This is the LAST entry with blogsome!!!
I have MIGRATED to
Insha’Allah you update bookmarks etc.
Wassalamu alaikum
almiskeenah
November 10, 2008
migration!
October 6, 2008
Eesh launik?
In the name of Allah, the Merciful, the Compassionate.
Praise is to Him who guided the believers to the truth.
And may His blessings and salutations be upon Mohammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.
Assalamu alaikum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuhu
Eesh launik? (what colour are you? This version being addressed to a female) is village Bedu parlance. Repeatedly asked throughout a conversation. Over and over and over again.
This speck’s colour is a bilious green at the moment…in great need of your Adiyah to help get it back to a reasonable human shade, Insha’Allah. Hence this long absence. The many planned posts slipped into some murky space that defines a fuzzy head. Khair.
Briefly….until a shine and some ‘demuddling’ is sprinkled this way….
· Insha’Allah, you are taking advantage of the SHAWWAL SPECIAL OFFER!!!
· Two (1) inspiring Ramadhan pictorial retrospectives….to help nudge the nafs into maintaining some of the wonder of the month just gone forever.
· The changes fifty years can make…from ‘devil’s donkey’, to a monorail.
· A brilliant reminder, from a brilliant scholar, of the benefits in all that has been decreed for us all, Alhumdulillah.
May your ‘colour’ be bright, 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. May He accept our humble efforts and grant us the capacity to be good and do good. Ameen.
August 30, 2008
a new book
Shaykh Muhammad b. Yahya al-Ninowy’s words of praise for the recent publication of the translation of Imam ‘Abdullah Sirajuddin al-Husayni’s volume, Our Master Muhammad, SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, The Messenger of Allah, His Sublime Character and Exalted Attributes, leaves one eager to read this glowing work, extolling the virtues and perfection of the best of creation, SallAllahu alaihi wasallam:
‘It is as though the Shaykh (ra) was looking directly at the Messenger of Allah (asws) before him as he wrote, deriving his beautiful expressions from the light of his (asws) countenance, so that by divine providence his insight was opened, and he grazed in the pastures of subtle secrets, uncovering the beauty and perfection of the Messenger’s (asws) character, imbibing the fragrance of the Prophetic Sunnah, bathing in the light of the Muhhammadan reality and its meanings, and tasting of its fruits, and then gathering all of these illuminations in a work so noble and rarefied that it would not be surprising if it were to be read to a sick person and so cure him.’
I wanted to share the following from the chapter ‘His Eloquence and Wisdom’, as an excellent preparatory lesson for the heart and soul as we eagerly anticipate the arrival of the Mubarak month of Ramadhan.
The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam’s counsel which encompassed wisdom and manners.
Abi Dharr RadhiAllahu anhu said: ‘I said, “O Messenger of Allah, counsel me.” He said: “I counsel you to be conscious of Allah, for it will beautify your whole affair.” (In another narration: “For it is the head of the entire affair.”)
I said: “O Messenger of Allah, give me more.”
He SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: “Recite the Qur’an, and make remembrance of Allah Ta’ala, for it is remarked of you in the heavens, and a light for you on the earth.”
I said: “O Messenger of Allah, give me more.”
He SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: “Be silent often, for it casts Satan out, and It aids you in your religious affairs.”
I said: “O Messenger of Allah, give me more.”
He SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: “Beware of much laughter, for it kills the heart, and takes the light of the face.”
I said: “O Messenger of Allah, give me more.”
He SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: “Speak the truth, even if it is bitter.”
I said: “O Messenger of Allah, give me more.”
He SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: “Do not fear to face criticism in Allah’s cause.”
I said: “O Messenger of Allah, give me more.”
He SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: “Let what you know about yourself prevent you from (finding fault) in others.” (note: Narrated by Imam Ahmad, Tabarani, Ibn Hibban in his Sahih and Hakim [and the wording is his] who said: ‘Its chain is rigorously authentic.’ [Al-Targhib])
The narration in Ibn Hibban’s Sahih adds, after his SallAllahu alaihi words ‘beware of much laughter’:
I said: “O Messenger of Allah, give me more.”
He SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: “Perform Jihad, for it is monasticism of my community.”
I said: “O Messenger of Allah, give me more.”
He SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: “Love the poor, and sit with them.”
I said: “O Messenger of Allah, give me more.”
He SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: “Look at those who are lower than you (note: that is in worldly affairs) and do not look at those who are higher than you, for it will be better to facilitate your not taking Allah’s blessings upon you lightly.”
I said: “O Messenger of Allah, give me more.”
He SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: “Speak the truth, even if it is bitter.”
I said: “O Messenger of Allah, give me more.”
He SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: “Let that which you know about yourself prevent you from the people, (note: That is, let the faults that you know you have prevent you from speaking about others, and their deeds, for it is doubtful that you are free of defects like the defects of other people, or uglier, whether you recognize it or not. [Sharh al-Munawi] and do not take issue with what they do, (note: That is, do not be angry with them for what they do to you. [Sharh al-Munawi ‘ala al-Jami al-Saghir] it is enough of a defect that you should recognize in people that which you ignore in yourself.”
Tabarani’s narration has it: ‘”It is enough of a fault in a person that he has three attributes: he recognizes in people that which he ignores in himself, and he is ashamed of them for that which he is also guilty of, and he is ashamed of then for that which he is also guilty of, and he harms his companions.” The Messenger of Allah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam then beat his hand on my (Abu Dharr’s) chest, and said: “O Abu Dharr, there is no intelligence like being prepared, and no piety like abstinence, (note: That is from that which the heart is troubled concerning its permissibility or impermissibility.) and there is no honour like good conduct.”’
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.
August 27, 2008
a stroll
SMILES…I thought that I would be spending days sorting out the copious mess I have made with the voluminous list of categories. Progress is happening behind the scenes with the ‘experts’ still mulling and advising, Alhumdulillah. So until I am occupied with attacking the task of changing things I thought I would quickly share some photos from this afternoon.
The building on the western edge of the courtyard. Imagine owning the apartment at the top. An uninterrupted view of the Dome of Contentment, SubhanAllah, as seen by turning 180 degrees, below.
The sky this afternoon was a threatening grey. Such a contrast to the usual rich vivid blue. The air still and humid with a biting, head exploding temperature.
Rolls of cleaned carpets are regularly wheeled across the courtyard from a storage area behind the above building, routinely replacing thousands. New carpets were recently layed throughout the Masjid, including the green ones in Rowdha Shareef.
I needed to go to one of the many bookshops located in the buildings around Haram and was amused by this cover! Some one being ‘creative’, adding a niqab! Reminding of a blog I read yesterday by American Bedu on censorship within the Kingdom. A very lively debate ensued via the comments.
The censorship of images is one thing, but it is the range of titles that are banned that irks me. All stores have a very limited selection, and only ‘approved’ publishers are permitted. There are hundreds of excellent texts throughout the Islamic world that should be made available here. Insha’Allah the Light emanating from the Noble Resident of the Dome of Peace SallAllahu alaihi wasallam will once again penetrate and illuminate minds. 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.
August 18, 2008
zamzam
We made every living thing from water.. (21:30)
Alhudulillah through the mercy and generosity of Allah Ta’ala, the miraculous Zamzam that Muslims cherish is made available in Madinah. Tankers travel from Makkah daily, supplying the thousands of containers inside Masjid an-Nabawi, as well as the distribution station located at the North West corner of the courtyard. People line up for hours in the searing sun.
They come with trolleys, on bicycles, with baby strollers, piled high with 20 litre containers, to replenish their supply of this remarkable Ni’amah. The courtyard fences provide a secure place to chain containers until people can attend to the filling.
The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasllam said: "The best water on the face of the earth is the water of Zamzam; it is a kind of food and a healing from sickness."
"The water of Zamzam is for whatever it is drunk for."
" The most sublime of all earthly waters is that of zamzam;
therein one finds food for the hungry and medicine for the ill.”
"Zamzam water is what one intends to drink it for. When one drinks it to be healed, Allah heals him; when one drinks it to be full, Allah makes him full; and when one drinks it to quench his thirst, Allah quenches it. "
The Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum used to call it al-Shabbaa’ah, satisfying, and it helped them to care for their families as it was filling and nourishing for children when food was not so plentiful.
Scientific research has proven that Zamzam is unique in its natural characteristics as it is hard carbonated water, which is rich in beneficial natural elements that range are around 2000 mg per litre, while the same percentage in other kinds of well water does not exceed 260 mg per litre.
The chemical elements in Zamzam can be divided into firstly, positive ions like that of sodium (250 mg per litre), calcium (200 mg per litre), potassium (20 mg per litre), and magnesium (50 mg per litre). Secondly, negative ions like sulphur (372 mg per litre), bicarbonates (366 mg per litre) nitrates (273 mg per litre), phosphates (0.25 mg per litre) and ammonia (6 mg per litre).
The chemical elements in Zamzam can be divided into firstly, positive ions like that of sodium (250 mg per litre), calcium (200 mg per litre), potassium (20 mg per litre), and magnesium (50 mg per litre). Secondly, negative ions like sulphur (372 mg per litre), bicarbonates (366 mg per litre) nitrates (273 mg per litre), phosphates (0.25 mg per litre) and ammonia (6 mg per litre).
People require water for almost for everything but not all water carries the same value and significance. Muslims refer to the water of Zamzam as something revered and unique. They crave this mysterious liquid and love to drink it whenever they can. And for those who managed to go to the Hajj, they return home carrying it for thousands of miles as a prized possession and to give as special gift to their friends and families.
So what is so special about Zamzam water? In a word: Everything! There is nothing ordinary about it. The miracle of how it came to being in the middle of a desert, its consistency throught out 1000s of years, the beneficial qualities it has, the fact that it never dries up. This water is special.
The Zamzam Well is hand-excavated and is about 30.5 m deep, with an internal diameter ranging from 1.08 to 2.66 m. Hydrogeologically, the well lies within Wadi Ibrahim, which runs through the Holy City of Makkah.
A pumping test at 8000 liters/second for more than a 24 hour period showed a drop in water level from 3.23 meters below surface to 12.72 meters and then to 13.39 meters, after which the water level stopped receding. When pumping stopped, the water level recovered to 3.9 meters below surface only 11 minutes later.
This photo shows how a building was constructed over the place where the Zamzam Well is located. It was built during the era of Sultan `Abd Al-Hamid the Second in 1300 AH, engineered by As-Said Muhammad Sadiq.
A closer view of the building….
…and a detail of the elaborate faucet system….
…and one of the many designs built around the top of the Well when men manually drew the water with buckets and pulleys.
Eventually, during the modern era, the building of Zamzam was reconstructed but away from its original location since the old building that was located near the Ka`bah used to hinder Tawaf in the modern age because of the large number of the pilgrims. The water of Zamzam was conducted to its new location in the eastern part of the Sanctuary by way of engines for lifting water and pipes. There became an assigned place for men and another for women. Finally, it is worth mentioning that despite the passage of thousands of years on discovering the Well of Zamzam, its water remained and will continue to be a source of purity and cure.
Imam al-Shafi (Allah have mercy on him) said: I drank Zamzam water for three matters: For archery, and I would hit the target ten times out of ten or nine times out of ten, for knowledge, and I am as you see me, and for entering paradise, and I hope to attain this. More inspiring Zamzam accounts here.
Zamzamis distributed the water to people in and around the Holy Mosque. In the past, Zamzamis who formerly did this work had to go first to the sheikh who organized the flow of Zamzam. Each Zamzami — the person carrying Zamzam — got a specified amount of the water. The water was put into a container — girba — made of goatskin. They waited in specific locations inside the Holy Mosque where each Zamzami received the pilgrims.
And Zamzam available here.
May Allah bestow mercy on Hajar Alaihas Salam! Had she let the Zamzam flow without trying to control it or had she not scooped from that water to fill her water skin, Zamzam would have been a stream flowing on the surface of the earth. SubhanAllah!
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.
August 11, 2008
bread
BREAD…
Ayeshah RadhiAllahu anha says: "Till the demise of Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, his family never ate a full stomach of bread made of barley for two consecutive days". From the moving chapter on the bread of Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam in Tirmidhi’s Shamaa-il.
~*~
Nawfal ibn Ilyas al-Hathli narrated that Abdur Rahman ibn Awf RadhiAllahu anhu used to frequent his circle. One day, after sitting with him and with his guests for awhile, Abdur Rahman excused himself for a short while, he went to his house, took his ablution and when he returned, he brought back with him a large tray of bread and meat. When the tray was placed in the middle, Abdur Rahman cried, so the people asked him: “O Abu Muhammad, why are you crying like this?” he replied: “A thought came to me, and I suddenly remembered that Allah’s Messenger SallAllahu alaihi wasallam died having not satisfied his basic hunger or that of his family, not even eating just barley bread, and I do not think that Allah Almighty has kept us alive after him for better times than the days of His Messenger SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.”
~*~
My nafs are weak; unlike all these inspiring accounts and the devotion of Allama Sayyid Sharif al-Jurjani Rahmatullahi aliahi, a Hanafi scholar, who fasted every day and then only ate roasted barley, not even made into bread, for more than twelve years! One of the things my nafs crave is decent bread, which I was treated to during our recent visit to Oz. We actually packed two ‘bricks’ of a seven grain sour dough variety to come back with us. As the days drew closer to the last slice being consumed my motivation to rekindle the art of making bread was triggered. Over the years of being in this climate I have avoided the notion of having the oven on when the house is already an oven. But my nafs have won, with the first batch proving to be a tasty morsel even though I cannot get all the ingredients I previously was used to. Alhumdulillah that the traditional decades old bread tins miraculously made it here all those years ago. Admittedly they became the centre of an arm rest for the car after being padded with thick remnants, but once I made the decision to make bread I retrieved them and have since replaced them with another invention!
The kneading and pounding while in Dhikr for the Barakah brings much satisfaction. Insha’Allah one day all leads to a deeper relationship with the bread issue, as in these narrations, where the nafs no longer dictate. I wish. Meanwhile it does not just stop at the bread, but the addition of a lavish spread of the raw honey that accompanied the bread in the suitcase is very very yum! I have a long way to go!
Salim ibn ‘Abdullah RadhiAllahu anhu narrated that Umar RadhiAllahu anhu said: “By Allah, we do not care much for the pleasures of this world. We ask for the most inferior of goats to be prepared for food when we are hungry, and we ask for wheat husk and oats’ pith to be grounded for our bread, and we prefer raisins for our vinegar. We want to save our pleasures and comfort for the Hereafter, for we have heard Allah Almighty say:
You have wallowed in your satisfaction during your life in the world and sought comfort therein. (46:20)
~*~
Ja’far ibn Muhammad ibn al-Fadhl narrated that Uthman RadhiAllahu anhu used to feed the people the best of food, and later on, he would enter his house to partake of a modest meal of some bread which he dipped in a little oil and vinegar.
~*~
Abi Burda narrated that when Abu Musa al-Ashari RadhiAllahu anhu was dying, he called his children to his bedside and said to them: “My dear children! Remember the story of ‘The Man with a Loaf of Bread.’ Listen carefully to his story: Once upon a time there lived a man in a hermitage who for seventy years had dedicated his entire existence to worshipping Almighty Allah, and he only left his cell one day a week to acquire his basis needs. One day while in the market, Shaytan made an attractive woman steal his attention, whereupon he was lured to be with her for seven days and seven nights. On the seventh day, the veil of darkness that had shrouded his clarity was lifted, and the man left repenting to Allah Almighty. With every step he took he prayed and prostrated to Allah, ashamed of himself, fearful of the consequences of his sin, and he kept on imploring for forgiveness. By nightfall his steps led him to a shop, near which sat twelve paupers.
In that town, there lived a monk who daily sent these twelve paupers a loaf of bread each. That night, his servant carried the twelve loaves of bread and brought them for distribution, and in the dark, the servant distributed a loaf of bread for each indigent, and when he reached the extra man who sat in their midst, not counting their number, the servant thought him to be one of the indigents, and handed him a loaf of bread. As he was leaving, the one pauper who did not receive his share for that night said, ‘Why have you not given me my usual loaf of bread? You have not done that before!’ The servant who had not realized what had happened became upset, replying, ‘Do you think that I have kept anything away from you, or do you think I have kept it for myself? Ask around you, did I give any one sitting here two loaves of bread instead of one?’ They all replied no. The servant then said, ‘You are probably accusing me of keeping it for myself! I swear by Allah that I will not give you anything for tonight.’ Immediately the repenting man revealed what had happened and he handed his loaf of bread over to the person who did not get his share for the night.
By sunrise the repenting man was found dead in the street near that shop. When the Angels came and weighed his deeds, the seventy years of worship he had offered did not measure up to the weight of his sin during the last seven nights of his life, but when the Angels weighed the sin of the last seven nights and his last peace offering of the single loaf of bread he gave to that pauper, his charity weighed heavier, and thus he was saved from eternal damnation.”
~*~
One day two holy men came to visit Rabi’a, hoping to get something to eat; they were sure that whatever food she gave them would be ritually pure since it was “obtained in a lawful manner.”
After they had seated themselves, a cloth containing tow loaves of bread was laid before them. Eagerly they reached for the food.
But before they could get it to their mouths, a hungry beggar appeared at the door. Rabi’a immediately gave him both loaves of bread.
This really bothered the two holy men, but they kept it to themselves.
Pretty soon a slave girl arrived, carrying a load of freshly baked bread. “My mistress sent this.:
Rabi’a counted the loaves. “I don’t think so,” she said. “There are only eighteen here.” Protets, denials, whatever the girl said, Rabi’a would not believe her.
(What’d happened was that the slave girl had taken two loaves for herself.)
So she went away and came back with the full twenty loaves. Rabi’a counted them again: “That’s more like it.”
So Rabi’a served the hungry holy men with twenty loaves instead of two. They were really baffled. “Two loaves, no loaves, twenty loaves, what does it all mean?” they asked.
“As soon as I saw you,” said Rabi’a, “I could tell you were hungry. Two little loaves of bread, how could that be enough for two holy men? Then I remembered the Promise: ‘You give one; I give ten.’ So I gave two to the beggar.
“But when only eighteen came back, I knew that there was either something wrong with my prayer, or that somebody had sticky fingers.”
Rabi’a al-Adawiyya
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.
June 9, 2008
home appreciation day
SewQ (who also happens to blog at Islamic Homeschool Diary) initiated a ‘home appreciation day’ for today, with the idea of sharing what we love in our home. It doesn’t have to be picture perfect - just images of things you love in your home.
My contributions are far from picture perfect, but then this home is far from what the average definition of what the word ‘home’ is. When one feels that ‘home’ is the realm of the Hereafter, then why so much attention on appearances and fancy frills in this temporary prison cell of Dunya? Besides, I am within walking distance of our Beloved Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam who lived in a mud huts with dried palm leaves as a ceiling so low he could touch it. Doors were rough woven sheets and animal hides, windows high small openings in the walls, which once when Sayyidatuna Aishah RadhiAllahu anha placed a curtain over one was told to remove it as our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam was distracted by the pattern. He, SallAllahu alahi wasallam slept on palm mats, drank from water skins and ate from clay utensils. They did not have running water, kitchens or bathrooms, or whirring air conditioners for cooling. This is a palace compared to the noble housing then. A palace that once this speck may be dipped in Jannah, Insha’Allah Ameen Ameen Ameen, for a mere nano second its rustic features will be erased from memory. And if A’oudhabiLlah, this speck may be dipped in Jahannam then whatever luxury there may have been will also be permanently deleted. SubhanAllah.
The front door, offering privacy and security. I imagine this building was quite a mansion in its day, with the design greatly admired. All the doors in this much loved home have the markings of ‘attacks’. Times when the locks j-a-m s-h-u-t….
….as was the drama with this one. We had been here for only a few months and this speck was alone in the house for a few days. I used to use this room for drying the washing as there is no access to an outdoor area. At the time all washing was done by hand, and being a strenuous task the manner of dress was to say the least, skimpy. I had just taken a tub full of dripping things to hang when somehow this door SHUT! I was LOCKED in this small room knowing that ‘help’ was far away. I contemplated my options…jump from the first floor, and then what…skimpy attire and all….sit it out….it was the height of summer, already perspiring profusely..I could suck the moisture from the clothes…but how would I do Wudhu…my Salat…a wire coat hanger was all I had…so I began ‘operating’. Fortunately like most of the doors here, the wood was soft and pliable. Hours later with chips littering the floor I was out! Alhumdulillah. The next urgent task was to render all remaining locks on all other doors useless! Duct tape is a great asset, not only for this job of unique decorative details but for patching where termites have been banqueting! I was surprised when the door had to be refitted sometime later that the carpenter so skillfully added a new panel, relinquishing all the visible signs of my gouging with the coat hanger to the rubbish…it was very artistic!
I seemed to have inherited a paternal habit for recycling…this was a friends discarded dress, temporarily serving the purpose of a bathroom window curtain…until the fierce sunlight shreds it like previous ones. Most ‘curtains’ in this home are ‘have been something’.
Splashes of colour and flashes of retrospection…from Nana’s crock, to Dad’s Seafood Downunder cookbook, a Quetta cozy and Guatemala bag….all precious items Al-Wahhab, the Supreme Prison Warden Subhanahu wa Ta’ala has deemed to be in this home.
Alhumdulillah for boxes and books and for assorted offcuts of timber. Alhumdulillah for walls that exude the generosity of others, linking hearts, and Alhumdulillah for accepting functionality over appearances….for things that inspire and magnetize one to heights and goals beyond paint-flaking walls…
Alhumdulillah for reminders of all the Mubarak places our Blessed Al-Mustafa SallAllahu alaihi wasallam trod. For a gifted Hilya espousing his SallAllahu alaihi wasallam Mubarak qualities. For the Sunnah of hanging a rod (except I choose a wooden spoon) in the home! Recently whilst visiting another sister here I saw a rod hanging by her book case. Upon asking if it was decoration or if it was used I was told in no uncertain terms that it was very active at Fajr time for her boys…not the girls!
Alhumdulillah for what little light…..SUBHANALLAH….you would not believe that as I was typing this very sentence the power went off!! This is when I think I am actually living in a cave as it is so dark without lights on even during the day…and now I am super sticky without the AC for more than an hour…Alhumdulillah ala kulli hal. Made me realize just how much is taken for granted about our homes and the conveniences we have. SubhanAllah.
So….I was about to say…Alhumdulillah for the little light that filters through this frosted glass. I love the patterns, I love thinking about the skills and techniques Allah Ta’ala has blessed mankind with in making all these things…I think about the one who painted this in such haste…not caring about the dribbles running all over the place…he was in Madinah! Does anything else matter? Maybe he was so engrossed in his Salawaat that such finer details were irrelevant…maybe he was so happy to simply be employed. This job may have meant meals for his family. Alhumdulillah for the faded wooden shutters blocking out some of the heat…..
Alhumdulillah for these dusty screens…blocking out all manner of creepy crawlies….yes, they are about, but Alhumdulillah not on the INSIDE!!! Alhumdulillah for the sounds that waft through this one and only open window from the Madrassah opposite…dulcet tones reach the depths of my heart for most of the day, Alhumduilillah….
Alhumdulillah for this prisoners wardrobe….muted tones to help suppress the nafs whilst attempting to ‘do time’ as instructed.
Once Al-Hassan RadhiAllahu anhu was dresed in finery and riding an elegant horse in the streets of Madinah when a Jew came to him asking if this Dunya is meant to be a prison for the Mu’min why is that you are wearing such elaborate clothing and I am so miserable. Al-Hassan RadhiAllahu anhu replied that all you see on me is my prison, while all your misery is your Paradise compared to what will follow!
Alhumdulillah ala kulli hal…. enough for now…I am off to visit my Beloved Neighbour SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, and if for nothing else this is why I love and appreciate this humble home.
O Allah! Bless Muhammad, the family of Muhammad, his Companions, his children, his household, his progeny, his bleoved, his followers, his supproters, and all of us with them, O Merciful of the merciful. 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.
June 4, 2008
maghrib’s arrival
From Asr to Esha today.
Today’s Salatul Maghrib here and here
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.
June 3, 2008
opened doors
doors open: dome verdurous
apparitions of distorted imperfections
weave a haze.
squinting through a fractured diamond
shards glint
making the word ‘forbidden’
ripple into an abstract symbol
of an angel’s wing flicking a mirror lake.
Alhumdulillah Alhumdulillah Alhumdulillah
for transitional shifts cavorting deep in the soul.
otherwise
how could I keep returning
to be told forbidden, forbidden, forbidden?
abrupt jack hammer repetition
in unison with black fingers rummaging
eyes glaring.
a world stricken with obstacles
so we learn patience.
encased in the husk of burdens
are seeds of blessings
capable of sprouting in a marbled plaza
as luminous pearl drops
colouring existence
while grace crushes words.
emotions percolate
refining the harshness of a moment
by wrinkled lips murmuring
nectar threaded symphonies.
magically all jarring jangling
becomes a humming
scooped by celestials elegant
a delirious myriad gliding
with secrets entwined in silken shawls to
doors open: dome verdurous
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.
May 18, 2008
sweet Madinah
Infectious…addictive..repetitive…quirky…passionate…Sweet Madinah, (#4) an old favourite antidote for those things that irritatingly creep into neglected spaces of the heart, niggled by the myriad of petty irks and distractions. I have had a few lately… but thought the wiser of publishing the list I had compiled, however it did include telephone line hassles, hence my absence.
How is beautiful Madinah, very very good Madinah,My choice is Madinah, How fine is Madinah,
I can tell about Madinah, We can tell about Madinah
Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely (x2)
Give me a chance to go to Madinah,
Give me a chance to go to Madinah,
Our heart say to us go to Madinah,
Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely (x2)
So appealing is Madinah, So alluring is Madinah,
So enchanting is Madinah, So attracting is Madinah,
So loving is Madinah, So loving is Madinah,
So charming is Madinah,
Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely (x2)
Give me a chance to go to Madinah,
Our heart say to us go to Madinah,
Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely (x2)
So appealing is Madinah, So alluring is Madinah,
So enchanting is Madinah, So attracting is Madinah,
So loving is Madinah, So loving is Madinah,
So charming is Madinah,
Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely (x2)
Everyone’s eyes say their place is Madinah,
Everyone’s eyes say their place is Madinah,
Each and every heart is saying Madinah,
Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely (x2)
Quite nice is Madinah, Quite clear is Madinah,
Quite fine is Madinah, Quite famous is Madinah,
Quite matchless is Madinah,
Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely (x2)
Everyone’s eyes say their place is Madinah,
Each and every heart is saying Madinah,
Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely (x2)
Quite nice is Madinah, Quite clear is Madinah,
Quite fine is Madinah, Quite famous is Madinah,
Quite matchless is Madinah,
Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely (x2)
Connect your heart to love the Madinah,
Connect your heart to love the Madinah,
Because no city is like Madinah,
Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely (x2)
Connect your heart to love the Madinah,
Because no city is like Madinah,
Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely (x2)
Much bright is Madinah, Much glean is Madinah,
Much clean is Madinah, Much prayer is Madinah,
Much holy is Madinah, Much kind is Madinah,
Sweeet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely (x2)
My wish is Madinah, My heart is Madinah,
My shelter is Madinah, My axis is Madinah,
My moon is Madinah, My soul is Madinah,
My heaven is Madinah,
Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely (x2)
Much clean is Madinah, Much prayer is Madinah,
Much holy is Madinah, Much kind is Madinah,
Sweeet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely (x2)
My wish is Madinah, My heart is Madinah,
My shelter is Madinah, My axis is Madinah,
My moon is Madinah, My soul is Madinah,
My heaven is Madinah,
Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely (x2)
We will be forgiven by Muhammad,
We will be forgiven by Muhammad,
Kamal’s wish is to die in Madinah,
Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely (x3)
We will be forgiven by Muhammad,
Kamal’s wish is to die in Madinah,
Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely (x3)
How is beautiful Madinah, Very very good Madinah,
My choice is Madinah, How fine is Madinah,
I can tell about Madinah, we can tell about Madinah,
Such a beautiful Madinah,
Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely,
Very lovely, very lovely, very lovely….
Such a beautiful Madinah,
Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, Sweet Madinah, very lovely,
Very lovely, very lovely, very lovely….
Sallallahu ‘alaa Muhammad Sallallahu ‘alaihi wa Sallim Yaa Nabi Salaam ‘alaika
Yaa Rasul Salaam ‘alaika Yaa Habib Salaam ‘alaika Salawatullah ‘alaika.
Yaa Rasul Salaam ‘alaika Yaa Habib Salaam ‘alaika Salawatullah ‘alaika.
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 1, 2008
a description of Paradise
Sharing…
a Description of Paradise
Ibn al-Qayyim Rahimahullaah said, in regards to the description of the Paradise and the delights that it contains:
And if you ask about its ground and its soil, then it is of musk and saffron.
And if you ask about its roof, then it is the Throne of the Most Merciful.
And if you ask about its rocks, then they are pearls and jewels.
And if you ask about its buildings, then they are made of bricks of gold and silver.
And if you ask about its trees, then it does not contain a single tree except that its trunk is made of gold and silver.
And if you ask about its fruits, then they are softer than butter and sweeter than honey.
And if you ask about its leaves, then they are softer than the softest cloth.
And if you ask about its rivers, then there are rivers of milk who’s taste does not change, and rivers of wine that is delicious to those who drink it, and rivers of honey that is pure, and rivers of water that is fresh.
And if you ask about their food, then it is fruits from whatever they will choose, and the meat of whatever birds they desire.
And if you ask about their drink, then it is Tasneem, ginger, and Kaafoor.
And if you ask about their drinking cups, then they are crystal-clear and made of gold and silver.
And if you ask about its shade, then a fast rider would ride in the shade of one of its trees for a hundred years and not escape it.
And if you ask about its vastness, then the lowest of its people would have within his kingdom and walls and palaces and gardens the distance that would be travelled in a thousand years.
And if you ask about its tents and encampments, then one tent is like a concealed pearl that is sixty miles long.
And if you ask about its towers, then they are rooms above rooms in buildings that have rivers running underneath them.
And if you ask about how far it reaches into the sky, then look at the shining star that is visible, as well as those that are far in the heavens that the eyesight cannot possibly reach.
And if you ask about the clothing of its inhabitants, then they are of silk and gold.
And if you ask about its beds, then its blankets are of the finest silk laid out in the highest of its levels.
And if you ask about the faces of its inhabitants and their beauty, then they are like the image of the Moon.
And if you ask about their age, then they are young ones of 33 years in the image of Adam, the father of humanity.
And if you ask about what they will be hearing, then it is the singing of their wives from among the Hoor al-’Ayn, and better than that are the voices of the Angels and the Prophets, and better than that is the Speech of the Lord of the Worlds.
And if you ask about their servants, then they are young boys of everlasting youth who resemble scattered pearls.
And if you ask about the Day of Increase (in reward) and the visit of the all-Mighty, all-Wise, and the sight of His Face - free from any resemblance or likeness to anything - as you see the Sun in the middle of the day and the full Moon on a cloudless night, then listen on the day that the caller will call: ‘O People of Paradise! Your Lord - Blessed and Exalted - requests you to visit Him, so come to visit Him!’ So they will say: ‘We hear and obey!’
Until, when they finally reach the wide valley where they will all meet - and none of them will turn down the request of the caller - the Lord - Blessed and Exalted - will order His Chair to be brought there. Then, pulpits of light will emerge, as well as pulpits of pearls, gemstone, gold, and silver. The lowest of them in rank will sit on sheets of musk, and will not see what those who are on the chairs above them are given. When they are comfortable where they are sitting and are secure in their places, and the caller calls: ‘O People of Paradise! You have an appointment with Allaah in which He wishes to reward you!’ So they will say: ‘And what is that reward? Has He not already made our faces bright, made our scales heavy, entered us into Paradise, and pushed us away from the Fire?’
And when they are like that, all of a sudden a light shines that encompasses all of Paradise. So, they raise their heads, and, behold: the Compeller - Exalted is He, and Holy are His Names - has come to them from above them and majestified them and said: ‘O People of Paradise! Peace be upon you!’ So, this greeting will not be responded to with anything better than: ‘O Allaah! You are Peace, and from You is Peace! Blessed are You, O possessor of Majesty and Honor!’ So the Lord - Blessed and Exalted - will laugh to them and say: ‘O People of Paradise! Where are those who used to obey Me without having ever seen Me? This is the Day of Increase!’
So, they will all give the same response: ‘We are pleased, so be pleased with us!’ So, He will say: ‘O People of Paradise! If I were not pleased with you, I would not have made you inhabitants of My Paradise! So, ask of Me!’ So, they will all give the same response: ‘Show us your Face so that we may look at it!’ So, the Lord - Mighty and Majestic - will remove his covering and will majestify them and will cover them with His Light, which, if Allaah - the Exalted - had not Willed not to burn them, would have burned them.
And there will not remain a single person in this gathering except that his Lord - the Exalted - will speak to him and say: ‘Do you remember the day that you did this and that?’ and He will remind him of some of his bad deeds in the Worldy life, so he will say: ‘O Lord! Will you not forgive me?’ So, He will say: ‘Of course! You have not reached this position of yours (in Paradise) except by my forgiveness.’
So, how sweet is this speech to the ears, and how cooled are the righteous eyes by the glance at His Noble Face in the Afterlife…
Some faces that Day will be shining and radiant, looking at their Lord…
(al-Qiyaamah:22-3)
From the amazing and beautiful book Haadi al-Arwaah ilaa Bilaad il-Afraah by Ibn al-Qayyim, pg. 193, passed on from an amazing and beautiful sister, JazakiLlahu khairan katheeran.
SWOON….truly….SWOON….sit and share this with your children, family, friends, neighbours, colleagues, print and pass on with a smile and a tear! SubhanAllah. May we all meet in this Garden of Eternal Happiness and Extreme Bliss, Ameen Ameen Ameen.
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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.
February 9, 2008
tagged
I have been TAGGED by Sister Suhaa another Madanian neighbour of our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam!
Rules:
1. Pick up the nearest book (of at least 123 pages)
2. Open the book to page 123
3. Find the 5th Sentence.
4. Post the next 3 sentences
5. Tag 5 people
Memories of childhood ‘tag’ began to play on my inner screen, except we used to call it ‘tiggy’. Red brick Victorian school buildings, huge scented peppercorn trees, secret hiding places behind bike sheds with squeals, laughter and of course squabbles, poured from the massive cob-webbed filing cabinet. Amazing how small triggers unlock such treasures; rolling waves of scenes upon images of friends, family, events, chanting haunting refrains from long ago.
Now we have a cyber tag version…minus the conviviality of human interaction as we sit glued to a buzzing box controlling and luring us into a mesmerizing hypnotism! And thus the definition of fun is metamorphosed.
Anyway…I have digressed…the dilemma before even beginning was with rule #1!
I was in my cosy little book nook where I feel hugged by so many volumes along with the ever expanding cyber library glowing in the space in front of me wondering which book qualifies as being the nearest to me? Thinking, do I manipulate the rules to make this exercise more interesting? Because if we look at the bare instructions the results would be minimal. I assume part of the sphere of this tag is what additions are added to elaborate and give substance to the limited three sentence quote?
I had been searching for a particular Durood from The Key to Arriving at the Door of the Messenger, so I accepted that this was the closest book at the time…with the following text appearing as the requested 3 sentences:
“When the faqih, Ba Jubayr returned from India, he found that the Imam was established in all the sciences, and that his knowledge was immeasurable. Hence he felt no shame in seeking knowledge from a man who was once his student. Not only faqih Ba Jubayr, but also many shuyukh sought knowledge with the great Imam.”
The Imam referred to here is Imam ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Alawi ibn Muhammad al-Haddad Rahmatullah alaihi, the Sufi Sage of Arabia, whose lineage is traced back to our Noble Nabi SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Imam al-Hadad was born (1044AH/1632CE-1132AH/1720CE) raised and spent most of his life in Tarim, in the Hadramaut valley.
His literary works are distinctive by their conciseness and brevity, conveying the essence of the inward and the outward teachings of the Qur’an and the Sunnah.
Such is this succinct excerpt from ‘The Gift of Imam al Haddad’ from the Chapter: Tenets of Faith.
Do the Obligatory [Fardhu],
Improve on it with the Supererogatory [Sunnat].
Add Reflection [Wird],
And Remembrance [Zikr],
To improve on it.
While his Love for the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam impassions the heart….."the obligation due to him is the greatest after that of Allah; and the adab with him the most emphasised of the adab and obediences. For whosoever loves him and immensely esteems him, he has indeed loved Allah and whosoever obeys him has indeed obeyed Allah."
Every aspect of the Imam’s life was an invitation to Allah Ta’ala, he would invite with his speech, his books, his teachings, his character, his actions, his worship and his exertion in helping people. He would often utter the words of his grandfather, our Esteemed Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam in reference to the times of duress at the hands of people towards him: "The believer who interacts with people and forebears when they cause him harm is better than he who does not interact with the people and is not patient when they harm him."
All of his actions were in complete emulation of the Messenger of Allah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam; his standing throughout the night, his worship, devotions, determination and characteristics. He was described as extremely fearful of Allah Ta’ala, always in reference and awe of Him, and readily inclined to tears.
He would say, "In all our affairs we rely on Allah, His Generosity and His Bounties. By the praise of Allah, we spend from the treasuries of His Generosity and spending from it does not worry us, rather keeping it does."
"The Eulogy by Mawlana al-Haddad Engraved Inside The Blessed Room Of The Prophet" has 41 verses all of which rhyme in the letter "Ba", praising the Holy Prophet Sallallahu ‘alaihi wa Sallam. Each verse contains the teachings of one or more verses of the Holy Qur’an Karem or the blessed Hadith Shareef. The following, from here, are the last 14 verses containing salawaat and salaams which many recite when they visit our Blessed Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.
Allah’s blessings be on you O the best one to have recited
The shining Book which came with the obligatory and the voluntary
Allah’s blessings be on you O the best of the rightly guided
Guiding with the Light of Allah in the east and the west
Allah’s blessings be on you O the best inviter to Allah with kindness
Then, (against those in battle) with spears and swords
Allah’s blessings be on you O master who travelled by night
To Allah until he passed the seven heavens and all the veils
And your position of (a distance of two bow lengths) "or even less"
Is enough exaltation and a gallery so high as to vie with the stars
Allah’s salutations be on you as long as a sincere person
Says to you: "Allah and Mustafa are sufficient for me"
Allah’s salutations be on you as long as dawn breaks
And you quicken the souls of loving disciples with nearness
Allah’s salutations be on you as long as lightening flashes
And birds chirp on branches of trees
Allah’s salutations be on you as long as camel drivers
Move hearts (of people in their caravan) to your wealth with yearning and love
Allah’s salutations be on you as many times as the number of plants
And grains of sand and the number of rain drops in a downpour
Allah’s salutations be on you; you are our only helper
In prosperity and poverty, in ease and difficulty
Allah’s salutations be on you, you are our beloved
And our master, our treasure, O the best of the Prophets
Allah’s salutations be on you, you are our leader
And our master, and treasure and helper in problems
And blessings on you from Allah for ever and ever
And salutations O chosen one, and on your family and companions.
And a wealth of more on Imam al-Haddad Rahmatullah alaihi here.
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And to the most difficult part,#5; whose screen to intrude upon in this cyber game of ‘tiggy’? I chose the following from the very limited blogs I visit, so…..
Dear Irving Darvish for the incredible uncanny eyes wide open surprises he posts that launch me way back in time when my search for TRUTH led me across wild and wonderful terrain, like the Tao.
Southern Muslimah for her friendly and vibrant ‘welcome mat’ one seems to step on when entering her space.
Dear Sister Maliha for her ‘bibliophilic’ lightness, painting lyrical canvases with melodious words.
Dear Qalballah with her inspiring diversity of talents, the major one being her love of her lap being the the chosen Madrassah for her two boys.
And Sketched Soul, Sister Farhana, who devotes time and energy looking after the needs of those less fortunate, as well as engaging sharing projects that enhance the love between sisters across the globe.
Insha’Allah forgive me one and all for ‘tigging’ you! May we all be ‘tagged’ on THAT DAY by Allah Ta’ala to be selected amongst those to enter His Subhanahu wa Ta’ala Garden, Ameen.
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Report on our collective Durood effort: JazakumuLlahu khairan to those who contributed. Alhumdulillah we did not quite make the 10,000, but crossed the more than half way mark. Insha’Allah our intentions are accepted and may we be that much further removed from the Fire, that much more forgiveness bestowed upon us and that much more Iman written for us at the time of our death, according to the narration we were following. Ameen Ameen Ameen. Maybe we will work towards a different goal next time. This made me feel so humble to those great Awliyah who reach thousands of Durood each day, SubhanAllah.
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.
November 23, 2007
qasas al-Madinah
Qasas al-Madinah by Imam Sarnubi
Translated by Sheikh Waleed whilst in Madinah during the Rihla 2007 program.
This is a unique and special collection of Qasas.
· Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam was created from the Mubarak earth of Madinah.
· Madinah contains the greatest place in the world, the most virtuous place is the grave of Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.
· Many of the Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum are buried in Madinah, including the wives and daughters of our Noble Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. By virtue of these people Madinah is blessed. They are the best of the first generation of Muslims, which is the most blessed generation.
· The Shuhadah from the Battle of Uhud are buried in Madinah.
· Allah Ta’ala chose Madinah for the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam to migrate to, to establish the Islamic State and to be buried in this Mubarak soil. We should have a deep feeling of awe in our heart for Madinah, and if we cannot be with these noble people, then the least we can do is to strive to be like them.
· Allah Ta’ala chose the Ansar RadhiAllahu anhum to help the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, giving him protection, refuge and sanctuary.
· People embraced Islam before the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam arrived in Madinah. Bayah, the Pledge was from the people of Madinah, and they came to Islam, not by the sword or under duress, but by the virtue of the Qur’an, the main vehicle of Da’wah, and the Akhlaq of the few Muslims they had met.
· Before the conquest of Makkah it was obligatory for Muslims to make Hijrah. No other city was populated due to this reason. Those who migrated to Madinah were not to return to Makkah.
· The most noble from this Ummah will be resurrected on the Day of Judgement from Madinah.
· Some of the names of Madinah are found in the Qur’an. And Madinah is referred to ‘ard, earth, the ‘ardAllah (in grammatical terms this is ‘idafa) Allah Ta’ala refers to Madinah as Allah’s Earth, or the earth of Allah.
· Allah Ta’ala willed that Madinah was founded on Haqq. Sheikh Waleed narrated the story of the Battle of BAdr. How some of the believers did not want to go once they discovered that the original plan to attack the lightly equipped caravan of Abu Sufyan was receiving extra support from Makkah when they found out they were to be attacked. The Muslims wanted the easiest fight, and showed less enthusiasm once they knew they would be outnumbered and the battle would be more difficult.
· Allah Ta’ala swears by Madinah in the Qur’an….I Swear by This City, Surah 90 Al-Balad. (My note: some commentators of the Qur’an state that this Surah refers to Maakh…I am merely relaying what was presented in the session with Sheikh Waleed’s translation of the mentioned text, and Allah The Almighty Knows Best.)
· And say (O Muhammad): My Lord! Let my entry (to the city of Al-Madinah) be good, and likewise my exit (from the city of Makkah) be good. And grant me supporting authority from You. (17:80) (and from another who was at this session: RasulAllah SalAllahu ‘alaihi wasallam said words to the effect that "If anyone heard the adhan and exits from Masjid al Nabvi without a need is close to a hypocrite"…)
· Madinah was referred to in the Torah as the City where Allah Ta’ala’s Mercy descended.
· The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam made the Du’a: O Allah! Make Madinah as beloved to us as You made Makkah beloved or more than that; make it conducive to health, and bless us in its Sa’ and its Mudd and transfer its fever to Juhfa.
· Whenever the Prophet returned from a journey he would stop outside, leave his mount and say, This is Taibah, expressing his joy and happiness upon returning to Madinah.
Imam Malik used to always do the same upon entering Madinah. Many previous scholars, due to utmost respect, would walk bare-footed once they entered the City proper.
· Du’a for Barakah, until today is being made at all the Mubarak places associated with our Noble Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. (update from another attendee at this session: There was not a place RasulAllah salAllahu alaihi wasallam passed but that he made dua for barakah.)
· The Haram area is sacrosanct. Sins committed in the holy confines are more grave than anywhere else, while Hasanat is multiplied by one thousand.
· The first Masjid to be erected in Islam is in Madinah, Quba Masjid. And the first Juma’ah ever prayed was at the site where Masjid Juma’ah is now, which originally was established by the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam with his own hands. Thus they were the first two places where Rasulullah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam established Qiblah.
· Some say that the Masjid of Taqwa referred to in the Qur’an refers not only to Quba, but also Masjid Nabawi, and Almighty Allah knows best.
Verily, the mosque whose foundation was laid from the first day on piety is more worthy that you stand therein (to pray). (9:108)
· Rowdha Mubarak, the Garden of Jannah is in Madinah. Some interpret this to mean that this section of earth will literally be transferred to Jannah on the Day of Judjement, it will find its place in Jannah. Others say that those who do good works there, then this will be the means of them entering Jannah, And Almighty Allah knows best.
· The corresponding place of the original Minbar in Masjid Nabawi will be the Hawd, the Prophet’s fountain on the Day of Judjement, where people will drink from after crossing the Sirat. (My note: other narrations say it will be upon a river from the rivers of Jannah, and that the steps of the Minbar shall be the steps to Jannah)
· Acts performed in the Haram area gain more Hasanah.
· The one who performs 40 Rak’ats in Masjid Nabawi will gain salvation from Jahannam, and from punishment and hypocrisy.
· Those who are in a state of Taharah as they walk to Masjid Nabawi every step is rewarded with Hasanah and sins are erased.
· Performing two Rak’ats in Masjid Quba is equal to performing Umrah.
· Fasting in Ramadhan in Madinah is as if one has fasted 1000 months, likewise attending Juma’ah is equivalent to attending 1000, and offering Salatul Janazah also equivalent to 1000. All acts similarly multiplied by 1000.
· One should exit Madinah only if for a pressing need, otherwise it is likened to nifaq.
· Ta’lim and Ta’lum in Masjid Nabawi carries great blessings. Some of the greatest scholars attended these Halaqas. Ayesha RadhiAllahu anha used to teach from behind a curtain from her room which is now part of the Masjid.
· O you who believe! Raise not your voices above the voice of the Prophet, nor speak aloud to him in talk as you speak aloud to one another, lest your deeds may be rendered fruitless while you perceive not. (49:2)
Insha’Allah extra Adab is required when in Madinah, increase reverence and respect for the entire City.
· The position of the Mihrab is 100% correct, as it was established by the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam himself.
· The blessed mountain of Uhud is within the sacred boundary of Madinah, the mountain that loves us, and we love it, and it is also from Jannah.
· The Valley of Aqeeq is also a Mubarak valley and from Jannah. The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam encouraged people to reside in Madinah, as well as encouring them to try and seek death here, as they then die as a Shaheed and intercession is granted for them.
SUBHANALLAH!
(If any from the Rihla who attended this session find mistakes in the above, or have additional notes, your comments would be appreciated. JazakumuLlahu khairan for those who have assisted with this post, may your love for the Prince of this Radiant City SallAllahu alaihi wasallam bring you to him, Ameen. And once again JazakiLlahu khairan to Asiyah for her bright, colourful depiction of Radiant Madinah on her creative prayer mat above!)
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.
May 26, 2007
your responses to a photo
A sharing…..
I invited some readers to share their responses to this photo. SubhanAllah! Heartfelt "JazakumuLlahu khairan" to you all for your time and precious thoughts.
“What to write, what to write? My heart aches at the sight of such a center of glowing Nur. It is as if the magnificent minarets are aglow seemingly feeding off the majestic power that must exist in that most blessed soil. As many Ulema have said time and time again; the most blessed soil, the most blessed piece of land anywhere in existence, is that piece of land housing Al Habib salallahualaihiwasalam. It is the city wherein the scout would go out daily, eagerly awaiting the arrival of The Beloved of Allah salallahualaihiwasalam and finally to the sounds of song and cheer were the Mercy to Mankind salallahualaihiwasalam and his companions from the hijrah to Medina, ushered in.
Now this is what those minarets seem to be, beacons, sending out signals generated from those hallowed grounds, calling out to all of mankind with the Hearts of the Believers replying to this call. Hearts yearning to walk those grounds, to sit in that mosque, to stand in reverence conveying salawaat and salams being in his proximity, salallahualaihiwasalam.
May Allah subhanawatala allow us to respond to this beacon and may He azawajal open up the avenues for us to all follow it back to the source, to our Beloved Rasul salallahualaihiwasalam. Ameen."
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Allahumma Salli ‘alaa Sayyidina Muhammadin wa anzilhul manzil-al muqarraba Yaum al Qiyaamah
O Allah! Bestow blessings upon Sayyidina Muhammad and give Him a place nearby on the Day of Judgement.
He attracts me because He wanted me to be attracted
He sought me because He wanted me to seek Him
He opened a way for me because He wanted me to pass through
He witnessed me because I could not witness Him
He found me to show me that I can never be lost
He is with me when I cannot be with Him
He loves me because He wants me to love Him
His love gave me felicity in my anonymity
He is the vision and I the horizon
I found Him everywhere without Him being there
I love Him
SallAllahu Alaihi Wasallam
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….the photograph is overwhelming. Upon it slowly opening up on my screen, i saw the minarets i
havent seen in person for a long time, the maghrib sunset is
so beautiful, ALHAMDULILLAH!!!!!!!!!!
I pray a day will come when the tears i am experiencing now staring at the
photo in thinking of Habibullah will be ones i feel every second of every
day for then i am truly in love with Allah SWT and His Beloved, ameen.
Shaykh Hamza on the weekend in Birmingham said how we should all strive to
read the seerah and learn everything about Mohammed SAW life and desire to
be sitting in his company, desire to see his smile, desire to follow his
every sunnah, ameen.
He SAW is the greatest gift to mankind, may we receive the true opening from
Allah the Kind, the Giver, the Generous to love His Beloved…………to
experience true mahabbah.
I love this feeling in my heart of love and heartache to be closer to the
best of Mankind, ameen.
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Long, slender lines
they look very beautiful
when they shine.
Perfect
Pastel colored sentinels
calling all to peace.
Pure, shining, beautiful.
when will I be called to come
joining in the hum
of forth flowing love?
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Allahu akbar…..as the pic was downloading and bit by bit it appeared, sky first, on my screen, all that came to mind, without even thinking, (and goosebumps on my arms!) was ALLAHUMMA SALLI ‘ALAA SAYYIDINA MUHAMMED WA ‘ALA ALI SAYYIDINA MUHAMMED WA ASHABIHI ALFA ALFA MARRAH!! repeatedly….and that was all! i just imagined what the original view, minus all these buildings might have been…the original masjidun nabawee sallallahu alayhiwasallam..roof of palm leaves etc..surrounded by the small houses of the azwaje mutahharaat??! the profound noor that must have emanated from this area, due to all its inhabitants with pure iman..breathtaking, mind boggling! that always just floods my mind whenever i see any pic of Madinah or musjidun nabawee sallallahu alayhi wasallam….
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Maghrib Symphony in Taqwa Major!
Cymbals crash,
a thundery pulse booms from the percussion instruments
orchestrated to accompany the falling sins as thousands wash, wipe, gargle and snuff
in preparation for meeting the One and Only to Whom we lower our lowly heads.
the strings hit notes of sublime majesty, coalescing with the celestial sounds of Angels’ wings
as they caress the Green Dome, dispatching Salam in numbers matching ocean bubbles,
to glide away with multifarious replies glittering as a concoction
of every shimmering dewdrop created, with the sparkle and twinkle
of the mass sum of constellations and the Milky Way.
thus is the lure of the Maghrib Symphony, played in Taqwa Major!
the lyrical grace notes suddenly slide into drums beating a marching, striding purposeful rhythm, mesmerizing and mobilizing feet of the devout.
wrinkled feet, white, black, brown feet. old, bare, painted, and stocking feet,
feet propelled; dusty feet, cracked feet, soft baby feet.
a maelstrom of patter, running, sauntering, shuffling magnetized momentum,
cymbals, timpani and tubular bells synchronize in surround sound.
the most blessed of earth records the identity of every present soul, witnessing.
every tiny pebble, every mote of dust, stretches of shiny marble, worn reflective concrete mirrors,
witnessing intentions of the reflective mirror of hearts protected in cages of ribs
as they beat on cue to an expected crescendo.
souls dance in anticipation of the ultimate bow of humility,
the bow to the unfurling of all veils
accompanied by a human chorus exalting …submitting.
a massed praising; a choral refrain of hushed mumbled glorifications
interspersed with delicate clicks of wood, stone, seeds and plastic.
the climax is imminent as sunlight weaves into twilight
sun slipping off stage behind a dusk curtain.
The Conductors baton is raised,
the giant tuning forks vibrate
the Universe vibrates……..
ALLAAHU AKBAR A -L -L –A-A–H- U A -K –B- A- R A -L -L –A-A –H- U A -K –B- A- R.
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Typical of the ummah today: dunya demands squeeze the Deen, the picture illustrates and conveys this meaning in an obvious way. The not so obvious is that the demands of dunya hide the objectives (the Green Dome) of our life, and we are deluded in calling what remains of Deen the whole Deen.
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I’m Going HOME!
I told you
I’m tired of this noise
Ambitions and choice
Of crime and deception
And participation
In a cold, everyday war
I’m homeless here!
I told you
I’m going HOME!
Home is with the white doves
Their freedom and dependence
I’m one of them
Home is on the off-white marble
A scorching fire
To burn my bare feet
A frozen iceberg
To numb my toes
A breath of Hellfire
A touch of Bliss
Home is at the Green Dome
That sparkles with the rays
Of the mid-day sun
I’m going HOME
To the golden chandeliers
The grey-white columns
The green Persian carpets
And empty walls
Cool, everlasting water for guests
I’m going HOME
Where my guardian
Rests at peace
A part of Paradise on earth
His grave is,
Full of musk, amber and rose petals
Smells that never cease
Tears of joy
A drum of a heart
To see again those minarets
Stand high
In the night
Radiant with light
I’m going HOME
Where it never rains
But MERCY,
Where I can only be at peace
Ahmad’s white palace
The sign of its gates reads.
The home of beggars and kings
Give me your hand
I’ll take you with me
As long as you promise
To REPENT
SUBMIT
OBEY and
DEFEND.
By a dear friend, sister Zaina Hafiz, and soon to return, Insha’Allah, Madania, check her recently published anthology.
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And gracious appreciation to Asiyah for sharing her colourful, expressive prayer mat!
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Insha’Allah, I intend to repeat such a sharing regularly. Let me know if you would like to participate.
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.
