. This is not a “generalization” of who all Muslimah’s are and what their life is like, however it is a perspective on how “majority” of Muslimah’s live on an everyday basis.
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