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The importance of reading to your child
Allaah Almighty Says (what means): “…Allaah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees…”[Quran 58: 11]
While it is true that the knowledge that is referenced to in the above verse is regarding Islamic knowledge, there is no doubt that throughout Islamic history from the time of the Prophet until present day there has been a common understanding that striving to learn and educate ourselves is a vital part of being a Muslim.
We know from our rich history that Muslims hold the highest ranks in scientific, medical, mathematical and astronomical discoveries – and because of that our scholars have been envied for many years.
It is so important that we pass on our wonderful legacy of learning to our children, and one of the best ways to accomplish that is to read to them. By reading to them, we not only teach them that learning is fun, we show them by our own example.
The Prophet said: “Only two persons deserve to be envied, firstly, a person to whom Allaah has given wealth and bestowed upon him guidance to spend in a righteous cause, and secondly, a person upon whom Allaah has bestowed wisdom by which he judges and which he teaches.” [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]
With reading come the benefit and the gift of knowledge – more precious to our children than anything else we could ever buy them or give them. Reading to comprehend helps them to understand their religion and therefore teach it to others. We know that reading is at the heart of all learning, but especially being able to read and understand the Quran and the Hadeeth.
Not only it is important that we teach our children English, but also Arabic to the best of our ability. In this way, they can experience the Quran as it is in its pure form.
It is not only important to teach our children to read, but for us to read to them and listen to them while they are reading. By listening to them, we can hear and correct their mistakes and encourage them to sound out new words they are unfamiliar with. Some statistics showed that approximately 40 percent of all fourth graders in the United States cannot read and understand a simple paragraph from a children’s book – and that is pitiful.
We need to get together in our communities and start reading groups for our children to encourage them to turn off the video games and televisions in the house and pick up a book. Whether it is a work of fiction screened by mom or a biography about one of our beloved Prophet’s Companions it is vital that we get our children reading.
It is one of the easiest ways in which to involve yourself in their education and show them you care. Make a plan and read a book together, and then spend time to discuss it, explain it and ask questions. Ask them what they anticipate will happen next, or what they think should have happened.
Ten proactive things you can do:
- As you read together, stop and ask your children the picture in the book and what is happening in the story.
- Read from a variety of children’s books.
- When reading a book where the print is large, point word by word as you read. This will help your children learn that reading goes from left to right (or right to left for Arabic books) and understand that the words they say are the words they see.
- Read your children’s favorite books with them over and over again to build understanding and recognition.
- For smaller children, pronounce each word clearly and a little slower than you would normally read it.
- Read stories with your children that feature rhyming words and lines that repeat. Invite your children to join in on these parts by pointing word by word as they read along with you.
- Discuss new words. Ask them to make a new sentence with that new word to make sure they understand the meaning.
- Listen and watch how your children read and understand written materials.
- If your child is old enough, assign a book every two weeks and have them write a book report for you. Get creative with book reports by making them more interactive, such as choosing a book about a country then cooking a traditional dish from that area.
- Find books that can be read as plays and get the whole family involved in reading their parts with different voices.
Our children intimate us in every way
Our children’s likes and dislikes are often a result our own. So it goes to reason, “If books are part of loving parents - child interactions from an early age, children will associate the presence of books with all of the positive feelings of being held and loved. Undoubtedly, these associations are encoded in a profound way in a child’s developing brain. Picture books provide an ideal context for parents – child interactions that are loving and stimulating.”
Furthermore, as researches and studies conducted by pediatricians indicate, “growing up healthy means much more than the absence of disease. It means growing up with love and attention, and acquiring spoken and written language. It is exciting to offer a child a beautiful book and watch it do its works, cast its spell.” Dr. Robert Needlman, Division of Behavioral Pediatrics and Psychology, Rainbow Babies’ and Children’s Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio
So with the overwhelming evidence, in addition to our own religion and history to back us up, we should be motivated to encourage the next generation of scholars, scientists and doctors by heading out to our local libraries and check out a book. We are raising our future, and what we leave our children with today will be something that will benefit the generations to come. Abu Hurayra narrated a meaningful Hadeeth in which the Messenger of Allaah said: “When a man dies, all his acts come to an end but three; recurring charity, or knowledge (by which people) benefit, or a pious son, who prays for him (for the deceased).” [Muslim]
12 Tips for Muslim Youth in Dawah
Why should you, a young Muslim, be helping to bring your friends closer to Allah?
After all, you've got your own struggles to deal with: trying to explain why you pray to hostile teachers, Hijab discrimination, standing up in class when the professor attacks Islam, dealing with parents who think you've gone nuts because you're growing a beard, or all the other difficulties faced by a number of practicing Muslim youth?
Islam was never meant to be an individualistic faith, reserved for the "chosen few". Muslims have a duty to spread the Deen, and practicing Muslim youth, whether beginners, activists or leaders have a crucial role to play.
"Allah has put them in a position that perhaps no one else is in," notes Sheema Khan, former Muslim Youth of North America (MYNA) advisor for eastern Canada. "They have the means to communicate with their peers, they have an understanding of what they're going through plus they have the guidance of Islam."
Who is your childhood friend, who would rather spend Fridays at MacDonald's than the Masjid, or your classmate who is Muslim in name and only knows that "Muslims don't eat pork" going to listen to: the nice Imam of the Masjid who would freak out if he saw the way they were dressed and talked or you who may have grown up with them, joked with them, or see them everyday in school?
The answer is obvious: you.
Don't panic. Here are some tips and advice which can help from other Muslims, many of whom have been there and done that:
Tip # 1 : Make Your Intention Sincere
All work we do should ideally be for the sake of Allah. That includes the task of bringing someone closer to Allah. That of course means this should not be connected to arrogance, thinking you're the teacher and everyone else should be lucky you've embarked on a crusade to save them. Guidance is from Allah. Make Dua and make sincere efforts and remember Allah can also misguide you if He wills (we seek refuge in Allah from that).
Tip # 2 : Practice What You Preach
Not practicing what you preach is wrong and you will lose the confidence of anyone, young or old, once they figure you out. Don't do it.
Tip # 3 : Use The Quran & Seerah (biography of the Prophet peace be upon him) As Dawa Guides
Read and understand those chapters of the Quran which talk about how the Prophets presented the message of Islam to their people. Read the Seerah (for some good Seerah books)to see especially how the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) brought Islam to so many different people, including young people.
As well, talk to Dawa workers, and check out manuals they may have written, like Yahiya Emerick's How to Tell Others About Islam.
Tip # 4 : Talk To People As If You Really Dont Know Them
Don't assume you know someone just by looking at them. You don't know that the Muslim girl in your homeroom who walks through the school's hallways as if they were fashion show catwalks (see Ambe Rehman's perspective on this) is not someone you can talk to about Allah because she looks like a snob. Or that the Muslim guy who you've never seen at Juma at your university is a "bad Muslim". Maybe he was never really taught Islam and has no idea what importance Friday prayers have in Islam, especially for Muslim men.
Tip # 5 : Smile
Did you know the Prophet was big on smiling? But many "practicing" Muslims seem to have "their faces on upside down" as one speaker once said-frowning and serious.
Smiling, being polite and kind are all part of the manners of the Prophet, which we must exercise in our daily lives. If we want to approach others with Islam, we have to make ourselves approachable. Smiling is key to this.
But note that being approachable does not mean being flirtations with the other gender. There are Islamic rules for how men and women should deal with each other which have to be respected. Dawa is no excuse to have long and private conversations and meetings with the other sex, for example. Set up a system where someone expressing an interest in Islam is referred to someone of the same sex.
Tip # 6 : Take The Initiative & Hang Out With Them
Take the first step and invite someone you may have spoken to a couple of times to sit at lunch together, to check out a hockey game or invite them over for Iftar in Ramadan. Also, share difficulties, sorrows and frustrations. Help with homework, be a shoulder to cry on when depression hits, or just plain listen when your friend is upset, discuss common problems and keep their secrets. There are few things as annoying as a snitch and backstabber. But an important note: if the problem is of a serious nature,(i.e. your friend is thinking of committing suicide or is taking drugs), notify and consult an adult immediately.
Tip # 7 : Show Them Islam Is Relevent Today, Right Here, Right Now
Young people may think Islam is too "old fashioned" and not in tune with the modern age. Prove this wrong. Show how Islam is really about relating to Allah, which any human being can do, anywhere, anytime. Allah is always closer to you than your jugular vein and He hears and knows everything. Encourage friends to ask Allah's help during tests, exams, and in dealing with problems at home with parents and siblings. Also point out how Islam relates to teenagers: Islam gives you focus and an understanding of who you are and where you are going, which most of "teen culture" does not.
Tip # 8 : Get Them Involved In Volunteer Work With You
If you are already involved in the community, get your friend to help out. Ask them to make a flyer for one of your youth group's events or brainstorm for ideas about activities to hold this school year. This involvement makes them feel part of the Muslim community and deepens your friendship, since you are now working together on something beneficial for both of you. Make sure you thank them for their contribution.
Tip # 9 : Ask Them 4 Fundamental Questions
As your friendship develops, you will notice the topics you discuss may become more serious. You may be discussing, for instance, future goals and plans. Khan recommends four questions to ask that can steer the topic to Allah and Islam:
Where am I going in life and what would make me really happy deep down inside?
What do I believe?
Who should I be grateful to?
Did I get to where I am today without the help of anyone?
Tip # 10 : Emphasize Praying 5 Times A Day Before Any Other Aspect Of Islam
A person's main connection with Allah, on a daily basis, is through the prayer five times a day. Don't emphasize any other aspect of Islam until your friend starts making a real effort to pray five times a day. Emphasize the direct connection one has with Allah in prayer. If they are facing a problem, tell them to pray, and to ask Allah for help in Salah and outside this time. When possible, make it a point to pray together during your "hang out time". If your friend begins to pray, that is the first step to other aspects of Islam like giving up swearing, treating parents with respect or dressing Islamically.
Tip # 11 : Help Instill Confidence In Adults
Adults, like Bart Simpson's dad Homer, are considered bumbling idiots in the eyes of "teen culture". Your job as a young Muslim is to help turn the tables on this false and unIslamic belief. All you have to do is this: when a Muslim adult does something good (i.e. saving someone's life, donating money to a worthy cause, the Imam gives a good speech, taking good care of his/her family) bring it up in the course of your conversations with your friend and praise the adult in question. Doing this regularly may not only change your friend's perspective, but could lead to them seeing their own parents in a more respectful way.
Tip # 12 : Support Them Even When They Become More Practicing
Remember, just because a person starts practicing Islam more regularly, this does not mean everything will be okay from this point onwards. There will still be hard times, difficulties. There may be times when your friend may have doubts about his or her newfound practice of Islam. Be there to reassure them.
Seeking Knowledge
What is knowledge?
Knowledge is the noblest thing that one can ask for, and the best thing a seeker can strive to attain. Knowledge consists of many branches, but according to the scholars of Islam: “What is meant by knowledge in the absolute sense is Islamic Knowledge.” i.e. what “ Allaah said….” And “ The Messenger ﷺ said…”, which is called ‘Ilm-e-Sharah. It is the knowledge of the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of the Messenger ﷺ and all that assists it’s understanding (e.g.: the sayings of the Sahabah رضي الله عنه. This is the intended meaning of knowledge in the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of His Messenger ﷺ.
Shaykh al-Isalm Ibn Taymiyyahرحمة الله عليه says “…the source of all good and blessings is that one seeks help from Allaah in acquiring knowledge inherited from the Prophet ﷺ, because that is what is truly fit to be named knowledge. Anything else is either not knowledge at all, even though people call it so, or it is knowledge which is not beneficial knowledge, in which case it is necessarily true that there exists in the inheritance of Muhammad ﷺ that which replaces it, being similar to it or better than it. Thus, the person's effort should be to understand the purposes of the Messenger ﷺ in his commands, prohibitions and his various other sayings.” [Abul `Aasim al-Qaasim bin Yoosuf bin Muhammad at-Tajeebee as-Sabtee al-Maghribee]
Muadh Ibn Jabal رضي الله عنه, who was praised by the Prophet of Allaah ﷺ for his excellence in Deen, said: "Verily, when the people of knowledge will be present before their Lord, the Mighty and Sublime, Mu’aadh (radiyallahu anhu) will be one step ahead of them." [Saheeh - Ibn Sa`d, Aboo Nu`aim, at-Tabaraanee]
He (Muadh Ibn Jabal رضي الله عنه) described knowledge saying: "Knowledge is a comforting friend in times of loneliness, it is the best companion during travels, and it is the inner friend who speaks to you in your privacy. Knowledge is the discerning proof of what is right and what is wrong, and it is the positive force that will help you surmount the trials of comfort, as well as those of hardships. Knowledge is your most powerful sword against your enemy, and finally, it is your most dignifying raiment in the company of your close companions." [Reported by Aboo Nu`aim]
Islamic Knowledge is the best of sciences worth acquiring because through it Allah is recognized and acknowledge. In the absolute sense, it is the knowledge regarding Allah, His names and attributes, knowledge of His rights over His creation, and what He the Most High has prescribed for them. It is the detailed knowledge of the path that leads to Allah, knowledge of the purpose of our creation, and the end in which the slave will result. One who possesses this knowledge knows what Allah has made lawful for him and what He has prohibited him from, what pleases Him and what evokes His anger. Amongst those who have taken upon themselves to observe the precepts of the religion will result in Paradise and bliss, and the rest will result in a place of disgrace, humiliation and misery. Moreover, seeking knowledge is an obligation on every Muslim.
Knowledge - Guidance and A Cure to Ignorance and Disunity of the Ummah
Knowledge serves multiple purposes in Islam. For instance, seeking Islamic knowledge is a means of eliminating (getting rid of) one of the major factors that contribute to the disunity of the Ummah – namely, ignorance.
Ignorance directly effects every aspect of our lives. Moreover, we cannot unite in the absence of knowledge, which should be precipitated (hastened) by correct belief and correct understanding. When individuals in a society are armed with the necessary knowledge in regards to the religion, as well as how to deal with each other justly, only then can a society unite. Individuals firmly grounded in correct beliefs, knowledge, and understanding would unite in order to formulate a strong, healthy and united Ummah. Only such an ummah would be deserving of Allah’s protection and victory from Him. Therefore, it becomes essential to oppose it in a fashion that tackles (deals with) not simply the symptoms but the root cause of this disease itself.
Cure for Ignorance
The most fundamental ingredient of such a cure is to question and inquire (i.e. acquire knowledge.) As the Prophet of Allah ﷺ said: "Indeed, the cure for ignorance is to ask. (Inquire)" [Hasan - Reported by Abu Daawood # 337 narrated Abdullah ibn Abbas, Ahmed and Ibn Maajah.]
And Allah, the All Knowledgeable has revealed unto us the method by which we can obtain this cure: He said: "And We sent not (as Our Messenger) before you (O Muhammad ﷺ) any but men, whom We inspired (to preach and invite mankind to believe in the Oneness of Allah) So, ask of the people of knowledge if you do not know." [Soorah An-Nahl (16): 43]
The primary role that knowledge plays is one of guidance. It enables us to possess the correct and necessary understanding of the Qur’aan and the Sunnah. In order to worship Allah, it is imperative to know the instructions laid down by Allah and His Messenger ﷺ in regards to the religion contained within the Qur’aan and the Sunnah as Allah revealed to us in the Qur'aan: "And thus, We have sent to you (O Muhammad ﷺ) Ruhan (an Inspiration and a Mercy) of Our Command. You knew not what is the Book, nor what is Faith? But We have made it (this Qur’aan) a light wherewith We guide whosoever of Our slaves. And verily, you (O Muhammad ﷺ) are indeed guiding (mankind) to the straight path. (Allah’s Religion of Islamic Monotheism)" [Soorah Ash-Shoorah (42): 52]
And He made the Qur’aan and the Sunnah as limits regarding religious matters. He said: "These are the limits (set by) Allah, and whosoever obeys Allah and His Messenger ﷺ will be admitted to gardens under which rivers flow (in Paradise), to abide therein, and that will be the great success. And, whosoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger ﷺ and transgresses His limits He will cast him in the Fire, to abide therein; and he shall have a disgraceful torment." [Soorah An-Nisa (4): 13-14]
Furthermore, Allah reminds us the main purpose of the creation of mankind saying: "And I created not the jinn and men except that they should worship Me." [Soorah Az-Zariyat (51): 56]
The aforementioned verses clarify the fact that Allah wants us to worship Him alone, and that this worship should be completely based upon what He revealed to His slave, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. And Knowledge is the factor that enables us to possess the correct and necessary understanding of the Qur’aan and the Sunnah.
As Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “Knowledge ensures our acts as lawful for us. It provides the basis of worship.” [Abu Dawood and Saheeh at-Tirmidhee # 2590]
Seeking Knowledge is Obligatory
As far as the knowledge of the Sharee’ah is concerned, it is incumbent, since Allah has created jinn and mankind so that they may worship and fear Him. As He declares it in His Book saying: “I have not created jinn and mankind except to worship Me.” [Soorah Ad-Dhariyaat (51): 56]
And worship is not permissible except through Islamic knowledge. He cited the obligation of acquiring knowledge in His Book saying: “So ask the people of Knowledge if you don’t know” [Soorah An-Nahl (16): 43]
He also pointed out this obligation [i.e. seeking knowledge of Allah] prior to declaration of the Shahadah: “And know that there is no deity worthy of worship but Allah then seek forgiveness for your sins...” [Soorah Al-Quraan 47: 19]
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ made this obligation certain in his ﷺ Sunnah, when he said: “The seeking of knowledge is obligatory for every Muslim; and the conveying of knowledge to the non-deserving is like putting necklaces of jewels, pearls and gold around the necks of swine.” [Transmitted by Ibn Majah and Bayhaqi in Shu'ab al-Iman up to the word "Muslim" saying: This is a hadith the text of which is quite well known but the chain of transmission is weak. [At-Tirmidhi # 218]
Consequently, we understand that it is a duty of every Muslim to study and understand the Deen, and reflect upon what Allah has prescribed. To explore the authentic Pure Aqeedah, which the Prophet of Allah ﷺ was sent with, which he ﷺ, his Companions رضي الله عنه and their followers in righteous were upon - which is belief in Allah, His Messenger ﷺ, His Names and His Attributes, believing in them in a manner, which is fitting to Allah without distortion (tahreef), denial (ta’teel), qualification (takyeef), or likening (tamtheel) – without increase or decrease.
Merits and Virtues of Knowledge
Merits and virtues of Knowledge vary depending on the extent of one’s adherence to it (knowledge). Knowledge is a sign of goodness, happiness and success. As the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is reported to have said:"If Allah wants to favor someone, He grants him comprehension (understanding) of this religion." [Sahih Bukhari vol.1 # 71, Tirmidhi and Musnad Ahmad]
The Prophet ﷺ said: "The example of guidance and knowledge with which, Allah has sent me is like abundant rain falling on the earth, some of which was fertile soil, absorbed rain water and brought forth vegetation and grass in abundance. (And) another portion of it was hard and held the rainwater and Allah benefited the people with it and they utilized it for drinking, making their animals drink from it and for irrigation of the land for cultivation. (And) a portion of it was barren which, could neither hold the water nor bring forth vegetation (then that land gave no benefits). The first is the example of the person who comprehends Allah's religion and gets benefit (from the knowledge), which Allah has revealed through me (the Prophet) and learns and then teaches others. The last example is that of a person who does not care for it and does not take Allah's guidance revealed through me (He is like that barren land.)" [Sahih Al-Bukhari v.1 no.79. Narrated by Abu Musa]
The Excellence of Seeking Knowledge
Seeking knowledge – a cure for weak Iman Seeking knowledge of the religion helps to achieve Taqwa (fear) from Allah and increases Iman. Allah said “It is only those who have knowledge amongst His slaves that fear Allah.” [Soorah Al-Fatir (35): 28]
Generally speaking the fear is present in all believers. But the true and complete fear is present only among the people of knowledge, due to their knowledge of Allah, His Names and His attributes; they are the most eager among the men for the truth depending on the extent of their knowledge of Allah. At the head being the Prophets. Hence, when some people who took the knowledge to which, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ was guiding to be insufficient and said: “We are not like you, O Messenger of Allah ﷺ! Allah has forgiven your past and future sins.” The Prophet ﷺ said, “By Allah! Indeed I am the one who fears Allah the most amongst you, and the most pious of you.” [Sahaeeh Al-Bukhari]
Seeking Knowledge - Sign of a Believer
Knowledge is what distinguishes a believer from a hypocrite because he (a hypocrite) is abundantly acquainted of trivial things and various other useless facts, which do not benefit him, but when comes the understanding of Deen, he knows, not a thing. As also mentioned in the Book of Allah: "But the hypocrites do not understand." [Soorah Al-Munaafiqoon (63): 7]
The sign of a believer is that he is acquainted with his Religion and is constantly increasing his knowledge about subjects that benefit him and he is desirous of all that is good, as well as the gatherings wherein it is detached.
Seeking the knowledge of Deen is a path to Paradise, learning it more is a Jihaad. Reviewing and learning more is like Tasbeeh. As the companion of our Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, Muadh ibn Jabal رضي الله عنه said: "Seek knowledge, because seeking it for the sake of Allah is a worship. And knowing it makes you more God-fearing; and searching for it is jihad, teaching it to those who do not know is charity, reviewing and learning it more is like tasbeeh. Through knowledge Allah will be known and worshipped. With the knowledge Allah will elevate people and make them leaders and imams, who will in turn guide other people." [Fatawa Ibn Taymiyya vol.10, p.39]
In the same vein, Imam Shafi’رحمة الله عليه said: "Whoever seeks the fruits of this life should gain Islamic knowledge, and whoever seeks the hereafter should gain (Islamic) knowledge." [An-Nawawi, Majmoo’ vol.1, p.12]
Excellence of one, who seeks knowledge
There are many ahadeeth showing the virtues and merits of those who go in search of knowledge. From them being: "Whoever treads on a path in search of Islamic knowledge, Allah will ease the way to Paradise for him. The angels will lower their wings, pleased with this seeker of knowledge, and everyone in the heavens and on earth will ask forgiveness for the knowledgeable person, even the fish in the deepest of waters will ask for his forgiveness” [Abu Dawud, Ibn Majah, Tirmidhi # 2835-sahih hadith]
Every path that he takes in search of knowledge is a way to Paradise; this is true for every path literal or otherwise. His journey from one country to another; from one circle of knowledge to another, from one mosque to another with the sole intention of seeking knowledge. These are the ways of acquiring knowledge, likewise memorizing and studying books of knowledge, perusal (reading or studying carefully), and writing even his sleep are also from the ways of seeking knowledge and the paths to Paradise.
If the seeker of knowledge dies while, striving to acquire knowledge, then there will be a difference of one degree between him and the Prophets in Paradise.
Prophet ﷺ said: “He whom death overtakes while he is engaged in acquiring knowledge with a view to reviving Islam with the help of it, there will be one degree between him and the Prophets in Paradise.” [Al-Tirmidhi Hadith no. 249. Narrated by Al-Hasan al-Basri]
Virtues of Scholars – People of Knowledge
The people of knowledge are the leaders of this earth, they are the lights and lamps, and they have been preferred above everyone else. They direct the people to the way of happiness, they guide them to the means of salvation, they lead them to that which pleases Allah, the Majestic and Sublime, and His Mercy, and keep them far from that which evokes His Anger and punishment. They are the heirs of Prophets, as Prophet Muhammad ﷺ informed us emphasizing the excellence of the people of knowledge.
He said: “…The superiority of the knowledgeable man over the worshipper in Islam, is like the superiority of the full moon over the rest of the planets. And the scholars are the inheritors of the Prophets, but the Prophets did not leave behind wealth but they left behind knowledge. And whoever takes firm hold of this is a very fortunate man." [Abu Dawood, Ibn Majah, Tirmidhi # 2835 Sahih hadeeth]
The message of this hadeeth is truly profound. As we all know, worship is a praiseworthy act in Islam. However, it dulls in comparison to practicing with knowledge, as is obvious from the above-mentioned hadeeth.
Allah has honored and extolled those who possess knowledge, and raised their status high, He made them bear witness to His Oneness with sincerity and devotion. He reminds us of the exalted status that is bestowed upon them saying: “Allah will exalt in degree those of you who believe and those who have been granted knowledge.” [Soorah Mujadilah (58): 11]
Regarding their virtues Allah says: “Allah (Himself) bears witness that La ilaha illa huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He) and the Angels and those having knowledge (also give this witness).” [Soorah Aal-Imran (3): 18]
The above mentioned verse shows the superiority of knowledge and its people, the following points can be referred from this verse:
1. Allah chose the people of knowledge (Oolul ’ilm) to bear witness to His Oneness (Tawheed: La ilaha illa Allah) over and above the rest of His creation.
2. Allah honored the people of knowledge by mentioning their testimony along with His testimony.
3. He raised the status of the scholars by associating their testimony with the testimony of the angels.
4. This verse beaears witness to the superiority of those who posses knowledge because Allah does not make any of His creation bear witness except the upright amongst them. There is a well-known narration from the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ: “The upright in every generation will carry the knowledge, rejecting the distortion of the extremists, the false claims of the liars, and the false interpretation of the ignorant.” [Declared Hasan by Shaykh Saleem al-Hilaalee]
5. Allah the One free from all defects, Himself bears witness to His Oneness, and He is the greatest witness. Then, He chose from His creation the angels and the scholars – this is sufficient to show their excellence.
6. Allah made the scholar bear witness with the greatest and the most excellent testimony: “La ilaha illa Allaah.” We know this because Allah, the One free from all defects and the Most High does not bear witness except to matters of great importance and only the greatest of Allah’s creation bear witness to this.
7. Allah made the testimony of the people of knowledge a proof against the rejecters. Thus, they are its proof and its signs, indicating His Oneness (Tawheed).
8. Allah, the Most High, used a single verb (shahadah) to refer to His testimony and the testimony of the Angels and the scholars. He did not use additional verb for their testimony: thus he connected their testimony to His. This show the strong link between their testimony and Allah of testimony, as if He bore witness to His Oneness upon their tongue and made them utter this testimony.
9. Allah, the One free from all defects made the scholars fulfill His right (that none has the right to be worshipped but Him) through this testimony and if they fulfill it, then they have fulfilled and established this right of Allah upon them. Then, it is obligatory upon mankind to accept this right of Allah upon them. Then it is obligatory upon mankind to accept this final return, this testimony, which, is the means to reach happiness in this life and in their final return (to Allah). Whosoever takes this guidance from the scholars and accepts this truth because of their testimony, then for the scholars there is a reward equal to them. And none knows the value of these rewards but Allah.
The Most High explained clearly that there is none equal to them: “Say: Are those who know equal with those who know not? It is only men of understanding that will remember (i.e. get lesson from Allah’s Signs and Verses)” [Soorah Az-Zumar (39): 9]
And the Mighty and Majestic distinguished the people of Knowledge from the ignorant. He said: “Shall he then who knows that what has been revealed unto you (O Muhammad ﷺ from your Lord is the truth be like him who is blind? But it is only the men of understanding that pay heed.” [Soorah Ar-Raa’d (13): 19]
Therefore, the people of knowledge and the ignorant are not alike. There is an immense difference between the knowledgeable and the ignorant. It is the difference between one who knows the truth and obtains insight through its light and acts accordingly to its guidance until he meets his Lord achieving success with nobility, and to who is blind to this way and follows his desires taking the path of Shaytan.
How to explain the Christmas lights to your kids?
But this year we too were, just days before, celebrating our Islamic ‘Eed Al-Adh-Ha, not in the same manner of course, but it was our time for celebration nonetheless. These unusual circumstances may present confusion and curiosity amongst children, teenagers and even new Muslims. It is essential that we address their questions and concerns in an honest, straightforward manner. The most effective method of clarifying and conveying accurate and detailed information is to deal with facts in an efficient and appropriate manner. Replacing normal curiosity with knowledge, will, Insha Allaah (Allaah willing), strengthen everyone in his conviction.
Among the numerous situations that may arise during this season are the Christmas lights. Little Omar –with awe and delight, one evening as you’re passing by lit up houses on the way to the Masjid –may exclaim: “Look, the lights are so pretty!” you look at him frowning, “No, no, no! Omar, those are ugly!” you reply scolding him.
Omar may never tell you he thinks the lights are pretty again, because he doesn’t want to disappoint you. However, that doesn’t mean that this is what he thinks. He may still believe that the lights are pretty; and in addition, he may feel that this is untrue!
It may even be hard for you to tell someone the lights are ugly – possibly because you don’t even believe that yourself. Why? Because the lights are delightful to most, young and old alike, that’s why they are used for all sorts of festive occasions. The fact is, although they may be nice to look at, the underlying reason is that they are used at this time of the year, and this is what is ugly… not the lights themselves.
All the children can see are the lights in a rainbow of colors, flashing and twinkling. They don’t see the Kufr (disbelief) that is being celebrated inside the lit-up houses. This is why it is so vital that the situation be fully explained and not simply brushed off. We must tackle these situations with a detailed explanation, and only with that will a new Muslim or a child fully understand why the lights or decorations are so unappealing during this time of the year.
It is important that they understand that the lights themselves are not Haraam (forbidden). They are simply small colored light bulbs on a string that can be used to any purpose whatsoever, just as any other light bulb. In many places all over the world, they are used for various reasons totally unrelated to any religious holiday. It is not the lights that should be the focus; it is what lies beneath that which is important.
You could spend the entire afternoon arguing your point that lights are ugly and the end result may still be that they don’t agree. Even after a debate on the issue, you may feel that you have come out the winner, but think about this: what was really won – your opinion? Unfortunately, that’s not a good enough reason for anyone, even a child, to agree with you and change their mind. Furthermore, by only discussing the irrelevant issue of the lights – what did they learn? Probably not much, except may be how to become a better debater next time.
Christmas, this year in particular, is a good opportunity to sit down and fully explain the major differences between Islam and Christianity to a new Muslim or a child. The explanation should be according to the age level of the child, and according to the knowledge of the teenager or adult. One should emphasize on the Kufr that is behind all of it, and how non-Muslim parents lie to their children about the fictitious Santa character! One should explain that the time of the year Christmas falls in is an ancient pagan holiday and that adorning the evergreen trees with decorations is a practice of pagans, and that it’s even forbidden in the Bible (Jeremiah 10:3-4)!
To further emphasize this fact, have them research this information in any encyclopedia and remind them of the following verse in which Allaah Says (what means): “And from those who say, "We are Christians" We took their covenant; but they forgot a portion of that of which they were reminded.” [Quran 5:14]
Next, take a few moments to allow them to ask questions. After you have fully explained to them the differences, and informed them in regard to the extreme Kufr that the decorations and lights are representing in pagan religions and in Christianity, ask them what they think of the lights and decorations now. Most likely, their response will be dramatically changed!
The distinction between a hasty incomplete answer and one with a full explanation is that you are not leaving room for lingering curiosity and also are not undermining their intelligence or opinion. By respecting their intelligence and opinion you are opening their minds to listen.
With an honest, straightforward explanation, you will, Insha Allaah, be able to take all the sparkle out of the lights, and instead, turn on the light of knowledge in their mind.
By: Michele Al-Nasr
The love for the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him)
The Prophet’s Mosque: Jumu'ah Khutbahs ( Sermon )
By Sheikh Hussein Al- Sheikh
First Sermon
In what is to follow: I advise you and myself to fear Allah, the Mighty and Majestic; for through it, happiness and pleasure are realised, and salvation and joy are achieved.
Servants of Allah! No life is good, no existence is satisfactory and no happiness is eternal save by the achievement of perfect love for Allah, be He Glorified and Exalted. The Almighty says: “But those of faith are overflowing in their love for Allah” [Al Baqarah: 165]. By achieving it, a servant may gain esteem, happiness, prosperity and deliverance in this world and the Hereafter.
From the love for Allah, Glorified and Exalted He be, the love of His Messenger. Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy on him, said: “As for the Messenger, he is to be loved for the sake of Allah, obeyed for the sake of Allah and followed for the sake of Allah; as He said, Glorified and Exalted He be: ” Say: if you do love Allah, follow me: Allah will love you” [Al-Imran: 31]. So the love for Allah, Glorified and Exalted He be, is not separate from the love for our Master and Prophet Mohammed. In the authentic compilation of Bukhari, according to the Prophet that he said: (Whoever possesses the following three qualities, will have found the sweetness of faith) then mentioned out of them: (The one to whom Allah and His Messenger are more beloved to him than anything else).
Therefore, the love for the master of creation, the best of mankind and leader of the Apostles, is one of the great fundamentals of religion and important principles of faith. Whereby, our Lord has said: “The Prophet stands prioritised to the believers over their own selves” [Al Ahzab: 6]. Scholars said: this priority implies that the Apostle is dearer to the servant than his own self, and that the servant does not originally have authority over himself. But rather, the authority is for Allah, for the Apostle, his guidance, legislation and Tradition. In the two authentic compilations, according to the Statement narrated by Anas, may Allah be pleased with him, he said: (none of you does truly believe, until I am dearer to him than his child, his father and all the people).
Love of our master, Mohammed, has as a consequence great good, prevalent favour and long lasting bliss. Whoever loved the Messenger of Allah, while believing in Allah Almighty, fulfilling His Oneness, he would be with the Messenger of Allah in the Gardens of bliss with a mercy from Allah, grace and beneficence. It is held, according to Bukhari that a man said to the Prophet: “O Messenger of Allah! When’s the time for the Hour of Reckoning? He said: ‘and what have you prepared for it?’ He said: I have not prepared for it much prayer, fasting or charity. That is to say: I did not add to the compulsory duties any of the facultative ones, then said: but I love Allah and His Messenger. The Prophet then said: (You are with the one you loved). Anas, may Allah be pleased with him-and he is a dignified Companion- said: As for me, I love the Prophet, Abu Bakr and Omar, and I hope that I will be with them through my love for them, even if I did not do such like their deeds. Al-Hasan Al-Basri, may Allah be pleased with him, says, on the comprehension of this statement: “Whoever liked a certain people, followed their footsteps; and you will not catch up with the righteous until you follow their footsteps, take their guidance, follow the example of their tradition, and the eve and morn come by while you are steadfast on their approach: keen to be from them so that you follow their way, engage in their path, even if you were derelict in deeds.” End of quote.
O assemblies of Muslims! As for love, if it were among the deeds of hearts, its effects must be apparent on the limbs in words and deeds, and there should emergence proofs as evidence of his sincerity in life, both inward and outward. There are indications confirming its correctness and signs, which appear on the one characterized as such. The love of the believer for Allah and His Messenger entices him to acquiring that which Allah, be He Glorified and Exalted, loves and His Messenger, may the best blessings and peace be upon him, loves from the deeds of the hearts and limbs, and entices him to avoid what Allah hates, and His messenger hates from deep-sighted thoughts, words and actions. The one who loves the messenger of Allah, a true sincere love, apparent and hidden, follows the messenger of Allah in his likings and disliking, in secret and in the open, doing everything he can to stand aware of his guidance and follow his Sunnah, investigating in all his orientations, his Tradition, Conduct, legislation and teachings. The pinnacle of transcendence in the love for the messenger of Allah embodies that the Muslim exalts himself from its desires and pleasures, putting the guidance of the Messenger of Allah and his commands ahead of his own whims and inclinations; because it is the kind of love, which requires the duty and presumed acceptance of what he brought from Allah, to follow his legislation and receive it with love, acceptance, veneration and recognition. Al-Hasan Al-Basri, and other from the predecessors of this nation, said:”Some people alleged love for Allah and love of His Messenger, so Allah tested them with this verse: “Say: If you do love Allah, Follow me: Allah will love you and forgive you your sins” [Al-Imran: 31].
O assemblies of Muslims! The love for our master, the Messenger of Allah, requires his good fellowship and the realization of following the example of his Sunnah, morals and manners in his optional and voluntary acts of worship, food and drink, clothing and in all his perfect manners and pure morals.
Brothers in Islam! The love for the Messenger of Allah requires glorifying the Prophet and revering him, to be polite with him according to what is permissible and following what is sanctioned in the book of Allah, be He Glorified and Exalted, and the Sunnah of His Messenger, may the best peace and blessings be upon him. A licit glorification that would require glorification with the heart, considering that he is a Messenger. A messenger, chosen specifically with the highest appraisal and most elevated elation, without exaggeration or staleness, and without falling into exhortation. Glorification with the tongue; and that is by commending him with what he deserves, and with what the best of humanity is characterised with, therefore it is a duty to keep away and be cautious in the site of prophecy from staleness, such as neglecting sending blessings upon him in words and in writing, or taking his teachings and Sunnah lightly, or be indifferent towards them, or neglecting to read about his legacy and going through his teachings.
Mohammed bin Al-Munkadir, who is one of the prominent followers, if he was asked about one of the Statements of the messenger of Allah, he used to cry until those sitting with him ask mercy for him, out of consideration and reverence to the messenger of Allah, and Abdurrahman ibn Mahdi, one of the prominent narrators, whenever he recites a Statement of the Prophet, he would ask those present to keep silence and say: “Do not raise your voices above the voice of the Prophet “. Ibn Al-‘Arabi said:” The sanctity of the Prophet as dead is like his sanctity as alive, and his dictum after his death, in greatness, is like his spoken words in expression. When his words are read, it becomes incumbent on every person present not to raise his voice over them and nor to turn his back to them … until he said: and he has of sanctity like there is to Quran, apart from excepted meanings, which are described in the books of jurisprudence “. The Muslim is bound by duty to choose the best and most refined words, and most tender and gentle meanings when speaking about him, and to avoid everything wherein acrimony or offence to his site.
Servants of Allah! From the love for him, his praise with what he deserves, such like his Lord praised him with, without going to extremes or default. One of the greatest praises for him is to send a multitude of blessing upon him, and to salute him with the best blessings and salutations. To do so increasingly when his noble mention is invoked over the ears and the tongue, and when written by the fingertips
Sending prayers upon him revolves between the duty and the recommended, as is detailed with the people of knowledge and virtue. In Sunan Abu Dawood, and on his authority, that he said: (The best of your days is Friday; when Adam was created, when he passed away, when the sounding of the Trumpet will happen and the swooning will occur, so do send your prayers increasingly upon me on that day) authentic Statement. In Sunan Abu Dawood, also: (Do not make your homes as graves, do not take of my tomb a venue for festivity and send your salutations and blessings upon me, for your blessings reach me wherever you are). The Statement is authentic, due to its methodologies and testimonies.
Brothers in faith! Among the manifestations of love for him, may select peace and blessings be upon him, is to remember him always, hope to see him and to invoke Allah, Glorified and Exalted He be, O servant!, to unite you and His Messenger in His Paradise. Muslim narrated from the Prophet that he said: (Among those of my nation who love me most intensely are certain people who will come after me, and anyone of them would give away his family and wealth in exchange for seeing me). Ibn ‘Asaker mentioned in the translation of Bilal, may Allah be pleased with him, that when he was about to die, his wife yelled: Woe onto me! He called her, saying: (O what a delight! Tomorrow we will meet up with the beloved ones, Mohammed and his party). So, I wonder where the longing of Muslims today for the Messenger of Allah is?! What is their position with regard to his love?! Where is their sincerity in achieving that love, in which Abu Bakr, Omar, all the Companions and followers showed genuineness?!
O assemblies of Muslims! From the manifestations of love for him, peace and blessings be upon him, the love of his relatives, the members of his household and his wives, and the love of all his Companions, their reverence, acknowledgement of their virtues, preservation of their sanctities and recognition of their status. For our Apostle, in the lengthy Statement narrated by Muslim, says: (I remind you of Allah in my household. I remind you of Allah in my household. I remind you of Allah in my household), wherefore in the authentic compilation of Bukhari, that Abu Bakr, may Allah be pleased with him, said: (keep watch over Mohammed [by watching over] his family). But, with regard to his companions, may Allah be pleased with them, please them and reward them on behalf of this nation with good, our Apostle says it right and explicit, in the narration of the two Sheikhs: (Do not revile my companions. If any of you were to spend the weight of Uhud in gold, it still would not reach the measure (mudd) of one of them nor even one-half of it).
O assemblies of Muslims! His mission, peace and blessings be upon him, which he cared for night and day, secretly and openly, is the achievement of servitude to Allah, be He Glorified and Exalted, and not to shift any of the properties of deity or divinity to others than Allah. Therefore, people who love and glorify him the most, are those who glorify this side, gave him what is due to him, and kept away from all pretext that may disrupt monotheism, which he brought, or affect it. From this perspective, it is from the applicable legal principles, and the assertive Quranic and prophetic rules, to prohibit the exaggeration in his veneration, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, by that which is not permitted. This is why it was stated in the Musnad, with an authentic chain of narration, following the condition of Muslim that a man said: O Mohammed! O our master and son of our master! O our best and son of our best! The messenger of Allah said: (Say it in your own words, and do not let Satan impress on you. I am Mohammed, the son of Abdullah, the servant of Allah and His messenger. I would not like you to elate me above my rank in which Allah, the Exalted in Majesty, set me), and in the other authentic Statement, according to him, peace be upon him: (Do not unduly praise me like the Christians exaggerated over Jesus, the son of Mary. Verily, I am only a servant, so say: Allah’s servant and His Messenger.), and according to Ahmed, with a good chain of narration that a man said to the Prophet: “what Allah wills and you will”. The Prophet, he leader of the monotheists and master of the Prophets and Messengers, said to him: (Are you making me equal to Allah?! Say what Allah wills alone). In the Statement of At-Tufeil, which is authentic through its corroborating evidence: (Do not say: What Allah wills and Mohammed wills, but say: What Allah wills, then Mohammed wills). Therefore, when he showed sincere monotheism to Allah and was the greatest of those who accomplished this prerogative, he was the one worthy of the honoured station, may the best blessings and salutations be upon him.
Servants of Allah! Among the most serious matters with the greatest hideousness is for a person to fall into polytheism, which the leader of the Prophets and Messengers came to fight and warn against. It is a great injustice to yourself that Satan whispers to you by claiming love for the Messenger of Allah. This turns against the call of Quran and the Sunnah, and what they encompass, by collision, intransigence and opposition, so your foot slips and you conceive of an invalid belief, such as assuming in the Messenger of Allah that which is of the characteristics of Allah, He be Glorified and Exalted, assuming that he knows the unseen including that which Allah has not briefed him on, or implore him to the exclusion of Allah to relieve a harm, put off a distress or bring benefit. That is polytheism according to the text of the Quran and the teaching of the master of creatures. Allah says in his favour: Say: “I have no power over any good or harm to myself except as Allah wills. If I had knowledge of the unseen, I should have multiplied all good deeds and no evil should have touched me.” [Al A’raf: 188], and He, Glorified and Exalted He be, says in his favour: Say: “It is not in my power to cause you harm, or to bring you to right conduct.” Say: “No one can deliver me from Allah (If I were to disobey Him), nor should I find refuge except in Him. [Al Jinn: 21, 22].
One of the greatest rejections of the Quran and the Sunnah of the master creatures is to believe that his presence, peace and blessings be upon him, was former to this world, and that creation and the universe were created out of his light, and so on and so forth among the beliefs contravening the two Revelations and in the substance of the provisions the two Teachings.
I seek refuge in Allah from Satan the accursed: “Say: I am but a man like you: It is revealed to me by Inspiration” [Fussilat: 6].
May Allah bless you and me in the Quran, and benefit us from what is therein of guidance and clear statements, I say what came to pass and ask forgiveness from Allah for me, you and all the Muslims from every sin, so seek forgiveness from Him, He is Oft-Forgiving, Oft-Merciful.
The second Sermon
Praise is due to Allah! A praise which does not run out, and I bear witness that there is no god but Allah alone with no partner, the unique King, and I bear witness that our Master and Prophet Mohammed is His servant and His Messenger, the best of those who worship. O Allah! Send your peace, blessings and grace upon him, his family and his Companions, an everlasting praise to the Day of Judgement.
In what is to follow: O Muslims! I advise you and myself to fear Allah, Exalted in Highness, for it is a commandment from Allah to the earlier generations and the later ones.
O assemblies of Muslims! The greatest reasons for the failings of Muslims today, and the occurrence of many tribulations and ordeals, is keeping away from achieving true and real love for Allah and for the Messenger of Allah. Furthermore, one of the greatest reasons for falling into temptation and the greatest causes of ordeals is to fall into contravention of the way of Allah and the approach of His Messenger, may the best peace and blessings be upon him, which would be of the ideological contraventions and practical caveats.
Nation of Islam! Among that which warns of a great danger, is what spread clearly and evidently in the Muslim societies, from satellite channels dedicated to displaying indecent and obscene pictures, and words that erode honour and virtue, which is considered of the broad trial and grand corruption. Channels embodying the means of moral decadence, mockery of high values and virtuous principles, which contravenes the love for Allah, be He Glorified and Exalted, and the love for His Messenger. It would then be obligatory upon all the sons of this nation to provide admonishment and advice, and to stand up firmly against those corrupting means and detrimental matters.
Then Allah, Glorified and Exalted He be, commanded us with a grandiose matter, through which our lives realise purification and our selves achieve happiness; which is sending a multitude of blessings and salutations upon the noble Prophet.
O Allah! Send you prayers, salutations and blessings upon your servant and Messenger Mohammed, and be pleased, O Allah, with the righteous Successors and Rightly Guided Imams.