WHAT IS ISLAM

Can we find an explanation of the great universe? Is there any convincing interpretation of the secret of existence? We realize that no family can function properly without a responsible head, that no city can prosperously exist without sound administration, and that no state can survive without a leader of some kind. We also realize that nothing comes into being on its own. Moreover, we observe that the universe exists and functions in the most orderly manner, and that it has survived for hundreds of thousand of years. Can we then say that all this is accidental and haphazard? Can we attribute the existence of man and the whole world to mere chance.Man represents only a very small portion of the great universe. And if he can make plans and appreciate the merits of planning, then his own existence and the survival of the universe must also be a planned policy. This means that there is an extraordinary power to bring things into being and keep them moving in order.In the world then must be a great force in action to keep everything in order. In the beautiful nature there must be a Great creator who creates the most charming pieces of art produces every thing for a special purpose in life. The deeply enlightened people recognize this creator and call him Allah "God". He is not a man because no man can create or make another man. He is not an animal, nor he is a plant. He is neither an Idol nor is He a statue of any kind because non of these things can make itself or create anything else. He is different from all these things because he is the maker and keeper of them all. The maker of anything must be different from and greater than things which he makes.There are various ways to know God "ALLAH'' and there are many things to tell about him. The great wonders and impressive marvels of the world are like open books in which we can read about God. Besides, God Himself comes to our aid through the many Messengers and revelations He has sent down to man. These Messengers and revelations tell us everything we need to know about God.The complete acceptance of the teachings and guidance of God 'Allah' as revealed to His Messengers Muhammad is the religion of Islam. Islam enjoins faith in the oneness and sovereignty of Allah, which makes man aware of meaningfulness of the Universe and of his place in it. This belief frees him from all fears and superstitions by making him conscious of the presence of the Almighty Allah and of man's obligations towards Him. This faith must be expressed and tested in actions, faith alone is not enough. Belief in one God requires that we look upon all humanity as one family under the universal Omnipotence of God the Creator and Nourisher of all. Islam rejects the idea of chosen people, making belief in God and good actions the only way to heaven. Thus, a direct relationship in established with God, without any intercessor.Islam is not a new religion. It is, in essence, the same message and guidance which Allah revealed to all Prophets. Adam, Noah, Abraham, Ismael, David, Moses and Jesus (PBUT). But the message which was revealed to Prophet Mohammed (PBUT) is Islam in its comprehensive, complete and final form.The Quran is the last revealed word of Allah and the basic source of Islamic teachings and laws. The Quran deals with the basis of creeds, morality, history of humanity, worship, knowledge, wisdom, God-man relationship, and human relationship in all aspects. Comprehensive teaching on which, can be built sound systems of social justice, economics, politics, legislation, jurisprudence, law and international relations, are important contents of the Quran. Hadith, the teachings, sayings and actions of Prophet Mohammed (PBUT), meticulously reported and collected by his devoted companions. Explained and elaborated the Quranic verses.THE FUNDAMENTAL ARTICLES OF FAITH IN ISLAMThe true faithful Muslim believes in the following Principal articles of faith:-1. He believes in One God 'Allah', Supreme and Eternal, Infinite and Mighty, Merciful and Compassionate, Creator and Provider.2. He believes in all Messengers of God without any discrimination among them. Every known nation had a warner or Messenger from God. They were chosen by God to teach mankind and deliver His divine message. The Quran mentions the name of twenty five of them. Among them Mohammad stands as the last Messenger and the crowning glory of the foundation of Prophethood.3. Muslin believes in all scriptures and revelations of God. They were the guiding light which the Messengers received to show their respected peoples the Right Path of God. In the Quran a special reference is made to the books of Abraham, Moses, David and Jesus. But long before the revelations has been lost or corrupted. The only authentic and complete book of God in existence in the Quran.4. The true Muslim believes in the Angels of Allah. They are purely spiritual and splendid beings whose nature requires on food, drink or sleep. They spend their days and nights in the worship of God.5. Muslim believes in the last Day of Judgement. This world will come to an end someday, and the dead will rise to stand for their final and fair trial. People with good records will be generously, rewarded and warmly welcomed to the Heaven of Allah, and those with bad records will be punished and cast into Hell.6. Muslim believes in the timeless knowledge of God and His power to plan and execute His planes and nothing could happen in His Kingdom against His will. His knowledge and power are in action at all times and command over His creation. He is wise and merciful, and whatever He does must have a meaningful purpose. If this is established in our mind and hearts, we should accept with good faith all that He does, although we may fail to under stand it fully, or think it is bad.THE FIVE PILLARS OF ISLAMFaith without actions arid practice is a dead end, as far as Islam is concerned. Faith by nature is very sensitive and can be most effective. When it is not out of practice or out of use, it quickly loses its liveliness and motivation power.There are five pillars of Islam:1. The declaration of faith: To bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and that Mohammad (PBUH) is His Messenger to all human beings till the Day of Judgment. The Prophethood of Mohammad obliges the Muslims to follow, His exemplary life as a model.2. Prayers: Daily, prayers are offered five times a day as a duty towards Allah. They strengthen and enliven the belief in Allah and inspire man to a higher morality. They purify the heart and prevent temptation towards wrong - doings and evil.3. Fasting the month of Ramadan. The Muslims during the month of Ramadan not only abstain from food, drink and sexual intercourse from dawn to sunset but also sincerity and devotion. It develops a sound social conscience, patience, unselfishness and will - Power.4. Zakkah: The literal and simple meaning of Zakkah is purity. The technical meaning of this word designates the annual amount in kind or coin which a Muslim with means must distribute among the rightful beneficiaries. But the religious and spiritual significance of Zakkah is much deeper and more lively. So it has humanitarian and sociopolitical values.5. Hajj (Pilgrimage to Makkah): It is to be performed once in a lifetime, if one can afford it financially and physically

What is the word of God about Jesus

What is the word of God about Jesus:A. Regarding Sonship of Jesus:That is Jesus, son of Mary, in word of truth, concerning which they are doubting. It is not for God to take a son unto Him. Glory be to Him! When He decrees a thing he but says to it "Be", and it is. (Qur'an 19:34,35).And they say, 'The All-merciful has taken unto Himself a son.' You have indeed advanced something hideous. The heavens are well nigh rent of it and the earth split asunder, and the mountains well nigh fall down crashing for that they have attributed to the All-Merciful a son; and it behoves not the All-Merciful to take a son. None is there in the heavens and earth but comes to the All-Merciful as a servant (Qur'an 19:88-93).Truly the likeness of Jesus, in God's sight, is as Adam's likeness; He created him of dust, then said He unto him, "Be", and he was. (Qur'an 3:59).People of the Book, go not beyond the bounds in your religion, and say not as to God but the Truth. The Messiah, Jesus, son of Mary, was only the Messenger of God, and His Word that He committed to Mary, and a spirit from Him. So believe in God and His Messengers. and say not, 'Three', Refrain, better is it for you. God is only One God. Glory be on Him - that He should have a son! To Him belongs that which is in the heavens and on the earth, God suffices for a guardian. (Qur'an 4:171)B. Regarding Jesus being God:And when God said. 'O Jesus son of Mary,did you say unto men, "Take me and my mother as gods, apart from God?" He Said, 'To You be Glory! It is not mine to say what I have no right to. If I indeed said it, You knew it, knowing what is within my soul, and I do not know what is within Your soul; You know the things unseen. I only said to them what You did command me: "Serve God, my Lord and your Lord." And I was a witness over them, while I remained among them; but when You did take me to Yourself the Watcher over them; You are the witness of everything. (Quran 5:116,117)C. Regarding Crucifiction of Jesus:And for their unbelief, and their uttering against Mary a mighty calumny, and for their saying, 'We slew the Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, the Messenger of God'...yet they did not slay him, neither crucified him, only a likeness of that was shown to them. Those who are at variance concerning him surely are in doubt regarding him, they have no knowledge of him, except the following of surmise; and they did not slay him of certainty... no indeed, God raised him up to Him; God is Almighty, All-Wise. There is not one of the people of the Book but will assuredly believe in him before his death, and on the Resurrection

THE FIVE PILLARS OF ISLAM

Faith without actions arid practice is a dead end, as far as Islam is concerned. Faith by nature is very sensitive and can be most effective. When it is not out of practice or out of use, it quickly loses its liveliness and motivation power.There are five pillars of Islam:The declaration of faith: To bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and that Mohammad (PBUH) is His Messenger to all human beings till the Day of Judgment. The Prophethood of Mohammad obliges the Muslims to follow, His exemplary life as a model. Prayers: Daily, prayers are offered five times a day as a duty towards Allah. They strengthen and enliven the belief in Allah and inspire man to a higher morality. They purify the heart and prevent temptation towards wrong - doings and evil. Fasting the month of Ramadan. The Muslims during the month of Ramadan not only abstain from food, drink and sexual intercourse from dawn to sunset but also sincerity and devotion. It develops a sound social conscience, patience, unselfishness and will - Power. Zakkah: The literal and simple meaning of Zakkah is purity. The technical meaning of this word designates the annual amount in kind or coin which a Muslim with means must distribute among the rightful beneficiaries. But the religious and spiritual significance of Zakkah is much deeper and more lively. So it has humanitarian and sociopolitical values. Hajj (Pilgrimage to Makkah): It is to be performed once in a lifetime, if one can afford it financially and physically

THE FUNDAMENTAL ARTICLES OF FAITH IN ISLAM

The true faithful Muslim believes in the following Principal articles of faith:-He believes in One God 'Allah', Supreme and Eternal, Infinite and Mighty, Merciful and Compassionate, Creator and Provider. He believes in all Messengers of God without any discrimination among them. Every known nation had a warner or Messenger from God. They were chosen by God to teach mankind and deliver His divine message. The Quran mentions the name of twenty five of them. Among them Mohammad stands as the last Messenger and the crowning glory of the foundation of Prophethood. Muslin believes in all scriptures and revelations of God. They were the guiding light which the Messengers received to show their respected peoples the Right Path of God. In the Quran a special reference is made to the books of Abraham, Moses, David and Jesus. But long before the revelations has been lost or corrupted. The only authentic and complete book of God in existence in the Quran. The true Muslim believes in the Angels of Allah. They are purely spiritual and splendid beings whose nature requires on food, drink or sleep. They spend their days and nights in the worship of God. Muslim believes in the last Day of Judgement. This world will come to an end someday, and the dead will rise to stand for their final and fair trial. People with good records will be generously, rewarded and warmly welcomed to the Heaven of Allah, and those with bad records will be punished and cast into Hell. Muslim believes in the timeless knowledge of God and His power to plan and execute His planes and nothing could happen in His Kingdom against His will. His knowledge and power are in action at all times and command over His creation. He is wise and merciful, and whatever He does must have a meaningful purpose. If this is established in our mind and hearts, we should accept with good faith all that He does, although we may fail to under stand it fully, or think it is bad.

WHAT IS ISLAM?

Can we find an explanation of the great universe? Is there any convincing interpretation of the secret of existence? We realize that no family can function properly without a responsible head, that no city can prosperously exist without sound administration, and that no state can survive without a leader of some kind. We also realize that nothing comes into being on its own. Moreover, we observe that the universe exists and functions in the most orderly manner, and that it has survived for hundreds of thousand of years. Can we then say that all this is accidental and haphazard? Can we attribute the existence of man and the whole world to mere chance.Man represents only a very small portion of the great universe. And if he can make plans and appreciate the merits of planning, then his own existence and the survival of the universe must also be a planned policy. This means that there is an extraordinary power to bring things into being and keep them moving in order.In the world then must be a great force in action to keep everything in order. In the beautiful nature there must be a Great creator who creates the most charming pieces of art produces every thing for a special purpose in life. The deeply enlightened people recognize this creator and call him Allah "God". He is not a man because no man can create or make another man. He is not an animal, nor he is a plant. He is neither an Idol nor is He a statue of any kind because non of these things can make itself or create anything else. He is different from all these things because he is the maker and keeper of them all. The maker of anything must be different from and greater than things which he makes.There are various ways to know God "ALLAH'' and there are many things to tell about him. The great wonders and impressive marvels of the world are like open books in which we can read about God. Besides, God Himself comes to our aid through the many Messengers and revelations He has sent down to man. These Messengers and revelations tell us everything we need to know about God.The complete acceptance of the teachings and guidance of God 'Allah' as revealed to His Messengers Muhammad is the religion of Islam. Islam enjoins faith in the oneness and sovereignty of Allah, which makes man aware of meaningfulness of the Universe and of his place in it. This belief frees him from all fears and superstitions by making him conscious of the presence of the Almighty Allah and of man's obligations towards Him. This faith must be expressed and tested in actions, faith alone is not enough. Belief in one God requires that we look upon all humanity as one family under the universal Omnipotence of God the Creator and Nourisher of all. Islam rejects the idea of chosen people, making belief in God and good actions the only way to heaven. Thus, a direct relationship in established with God, without any intercessor.Islam is not a new religion. It is, in essence, the same message and guidance which Allah revealed to all Prophets. Adam, Noah, Abraham, Ismael, David, Moses and Jesus (PBUT). But the message which was revealed to Prophet Mohammed (PBUT) is Islam in its comprehensive, complete and final form.The Quran is the last revealed word of Allah and the basic source of Islamic teachings and laws. The Quran deals with the basis of creeds, morality, history of humanity, worship, knowledge, wisdom, God-man relationship, and human relationship in all aspects. Comprehensive teaching on which, can be built sound systems of social justice, economics, politics, legislation, jurisprudence, law and international relations, are important contents of the Quran. Hadith, the teachings, sayings and actions of Prophet Mohammed (PBUT), meticulously reported and collected by his devoted companions. Explained and elaborated the Quranic verses.

Hajj and Tawheed

Hajj and Tawheed: Hajj is to set out for Makkah to worship Allah by performing certain religious rights in accordance with the Prophet's (peace and blessings be upon him) Sunnah. It is a time in which to call upon Allah to purify the self from any worship to anyone other than him.This booklet explains the basic rights of Hajj. It also notes that the tawheed of Allah requires the Muslim to follow the perfect way of worship, demonstrated by Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) and as understood by the Sahaabah who were the best of mankind.

YOU MUST KNOW THIS MAN

(May peace and blessings of God Almighty be upon him)You may be an atheist or an agnostic; or you may belong to anyone of the religious denominations that exist in the world today. You may be a Communist or a believer in democracy and freedom. No matter what you are, and no matter what your religious and political beliefs, personal and social habits happen to be - YOU MUST STILL KNOW THIS MAN!He was by far the most remarkable man that ever set foot on this earth. He preached a religion, founded a state, built a nation, laid down a moral code, initiated numberless social and political reforms, established a dynamic and powerful society to practice and represent his teachings, and completely revolutionized the worlds of human thought and action for all times to come.HIS NAME IS MUHAMMAD, peace and blessings of Almighty God be upon him and he accomplished all these wonders in the unbelievably short span of twenty-three years.Muhammad, peace and blessings of God Almighty be upon him was born in Arabia on the 20th of August, in the year 570 of the Christian era, and when he died after 63 years, the whole of the Arabian Peninsula had changed from paganism and idol-worship to the worship of One God; from tribal quarrels and wars to national solidarity and cohesion; from drunkenness and debauchery to sobriety and piety; from lawlessness and anarchy to disciplined living; from utter moral bankruptcy to the highest standards of moral excellence. Human history has never known such a complete transformation of a people or a place before or since!The Encyclopedia Britannica calls him "the most successful of all religious personalities of the world". Bernard Shaw said about him that if Muhammad were alive today he would succeed in solving all those problems which threaten to destroy human civilization in our times. Thomas Carlysle was simply amazed as to how one man, single-handedly, could weld warring tribes and wandering Bedouins into a most powerful and civilized nation in less than two decades. Napoleon and Gandhi never tired of dreaming of a society along the lines established by this man in Arabia fourteen centuries ago.Indeed no other human being ever accomplished so much, in such diverse fields of human thought and behavior, in so limited a space of time, as did Muhammad, peace and blessings of God Almighty be upon him. He was a religious teacher, a social reformer, a moral guide, a political thinker, a military genius, an administrative colossus, a faithful friend, a wonderful companion, a devoted husband, a loving father - all in one. No other man in history ever excelled or equaled him in any of these difficult departments of life.The world has had its share of great personalities. But these were one sided figures who distinguished themselves in but one or two fields such as religious thought or military leadership. None of the other great leaders of the world ever combined in himself so many different qualities to such an amazing level of perfection as did Muhammad, peace and blessings of God Almighty be upon him.The lives and teachings of other great personalities of the world are shrouded in the mist of time. There is so much speculation about the time and the place of their birth, the mode and style of their life, the nature and detail of their teachings and the degree and measure of their success or failure that it is impossible for humanity today to reconstruct accurately and precisely the lives and teachings of those men.Not so this man Muhammad, peace and blessings of God Almighty be upon him. Not only was he born in the fullest blaze of recorded history, but every detail of his private and public life, of his actions and utterances, has been accurately documented and faithfully preserved to our day. The authenticity of the information so preserved is vouched for not only by faithful followers but also by unbiased critics and open-minded scholars.At the level of ideas there is no system of thought and belief-secular or religious, social or political-which could surpass or equal ISLAAM- the system which Muhammad peace and blessings of God Almighty be upon him propounded. In a fast changing world, while other systems have undergone profound transformations, Islaam alone has remained above all change and mutation, and retained its original form for the past 1400 years. What is more, the positive changes that are taking place in the world of human thought and behavior, truly and consistently reflect the healthy influence of Islam in these areas. Further, it is not given to the best of thinkers to put their ideas completely into practice, and to see the seeds of their labors grow and bear fruit, in their own lifetime. Except of course, Muhammad, peace and blessings of God Almighty be upon him, who not only preached the most wonderful ideas but also successfully translated each one of them into practice in his own lifetime. At the time of his death his teachings were not mere precepts and ideas straining for fulfillment, but had become the very core of the life of tens of thousands of perfectly trained individuals, each one of whom was a marvelous personification of everything that Muhammad peace and blessings of God Almighty be upon him taught and stood for. At what other time or place and in relation to what other political, social, religious system, philosophy or ideology-did the world ever witness such a perfectly amazing phenomenon?Indeed no other system or ideology secular or religious, social or political, ancient or modern - could ever claim the distinction of having been put into practice in its fullness and entirety EVEN ONCE in this world, either before or after the death of its founder. Except of course ISLAAM, the ideology preached by Muhammad, peace and blessings of God Almighty be upon him which was established as a complete way of life by the teacher himself, before he departed from this world. History bears testimony to this fact and the greatest skeptics have no option but to concede this point.In spite of these amazing achievements and in spite of the countless absolutely convincing and authentic miracles performed by him and the phenomenal success which crowned his efforts, he did not for a moment claim to be God or God's incarnation or Son - but only a human being who was chosen and ordained by God to be a teacher of truth to man kind and a complete model and pattern for their actions.He was nothing more or less than a human being. But he was a man with a noble and exalted mission-and his unique mission was to unite humanity on the worship of ONE AND ONLY GOD and to teach them the way to honest and upright living in accordance with the laws and commands of God. He always described himself as A MESSENGER AND SERVANT OF GOD, and so indeed every single action and movement of his proclaimed him to be.A world which has not hesitated to raise to Divinity individuals whose very lives and missions have been lost in legend and who historically speaking did not accomplish half as much-or even one tenth-as was accomplished by Muhammad, peace and blessings of God Almighty be upon him should stop to take serious note of this remarkable man's claim to be God's messenger to mankind.Today after the lapse of some 1400 years the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of God Almighty be upon him, have survived without the slightest loss, alteration or interpolation. Today they offer the same undying hope for treating mankind's many ills which they did when Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of God Almighty be upon him, was alive. This is our honest claim and this is the inescapable conclusion forced upon us by a critical and unbiased study of history.The least YOU should do as a thinking, sensitive, concerned human being is to stop for one brief moment and ask yourself: Could it be that these statements, extraordinary and revolutionary as they sound, are really true? Supposing they really are true, and you did not know this man Muhammad, peace and blessings of God Almighty be upon him or hear about his teachings? Or did not know him well and intimately enough to be able to benefit from his guidance and example? Isn't it time you responded to this tremendous challenge and made some effort to know him? It will not cost you anything but it may well prove to be the beginning of a completely new era in your life.Come, let us make a new discovery of the life of this wonderful man Muhammad, peace and blessings of God Almighty be upon him the like of whom never walked on this earth, and whose example and teachings can change YOUR LIFE and OUR WORLD for the better. May God shower His choicest blessings upon him

ISLAM and the AIM of LIFE

What is your purpose in life? What is the rationale behind our life? Why do we live in this life? These questions frequently intrigue people who try to find accurate answers.People provide different answers to these questions. Some people believe the purpose of life is to accumulate wealth. But one may wonder: What is the purpose of life after one has collected colossal amounts of money? What then? What will the purpose be once money is gathered? If the purpose of life is to gain money, there will be no purpose after becoming wealthy. And in fact, here lies the problem of some disbelievers or misbelievers at some stage of their life, when collecting money is the target of their life. When they have collected the money they dreamt of, their life loses its purpose. They suffer from the panic of nothingness and they live in tension and restlessness.Can Wealth Be an Aim?We often hear of a millionaire committing suicide, sometimes, not the millionaire himself but his wife, son, or daughter. The question that poses itself is: Can wealth bring happiness to one’s life? In most cases the answer is NO. Is the purpose of collecting wealth a standing purpose? As we know, the five-year old child does not look for wealth: a toy for him is equal to a million dollars. The eighteen-year old adolescent does not dream of wealth because he is busy with more important things. The ninety-year old man does not care about money; he is worried more about his health. This proves that wealth cannot be a standing purpose in all the stages of the individual's life.Wealth can do little to bring happiness to a disbeliever, because he/she is not sure about his fate. A disbeliever does not know the purpose of life. And if he has a purpose, this purpose is doomed to be temporary or self destructive.What is the use of wealth to a disbeliever if he feels scared of the end and skeptical of everything. A disbeliever may gain a lot of money, but will surely lose himself.Worshipping Allah as an AimOn the contrary, faith in Allah gives the believer the purpose of life that he needs. In Islam, the purpose of life is to worship Allah. The term "Worship" covers all acts of obedience to Allah.The Islamic purpose of life is a standing purpose. The true Muslim sticks to this purpose throughout all the stages of his life, whether he is a child, adolescent, adult, or an old man.Worshipping Allah makes life purposeful and meaningful, especially within the framework of Islam. According to Islam this worldly life is just a short stage of our life. Then there is the other life. The boundary between the first and second life is the death stage, which is a transitory stage to the second life. The type of life in the second stage a person deserves depends on his deeds in the first life. At the end of the death stage comes the day of judgment. On this day, Allah rewards or punishes people according to their deeds in the first life.The First Life as an ExaminationSo, Islam looks at the first life as an examination of man. The death stage is similar to a rest period after the test, i. e. after the first life. The Day of Judgment is similar to the day of announcing the results of the examinees. The second life is the time when each examinee enjoys or suffers from the outcome of his behavior during the test period.In Islam, the line of life is clear, simple, and logical: the first life, death, the Day of Judgment, and then the second life. With this clear line of life, the Muslim has a clear purpose in life. The Muslim knows he is created by Allah. Muslims know they are going to spend some years in this first life, during which they have to obey God, because God will question them and hold them responsible for their public or private deeds, because Allah knows about all the deeds of all people. The Muslim knows that his deeds in the first life will determine the type of second life they will live in. The Muslim knows that this first life is a very short one, one hundred years, more or less, whereas the second life is an eternal one.The Eternity of the Second LifeThe concept of the eternity of the second life has a tremendous effect on a Muslims during their first life, because Muslims believe that their first life determines the shape of their second life. In addition, this determines the shape of their second life and this determination will be through the Judgment of Allah, the All just and Almighty.With this belief in the second life and the Day of Judgment, the Muslim's life becomes purposeful and meaningful. Moreover, the Muslim's standing purpose is to go to Paradise in the second life.In other words, the Muslim's permanent purpose is to obey Allah, to submit to Allah, to carry out His orders, and to keep in continues contact with Him through prayers (five times a day), through fasting (one month a year), through charity (as often as possible), and through pilgrimage (once in one's life).The Need for a Permanent PurposeDisbelievers have purposes in their lives such as collecting money and property, indulging in sex, eating, and dancing. But all these purposes are transient and passing ones. All these purposes come and go, go up and down. Money comes and goes. Health comes and goes. Sexual activities cannot continue forever. All these lusts for money, food and sex cannot answer the individual's questions: so what? Then What?However, Islam saves Muslims from the trouble of asking the question, because Islam makes it clear, from the very beginning, that the permanent purpose of the Muslim in this life is to obey Allah in order to go to Paradise in the second life.We should know that the only way for our salvation in this life and in the hereafter is to know our Lord who created us, believe in Him, and worship Him alone.We should also know our Prophet whom Allah had sent to all mankind, believe in Him and follow Him. We should, know the religion of truth which our Lord has commanded us to believe in, and practice it …Those in search of truthWho have an open mind and heart,Islamic Education FoundationWelcome You.Objectives: -To Convey the message of IslamTo Educate Muslims about IslamTo keep in close contact with new Muslims.Activities:Offering Courses and presenting lectures about Islam in several languages.Teaching Islam and Arabic.Teaching new Muslims to receive the Holy Quran..Helping Non- Muslims embrace Islam and complete the required procedures

HOW TO BECOME A MUSLIMAll

HOW TO BECOME A MUSLIMAll praises be to Allah, the Lord of the Universe. May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon Muhammad His last messenger.The objective of this handout is to correct a false idea spread among those willing to adopt Islam as their faith. Some people are facing difficulties on the basis of their mistaken belief that entering into the Islamic fold requires an announcement from the concerned person in the presence of high ranking scholars or sheikhs or reporting this act to courts of justice or other authorities. It is also thought that the act of accepting Islam, should, as a condition have a certificate issued by the authorities as an evidence to that effect.We wish to clarify that the whole matter is very easy and that none of the above mentioned conditions or obligations are required. For Allah; the Almighty, is above all comprehension and knows well the secrets of all hearts. Nevertheless, those who are going to adopt Islam as their religion are Muslims with the concerned governmental agency, as this procedure may facilitate for them many matters including the possibility of performing Hajj and Umrah.If anyone has a real desire to be a Muslim and has full conviction and strong belief that Islam is the true religion ordained by Allah (SWT) for all human beings, then, one should pronounce that "Shahada" (The testimony of faith) without further delay. The Holy Qur'an is explicit in this regard as Allah (SWT) has stated."Truly, the Religion on the sight of Allah is Islam." (3:19)In another verse of the Holy Qur'an, Allah (SWT) has stated:"And whosoever desires a religion other that Islam, never will it accepted of him; and in the Hereafter he will be in the ranks of those who are lost." (3:85)In addition, Islam is the only Religion prevailing over all other religions. Allah (SWT) has stated in the Holy Qur'an;"And to thee. We have sent the Book in truth, (This Qur'an) confirming the scripture that came before it, and a witness over it…" (5:48)Muhammad, the Prophet of Allah (Peace and blessing of Allah be upon him), said:"Islam is based on five pillars: testifying that there is no God worthy to be worshipped but Allah, and that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah and His servant; performing the prayer; paying the Zakat (obligatory charity); fasting the month of Ramadan; and perfuming Hajj."The Shahada can be declared as follows:''ASH-HADU ANLAA ILAHA ILLA ALLAH WA ASH HADU ANNA MUHAMMADAN ABDUHU WA RASUULUH."The English translation is:"I bear witness that there is no deity worthy to be worshipped but Allah, and I bear witness the Muhammad is His servant and messenger.''However, it would not be sufficient for anyone to utter only this testimony orally either in private or in public, but rather, one should believe in it by heart with a firm conviction with the teachings of Islam in all his life he will find himself a new born person, (or new man).This will move him to strive more and more to improve his character and draw nearer to perfection. The light of the living faith will fill his heart until be becomes the embodiment of that faith.What would be next after declaring the testimony of faith (Shahada) and then becoming a Muslim? He should know the real concept underlying this testimony which means the Oneness of Allah and accept Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), as the last of the Prophet, and meet its requirements. He must behave accordingly applying this true faith to every thing he speaks or does. What do the words of "Shahada" signify.The significant point which every Muslim must know very well is the truth that there is no God (ditty) to be worshipped other than Allah, (Glory be Him). He is the only true God, Who Alone deserves to be worshipped, since He is the Giver of life and Sustainer and Nourisher of mankind and all creation with His unlimited bounties. Man must worship Allah, Who Alone is worthy of worship.The second part of the "Sahada" i. e. "We ashhadu anna Muhammadan abduhu wa rasuluh" means that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), is the servant and chosen messenger of Allah. No one must have two opinions about this matter. In fact, the Muslim has to obey the commands of the Prophet (PBUH), to believe him in what he has said, to follow his teachings, to avoid what he has forbidden, and to worship Allah alone according to the message revealed to him.What is the meaning of worship? It simply means rendering sincere service; showing reverence for Allah. In a deeper shade of meaning, it implies total submission and complete obedience to Allah's Commandments both in utterances and actions of man whether explicit or implicit and whether private or public.Worship falls into two categories:1. Visible (manifest or outward)2. Invisible (concealed or inward)Visible worship includes acts such as uttering the two parts of the "Shahada" performing prayers, giving Zakat (Obligatory charity), observing fast in the month of Ramadan, performing Hajj, recitation of the Holy Qur'an, supplication, adoring Allah by praising Him, purifying our bodies before prayers, etc.This type of worship is associated with movement of the parts of human body, [actions].Invisible worship is to believe in Allah, in the Day of Judgment, in the Hereafter, in the Angels, in the Books of Allah, in the Divine Decree of destiny (that good and bad are determined by Allah alone.This type of worship does not involve movements of parts of the body but it surely has a bearing on one's heart which subsequently affects his way of life. (Beliefs).It should be borne in mind that worship not dedicated to Allah alone, will be rejected as one form of polytheism or shirk, which amount to apostasy from the Islamic point of view.The next step for a devotee (newly reverted to Islam) is to purify himself by taking a bath (total ablution). He should then resolve to comply with all the principles and rules of Islam in their entirety. He disowns all forms of polytheism and false beliefs. He should reject evil and be righteous. Such rejection of evil and being righteous is one of the requisites of the motto of Islam that is, Lailaha Illal Laah.Allah has stated in the Holy Qur'an:"… whoever disbelieves in false deities and believes in Allah, hath grasped the most trustworthy Handhold, that will never break…" (2:256)we have to consider that when we declare from our heart that "there is no god (ditty) worthy to be worshipped but Allah." It implies on our part of love, devotion, faith and obedience to the rules of Islamic legislation which are legally binding on all Muslims. It is requirement of "there is no god worty to be worshipped but Allah," to love for the sake of Allah and to reject for the sake of Allah. This is the firmest anchor of belief which materializes the meaning of "AL-WALA and "AL-BARA". It means that a Muslim should love and be loyal to his Muslim brothers. He should, as a practice, dissociate himself completely from practices of the unbelievers and refuse to be influenced by them, both in worldly and religious matters.We conclude with a humble prayer to Allah that He may cleanse the hearts and souls of those who are genuine seekers of truth and may He bless the community of believers. Ameen

Twelve Proofs that MUHAMMAD is a True Prophet

Twelve Proofs that Muhammad is a True ProphetMy brothers and sisters everywhere! With this essay, I am not singling out the adherents of Islam - to which I ascribe - but rather I am writing this essay to every man and woman throughout the whole world.I ask Allah that He facilitates tat this essay reaches every ear, falls under the sight of every eye, and is understood by every heart...Muhammad the son of `Abdullah is Allah's Prophet and the Final Messenger Sent by Allah to the Inhabitants of Earth.My brothers and sisters everywhere! You should know that the Messenger, Muhammad the son of `Abdullah (may Allah's blessings and peace be upon him) is Allah's Messenger in reality and truth. The evidences that show his veracity are abundant. None but an infidel, who out of arrogance alone, could deny these signs.Among these proofs:1. Muhammad (may Allah's blessings and peace be upon him) was raised illiterate, unable to read or write, and remained like that till his death. Among all his people, he was known as being truthful and trustworthy. Before receiving revelation, he had no prior knowledge of Religion or any previously sent Message. He remained like that for his first forty years. Revelation then came to Muhammad with the Koran that we now have between our hands. This Koran mentioned most of the accounts found in the previous scriptures, telling us about these events in the greatest detail as if he witnessed them. These accounts came precisely as they were found in the Torah sent down to Moses and in the Gospel sent down to Jesus. Neither the Jews or Christians were able to belie him regarding anything that he said.2. Muhammad (may Allah's blessings and peace be upon him) also foretold of everything that would occur to him and his community after him, pertaining to victory, the removal of the tyrannical kingdoms of Chosroes [the royal title for the Zoroastrian kings of Persia] and Caesar, and the establishment of the religion of Islam throughout the earth. These events occurred exactly as Muhammad foretold, as if he was reading the future from an open book.3. Muhammad (may Allah's blessings and peace be upon him) also brought an Arabic Koran that is the peak of eloquence and clarity. The Koran challenged those eloquent and fluent Arabs of his time, who initially belied him, to bring forth a single chapter like the Koran. The eloquent Arabs of his day were unable to contest this Koran.Indeed, till our day, none has ever dared to claim that he has been able to compose words that equal-or even approach-the order, grace, beauty, and splendor of this Glorious Koran.4. The life history of this Noble Prophet was a perfect example of being upright, merciful, compassionate, truthful, brave, generous, distant from all evil character, and ascetic in all worldly matters, while striving solely for the reward of the Hereafter. Moreover, in all his actions and dealings, he was ever mindful and fearful of Allah.5. Allah instilled great love for Muhammad (may Allah's blessings and peace be upon him) in the hearts of all who believed in and met him. This love reached such a degree that any of his companions would willingly sacrifice his (or her) self, mother or father for him.Till today, those who believe in Muhammad honor and love him. Anyone of those who believe in him would ransom his own family and wealth to see him, even if but once.6. All of history has not preserved the biography of any person in the manner it has preserved the life of Muhammad, who is the most influential human in history.Nor has the entire earth known of anyone whom every morning and evening, and many times thereafter throughout the day, is thought of by those who believe in him. Upon remembering Muhammad, the believers in him will greet him and ask Allah to bless him. They do such with full hearts and true love for him.7. Nor has there every been a man on earth whom is still followed in all his doings by those who believe in him.Those who believe in Muhammad, sleep in the manner he slept; purify themselves (through ablution and ritual washing) in the manner he purified himself; and adhere to his practice in the way they eat, drink, and clothe themselves.Indeed in all aspects of their lives, the believers in Muhammad adhere to the teachings he spread among them and the path that he traveled upon during his life.During every generation, from his day till our time, the believers in this Noble Prophet have fully adhered to his teachings. With some, this has reached the degree that they desire to follow and adhere to the Prophet's way in his personal matters regarding which Allah has not sought of them to adhere to in worship. For example, some will only eat those specific foods or only wear those specific garments that the Messenger liked.Let alone all that, all those who believe in Muhammad repeat those praises of Allah, special prayers, and invocations that he would say during each of his actions during day and night, like: what he would say when he greeted people, upon entering and leaving the house, entering and leaving the mosque, entering and leaving the bathroom, going to sleep and awaking from sleep, observing the new crescent, observing the new fruit on trees, eating, drinking, dressing, riding, traveling and returning from travel, etc.Let alone all that, all those who believe in Muhammad fully perform-even to the minute detail-every act of worship-like prayer, fasting, charity, and pilgrimage-as this Noble Messenger (may Allah's blessings and peace be upon him) taught and as he himself performed.All of this allows those who believe in him, to live their lives in all aspects with this Noble Messenger as their example, as if he was standing before them, for them to follow in all their doings.8. There has never been nor will there ever be a man anywhere upon this earth who has received such love, respect, honor, and obedience in all matters-small and large alike-as has this Noble Prophet.9. Since his day, in every region of the earth and during every period, this Noble Prophet has been followed by individuals from all races, colors and peoples. Many of those who followed him were previously Christians, Jews, pagans, idolaters, or without any religion. Among those who chose to follow him, were those who were known for their sound judgment, wisdom, reflection, and foresight. They chose to follow this Noble Prophet after they witnessed the signs of his truthfulness and the evidences of his miracles. They did not choose to follow Muhammad out of compulsion or coercion or because they had adopted the ways of their fathers and mothers.Indeed many of the followers of this Prophet (may Allah's blessings peace be upon him), chose to follow him during the time when Islam was weak, when there were few Muslims, and when there was severe persecution of his followers on earth. Most people who have followed this Prophet (may Allah's blessings and peace be upon him) have done so not to acquire some material benefits. Indeed many of his followers have suffered the greatest forms of harm and persecution as a result of following this Prophet. Despite all this harm and persecution, this did not turn them back from his religion.My brethren! All of this clearly indicates to anyone possessing any sense, that this Prophet was truly and really Allah's messenger and that he was not just a man who claimed prophethood or spoke about Allah without knowledge.10. With all this, Muhammad came with a great religion in its credal and legal make-up.Muhammad described Allah with qualities of complete perfection, and at the same time in a manner that is free of ascribing to Him any imperfection. Neither the philosophers or the wise could ever describe Allah like such. Indeed it is impossible to imagine that any human mind could conceive of an existing being that possesses such complete ability, knowledge, and greatness; Who has subdued the creation; Who has encompassed everything in the universe, small or large; and Who possesses such perfect mercy.Nor is it in the ability of any human being to place a perfect law based upon justice, equality, mercy and objectivity for all human activity on earth like the laws that Muhammad brought for all spheres of human activity - like buying and selling, marriage and divorce, renting, testimony, custody, and all other contracts that are necessary to uphold life and civilization on earth.11. It is impossible that any person conceive wisdom,, morals, good manners, nobleness of characters as what this honorable Prophet (may Allah's blessings and peace be upon him) brought.In a full and complete manner, Muhammad spread a teaching regarding character and manners toward one' parents, relatives, fiends, family, humanity, animals, plants and inanimate objects. It is impossible for the human mind alone to grasp all of that teaching or come with a similar teaching.All of that unequivocally indicates that this Messenger did not bring an) of this religion from his own accord, but that it was rather a teaching and inspiration that he received from the One Who created the earth and the high heavens above and created this universe in its miraculous architecture and perfection.12. The legal and credal make-up of the religion that the Messenger, Muhammad, (may Allah's blessings and peace be upon him) brought resembles the engineering of the heavens and the earth. All of that indicates that He who created the heavens and the earth is the One Who sent down this great law and upright religion.The degree of inimitability of the Divine law that was sent down upon Muhammad is to the same degree of inimitability of the Divine creation of the heavens and earth. For just as humanity cannot create this universe, in the same manner humanity cannot bring forth a law like Allah's law that He sent down upon His servant and messenger Muhammad (may Allah's blessings and peace be upon

There are five pillars of Islam

The declaration of faith: To bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and that Mohammad (PBUH) is His Messenger to all human beings till the Day of Judgment. The Prophethood of Mohammad obliges the Muslims to follow, His exemplary life as a model. Prayers: Daily, prayers are offered five times a day as a duty towards Allah. They strengthen and enliven the belief in Allah and inspire man to a higher morality. They purify the heart and prevent temptation towards wrong - doings and evil. Fasting the month of Ramadan. The Muslims during the month of Ramadan not only abstain from food, drink and sexual intercourse from dawn to sunset but also sincerity and devotion. It develops a sound social conscience, patience, unselfishness and will - Power. Zakkah: The literal and simple meaning of Zakkah is purity. The technical meaning of this word designates the annual amount in kind or coin which a Muslim with means must distribute among the rightful beneficiaries. But the religious and spiritual significance of Zakkah is much deeper and more lively. So it has humanitarian and sociopolitical values. Hajj (Pilgrimage to Makkah): It is to be performed once in a lifetime, if one can afford it financially and physically.

THE FUNDAMENTAL ARTICLES OF FAITH IN ISLAM

The true faithful Muslim believes in the following Principal articles of faith:-He believes in One God 'Allah', Supreme and Eternal, Infinite and Mighty, Merciful and Compassionate, Creator and Provider. He believes in all Messengers of God without any discrimination among them. Every known nation had a warner or Messenger from God. They were chosen by God to teach mankind and deliver His divine message. The Quran mentions the name of twenty five of them. Among them Mohammad stands as the last Messenger and the crowning glory of the foundation of Prophethood. Muslin believes in all scriptures and revelations of God. They were the guiding light which the Messengers received to show their respected peoples the Right Path of God. In the Quran a special reference is made to the books of Abraham, Moses, David and Jesus. But long before the revelations has been lost or corrupted. The only authentic and complete book of God in existence in the Quran. The true Muslim believes in the Angels of Allah. They are purely spiritual and splendid beings whose nature requires on food, drink or sleep. They spend their days and nights in the worship of God. Muslim believes in the last Day of Judgement. This world will come to an end someday, and the dead will rise to stand for their final and fair trial. People with good records will be generously, rewarded and warmly welcomed to the Heaven of Allah, and those with bad records will be punished and cast into Hell. Muslim believes in the timeless knowledge of God and His power to plan and execute His planes and nothing could happen in His Kingdom against His will. His knowledge and power are in action at all times and command over His creation. He is wise and merciful, and whatever He does must have a meaningful purpose. If this is established in our mind and hearts, we should accept with good faith all that He does, although we may fail to under stand it fully, or think it is bad. THE FIVE PILLARS OF ISLAMFaith without actions arid practice is a dead end, as far as Islam is concerned. Faith by nature is very sensitive and can be most effective. When it is not out of practice or out of use, it quickly loses its liveliness and motivation power.

WHAT IS ISLAM?

Can we find an explanation of the great universe? Is there any convincing interpretation of the secret of existence? We realize that no family can function properly without a responsible head, that no city can prosperously exist without sound administration, and that no state can survive without a leader of some kind. We also realize that nothing comes into being on its own. Moreover, we observe that the universe exists and functions in the most orderly manner, and that it has survived for hundreds of thousand of years. Can we then say that all this is accidental and haphazard? Can we attribute the existence of man and the whole world to mere chance.Man represents only a very small portion of the great universe. And if he can make plans and appreciate the merits of planning, then his own existence and the survival of the universe must also be a planned policy. This means that there is an extraordinary power to bring things into being and keep them moving in order.In the world then must be a great force in action to keep everything in order. In the beautiful nature there must be a Great creator who creates the most charming pieces of art produces every thing for a special purpose in life. The deeply enlightened people recognize this creator and call him Allah "God". He is not a man because no man can create or make another man. He is not an animal, nor he is a plant. He is neither an Idol nor is He a statue of any kind because non of these things can make itself or create anything else. He is different from all these things because he is the maker and keeper of them all. The maker of anything must be different from and greater than things which he makes.There are various ways to know God "ALLAH'' and there are many things to tell about him. The great wonders and impressive marvels of the world are like open books in which we can read about God. Besides, God Himself comes to our aid through the many Messengers and revelations He has sent down to man. These Messengers and revelations tell us everything we need to know about God.The complete acceptance of the teachings and guidance of God 'Allah' as revealed to His Messengers Muhammad is the religion of Islam. Islam enjoins faith in the oneness and sovereignty of Allah, which makes man aware of meaningfulness of the Universe and of his place in it. This belief frees him from all fears and superstitions by making him conscious of the presence of the Almighty Allah and of man's obligations towards Him. This faith must be expressed and tested in actions, faith alone is not enough. Belief in one God requires that we look upon all humanity as one family under the universal Omnipotence of God the Creator and Nourisher of all. Islam rejects the idea of chosen people, making belief in God and good actions the only way to heaven. Thus, a direct relationship in established with God, without any intercessor.Islam is not a new religion. It is, in essence, the same message and guidance which Allah revealed to all Prophets. Adam, Noah, Abraham, Ismael, David, Moses and Jesus (PBUT). But the message which was revealed to Prophet Mohammed (PBUT) is Islam in its comprehensive, complete and final form.The Quran is the last revealed word of Allah and the basic source of Islamic teachings and laws. The Quran deals with the basis of creeds, morality, history of humanity, worship, knowledge, wisdom, God-man relationship, and human relationship in all aspects. Comprehensive teaching on which, can be built sound systems of social justice, economics, politics, legislation, jurisprudence, law and international relations, are important contents of the Quran. Hadith, the teachings, sayings and actions of Prophet Mohammed (PBUT), meticulously reported and collected by his devoted companions. Explained and elaborated the Quranic verses.

Perform your ablutions thoroughly… inhaling deeply unless you are fasting.”

Abû Hurayrah relates that Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said: “Perform your ablutions thoroughly, running your fingers through each other, and inhaling the water deeply unless you are fasting.” This hadîth is related in Sunan al-Tirmidhî, Sunan Abî Dâwûd, Sunan al-Nasâ’î al-Kubrâ, Sunan Ibn Mâjah, Sahîh Ibn Khuzaymah, Mustadrak al-Hâkim and Musnad Ahmad, among other sources. It is an authentic hadîth. It has been determined to be authentic by a number of hadîth authorities. Al-Tirmidhî declared it “a good and authentic hadîth”. [Sûnan al-Tirmidhî (3/129)] It has also been authenticated by Ibn Khuzaymah, Ibn Hibbân, al-Hâkim, al-Baghawi, al-Nawawî, Ibn al-Mulaqqin, Ibn Hajar al-`Asqalâni, and others. The meaning of the hadîth: The story behind this hadîth is that Laqît b. Sabirah came to the Prophet (peace be upon him) as part of the delegation from the tribe of Banû Muntafiq and asked him about how to perform wudû’. The Prophet (peace be upon him) replied by making this statement. [Sunan Abî Dâwûd (142)] Inhaling the water deeply means to do so until it reaches the very back of the nasal cavity. Its legal implications: This hadîth indicates the ruling of istinshâq that we have already discussed in the article “Then he rinsed his mouth and inhaled and exhaled water…”. This hadîth also introduces the ruling on inhaling deeply when doing so, since the Prophet (peace be upon him) is here commanding us to do so, and a command is generally assumed to indicate obligation. However, Ibn Qudâmah says: “This is a Sunnah act that is preferred for wudû’ except for one who is fasting. In that case, it is not preferred. We do not know of any difference of opinion about this matter.” [al-Mughnî (1/147)] Likewise, al-Nawawî says: “Inhaling deeply and taking water to the back of the mouth when rinsing it are both preferred acts, about which there is no difference of opinion.” [al-Majmu` (1/356)] The Prophet’s words: “unless you are fasting” indicate to use that inhaling deeply is not obligatory. If inhaling deeply had been obligatory, we would have been required to carry out this obligation with care while fasting, so as not to break our fasts, since we can easily do so without allowing water to reach the throat. Indeed, one of the rulings of fasting is that if a person does inhale water deeply without letting it reach his throat, then his fast is intact. The non-obligatory nature of inhaling deeply in wudû’ is further emphasized by the fact that the instruction not to do so when we are fasting is general for all fasts, those that are voluntary as well as those that are obligatory. If inhaling deeply were an obligatory act of wudû’, we would not be able to leave it off on account of our voluntary fasts. Obligatory acts of worship are not dispensed with to facilitate voluntary ones. Also, none of the hadîth that describe the Prophet’s wudu’ mention that he inhaled deeply. The texts simply mentioned that he inhaled water into his nostrils and that he rinsed his mouth. This supports the interpretation that the command to inhale deeply that was given to Laqît was a recommendation and not an obligation. Some benefits of this hadîth: 1. The hadîth indicates that it is obligatory for us to perform our ablutions thoroughly, since the Prophet (peace be upon him) commanded this. Thoroughness in wudû’ means that water must reach all the parts of the body that it is obligatory to wash. We must wash our faces thoroughly. Our hands and forearms must be completely washed to the elbows. Our feet must be washed completely. Likewise, those jurists who subscribe to the view that the head must be wiped thoroughly in wudû’ would regard it as also being included in this instruction. There is, however, another meaning to thoroughness in performing our ablutions – in which this thoroughness is a recommended act – and that is for us to take care to carry out our ablutions as perfectly and completely as possible without going to any excesses which would be at variance with the Sunnah. A person who washes each limb completely three times and who takes care to observe all the Sunnah acts of wudû’ is one who has performed his ablutions thoroughly. The opposite of a thorough wudû’ according to this understanding would be a “light” wudû’, like what Ibn `Abbâs said on thenight that he stayed at his aunt Maymûnah’s house and observed the Prophet’s wudû’: “He performed his ablutions from a suspended waterskin and made a light wudû’.” [Sahîh al-Bukhârî (138)] 2. The hadîth also points to the practice of running our fingers through each other when performing wudû’. This act, according to the strongest opinion, is a recommended act of wudû.’

Allah the One, Allah the Eternally Besought…' - When the Qur'ân Avoids Pronouns

Allah says: "Say: He is Allah, the One, Allah the eternally besought." [Sûrah al-Ikhlâs: 1-2]The Qur'ân is miraculous in its eloquence. There is meaning in every choice of word and every stylistic decision. One of these decisions that may seem minor to us, is in fact rich in nuance. This is the decision in the Qur'ân whether to use a pronoun or to repeat the noun. This is a stylistic device which is frequently found in the Qur'ân. We can see it clearly where Allah commands us in the Qur'ân: "Say: He is Allah, the One, Allah the eternally besought." We see in this verse that the name "Allah" is repeated twice in succession. A pronoun was not used instead. The verse does not read: "He is Allah the One, He is the eternally besought…" There are blessings, of course, in the repetition of Allah's name. However, this repletion here clearly adds to the richness of the verse's meaning and to its power. The oneness of Allah is brought into sharper focus. Through repeating Allah's name, the verse emphasizes that Allah being besought by all is itself an emphasis of his being the one and only God, the creator and sustainer of everything and everyone in Creation. `Abd al-Qâhir al-Jurjânî, the great scholar of Arabic literary style, writes in his seminal work Dalâ'il al-I`jâz (Evidences of the Qur'ân's Miraculousness):
"Say: He is Allah, the One, Allah the eternally besought." has a delightful, stately, and noble quality of speech that is not lost upon a discerning reader. Had the pronoun "He" been employed instead of the explicit repetition of Allah's name – had the verse read "Say: He is Allah, the One, He is the eternally besought." – then you would not feel the same effect. The same can be said for the verse: "So he began searching their sacks before his brother's sack, then brought it out from his brother's sack." Indeed, al-Jurjânî points us to another good example of this stylistic device, where Allah says: "So he began searching their sacks before his brother's sack, then brought it out from his brother's sack." [Sûrah Yûsuf: 76] We see in this verse that Allah repeats the word "brother", saying "brother's sack" twice in close succession instead of saying "his sack" the second time, which is the more usual way of speaking. In this case, the repetition of the word "brother" is used to impart a greater sense of disclosure and discovery to a critical and dramatic moment in Yûsuf's story. Yûsuf has the stolen object pulled out of his brother's sack last after the other sacks are searched. The identification with Joseph's brother is a major thing, since it is evidence incriminating his brother of theft. This is used by Yûsuf as a means of keeping his brother with him. Another example of this stylistic device is seen in the verse: "We sent down the (Qur'an) in truth, and in Truth has it descended: and We sent you only to give glad tidings and to warn. " [Sûrah al-Isrâ': 105] Allah could have said: "We sent down the Qur'ân in truth, and thus it has descended". However, we can clearly see how effective the repletion of the word "truth" is here. It emphasizes the purity and clear certainty of the Qur'ân's message by reiterating mention of its truth from the angle of Allah sending it down and from the angle of it being a revealed book. Another example is seen in the verse: "Allah promises the hypocrites, men and women, and the disbelievers the hellfire for their abode. It will suffice them. Allah curses them, and theirs is lasting torment. " [Sûrah al-Tawbah: 68] In his landmark commentary of the Qur'ân, al-Alûsî offers the following comment on this verse:
[The verse] says: "…Allah curses them". There is an explicit reiteration of Allah's name here, in spite of its already being stated in the phrase "Allah promises the hypocrites…" The end of the verse could have read: "He curses them, and theirs is a lasting torment." However, by explicitly mentioning the name "Allah" again, it gives a forceful impression of the severity of Allah's anger at the hypocrites.These are but a few examples. There are numerous others. We should read the Qur'ân attentively and consider the other places where Allah the Qur'ân chooses to repeat a noun instead of relying on a pronoun. In this way, we will have a greater appreciation of the Qur'ân's richness and beauty. And Allah knows best.

The Holy One

"All that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth glorifies Allah, the King, the Holy One, the Mighty, the Wise." [Sûrah al-Jumu`ah: 1] Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to say while bowing and prostrating in prayer: "Most Glorified, Most Holy, Lord of the angels and the Spirit." [Sahîh Muslim (487)] The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to glorify Allah in a number of ways. When he concluded his Witr prayer, he used to repeat three times: "Glory be to the King, the Holy One," raising his voice the third time he said it. [Sunan Abî Dâwûd (1430) and Sunan al-Nasâ'î (1699, 1732)] The meaning of "Holy" The Holy One is among Allah's beautiful names. The Arabic word quddûs is derived from a linguistic root which conveys the meaning of "purity". In the context of being one of Allah's names, it conveys the meaning of being free off all imperfections, transcendent above any deficiency or dependency, or any other meaning that does not suit His divine perfection, which includes that of having a child, a companion, or a partner of any kind. Some concepts are imperfections if considered in the context of divinity, though they would be considered part of what it means for a human being to be complete. Take the concept of "sleep" for instance. This is a characteristic of created beings, and for them it is an aspect of their wholeness and health. Imagine the state of a person suffering from insomnia. Such a person will seek medical treatment to get cured of that illness. At the same time, sleep would be a deficiency if attributed to Allah, for Allah transcends the need to sleep. Another meaning of "the Holy One" is that Allah is characterized by attributes of perfection, for indeed Allah's attributes do not resemble those of created beings in any way. Allah is the one whom we glorify. When we say: "Glory be to Allah", we are asserting Allah's transcendence above every deficiency and dependency while affirming for Him every attribute of perfection and beauty. Another meaning of "the Holy One" is that Allah is the possessor of blessings and munificence. It may be from this connotation that the word conveys the meaning of that which is sanctified and blessed. Allah talks about the Holy Land: "O my people! Go into the holy land which Allah has ordained for you." [Sûrah al-Mâ'idah: 21] Here He means the land which is blessed because He has bestowed His blessings upon that land and its environs. For He says: "Glory be to (Allah) Who took His servant for a journey by night from the Sacred Mosque to the Farthest Mosque, whose precincts We did bless." [Sûrah al-Isrâ': 1] It is indeed Allah who is the possessor of all blessings: "Blessed is He for whom sovereignty is in His hand." [Sûrah al-Mulk: 1] and "Blessed is He who revealed the Criterion unto His servant" [Sûrah al-Furqân: 1] All blessings emanate from Him and all blessedness returns to Him. He is the possessor of blessings which He bestows upon His worshippers by blessing their good works and their time. He bestows blessings as He pleases. No constraints can be placed upon His blessings, by which we mean all that is good. Blessings can manifest themselves in many ways. We are blessed in our sustenance, when Allah makes a meager portion yield great benefit. Allah blesses us in our lifespans by making it easy for us to perform righteous deeds and produce great achievements we might never have thought we would be able to accomplish. He blesses us in our wealth by making a little bit of wealth grow and bear fruits that are spent to achieve many good things. By contrast, Allah can strip a person of blessings, so that a person, in spite of possessing ample wealth, a long life and many opportunities, gets no benefit from it all. When Allah blesses a person's wealth, work, knowledge, or lifespan, it will be more fruitful and it will yield forth greater and more blessed results. Another meaning of "the Holy One" is that Allah is sanctified in the hearts and minds of His creatures, including human beings and angels. Indeed, Allah extols His own sanctity and transcendence in numerous places in the Qur'ân.

Violating Monotheism – Is It Always Idolatry?

Monotheism is the essence of Islamic belief. The most serious sin in Islam is to violate this through idolatry or polytheism of every kind. There are various ways in which a person can compromise or violate the necessities of monotheism, some more serious than others. Scholars have divided the violations of monotheism into three categories. They do so to make it easy to differentiate between what negates a person's faith altogether, what compromises that faith without negating it, and what amounts to falling short in the perfection of one's faith. These categories are as follows: 1. What violates the very basis of monotheistic faith. 2. What negates the completeness of faith in a sinful way 3. What compromises the perfection of one's faith That which violates the very basis of faith Certain beliefs and practices strike at the very heart of our belief in Allah. Committing such violations is tantamount to idolatry and disbelief. The essence of monotheism is to believe that Allah is the one and only God in every way: in His Lordship and sovereignty over creation, in His exclusive right to be worshipped, and in His divine names and attributes which He shares with no other. If a person commits something that undermines this essential belief, then that person has committed polytheism – in some way or another that person has set up a partner with Allah in His divinity. This would include believing that some other being or entity governs the affairs of creation along with Allah. It would include the belief that it is permissible to worship something or someone other than Allah. It would include reverencing or loving some person with the kind of reverence or love that belongs to Allah alone. That which violates the completeness of faith in a sinful way There is a completeness of faith that a Muslim must have. Falling short of this degree of faith is sinful, but it does not necessarily negate one's faith or cause one to fall into polytheism. Someone might swear an oath by other than Allah, see a bad omen in something, wear an amulet, or do some other act that scholars describe as "minor polytheism". The most common way in which a person commits a violation against the completeness of his or her faith is to show off to others while engaged in some act that should be carried out solely for Allah's sake. We must be aware, however, that these acts can grow in consequence to the point that they become acts of serious polytheism. Take the ubiquitous problem of showing off where the person engages in some act of worship solely so some other person might see it. Or where someone swears an oath to other than Allah, believing that the oath is being thereby solemnized on something greater than Allah Himself. This strikes at the very essence of monotheism. That which compromises the perfection of one's faith Some scholars mention this third category which relates to the highest perfection of monotheism that the heart can attain. Examples of this high degree of perfection would include having a heart free of all pessimism, to be pleased with whatever Allah decrees to the point of being happy and thankful to Allah even in the greatest of misfortunes. It entails never seeking ruqyah, even the kind that is lawful in Islam. All of this indicates a high degree of certainty of faith. However, there is no sin or violation of faith in not doing so. Finally, there are certain acts which compromise monotheism to varying degrees depend on the state of the heart of the person who commits those acts. A good example of this is a person's reliance on natural causes and practical means. All of us as believers are supposed to rely fully upon Allah while at the same time taking the practical steps to reach our goals. For instance, we are supposed to seek medical treatment for our illnesses, while knowing with full certainty that it is Allah who heals us. However, if a person believes that the medicine brings about its effect without Allah's will and power, then such a belief violates the very essence of monotheism. On the other hand, if the person knows that the cause only brings about its effect by Allah's will and decree, but the person relies so strongly on the cause that he or she forgets about Allah, the this is a sinful breach of faith, but it is not a negation of the person's faith altogether. Finally, if the person takes recourse to the cause while relying upon Allah, but his or her heart is attached more to the cause than to the reliance upon Allah, then the person's faith is intact, but falls short of perfection. In each case, the person's action is the same. What matters is the state of the person's heart. May Allah sustain us upon faith throughout our lives.

'Whoever wishes to undertake the Hajj should hasten…

Ibn `Abbâs relates that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever wishes to undertake the Hajj should hasten to do so. A person might become sick, lose the opportunity, or become beset with needs." [Sunan Abî Dâwûd (1732) and Sunan Ibn Majâh (2883)]There can be no doubt that it is best to hasten to undertake the Hajj as soon as we get the opportunity to do so. We may feel that the opportunity will be there for us I the future, but we do not know what the future has in store for us. Therefore, if we can undertake the Hajj now, and there is no pressing reason to postpone it, then we are well advised to do so. A legal question: Is it Compulsory to Perform the Hajj Immediately? However, some people have good reasons to postpone the Hajj for a year or so. For instance a person might wish to wait a year so as to be able to offer the Hajj with his or her parents. Someone else might be in the middle of some important and lawful undertaking at home ad not want to leave at that moment. Can such people postpone their Hajj for some time or are they obligated to undertake the Hajj as soon as they are able to do so? Scholars agree that it is not obligatory to undertake the Hajj if one does not have sufficient means or the ability to do so. Allah says: "And pilgrimage to the House is a duty unto Allah upon humanity, for whoever has the ability to undertake the journey." [Sûrah Âl `Imrân: 97] is able to undertake the journey, or whether it is an obligation that must be fulfilled some unspecified time in the future. One opinion is that once a person has the ability and opportunity to undertake the Hajj, it is compulsory for that person to take that very opportunity to do so. In other words. It is sinful to delay it when one has the means to do so. The second opinion is that Hajj becomes obligatory upon a person once he or she has the means and opportunity to undertake it. However, it is not obligator for the person to perform Hajj at that first opportunity. The person has the choice to postpone undertaking the Hajj until a later year. This is the ruling adopted by the Mâlikî school of law – or as al-Qurtubî says, it is the gist of the Malikî position. It is also the position of the Shâfi`î school of law. It is also the view of Muhammad al-Shaybânî of the Hanafî school. We might safely say that it is the majority ruling. This ruling is supported by the following evidence: 1. There is no textual evidence giving a specific timeframe or time limit within which the Hajj must be undertaken. There is no text designating a specific year or a specific age. The lack of such specifications means that Hajj has a flexible timeframe. It must simply be undertaken at some time during a person's life. 2. One of the strongest arguments in support of this view is the Prophet's own practice. He did not undertake the Hajj immediately after its obligation had been revealed in the Qur'ân. The Prophet (peace be upon him) did not undertake the Hajj until the year 10 AH. Ibn al-Qayyim and Ibn Taymiyah counter this by arguing that Hajj was only made obligatory in the year 9 AH. However, there are a number of verses regarding the obligation of undertaking the Hajj that were most certainly revealed much earlier, like: "Complete the Hajj and the lesser pilgrimage for Allah." [Sûrah al-Baqarah: 196] Admittedly, some scholars counter this by arguing that the verse only establishes the obligation of completing the Hajj once you have embarked upon it, not of undertaking the Hajj in the first place. However, there is also a hadîth related by Anas b. Mâlik where a desert dweller came to the Prophet (peace be upon him) in the year 5 AH and the Prophet (peace be upon him) instructed him to believe, offer the prayers, pay Zakâh, observe the fast, and undertake the Hajj to Allah's sacred house. [Sahîh Muslim (12)] This is proof that Hajj was an obligation already established upon the Muslims by the fifth year after the Hijrah. Even if we accept Ibn al-Qayyim's view that Hajj was made obligatory only in the year 9 AH, this would still mean that the Prophet (peace be upon him) postponed his undertaking the Hajj for one year, since he only did so in 10 AH. [Sahîh Muslim (1218)] Scholars have investigated the possible reasons why the Prophet (peace be upon him) postponed undertaking the Hajj until the year 10 AH, when he could easily have done so in the year 9 AH, and they have come up with different possibilities. Some say that he was busy with other matters. Others say that he avoided undertaking the Hajj while there were still polytheists in Mecca and a number of polytheistic rites that still needed to be removed. That is why the Prophet (peace be upon him) sent Abû Bakr and `Ali to Mecca in the year 9 AH and ordered them to announce that idolaters would not be allowed to perform Hajj from the following year and that it would be forbidden to perfom the Hajj rites naked, as had been the pagan practice. [Sahîh al-Bukhârî (4363) and Sahîh Muslim (1347)] Thus, the Prophet (peace be upon him) hastened to Hajj in year 10 AH after these practices had been abolished. Other scholars say the reason the Prophet delayed performing Hajj until the 10th year was that the Arabs in pre-Islamic times had corrupted the calendar by their practice of transpositioning months, and the Prophet (peace be upon him) waited for the 10th year when, by his own profession, he declared that the dates had righted themselves again. During his sermon at the Pilgrimage, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "The reckoning of time has come around and returned to the way it had been on the day that Allah created the heavens and the Earth." [Sahîh al-Bukhârî (3197) and Sahîh Muslim (1679)] This means that in the previous year (9AH) the Hajj would actually not have been performed on the correct date. However, this is ulikely to be the reason for the Prophet's delay, since the Prophet had also said that Hajj is on the day when the people make the Hajj. In other words, if the entire community is mistaken about the Hajj days, their Hajj will still be valid and accepted. It appears that the real reason why the Prophet (peace be upon him) postponed undertaking the Hajj until the year 10 AH s his desire to make things easy on the people. His postponing the Hajj for at least a year clearly establishes through his very practice that Hajj does not become compulsory for a person to undertake immediately when that person is able to do so. There is flexibility in the timeframe. The only exception to this is where a person is able to undertake the Hajj in a certain year and has good reason to believe that he or she will not be able to do so in the future, for instance, someone who is terminally ill. Such a person would be obligated to undertake the Hajj in that very year. And Allah knows best.

Setting an Example of Piety

One day, close to noontime, while the Prophet (peace be upon him) was sitting and conferring with his Companions, a group of desert dwellers approached. Their purpose was none other than to represent their people to the Prophet (peace be upon him) and declare their faith in Islam. The Prophet (peace be upon him) regarded them. It was obvious from their appearance that they were from a log way off and that their journey had been a hard one. They had no shoes on their feet. Their clothes were scant and threadbare, and amounted to nothing more than scraps of bound cloth. They had no possessions with them and were starving. The Prophet's face became strained with sorrow and concern. He looked at them with compassion. Then he stood up, turned and went into his house. After a while, he returned and instructed Bilâl to call the people to prayer. Then the Prophet led the Muslims in the Noon Prayer. Afterwards, he stood at the pulpit and recited verses of the Qur'ân which exhort to goodwill and charity. Then he said: "A man should donate some of his gold or silver, or a container of flour, or a container of dates…" until he finally appealed "…or even if but half a date." In this way, he encouraged all the Muslims to give what they could. He then took his seat and waited for his Companions to help out their brothers who had come to them in such straitened circumstances. No one acted immediately. The minutes of inaction seemed long and heavy. The Prophet's displeasure with such a response could be seen on his face. Then a man from the natives of Madinah came forward with a large purse full of silver so big he was barely able to carry it in both his hands. He said: "Messenger of Allah! This is for the sake of Allah." By taking the initiative, he broke the heavy spell of silence and inactivity, for right then, Abû Bakr stood up and made a donation. Then `Umar came forward with charity. Then everyone came forward with what they could give of food, clothing, and money. The Prophet's face shone with joy as looked at the pile of food and clothing that had been placed before him. However, his attention was drawn more strongly to that man who had been the first to give and in doing so broke the impasse of hesitation. The Prophet (peace be upon him) then said: "Whoever sets a good precedent in Islam will have the blessing for doing so as well as the blessing for everyone who acts upon it thereafter, without their blessings being diminished in the least. And whoever sets an evil precedent in Islam will have the sin for doing so as well as the sin of everyone who acts upon it thereafter, without their sis being diminished in the least." [Sahîh Muslim: (1017)] From this event, we can draw valuable lessons regarding the importance, in Islamic work, of taking initiative and of setting practical and conspicuous examples. We can see the effect the native of Madinah had on everyone else by his taking the initiative and bringing that bag of silver to the Prophet (peace be upon him). The people had been hesitating. However, after the people saw someone make a conspicuous donation, they all rushed to follow suit. It may be true that some of them may have given substantially more than he did, but it was his setting the precedent that got them to do so. This is the reason why the Prophet (peace be upon him) informed him that those who set a good precedent receive the blessings of all those who follow suit. He was, in effect, congratulating that man for taking the initiative. We also learn from the story that we do not have to be famous celebrities or prominent people for our initiative to count. We do not even know the name of the man who brought the first bag of silver. All we know is that he was a native of Madinah. Nevertheless, he set a precedent that was immediately followed by the two most eminent citizens of the Muslim community – Abû Bakr and `Umar. Therefore, we should never feel that we are too unimportant or insignificant to set a public example. That unnamed man did not get intimidated by the presence of those community leaders. He was not shy to be the first person to do something good. By being bold, he received the blessings of Abû Bakr, `Umar, and all the other important – and sometimes extremely wealthy – people who gave their donations after him. In fact, taking the initiative is often what makes people successful. If we look at the lives of great leaders, people of influence, and reformers, we find that those lives are a series of positive initiatives. This is how they became so influential, and this is why they were able to have an enduring legacy. Doing a good deed in public to set a good precedent is not the same as doing it for personal fame. It is something we do purely for Allah's sake. It is not showing off to do a good deed conspicuously with the sincere intention of teaching people what is right, or for setting a good example, or for publicizing a public welfare program to make it a success. It is, in fact, a good way of calling people to Allah. Sometimes, the worst thing we can do is fail to do a good deed out of shyness or fear of being seen by others. Al-Fudayl b. `Iyâd said: "Abandoning good deeds because of the people is showing off."