ALMISKEENAH

The scale of the work all around Masjid Nabawi Al-Shareef is overwhelmingly gigantic! 

Meandering from the south towards the Dome of Felicity, the work is now encompassing a much larger area of the courtyard, creeping very close to the Green Dome. All of the photos were taken this afternoon after Salatul Asr. There are still a considerable number of Hujjaj enjoying their last moments in and around the environs of this Enlightened City.

Taken from the ramp leading to Jannatul Baqi. I was tempted to take some photos looking inside, but commandos were lined up against the entire inside wall.

Long before Hajj the shops under the ramp of Jannatul Baqi were closed. Now they have erected a fence along the northern side. Maybe the new extension is to join onto this northern side of Jannatul Baqi. I have not seen any plans or drawings of the new extension. Insha’Allah they may appear in the papers soon. 

The courtyard to eastern entrance of the mens area being ripped up. By the time I was walking home all of these slabs had been cleared away. 

The excavations are deep. One wonders what history is being unearthed. 

A tangle of wires, cables, steel and tentacles of machines. The fences are lined with pilgrims intrigued with the theatrics of this mammoth task. 

Looking north, at the eastern corner of the ladies prayer area. Jabal Uhud just visible through the gap in the buildings. More of the Mubarak Madian earth being chewed up.

After Qaswa knelt at the place where dates were dried, belonging to the orphans Sahl and Suhail RadhiAllahu anhuma, a price agreed upon, Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wassalam and the Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum began clearing palm trees and thorny shrubs, leveling the ground and removing old graves. It was the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam’s desire that the masjid be a simple edifice in the tradition of the "thatching of Musa Alaihis Sallam." When the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam was asked what the thatching of Musa looked like he replied: "It was such that when he stood up his head would touch the roof. However the matter of this life is more transient that would even deserve a building of this magnitude."  

As they laboured, they sang ballads and songs in expression of their joy and happiness at the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam’s presence amongst them.

"O Lord, there is no living excepting one for the Hereafter, so help The Ansar and the Muhajirah.

O Lord, there is no good, excepting that of the Hereafter, so help O Lord, the Ansar and the Muhajirah."

I wonder what the workers are singing now?

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen. 

The blessing of wearing my spongy bread sandals was written for me for quite some time, until I ventured back "home", where Allah Ta’ala Willed that I could purchase new Birkenstocks.

The strategy was to call the various shops beforehand inquiring if they had the style and size I needed, to save roaming around the city, and to kindly "prepare" them for a possible visit of a fully covered Muslimah! My son braved the end of the day traffic in one of the trendiest streets, lined with designer label boutiques and the flashiest of cars patiently awaiting the elite shoppers to return with their "booty". He soon returned to the car with my "booty". It was decided that I try the sandals on before we tackled the traffic home. My foot went from resting on spongy bread to being inside a boat! My attempt at ascertaining the size from the instructions on the website was way out. The saga we were trying to avoid became the imperative. I was dragged between oncoming trams and cars as we wove our way across the street.

It just so happened that as we were entering the shop a lady laden with numerous bags was on her way out. The ensuing shriek alerted curious onlookers to this unusual sight for such a location. Alhumdulillah the shop keeper was amazing. His spontaneous words: "What, haven’t you seen a Muslim before? They are normal people too!"  He was a hilarious character, jokingly trying to sell me the hot pink flamingo design, or the psychedelic iridescent swirly-patterned ones. Remarking how they would offset the all-black ensemble! I was flabbergasted by his natural and sincere humour and the incredible array of styles compared to the decades ago when I first fell in love with Birkenstocks in their country of origin, Germany! This encounter was one of the highlights of my short visit to the realms of consumerism. My feet felt like dancing once inside my sandals.

They are now accompanied with the words of our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam: "Tie your camel and then trust in Allah Ta’ala", as I place them in a bag I made for them, which does not leave me when I go to Haramain.

This shoe tale pales into insignificance when we travel back and reflect upon the time of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam and his noble Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum. Accounts of how two would share one pair of shoes whist marching to the call of Jihad, taking it in turns to wear the right then the left sandal. How they would visit each other across scorching barren sands and razor edged rubble, without shoes, nor socks, nor caps, nor shirts. How on long journeys they would bind rags on their feet for protection.

Shoes were also used along with dry palm stalks for flogging when necessary. Narrated Anas bin Malik RadhiAllahu anhu: "The Prophet beat a drunk with palm-leaf stalks and shoes."

To use the word "shoe" is still a great insult amongst Arab cultures. 

Narrations comment on the dislike for ladies to wear trinkets, or ornaments that make a sound that draws attention to them, or to wear attachments to their footwear that gives the illusion of being taller. And yet observe how the shoe today is now a status symbol, an extension of the overall outfit that must mix and match in colour, design and expense. What used to be bare necessity have become objects of desire. Confusing necessity with desire is the source of corruption in the world. In the Words of Allah Ta’ala:

Corruption has appeared on land and sea as a result of people’s actions and He will make them taste the consequences of some of their own actions so that they may turn back. (30:41)

May we all be guided to only that which derives the pleasure of our Creator, Ta’ala, Ameen

Another aspect related to shoes is reported by Abu Hurairah RadhiAllahu anhu who heard the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam say: "The Hour will not be established till you fight a nation whose shoes are made of hair." During the noble time of our Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam, shoes were made with tanned leather, treated to remove the hair of the animal. Narrated ‘Isa bin Tahman: Anas RadhiAllahu anhu brought out to us two worn out leather shoes without hair and with pieces of leather straps. Later on Thabit Al-Banani told me that Anas RadhiAllahu anhu said that they were the shoes of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam. 

I have heard that there are places in Pakistan where one can have Sunnah-style sandals made to order. SubhanAllah.

We also read that Allah’s Apostle SallAllahu alaihi wassalam said, "If you want to put on your shoes, put on the right shoe first; and if you want to take them off, take the left one first. Let the right shoe be the first to be put on and the last to be taken off." And how he SallAllahu alaihi wassalam mended his own sandals, and how he would take them off before entering a dwelling, and pick them up to carry them with his SallAllahu alaihi wassalam left hand. So many elements of the Sunnah we can adopt, gaining the rewards for such simple acts, Insha’Allah.

Take time to meditate on the blessed sandal of our beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam and be enlightened by the descriptions of his noble character and habits from the Shamaa-il Tirmidhi.

A potent reminder about shoes of another kind was narrated by Ibn Abbas RadhiAllahu anhu who reported that the Messenger of Allah SallAllahu alaihi wassalam said: "Of the inmates of the Fire, the one with the least punishment will be Abu Talib; he will be wearing a pair of shoes which will cause his brain to boil." Auudhu biLlahi min Dhalik.

May we all take heed and deeply contemplate all facets related to this ramble about shoes. Pondering on who will be washing our feet that have spent their days in various designs of shoes, how our feet, one and all, will share a similar white shroud wrapping them, carried and then placed in the grave, we all will be questioned about where, why, how they have taken us, how will we fare crossing the Sirat, standing on the Day of Judgement.

Ya Allah, Ya Lateef, shower Your Mercy upon us all; favour us all with Your Grace. Ameen

It is narrated on the authority of Abdullah b. Mas’ud RadhiAllahu anhu that the Apostle of Allah SallAllahu alaihi wassalam said: He who has in his heart the weight of a mustard seed of pride shall not enter Paradise." A person present at the time said: "Verily a person loves that his dress should be fine, and his shoes should be fine." He SallAllahu alaihi wassalam remarked: "Verily, Allah is Graceful and He loves Grace. Pride disdains the truth out of self-conceit and contempt for the people."   

Ya Allah, Ya Lateef, make us not of the proud and haughty. Ameen.

During his caliphate, ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab RadhiAllahu anhu was marching upon Damascus with his army. Abu ‘Ubaydah ibn Jarrah RadhiAllahu anhu was with him. They came upon a little lake. ‘Umar RadhiAllahu anhu descended from his camel, took off his shoes, tied them together, and hung them on his shoulder. He took the halter of his camel and together they entered the water. Seeing this happening in front of the army, Abu ‘Ubaydah RadhiAllahu anhu said, "O commander of the faithful, how can you be so humble in front of all your men?" ‘Umar RadhiAllahu anhu answered, "Woe, Abu ‘Ubaydah, if anyone else other than you thinks this way! Thoughts like this will cause the downfall of the Muslims. Don’t you see? We were indeed a very lowly people. Allah Ta’ala raised us to honor and greatness through Islam. If we forget who we are and wish other than Islam, which elevated us, the One who raised us surely will debase us."

Said Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasalam: "The most knowledgeable of my Ummah in matters of halal and haram is Muadh ibn Jabal." who was chosen by the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam for his dignified qualities to journey to Yemen to impart Islam to the people. As he was preparing to leave the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam said: "O Muadh, perhaps you shall not meet me again after this year. Perhaps when you return you shall see only my mosque and my grave."  Tears rolled down Muadh RadhiAllahu anhu’s cheeks, but were soon changed to a smile upon hearing Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasalam say: "For every step you make for the sake of Allah Ta’ala it will bring you closer to me in Jannah, the first step you take on the path for Allah Ta’ala all sins will be forgiven and for every other step your status will be raised in Jannah."

O Allah, whatever shoes we choose to step into, make each step leading us closer and closer to You Ta’ala and Your Habib SallAllahu alaihi wassalam. O Allah, reward us and instill within us the distinguished features and august character of Your Most Beloved, who You sent as the perfection of mankind. Ameen.

Keep yourself patient with those who call on their Lord morning and evening seeking to honour Allah; and do not disregard them, seeking the finery of the life of this world. (18:28)

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen.

A ramble….which I may have to terminate any moment, so if it stops abruptly check later for the continuation, Insha’Allah. Just when I began to contemplate embarking on a few of my "extra curricula" activities, thinking all connections with Hujjaj were over, two phone calls promptly reminded me that The Master Planner, and The Best of Planners, Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala is the one deciding how I should be spending my time. Once again we have more Hajj-radiant house guests and others to visit, so this space may be bereft of a few posts yet again. Alhumdulillah.

The following "ramble" has been "incubating", sparked by an amazing story of Muhammad ibn ‘Aamir, a 130 year old man, living in the southern Asir region, seeking his 13^th wife. The article described aspects of his typical and simple Bedouin lifestyle, his camels and goats providing most of his needs throughout this incredible time given him by Allah Ta’ala. Intriguing.
More than a century of living without what we consider "essentials", running water, electricity providing air conditioning in the searing summer, refrigeration, lighting. Though there have been reports relaying how some of the modern day Bedouins have a generator for….a washing machine….and a satellite dish!

The same day this article was published I was "strolling" along Quba Street with one of our guests. As the name suggests, one direction of the divided street leads to Masjid Quba from just near the date market, and the other way is the opposite, leading back to Haram. It is an extremely busy area with shops lining these two streets, mainly offering, (in my old fashion humble opinion) all sorts of titillating "nafs" things. Bridal outfits, jewellers, mobile phones, clothing, cologne, and and and. All these seem to be richly decorated with the same attention to glitz and sparkle. Head to toe diamantes, with the "must have" matching stamp of individuality dangling off the mobile phone.

We made everything on earth an ornament for it, that We might test which of them are best in behaviour. (18:7)

AND naturally… SHOES!!!!!!

I contemplate the type of shoes Muhammad ibn ‘Aamir and his family may have had throughout their lives, along with the nature of the terrain they would have traversed. And the significance placed on them compared to now.
I had a pair of Birkenstock sandals for decades. The stories they could tell. They were an extension of my feet, so practical, comfortable, durable and so much loved….by me. Not by many of my dear friends, who tried so many tactics to get me to "update." My response was that they were sufficient until my grave, only ever needing "retreads", and that I only had one pair of feet, which could only ever accommodate one pair of shoes at a time. Many gifts of shoes have been offered to me, but Alhumdulillah, Allah Ta’ala Willed that each time I dutifully tried these different shoes on, they were always too big! I was saved!

On many occasions since being here they would be conveniently "hidden" when visiting various gatherings of sisters, as they looked so forlorn amidst the latest models as seen in the photo. When I came to leave such gatherings I would seek my faithful "soles" where I had left them outside the house, much to the giggles and chuckles of the young girls, who would fetch them from some remote out of the way place! Other times children have run aghast to their mother, upon seeing my sandals at the door to the ladies area, asking who is the man in there, as the Birkenstock unisex "cult" is unknown here, and they look too much like a man’s sandal.

Then one fateful day they were no longer. The greatest remorse was that they "disappeared" from a shoe rack in the Haram Makkah! I have been with others who had experienced their shoes missing from there, but never thought these scruffy things would appeal to any body, so never bothered when I left them. I was devastated. It was as though some one had amputated my feet. Initially I was so angry, and held the disbelief and anger for so long. Especially as the temporary replacements were a cheap SR10, and felt as though I was walking on pieces of spongy bread.

Soon after I happened to read the following story.

One Wali was on his way to perform Hajj, having all his money in a small pouch. A thief stole this money and ran away. After some distance the thief suddenly became blind, and became so terrified that he started screaming. He soon realized that the person he robbed must have been a very pious man and that Allah Ta’ala had taken away his sight as a punishment for his crime. His screaming attracted a crowd to whom he told the story. He asked them to help him find the man he had stolen from so he could return the money and repent. When they found the Wali, the thief dropped to his feet and started begging for his forgiveness for having robbed him. The Wali said: "I forgave you the moment you ran with my money." The people were very surprised to hear that someone would so quickly forgive the thief who had robbed him, and so they asked why.
The Wali replied: "The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam said that he will not enter Jannah until the accounting of his Ummah has been completed. I thought to myself that if I were not to forgive this man right away, then this case will be presented in Allah Ta’ala’s Court on the Day of Judgement and would delay my Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam’s entry into Jannah for as long as it takes to be resolved. I do not wish to be a cause of my Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam’s entry into Jannah. This Hadith came to me as soon as this man stole my pouch and so I forgave him immediately."

SubhanAllah!

(To be continued….other duties call.)

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen.

FLIGHT TO LIGHT

Following Allah Ta’ala’s Will, totally submissive to His Hikmah and His Knowledge, the travellers zigzagged across unfamiliar territory from Makkah to Yathrib.
The green line indicates the common caravan route, while the red shows the divergent path chosen for their flight.
How willing are we to criss-cross boundaries of hardship and explore new aspects of instilling the Deen into our everyday journey? To traverse our individual "mountains" and "deserts" in order to reach the goal of radiance in what has been prescribed for us?

It was in the summer months, the unrelenting sun a daily companion, along with all the hazards of the ruthless terrain. There was no better provision, nor weapons than the prayers of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam as they wound their way northward:

My Lord, let me enter by the entry of truth and let me exit by the exit of truth. And grant me authority from You to help. (17:80)

Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wassalam knew that for The Message to reveal its hidden truth, and to reach the peak of achievement, was possible only by turning and imploring the Creator, seeking His support and favour, with his entire being.

For the One Who prescribed the Qur’an for you will surely bring you home once more. (28:85) was revealed as they journeyed.

How often do we voice our concerns in spreading and propagating The Message, so that we too will be assured of being guided "home once more"? Maybe we face difficulties, but then the actual Hijrah as the Qur’an narrates it is that of doing what is difficult in a disciplined, faithful, dedicated, cautious, sincere and honest manner:

I am never unmindful of the work of a worker among you, male or female, You are from each other. So for those who emigrated or were driven from their homes or suffered harm for My sake, or fought or were killed, I will efface their evils and admit them to gardens below which rivers flow, as a reward from the presence of Allah. And the finest reward is in the presence of Allah. (3:195)

On the twelfth day of travel, the midday sun at its zenith, they crossed the blacked Harra, the residue of ancient volcanic activity. The grey-green vegetation of palm groves not only coloured the landscape but also their hearts, recalling the description known to the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam, "the well watered land between two tracts of black stone." Thirteen years of oppression, torture and condemnation finally ended at this Mubarak place, Quba, on the outskirts of what was to become the City of Light.  

This present day view of Masjid Quba, nestled amongst the date palms, transports us back to that momentous midday. SubhanAllah!
When the crowd gathered to catch a glimpse, many were unable to distinguish Abu Bakr RadhiAllahu anhu from the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam. It was not until Abu Bakr RadhiAllahu anhu held his garment to shade the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam that they then realized who he was. SubhanAllah! Imagine the sight, the excitement, the joy, THE LIGHT!  

As we embrace this new Islamic year, may we too make a "flight to light", a brave and courageous migration of the heart to Allah Ta’ala, confronting the hidden darkness silently lurking where luminosity should dwell. The greater the Iman, the brighter the light, the sweeter the taste.

May we all inwardly reflect upon the deeper significance of the Hijrah of the Bringer of Light, the Light of Light, and the Best of Creation SallAllahu alaihi wassalam.

May the very comforting sentiments from our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam’s lips to Abu Bakr RadhiAllahu anhu: “What do you think of two when Allah is their third?” be respite enough in our challenge while striving towards the light, echoing throughout the Ummah, What do you think of a people when Allah is with them?

"O the Full Moon rose over us

From the Valley of Wada`

And we owe it to show gratefulness

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen. 

Camel conversations at the local market the other day!

When I first saw this camel she had her long neck fully stretched out along the ground in front of her, but as soon as she heard me approach she stood…..and then

came closer, beginning her life story…. 

 inquiring if I understood…..

content and satisifed that she has spoken her mind….

opposite was a mother and her new baby…. 

curious about my intentions…. 

Previous post elaborates more on these magnificent creatures.

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen. 

WINDOWS

Eyes see the tangible.

Rotting wood, shadow stitch gauze, sunlit flecks.

A fortification assuming to obstruct the apparent from the Divine.

 But, archaic window, your restrictive void

Secretly unlocks desires beyond the tactile and the visible.

An impassioned flare in the heart

Is enough to escape your  imprisonment.

Yearning for The One and His Emissary

Release us from the confines of the manifest.

We race to visit a different window, a sublime opening.

Over and over.

Time and time again.

Lovers, as bees to nectar.

Wrapped in robes of faith.

Sparkling beads of hope embellish woven threads of humility.

Icy wind shivers translate into a palpitating buzz.

Beards glisten with sobs of love,

Scarves cling to tear stained cheeks.

Words swirl around domes, arches and chandeliers,

Soaring on feathered wings

As salutations drown the cooing of doves.

Gold adornments tarnish,

Itr rendered odourless,

Lackluster trinkets lie inertly entombed

IN YOUR PRESENCE SallAllahu alaihi wassalam.

A lucid stillness encompasses your silken repose.

Tranquility conceived within the zeal,

Nurtured by ecstatic repetition.

Senses blinded by the unseen.

Your moon-like luminosity renders all barriers invisible.

Blessings and peace be upon you O Messenger of Allah,

Blessings and peace be upon you O Prophet of Allah,

Blessings and peace be upon you O beloved of Allah,

Blessings and peace be upon you O friend of Allah,

Blessings and peace be upon you O chosen one of Allah.

Blessings and peace be upon you O best of creation,

Blessings and peace be upon you O Makkan prophet of Allah,

Blessings and peace be upon you O Qurayshi Prophet of Allah,

Blessings and peace be upon you O Madinian Prophet of Allah,

Blessings and peace be upon you O one whom Allah selected.

Blessings and peace be upon you O the one whom Allah greatened,

Blessings and peace be upon you O vice-regent of Allah,

Blessings and peace be upon you O the one who leads to the presence of Allah,

Blessings and peace be upon you O purest one of Allah,

Blessings and peace be upon you O proof of Allah.

Blessings and peace be upon you O mercy of Allah,

Blessings and peace be upon you O light of Allah,

Blessings and peace be upon you O Messenger of Allah,

Blessings and peace be upon you O owner of the crown and the mi’raj,

Blessings and peace be upon you O owner of the Pool and the river al-Kawthar.

Blessings and peace be upon you O possessor of the intercession,

Blessings and peace be upon you O the one who has been blessed,

Blessings and peace be upon you O seal of prophethood and revelation,

Blessings and peace be upon you O Madinian Prophet,

Blessings and peace be upon you O Prophet from the noble sanctuary.

Blessings and peace be upon you O Hijazi Prophet,

Blessings and peace be upon you O Tihami Prophet,

Blessings and peace be upon you O Hashimi Prophet,

Blessings and peace be upon you O Qurayshi Prophet,

Blessings and peace be upon you O purified Prophet,

Blessings and peace be upon you O unlettered Prophet.

A selection from Salatul Akbar: From The Key to Arriving at the Door of the Messenger, Shaykh Muhammad Sadiq Alawi.

This salutation is called Salatul Akbar because it lists the beautiful characteristics of the Prophet Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wassalam. It is particularly recited by lovers of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam and is recommended for the fulfillment of needs.

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen. 

DATE STONES 

[Prophet], have you considered those who claim purity for themselves? No! Allah purifies whoever He will: no one will be wronged by as much as the husk of a date stone. (4:49)

Do they have any share of what he possesses? If they did they would not give away so much as the groove of a date stone. (4:53)   

Little is the enjoyment in this world, the Hereafter is far better for those who are aware of Allah: you will not be wronged by as much as the fibre in a date stone.  (4:77)

Lo! It is Allah who splits open the grain of corn and the date-stone. (6:95)

The Arabs use the word "naqeer," "fateel" and "qitmeer" to describe something insignificant. A "naqeer" is the incision on the date stone, "fateel" is the string, or thread that is found in this groove, and "qitmeer" is the skin of the date stone. Such rich language describing this tiny part of the date we hardly notice. And yet Allah Ta’ala mentions the date palm, its fruit and the stone or seed several times in His Book, SubhanAllah, as well as numerous Ahadith referring to the date stone.  

Hudhaifah and Abu Dharr RadhiAllahu anhuma reported that when the Prophet, SallAllahu alaihi wassalam went to bed, he would say, "O Allah, by Your name I live and die." And when he woke up he said, "Praise be to Allah Who gave us life after death and to Him is the return." He placed his right hand under his cheek and prayed, three times, "O Allah, save me from Your punishment on the day when You will raise Your creature." He would also say, "O Allah, Lord of the heavens, the earth, and the Mighty Throne, our Lord and the Lord of everything, Who causes the seed to grow and the date-stone to split and sprout, Who sent down Taurah, Injil, and the Qur’an, I seek refuge in You from the evil of all evil-mongers under Your Control. You are the First and there is nothing before You, and You are the Last, and there is nothing after You. You are the Evident and there is nothing beyond You, and You are the Source and there is no power beside You. Relieve us of our debt and poverty." (Bukhari.)

And similar wording, specifically linking the Greatness of Allah Ta’ala to the date stone in another beautiful Du’a: when Fatimah RadhiAllahu anha came to the Prophet, SallAllahu alaihi wassalam, asking him to give her a servant, he said, "Say, ‘O Allah, the Lord of the seven heavens, and the Magnificent Throne, our Lord and the Lord of all things, the Revealer of the Torah, Injil, and the Qur’an, The Splitter and Grower of the seed grain and date stone, I seek Your refuge against the evil of all things that You hold under Your control. You are the First, there is nothing before You. You are the Last, and there is nothing after You. You are the Manifest and there is nothing above You, You are Innermost and there is nothing beyond You. Remove the burden of debt from us and relieve us from want.’" (Muslim)

Narrated Anas RadhiAllahu anhu that when ‘Abdur-Rahman bin Auf RadhiAllahu anhu came to Medina, the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam established a bond of brotherhood between him and Sad bin Ar-Rabi al-Ansari RadhiAllahu anhu. Sad was a rich man, so he said to ‘Abdur-Rahman, "I will give you half of my property and will help you marry." ‘Abdur-Rahman RadhiAllahu anhu said to him, "May Allah bless you in your family and property. Show me the market." ‘Abdur-Rahman RadhiAllahu anhu did not return from the market till he gained some dried buttermilk, yogurt and butter through trading. He brought that to his house-hold. We stayed for sometime, as long as Allah wished, when one day ‘Abdur-Rahman RadhiAllahu anhu came, scented with yellowish perfume. The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam said to him: "What is this?" He replied, "I got married to an Ansari woman." The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam asked, "What did you pay her?" He replied, "Gold equal to the weight of a date stone." The Prophet said to him, "Give a wedding banquet, even if with one sheep."

Asmaa, RadhiAllahu anha, when first married to az-Zubair RadhiAllahu anhu used to grind date stones as food for the camels. Many narrations report how the Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum would suck on date stones for days when faced with not having any other nourishment. While we read of how many would use date stones as counters for their Dhikr.

I know of one sister who has one thousand date stones in a pouch, along with a large white cloth and several laminated copies of Durood Tunjina. As visitors arrive, she places the pile of stones on the cloth, gives a copy of the Durood to each visitor, who then begins reciting the Durood, along with all assembled. Each takes a date stone for each recitation and then places it in front of them, until all stones from the pile are finished. SubhanAllah, such a way of welcoming others, filling the heart and the house with Nur!  

It is we who, like the tulip in the desert of Medina,

Bear in our heart the scar of longing for Medina.
Passionate longing for Paradise may disappear from the wise man’s head, but

It is not possible that the passionate longing for Medina should leave him.

The Tuba tree that has lifted its head on the apex of the Throne

Is only a branch from the garden-adorning palm tree of Medina.
When you eat dates, kiss their kernels, for

The kernels of the dates of Medina are the beads of the angels’ rosary!

Rumi

Maybe these final resplendent lines from Rumi’s poem explain why I hoard date stones! 

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen. 

Morning till evening around Masjid Nabawi

Insha’Allah, send Durood abundantly upon Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wassalam on Juma’ah, because the Durood of the Ummah is presented to him by the Angels every Juma’ah, while he SallAllahu alaihi wassalam makes Du’a and Ishtighfar for the reciter.

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen. 

Alhumdulillah for the opportunity for khidmah, serving others! Hence posts have been scant, and may be so for another few days.

In and around Masjid Nabawi continues to be alive with activity, both of "Hajj-Radiant" pilgrims, soaking in the Radiance of this Enlightened City, and the many and varied on going construction and maintenance work.

A massive excavation, being shored up with the mandatory lining of walls with concrete, as protetion against the water aquifiers underlying the area. The Shariah courts on the right, beyond which is the Aswaq Al-Haram opposite the glorious Abode of Peace. All construction activuty seems to attract many curious and fascinated on lookers, who line the fences spending time watching the amazing array of machines and equipment operating. The building with the blue tinted windows is where I was visiting before Hajj and the photos in this post were taken from.

An artists impression of the final design being built on this site, scanned from an advertisement. The Arabic saying; OWN IT NOW! I propose we all contribute to purchasing the top floor with a permanent uninterrupted view of where our Beloved Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wassalam is. Imagine! Swoon! SubhanAllahu! Du’a!

Looking south from the Oberoi building onto the eastern side of Haram, towards Janntaul Baqi and the site of the extension of Masjid Nabawi. The work is still at the underground car park stage.

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen. 

Jazakumullah khairan katheeran Yusuf, Maryam and Asiyah for these delightful contributions to almiskeenah. May Allah Ta’ala answer your yearning with a visit very soon, along with all who have this yearning in their hearts.

Ameen. 

backtracking…..with a few scans……

A panorama of the new Jamarat bridge, the direction of Arafat towards the right, Makkah to the left via a pedestrian tunnel. On the original Masjid Aqaba was visible, behind the bridge (approximately 3cm in from the left hand edge of this image) while the compound we were in hugs the mountain just beyond the new group of residential towers to the right.

The following three images are from "The View From Above: Superb, Refreshing and Fantastic"

I have included this one that appears in the article as a slightly larger version as it is such a stunning photo. 

"an imposing structure, lined with tower cranes just waiting to start working again. The pilgrims are mere dots creeping slowly up, down and around the bridge. They cluster tightly around the three Jamrat, which are walls jutting up from the bridge’s surface." Construction has already resumed, the massive support columns lining the sides of the walkway awaiting the addition of more levels.

"At Mina, the tents stretch out in waves with Al-Kuwaiti Mosque floating in the center of the swells. King Abdul Aziz Bridge is a slash through tent city."

I realize these scans from print editions are somewhat hazy, but still do not diminish the grandeur of the Hajj. The following images document, for those who have just completed the Pilgrimage, the improved system of clearing the areas around the Jamarat, as well as for those who witnessed how congested it was in the past, and for those who Allah Ta’ala is preparing to call to Him for next Hajj. now being the time to firm your intention and beg in Tahajjud for this invitation, Insha’Allah. The red barriers indicating areas to be kept vacant, patrolled around the clock by security personel.

An aerial view of the thousands of vehicles parked on the Day of Arafat, SubhanAllah. Any wonder the short journey to Muzdalifah became a marathon of sitting in the bus for twenty plus hours! This surely is the next project for the authorities to be thinking of implementing a better system, with many suggesting rail links between the three main Holy Sites. 

A section of the tedious stop start traffic entering Makkah. While some were in air conditioned coaches, others had standing room only in the back of cattle trucks, or in cramped conditions on the top of buses and vans. Studies have been made regarding the toxic fumes of carbon monoxide, especially in the long tunnels were transport can be stuck for hours, with frightening levels recorded. May Allah Ta’ala accept all the various hardships all may have endured and guide those in planning to continue to make improvements. Ameen.

And congestion of a different kind….a herd of camels off to the slaughter house.

No person does anything on the day of sacrifice that Allah the Most High likes more than the shedding of the blood of a sacrificial animal, for the animal will appear on the Day of Judgment with its horns and hoofs, and the blood is spilt in the presence of Allah Most High even before it touches the ground; therefore, be pleased with it." In the Tradition it is related that "Every bit of wool on its skin is accounted to you as a good deed and likewise every drop of its blood; it will be put on the scale; therefore, rejoice." The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam said, "Select your sac­rificial animal, for they are your mounts on the Day of Judgment."

Abu Hurairah RadhiAllahu anhu reported that the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam said: "One who performs Hajj and one who performs Umrah are Allah’s guests; if they invoke Allah, He responds to them, and if they seek his forgiveness, he forgives them."

May all Hujjaj be blessed with this Promise, Ameen, and their actions reflect this blessing for the sake of the entire Ummah, Ameen.

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen. 

 

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Janazah after Salatul Asr, may Allah Ta’ala fill their Qabr with Nur and the fragrance of Jannah and bless all the dwellers of Jannatul Baqi with peace and tranquilty as they await to be raised with our most beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam. Ameen.

I then visited a group of "Hajj-Radiant" sisters from Karachi who were staying on the top floor of the Movenpick hotel, where the following photos were taken from. 

Looking south, the direction of Qiblah on the western side of Masjid Nabawi. The new construction running the length of Haram on the right. 

Just to the right of this new construction is the lush garden of Saqeefa, and the four Musalla masaajid at the opposite end to the left. Jabal Eyr, the Bab of Jahannam in the background marking the southern sacred boundary of  of Haram.

The Jewel of Domes, protecting the Jewel of Creation SallAllahu alaihi wassalam. Jannatul Baqi to the left. You can see the closed umbrellas rising up from the two central courtyards.

Adahn at Maghrib 

Women offering Salat in the western courtyard. 

 All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen.

 
Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah is once again overflowing with seekers. A gentle calm permeates the throngs, the Hajj, the object of their journeying now in the past. Maybe hearts are turned to expectant reunions with loved ones, to inner reflection on all they have been through, to sharing experiences with others. But mainly the visit to this Chosen Sanctuary is to come close to Allah Ta’ala’s Habib SallAllahu alaihi wassalam, whispering the sweetest of greetings to the most gentle of mankind, SubhanAllah. Imploring the Master of the Highest Station SallAllahu alaihi wassalam with such hidden intimacies, and seeking his intercession, having arrived cleansed and forgiven after fulfilling the rites of the Pilgrimage.

The longing to be invited by the King of Kings to His House now transformed into an inevitable departure. The rehearsal of severing ties to face our Rabb, stripped of all attachments about to end. Decisions and planning having blossomed.  Preparations for the enactment of the awesome Day of Reckoning now in the past. May we have learnt the parallels between this journey and that which awaits us to our Final Abode. Every step, every breath, every sigh, every tear, every utterance, every hardship, every encounter, every Du’a, cemented as a reminder of our final journey. Are our plans for this as diligent as they have been for this Hajj? Do our goodbyes truly reveal a total submission to The Almighty? Do the attachments of all that this world contains, claim too much of our attention? What provisions are we now concerned with? The dress we all will be wearing in our Qabr, the bier we will be transported on, the quality of the creatures destined to devour our flesh that is so concerned about what it consumes, the decorations on the walls of this temporary home of dirt?

A timely reminder; taken from the window of one of the newly completed hotels I had the opportunity to visit. Jabal Uhud in the background.

May the journey we have just completed make the eventual one to our everlasting abiding place, to which all things return, easier, with lessons learnt, purpose oriented, priorities etched, goals marked, determination strengthened, Iman renewed, steadfastness on the obedience to the Commands of Allah Ta’ala, and an unadulterated passion for implementing the Sunnah of our Noble Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam. Ameen.

And for all who may not have been physically present in the roll call of this year, your participation in following the rites and rituals, and the inherent longing of every Muslim heart to fulfill this duty surely is witnessed and Insha’Allah rewarded. Now being the time to establish the firm intention to be called in the future. May we all waver between hope to be a guest, and fear not to be, and willingly be stripped of all might and power.

Imam Ghazzali says in his "Secrets of Hajj"

"As for longing [to perform the Pilgrimage]: this results from understanding and from the realization that the House belongs to God Most High, that it was established on the analogy of a royal palace such that whoever visits it is [in reality] visiting God Most High and whoever betakes himself to the House [while] in this life is worthy not to have his visit wasted, for the object of the visit, which is the vision of God Most High, will be granted to him in its fixed time in the Eternal Residence. For the finite and perishable eye is not prepared, while still in this life, to receive Light with which to see the Face of God Most High; it is not able to bear that Light, nor is it fit, because of its finiteness, to be adorned [with that Light]. But when it is granted immortality in the life to come and freed from the cause of change and mortality, it becomes ready for the vision and the Sight. And because of [its intention] to visit the House and to look at it, it deserves to meet the lord of the House by virtue of Gracious Promise. The longing to meet God Most High most surely makes one long for the means of that meeting. Besides, every lover is longing for everything that has any connection with his lovers, the house is connected to God Most High; therefore it is pro­per for [the pilgrim] to have a keen desire for it just because of this connection, quite apart from any desire to receive the great re­ward which has been promised to him."

May all be blessed with facing Him with the face of the heart as we face His House with the face of our ex­terior.

The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam ­said, "Allah most High has promised this House that six hundred thousand persons will make a pilgrimage to it every year; and if the pilgrims are short of that number Allah most High will complete their number with the angels. And He has promised that the Ka’bah will be surrounded by crowds, like a bride in procession, while all the pilgrims cling to its curtains and run about it until it enters Paradise with them along with it."

Standing in front of the Abode of Peace, a mellow afternoon sun’s warmth caressing the Soul of Peace. Fusing a bond, a celestial love. Energizing a conduit like connection. Such bliss to be "home". Alhumdulillah that Allah Ta’ala has blessed us with a heart that can contain this bliss from wherever we may be throughout His planet earth. And with the ability to conjure that notion of "home" from any corner of the globe, SubhanAllah!

My reverie broken with: "Hajjah" from beside me….a stout Turkish man requesting me to take his photo. Proudly standing as an army general in his grey uniform with red national flag sewn on the front, in front of the Green Dome. Such happiness beaming from his face. One in millions who have come to offer their Salam, and being the messenger for other distant lovers.

Imam Ghazzali continues: "As for the visit to Medina: when your eyes catch of its walls, remember that it is the town that was chosen by God Most High for His Prophet - the Blessing and Peace of God be upon him — and made the des­tination of his Flight (hijra); that it was his dwelling place, in which he promulgated the Laws of his Lord Most High and the Sunna, fought his enemy and proclaimed his religion, until the time when God Most High caused him to die; then God established in it a burial ground for him; and for his two ministers who maintained the truth after him – may God be pleased with them. Next, imagine to yourself the places where the feet of the Apostle of God — the Blessing and Peace of God be upon him – [have trodden] as he went about [the city], and [consider to yourself] that wherever your feet have trodden there too have his dear feet trodden; therefore take each step with tranquility and with awe. And remember his walking and traversing upon [the city’s] roads; picture to yourself his humility and tranquility while walking, despite what God Most High has entrusted to his heart, such as his great knowledge [about God], the exaltation of his name alongside the name of the Most High to the extent that [God] has joined him to the rememb­rance of Himself, and the rendering vain of the deeds of those who vilify him even by way of raising their voice higher than his. And remember the Grace that God Most High bestowed on those who enjoyed his companionship and were fortunate to have been with him and to have listened to his speech. Be exceeding by sorrowful over having been de­nied [the opportunity to be] his companion or the companion of his com­panions — may God be pleased with them. Remember that it has not been given to you to see him in this life, and that to see him in the life to come is to place yourself in jeopardy; for it may be that you will grieve when you see him, having been barred from him [after] he had blamed you for bad deeds, as he said — the Blessing and Peace of God be upon him — "God will bring before me [on the Day of Resurrection] some people [who will call on me] saying, ‘0 Muhammad! ‘0 Muhammad! Then I say, My Lord! They are my companions! And God will say, ‘You do not know what they have introduced after you [had died]. Then I say, ‘Go away." Therefore, if you neglect the sanctity of his law, even of a minute thing, you have no guarantee that you will not be barred from him because of you straying from his right way. Nevertheless, have great hope that you will not be barred from him, for you have been blessed by God Most High with faith and have been brought hither from your home country in order to visit him, [being motivated], not by any [concern with] commerce or worldly gain, but only by your love of him and your longing to see his traces and the wall of his tomb. Since, having not been [privileged to] see the Prophet [in this world], you have been prompted to travel by these considerations alone, you are most worthy to be looked upon by God Most High with [His] Gracious Eye.                                

When you reach the mosque [of the Prophet at Medina], remem­ber that it is the place that has been chosen by God Most High for His Prophet — the Blessing and Peace of God be upon him — and for the first band of Moslems and the best of all, that the laws of God Most High were the first thing to be established in that place and that [this mosque] contained the best of all the creatures of God, living or dead. Increase your hope in God Most High, that He will forgive you for entering it. Enter with solemnity and reverence. How deserving it is [of solemnity and reverence it is] from the heart of every believer, as Abu Sulayman is reported to have said: "’Uways al-Qarni — may God be pleased with him — has performed Pilgrimage and entered Medina. When he stopped by the gate of the mosque, it was said to him,’ This is the grave of the Prophet — the Blessing and Peace of God be upon him’–­Thereupon, he fainted. When he awoke, he said, "Let me go out, it is not proper for me to be in a town where Muhammad — the Blessing and Peace of God be upon him — is buried."
[the pilgrim] should keep his heart in [a state of] sadness, and fear; [it is proper that] he remain uncertain whether his Pilgrimage has been accepted, [in which case] he has been confirmed as belonging to the group of beloved ones, or not, [in which case] he has been included among the banished ones. Let him find this out through [the testimony of] his heart and his actions; if he finds that his heart is more disenchanted with the Abode of vanity [i.e. the World], and more inclined toward the Abode of Fellowship with God Most High to the Law, let him be certain that [he is] accepted; for God accepts only him whom He loves. And whomever He loves He helps, show­ing to him the effects of love; such a one he protects against the power of his enemy, ‘Iblis — God curse him. If this apparent [from the pil­grims piety and lawful behavior], then it is an indication of his ac­ceptance. If the opposite is the case, then it is certain that toil and trouble will be the reward of his journey. We seek protection through God Most High from that."

Glory and praise belong to You, O my Lord, and I am unable to glorify You as You have glorified Yourself. You have blessed Your slaves from every corner of Your Earth, bringing them to the light of belief, to the Majesty of Your House, and the honour of Your Habib SallAllahu alaihi wassalam’s presence, allowing us to complete the rites of Pilgrimage. O Allah, send blessings, prayers and peace upon our Master Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wassalam, the unlettered Prophet, the beloved of great worth and standing, and upon his family and Companions. Ameen.

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen. 

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 a new beginning, birth.

Ya Allah, Ya Lateef, may the reality of emerging from responding to Your call, of being Your guest, be that all are blessed with being cleansed and purified. Make us ardent devotees, so enamoured of You and Yours SallAllahu alaihi wassalam, that joy and contentment are as encrusted jewels in all of our affairs.

The yellow banner on the central concrete wall was where we were staying. Four thousand internal Hujjaj from all over the Kingdom were in this group, predominantly Saudis, with a few of us being the exception, originating from Jordon, America, Egypt, Kenya, Australia, that I was aware of. Allahu ‘Alum, there may have been others.

There were fifty one steps up to the first level, seeming like Mount Everest after returning from walking to Makkah or from the Jamarat! Being a group organized by and for Saudis, segregation on the buses and in the compounds was strictly in place, the men’s section to the left with the ladies to the right with security checks at the main entrance as well as entering the women’s area. The Madian women occupied the equivalent of five tents, divided into two sections. Staff in the ladies section were mainly Nigerian and Indonesian girls.   

Overlooking the sea of tents from the compound. One of the Royal Palaces on the mountain in the background.

"Hajj is Arafat"; a day far too precious to be thinking of taking photos. This was quickly taken as Maghrib was approaching, many had already left this hill, making their way towards the main arteries to Muzdalifah.  

Looking from one of the two outer edges of the Shaytan pillar after stoning on the second day. SubhanAllah with the new arrangements the stoning ritual has become so easy compared to before. I was able pelt the Shaytan with so much venom from the immediate edge of the huge elliptical rim without fear of being trampled. The constant clicking sound of pebbles reverberating off the rugged texture of the pillar, along with the emotional outbursts against all that the Shaytan represents, created an amazing electric atmosphere in the massive lower enclosed area.

An evening view from our tents. The blue lights indicate where the Jamarat was, just behind the corner of the mountain. Note the people without tent accommodation already settled along the roadside for the night. It was very cold during the nights and mornings, and at times extremely windy, making the conditions quite harsh for those seeking a place to sleep. The security men attempting to move them from blocking the roads, so groups would be seen gathering their meager belongings seeking another piece of ground to settle, to be told to move on again and again. The squatting was far less around the vital routes leading to and from the Jamarat. The main tent city area was beyond the stoning towards Makkah, past Masjid Aqaba, where the tents were dense along with hundreds selling the usual trinkets, clothing and food.

Every possible patch of land was prime real estate!

The entrance to our Mina "home", decorated with coloured flags, artificial trees and greenery and flashing fairy lights! After returning from Arafat tinsel was strung along the corridors adding even more of a festive air to the maze inside. Many of us giggled as "couples" would "rendezvous" at the various scattered plastic chairs creating a "romantic" ambiance!

While walking to the Jamarat on the last day we saw the crew dismantling this arrangement.   

In many ways I felt this Hajj to be far too luxurious compared to past memories of walking the entire time. Alhumdulillah, circumstances dictate different requirements. There were the usual 5 Star suites at SR80,000 for the few days! This bought the occupants a ritzy place with satellite dish and full internet connection, a Jacuzzi, international cuisine with professional chefs etc. The detail that amused me was that a tray of "selected" pebbles was presented to the Hajji so they could hand pick the best ones to be thrown!

May Allah Ta’ala guide us all to that which earns his favours and pleasure. May we all develop a love and desire to make this journey, supplicating tirelessly to Allah Ta’ala to grant us this so we may have the ability to see His House again and again. Ameen.

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen. 

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This photo epitomizes my Hajj.

Burning of desires to complete Hajj Maqbool.

Shining sparks of newly kindled friendships.

Incandescent glow exuding from every soul present.

Searing meltdown of hearts.

Brilliance of the ultimate focus.

Warm fervor amidst grueling hardship.

Crimson tones of Dhikr filling the air.

Flickering lights inspiring the next step.

Tempestuous whirlwind flaming passions for The Beloved.

Fiery furnace reminding of all that is anathema.

Scorching of the separation of the dross.

Illuminance of the Farewell Hajj in the imagination.  

Smoldering incinerator of nefarious nafs.

Sizzling emotions as Shaytan is stoned.

Torrid flames as a deterrent of potential punishment.

Striations of a corrugated Dunya to seek beyond.  

Combustion of love for Rasulullah SallAllahi alaihi wassalam.  

Ignition heralding a new birth.  

Celebratory fireworks symbolic of completed rituals.

Dazzle of new born souls!

The image was taken from the bus journey from Arafat, looking across a rickety corrugated fence towards the lights of Masjid Namirah. This interlude in the bus grew to be twenty hours!

Do you also see Alhumdulillah emblazoned in lights?

May Allah Ta’ala accept the efforts of all Hujjaj. May they be the recipients of the promises of our Rabb. And may all who were called to Allah Ta’ala for this Hajj have the courage and conviction to make glowing changes from within as a result of their experiences and in gratitude for this journey. Ameen.

Jazakumullahu khairan katheeran abadan for all have left comments during my absence. May Allah Ta’ala shower you and yours with His best Barakah. Ameen.

The following articles are from recent editions of Arab News. The print edition throughout the Hajj published many photographs, but they do not seem to be available online.  

http://www.arabnews.com/?page=1&section=0&article=90667&d=6&m=1&y=2007

http://www.arabnews.com/?page=1&section=0&article=90627&d=5&m=1&y=2007

http://www.arabnews.com/?page=1&section=0&article=90592&d=3&m=1&y=2007

http://www.arabnews.com/?page=1&section=0&article=90593&d=3&m=1&y=2007

http://www.arabnews.com/?page=1&section=0&article=90594&d=3&m=1&y=2007

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen.