March 30, 2007
Ya Rabb,
Praises swirl.
Are swirling.
Will swirl,
Since You commanded the Pen
To write
Laa ilaha illAllah Muhammadur Rasulullah.
Until Your Divine Decree is revealed.
Ya Rabb,
Tears fall.
Are falling,
Will fall
Since You manifest Your Light
SallAllahu alaihi wasallam
Illuminating all.
Until nothing remains but Your Face.
Ya Rabb,
Gratitude sings.
Is singing,
Will sing,
Since You imparted Your Mercy.
Until You command the Trumpet Blast.
Ya Rabb,
Love flows.
Is flowing,
Will flow,
Since the gift of Your Love amongst us.
For Eternity.
INSHA’ALLAH
Ya Rabb, Bless the Best of Your Creation SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, his family and companions with the best from Your Treasures in every instant, in every breath, in every movement, in every stillness, in every sound, in every silence, in every atom of Your creation, in every letter of Your knowledge, in all that is seen and all that is unseen. Ya Rabb, since You are infinite, our Lord only to be known through Unity, include us among the ones You love, the ones who praise, the ones who shed tears for You and Your Messenger, SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, the ones who show gratitude, Your beloved ones, Your near ones, Your knowers and Your desirers, Ya Rabb, Ya Rabb, Ya Rabb, O Bestower of Love. 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. May He accept our humble efforts and grant us the capacity to be good and do good. Ameen.
March 28, 2007
BAB AS-SALAM, the Door of Greeting, or the Door of Peace. Umar ibn Khattab RadhiAllahu anhu was the first to establish the origianl Bab As-Salam. It has become the preferred door to enter for seeking an audience with our Noble Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, as one greets his resplendent head first, Allahu Akbar!
O Allah, grant us acceptance among Your Friends and Angels under the banner of Your Prophet here and hereafter.
O Messenger of Allah, Salam Alaik! We come to you burdened with sins and countless requests and needs, we come seeking your intercession with our Lord, pleading for His generosity.
O Allah, we turn to You with Your Prophet of Mercy.
O Allah, send continual, renewed, revived and endless blessings, peace and felicitations upon Your Chosen One , his family and companions, Ameen.
O Allah, open the door of greeting in our hearts wherever we may be, enabling our tongues to be constant with salutations upon Your Habib. Ameen
A pictorial history.
Early 1900’s
Early 1900’s.
1326 AH.
Water carriers; compare todays method in the photos below.
Bab Salam square 1390 AH. Sakeefat Al-Rasas on the right which included a hospital.
Al-Ein Azzarqaa building constructed during the Saud era.
After the first Saud extension.
From the inside.
Bab As-Salam, the Dome of Peace and Jannatul Baqi!
The last four photos taken this afternoon after Asr, SubhanAllah the breeze so festive. So many recently arrived pilgrims in a state of awe and wonder, enjoying the mild weather and the fragrance from our Beloved Al-Mustafa filling the air, Masha’Allah.
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. May He accept our humble efforts and grant us the capacity to be good and do good. Ameen.
March 26, 2007
Qasida Mudariyyah
O Allah, send blessings upon the Chosen One al Mukhtar from the tribe of Mudar and upon the messengers and all the prophets that have been previously mentioned.
And send blessings, O my Lord, upon the Guide and his flowers, and upon his companions who spread to maintain the religion.
They fought with him, and strove for Allah, migrated and sheltered him and were thus victorious.
They clarified the obligations (fard) and the Sunna, sought refuge in Allah and thus triumphed.
May it be the purest, most flourishing and most noble blessing, one that fragrances the universe
Diffusing the pure fragrance of musk and from its fragrance may the scent of pleasure spread.
May it be multiplied by the number of stones, the grains of soil and sand, followed by the stars in the sky, and the vegetation on the earth,
And by the weight of the mountains, followed by the drops of water and rain,
May it be multiplied by the number of leaves that the trees hold, and every letter ever to be uttered, read and scribed,
And (by the number) of beasts, birds, fish and animals, followed by the jinn, the angels and humans.
And by the number of atoms, ants and all the grains, and also by the number of hairs, wool, feathers and fur,
And by the amount of knowledge that Allah encompasses, and by what the Pen of decree and destiny has written
And by the number of all the blessings that Allah has bestowed upon the creation from the time of their creation to the time of their resurrection,
And by the magnitude of the Sublime that honoured the prophets and the angels and gave them glory,
And by the number of all things in the universes, O my Helper, and by everything that will be until the horn blows.
And with every blinking of the eyes of the people in the heavens and the earth, and in the moments of stillness,
And (multiply) by everything that the heavens and the earth contain including the mountains, and the lands, the Throne, the Footstool and whatever they encompass,
And may the blessings be by the number of what Allah has not created and by the which He has created with a continual blessing that does not end.
May it encompass the number of all things that have passed throughout the ages.
May it have no end or limitation, O Great One, nor a period that is concluded or contained.
And double the amount of what has ever been enumerated, doubled (again) and multiplied, O the One Who is Most Able.
(and send blessings) with peace, by the number of all that has been mentioned, my Lord, and multiply it, so that the blessings are spread far and wide.
And may it be multiplied by Your worth and by the breaths of Your creation whether it be much or little.
O my Lord, forgive all those who recite it, listen to it and all the Muslims wherever they may be.
And forgive our parents, our families and our neighbours, and all of us, O Master, we are in need of Your forgiveness.
I have come with sins that are innumerable, but Your forgiveness does not end or perish.
And with grief that occupies me from all that I aspire to, and I come with humility and heartbroken,
I beg You, O Lord, in both Worlds to have mercy on us, by him in whose hands the stones glorified (Allah)
O Lord, increase the good (favours upon us) and forgive us, for indeed Your Generosity is an ocean unlimited,
And alleviate the anxieties of a distressing nature, and relive us of sorrow, You are most Able.
And be kind with us in every calamity, with a beautiful kindness by which distress is no more.
By the (honour) of Mustafa, the Chosen one, the best of creation. In his praise, the chapters of (the Qur’an) were revealed.
And blessing be upon the Chosen one for as long as the sun rises and the moon shines.
And may (Your) pleasure be upon Abu Bakr, his khalifa, who maintained the religion after him victoriously,
And upon Abu Hafsa, al Faruq, his companion Umar who had the final word by his judgement.
And grant generously to Uthman the possessor of two lights, whose good qualities were accomplished with victory in both abodes.
And likewise to Ali with his two sons and upon their mother, the people of the mantle as has been related in the Hadith.
And also upon our Sayyida Khadija al-Kubra who spent her wealth for the Messenger of Allah to gain victory.
And upon the pure wives of Muatafa, and also upon his daughters and sons whenever they are mentioned.
And upon Sa’d and Sa’id son of Auf, Talha, Abu ‘Ubayda and Zubayr, Masters of the best (of people).
And upon Hamza and our Master ‘Abbas, and upon his son, the scholar through him obscurities were no more.
And upon all the family and companions and followers. For as long as the dark night covers the day, and dawn appears.
With Your pleasure, pardon and well being and a good ending, when the term approaches.
From The Key to Arrivning at the Door of the Messenger, Shaykh Muhammad Sadiq Alawi.
Arabic Qasida Mudariyyah with transliteration.
Audio Shaykh Diya
Photos taken on Juma’ah (after the previous post on the date grove), of our beloved Jabal Uhud, and its Mubarak stones! The second last photo shows Jabal Thawr at the foot of Jabal Uhud. The last one is looking away from Jabal Uhud and Jabal Thawr to the end of the sacred boundary of Haram. The feint white arch way in the middle distance indicates the end of Haram.
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. May He accept our humble efforts and grant us the capacity to be good and do good. Ameen.
March 24, 2007
“The trees answered his call, prostrating.
Walking towards him on shins (trunks) without feet.
It is as though writing lines that were written.
With their branches, calligraphically writing of his perfections.”
Qasidah Burdah, Al-Busairi
A silvery grove,
ancient and still.
A trance of sacred timelessness,
gifted by the One Beyond Time.
A soft murmur hymns praises
From a lulling score
Scribed by the Pen
Adulating the perfection of creation.
Birds flit adding harmonious chirps,
As branches join the Divine Choreography.
This Madian season of birth exudes
Golden surprises.
Bursting.
Released from secluded
Seeds of darkness,
An illumed dazzle of
Exquisite beads strung on threads
Fashioned in heavens workshop.
However the most precious of gifts
By the One Beyond Time was
The Bejewelled Gem of Brightness Itself,
Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam,
Fashioned in light from His LIGHT.
Burst with a fragrance and brilliance
Unique and enduring……
“Branches calligraphically writing of his perfections.”
The Greatest Season of Birth.
*
Allahumma Salli ‘ala Sayyidina Muhammadin Nooril Anwaari wa Sirril Asraari wa Sayyidil Abraari.
O Allah shower Your Blessings upon our Beloved Prophet Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam who is light amongst the lights, and the mystery amongst the mysteries and the leader of righteous, Ameen
Photos taken after Juma’ah yesterday near the foot of Jabal Uhud.
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. May He accept our humble efforts and grant us the capacity to be good and do good. Ameen.
March 22, 2007
And know that among you is the Messenger of Allah. (49:7)
SubhanAllah! Amongst us IS the final of Allah Ta’ala’s Prophets SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, alive through his legacy of the Bringer of the Qur’an, the manifestation of which is his Sunnah, emulating the pinnacle of virtues for us to mirror, until the Day of Judgement. Allah Ta’ala has left humanity this consistent and perpetual solace:
And know that among you is the Messenger of Allah.
SubhanAllah! Insha’Allah, the more we come to know our Beloved Al-Mustafa SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, the more we will love him, and the more we love him the more we will love to follow in his footsteps, and thus the more Allah Ta’ala will guide us and forgive us, as promised in His Book.
The world prior to the blessed manifestation of Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, was filled with darkness, and so too is our heart if it is not filled with his Light of Lights SallAllahu alaihi wasallam emanating from the Source of Lights Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala.
So how to enhance our knowing and enlighten our hearts with his blessed qualities?
One way is by meditating and reflecting on the deeper meanings and significance of the names attributed to him SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.
His SallAllahu alaihi wasallam lineage being: Muhammad Ibn-Abdullah, Ibn-Abdul-Muttalib, Ibn-Hashem, Ibn-Abd-Zanat, Ibn-Abd-Kusay, Ibn-Kilab, Ibn-Murra, Ibn-Kaab, Ibn-Louay, Ibn-Ghaleb, Ibn-Fihr; Fihr was the father of Quraysh and Fihr was a descendent of Ismail, whose father was Ibrahim.
Related Jubayr ibn Mut`im RadhiAllahu anhu: The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: “I have five names: I am Muhammad, I am Ahmad, I am al-Mâhî (the Obliterator) by whom Allah will eliminate disbelief, I am al-Hâshir (the Gatherer) since all people gather under me at the Day of Judgment, and I am al-`Âqib”. (The last in succession) [Sahîh al-Bukhârî (3532), Sahîh Muslim (2354), Sunan al-Tirmidhî (2842) and Musnad Ahmad (80/81/84)].
Abdullah ibn Abbas RadhiAllahu anhu narrates that the blessed grandfather of Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam was asked why he called our Noble Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, Muhammad, the most praised one. Why did he not use names from their ancestors? He replied: “I wanted him to be thanked on the earth by the dwellers of the earth and in the heavens by the dwellers of the heavens.” SubhanAllah!
Allah Ta’ala in the Qur’an called him SallAllahu alaihi wasallam Ahmad, the superlative adjective, the one most praiseworthy, because thanking Allah Ta’ala comes before being thanked.
Also, as Allah Ta’ala likes everything to end with words of praise, Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam being the last of His Prophets has the name of invoking praise, as well as epitomizing his truthfulness.
And as stated in Ash-Shifa of Qadi ‘Iyad, “One of the special gifts of Allah to him SallAllahu alaihi wasallam lies in the fact that He made his names contain praise of him so the immensity of his gratitude is contained in his mention. The Prophet is the most sublime of all who give praise and the best of those who are praised and the person who deserves the most praise. He is the most praised (Ahmad) of the praised and the one who praises the most. He will have the Banner of Praise on the Day of Rising as the completion of the perfection of praise for him. He will be known in that place by the attribute of praise. The first and the last generations will praise him at that time and place for his intercession on their behalf. On that day the Prophet will begin with praises which, as he said, “no one else has been given” In the books of the Prophets, his community are called “the praisers”, therefore it is only fitting that he be called Muhammad and Ahmad.”
The following is the list of 201 names of our blessed Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam from one of the translations of Al-Jazuli’s Dala’il ul Khayrat. (another. Many scholars have written volumes enumerating more than 800 names, SubhanAllah. A list is compiled in this text. An audio rendition, a pictorial list, an article elucidating how Allah Ta’ala honoured the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi with His names, and other related sites,1,2 3)
This following is long! However I encourage you to read it over and over during this auspicious month of Rabi’al Awwal so you may, with the blessings of Allah Ta’ala, be granted a more intimate closeness to His Habib SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, by understanding his SallAllahu alaihi wasallam manifold qualities, with a new realization blossoming in your heart. May we all expand our ways of praising our Beloved Muhammad, Ahmad, SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen.
Print it out and carry a copy with you during this month, keep it near where you sleep, at your work place, give it as a gift, sing it to your little ones, your old ones! Chant it to yourself, to the moon! Be infectious! DISCOVER the love and the beauty we have been so blessed with being the Ummah of Al-Mustafa SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.
O Allah, bless, sanctify and grant peace to one named Muhammad (the Praised One), Allah’s blessing and peace be upon.
O Allah, bless, sanctify and grant peace to one named Ahamd (the Most Praised ), Allah’s blessing and peace be upon.
O Allah, bless, sanctify and grant peace to one named Muhammad (the Praiser), Allah’s blessing and peace be upon.
O Allah, bless, sanctify and grant peace to one named Mahmud (the Most Highly Praised), Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Aheed (name of the Prophet in the Torah) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Wahid (Unique) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Mah (the Effacer) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Hashir (the Gatherer) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Aqib (the Last in Succession) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. TaHa (Surah of the Holy Qu’ran) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. YaSin (Surah of the Holy Qu’ran) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon Tahir (the Pure) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Mutahir (the Purifier) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Taiyeb (the Good) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Saiyed (the Master) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Rasool (the Messenger) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Nabi (the Prophet) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Rasool ur-Rahmah (the Messenger of Mercy) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Qayim (the Straight One) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Jami (the Collector) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Muqt (the Selected) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Muqi (the Best Example) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Rasool al-Malahim (the Messenger of Fierce Battles) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Rasool ur-Rahah (the Messenger of Rest) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Kamil (the Perfect) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Ikil (the Crown) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Mudathir (the Covered One) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Muzzamil (the One Wrapped One) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Abdullah (the Save of Allah) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Habibullah (the Beloved of Allah) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Safiyuallh (the Intimate of Allah) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Najiyullah (the Confidant of Allah) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Kalimullah (the Speaker of Allah) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Khatim ul-Ambiya (the Seal of the Prophets) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Khatim ur-Rasool (the Seal of the Messengers) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Muhyi (the Reviver) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Munj (the Rescuer) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Muthakkir (the Reminder) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Nasir (the Helper) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Mansoor (the Victorious One) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Nabiy ur-Rahmah (the Prophet of Mercy) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Nabi ut-Tauba(the Prophet of Repentance) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Haris Alaykum (Watchful over You) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Ma’lum (the Known One) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Shahir (the Famous) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Shahid (the Witness) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Shaheed (Witnesser) Mashhood (the Attested) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Bashir (the Newsbringer) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Mubashir (the Spreader of Good News) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Nathir (the Warner) Munthir (the Admonisher) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Nur (the Light) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Siraj(the Lamp) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Misbah (the Lantern) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon Huda (the Guidance) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Mahdi (the Rightly Guided One) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Munir(the Illumined One) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Da’a (the Caller) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Madu’u (the Called One) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Mujib (the Responsive) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Mujab (the One responded to) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Hafiy (the Welcoming) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. ‘Afw (the Overlooker of Sins) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Wali (the Friend) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Haqq (the Truth) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Qowiy (the Powerful) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Amin (the Trustworthy) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Ma’mun (the Trusted) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Karim (the Noble) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Mukarram (the Honoured) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Makin (the Firm) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Matin (the Stable) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Mubin (the Evident) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Mu’mil (the Hoped for) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Wasul (the Connection) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Dhu Quwa (the Possessor of Power) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Dhu Hurmah (the Possessor of Honour) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Dhu Makana (the Possessor of Firmness) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Dhu ‘ Azz (the Possessor Of Might) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Dhu Fadl (the Possessor of Grace) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Muta’ (the One Obeyed) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Muti’ (the Obedient) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Qadim Sidq (the Foot of Sincerity) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Rahmah (Mercy) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Burshra (the Good News) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Ghawth (the Redeemer) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Ghayth (Succour) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Ghiyath (Help) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Ni’matullah (the Blessings of Allah) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Hadiyatullah (the Gift of Allah) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. ‘Urwatu Wuthqa (the Trusty Handhold) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Siratuallah (the Path of Allah) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon. Siratumustaqim (the Straight path) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Dhikrullah (Remembrance of Allah) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon, Sayfullah (the Sword of Allah) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Hizbullah (the party of Allah) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Al-Najm ath-thaqib (the Piercing Star) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Mustafa (the Chosen One) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Mujtaba (the Select) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Muntaqa (the Eloquent) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Umiy (the Unlettered) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Mukhtar (the Chosen) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Ajeer (Allah’s Worker) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Jabbar (the Compelling) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Abu Qasim (Father of Qasim) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Abu at-Tahir (Father of Pure) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Abu at-Taiyeb (the Good Father) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Abu Ibrahim (Father of Ibrahim) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Mushafa (the One Whose Intercession is Accepted) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Shafi’ (the Interceder) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Salih (the Righteous) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Muslih (the Conciliator) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Muhaymin (the Guardian) Sadiq (the Truthful) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Musaddaq (the Confirmer) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sidq (the Sincerity) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Saiyed ul-Mursalin (the Master of the Messengers) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Imam ul-Mutaqim (the Leader of the God-Fearing) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Qayid ul-Ghur il-Muhajjilin (the Guide of the Brightly Shines Ones) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Khalil ur-Rahman (the Friends of the Merciful) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Barr (the Pious) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Mubirr (the Venerated) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Wajih (the Eminent) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Nasseh (the Adviser) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Nasih (the Counsellor) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Wakeel (the Advocate) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Mutawakil (the Reliant on Allah) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Kafeel (the Guarantor) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Shafeeq (the Tender) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Muqeem as-Sunna (the Establisher of Way) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Muqaddis (the Sacred) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Ruh ul-Qudus (the Holy Spirit) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him Ruh ul-Haqq (the Spirit of Truth) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Ruh ul-Qist (the spirit of Justice) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Kaf (the Qualified) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Muktaf (the Broad-shouldered) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Baligh (the Proclaimer) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Mubaligh (the Informer) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Shaf (the Healing) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Wasil (the Inseparable Friend) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Mawsool (the One Bound to Allah) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sabiq (the Foremost) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sa’iq (the Driver) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Had (the Guide) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Muhd (the Guided) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Muqaddam (the Overseer) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Aizz’ (the Mighty) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Fadil (the Outstanding) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Mufaddil (the Favoured) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Fatih (the Opener) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Miftah (the key) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Miftah ur-Rahman (the Key of Mercy) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Miftah ul-Jannah (the Key to the Garden ) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. ‘Alam ul-Iman (He taught the Faith) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. ‘Alm ul-Yaqeen( He Taught Certainty) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Dalail’ ul-Khayrat (Guide to Good Things) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Musahih ul-Hasanat (the Verifier of Good Deeds) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Muqeel ul-’Atharat (the Forewarner of False Steps) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Safooh ‘an az-Zallat (the Pardoner of Oppressions) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ush-Shafa’h (the Possessor of intercession) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ul-Maqam (the Possessor of the Honoured Station) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ul-Qadam (Owner of the Footprint) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Makhsoosun bil-’Azz (Distinguished with Might) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Makhsoosun bil-Majd (Distinguished with Glory) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Makhsoosun bish-Sharaf (Distinguished with Nobility) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ul-Waseelah (the Possessor of the Closest Access) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib us-Sayf (the Owner of the Sword) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ul-Fadeelah (the Possessor of Pre-eminence) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ul-Izar (the Owner of the Cloth) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ul-Hujjah (the Possessor of Proof) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him.Sahib us-Sultan (the Possessor of Authority) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ur-Rida’ (the Owner of the Robe) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ud-Darajat ir-Rafi’ (thePossessor of the Lofty Rank) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ut-Taj (the Possessor of Crown) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ul-Maghir (the Possessor of Forgiveness) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ul-Liwa’ (the Possessor of the Flag) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ul-Mi’raj (the Master of the Night Journey) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ul-Qadeeb (the Possessor of the Staff) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ul-Buraq (the Owner of Buraq) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ul-Khatam (the Owner of the Ring) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Shahib ul-’Alamah (the Owner of the Sign) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ul-Burhan (the Possessor of the Evidence) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ul-Bayan (the Possessor of Evident Proofs) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Faseeh ul-Lisan (the Good Communicatior) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Mutahhir ul-Jannan (the Purifier the Soul) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Ra’uf (the Kind) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Raheem (the Mercy-giving) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Uthan Khayr (the Good Listener) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Saheeh ul-Islam (the Completer of Islam) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Saiyed ul-Khawnain (the Master of the Two Universes) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. ‘Ayn ul-Na’eem (the Spring of Bliss) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. ‘Ayn ul-Ghur (the Spring of Beauty) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sa’dullah (the Joy of Allah) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sa’d ul-Khalq (the joy of the Creator) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Khateeb ul-Umam (the Preacher of Nations) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. ‘Alm ul-Huda (the Teacher of the Guidance) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Khashif ul-Kurb (the Remover of Worries) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Rafi’ur-Rutab (the Raiser of Ranks) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. ‘Azz ul-’Arab (the Might of the Arabs) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him. Sahib ul-Farah (the Possessor of Happiness) Allah’s blessing and peace be upon him.
O Allah, O Lord, for the honour of Your Prophet, Al-Mustafa, and Your Messenger, Al-Murtada, Purify our hearts from every characteristic which keeps us away from Your Presence and Your Love, and have us pass away following his way and in his community, longing to meet You, O Owner of Majesty and Nobility.
And the Blessings and abundant peace of Allah be upon our master Muhammad, his family and his Companions and praise be to Allah, Lord of the Worlds.
And know that among you is the Messenger of Allah.
JUMA’AH MUBARAK
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. May He accept our humble efforts and grant us the capacity to be good and do good. Ameen.
March 20, 2007
When I saw his light shining forth
In fear I covered my eyes with my palms,
Afraid for my sight because of the beauty of his form.
So I was scarcely able to look at him at all.
The lights from his light are drowned in his light
and his face shines out like the sun and moon in one.
A spirit of light lodged in a body like the moon,
a mantle made up of brilliant shining stars.
I bore it until I could bear it no longer.
I found the taste of patience to be like bitter aloes.
I could find no remedy to bring me relief
other than delighting in the sight of the one I love.
Even if he had not brought any clear signs with him,
the sight of him would dispense with the need for them.
Muhammad is a human being but not like other human beings.
Rather he is a flawless diamond and the rest of mankind is just stones.
Blessings be on him so that perhaps Allah may have mercy on us
on that burning Day when the Fire is roaring forth its sparks.
*
There is no dark eye finer than yours ,
And no mother gave birth to a more handsome one than you;
You are created without fault
As you have wish to be created…
And your praise in this world spreads,
More fragrant than the musk,
And your fortune is abundant;
Your hand has the generosity of a vast ocean
And the charity of a flowing river;
May God protect you from the envious
Who still burn with jealousy.
O my Lord! I am unable to give praise
In a manner worthy of you;
I am of poor eloquence,
And the poor usually fail…
My poems do not glorify Mohammad,
It is Mohammad who immortalizes my poems.
Hassan ibn Thabit RadhiAllahu anhu.
A Durood Flower.
May the seeds of this flower
Burst by the hour
Deep in your being
So Allah, the All-Seeing
Will bring you close to His Habib
And satisfy your every need.
Ameen.
May we all embrace this Mubarak month to be embraced by the blessings it holds. 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. May He accept our humble efforts and grant us the capacity to be good and do good. Ameen.
March 18, 2007
O MAJESTIC MOON.
O Majestic Moon, your face darkly shaded in this night of velvet. You seem to be hiding from the twinkle of the starts as you retreat, reflecting in solitude on how it was all those hundreds of years ago. How anxious you must have been peering down in your dark phase awaiting the moment the world had been created for.
O Majestic Moon, what breadth and magnitude of the signs of the Creator you have seen. Multitude displays of magnificence you have been blessed to share. Witnessing over thousands of light years the stage being readied for the time ordained when the Divinity of Allah Himself would grace humanity through His most beloved, the Mercy of the Worlds.
O Majestic Moon, created from one drop of sweat from the face of the Holy Soul of Muhammad as it recited Al-Qahhar from the Most Beautiful Names. Your entry into the realm of the tangible was a time so phenomenal, totally beyond our comprehension. O Majestic Moon, were you present when Jibril was asked by the Prophet Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam how long he had been created? Did you hear Jibril answer that he did not know? That all he knew was that every seventy thousand years a tremendous light shone forth from the Canopy of the Divine Throne, and since the time of his creation it had appeared twelve thousand times! How did you remain suspended in your orb bearing testimony to all of this O Majestic Moon? What unimaginable joy and splendor must have infused the time when there were only the souls of Angels, the Tablets and the Pen, the sun, the planets, the stars and you, before the Almighty fashioned Adam from clay.
O Majestic Moon, what heavy secrets and profound knowledge you have been given witness to through the glory of all previous prophets. What sublime teachings have been revealed, all noted by your constant presence; all leading to the coming of the crown of creation. You must have known as you attentively heard the melodious voice of Dawud sing his Zabur that words more sublime were to follow. Or as you gasped at the beauty of Yusuf that one born of the Light of the Light was destined to follow with blessings beyond compare. Or while listening to Musa speak with the Almighty that He was yet to send the most praiseworthy of all. Or watching Nuh spend hundreds of years calling all to worship the One, with few heeding his advice, knowing that it was written on the Arch of Allah that He was preparing the world for the one who would excel in generosity and munificence and whose teachings would spread to every corner of the earth you see rotating as you orbit around it. Or how amazing it must have been to share your space with Sulaiman flying by with a throng of Angels and Jinn shading his vast kingdom. O Majestic Moon, did you ever wonder how anything greater could be promised?
O Majestic Moon, my feeble mind can barely imagine the signs you witnessed during the final year of preparation. Auspicious Divine precursors of the light to come. Abraha with his mighty army reduced to mere stubble by the sheer might of Allah by the obedience of the smallest of birds! Allahu Akbar. While you were the spectator of the dramatic antics of the elephant, the Qudrat of Allah the Almighty, and His plans of perfection, surely more resounding cries of Allahu Akbar filled the heavens. And the same year rains of mercy must have blurred your vision as they drenched land parched and barren for years. Divine signs. Flourishing crops, fattened herds. Harbingers of the illustrious Orphaned Pearl from Paradise gently stirring in the womb of our dearest lady, his mother, Aminah. Verily, The Year of Plenty! Allahu Akbar.
O Majestic Moon, isn’t every second a second of plenty with the knowledge that everything is under the wise decree of the Creator of Causes? The One Who Caused the return of His favoured Abdullah at such a time when he was to rejoice in being the father of Your cherished and most exalted creation. O Majestic Moon, you must have seen why he was favoured? The heart wrenching moment when his father Abdul-Muttalib was prepared to sacrifice him, but Our Rabb accepted one hundred camels instead. What memories this must have stirred when centuries earlier you also peered down watching Ibrahim dutifully obeying the commands of Almighty Allah, by also offering to sacrifice his son. O Majestic Moon, did you shed one tear, enough to fill an ocean, realizing the Almighty’s grand plan for His Beloved not to know his father, so that he would call on Him directly? SubhanAllah!
O majestic Moon, just as you excitedly have always waited for your appointed time, we too, with great expectation will watch for your delicate silver thread embroidered in a sky of silk, your shy face heralding the beginning of the month of celebration. A celebration of the coming of the Embellishment of all that Allah Ta’ala has Embellished.
O Majestic Moon, may we join you along with the entire creation, in a continuous refrain of countless salutations, until there remains not a single drop of salutations upon Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, whose light preceeded all creation.
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. May He accept our humble efforts and grant us the capacity to be good and do good. Ameen.
March 15, 2007
The Prophet’s Masjid, though originally built in the most humble way, was the focal point of establishing all aspects of our Islamic society. It became the magnet for Islam, as well as being a defending fortress. The light of Islam spread from here as Allah Ta’ala had placed His chosen light of lights, Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam to illuminate the world through his teachings conducted within his Masjid. By the grace and mercy of Allah Ta’ala this light will continue to radiate, regardless of what form or shape the externals of the Masjid may take. And nothing can ever take away the heart’s ecstasy upon contemplating Jibreel Alaihis Sallam descending with new revelations to our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, or the voice of our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam repeating these Sanctified Words of Allah Ta’ala, teaching them over and over to his faithful Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum, and they in turn conveying them to others. The whole of Madinah vibrated with the buzz of recitation. The beauty and sweetness, the nobility of the message, the power and vividness of its imagery, had a masterful sway over the hearts and minds of all. Such was the environment where the final message to mankind was completed and perfected, SubhanAllah!
The foremost task to shine from within the mud walls was the spiritual component, congregational Salat, the cohesive core of the Ummah unity, our individual response to the command of Allah Ta’ala, showing our obedience to Him, glorifying His Divinity and seeking His guidance. The establishment of prayer offered the way to purify the heart while strengthening the link between the slave and his Lord. The multi-purpose function of the Masjid was laid down; it became a sanctuary, for the traveler, the distressed, and the needy. It was a place of gathering, not only for local residents, but for foreign tribes and dispatching and receiving various foreign delegates. It was a university, conducting teaching and learning in all aspects of the Qur’an and Islamic sciences. It was a military command centre. The resounding call for Jihad echoed from this meek structure. During times of battle it even served as a hospital. And thus all aspects of a society emanated from Al-Masjid An-Nabawi as-Shairf, Alhumdulillah.
Sixty four date-palm trunks supported this original Mubarak Masjid, now there are 2725 marble columns, each 64 cm in diameter.
A low roof of thatched dried palm leaves was all that was between the worshippers and the searing sun, or the infrequent rains. Now there are 27 moving domes 14.70 meters in diameter and weighing 80 tons each, laminated with a ceramic outside surface, while the inside surface is carved Maple and Moroccan cedar inlaid with gold leaf and turquoise. Electronically controlled to open and shut according to the temperature and climatic conditions. Silently taking one minute to mechanically open and shut, or 30 minutes manually. 12 hydraulically operated umbrellas provide shade in the two internal open courtyards. Ornate ceilings richly carved and decorated and encrusted in all manner of glittering surfaces, giving the illusion of rising heavenward.
The natural mud floor instilled humility, the forehead cushioned on the hallowed dust of this most sanctified place on earth. Once when it rained the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam’s Mubarak face, and all others attending the Salat RadhiAllahu anhum, were smeared with mud from prostrating. Many of the Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum then began bringing in dry rubble and sand to spread over the earth. Upon seeing this Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: “What a good carpet you have brought in!”
Polished Italian marble, at times one lifting the hem of your clothing like Bilqees due to it shimmering like the still reflective surface of water and thick plush decorative carpets are now under bare soles.
The highest house near the Masjid belonged to a woman of the Najjar clan. Just before dawn Bilal RadhiAllahu anhu would come there to sit on the roof waiting for the first faint light in the east. It is said that his call to prayer could be heard all over Madinah at the time.
Now a sound system of 206 amplifiers, each 600 watt, with 3500 speakers reverberate the Adhan across the city.
Three doors were all that were in the original Masjid. Now there are 85 decorative main entrance doors, each 3x6 meters, with countless smaller ones.
Straw fires lit in the open courtyard for evening prayers at the time of Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Later oil lamps were attached to the date- palm trunks for the evening and dawn prayers. This was a welcomed innovation from Ash-Sham by Tamim ad-Dari RadhiAllahu anhu, who was more rewarded by the comment by the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam saying to him: “You have illuminated our Masjid. May Allah Ta’ala illuminate your life.”
Now there are 11 electrical sub stations in the basement to power 67,000 brass lighting fixtures, 68 gold plated chandeliers each 6.8 meters in diameter and 110 entrance chandeliers .
The natural breeze was all that gave respite to the inhabitants at the time, now a huge air conditioning station located 7 km from the Masjid, connected by tunnels and kilometers of pipes ensures year round pleasant temperatures. The current work plans are to cover the entire outside courtyard with the heat resistant umbrellas.
After a time a date-palm trunk was set up for Bilal RadhiAllahu anhu to call Adhan from, now there are six main soaring minarets at 104 meters, the lower portion granite, the upper section coloured artificial stone, with a crescent made of gold plated bronze, this section weighing 4.5 tons at a height of 7 meters. There are four older minarets from previous expansions.
Other features include; CCTV monitoring and control system with 543 cameras! A Fire detection system, escalators, chilling facilities for Zamzam, two levels of underground car parking accommodating 4500 cars, with the new extensions adding hundreds more.
The current praying capacity, including the external courtyard, [but not the streets which are overflowing during the peak seasons], and roof area is approximately 800,000.
Let us for a moment imagine we are back in time listening to the very words of the first Khutbah delivered by our Noble Nabi SallAllahu alaihi wasallam in his magnificent Masjid.
After praising Allah Ta’ala he said: “To proceed: O people, send forth [good deeds] for yourselves. You know, by Allah, that each one of you will be struck [by death]. Then he [that is each one of you] will leave behind his sheep, which will be left without a shepherd. Then, without a translator, and without a veil separating [Allah] from him, his Lord will say to him, ‘Did not My Messenger come to you and convey to you [My message]? I gave you wealth and I bestowed favours upon you; then what did you send forth [that is in terms of deeds] for yourselves?’ He will then look to his right and then to his left, and he will not see anything. Then he will look before him and all that he will see is the Hellfire. So whosoever is able to protect his face from the Hellfire even with part of a date [that is by giving it in charity], then let him do so. And whosoever does not find [even part of a date to give in charity], then let him do so with a good word, for the reward of a good deed is multiplied ten times, and up to seven hundred times. And may peace, the mercy of Allah, and His blessings be upon you.”
May our hearts forever be moved by all that went before, reliving through all means available to us the essence of our glorious Deen as shown to us by our most cherished of creation SallAllahu alaihi wasallam and his esteemed Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum in the most blessed of cities, this Forever Radiant Madinah, the Humble. Ameen.
JUMA’AH MUBARAK!
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.
March 14, 2007
The Mihrabs
The Prophet SallAllahu alahi wasallam prayed for about sixteen months facing towards Al-Quds when he first arrived in Madinah, and then Allah Ta’ala revealed:
Turn your face towards Masjid al-Haram. (2:149)
Rasulullah SallAllahu alahi wasallam then began praying for some time (narrations vary as to how long, some say a few days, others a few months, and Allah Ta’ala knows best) at the place known as Ayesha’s Pillar. (green dot on plan below, blue arrow indicates direction of Qiblah) He SallAllahu alahi wasallam then started leading Salat at the place where the current Mihrab is. During the time of the Prophet SallAllahu alahi wasallam and his four Rightly Guided Caliphs RadhiAllahu anhum there was no mihrab. This mihrab is the most accurately placed on earth, as the Prophet SallAllahu alahi wasallam assisted by Jibreel Alaihis Sallam directed its placement together, SubhanAllah! By standing in the mihrab for offering Salat, the place of Sajda will be where the Noble Nabi SallAllahu alahi wasallam’s feet would have been, as his place of Sajda has intentionally been covered by the thick wall of this Mihrab.
To the back of the mihrab is the Perfumed Pillar, (blue dot) where Rasulullah SallAllahu alahi wasallam used to offer his voluntary Salat. It is called the Perfumed Pillar because one day Rasulullah SallAllahu alahi wasallam saw that someone had spat on the palm trunk which was there at the time, and he was upset, whereupon one of the Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhu quickly rose and perfumed it, at which Rasulullah SallAllahu alahi wasallam was pleased.
In 91 AH Umar Abdul Aziz made a hollow prayer niche at this position.
Sultan Qaitbuy in 888AH rebuilt the mihrab in the present form, while King Fahd in 1404 AH renovated it.
Uthmani Mihrab, to the south of the place where the Prophet led Salat, is where the Imams now lead Salat. Caliph Uthman RadhiAllahu anhu constructed this mihrab when he extended the Masjid.
On the right side of this mihrab is an inscription reading: “The Prophet, may Allah’s blessings and peace be upon him, said, ‘If it would please you that your prayers be accepted, let the scholars among you lead you in prayer [under this portion of the inscription another line reads: let the best among you lead you in prayer] for they are your mediators, between you and your Lord, August and Majestic is He.”
Another inscription under this reads: “O Allah, let your blessings and peace be upon Your noblest creation, Muhammad, and upon his family and all his Companions.”
On the left side the inscription reads: “The Messenger of Allah, may Allah’s blessings and peace be upon him, said, ‘Straighten your ranks, for your ranks correspond to those of the Angels. Align your elbows and leave no interval between you. Be soft to your brother’s hands; leave no spaces for the devil. He who completes a rank, Allah, Exhalted and Blessed is He, will reward him accordingly, and he who breaks a rank, Allah will sever him.”
Umar Abdul Aziz constructed a mihrab at this place in 91 AH.
To the west of where the Prophet SallAllahu alahi wasallam used to pray is the Sulaimani mihrab, which did not exist at the time of the Prophet SallAllahu alahi wasallam or his Companions RadhiAllahu anhum. It was built at the time of by the ottoman Sultan Sulaiman for the Hanafi Imam to lead Salat for the Hanafis, leaving the main mihrab for the Imam of the Shafi congregation. As in Makkah at the time, the different Madhhabs would offer their respective Iqama according to their individual school of thought. Since the Saudi rule all are united behind one Hambali Imam, and thus this mihrab is no longer used. King Fahd ordered it to be decorated with colourful stones and a gold gilt.
Insha’Allah more on the Tahajjud Mihrab later.
The current Imams of Al-Masjid al-Nabawi with links to their recitations.
Sheikh Ali Abdur-Rahmaan Al Hudhaifi
http://is.aswatalislam.net/DisplayFilesP.aspx?TitleID=43&TitleName=Quran_-_Ali_AbdurRehman_Huthayfe
http://quran.mangga.com/quran_mp3_hudhaifi.html
http://quran.al-islam.com/Display/recitation.asp?nType=1&l=eng&nSora=1&nAya=1&sel=1
This is the translation of Sheikh Hudhaifi’s Khutbah that resulted in his arrest in 1998, an interesting read. He has subsequently been under “house arrest” on other occasions since then as well.
http://www.robert-fisk.com/sheikh_hudhaifi_khutbah_mar13_1998.htm
Sheikh Abdul Bari Al-Thubaiti
http://is.aswatalislam.net/DisplayFilesP.aspx?TitleID=13&TitleName=Quran_-_Abdul_Bary_Al-Thobaity
http://www.islamcan.com/cgi-bin/increaseiman/htmlfiles/static/104281147051740.shtml
http://www.islamweb.net/ver2/engblue/eqerraa_qaree.php?action=details&vqaree=35&vqerraa=1
Sheikh Husayn al Shaykh
http://is.aswatalislam.net/DisplayFilesP.aspx?TitleID=54&TitleName=Quran_-_Hosain_Al-Alshaikh
http://www.islamweb.net/ver2/engblue/eqerraa_qaree.php?action=details&vqaree=163&vqerraa=1
Shaikh Dr. Salah Al Budair (has led taraweeh prayers at Masjid al-Haram since 2005)
http://is.aswatalislam.net/DisplayFilesP.aspx?TitleID=106&TitleName=Quran_-_Salah_Al-Budair
http://www.islamweb.net/ver2/engblue/eqerraa_qaree.php?action=details&vqaree=71&vqerraa=1
Sheikh Abdul Muhsin al Qasim (for taraweeh prayers)
http://is.aswatalislam.net/DisplayFilesP.aspx?TitleID=23&TitleName=Quran_-_Abdul_Mohsen_Alqasem
http://www.islamweb.net/ver2/engblue/eqerraa_qaree.php?action=details&vqaree=29&vqerraa=1
Sheikh Maahir Hamad Al-Mu’ayqili (for taraweeh prayers)
http://is.aswatalislam.net/DisplayFilesP.aspx?TitleID=220&TitleName=Quran_-_Mahir_Hamad_Al-M’eiqili
http://www.islamweb.net/ver2/engblue/eqerraa_qaree.php?action=details&vqaree=161&vqerraa=1
Sheikh Abdullaah `Awwaad Al-Juhanee (for taraweeh prayers, but from 2005 has led taraweeh prayers at Masjid al-Haram)
http://is.aswatalislam.net/DisplayFilesP.aspx?TitleID=194&TitleName=Quran_-_Abdullah_Awad_Al-Juhani
http://www.islamweb.net/ver2/engblue/eqerraa_qaree.php?action=details&vqaree=68&vqerraa=1
Compilation of four reciters fro Masjid Nabawi
http://www.islamweb.net/ver2/engblue/eqerraa_qaree.php?action=details&vqaree=23&vqerraa=1
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
The following was in today’s paper….reminded me of Surah Al-Asr, where Allah Ta’ala swears by TIME. Ma’ariful Qur’an tafseer (the end of volume eight) reveals the state of loss man is in if we do not heed the rest of the message of this Surah. This clock tower seems to defy this very message. May Allah Ta’ala save us all. Ameen.
http://www.arabnews.com/?page=1§ion=0&article=93603&d=14&m=3&y=2007&pix=kingdom.jpg&category=Kingdom
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.
March 12, 2007
MUHABBAH MUHABBAH MUHABBAH MUHABBAH MUHABBAH
And those who believe are intense in their love for Allah
(2:165)
At this time when so many feel that the world is awry, we need to reflect upon the nature of love and the definition it may have in our hearts and minds. While so many issues around us appear chaotic, attempting to lead us to despair, Allah Ta’ala’s Muhabbah is a constant. Insha’Allah we allow ourselves to ride above the confusions and series of crises trying to giddy, not only the individual, but the Ummah as a whole, and renew and strengthen our connections with the essence of Muhabbah, the pure, unconditional love. May we be intense in our love for Allah Ta’ala, His Esteemed Master of Truth and Trustworthiness SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, and all the Saliheen, Ameen.
Some "ponderables" to keep you pondering for quite some time follow!
The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said:
“O Allah, I ask of You, Your muhabbah of those who love You.”
“Love Allah for His blessings by which He nurtures you, and love me for Allah’s love of me, and love my kindred for my love.”
Anas RadhiAllahu anhu said that a man came to the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam ans asked: “When will the Last Hour come, Messenger of Allah?” He said: “What have you prepared for it?” He said: “I have not prepared a lot of prayer or fasting or charity for it, but I love Allah and His Messenger.” The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: “You will be with the one you love.”
He who loves to meet Allah, Allah loves to meet him….
“Allah Ta’ala created mankind from His sheer power and mercy, and for this man is forever indebted. Man is the sum of the parts that Allah Ta’ala has given him: work of the eye is to see: the work of the ear is to hear; the work of the mind is to think, and the work of the heart is to love”…..read on here….. Articles of the month: Love and its Fruits.
Hadhrat Sheikh Abu Bakr Kitaani (rahmatullah alayh) narrates:
“I was once in Makkah Muazzamah in the company of a group of Sufiyaa Kiraam who were discussing the question of Allah’s Love. The youngest of the group was Hadhrat Junaid Baghdaadi (rahmatullah alayh). The Sufi’s urged him to speak on this question.
Hadhrat Junaid (rahmatullah alayh) lowered his head and shed tears profusely. Then he said: “A lover is such a servant whose ego has been eliminated. He is absorbed in the thikr of Allah. He fulfills the rights of Allah. He looks with his heart towards Allah. The rays of Divine Fear have consumed his heart. The cup of Wine of Divine Love is for him. From behind the unseen veils Allah has become manifest to him. When he speaks, he speaks with Allah. When he moves, he does so with Allah’s command. When he rests, he rests with Allah. He is constantly with Allah he exists with Allah and he is in Allah’s companionship.”
All the Mashaa-ikh shed tears in abundance and said: Can anyone say anything more superb? O Taajul Aarifin (crown of the Auliyaa)! May Allah increase your intelligence and wisdom.”
And (the Messenger) said: "For those persons who have friendship for each other for the sake of God Most High a red ruby column is set up on top of which are 70,000 pavilions. From there they will look down upon the inhabitants of heaven, and the light of their countenances will fall upon the inhabitants of heaven, like the light of the sun in this world. The people of heaven will say, ‘Come, let us go look at them.’ They will see them clothed in green brocade. On their foreheads will be written Those who love each other in God: They are the friends of God most high." (Al-Ghazzali)
Human perfection resides in this: that the love of God should conquer a man’s heart and possess it wholly, and even if it does not possess it wholly it should predominate in the heart over the love of all other things.
Once while sleeping at night he heard footsteps on the roof of the palace. When he asked; ‘Who is there?’, a voice replied: ‘I am searching for my camel.’
King: ‘Who can be more ignorant than you, searching for a camel on the palace roof?’
Voice: The person who searches for Allah while sitting on a royal throne is more ignorant.
The arrow of Divine Love pierced Ibrahim Adham’s heart. All of a sudden he renounced the throne and set out into the wilderness. He took up residence in a mountain. On Thursdays, he would descend from the mountain, gather firewood and sell it. Whatever he acquired from the sale of the wood, half would he spent in the path of Allah. The other half was used to buy food for the following 7 days. After spending a considerable time in the wilderness, he was divinely instructed to go to Makkah Mukarramah where he entered into the spiritual companionship of Hadhrat Fudhail (rahmatullah alayh). As a result, Hadhrat Ibrahim Bin Adham gained spiritual distinction and great spiritual heights.
Hadhrat Shibli (rah) said: Muhabbah is called Muhabbah because it erases everything from the heart except the Beloved.The renowned master [ustadh] Abul Qasim Qushayri (rah) said: Muhabbah is the erasure of the qualities [sifat] of the lover, affirming the essential being [dhat] of the Beloved.
Shaykh Hayat ibn Qais al-Harrani Rahmatullah alaihi (from) said:
Love keeps the heart in a state of suspense, between reverential awe and intimate friendship.
Love attaches the lover to the beloved and to the meeting that is sought.
The lover wins the contest with clear reason, and he considers death delightful, so he never jostles with the crowd, and at no time pushes to the fore.
The glory of lovers depends upon their loved ones.
When the fire of love appears, it kills opponents, brings years to life, keeps secrets intact, makes evil extinct, and produces many effects.
“I love You two loves, love that raptures the heart,
And love because that is Your due.
That which raptures the heart,
Invokes Your name sans cesse….
The love which is Your due,
May lift up the veil that I may gaze at You.”
Rabi’a Al-Adawiyyah
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.
March 10, 2007
JEWELS of ISLAM
Taqwa Ikram Sabr Respect
Truth Love Honesty Trust
Sharing Modesty Humility
Tolerance Peace Justice
Iman Da’wah Contentment
Caring Simplicity Courage
Responsibility Co-operation
Appreciation Unity
Thoughtfulness Happiness
Modesty Honesty Family Kindness
Cooperation Justice Politeness
Mercy Knowledge Prayer Joy
Gratitude Friendship Wisdom
Generosity Forgiveness Submission
Repentance Tranquility Serenity
Hope
KHIDMAH, SERVICE
IKHLAS, SINCERITY
What jewels do you have in your heart, and which ones do you let shine to others through your deeds?
Insha’Allah you can make your own jewel box, reflecting the gems of characteristics our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam was sent to teach us through his perfected manners.
JazakiLlahu khairan to Fatimah bint Hamza for sharing her decorative jewel box.
March 9, 2007
The Messenger of Allah Ta’ala said: "Madinah is the dome of Islam, the seat of faith, the land of emigration and the place of [the distinction between] the lawful and the unlawful."
This little "farm" is minutes from Haram, the last remaining cultivated piece of land so close. The photo below was taken opposite these quirky scarecrows, Haram being just behind the building.
The minarets of Haram with Jabal Uhud in the background.
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.
March 7, 2007
Enter it in peace and safety, says the inscriptions in Arabic above all the entrances.
Insha’allah, this is the first of a series I intend to post focusing on the distinctive features of Al-Masjid An-Nabawi As-Sharif.
Pink: The original Masjid constructed by the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam 1 Hijrah. Aishah RadhiAllahu anha said: "Allah’s Messenger SallAllahu alaihi wassalam mounted his camel, which knelt down at the site of his Masjid. It belonged to two orphan boys, in the care of As’ad bin Zurarah; and when his mount knelt Allah’s Messenger SallAllahu alaihi wassalam said: ‘This, Allah willing, is the place where it has stopped.’ The he called for the two orphan boys and negotiated with them over the price of the land, in order to use it for the Masjid, but they said: ‘No, we will donate it to you, O Messenger of Allah!’ The he had the Masjid built on it and he began to move the bricks with them for the building of it, and he said:
‘This work is not the work of Khaybar,
This is more precious, O our Lord, and purer.’
And he said:
O Allah ! The reward is the reward of the Hereafter, so show mercy to the Ansar and the Muhajirun.’" (Bukhari)
And Nafi’ RadhiAllahu anhu said that Abdullah bin Umar RadhiAllahu anhu told him that in the time of Rasulullag SallAllahu alaihi wassalam, the Masjid was built from date-palm branches and its pillars were the trunks of the date-palm trees.
The Masjid measured 35x30m. From how we see the Masjid today, the original one included the Rowdha, plus two rows of pillars on the western side and two rows on the northern side. Insha’Allah I intend to cover these in greater detail later.
Dark Orange: The first expansion took place after the Battle of Khaybar due to the increase in the number of Muslims, Alhumdulillah. The foundations were made of stone and its walls from adobe bricks and the pillars from the trunks of the date-palm trees and the height of the roof was seven cubits. It was Uthman bin’Affan RadhiAllahu anhu who purchased the land for this extension. This extension became a sunnah for future efforts to expand the Masjid. Umar RadhiAllahu anhu was to have said during his Caliphate that had he not heard the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam say that he would increase the size of the Masjid, then he never would have done so.
There was no expansion as such during the Caliphate of Abu Bakr As-Siddiq RadhiAllahu anhu, but he supervised the replacement of the pillars made form date-palm trunks from the time of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam due to their decaying.
Yellow: The expansion during the Caliphate of Umar bin Al-Khattab RadhiAllahu anhu, 17 AH. It was built in the same style as done by The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam, except that the stone foundations were built to the height of an average man, and the date-palm trunks were replaced with wood, adobe bricks and date-palm branches were still used.
Umar RadhiAllahu anhu made a public square outside the Masjid, known as Al-Butaiha’. He said about it: "Whoever wishes to make a noise, or raise his voice, or recite poetry, let him go out to it." This area was incorporated into the main Masjid during subsequent expansions.
A detail of the above. Each dot represents a column, so I have not stated that x number were added at each of the stages of expansion. Insha’Allah details regarding some of the pillars to be posted later.
Orange: During the time of Uthman bin’Affan RadhiAllahu anhu, 29 AH. Apart from the increase in size, the changes made during this expansion included use of carved stone and plaster for the walls and a roof of Saj, a soft wood from India which has a pleasant sweet smell. The current Mihrab is located where Uthman bin’Affan RadhiAllahu anhu used to lead the prayer from.
The eastern side was untouched as this was where the houses of Ummuhatul Mu’mineen were.
Blue: During the time of the Umayyad caliph, Al-Walid bin ‘Abdul-Malik, (88-91 AH), who sent the order to the then Governor of Madinah, Umar ibn ‘Abdal-Aziz to enlarge the Masjid and to incorporate into the extension the houses of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam’s widows RadhiAllahu anhunna, who had all passed on by then. A wall was built around the house of Lady Aishah RadhiAllahu anhu, containing the three tombs. Four minarets were added to the Masjid, one at each corner. The walls were built of carved stone and the pillars were hollowed-out stone, filled with iron and lead for supports. Two ceilings were made, an upper and a lower, the lower one being of Saj wood. The internal walls were decorated with geometric designs of marble and gold and mosaic. The gilding of the ceilings and tops of the columns and the lintels of the doors was completed, and twenty doors were opened.
Purple: During the time of Al-Mahdi, the Abbasid, 160-165 AH. The doors were increased to twenty four with the northern side expanded taking in the houses of Abdur-Rahman bin ‘Auf, which was known as Darul Mulaikah, the house of Shurahbil bin Hasanah and the remains of the house of Abdullah bin Mas’ud RadhiAllahu anhuma, which was known as Darul-Qurra.
Brown: During the time of Qaitbay 886-888 AH. When the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam’s Masjid was burnt on the night of the 13th of Ramadhan 886 AH, Sultan Qaitbay undertook the task of a complete restoration of the Masjid. He widened the eastern side, and made a single ceiling at the height of twenty-two cubits, and he rebuilt the Chamber as it is now. The current Mihrab dates from then and the first Mukabbariyyah was erected at that time. These extensions remained for three hundred and seventy years!
Salmon: During the time of Sultan ‘Abdul-Majeed 1260-1277 AH. (More details of this time here) The Ottomans quarried a red rock, resembling carnelian from mountains around Madinah to use for this phase of the extensions. The floor was covered in marble and the pillars burnished to resemble the colour of the stone. The domes were engraved with designs and patterns and the pillars in the Rowdha were clad with white and red marble to distinguish them from the others.
Light Blue: The first Saudi extension, during the time of King ‘Abdul-’Aziz. 1370-1373 AH. This extension was distinguished by the fact that it was built in the form of a concrete edifice. Three of the five existing minarets were demolished, with two new ones erected at the eastern and western corners, the height of each being 72 meters. The number of pilgrims increased dramatically, so King Faisal in 1392 AH was responsible for the erection of large shaded enclosures made with metal roofing on the western side, but this did not affect the actual structure of the Masjid.
Green: The second Saudi extension, during the time of King Fahd bin ‘Abdul-’Aziz 1405-1414 AH. By far the largest extension increasing the surface area on all four sides, making the capacity to accommodate 650,000 worshippers. The number of minarets was increased to ten and the doors to 86, with the roof available for more pilgims during the high seasons, and the basement used as a two leveled car park.
And the THIRD Saudi extension….in progress, Insha’Allah! A huge increase hugging Jannatul Baqi! Masha’Allah.
To be continued, Insha’Allah.
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.
March 6, 2007
SUNSET
Verily, We made the mountains to glorify Our Praises with him (Dawood) in the Ashi (i.e. after the mid-day till sunset) and Ishraq (i.e. after the sunrise till mid-day). (Sad 38:18)
And the lofty mountains would respond to Dawud alaihis Sallam and echo his glorification of Allah, along with the birds. SubhanAllah!
Maulana Mufti Muhammad Shafi in Ma’ariful Qur’an comments on this verse, posing the question: "how did this become a blessing for Sayyidna Dawud, alaihis Sallam, and what particular benefit accrued from the Tasbih of mountains and birds? One answer is that it unravels a miracle at the hands of Sayyidna Dawud aliahis Sallam, and it goes without saying that it is a great reward and blessing. In addition to that Maulana Thanawi has given a subtle explanation about it. (Masa’ilu-s-Suluk) He says that the Tasbih, performed by mountains and birds had created in him a special taste for the remembrance of Allah Ta’ala, something that generates initiative, courage and verve in acts of worship. Collective Dhikr has another benefit that the Barakah that issues forth from it reflects on each other from the participants. There is a particular method of Dhikr and spiritual engagement (shughl) recognized among noble Sufis in which the participant imagines the whole universe is making Dhikr. This method has an unusual efficacy of its own in correcting and purifying one’s inner state as well as in his enthusiasm for Ibadah. The basis of this method of Dhikr is also deduced from this verse."
How sublime….resonating with the mountains, and all that they contain, during this charismatic time of sunset! The rocks, minerals, dust, gems, elements, flora and fauna, all singing the praises of our Lord in unison! This intimacy with these lofty sentinels, the pegs of the earth, is felt deeply as one takes in the vista south of this Radiant City, the awe transferred from the eyes to the heart, filling it with the tranquility of His Words mirrowing back our humble words of Dhikr.
Sunset, a time when conditions visibly change, the beginning of night, and hence darkness. The harbinger of the constancy of change, in the natural world, and in the human condition. From lightness to darkness, and if it is the Will of Allah Ta’ala, then the darkness will be dispelled with the dawn. Symbolic of the waves and patterns of tests, conditions and situations we are all an integral part of. Darkness to light, light to darkness. Struggles and hurdles, ease and comfort, unexpected phases, dancing in a state of flux.
Allah Ta’ala swore by many phenomena in His Book, the sunset being one.
So I swear by the afterglow of sunset. (Al-Inshiqaq 84:16)
So I swear by the Lord of all (the three hundred and sixty points) of sunrise and sunset that surely We are Able. (Al-Maarij 70:40)
While other verses draw out attention to the importance placed at this time:
So be patient (O Muhammad). Verily, the Promise of Allah is true, and seek forgiveness for your sins, and glorify the praises of your Lord in the Ashi and in the Ibkar. (Ghafir 40:55)
(He is) the Lord of the two Easts (places of sunrise during early summer and early winter) and the Lord of the two Wests (places of sunset during early summer and early winter). (Al-Rahman 55:17)
Numerous Ahadith reveal various aspects related to sunset.
Narrated Abu Dharr RadhiAllahu anhu: The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam asked me at sunset, "Do you know where the sun goes (at the time of sunset)?" I replied, "Allah and His Apostle know better." He said, "It goes (i.e. travels) till it prostrates itself underneath the Throne and takes the permission to rise again, and it is permitted and then (a time will come when) it will be about to prostrate itself but its prostration will not be accepted, and it will ask permission to go on its course but it will not be permitted, but it will be ordered to return whence it has come and so it will rise in the west. And that is the interpretation of the Statement of Allah:
And the sun runs its fixed course for a term decreed. That is The Decree of (Allah) The Exalted in Might, The All-Knowing. (36.38)
Narrated Qais RadhiAllahu anhu: Jarir RadhiAllahu anhu said, "We were with the Prophet and he looked at the moon–full-moon–and said, ‘Certainly you will see your Lord as you see this moon and you will have no trouble in seeing Him. So if you can avoid missing a prayer before the sun-rise and a prayer before sunset, you must do so.’ He then recited Allah’s Statement:
And celebrate the praises of your Lord before The rising of the sun and before (its) setting. (50.39)
Narrated Umm Salamah, Ummul Mu’minin RadhiAllahu anha: The Apostle of Allah SallAllahu alaihi wassalam taught me to say when the adhan for the sunset prayer was called; "O Allah, this is the time when Thy night comes on, Thy day retires, and the voices of Thy summoners are heard, so forgive me."
Narrated Ibn Umar RadhiAllahu anhu: Allah’s Apostle SallAllahu alaihi wassalam said, "When the upper edge of the sun appears in the morning, don’t perform a prayer till the sun appears in full, and when the lower edge of the sun sets, don’t perform a prayer till it sets completely. And you should not seek to pray at sunrise or sunset for the sun rises between two sides of the head of the Shaytan."
Narrated Salim bin ‘Abdullah RadhiAllahu anhu: My father RadhiAllahu anhu said, "I heard Allah’s Apostle saying, ‘The period of your stay as compared to the previous nations is like the period equal to the time between the ‘Asr prayer and sunset. The people of the Torah were given the Torah and they acted (upon it) till mid-day then they were exhausted and were given one Qirat (of gold) each. And then the people of the Gospel were given the Gospel and they acted (upon it) till the ‘Asr prayer then they were exhausted and were given one Qirat each. And then we were given the Qur’an and we acted (upon it) till sunset and we were given two Qirats each. On that the people of both the scriptures said, ‘O our Lord! You have given them two Qirats and given us one Qirat, though we have worked more than they.’ Allah said, ‘Have I usurped some of your right?’ They said, ‘No.’ Allah said: "That is my blessing I bestow upon whomsoever I wish."
Narrated Abi Aiyub RadhiAllahu anhu: Once the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wassalam went out after sunset and heard a dreadful voice, and said, "The Jews are being punished in their graves."
Narrated Muslim at-Tamimi RadhiAllahu anhu: The Apostle of Allah SallAllahu alaihi wassalam told him secretly: When you finish the sunset prayer, say: ‘O Allah, protect me from Hell" seven times; for if you say that and die that night, protection from it would be recorded for you; and when you finish the dawn prayer, say it in a similar way, for if you die that day, protection from it would be recorded for you. Abu Sa’id RadhiAllahu anhu told me that al-Harith RadhiAllahu anhu said: The Apostle of Allah SallAllahu alaihi wassalam said this to us secretly, so we confine it to our brethren.
O Allah, O You of Whom it is true,
that there is no sunset in the skies,
and no mountains rising high,
and no trees bending in the breeze,
and no movement in the clouds,
and no appearance of the stars,
and no emotions in people’s hearts,
and no actions from their limbs,
and no sounds from their lips,
and no gazing from their eyes,
unless all is bearing witness to You.
may the Shahadah shine
from every setting and rising sun
and every heart You made from clay.
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.
[AHHHH…the joys of this blog….I have just given up the struggle of why it has stubbornly decided to go all BOLD on me, Allah Ta’ala testing my written words about the constancy of change, I surrender, like the light at sunset to the darkness of the "unknown" PHENOMENA indeed!]
March 4, 2007
O Majestic Moon, so esteemed by the Creator to have your name highlighted so many times in the Preserved Tablet, to be repeated by Gibril and the Most Favoured, and written over and over in The Book of Books embroidering the globe, to constantly be on the tongues and in the hearts of millions of believers.
O Majestic Moon, I witnessed you playfully engrossed in a hide and seek as Commanded, in the shadows of the floating orbs of sun and earth, demurely preparing your glowing coppery niqab for another enactment of His Signs and reminders to those who ponder.
O Majestic Moon, your Haya in this guise kept you from your more intimate embrace of the Dome of Felicity. On this night your songs of praise and adoration exulted from a distance as you peered from high in the heavens accompanied by the lyrical harmonics of all celestial beings. A galactic crescendo Decreed to perform this harmony of the spheres only on rare occasions, imparting mystical mysteries, dispersed with staccato interludes of warning and retribution from Ahad, Ahad.
O Majestic Moon, how you must shiver as the cymbals crash their message to fear Him and how you must sway in soothing motion lulled by the repetitive themes extolling Taqwa.
O Majestic Moon, my desire was to capture your beguiling beauty to cherish forever, to exhibit your exquisite aura exuded by this unique event. But your gentle whispers spoke of impermanence, of mortality, of turning my gaze from you, entering the Arc of Ascent, seeking the intrinsically Divine.
O Majestic Moon, then the skies vibrated with the call As-Salatu Jaamiah, As-Salatu Jaamiah, as footsteps hurried across marbled shine to the hallowed confines of the Haram. You watched as necks no longer craned seeking your image, but now bent in humility and submission to His Words as found in As-Saffat. This small selected group of slaves emerging from the nights embrace, arranged in rows, unified in the safety of His prayer, following the way of His Habib, SallAllahu alaihi wassalam, seeking His refuge as you, O Majestic Moon, were bathed in a deep amber gown. I so much wanted to stare at your transformation, to be transfixed as you were suspended far beyond the opened dome of Masjid Nabawi, but my concentration was snatched and imprisoned by Him as At-Tur resonated from pillar to pillar of this almost empty Sanctuary. Heralding the bliss that will be enjoyed by the believers, contrasted with the torments of the Fire. Allah Almighty swearing by the Mountain that our judgement is inevitable Ya Lateef.
O Majestic Moon, your view from so high above must have seen bodies bent in Ruku for an eternity, I dared not look to you, my soul and being devoted to the One Who demanded all of me, head now sunk to where the veils are lifted, SubhanAllah!
O Majestic Moon, as your cameo role was enacted out, your significance became peripheral, my heart shivered with the Words of Al Haqqa where our Rabb swears by what we can see and what we cannot see, with His reminders continuing in Al-Mar’arij. How could I contemplate lifting my gaze to watch your moves, as Allah Ta’ala is mentioning who will be honoured in Gardens of bliss?
O Majestic Moon, maybe you did not see me treading gently in an ethereal darkness, while your attention was arrested as you obediently shed your luminosity. Maybe none other than Allah Ta’ala and His Most Beloved Messenger, SallAllahu alaihi wassalam saw me shyly pass the darkened Abode, where transparent tears fell as if in a cup, the container and the contained becoming one.
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.
