ALMISKEENAH

THE QUR’AN MAJEED AS DA’EE 

The old wrinkled village grandmother fumbled an old yellowed and wrinkled copy of Surah Ya Sin. Layers of soot and the residue of years of cooking by a wood fire decorated her and her meager surroundings. Gnarled fingers once more rhythmically moved from right to left, line by line across letters so worn they were barely distinguishable. This ritual was followed at dawn and sunset. When she had finished it was kissed and placed on the worn piece of fabric covering her head, as her toothless grin smiled, “Insha’Allah, the words and meaning will seep into my brain.” She then solemnly and meticulously wrapped it and wedging it into a space between the bamboo frame of her hut and the dried grass roof, a meter away were the family chickens roosting in dried woven bamboo baskets! Some days later I was a Muslimah! SubahAllah!

*

“How superb! The pages are strewn with diamonds!” Exclaimed a non-Muslim friend many years ago when she first saw an open page of my Mushaf. She was referring to all the dots signifying the letters. Sometime later she embraced Islam, SubhanAllah!

*

Her shiny black leathery hands stood the wooden stand in front of her on the plush red Masjid Nabawi carpet. She collected a Mushaf from the polished brass shelf.  Adjusting her frayed black abaya she sat composed, exhaling a sigh; a faintly audible audhu biLlahi… was murmured as she rested the closed Mushaf on the stand. Then began a series of turning it one way, opening it, examining it, turning it again, dropping her head, scrutinizing the pages, then turning it up the other way…over and over, until she began reading it upside down. Eventually I smiled as I leaned over turning it the correct way.  Indicating she wanted Surah Ikhlas, I placed her finger on it and she immediately began swaying gently with a soft, deliberate repetition. She remained focused with this for at least half an hour. I felt as though I was being fed the sweetest taste directly from heaven, the sincerity of her Iman seemed to ooze from within her being. When she finished we faced each other with the deepest of smiles, and spontaneous tears, as hands interlocked for what seemed a timeless eternity of bliss. SubhanAllah!

*

‘Amr ibn Dinar, who died in 126 A.H. said: I have met the Companions of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, and those that came after him for seventy years, all of them said: “Allah is the Creator, and everything besides Him is created, and the Qur’an is the kalam of Allah, from Him it came, and to Him it will return.” 

Millions of people have authored books about the meaning and exegesis of our Honoured Book. But none are able to encompass the breadth and depth of its meanings.  The more we try to get from the Holy Quran, the more it gives. It gives, and yet all that remains is far beyond our scope of understanding.  Whoever seeks from it, his heart will be filled with the Nur of Iman, Insha’Allah. According to Hadith it will be raised on the Day of Judgement as “bikr” (Arabic for unprecedented, unparalleled, virginal).  The Ulema say that its full meaning and comprehension is unknown until then.

*

Allah Subahanahu Wa Ta’ala says,

Allah invites [everyone] to the House of Peace.  (meaning Jannah). (10:25)

He Subahanahu Wa Ta’ala says,  

While Allah calls you to Jannah, and forgiveness by His leave, He makes His message clear to people. (2:221).

He Subahanahu Wa Ta’ala says,

The Creator of the heavens and earth, He calls you to Him in order to forgive you yours sins and let you enjoy your life until the appointed hour.  (14:10)

Allah Subahanahu Wa Ta’ala commanded the best of the creation SallAllahu alaihi wasallam,

Say: This is my path; I call to Allah with wisdom, myself and whoever follows me.  (12:108).

So the Revealer of the Book, the Creator of the heavens and earth, and the Lord of the Magnificent Throne Subahanahu Wa Ta’ala is a Caller (Da’ee).

And His Subahanahu Wa Ta’ala’s Speech, the revealed, is an invitation (Da’wah). It is informing people:

This is a message to all people.  (14:52).

The one who received, the Prophet, is a caller, a Da’ee.

O Messenger, propagate everything that has been sent down to you from Your Lord. (5:67)

Those who receive the revelation are callers, Du’ah.

Say: This is my way; Based on sure knowledge, I, and all who follow me, call [people] to Allah. (12:108)

So the Quran is the invitation of Allah Subahanahu Wa Ta’ala to His creation.

We made it light, guiding with it whoever We will of Our servants. (42:52), through the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.

Exalted is he who has sent the Furqan, that shows the difference, down to His servant so that he may warn all people.  (25:1)

It is distressing to see that Muslims have turned away from this great treasure that have been revealed to them; the very Speech of Allah. It has been made a sacred family heirloom, decorated in fancy and expensive covers, yet to ne uninhabited by the best covers of all, their hearts. It is recited and listened to in the best and most melodious voices, yet its meaning has been neglected. It is place higher than all other objects in the room, yet occupies the lowest position in daily life. It is read when death greets family or friends, yet ignored by the living. It has been written in the most elaborate and detailed of scripts on the most exquisite of papers, yet its commands and prohibitions are not heeded.

What is the matter with them that they have turned away from the Remembrance? (74:49)

Ibn Mas’ud RadhiAllahu anhu reported that the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: “The Qur’an is an intercessor, and an intercession that is accepted, and a maahil, (one who is persistent in his intercession, and goes to great extremes to save a person) and a credible (book). Whoever puts it ahead of him, it will lead him to Paradise, and whoever throws it behind him, it will drag him into Hell.” (at-Tabarani)

Insha’Allah we heed the call of this Precious Revelation, while in turn, follow the example of our Beloved Al-Mustafa SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, by being callers to its message, in whatever capacity we can. 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. 

 of camels… AND DATES 

Camels and dates, two of the main things one associates with the life of our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam during his time in establishing this first truly Islamic city and society. Camels for transport, trading, breeding and jihad. With dates as the prime sustenance bestowed on the Madanians by Allah Ta’ala. The two inextricably linked; camels would be given the crushed date stones as fodder, and the dates would be transported by the camels.

This article appeared in yesterday’s paper expounding on the prominence of dates in the life of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. I was fascinated by the fact that Our Noble Messenger SallAllahu alaihi wasallam would “examine the old dates lest they might have gone bad, or became infested with worms.” Even after all these hundreds of years, Allah Ta’ala still deems that these worms are part of the date experience and entitled to their Rizq! Such blessed worms having been present since the time of our Beloved Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam! Alhumdulillah. So check your date before eating it. I have learnt from the locals to keep dried dates refrigerated until an hour or so before eating.

“The legs are long, the eyes are big, the bodies curvaceous,” …a beautiful image accompanying this article on a camel beauty pageant!

Not of the Saudi variety, but informative about camels’ milk, and more great pictures of these wonderful animals, “with its hunched back, protruding teeth, facial hair and distinctive body odor, the camel may not seem an ideal model for beauty products.” 

So, from the delicious nourishing date, the tiny date worm and the gaudy gangly camel….

These are the signs in the heavens and the earth for those who believe. (45:3-4)

May we all be of the believers, 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. 

Allah Ta’ala will initiate the Hour on the Day of Juma’ah. The day when our Noble Messenger SallAllahu alaihi wasallam will be raised from under his Abode of Peace, moving to Jannatul Baqi.

Allow the vision to reflect on the image above, and the heart to comprehend the scene on that day. Allah Ta’ala’s Prince of Creation SallAllahu alaihi wasallam is once more destined to walk upon this Mubarak dust.

And look again; imagining As-Sadiq, Abu Bakr and Umar bin Khattab RadhiAllahu anhuma and Isa AlaihisSallam and then Bilal RadhiAllahu following our beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. All given life once again, moving from the Green Dome to meet tens of thousands of their Companions, and all the inhabitants of this small chosen piece of earth, with thousands more appearing from the south, from Makkah, SubhanAllah!

And take another glance. Or maybe that is impossible due to the tears impeding your vision as you try to conceive how this day will be.  

“On the Day of Resurrection, he will rise from the grave first. He will do shafaat first. His shafaat will be accepted first. He will knock on the door of Paradise first. The door will be opened for him at once. In his hand will be a flag called "Liway-i hamd." Adam ‘alaihis-salam’ and all Believers from his time until the end of the world will be under this flag. He declared in a hadith: "On the Day of Resurrection, I am the Sayyid of the former and the latter. I am telling the truth, I am not boasting." He declared in a hadith: "I am the habib, the darling of Allahu ta’ala. I am the Head of Prophets. I am not boasting." He declared in a hadith: "I am the Last Prophet; I am not boasting. I am Muhammad, the son of Abdullah. Allahu ta’ala created human beings. He created me as the best of human beings. Allahu ta’ala separated human beings into groups [nations, races]. He put me in the best. Then He separated this best group into tribes [societies]. He put me in the best. Then He separated this society into homes. He caused me to be born in the best home [family]. I am the best of mankind. I am from the best family. On the [Day of] Resurrection, when everybody will be silent, I will talk. At a time when nobody can move, I will intercede for people. At such a time when everybody will be utterly hopeless, I will give them good news. That day, I will have the key to every kind of goodness, to every kind of help, and to every door. Liway-i hamd will be in my hand. I am the most useful, the most generous, the best of mankind. That day, thousands of servants will be in my service. On the Judgement Day, I will be the leader, the preacher, the intercessor for all prophets. I am not saying this in order to boast. [I am telling the truth. It is my task to tell the truth. If I do not tell you this, I will not have done my duty.]” If it hadn’t been for him, Allahu ta’ala would not have created anything. It would not have been revealed that He, ta’ala, is the One to be worshipped.”

Who will be under his SallAllahu alaihi wasallam banner, his Liway-i-hamd on that Day?

In this current time of testing and disturbance how will our efforts be judged?

Behind which banner will we be assembled on that Day?

When Adam Alaihis Sallam was sent to earth Haqq descended.  When Shaitan was cursed Batil descended.

The rule of Allah Ta’ala is that Haqq beats Batil when confrontation occurs.

But today we see that Batil is dominant even when confrontation occurs. The reason is that the quality of Batil today is undiluted, uncontaminated, whereas Haqq has become contaminated.

In truth, the pure defeats the fraudulent or the deceiver.

However the confrontation is no longer between Haqq and Batil.  It has evolved into a battle between a bigger Batil and a smaller Batil, with the bigger overpowering the smaller.

Batil controls the tongue and heart to say, "We are the doers." The current form of Haqq is distorted by the tongue saying, “Allah does" while the confused heart says, "We are the doers."

Haqq wins when it is pure internally and externally; on the tongue and in the heart.

Who will be under his SallAllahu alaihi wasallam banner, his Liway-i-hamd on that Day?

In this current time of testing and disturbance how will our efforts be judged?

Behind which banner will we be assembled on that Day?

* 

It is narrated by Ali Ibn Al Hussein Ibn Ali Ibn Abi Talib, known as Zainul ‘Abideen, the beautiful crown of worshippers, that:

When it is the Yawm Al Qiyamah, a caller will call, "The people of Fadl, stand up".

So from among the people, a group will rise.

It will be said to them, "Move to Jannah".

So the angels will receive them saying, "To where?”

They say, "To Jannah".                                                     

So the angels will ask, "Before Hisab!"

So they will say, "Yes"

The angels will ask, "Who are you?"

They will say, "We are the people of Fadl"

The angels will ask, "What was your Fadl?"

They say, "It was our habit that when people transgressed against us, we bore it. And if we were oppressed, we were patient, and if an insult was directed to us, we forgave"

They say to them, "Enter Jannah, it is the best reward for the workers"

Then a caller will call, "The people of Sabr, Arise"

So from among the people, a group will rise.

It will be said to them, "Move to Jannah".

So the angels will receive them saying, "To where?"

They say to them the same so they say, "We are the people of Sabr"

So the angels will ask, "What was your Sabr?"

They say, "We brought ourselves to be patient with our obedience to Allah, and we made ourselves patient from committing any disobedience to Allah"

They say to them, "Enter Jannah, it is the best reward for the workers"

Then a caller will call, "The people who are the neighbours of Allah in His House, Arise"

So from among the people, a group will rise. And they are few.

It will be said to them the same.

So the angels will ask, "How did you deserve the neighbourhood of Allah in His House?"

They say, "We used to visit each other for the pleasure of Allah, we used to gather for the pleasure of Allah, and we used to give for the pleasure of Allah"

They say to them "Enter Jannah, it is the best reward for the workers"

Who will be under his SallAllahu alaihi wasallam banner, his Liway-i-hamd on that Day?

In this current time of testing and disturbance how will our efforts be judged?

Behind which banner will we be assembled on that Day?

*

"If one of us had a thousand souls,
above those a thousand bodies,
each of which was cut piece by piece,
it would be a small insignificant, paltry price to pay for seeing that face SallAllahu alaihi wasallam and coming to him at his Hawd…his Pond." (Sh. Habib Umar bin Hafiz)

*

Insha’Allah we make a concerted effort this Yaumul Juma’ah towards ensuring the best of stations on that final Yaumul Juma’ah, Ameen.

Soul-felt appreciation to the blessed readers who have shared some of the content of this post. May Allah Ta’ala forever shower them with the best from His unlimited Treasures, 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. 

Ponder….

The prominence given to the date palm, specifically mentioned several times by Allah Ta’ala in His Book:

Then We cause to grow thereby gardens of palm trees and grapes for you; you have in them many fruits and from them do you eat. (23:19)

And the lofty date palm, with layers of fruit stalks, as sustenance for the servants. (50:10)

In them [both] will be fruits, and date palms and pomegranates. (55:68)

Ponder….

The date palms growing in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, like all things here, are doubly blessed by Allah Ta’ala.

Ponder..

owning your own Al-Madani date palms.

“Al-Madinah Treasures”, is a new investment project where one can buy your own date palms in an area 15 kms from Masjid Nabawi. Unfortunately the finer details do not appear in the article, and inquiries I have made in the past few days have not yet been answered.

Ponder…..

another investment:

Fulfiling your dreams…Live near the Two Holy Mosques.

Luxurious accommodation and blessed investment. Living close to Makkah and Madinah is an everlasting dream Muslims around the world aspire to fulfill. Today, through the packages of Zamazam deeds, we offer you a unique opportunity to obtain the utilization right of lavishly designed and furnished residential suits in the proximity of the Two Holy Mosques, for a periodical part of the year, at amazing rates!

SR230 per day. Spend 7 days yearly during summer vacation in Makkah and Madinah for 21 years."

Dar Al Qeblah, Madinah 

Abraj Al Beit, Makkah (1,2,3,4) 

Ponder.….

an immediate attainable investment.

For every SUBHANALLAH WA BIHAMDIH we utter, a tree is planted for us in Jannah! 

Ponder… 

the narration of ‘Abdullah bin Umar RadhiAllahu anhu who said that while sitting with the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam a branch of a date palm tree was brought to him. The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said, "There is a tree among the trees which is as blessed as a Muslim"

 Ponder…

Have you not considered how Allah makes a simile in the form of a beneficial word, like a good tree with stable roots and its branches in heaven.  (14:24)

 Ponder….

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. 

Doors….

One wonders, while wandering the alleyways of this Radiant City….

How many feet have crossed the worn thresholds of these doors?

How many have exited, responding to the call of Adhan?

How many have entered and exited with Du’a on their tongue?

How many births deaths and marriages have these old structures seen?

How many face lifts and coats of paint are hidden beneath the present exterior?

How much food and water has been carried into the privacy these doors protect?

How many guests have stood offering Salam as they arrive and leave?

How much money has passed these barriers, and how was it earned?

How many books have these doors seen pass by them?

How much recitation of Qur’an and Dhikr have these doors heard?

How many words of love, laughter, joy and peace have echoed past them?

How many sad comments, arguments, expressions of anger have been witnessed?

How much dust has settled then blown away from them?

How many raindrops have washed the surface?

Who built the walls to support the frame?

Who made the frame to hold the door?

Who planted the tree for the wood?

Who cut the tree for the timber?

Who carved and shaped the door?

Who fashioned and welded the metal?

Who worked in the factory to produce the paint?

Who created the design?

Who decided on the colour to paint the door?

Who painted it?

Who has been secluded safely within?

Who has been locked out?

Who imported the materials required?

Who transported them to the factory?

Who delivered the door and how? 

Who fitted the lock?

Who has a key? 

Who will buy these doors?

Who will refit these doors?

Whose modesty will they hide? 

What pounding and knocking has reverberated on these doors?

What goods have they been security for? 

What nationalities have worked within and walked through them? 

Who will construct a new building on this site?

What style of doors will welcome future pilgrims?

* 

An excessive number of questions?

Not compared to what we will be asked to account for from the multitude of bounties bestowed upon us each and every minute, secreted in each and every detail of our being.

SubhanAllah, Alhumdulillahir Rabbil Aalameen! 

So, what is the condition of the door to your heart?

Who, what do you allow in?

Who, what do you allow out?

Who, what do you welcome?

Who, what do you ignore? 

Who has the key?

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. 

THE MIX UP THE MIX UP THE MIX UP THE MIX UP THE MIX UP THE MIX UP

We rush.

We rush to follow our desires, and we fall, we fall into sin.

We rush to follow our desires, when our desires are contradictory to those of Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.

A mix up.

All creatures submit to Allah Ta’ala’s servitude, whereas man is given the power of choice.  Muslims are given the complete Deen and perfect bounty. All the powers of the world cannot disintegrate Islam; Muslims can.  It is sad that Muslims, intoxicated by slavery to desires, find sweetness in the rot of Dunya. The inebriation of a Dunya infatuation.

A mix up.

Weakness in the Muslim emanates from the mix up between religion and customs, habits, culture, traditions. Habits and customs do not have Divine depth, Divine origins, Divine eloquence. Religion is a Holy Command, habits and customs originate from the nafs. [Many Ulama say that Allah Ta’ala in the Qur’an, has described three main types of the Nafs. The worst being, Nafs al-Ammara Bissu’ the Nafs that urges evil, then Nafs al-Lawwama, the Nafs that Blames, and the better are Nafs al-Mutma`inna, the Nafs at Peace.]

We hear claims like “music is food for the soul” and “fine art takes man beyond the horizons”, from some Muslims.

A mix up.

A wise person realizes that “acting” is lying, some Muslims find “fun and entertainment” in lying.

Lying, via soapies, theater, movies, reality shows has become a basic component of a Muslims’ house in the form of the TV.  Hours are spent in front of this box that spreads different forms of deceit. Muslims become numb and unconscious to the fact that they are Muslims; one submitted fully to Allah Ta’ala and the bearer of guidance to Paradise for the entire of humanity.

A mix up.

The reality is that thread bare remnants of the Sunnah remains in society today. The Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum travelled from their life of simplicity in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah to fight in Persia. After they defeated Persia, they RadhiAllahu anhum were invited to partake of a meal by the Persians who were accustomed to a luxurious lifestyle. The Companions thought the fine thin breads were napkins for wiping their hands. Abdullah ibn Mas’ud RadhiAllahu anhu said:  “Would I leave the Sunnah of my beloved SallAllahu alaihi wasalam for the sake of these fools!” The fool is the one who does not know the Sunnah of Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.

A mix up.

Umar RadhiAllahu anhu said “We are people whom Allah has honoured with Islam, if we seek honour in other than Islam, Allah will dishonor us.” This honour in Islam is missing from Muslims today. We consider nationalities, certificates, tribes, children, wealth, houses, and organizations a source of pride and thus a source of honour. We have shifted from the way of the Companions.

Despite the lifestyles of the Persians and Romans being luxurious and pleasure filled, the Companions did not see any benefit in following such pursuits, even under the claim of winning them over; as some use as an excuse to justify leaving the Sunnah today. The companions sought the benefit of Deen in whatever they did away from the lure of desires.

A mix up.

Muslims are confused between their Deen and desires. Their Deen invites them to an eternal paradise, whereas their desires invite them to temporary pleasures. The root of confusion is in spending.

Muslims today spend most of their time for purposes other than Deen. For generations our customs and habits have been the priority rather than Deen. The importance of becoming a doctor or an engineer or to have a “professional” career is inculcated into the child’s heart.

A mix up.

Time is our capital. We can never add to it. It is the most precious gift we have. Through time we can acquire wealth, but never through wealth can we buy time; neither literally nor figuratively.

The importance of what we spend on is connected to the value of what we spend. Things other than Deen have gained status and became valuable. We have spent of the most precious thing we have; time.

A mix up.

The degeneration of the Muslim has reached such an extent that following the non Muslim and competing with them is the common, turning the focus of our efforts and objectives to this world and not the Hereafter.  

“This world has been created for you, and you have been created for the Hereafter” Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said. Accordingly, Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum strived for the purpose of their creation, not what has been created for them. This world has been created to help us to do our real work by preparing for the Hereafter.

A mix up.

Many claims appear advocating the betterment of the Muslims’ condition by gaining high positions, reaching to leaderships of countries, applying Shariah, Khilafat, armoring oneself with “science”, exerting effort to have various types of bombs, using different visual tools for Da’wah, and “empowering” the better half of society to leave the home and enter the workforce. Islam was revealed complete and perfect to Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, and was witnessed, loved and followed by the Sahabah and mothers of the believers RadhiAllahu anhum.

A mix up.

Even custom-infected fatwa has appeared. Some would twist the concept of “equality in marriage” to accommodate their tribal customs. Fatwa condoning a forbidden form of marriage has been given. Others have approved various forms of Riba to suit political pressures and twisted ideologies prevailing in their part of the world.

It is as if Deen is a rubber band stretched and contracted at will to suit customs, habits and desires.

A mix up.

The Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum changed their habits and customs for Islam. Their will and desires followed Islam; they changed their lives for the Deen. They moved in the world spreading Islam, pure without change, modification, addition or compromise.

When Islam became the life of the Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum, the entire world was affected and Islam spread. When our Islam is minimized, we are influenced by non-Muslims’ lifestyle. Consequently, the Iman of the Muslim becomes Iman with FUJOOR (indecency), instead of Iman with TAQWA (Piety). A Muslim prays, but also likes and is tempted by the seedier aspects of life around him, then the Iman is with FUJOOR.

If a Muslim prays with Khushu to Allah, fasts Ramadan to gain Taqwa, reads Quran with pondering, remembers Allah with concentration, and behaves well with others, he will avoid mixing his Iman with FUJOOR.

Due to a misunderstanding of these basic concepts, the “mix up” of Islam with customs, traditions, cultures and habits has occurred.

Love is the key to obedience and our ability to not being in a “mix up”.

Let us all ponder how and where we make a “mix up”, imploring Allah Ta’ala to guide us towards the only way to salvation, by bringing the reality of the Sunnah of His Habib SallAllahu alaihi wasallam into our lives, our homes, our environments, our hearts and the hearts of all around us. 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. 

Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, the Radiant has shed its light and knowledge on thousands of our illustrious predecessors. Their heritage and scholarly works form a deep pool of learning we are blessed to dip into for guidance, understanding and inspiration. By reading about the lives and qualities of these pious seekers, Insha’Allah our Iman can be on the increase, with hearts willing to sacrifice and reform all that is of no benefit in this world and our Akhirah.

Imam Abu Hanifah Rahmatullah alaihi made several journeys to Makkah and Madinah throughout his life, initially taking lessons from several Tabi’in, namely Sulaiman Rahmatullah alaihi who had been a slave of Lady Maimunah RadhiAllahu anha, and Salimibn Abdullah who was the grandson of Umar ibn Khattab RadhiAllahu anhu. His lifelong fondness for the company of scholars and for participating in learned gatherings was inborn in him. He became so famous that wherever he went thousands of people gathered around him for interviews, discussions and debates.

The noble father of the venerable Abu Hanifah, the Supreme Imam and founder of our Islamic Law, was the venerable Thabit, may Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala have mercy on him. Once in his bachelor days, he was making his ritual ablution by a stream when he saw an apple bobbing towards him on the water. He picked up the apple and took a bite. As soon as his teeth had broken the skin, he said to himself: ‘What am I doing, biting something that does not belong to me without the owner’s permission?’ Then he started walking back up the stream hoping to find the tree the apple was from.

At length he came upon a tree overhanging the water and, seeing that it bore similar apples, he decided that the one that he had bitten must have come from it. He therefore called to a person working in the orchard: “Sir, three hours ago I found this apple downstream and I took a bite, intending to eat it. But then, as I could not bear the thought of eating something that did not belong to me, I walked all this way to return it to its rightful owner. I guess this apple must have come from your tree. Now let me give you something in exchange for it, or else pardon this trespass of mine.” Hearing this request, the owner of the orchard, whose name was Salih, decided to put the man to the test: “No,” he said, “Impossible! I shall not let you off…. How dare you bite my property without my permission?” Receiving the reply: “What must I do to earn your pardon?” the venerable Salih said: “I will pardon you after you work beside me in this orchard for three years.” By this means he intended to discover whether he was dealing with a pious hypocrite, a stupid Sufi wanting to appear devout, or with a perfect man who would not eat another’s property because he genuinely feared Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala

That was what he wanted to find out by making such a proposal, and the venerable Thabit responded without hesitation: “Yes, I shall work!” He was as good as his word, and worked out the three years. At the end of this time, the venerable Salih said to Thabit: “Even though you have completed the three years, I still have you accountable for that apple. There is only one way to settle that account: I have a daughter, whose name is ‘Abidatu-l’Azhar. She has neither sight nor hearing, and can move neither hand nor foot. If you will take this daughter of mine in marriage, all the apples in the orchard, and all the apple trees shall be yours. Where could I find a conscientious son-in-law like you? If I were to die, who would look after the poor girl in her condition? I could not entrust her to anyone but a person fed on lawful milk, such as you. You are religious, conscientious. Come, give me your reply and we can settle our account.” “I shall take her!” answered Thabit.

The wedding was arranged, with great festivities. When the marriage had been contracted, Thabit entered the bridal chamber. Awaiting him there, dressed in her bridal clothes, he found a ravishing beauty in perfect health. Out he rushed, crying to his father-in law: "This marriage is invalid. You told me that your daughter was blind, but the girl in there has eyes like a gazelle. You told me she was crippled, but she stands there like a cypress." To this the venerable Salih replied: “I spoke to you metaphorically. When I called her blind, I meant blind to what is unlawful. When I called her deaf, I meant deaf to bad words and evil speech. When I said she could neither move hand or foot, I meant that she touched nothing unlawful and never went to places Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala disapproved of. She is your wife, your lawful spouse. She is a worthy partner for you.

The venerable Thabit married that virtuous lady, who became the mother of Abu Hanifah. While still a child the latter recited the Holy Qur’an in three days. When he came home happily to tell his mother: ‘I read ten parts in one day, and got through the entire Qur’an in three days,” the venerable ‘Abidatu-l’Azhar said: “ My son, if your father had not bitten the apple without permission, you would have finished in one day!” May the mercy of Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala be upon her….and Abu Hanifah Rahamatullah alaihi.

Stories and sayings from Imam Abu Hanifah’s life.

One day a man came to the Imam and said: “I kept some money somewhere in my house, but do not remember exactly where. I now need the money badly, please tell me how I can find it.” “Brother,” protested the Imam, “I do not find this kind of problem mentioned in Fiqh. Why have you come to me for advice?” But on further entreaty by the man he advised him to pray throughout the night. The man accordingly went home and started praying. He had prayed for a little while when he suddenly remembered where he had put the money. So he ran to the Imam and told him of the efficacy of his advice. “Of course,” commented the Imam, “Shaytan could not bear the idea of your praying for the whole night, so he made you remember at once where you had put your money. However you ought to have prayed throughout the night by way of giving thanks to Allah.

*

One day when the Imam arrived at his shop, his servant put out some lengths of cloth and by way of a good augury said, “May Allah grant us paradise!” The Imam started weeping and wept so much that his whole mantle became wet. Then he told the servant to shut the shop and went out covering his face with his handkerchief. When he came to the shop the following day he said to the servant, “Who are we to wish for Paradise?” It will be enough if Allah spares us His wrath.” Umar Faruq used to say similarly, “If on the Day of Judgement I am neither punished nor rewarded, I shall be quite happy.

*

The Imam was tender hearted and was greatly disturbed by other people’s pain and sorrow. One day while he was teaching in a mosque somebody came with the news that a certain man had fallen from the roof of his house. He cried out loud, left the class and ran barefoot to the man’s house and attended upon him until he had fully recovered. But as distressed as he was with other people’s sufferings, he bore his own with an equanimity which astonished people. Through all the persecution to which he was subjected by the Caliph and his officers he never wavered for a moment. Patience and steadfastness were his constant companions.

*

There was a merry cobbler living in the Imam’s neighbourhood. After his days work he would come home with meat and wine and entertain his friends till all hours of the night. They would eat kababs, which he himself would cook and drink his wine with him. Happily drunk he would sing a couplet: “People have let me go to waste, who would have been useful to them in battle and siege.” The Imam, who used to spend the greater part of the night in prayer would hear his singing, but never objected to it out of neighbourly consideration and his habitual kindness. One night the cobbler was arrested and locked up. On the following morning the Imam mentioned to his friends that he had not heard the cobbler singing in the night. They informed him of what had happened. He immediately proceeded to the governor, Isa ibn Musa, who was the cousin of Caliph Mansur, and distinguished among the Abbasids for sagacity and bravery. On being informed that Imam Abu Hanifah was coming to see him he sent a number of courtiers to receive him, with orders that he be escorted on horseback right up to his courtyard. When asked why he had taken the trouble to come to the governor, who said he could have come to Imam Abu Hanifah, he replied, “I come to ask for the release of the cobbler, who is my neighbor. Isa immediately sent for orders for the cobbler’s release. As they walked home the Imam said, “Well my friend, have I let you go to waste?” The cobbler replied, “No sir, you have proved a very good neighbor.” From that day on he gave up his drunken ways and joined the Imam’s classes, and in due course attained such scholarship that he came to be known as a faqih.

*

His piety and devotion knew no bounds. Praying was a delight to him and he used to engage in it with great gusto and sincerity, and he was famous for this. Dhahabi writes: “Accounts of his piety and devotion have reached a degree of tawatur (an unbroken chain of uncontradicted narrations).” While saying his prayers or reciting the Qur’an he would be so overcome by feeling that he would start weeping and go on doing so for hours. Ibrahim Basri relates that one morning while he was saying his prayers together with the Imam, the latter recited the Ayat:

Do not think that Allah is forgetful of the conduct of the iniquitous.

And in reciting it he wept so much that his whole body shook with sobs. Za’idah relates that having an important question to consult the Imam about, he joined the Esha prayer with him and waited for him to finish his nafls. But the Imam when in reciting from the Qur’an he reached the Ayat:

Save us from the torture of Hell’s hot wind

He went on repeating it till the morning.

On another occasion he spent the whole night weeping while repeating the Ayat:

Judgement Day is the sinners promised hour and it is a difficult and unpleasant hour.

*

May Allah Ta’ala be pleased with him and with us. 

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. 

 CHILDREN

Your children are not your children.

    They are the sons and daughters of Life’s longing for itself.

    They come through you but not from you,

    And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.

    You may give them your love but not your thoughts,

    For they have their own thoughts.

    You may house their bodies but not their souls,

    For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,

    which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.

    You may strive to be like them,

    but seek not to make them like you.

    For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday.

    You are the bows from which your children

    as living arrows are sent forth.

    The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite,

    and He bends you with His might

    that His arrows may go swift and far.

    Let our bending in the archer’s hand be for gladness;

    For even as He loves the arrow that flies,

    so He loves also the bow that is stable.

Kahlil Gibran

Such a wonderful message conveyed in this poem for all to take heed regarding our role towards  children, the future flag bearers of this glorious Deen.

They need our love, care, respect, guidance, understanding, patience, and mercy.

They need to feel secure, confident, competent, loved, appreciated, and worthy.

They need to experience a balance between their religious duties, academic pursuits, physical activities and creative play.

A huge tent has been erected on one of the large open spaces created from the demolition of older buildings just to the south of Haram. Rows of “more of the same” markets are set up inside and out, attracting crowds over the weekend days and nights.  The addition of colorful air sculptures, a trampoline area and quad bikes is a welcomed feature for children to play and explore.

The majority of families in Madinah live in apartment style buildings where they are confined indoors, many not even having access to a balcony. Some buildings have a rooftop where the smaller children may ride bikes or have a swing.  Children comprise a huge percent of the population here, but there are very few parks or gardens for them to play and release their exuberant energy. Unfortunately, due to a lack of such facilities for the young ones, the courtyard around Haram during the weekend becomes their picnic ground.    

The minarets of Haram on the other side of first ring road bridge. 

Not many children were present at this time, the evenings being more popular, but I felt invorgated just watching these little ones. Initially hesitant and frightened on their first attempts, but then squeals of "letting go" and submitting to the experience were soon heard. A deeper lessen for us all in this!

Waiting their turn. By no means a glamourous setting, but evidence of excitement and enjoyment was there in such simplicity. 

I do not know who wrote the following, but we can all take from its message.

If a child lives with criticism, he learns to condemn.
If a child lives with hostility, he learns to fight.
If a child lives with ridicule, he learns to be shy.

If a child lives with tolerance, he learns to be patient.
If a child lives with fairness, he learns justice.
If a child lives with security, he learns to have faith.

Let our bending in the archer’s hand be for gladness;

    For even as He loves the arrow that flies,

    so He loves also the bow that is stable.

Patterns of folds and creases adhere to swaying bodies buffeted by gusty winds sweeping across the courtyard. Pigeons and dust fly across Jannatul Baqi, momentarily caressing craggy grave stones before whipping up another frenzy of dust, feathers and billowing fabric. Murmurs and splutters of tears merge into the encoded sound wave vibrancy.

Who says you cannot see love, touch love, hear love, taste love, smell love?

Love is watching and hearing the patter of bare feet, surging as if magnetized, across polished marble and deep plush carpet to those few meters of the entire Universe that is Paradise, to be as close as possible to the adjacent Abode of Peace, where our Beloved, our Intercessor for the real Jannah is aware of us all.

Love is when the physical realm of one’s body is so squashed to the next that one’s identity dissolves.

Love is when the breathing of sisters from lands and places so distanced, sighs and cries in unison.

Love is when for a whole hour one is part of a throng patiently waiting to move another step closer.

Love is when the eyes can see the antique grill separating us from our Beloved SallAllahu alaihi wasallam while the heart has already entered.

Love is the aroma of hundreds, confined and controlled in the heat, wafting with the ethereal fragrance from the Beloved SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.

Love is when the well of ancient tears flow freely, breaking all droughts.

Then suddenly love is not and yet is all….that explosive all consummating flash, a fusion of the outer and the inner, the hidden and the manifest…. surrender.

*

I fumbled my way to an open area beneath the umbrellas. Trying to search for a reality within a body that seemed devoid of a heart. A heart smitten by love, in love, for the love of our Rabb, through His most loved one SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.

My focus is then turned to a search of a different kind, for my niqab and gloves after the crush, when reality hits…THEY ARE GONE! Lost in the crush of love! First disbelief; another search.  Nothing. Then a smile. Then various plans racing through my head. Interesting, as the option of walking home without these was a resounding no option.  I decided on plan a-5+76>%x-1.02+y…..which was….pulling my arms up into my big abaya and attaching my raggedy old SHOE BAG to my face!!!!!!!!!! until  I wander to the shops. But it was still too early for the majority of them to be open. I must have looked a sight in the empty Taiba building, the security guys keeping an eye on me. I finally see one clothing shop open, thinking that throwing a black scarf over my head would be enough to get me home, but Alhumdulillah they had a niqab! And gloves I got from one of the trinket type places which seem to be open from Fajr.

While crossing the courtyard I came across many huge locusts. They have been about for a week or so now. It intrigues me as to why they would venture to Madinah as there is no food to attract them. I feel they too are visiting for the Barakah of this blessed Radiant City and to give their Salam to its honoured resident SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. And Almighty Allah Ta’ala knows best.

It has been fascinating watching the reaction of people to these quite large locusts; squeals and surprised jumps! My “blog” mind thought that a photo of them would be good, but I did not have my camera, knowing that I was going for Ziarah. They all looked dead, just lying on the marble. So I picked one up, thinking I could take a photo of it when I got home, and keep it as a show and tell specimen. I wrapped it carefully in a tissue and placed it gently inside the SHOE BAG! Alhumdulillah for this shoe bag! I then resumed my strolling homeward, thinking how to eat locusts is Halal, and the time I did eat them in Indonesia. Crispy and crunchy! And of how when the Prophet Ayyub Alaihis Sallam was taking a bath,  Allah Ta’ala, sent a swarm of gold locusts falling on him. He started collecting them in his garment when he heard Allah Ta’ala call to him, ‘O Ayyub! Have I not made you rich enough to need what you see? He said, ‘Yes, O Lord! But I cannot dispense with your Blessing.’ A beautiful reminder, always a beautiful reminder in all of the signs sent from Allah Ta’ala. Including His reference to them in His Book, where the disbelievers will rise from their graves:

Their eyes cast down, going forth from their graves as if they were scattered locusts. (Al-Qamar  54:7)

And how Firaun was cursed with a plague of them. (Al-Araf, 7:133)

*

Immersed in Dhikr and the remnants of love from the mornings visit, my reverie was jolted as my “dead” photographic model took flight! It was a majestic escape, large glittering silvery wings soaring to the heavens!

Such a metaphor! Ya Allah, change my dead heart to be soaring to the heavens in my love for You and Your Beloved, SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, Ameen.

Know that the world is a mirror from head to foot,

In every atom are a hundred blazing suns.

If you cleave the heart of one drop of water,

A hundred pure oceans emerge from it.

If you examine closely each grain of sand,

A thousand Adams may be seen in it.

In its members a gnat is like an elephant,

In its qualities a drop of rain is like the Nile.

The heart of a piece of corn equals a hundred harvests,

A world dwells in the heart of a millet seed.

In the wing of a gnat is the ocean of life.

In the pupil of the eye a heaven.

What though the corn grain of the heart be small

It is a station of the Lord of both worlds to dwell therein.

Mahmud Shabistari from The Garden of Mystery

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. 

Ziarah to Jabal Uhud early morning of Juma’ah with visitors.

Jabal Rumah to the left. Ulema say that Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam received his battle injury at the place in the middle foreground approxiamately where the darker stone beyond the concrete strip is located.  Jabal Habshi in the background with the Royal Palace on top, where Dajjal will look down upon Haram.

Looking at Jabal Rumah, the Archer’s Hill, from where the battle took place.

These makeshift markets are far too numerous, making the movement of visitors difficult. Construction is underway of a formal building for trading. 

From Jabal Uhud part way to the cave (1, 2) where the Sahabah RadhiAllahu anahum carried our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam when he was wounded. The minarets of Haram in the distance to the left. The authorities have announced plans to relocate all buildings from the foothills of Jabal Uhud. Whether this happens remains to be seen, it would be a massive project, and certainly an admirable concept to preserve the natural features of Jabal Uhud, Bab Al-Jannah.

Jabal Uhud glowing with love for us, and we love it, as Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said! Taken from just below the cave. 

From the same place, looking to the right. All of these houses would be demolished if the plan is executed. The rooftops are fascinating. Some are carpeted, others had fresh foliage spread over the area, maybe as insulation against the heat.  

The rugged terrain. The two white dots were part of a group walking along the top! 

Alhumdulillah when we first arrived we were the only ones, before a van load of Turkish pilgrims arrived. And Alhumdulillah there was no sign of the "vice squad" who recently have been making their presence felt demanding that people do not visit the cave, and making all sorts of threats!

Herds of inquisitive goats are always scrambling about, obviously gaining nourishment from this blessed mountain, where it is said everything from it is Shifa’. I did not notice when I quickly took this photo the graffiti "heart" painted on the rock with La ilaha illAllah below it! Pity I cannot upload the larger images to the blog as much is lost when compressed.

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. 

Days of guests, Alhumdulillah. A special Hafizah, Alimah, Muftiah all in one, SubhanAllah! with her two dear daughters, whom I have not seen for nine years! After Salatul Asr we went to Starbucks!!! where I took the following photos from very dirty windows.

The eastern expansion excavation with the beginnings of construction appearing. 

A sense of the depth of the excavating. Brothers inside Jannatul Baqi for Ziarah.  

The crowded narrow pathway between Haram and the construction fence. 

Looking over the northern ladies courtyard area where the preparatory work for the installation of the outside umbrellas continues. 

JUMA’AH MUBARAK, the last Juma’ah in Rabi’al Awwal.

Insha’Allah time for reading Surah Al-Kahf, when Allah Ta’ala will create a Nur for the reciter which will remain with him until the following Juma’ah. And other narrations mention say that a Nur is illuminated between the reciter and the Ka’abah, another says that the Nur for the reader will stretch from the earth to the heavens and on the Day of Qiyamah this Surah will be a shining light for it’s reader. And send abundant Durood and Salaam on our Beloved Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam as it is presented to him and he in turn prays and begs forgiveness for us.

O Sustainer, shower Salat and Salaam forever and ever upon Your beloved, who is the best of 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. 

Dust settles on weary camels and the litters they have transported from far off lands along with merchandise being exchanged and loaded. Dust-covered feet mingle with the dust-covered weird two-toed cushioned feet of the snarling, gurgling, squealing camels. The dusty ground vibrating with muffled padding sounds, stirring a dusty orchestra of hustle and bustle. A dusty mix of aromas, a heady musty combination distilled from dung, spices, foods and bodies alien to the luxuries of modern bathroom facilities.  An imaginary image evoked from a scene of Al-Manakhah, the central market place of this Glowing City, approximately one hundred years ago. A description that could also be from the time of our Noble Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, when this very piece of ground was the main trading hub, Al-Manakhah; “the place where camels knelt down.”

Not much has changed, the Mubarak dust still swirls from the desert wind blasts, showing no discrimination for what it blankets. Merchandise circulates from around the globe. Sounds pierce the air; the natural animate noises now mix with the honking, screeching and revving of the modern “camels”. People’s needs are the same. People’s love for the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam magnetizes them. Our obligations to Allah Almighty are the same. Masjid Nabawi is a short stroll away, where Adhan seizes the heart, halting our worldly attention.

Haram is to the left, just past the date market where the original Al-Manakhah was. The minaret of Masjid Bilal is in the background.  

Everything, and yet nothing has changed. A contemporary enigma.  Our surroundings might vary. Our vision, or how we view our surroundings makes the difference.  For example, markets can be humble tents on dusty ground. Also they can be a sophisticated mall in a glitzy suburb.  If we deal with them as they truly are, a market, then conceptually we will be able to see the correct way of handling them; the way of Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.

A row of ladies sit day in and day under dusty beach umbrellas selling an array of natural Bedouin-style goods.  A year or so ago there were only three to four ladies vying for the passing custom as motorist drove by this busy location. Now there are more than ten all in a row, surrounded by their makeshift “stores”. Old cardboard boxes, blankets and assorted scraps of fabric are draped over and around the umbrellas and the row of trees they huddle under.

One of the "shops" from the back, a black clad niqabi sister patiently sits, partly visible in the middle. The wooden frame atop the trolley for transporting their wares. Though many items are simply covered over when they are not in attendance.  Note the Madinah mint strung from the tree across the umbrella. What they do not sell as fresh, they dry and crush and sell that by the bag.  

I hesitantly approached the sister, wanting to buy one of the circular sufrahs, but also with the intention and hope of asking her if I could take a photo, knowing from past experiences that these sisters have run after me when they have seen a camera. But that was my mistake too, as I did not approach them first. So I began asking her about how they make these natural products from the dry date palm leaves. The way the colour patterns are dyed, the weaving process and about the sisters who keep these traditions going. She was extremely happy to chat, asking me where I am from…which then made the opening for me to request some photos to show others their beautiful work. I made it clear that I would not include her in the picture, but she stood up anyway, directing me to make sure I included all of her wares!

I thank sister Anisah once again for her explanations describing some of these traditional things. In the right hand corner are small hand-held brooms, or miknissa in Arabic, assembled form the coarser fronds. In previous times they were the main way of sweeping the dirt floors, and small carpets. These days it is the older generation, and the poorer ones still living a simple life in some of the humble dwellings still seen in the older alley ways who buy these.

To the left of these are bags of henna, which is a very popular quality sought after by pilgrims while in Madinah and Makkah. It is an untainted form of this powdered leaf for the dying of hair and the hands, both a Sunnah. The dying of the hair and the beard being a Sunnah for the men.  Thabit RadhiAllahu anhu reported that Anas b. Malik RadhiAllahu anhu was asked about the dyeing of the hair of Allah’s Apostle SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. He explained that there were so few white hairs that if I so liked I could count their number. He further said that he SallAllahu alaihi wasallam did not dye his hair, but that Abu Bakr and ‘Umar RadhiAllahu anhuma used pure henna on their hair. 

While the dying the end of the finger tips was a practice for the women beginning at the time of our dear lady Aishah RadhiAllahu anha.  Once, a woman made a sign from behind a curtain to indicate that she had a letter for the Apostle of Allah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, he closed his hand, saying that he was unsure  if the hand belonged to  a man or a woman. When our dear lady Aishah RadhiAllahu anha said it was that of a lady he SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said it is better for a woman to colour her nails to distinguish them from that of a man.

According to another narration by Salmah henna can be used as a pain killer as well. A maid-servant of the Apostle of Allah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said that no one complained to the Apostle of Allah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam of a headache but he told him to be cupped, or of a pain in his legs but he told him to dye them with henna. SubhanAllahu!

Hand held fans are in the foreground, each one a work of art in itself, all designs unique.

The golden-colored liquid in the plastic containers is called "halawa".  It’s a sticky solution made with sugar, and women use it as a natural defoliant, as against all the chemical products commercially available.

Just behind this are bags of dried milk (laban) known as called "madheer". Many eat it as a snack. The sister gave me some to try, it is sour and salty.  They boil the milk, drain any liquid, form patties, then  let it dry.  It can be dissolved and used in cooking. One other older sister some time ago sitting at another place selling her goods told me some add it to their kabsah, the famous Arab meat on rice dish.  I became the audience of a dramatic enactment by this dear sister showing me that it is extremely effective for preventing morning sickness during pregnancy.  Plus due to it being a non perishable foodstuff, able to withstand the heat and not requiring refrigeration, it would be a staple commodity with the Bedouins.

And the eggs! Such a delicious free range variety with deep orange yokes. We buy nothing else. We joke and call then roof range eggs as many keep their chickens on the roof. When we first came here it was common to hear the roosters’ crow at dawn, but unfortunately their presence is getting less as the demolition of the older buildings moves the poorer residents further out.

Where the sister sits for hours and hours! The famous fresh Madinah mint under wet hessian bags, and examples of the two sizes of sufrah, with assorted storage, shopping baskets. Some with lids. And even sun hats! Apart from our regular buying of roof range egss, I buy many of the date-palm items for home use, but also as unique gifts from this Radiant City, supporting this traditional industry, but also spreading the Mubarak blessings of all things from here.

Everything, yet nothing, changes. Dust settles.

Nothing, but everything, changes. Dust settles.

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. 

DU’A 

What hidden secrets the earth and the air particles must hold in this Blessed City, the Abode of the Chosen. All the impassioned tears of Allah Ta’ala’s chosen one SallAllahu alaihi wasallam flowing from his mubarak beard, spilling on the mubarak dust.  Words of love for his Lord, concern and fear for his Ummah, and pleas for mercy from the Most Merciful, Subahanahu Wa Ta’ala, filling the skies, heard by all the heavenly Angels, reaching the Arsh. Utterances from the thousands who obediently acted upon every revelation, answered every call for the sake of this new message also reside in the realm of this collective memory. Added to this rich treasury of devotion are the sentiments of every notable scholar throughout the history of this precious Deen, as well as the thousands of contemporary pious Ulema, then finally the voices of millions living and visiting this Abode of the Chosen. The image of sound waves constantly rippling from the soul of the earth, vibrating through the atmosphere and intermingling with all those from across the globe has a breathtaking impact. I am referring to Du’a.  

Du’a; praising, supplicating, humbly requesting, begging, pleading, imploring, entreating, confidential communicating with Allah Ta’ala, invoking, repenting, hoping, seeking from the all-embracing Mercy.

According to the sayings of our Beloved Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam,

·         Du’a is the marrow of worship,

·          Whoever wants Allah to respond to his supplications at the time of his calamities should engage in frequent supplications during the times of his happiness,

·         Ask Allah for His favour, because Allah likes to be asked; and the best worship is prolonged hope for relief.

·         Du’a is the weapon of a believer, the pillar of Deen and the Nur of the heavens and earth.

·         One of three things never fails to come to a man from supplication: either is sin is forgiven him, or something good comes hurriedly to him, or something good is stored up for him.

·         When Allah loves a man, he puts him on trial until He hears his humble request.

Allah Ta’ala in His Book enumerates many verses for us to ponder and act upon related to Du’a. I include only a few, realizing that this topic is  huge. Insha’Allah you can refer to Tafseer for deeper elaboration.

When My servants ask about Me, I am indeed close to them.  I listen to the prayer of every supplicant, when he calls on Me.  Let them also, with a will, listen to My call, and believe in Me, so that they may walk in the right way.  (2:186).

Seek Allah’s help with patient perseverance and prayer. It is indeed hard except for those who are humble. (2:45)

Oh you who believe! Seek help with patient perseverance and prayer, for God is with those who patiently persevere. (2:153)

Be sure We shall test you with something of fear and hunger, some loss in goods, lives, and the fruits of your toil. But give glad tidings to those who patiently persevere. Those who say, when afflicted with calamity, ‘To Allah we belong, and to Him is our return.’ They are those on whom descend blessings from their Lord, and mercy. They are the ones who receive guidance. (2:155-157)

Oh you who believe! Persevere in patience and constancy. Vie in such perseverance, strengthen each other, and be pious, that you may prosper.  (3:200)

They were competing with one another in doing good deeds and supplicating unto Us in longing and in fear. (7:55)

Supplicate unto your Lord humbly and secretly. (21:90)

And be steadfast in patience, for verily Allah will not suffer the reward of the righteous to perish. (11:115)

Be patient, for your patience is with the help of Allah. (16:127)

Verily, with every difficulty there is relief. Verily, with every difficulty there is relief. (94:5-6)

Patiently, then, persevere - for the Promise of Allah is true, and ask forgiveness for your faults, and celebrate the praises of your Lord in the evening and in the morning. (40:55)

No one will be granted such goodness except those who exercise patience and self-restraint, none but persons of the greatest good fortune. (41:35)

Verily man is in loss, except such as have faith, and do righteous deeds, and join together in the mutual enjoining of truth, and of patience and constancy. (103:2-3)

Du’a is an act of worship and a means to fulfill our needs, the servants of Allah Ta’ala. Not a second passes without someone somewhere being without need. And our needs are constantly changing in this ever constant flux of change, and they vary as much as does the creation. Not one particle moves without the Will of Allah Ta’ala, so how prepared are we when we are faced with a multi-zillion particles in motion setting up all the various tests destined for us?  All the worldly activities move to a Divine Scheme, continually presenting us with one test followed by another followed by another. All the while we are being scrutinized. Every single human is under the microscope of examination; however the conditions under which this examination is being conducted is the variable.

The exquisite world of Jannah is for those who, of their own free will, subordinate themselves to Allah Ta’ala’s Will, regardless of what that may be for us. His Garden is promised to those who adhere to His Commands, even though they have been given the free will to stray from this noble path. Jannah is for those who, even though not compelled to do so, choose to obey His Commands, entrusting and submitting to every aspect and issue that confronts them.

The true servant is the one who seeks everlasting reward for his actions, concentrating on the eternal goal, longing for Allah Ta’ala’s mercy and grace alone. Outwardly belonging to this world, but inwardly absorbed in the promise of the Unseen and striving for this, regardless of what afflictions, desires, poverty, luxuries or any other condition may be tempting to deviate him from this goal. Patiently submitting to what has been Written, and then accepting with the utmost humility and gratitude for all the other unlimited bounties we are granted. Du’a not only brings the heart back to the remembrance of Allah Ta’ala, but is that which brings the heart back to humility and submissiveness to Him, the knowing that Allah Ta’ala knows more than us what is in our best interests. SubhanAllah! We need to recognize our servanthood, our helplessness, our impotence, our inability to control, our perpetual reliance on Allah Ta’ala.   

The following from Ibrahim bin Adham, Rahmatullah alaihi, from Al Basra, is his response from when people complained to him that despite calling on Allah, they did not receive what they asked for. He explained that it was because their hearts were dead due to the following ten factors:

1.) You know Allah (SWT), yet you do not fulfill His rights
2.) You read the Qura’an, yet you do not follow it.
3.) You claim to love the Prophet (Sal Allah Alayhi Wa Salaam), yet you do not act upon the sunnah.
4.) You claim the devil is your enemy, yet you agree with him.
5.) You claim to love Paradise, yet you do nothing to earn it.
6.) You claim to hate the Fire, but you do nothing to flee from it.
7.) You claim that death is real, yet you do not prepare for it.
8.) You are preoccupied with the faults of others, yet you do not think of your own faults.
9.) You eat the blessings of Allah, yet do not thank Him (SWT).
10.) We bury the dead, yet take no lesson from it.

This is part of our “Madanian Wall”. Many of these images have been on the wall of places we have been living since our concerted efforts of making Du’a to be residents of Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah. The visual reminder seemed to focus the heart on wanting to be here. I share this with you ALL, especially sisters Tasnim, M, J and S!

A beautiful translation of the Du’a for Salatul Haajaat.

Al-Hisnul Haseen is a comprehensive book of Du’a, as well as explaining the Adab and information pertaining to the acceptance of Du’a.

A diverse collection of Du’a for various occasions.

Hujjatul Islam Imam Abu Hamid al-Ghazali’s excellent book, Invocations and Supplications.

Abu Dawud RadhiAllahu anhu reported that the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: Whenever a Muslim supplicates on behalf of his brother in his absence, an angel repeats, “May you also have the same.” (Muslim)

O Allah, make my love for You the most beloved thing to me, and my fear for You the most fearful thing to me, and remove from me all worldly needs and wants by instilling a passion for meeting You, and when You have given the people of the world the pleasures of their world, make the coolness of my eyes in worshipping You.  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. 

A Prophet came while people were wrapped in pride
and in the pitch-black darkness of the night of unbelief,
Whereupon he dispelled this darkness with abundant light,
and in this matter he was helped by each of those who submitted.

 ‘Abdur Rahman ibn `Awf, RadhiAllahu anhu

* 

 When you were born, a light rose over the earth
until it illuminated the horizon with its radiance.
We are in that illumination, that original light,
those paths of guidance.
And thanks to them we pierce through.

Al-`Abbas ibn `Abd al-Muttalib, RadhiAllahu anhu, the Uncle of the Propeht SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.

* 

Insha’Allah, may we submit to the “abundant light” and be in “illumination”, steadfastly treading the paths of guidance, as we continue to bring the essence of the birth of our Blessed Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam into our hearts. A daily celebration of the legacy of the Sunnah Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam so lovingly sacrificed for us, his constant concern being “Ummmati Ummati”. We need to ask ourselves what is our constant concern?

I found the following to be an inspirational dissertation offering a different perspective on our potential, along with ways to assist our ongoing efforts of self reform to make the Sunnah a reality in our lives in the here and now.

From Necklaces of Gems by Shaikh ‘Abd Al-Qadir Al-Jilani, Rahmatullah alaihi concerning the nature of the human being:

·         How marvelous is the creation of this human being, and how marvelous is the wisdom of the Maker in His work! Blessed and Exalted is He!

·         The human being would be a sovereign ruler, by virtue of his intellect, but for the inclination to follow his passionate desire. He would have a truly gracious character, but for the coarseness of his constitution.

·         The human being is a treasure house, stocked with the wondrous mysteries of the Unseen, along with vast hoards of every kind of fault.

·         The human being is a vessel, filled with light and darkness, in which the veil of the bride of the Spirit has called for the veiling of all forms, to screen them from the eyes of jealous rivals.

·         The human being is the prodigious wonder, whose beauty the Power of the Lord displayed to His servants, the Angels, clad in the fine garments of: And we indeed honoured the Children of Adam (17:70), at a session held in His presence, where He also said: And We have granted them a special favour. (17:70), meaning the faculty of reason, with an indication that it is a favour from the Knower of the Unseen and the Visible.

·         The oysters of the temples carried the pearls of the spirits through the oceans of existence, aboard the ships of knowledge, in order to perfect the radiance of the light of certainty. Driven by the wind of the Spirit, they voyaged to the treasuries of the sacred struggle.

·         Within the human being, the Sultan of reason stood opposite the Sultan of passionate desire, and the two of them clashed and fought in the courtyard of his breast.

·         The lower self was one of the marshalls of the armies of Sultan of passionate desire, and the spirit was one of the generals of the armies of the Sultan of reason.

·         The herald of judgement called out amongst them: O cavalry of Allah, ride forth! O squadrons of the Truth, appear! O troops of passionate desire, advance!”

·         Each of them wished for a victory of his own forces, and each of them tried to conquer his opponent.

·         The voice of enabling grace spoke to the pair of them, in the ancient tongue of the Unseen, saying: “Whomever I support, the flag of victory will be tied to his banners. Whoever I assist, he will be the fortunate one in this world and in the Hereafter. Whomever I am with, I shall not part from him, until I have brought him to the seat of truthfulness.

·         Enabling grace is the approving glance of the Lord of Truth (Glory be to Him), directed toward His protégé [wali] through the eye of His providential care.

·         O young man! You must follow reason, for it will steer your course on the path of the greatest bliss. You must become detached from your lower self and your passionate desire, for then you will see the true marvel.

·         The spirit is heavenly, invisible, while the lower self is terrestrial, earthy.

·         The bird of the graceful flies out of the nest of the course, on the wing of providential care, up into the tree on high. It rests on the bough of nearness to the Lord, warbles with the musical tone of the language of ardent yearning, sings the song of intimate friendship, and gleans the jewels of the realities from between the wings of direct experience.

·         As for the bird of the course, it stays trapped in the cage of the gloom of existence.

·         When the molds become extinct, the inner secrets of the hearts remain intact.

·         If He cats an approving glance into your heart, He will set it on the platform of His Throne, entrust it with the true facts of the sciences, and make it the treasury of the secrets of direct knowledge. Then you will behold, with your rational intellect, the beauty of eternity-without-beginning. You will turn away from everything qualified by the attributes of novelty. The vision of your innermost being will perceive the shapes of the worlds of the Realm of Sovereignty, in the mirror of nearness to your Lord. Displayed to the eye of your secret soul will be the brides of revelation, in the session of the disclosure of the real meanings of the signs, for all traces of the scribbling of the universe will have been erased from the tablet of your aspiration.

·         Hey, you there! When the faculties of reason are unfolded, the stallions are saddled in the shade. Pure thoughts are the signposts of the lords of direct knowledge and predestined providence.

·         When suspicions abound and the will is thereby affected, you must remove the veil of your doubt from the faces of the maidens of certainty. When the signposts become too few and far between, you must cut off the thoughts of falsehood with the hand of Truth.  

O Allah, illuminate our hearts with the love of your Habib SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, brighten our sight with the noble vision our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam had for us, his Ummah, and bless us with the courage and ability to actualize his Sunnah. Eternal peace and blessings on the best of creation, Al-Mustafa SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, his family, companions and all pious flag bearers of this glorious Deen, who light their hearts from his SallAllahu alaihi wasallam light. 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. 

Spring bursts, like no other place, in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, the Illuminated City of the Prophet, SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Trees sing and sway in an awakening dance.  Not many trees, but enough for the heart to rejoice as the vision plays on the soul. And because there is little vegetation within the sacred boundaries of the City itself, more emphasis and prominence strikes the heart due to the scarcity and the contrast with the dominant somber sandy hues.

Spring changes us. It’s Divine Energy of renewal, birth and hope enlivens and inspires. The best colour for the eyes to gaze upon is green. It is calming; a balm for whatever may ail one. And of all the colours one associates with this City of Enlightenment it is GREEN. The subtle changing tones and shades of the Mubarak Dome of Peace is synonymous to believers the world over with our love for our Beloved Al-Mustafa, SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Green was his SallAllahu alaihi wasallam favourite colour. SubhanAllah! And according to a narration by Lady Aishah RadhiAllahu anha in Bukhari our Noble Nabi SallAllahu alaihi wasallam was covered in a green square garment upon his death. A tradition many follow to this day with the Mayit draped in a green cloth as they are carried to their grave.

Allah Ta’ala refers many times to the lush qualities of green for us to reflect upon:

And with Him are the keys of the unseen treasures– none knows them but He; and He knows what is in the land and the sea, and there falls not a leaf but He knows it, nor a grain in the darkness of the earth, nor anything GREEN nor dry but it is all in a clear book.  (6:59)

And He it is Who sends down water from the cloud, then We bring forth with it buds of all plants, then We bring forth from it GREEN foliage. (6:99)

Do you not see that Allah sends down water from the cloud so the earth becomes GREEN? Surely Allah is Most Kind, Aware.  (22:63)

All the signs of spring are further enhanced and magnified by his SallAllahu alaihi wasallam light dispersing The Light of Allah Ta’ala. The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam is an object of Allah Ta’ala’s action, with every action being of His Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala’s Essence, An-Nur being one of His Divine Attributes.

Monday was the day Allah Ta’ala created green vegetation, and Monday was the day He blessed this world with the birth of Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Allah Ta’ala chose this verdant season of spring for His Light to be made manifest on earth.

Green vegetation and light; the two intrinsically interwoven forces the Creator has bestowed upon us as our life force, the synergism of the secret of life on earth, the source of the air we breathe and the food we eat, SubhanAllah! Without this combination there is no earthly existence. Similarly, without the combination of the light of Allah Almighty’s blessed Spring Gift SallAllahu alaihi wasallam,  a Mercy to the Worlds, and without us actualizing the message he bequeathed us, then our soul is spiritually bereft of the Light which transforms our soul.

A soul with the natural disposition of yearning to be,

Reclining on GREEN cushions and beautiful carpets.  (55:76)

A soul desirous of,

..gardens of perpetuity beneath which rivers flow, ornaments shall be given to them therein of bracelets of gold, and they shall wear GREEN robes of fine silk and thick silk brocade interwoven with gold… (18:31)  (76:21)

May we nurture the essence of an eternal spring in our hearts wherever we may be. 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.