Lailat-ul-Qadr - The night of Power

Lailat-ul-Qadr - The night of Power

Contributed by: Meetha Madina Group

Additions by: Maulana Ghulam Subhani

In this night (27th of Ramadan), the Holy Quran was sent down from LOH-E-MEHFOOZ (the Preserved Tablet) to the earth. Messenger of ALLAH (Blessings of Allah and peace be on him) told us to search for Shab-e-Qadr in the odd numbered nights, in the last ten days of Ramzan. So, the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th or 29th night of Ramadan could be Shab-e-Qadr.

Hazrat Aisha Radiallah Anha stated that Rasool Allah peace be upon him said, "Look for Lailat-Ul-Qadr in the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadhan." (Bukhari)

Hazrat Aisha Radiallah Anha stated that as much Rasool Allah peace be upon him tried (Ibadat) in the last Ashra (ten days) of Ramadhan, did not try in any of the Ashra." (Muslim)

Hazrat Aisha Radiallah Anha stated that I asked Rasool Allah peace be upon him, "If I find Lailatul Qadar then what should I do? HE peace be upon him said, recite this Dua."ALLAH HUMMA INNAKA A’FUVUN TOHIB BUL A'FVA FA’AFU 'ANNI" (Tirmidhi)

Dear visitors, please take advantage of this night, from sunset till sunrise. Offer nawafil (prayers), recite QUR'AAN, do repent (Istaghfar), and Pray for pardon, recite many many Salawat (Darood Sharif & Salaam) and make benediction (Dua'as).

Special DU’AA of Lailatul QADR:

"ALLAH HUMMA INNAKA A’FUVUN TOHIB BUL AFVA FA’AFU ANNI" (Tirmidhi)

"O Allah! You are the Forgiver and You like forgiving so forgive me”

21st Night of Ramadhan-Ul-Mubarak - 1st night of Laitlat-Ul-Qadr

1) Pray 4 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’t) (2 cycles of 2 raka' each).

In each raka', after Surah FATIHA recite Surah QADR (Inna anzalna .. )once and Surah IKHLAS (Qul-hu-wal-lah..) once. After completion recite SALAAT-O-SALAAM (Durood Sharif) seventy (70) times. Click here for Durood page.

Benefit: Insha Allah, Angels will pray for forgivenss for that person.

2) Offer 2 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’t)

In each raka', after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR once and Surah IKHLAS three times. After completion of this salah, recite any Astaghfar seventy times.

Astaghfar: "Allah Hummagh Fir Li Wa Tub A'laiyya Inna Ka Innta Tawwabur Raheem"OR "Astaghfirullah Rabbi Min Kulli Zambiyon Wa Atoobu ilaiyh"

Benefit: Effective for forgivness of sins.

3) In this night (21st), recite Surah QADR 21 times.

23rd Night of Ramadhan-Ul-Mubarak - 2nd night of Laitlat-Ul-Qadr

1) Offer 4 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’t) (2 sets of 2 raka’ each)

In each raka', after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR once and Surah IKHLAS three times.

Benefit: Effective for forgivness of sins.

2) Offer 8 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’) (4 sets of 2 raka’ each)

In each raka', after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR and Surah IKHLAS once. After completion of this salah (namaaz) recite the third kalima (Kalima Tamjeed) 70 times. After that, plead to Allah Almighty for forgiveness of sins.

Kalima Tamjeed: "Subhan Allahi Wal Hamdu Lillahi Wa La ilaaha illal laho Walla Hu Akbar.Wala Haowla Wala Quwwata illa Billa Hil Aliyil Azeem". Click here for Arabic text of Kalima Tamjeed.

Benefit: Allah Willing (Insha’Allah), Allah will forgive whoever performs this prayer

3) In the 23rd night recite Surah YAASEEN once and Surah RAHMAAN once.

25th Night of Ramadhan-Ul-Mubarak - 3rd night of Laitlat-Ul-Qadr

1) In this night offer 4 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’t) (2 sets of 2 raka’ each)

After Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR one time and Surah IKHLAS five times in each raka’. After completion of this salat recite the first Kalima Tayyab 100 times.

Kalima Tayyab: "Laa ilaaha illal Laho Mohammadur Rasoolullah". Click here for Arabic text of Kalima Tayyab.

Benifit: Insha Allah, Allah Tala will give him/her unlimited Sawab (good Deeds)

2) Offer 4 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’) (2 sets of 2 raka’ each)

In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR three times and Surah IKHLAS three times. After completion of this salah, recite any Astaghfar 70 times.

Astaghfar: "Allah Hummagh Fir Li Wa Tub A'laiyya Inna Ka Innta Tawwabur Raheem"OR "Astaghfirullah Rabbi Min Kulli Zambiyon Wa Atoobu ilaiyh"

Benefit: This salat is good for the pardoning of sins.

3.Offer two cycles of ritual prayer (raka’).

In each raka', after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR once and Surah IKHLAS fifteen times. After Salat, recite the second Kalima (Kalima-e-Shahaadat) 70 times.

Kalima Shaadat: "Ashadu Anlaa ilaaha illal Lahu Wa Ash Hadu Anna Mohammadan Abduhu Wa Rasoolohu". Click here for Arabic text of Kalima Shaadat.

Benefit: The reward of this namaaz is freedom from the punishment of the grave.

4) Recite Surah Dukhan. Allah Willing (Insha’Allah) they will be granted freedom from the punishment of grave.

5) Recite Surah Fath seven times. Beneficial for the fulfillment of desires and wishes.

27th Night of Ramadhan-Ul-Mubarak - 4th night of Laitlat-Ul-Qadr

1) In the 27th night, pray 12 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’) (3 set of 4 raka’ each)

In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR once and Surah IIKHLAS fifteen times. After salah recite any Astaghfar 70 times.

Astaghfar: "Allah Hummagh Fir Li Wa Tub A'laiyya Inna Ka Innta Tawwabur Raheem"OR "Astaghfirullah Rabbi Min Kulli Zambiyon Wa Atoobu ilaiyh"

Benefit: Inhsa Allah, Allah tala will give sawab equal to Ibadah of Ambiya Karam's (Messengers of Allah) Ibadah.

2) Pray two cycles of ritual prayer (raka’).

In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA recite Surah QADR 3 times and Surah IKHLAS 27 times, and plead to Allah for the forgiveness of sins.

Benefit: Allah Willing (Insha’Allah), the Allah Almighty will forgive all their previous sins.

3) Pray four cycles of ritual prayer (raka’). (2 sets of 2 raka’ each).

In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah TAKAASUR once and Surah IKHLAS three times.

Benefit: Whoever offers this salah, they will be saved from hardship at the time of death, and Allah Willing (Insha’Allah), they will be freed from the punishment of the grave.

4) Pray two cycles of ritual prayer (raka’).

In each raka’, after Surahh FATIHA, recite Surah IKHLAS seven times and after salah recite this seventy times:

"ASTAGHFIRUL LAA HAL AZEEMAL LAZEE LAA ILAAHA ILLA HUWAL HAIY YUL QAYYOOMU WA ATOOBU ILAIH"

Benfit: Before the person gets up from the praying area, Allah Almighty will pardon them and their parents, and Allah Almighty will Command the angels to adorn the Paradise for them and it is said that they will not die until they see the blessings (ne'mat) of Paradise with their own eyes.

5) Pray two cycles of ritual prayer (raka’).

In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah ALAM’NASHRAH once, Surah IKHLAS three times and after salah, recite Surah QADR 27 times.

Benefit: Effecive for unlimited Sawab of Ibadah.

6) Pray four cycles of ritual prayer (raka’). (1 set of 4 raka’).

In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA' recite Surah QADR three times and Surah IKHLAS fifty times and after completion of this salah (namaaz), recite this once in prostration (sajdah):

"SUBHAAN ALLAAHI WAL HAMDU LILLAAHI WALAA ILAAHA ILLAL LAAHU WALLAA HU AKBAR"

Benefit: After that whatever wish one may have, either worldly or religious, may be pleased. Allah Willing (Insha’Allah), their supplication will be fulfilled.

7) In this night, recite Surah Mulk 7 times. It is good for freeing from punishment.

29th Night of Ramadhan-Ul-Mubarak - 5th night of Laitlat-Ul-Qadr

1) Pray four cycles of ritual prayer (raka’). (2 sets of 2 raka’ each).

In every raka’, after Surah FATIHA recite Surah QADR once and Surahh IKHLAS three times. After salah, recite Surah ALAM’NASHRAH 70 times.

Benefit: Efective for the completion of Imaan.

2) Offer four cycles of ritual prayer (raka’). (2 sets of 2 raka’ each).

In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR once and Surah IKHLAS five times. After salah, recite SALAAT-O-SALAAM (Darood Sharif) 100 times. Click here for Durood page.

Benefit: Effective for forgiveness of sins.

3) Recite Surah WAAQIAH seven times. Beneficial for increase in Rizq.

In any night of RAMAZAN-UL-MUBARAK, after taraavih recite Surah QADR seven times. Allah Willing (Insha’Allah), the one who does so, will be saved from all troubles and afflictions.

On this great night it's of great benefit to perform Salat-Ul-Tasbih. Click here for instructions to perform Salat-ul-Tasbih.

Ramadan

Ramadan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur'an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (Between right and wrong).
(Al Qur’an, 2:185) O People! Indeed (Ramadan) is the blessed month of Allah. A month of blessing, mercy and forgiveness. A month which is the best of months. Its days are the best of days, its nights are the best of nights, and its hours are the best of hours. It is the month which invites you to be the guests of Allah and invites you to be one of those near to Him. Each breath you take glorifies him; your sleep is worship, your deeds are accepted and your supplications are answered. So, ask Allah, your Lord to give you a sound body and an enlightened heart so you may be able to fast and recite his book, for only he is unhappy who is deprived of Allah's forgiveness during this great month. Honor your old, show kindness to the young ones, guard your tongues, close your eyes to that which is not permissible for your sight and close your ears to that which is forbidden to hear. Repent to Allah for your sins and raise your hands in dua during these times, for they are the best of times and Allah looks towards his creatures with kindness, replying to them during the hours and granting their needs if he is asked.

O People! Indeed your souls are dependant on your deeds, free it with Istaghfar (repentance) lighten its loads by long prostrations (sajda); and know that Allah swears by his might: That there is no punishment for the one who prays and prostrates and he shall have no fear of the fire on the day or Judgment. The one who spreads his kindness, Allah will spread His mercy over him on the day of Judgment. Who so ever performs a recommended prayer in this month Allah will keep the fire of hell away from him. Whoever performs an obligator prayer Allah will reward him with seventy prayers (worth) in this month. Who ever prays a lot during this month will have his load lightened on the day of Judgment. He who recites one verse of the Holy Qur’an will be given the rewards of reciting the whole Qur’an during other months.

O People! Indeed during this month the doors of heaven are open, therefore ask Allah not to close them for you; The doors of hell are closed, so ask Allah to keep them closed for you. During this month Shaitaan (Satan) is imprisoned so ask your Lord not to let him have power over you.

(Source: The Prophet's Sermon)

RAMADAN FACTS

Who Must Fast?

· Fasting is compulsory for those who are mentally and physically fit, past the age of puberty, in a settled situation (not traveling), and are sure fasting is unlikely to cause real physical or mental injury.

Exemptions from Fasting (some exemptions are optional)

· Children under the age of puberty (Young children are encouraged to fast as much as they are able.)
· People who are mentally incapacitated or not responsible for their actions
· The elderly
· The sick
· Travelers who are on journeys of more than about fifty miles
· Pregnant women and nursing mothers
· Women who are menstruating
· Those who are temporarily unable to fast must make up the missed days at another time or feed the poor.

Special Events

· Special prayers, called taraweeh, are performed after the daily nighttime prayer.
· Lailat ul-Qadr ("Night of Power" or "Night of Destiny") marks the anniversary of the night on which the Prophet Muhammad first began receiving revelations from God, through the angel Gabriel. Muslims believe Lailat ul-Qadr is one of the last odd-numbered nights of Ramadan.

Traditional Practices

· Breaking the daily fast with a drink of water and dates
· Reading the entire Quran during Ramadan
· Social visits are encouraged.

Eid ul-Fitr ("Festival of Fast-Breaking") Prayers at the End of Ramadan

· Eid begins with special morning prayers on the first day of Shawwal, the month following Ramadan on the Islamic lunar calendar.
· It is forbidden to perform an optional fast during Eid because it is a time for relaxation.
· During Eid Muslims greet each other with the phrase "taqabbalallah ta'atakum," or "may God accept your deeds" and "Eid Mubarak" (eed-moo-bar-ak), meaning "blessed Eid."


RAMADAN Q&A

Q: How did the fast during Ramadan become obligatory for Muslims?
A: The revelations from God to the Prophet Muhammad that would eventually be compiled as the Quran began during Ramadan in the year 610, but the fast of Ramadan did not become a religious obligation for Muslims until the year 624. The obligation to fast is explained in the second chapter of the Quran:
"O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint...Ramadan is the (month) in which was sent down the Quran, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (between right and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting..." (Chapter 2, verses 183 and 185)

Q: What do Muslims believe they gain from fasting?
A: One of the main benefits of Ramadan are an increased compassion for those in need of the necessities of life, a sense of self-purification and reflection and a renewed focus on spirituality. Muslims also appreciate the feeling of togetherness shared by family and friends throughout the month. Perhaps the greatest practical benefit is the yearly lesson in self-restraint and discipline that can carry forward to other aspects of a Muslim's life such as work and education.

Q: Why does Ramadan begin on a different day each year?
A: Because Ramadan is a lunar month, it begins about eleven days earlier each year. Throughout a Muslim's lifetime, Ramadan will fall both during winter months, when the days are short, and summer months, when the days are long and the fast is more difficult. In this way, the difficulty of the fast is evenly distributed between Muslims living in the northern and southern hemispheres.

Q: What is Lailat ul-Qadr?
A: Lailat ul-Qadr ("Night of Power") marks the anniversary of the night on which the Prophet Muhammad first began receiving revelations from God, through the angel Gabriel. An entire chapter in the Quran deals with this night: "We have indeed revealed this (Message) in the Night of Power: and what will explain to thee what the Night of Power is? The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. Therein come down the angels and the Spirit by God's permission, on every errand. Peace!...This until the rise of morn." (Chapter 97) Muslims believe Lailat ul-Qadr is one of the last odd-numbered nights of Ramadan.

Q: Is it difficult to perform the fast in America?
A: In many ways, fasting in American society is easier than fasting in areas where the climate is extremely hot. This year at least, the number of daylight hours will be less than when Ramadan occurs during the spring or summer. In Muslim countries, most people are observing the fast, so there are fewer temptations such as luncheon meetings, daytime celebrations and offers of food from friends. Many American Muslims would prefer a daytime work shift during Ramadan so that they may break the fast with their families and attend evening prayers.

Q: How can non-Muslim co-workers and friends help someone who is fasting?
A: Employers, co-workers and teachers can help by understanding the significance of Ramadan and by showing a willingness to make minor allowances for its physical demands. Special consideration can be given to such things as requests for vacation time, the need for flexible early morning or evening work schedules and lighter homework assignments. It is also very important that Muslim workers and students be given time to attend Eid prayers at the end of Ramadan. Eid is as important to Muslims as Christmas and Yom Kippur are to Christians and Jews. A small token such as a card (there are Eid cards available from Muslim bookstores) or baked goods given to a Muslim co-worker during Eid ul-Fitr would also be greatly appreciated. Hospital workers should be aware that injections and oral medications might break the fast. Patients should be given the opportunity to decide whether or not their condition exempts them from fasting.

Q: Do people normally lose weight during Ramadan?
A: Some people do lose weight, but others may not. It is recommended that meals eaten during Ramadan be light, but most people can't resist sampling special sweets and foods associated with Ramadan.


Q&A ABOUT ISLAM AND AMERICAN MUSLIMS

Q: What is Islam?
A: Islam is not a new religion. It is the same truth that God revealed to all His prophets (Adam, Noah, Moses, Jesus, etc.) throughout history. Islam is both a religion and a complete way of life. Muslims follow a religion of peace, mercy and forgiveness.

Q: Who are Muslims and what do they believe?
A: Muslims believe in One, Unique, and Incomparable God, creator of the universe. They believe in the Day of Judgement and individual accountability for actions. Muslims believe in a chain of prophets beginning with Adam and including Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Job, Moses, David, Solomon, and Jesus. God's eternal message was reaffirmed and finalized by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be on them all). One becomes a Muslim by saying, "There is no deity but God, and Muhammad is the messenger of God." By this declaration, the person announces faith in all of God's messengers. There are an estimated 1.2 billion Muslims worldwide. No more than 20 percent of Muslims live in the Arabic-speaking world. The country with the largest Muslim population is Indonesia.

Q: What is the Quran?
A: The Quran is the record of the exact words revealed by God through the Angel Gabriel to the Prophet Muhammad in Arabic. It was memorized by Muhammad and then dictated to his companions. The text of the Quran was cross-checked during the life of the Prophet. The 114 chapters of the Quran have remained unchanged through the centuries. Translations of the meaning of the Quran exist in almost all languages.

Q: What are the "Five Pillars" of Islam?
A:
1) The Declaration of Faith - This consists of the two sentence declaration described above.
2) Prayer - Muslims perform five obligatory prayers each day. Islamic prayers are a direct link between the worshiper and God. Islam has no hierarchical authority or priesthood. A learned Muslim chosen by each congregation leads the prayers.
3) Zakat - One of the most important principles of Islam is that all things belong to God and that wealth is held in trust by human beings. Zakat, or charitable giving, "purifies" wealth by setting aside a portion for those in need. This payment is usually two and a half percent of one's capital.
4) Fasting - Every year in the Islamic lunar month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from first light until sunset. The fast is another method of self-purification.
5) Pilgrimage - A pilgrimage to Mecca, or Hajj, is an obligation for those who are physically or financially able.

Q: What about the American Muslim community?
A: There are an estimated 7 million Muslims in America. The Muslim community in America is made up of people from a wide variety of ethnic backgrounds and national origins. There are almost 2,000 mosques, Islamic schools and Islamic centers in America. Muslims are active in all walks of life. Islam is one of the fastest growing religions in this country and around the world.

Q: What about Muslim women?
A: Under Islamic law, women have always had the right to own
property, receive an education and otherwise take part in community life. Men and women are to be respected equally. The Islamic rules for modest dress apply to both women and men equally. (Men cannot expose certain parts of their bodies, wear gold or silk, etc.) If a particular society oppresses women, it does so in spite of Islam, not because of it.

Q: What is Jihad?
A: "Jihad" does not mean "holy war." Literally, jihad means to strive, struggle and exert effort. It is a central and broad Islamic concept that includes struggle against evil inclinations within oneself, struggle to improve the quality of life in society, struggle in the battlefield for self-defense (e.g., - having a standing army for national defense), or fighting against tyranny or oppression.


ISLAM IN AMERICA --- THE FACTS

FACT 1
There are an estimated 7 million Muslims in America. The Muslim community in America is made up of people from a wide variety of ethnic backgrounds and national origins.

FACT 2
The worldwide population of Muslims is 1.2 billion.

FACT 3
Islam is one of the fastest growing religions in this country and around the world.

FACT 4
Demographers say that Islam will soon be the number two religion in America. (This may have already occurred.)

FACT 5
Demographers also say that by the year 2025, one in four people on earth will be a Muslim.

FACT 6
There are more than 2,000 mosques, Islamic schools and Islamic centers in America. Muslims are active in all walks of life.

TERMS AND CONCEPTS
Allah - Allah is the Arabic word for "God." It is the same word Arabic-speaking Christians use when referring to God. Allah is not the "Muslim God," but is the same God worshipped by Christians and Jews. Fundamentalist - Muslims view the label "fundamentalist" as stereotypical and ill defined. Muslims also object to the use of terms such as "radical" and "extremist." These terms lack definition and are seen as pejorative. More neutral and objective terms include "Islamist" or "Islamic activist." If the person in question is involved in a criminal act, name that act, not the faith of the person who commits the crime. Jihad - "Jihad" does not mean "holy war." Literally, jihad means to strive, struggle and exert effort. It is a central and broad Islamic concept that includes struggle against evil inclinations within oneself, struggle to improve the quality of life in society, struggle in the battlefield for self-defense (e.g., - having a standing army for national defense), or fighting against tyranny or oppression. The equivalent of the term "holy war" in Arabic is "harb muqaddasah," a term that cannot be found in the Quran or the Prophet's sayings (hadith). There is no such thing as "holy war" in Islam, as some careless translators may imply.

It is rather a loaded medieval concept that did not arise from within the Muslim community. Because of this myth's frequent repetition, most people in the West accept it as if it were a fact. Black Muslims - This term, first used to describe the followers of the late Elijah Muhammad, the founder of the Nation of Islam, is no longer accurate when used to describe African-American Muslims. Minister Louis Farrakhan does not represent the Muslim community in America.

Muslim/Arab - Not all Muslims are Arab, just as not all Arabs are Muslim. In fact, Arabs are a minority within the Islamic world. According to modern usage, "Arab" is a linguistic, not an ethnic, designation. An Arab can be Christian or Jewish.
Women's Rights - Under Islamic law, women have always had the right to own property, receive an education and otherwise take part in community life. The Islamic rules for modest dress apply to women and men equally. (Men cannot expose certain parts of their bodies, wear gold or silk, etc.) If a particular society oppresses women, it does so in spite of Islam, not because of it. Arabic Names - Compound Arabic last names, such as "Abd Al-Wahid," which often refer to attributes of God, should be used in full on second reference. If the second reference referred to "Al-Wahid," that person would be taking on an attribute of God ("the One"), something a Muslim would abhor.

MOSQUES


Q: WHAT IS A MOSQUE?
A: A mosque is a place of worship used by Muslims. The English word "mosque" is derived from its Arabic equivalent, masjid, which means "place of prostration." It is in the mosque that Muslims perform their prayers, a part of which includes placing the forehead on the floor.

Q: HOW IS A MOSQUE USED?
A: Mosques play a vital role in the lives of Muslims in North America. The primary function of the mosque is to provide a place where Muslims may perform Islam's obligatory five daily prayers as a congregation. A mosque also provides sufficient space in which to hold prayers on Fridays, the Muslim day of communal prayer, and on the two Muslim holidays, called Eids, or "festivals."

Q: IS A MOSQUE A HOLY PLACE?
A: A mosque is a place that is specifically dedicated as a place of prayer. However, there is nothing sacred about the building or the place itself. There is no equivalent of an altar in a mosque. A Muslim may pray on any clean surface. Muslims often pray in public places.

Q: HOW BIG ARE MOSQUES?
A: In North America, mosques vary in size from tiny storefronts serving a handful of worshippers, to large Islamic centers that can accommodate thousands.

Q: DO MOSQUES WELCOME VISITORS?
A: Mosques in North America welcome visitors. Tours can be arranged at most facilities. It is always best to call mosque administrators before arrival. They will want to make sure your visit is enjoyable.

Q: WHAT ARE THE DISTINCTIVE FEATURES OF A MOSQUE?
A: The musalla, or prayer hall, in each mosque is oriented in the direction of Mecca, toward which Muslims face during prayers. In North America, Muslim worshippers face northeast. Prayer halls are open and uncluttered to accommodate lines of worshippers who stand and bow in unison. There are no pews or chairs. Members of the congregation sit on the floor.

Because Muslim men and women form separate lines when they stand in prayers, some mosques will have a balcony reserved for the use of women. Other mosques will accommodate men and women in the same musalla, or they may have two separate areas for men and women.

Q: WHAT ELSE IS IN THE PRAYER AREA?
A: All mosques have some sort of mihrab, or niche, that indicates which wall of the mosque faces Mecca. The mihrab is often decorated with Arabic calligraphy. Its curved shape helps reflect the voice of the imam, or prayer leader, back toward the congregation. Many mosques also have a minbar, or pulpit, to the right of the mihrab. During the Friday prayer service, the imam delivers a sermon from the minbar.

Q: WHAT ABOUT CHILDREN IN THE PRAYER AREA?
A: Children will often be present during prayers, whether
participating, watching or imitating the movements of their elders. Their presence continues the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad, who behaved tenderly toward children. The Prophet sometimes carried one of his grandchildren on his shoulder while leading the prayer and was also known to shorten the prayer if he heard a baby cry.

Q: WHAT MIGHT I HEAR DURING MY VISIT?
A: You might hear Muslims exchanging the Islamic greeting, the Arabic phrase "as-salaam alaykum" ("peace be with you"). Muslims return this greeting by saying, "wa alaykum as-salaam" ("and with you be peace").

You might also hear the call to prayer. The call, or adhan, contains the following phrases (in Arabic):
God is most great, God is most great.
God is most great, God is most great.
I bear witness that there is no god but God.
I bear witness that there is no god but God.
I bear witness that Muhammad is a messenger of God.
I bear witness that Muhammad is a messenger of God.
Hasten to prayer, Hasten to prayer.
Hasten to success, Hasten to success.
God is most great, God is most great.
There is no god but [the One] God.

All Muslim prayers begin with recitation of Al-Fatihah, the opening chapter of the Qur'an:
In the name of God, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful.
Praise be to God, Lord of the Worlds.
The Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful.
Ruler of the Day of Judgment.
Only You do we worship, Only You we ask for help.
Show us the straight path.
The path of those whom You have favored,
not that of those who earn Your anger, nor those who go astray.

Q: WHAT ABOUT THE REST OF THE BUILDING?
A: Many mosques have a minaret, the large tower used to issue the call to prayer five times each day. In North America, the minaret is largely decorative. Facilities to perform wudu, or ablutions, can be found in all mosques. Muslims wash their hands, faces and feet before prayers as a way to purify and prepare themselves to stand before God. Wudu facilities range from wash basins to specially designed areas with built-in benches, floor drains and faucets.

Bookshelves are found in most mosques. They contain works of Islamic philosophy, theology and law, as well as collections of the traditions and sayings of the Prophet Muhammad. Copies of the Quran, Islam's revealed text, are always available to worshippers.

Calligraphy is used to decorate nearly every mosque. Arabic
quotations from the Quran invite contemplation of the revealed Word of God. Other common features found in the mosque are clocks or schedules displaying the times of the five daily prayers and large rugs or carpets covering the musalla floor. Many American mosques also have administrative offices.

Q: IS A MOSQUE USED EXCLUSIVELY FOR PRAYER?
A: Though its main function is as a place of prayer, the mosque plays a variety of roles, especially in North America. Many mosques are associated with Islamic schools and day care centers. Mosques also provide diverse services such as Sunday schools, Arabic classes, Quranic instruction, and youth activities.

Marriages and funerals, potluck dinners during the fasting month of Ramadan, and Eid prayers and carnivals are all to be found in North American mosques. They are also sites for interfaith dialogues and community activism.

Many mosques serve as recreational centers for the Muslim community and may have a gymnasium, game room and weight equipment, as well as a library and classrooms.

Q: DO MOSQUES HAVE SPECIAL RULES?
A: Men and women should always dress conservatively when visiting a mosque, covering their arms and legs. Examples of inappropriate clothing would be shorts for men and short skirts for women.

Shoes are always left at the entrance to the prayer area so as not to soil the rugs or carpets. Shelves are usually provided to hold shoes. Women may be asked to cover their hair when visiting a mosque. Many mosques have scarves on hand for visitors to borrow, but it is better to bring a head covering in case none are available.

Visitors to mosques should behave as they would when visiting any religious institution, but they should feel free to ask questions about the mosque, its architecture, furnishings, and activities. Muslims are happy to answer questions about their religion.

Special thanks to The Washington Report on Middle East Affairs and Greg Noakes for permission to use the article, "Mosque a Vital Part of Islamic Life," in the preparation of this material.

HADITHS ABOUT TARAAWIH IN RAMADAN

HADITHS ABOUT TARAAWIH IN RAMADAN

Hadith fom Sahi Bukhari:
Narrated Zaid bin Thabit: Allah's Apostle made a small room (with a palm leaf mat). Allah's Apostle came out (of his house) and prayed in it. Some men came and joined him in his prayer. Then again the next night they came for the prayer, but Allah's Apostle delayed and did not come out to them. So they raised their voices and knocked the door with small stones (to draw his attention). He came out to them in a state of anger, saying, "You are still insisting (on your deed, i.e. tarawih prayer in the mosque) that I thought that this prayer (tarawih) might become obligatory on you. So you people, offer this prayer at your homes, for the best prayer of a person is the one which he offers at home, except the compulsory (congregational) prayer." (Book #73, Hadith #134)

Hadith fom Sahi Bukhari:
Narrated Zaid bin Thabit: The Prophet took a room made of date palm leaves mats in the mosque. Allah's Apostle prayed in it for a few nights till the people gathered (to pray the night prayer (tarawih) (behind him.) Then on the 4th night the people did not hear his voice and they thought he had slept, so some of them started humming in order that he might come out. The Prophet then said, "You continued doing what I saw you doing till I was afraid that this (tarawih prayer) might be enjoined on you, and if it were enjoined on you, you would not continue performing it. Therefore, O people! Perform your prayers at your homes, for the best prayer of a person is what is performed at his home except the compulsory congregational) prayer." (See Hadith No. 229,Vol. 3) (See Hadith No. 134, Vol. 8) (Book #92, Hadith #393)

RAMADHAN OPPORTUNITY

The great month of Ramadhan is upon us; the month, during which the gates of mercy are wide open, the gates of hell are shut and the shayateen are chained up. It is a month chosen by Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) as a month of fasting; an act of ibadat that Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) made special to Him. He (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) favoured this month over all other months by making it the month of mercy and reverence for all the believers. This month is the most superior of months in which Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) revealed the Qur'an. Also, in this month were revealed the scriptures of Ibrahim (as) and Musa (as), as well as the Zabuur and the Injeel.

It is natural within this month for the Muslims to increase their good deeds in order to gain the vast reward of Ramadhan and get closer to Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala).This is something that has occurred throughout history and is a positive sign that the flame of Islam still burns brightly in the hearts of Muslims worldwide.

All mature Muslims are obligated to fast within this month from dawn to sunset abstaining from food and drink. The hunger and thirst that is felt during the day is automatically connected in our minds to the reason as to why we are fasting, as a worship of Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala).

Unfortunately, for some amongst us, instead of being a month of increasing ones good deeds on top of the obligations we consistently perform, we find today that for many it is a month of only temporary change. Unheard of in the early days of Islam, today we have the phenomenon of the 'Ramadhan Muslim' - one who is Muslim in name but only Muslim in action for one month in the year.

The examples of such individuals are numerous, to the extent that it has become a norm amongst Muslims in the West to find a contingent of 'Ramadhan Muslims' within them. These are Muslims who usually practise little of Islam but suddenly transform in this holy month into actively practising Muslims. They begin to perform their Salah, are careful of their speech, control their tempers, lower their gaze and increase their remembrance of Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala). On top of the obligatory actions, people even compete in the recommended ones such as tarawih salah and recitation of the Qur’an, such that the mosques are full at many times during the day.

Haram (prohibited) actions are also avoided by many during Ramadhan, the talk of which also suddenly becomes taboo. Young Muslim friends would even shun talking to each other about 'clubbing', 'spliffing' or chasing after the opposite sex even though these are popular pastimes for the same people throughout the rest of the year.

Examples of the 'Ramadhan Muslim' can be seen amongst both the youth and the elders alike. Some of the elders put away their lottery cards, refrain from backbiting, and are much more controlled with their temper towards their children or spouses during Ramadhan.

And when Ramadhan ends on the day of Eid, it is unfortunately all too common to see all the good that was witnessed in the holy month to be rapidly reversed. The headscarves come off the women, the 'rizla' and the 'weed' comes out for many youngsters, the tempers flare, the mosques are again empty, the Qur’an is left on the shelf, the clubbing, partying, tribal squabbles, and promiscuity restarts.

This demonstrates clearly that Ramadhan has not truly been understood by many Muslims. It is sad to see Ramadhan treated as people of other religions treat their religious occasions, in a manner which only temporarily alters their actions.

Why?

It is no mystery as to why many Muslims have become like this. This part-time attitude to religion is enshrined in the society in which we live. In the view of the West religion is meant to be a personal matter that is limited to a set of rituals and morals that should not play a part in the rest of our lives.

Many Muslims would openly declare their belief in Islam yet at the same time have adopted this corrupt notion that relegates Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) and the Qur’an to one month in the year or only to personal worship. A Muslim who treats Ramadhan and Islam in this manner resembles the Christian who acts as he pleases and attends the church on Sunday or during Lent expecting to be forgiven.

People who hold this notion will often feel very emotional during Ramadhan and will spend hours during prayer and supplication. Some even cover up the television seeing it as an evil. They often feel guilty for actions throughout the year such as their illicit relationships or interaction with the opposite sex, their backbiting, mortgage on their house, missing of salah, interest based loans, foul language or neglect of their parents or children. Going into a mode of submission during Ramadhan is an attempt to exonerate themselves and is a way to boost themselves with some 'spiritual energy'. The effect is temporary and after Ramadhan the actions and together with them the guilt returns.

The uneasiness and guilt is bound to remain with such people. As to believe on one hand that we have been created by our Lord, Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) and that our clear purpose in life is to worship Him and on the other hand to completely disregard this belief in the rest of life would naturally leave an individual at unease.

This is the true dilemma of the 'Ramadhan Muslim', a mixed, confused personality torn between Islam and the secular Western values. It is a personality lacking distinctiveness and direction.

We need to be true to ourselves and ask the following serious questions:

Do we believe the Qur’an that was revealed in this month by the Creator of the universe is a book of guidance only for this month or partial aspects of our lives?

Do we think that fasting in this month and then returning to the neglect of the Islamic duties will grant us forgiveness? Is this the basis by which we convince ourselves that it is fine to be distant from Islam for the rest of the year?

The true meaning of Ramadhan

Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) says:

ÔóåúÑõ ÑóãóÖóÇäó ÇáøóÐöíó ÃõäÒöáó Ýöíåö ÇáúÞõÑúÂäõ åõÏðì áøöáäøóÇÓö
æóÈóíøöäóÇÊò ãøöäó ÇáúåõÏóì æóÇáúÝõÑúÞóÇäö
"Ramadhan is the month in which the Qur’an was revealed, a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance and as a criterion (al-Furqan)" [TMQ Al Baqarah: 185]

We should realise that the deen has come to regulate the dunya. Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) revealed the Qur’an within this blessed month so that it acts as al-Furqan, the criterion between right and wrong for all of our actions throughout the twelve months of the year.

Islam is different to Christianity, Judaism and all the other religions, for it is the true Deen, a complete way of life with detailed shari'ah rules and solutions to all of life's problems. Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) has revealed to us not only how to fast, He (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) has also given us details for how to trade in a halal way avoiding riba (interest) and all haram contracts, how to live in the West without becoming integrated into the society and adopting its corrupt values, how to bring up and educate our children and guard them from the kufr culture that the society bombards them with, how the houses of Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) - the mosques should be a centre for Islam that are open to the young and old rather than being places that turn people away. Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) has revealed to us detailed rules for all issues just as He (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) revealed to us how to fast and perform the recommended acts during the month of Ramadhan.

Ramadhan should be a month for us to increase our remembrance of Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) rather than a month of temporary obedience to His (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) orders. Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) says,

íóÇ ÃóíøõåóÇ ÇáøóÐöíäó ÂãóäõæÇú ßõÊöÈó Úóáóíúßõãõ ÇáÕøöíóÇãõ ßóãóÇ
ßõÊöÈó Úóáóì ÇáøóÐöíäó ãöä ÞóÈúáößõãú áóÚóáøóßõãú ÊóÊøóÞõæä
"Oh you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you many gain Taqwa" [TMQ Al Baqarah:183]

Taqwa comes from the word 'waqiya', which means to protect. It is protection from the anger of Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) and His (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) punishment. This is why taqwa is used to describe the performing of actions, which pleases Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) and abstaining from all actions that displeases Him (Subhanahu wa ta’aala).

Taqwa in essence means God consciousness, being conscious of Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) in all our actions and affairs. Fasting should aid us in gaining taqwa, as it puts us in an atmosphere of obedience to Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala), every time we feel hunger during the fast or fatigue, we know that we are doing it for the obedience of Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala). It makes us realise our relationship with Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala).

Umar ibn al Khattab (ra) once looked at those praying and said, "The great number of times any of you raises and lowers his head does not deceive me. The [real] deen is being cautious and meticulous in the deen of Allah, and refraining from what Allah has forbidden, and acting according to what Allah permits and forbids."

The son of 'Ali (ra), Al-Hasan (ra) once said, "The people who have taqwa (al-muttaqoon) are the people who avoided whatever Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) has prohibited and have done whatever Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) has ordained."

'Umar ibn Abdul Aziz (ra) once said, "Taqwa is not by fasting the day and not by praying the night. And it is not by mixing between the two of them.But taqwa is leaving what Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) has made haram and by doing what Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) has made fard. After one has done this, Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) will provide good things for that person."

Ibn Juzayy said in his dictionary of terms from the introduction to his tafsir:

"Taqwa's meaning is fear, clinging to obedience to Allah and abandoning disobedience to Him. It is the sum of all good."

To achieve taqwa and avoid the label of the 'Ramadhan Muslim' we must have a solid foundation. We must base our belief on conviction, clearly comprehending the fact that Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) is the Creator of the universe and linking that realisation to our actions. Our belief is unlike the belief of the Christians and other faiths which have no proof for them. The existence of Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) and the definitiveness of the Qur’an are facts to us just as we believe that fire burns. To achieve this belief we must apply the mind that Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) has given us rather than just imitating others blindly without any comprehension.

Ibn Abbas (ra) said, "The light of Iman is thinking".

Contemplating upon the dates which we break our fasts with and the hunger which we feel during our fast is enough to lead us to conclude that we are needy and dependent upon a creator. The entire universe and whatever it contains is proof enough for the existence of Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) and smashes the myths of the theory of evolution or the 'big bang'.

The Qur’an which we recite during this month is not a book like any other, written by men. It is a miracle proving beyond any doubt the truthfulness of Islam. Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) challenges all humanity to produce even one chapter like it which mankind has failed to achieve. Even America with the billions of dollars it spends in fighting Islam, all it has to do is to produce one chapter (Surah) similar to the Qur’an for all the 1.5 billion Muslims to apostatise and leave Islam. It has failed, as will all those who attempt the impossible. For the challenge of the Qur’an has been set by Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala).

Possessing an unshakeable belief allows the Muslim to accept his position as the slave of Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) and enables him to submit completely to all the commands and prohibitions, thus attaining taqwa.

It is linking the realisation of Allah's existence to our actions that shapes the Islamic personality. The Muslim does not consider his own benefit or pleasure as factors in deciding right or wrong, so he will fast the long day, wake up early in the morning for fajr salah, share his food with others, avoid temptations andindecency, avoid Haram and tirelessly engage in the da'wah to resume the Islamic way of life. This selflessness is what completely defies the West who are obsessed with following their lusts and personal desires.

Islam should flow in our veins such that we think and feel according to it. This is what allowed the Muslims to stand firm in the battle of Badr in the second year after the Hijra. On a Friday, morning the 17th of Ramadhan the Prophet (salAllahu alaihi wasallam) led the Muslims outnumbered 3 to 1, 305 believers defeated an army of over 900 kuffar. The Quraysh were humiliated and the Muslims were victorious.

It was this conviction that shaped the personalities of Muslims throughout the ages such that our history is full of examples of strength, courage, determination and enlightenment.

It is this belief and understanding that allowed the Muslims under the leadership of Tariq ibn Ziyad to liberate Spain during Ramadhan, Ninety-two years after the Hijrah. It was also in this month of sacrifice in 1187 (CE) that Salahaddin Ayyubi defeated the Crusaders. On this day the Muslims virtually routed all the local Crusader forces capable of defending the Crusaders establishment in the Near East. With a 12,000 strong cavalry they defeated the Crusaders and re-took al-Quds back into its rightful hands.

Benefiting from Ramadhan

Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) has allowed each and everyone of us to witness again the month of Ramadhan that we may benefit from it by drawing closer to Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala), by making sincere repentance, and seeking His mercy and forgiveness. For those of us who are 'Ramadhan Muslims' we must let this Ramadhan be a time of true change where we completely mould our personalities according to Islam so that we will remain steadfast for the whole of our lives. For those of us who are already practising Islam let it be a time where we redouble our efforts, attain the reward and strengthen our relationship with Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala).

Indeed the one who fails to benefit from the month of Ramadhan is one of the losers, and deserves to be distanced from Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala).

The Prophet (salAllahu alaihi wasallam) said,

ÇáÕíÇã ÌäÉ íÓÊÌíÑ ÈåÇ ÇáÚÈÏ ãä ÇáäÇÑ
"Fasting is a shield with which a servant protects himself from the fire." [Ahmad]

Abu Hurairah reported that the Prophet (salAllahu alaihi wasallam), climbed upon the minbar and said:

Âãíä Âãíä Âãíä Þíá íÇ ÑÓæá Çááå Åäß Ííä ÕÚÏÊ
ÇáãäÈÑ ÞáÊ Âãíä Âãíä Âãíä ÞÇá Åä ÌÈÑíá ÃÊÇäí ÝÞÇá ãä
ÃÏÑß ÔåÑ ÑãÖÇä æáã íÛÝÑ áå ÝÏÎá ÇáäÇÑ ÝÃÈÚÏå Çááå
Þá Âãíä ÝÞáÊ Âãíä æãä ÃÏÑß ÃÈæíå Ãæ ÃÍÏåãÇ Ýáã íÈÑåãÇ
ÝãÇÊ ÝÏÎá ÇáäÇÑ ÝÃÈÚÏå Çááå Þá Âãíä ÝÞáÊ Âãíä æãä
ÐßÑÊ ÚäÏå Ýáã íÕá Úáíß ÝãÇÊ ÝÏÎá ÇáäÇÑ ÝÃÈÚÏå
Çááå Þá Âãíä ÝÞáÊ Âãíä
"Ameen, ameen, ameen". So it was said, "O Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alaihi wasallam), you climbed upon the minbar and said, "Ameen, ameen, ameen"? So He (salAllahu alaihi wasallam) said "Jibreel came to me and said, 'Whoever reaches the month of Ramadhan and does not have his sins forgiven and so enters the fire, then may Allah distance him, say ameen" So I said "Ameen" [Ibn Khuzaimah, Ahmad & al-Baihaqi].

The Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alaihi wasallam) said,

ÑãÖÇä ÃÊÇßã ÑãÖÇä ÔåÑ ÈÑßÉ íÛäíßã Çááå Ýíå ÝíäÒá
ÇáÑÍãÉ æíÍØ ÇáÎØÇíÇ æíÓÊÌíÈ Ýíå ÇáÏÚÇÁ íäÙÑ Çááå Åáì
äÝÇíÓßã æíÈÇåí Èßã ãáÇÆßÊå ÝÃÑæÇ Çááå ãä ÃäÝÓßã ÎíÑÇ
ÝÅä ÇáÔÞí ãä ÍÑã Ýíå ÑÍãÉ Çááå ÚÒ æÌá
"Ramadhan has come to you. (It is) a month of blessing, in which Allah covers you with blessing, for He sends down mercy, decreases sins and answers prayers. In it, Allah looks at your competition (in good deeds), and boasts about you to His angels. So show Allah goodness from yourselves, for the unfortunate one is he who is deprived in (this month) of the mercy of Allah, the mighty, the exalted." [Tabarani]

The Prophet (salAllahu alaihi wasallam) said:

ãä ÃäÝÞ ÒæÌíä Ýí ÓÈíá Çááå äæÏí Ýí ÇáÌäÉ íÇ
ÚÈÏ Çááå åÐÇ ÎíÑ Ýãä ßÇä ãä Ãåá ÇáÕáÇÉ ÏÚí
ãä ÈÇÈ ÇáÕáÇÉ æãä ßÇä ãä Ãåá ÇáÌåÇÏ ÏÚí
ãä ÈÇÈ ÇáÌåÇÏ æãä ßÇä ãä Ãåá ÇáÕÏÞÉ ÏÚí
ãä ÈÇÈ ÇáÕÏÞÉ æãä ßÇä ãä Ãåá ÇáÕíÇã ÏÚí
ãä ÈÇÈ ÇáÑíÇä ÞÇá ÃÈæ ÈßÑ ÇáÕÏíÞ íÇ ÑÓæá Çááå
ãÇ Úáì ÃÍÏ íÏÚì ãä Êáß ÇáÃÈæÇÈ ãä ÖÑæÑÉ
Ýåá íÏÚì ÃÍÏ ãä Êáß ÇáÃÈæÇÈ ßáåÇ ÞÇá ÑÓæá
Çááå Õáì Çááå Úáíå æÓáã äÚã æÃÑÌæ Ãä Êßæä ãäåã
"He who is amongst those who pray will be called from the gate of the prayer (in paradise) and he who is from the people of jihad will be called from the gate of jihad, and he who is from those' who give in charity (i.e. zakat) will be called from the gate of charity, and he who is amongst those who observe fast will be called from the gate of fasting, the gate of raiyan." Abu Bakr said, "He who is called from all those gates will need nothing," He added, "Will anyone be called from all those gates, O Allah's Apostle?" He said, "Yes, and I hope you will be among those, O Abu Bakr." [Bukhari]

Abu Said al-Khudri reported that the Messenger of Allah, said: "No servant fasts on a day in the path of Allah except that Allah removes the hellfire seventy years further away from his face." [This is related by "the group," except for Abu Dawud]

Abdullah ibn `Amr reported that the Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alaihi wasallam), said:

ÇáÕíÇã æÇáÞÑÂä íÔÝÚÇä íæã ÇáÞíÇãÉ ááÚÈÏ íÞæá
ÇáÕíÇã Ãí ÑÈ ãäÚÊå ÇáØÚÇã æÇáÔåæÉ ÝÔÝÚäí Ýíå
æíÞæá ÇáÞÑÂä ãäÚÊå Çáäæã ÈÇááíá ÝÔÝÚäí Ýíå ÞÇá
ÝíÔÝÚÇä áå
"The fast and the Qur'an are two intercessors for the servant of Allah on the Day of Resurrection. The fast will say: 'O Lord, I prevented him from his food and desires during the day. Let me intercede for him.' The Qur'an will say: 'I prevented him from sleeping at night. Let me intercede for him.' And their intercession will be accepted." [Ahmad]

Abu Umamah reported:

íÇ ÑÓæá Çááå ãÑäí ÈÚãá ÞÇá Úáíß ÈÇáÕæã ÝÅäå
áÇ ÚÏá áå ÞáÊ íÇ ÑÓæá Çááå ãÑäí ÈÚãá ÞÇá Úáíß
ÈÇáÕæã ÝÅäå áÇ ÚÏá áå
"I came to the Messenger of Allah and said: 'Order me to do a deed that will allow me to enter Paradise.' He said: 'Stick to fasting, as there is no equivalent to it.' Then I came to him again and he said: 'Stick to fasting."' [Ahmad, an-Nasa'i, and al-Hakim]

Let us ensure that we take heed from the words of our master, Muhammad (salAllahu alaihi wasallam) who said,

ãä áã íÏÚ Þæá ÇáÒæÑ æÇáÚãá Èå ÝáíÓ ááå
ÍÇÌÉ Ýí Ãä íÏÚ ØÚÇãå æÔÑÇÈå
"Whosoever does not stop saying and acting upon falsehood, Allah’s (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) in no need for them to abandon their food." [Bukhari]

This narration from our beloved Prophet (salAllahu alaihi wasallam) should serve as a stark warning to all those who stick to Islam during Ramadhan and then abandon it after the day of Eid ul Fitr.

Recommended Actions

For the one who has taqwa sticking to the minimum of performing the obligations and refraining from the prohibitions does not seem enough as he continuously wants to develop his personality in order to gain the pleasure of Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala). The month of Ramadhan is full of opportunities to gain the extra reward by undertaking the acts that please Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala).

The Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alaihi wasallam) addressed his companions on the last day of Sha`ban, saying,

ÃíåÇ ÇáäÇÓ ÞÏ ÃÙáßã ÔåÑ ÚÙíã ÔåÑ ãÈÇÑß ÔåÑ
Ýíå áíáÉ ÎíÑ ãä ÃáÝ ÔåÑ ÌÚá Çááå ÕíÇãå ÝÑíÖÉ æ
ÞíÇã áíáå ÊØæÚÇ ãä ÊÞÑÈ Ýíå ÈÎÕáÉ ãä ÇáÎíÑ ßÇä
ßãä ÃÏì ÝÑíÖÉ ÝíãÇ ÓæÇå æãä ÃÏì Ýíå ÝÑíÖÉ
ßÇä ßãä ÃÏì ÓÈÚíä ÝÑíÖÉ ÝíãÇ ÓæÇå æåæ ÔåÑ
ÇáÕÈÑ æÇáÕÈÑ ËæÇÈå ÇáÌäÉ æÔåÑ ÇáãæÇÓÇÉ æÔåÑ íÒÏÇÏ
Ýíå ÑÒÞ ÇáãÄãä ãä ÝØÑ Ýíå ÕÇÆãÇ ßÇä ãÛÝÑÉ áÐäæÈå
æÚÊÞ ÑÞÈÊå ãä ÇáäÇÑ æßÇä áå ãËá ÃÌÑå Çä íäÊÞÕ
ãä ÃÌÑå ÔíÁ ÞÇáæÇ áíÓ ßáäÇ äÌÏ ãÇ íÝØÑ ÇáÕÇÆã
ÝÞÇá íÚØí Çááå åÐÇ ÇáËæÇÈ ãä ÝØÑ ÕÇÆãÇ Úáì ÊãÑÉ
Ãæ ÔÑÈÉ ãÇÁ Ãæ ãÐÞÉ áÈä æåæ ÔåÑ Ãæáå ÑÍãÉ æÇæÓØå
ãÛÝÑÉ æÂÎÑå ÚÊÞ ãä ÇáäÇÑ ãä ÎÝÝ Úä ããáæßå ÛÝÑ
Çááå áå æÇÚÊÞå ãä ÇáäÇÑ æÇÓÊßËÑæÇ
"Oh people! A great month has come over you; a blessed month; a month in which is a night better than a thousand months; month in which Allah has made it compulsory upon you to fast by day, and voluntary to pray by night. Whoever draws nearer (to Allah) by performing any of the (optional) good deeds in (this month) shall receive the same reward as performing an obligatory deed at any other time, and whoever discharges an obligatory deed in (this month) shall receive the reward of performing seventy obligations at any other time. It is the month of patience, and the reward of patience is heaven. It is the month of charity, and a month in which a believer's sustenance is increased. Whoever gives food to a fasting person to break his fast shall have his sins forgiven, and he will be saved from the fire of hell, and he shall have the same reward as the fasting person, without his reward being diminished at all." [Narrated by Ibn Khuzaimah]

There are particular actions that have been encouraged within this month like suhur, tarawih salah, performing umrah, qiyam and feeding the fasting people.

There is much reward to be had by the one who partakes in the suhur, the pre-dawn meal, and the one who invites others to break fast with him.

The Prophet (salAllahu alaihi wasallam) said,

ÊÓÍÑæÇ ÝÅä Ýí ÇáÓÍæÑ ÈÑßÉ
"Take suhur as there is a blessing in it."

He (salAllahu alaihi wasallam) also said,

ãä ÝØÑ ÕÇÆãÇ ßÇä áå ãËá Ãäå áÇ íäÞÕ
ãä ÃÌÑ ÇáÕÇÆã ÔíÆÇ
"Whoever will invite a person who is fasting to break the fast with him will get the same reward as the one who was fasting and there will be no reduction in his reward either".

In the nights of this month there is much opportunity for repentance and supplication, both collectively in the tarawih prayers and also individually in the other prayers such as salat al-tahajjud and by remembering Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) by performing dhikr, and by praising and glorifying Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) with the heart and the tongue.

Abu Hurairah said,

"I heard the Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alaihi wasallam) say,

Ëã ãä ÞÇã ÑãÖÇä ÅíãÇäÇ æÇÍÊÓÇÈÇ ÛÝÑ áå ãÇ
ÊÞÏã ãä ÐäÈå
'the one who does qiyam (staying up the night in remembrance of Allah) in Ramadhan with faith and sincerity, all his sins will be forgiven.'"

Ramadhan is the month in which the umrah is equivalent to a single Hajj (in reward). The Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alaihi wasallam) said to a woman from the Ansar,

ÅÐÇ ßÇä ÑãÖÇä ÝÇÚÊãÑí Ýíå ÝÅä ÚãÑÉ ÊÚÏá ÍÌÉ
"If it is Ramadhan, make umrah for indeed it is equivalent to Hajj" [Nisaa'i]

Praying with full devotion upon the night of al-qadr is of great reward, for it is a night that is better than a thousand months.

Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) said,

ÅöäøóÇ ÃóäÒóáúäóÇåõ Ýöí áóíúáóÉö ÇáúÞóÏúÑö æóãóÇ ÃóÏúÑóÇßó ãóÇ áóíúáóÉõ ÇáúÞóÏúÑö áóíúáóÉõ ÇáúÞóÏúÑö ÎóíúÑñ ãøöäú ÃóáúÝö ÔóåúÑò
"Verily! We have sent it down in the night of Al-qadr. And what will make you know what the night of Al-qadr is. The night of Al-qadr is better than a thousand months" [TMQ: Al-Qadr: 1-3]

Maintaining Consistency

Remaining consistent post Ramadhan is the true test. As observing the Islamic rules is much easier when the environment is Islamic, when most people in your family and many of your friends are doing similar. However post Ramadhan, when things go back to normal, the atmosphere is likely to change. If one has truly based their belief on conviction and understood the significance and meaning of Ramadhan, he or she will remain steadfast and committed to Islam.

If we feel that life will go back to normal after Ramdhan and that the effect will wear off then we need to ponder deeply as to the reasons why this may happen. By doing so we will realise that we may have fundamental flaws in our thinking such as not being clear upon the proof of the definitiveness of Islam itself, our decision making process may revolve around personal selfish interests instead of the shari'ah and the lack of linking Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’aala) and the afterlife to our everyday actions. If this is the case we need to spend time in resolving these weaknesses by contemplation, thought and asking help from those more knowledgeable than ourselves. This soul searching process is a must for a Muslim who should be a consistent Islamic personality as tomorrow may never come and who knows if we will live to next Ramadhan. So let us work against the tide, remain strong, embody Islam and be a light to guide others to the truth.

Abdul-Hamid Jassat

Source: Khilafah Magazine Ramadhan 1424 Edition