An unceasing gift. (11:108)

May all who completed a Khatm of our Glorious Qur’an, whether individually, or as a family, or within a community, during this blessed Ramadhan be favoured with Allah Ta’ala’s uninterrupted giving.

Millions of the faithful attended the Khatm in the Holy precincts of Ka’aba, and around the Sanctuary of the Seal of Prophets and Messengers SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.

The image below is scanned from Okaz one of the Arabic daily papers. Any explanatory words would be superfluous!

 

Insha’Allah an image is published from Madinah, where I have been told the Saf extended out to the first ring road!

The experience indelibly imprinted on the heart and soul. The numbers in attendance reaching the extraordinary, adding to the emotional impact. Unlike previous nights of Taraweeh all seemed to remain until the final Dua by Shaykh Ali Abdur-Rahman Al-Huzaify, when deep sobbing was heard from the throngs of pilgrims. I was one of the thousands of sisters outside in the western courtyard, which became a sea of black, punctuated by random coloured scarves, but it seemed the majority were locals. And even though we were on the hot marble, and many children in attendance it was amazingly subdued. The black, moonless sky was pierced by the glare from the dazzling minarets, which also seem to act as giant antennas carrying the melodious sound of the Qaris directly to the Arsh of Allah Ta’ala. As well as amplifying the impact of the moving sentiments of the Du’a. May Allah Ta’ala hear and accept all our pleading and begging and repenting. Ameen.

May Allah fill our hearts with Iman, Ameen.

May our love for listening to His words as read by those blessed with the true beauty and skill of Tajweed be ever on the increase. Ameen.

As I become more and more intoxicated by the sublime lull and mastery of Mahraj of various Qaris, I am reminded of a talk given by Maulana Tariq Jamil some years ago in Chicago, and so diligently translated by an ‘Alimah friend, of how there is no comparison between what our ears hear in this mortal existence and what we will blessed with in Jannah, Insha’Allah.

"Allah Ta’ala says, "I will make you listen to the melody of the Hur of Jannah, whose spit would sweeten the seven seas. How sweet would the words coming out of her mouth be? There is a river in Jannah called ‘Harwal’’ where.the Hur of Jannah will be singing on both of its banks. There is such attractiveness and sweetness in their voice that if you listen to it you would be transfixed. Allah Ta’ala will ask: "You want to listen to a voice better than this one?" The inhabitants of Jannah will exclaim: "Oh Allah! What could be better than this?" He will call out, "Oh Dawood! Come ahead and climb the mimbar and sing my hymn.” His voice was so sweet that when he used to recite Zaboor the mountains used to sway with his voice, the animals of the jungle used to gather to listen to him and people used to faint. Dawood alaihis Salaam will sing and the people of Jannah will be stupefied and fazed. They will exclaim, "What can be better than this Oh Allah?" Allah Ta’ala will say, "Oh My beloved! Come ahead and climb the mimbar, you sing Oh Muhammad.

Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam’s voice will echo everywhere and silence will prevail in every corner. Allah Ta’ala will ask, "You want to listen to something even better?” They will ask, "What can be sweeter than this?" He will say, (lam yabqa illa arhamurrahimeena) "Now I am the only one left." I will sing and He will call out, "Oh Ridhwan draw the curtains." Then He will reveal Himself and seventy thousand curtains will be raised. They will see their Lord, as in the hadith (innakum sa tarauna rabbakum kamaa tarauna alqamar lailatal badr laa tudha’amuuna fee ru’yatihee) "You will see your Lord as you see the moon on the full moon night and you shall not be wronged." Allah Ta’ala will say on that day, (marhaban bissadiqeen, marhaban bitta’aieena) "You are welcome Oh My truthful, Oh My obedient bondsmen." And when Allah Ta’ala manifests His glory they will be bewildered and dumbfounded. They will exclaim "Oh Allah we failed to give you your due of Ibadah, we were extremely forgetful and heedless. We were dishonest many times and lazy in prostrating ourselves in front of you. The Angel who was in Sajdah ever since he was created, will set his eyes upon Allah Ta’ala, because Allah will reveal His glory for everyone, (only the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam has seen Allah before) Gibraiel, Mikail, Israfeel and Izraeel and all the Angels of Allah’s throne and the Angels of the seven skies will set their eyes upon their Lord, and the people of Jannah will see Allah Ta’ala too. So great will be His manifestation that even the Angels who had breathed their last in the state of Sajdah will say: “Ya Allah maa qadarnaka haqqa qadrik wa ma abadnaka haqqa ibadatiq" (Oh Allah! We did not pay esteem to you as you had the right to be esteemed and we did not worship you as you deserved to be worshipped) The people of Jannah will ask their Lord to allow them to perform just one Sajdah in respect of their Lord, just once. Allah Ta’ala will reply: "qad wathatu anqum maunatassujud" (I have relieved you from the duty of Sajdah) Now you are my guest and I am your host, and a host never tells his guest to arrange his own food, at least a civilized human wouldn’t be so mean. Allah Ta’ala will say, "You are My guest, and a guest is never troubled." (kulu washrabu haneean bima aslaftum fil ayyamil khaliah)

Eat and drink to your heart’s content as a reward for what you have done in days gone by. (69:24)"

Insha’Allah, may this be how we all meet. Recipients of an unceasing gift. Ameen.

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen. 

 

 

 

 

Juma’ah Mubarak.

‘While the Friday of any week is a source of blessings, mercy, forgiveness and salavation for the Believers, the Last Friday of Ramadan popularly known as ‘Jummat’al-Wida’, is light upon light and felicitation of the Noble Qur’an. It is the symbol of splendour, dignity and greatness for the Believers. It is a supreme expression of awe and majesty. On this day people walk towards the Central Mosque proclaiming the Glory and Praise of Almighty Allah aloud. On the way they are surrounded by the Angels and from the boundary of the Ka’abah pours in joyous torrents of mercy and forgiveness.

Without any shadow of a doubt the Last Friday of Ramadan is the day for the acceptance of du’as. Thus it is absolutely important that on this great day sincere prayers should be offered for the success, well-being and victory of the Muslim Ummah.’

Several sayings of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam encourage recitation of the Qur’an during Ramadhan. "Whoever recites an ayah (verse) from the Qur’an (in this month) will receive a reward equal to the one received by a person who recites the entire Qur’an in other months." I read this amazing Hadith in Arab News. However there was no reference, and Allah Almighty knows best. So Insha’Allah these remaining moments of this Ramadhan are spent with extra recitation, Ameen.

Insha’Allah tomorrow is the Qur’an Khatm in Haramain. It is anticipated that there will be record crowds attending Makkah and Madinah.

This Mubarak City of Light has become even more deeply emotional as the moon fades, preparing for a new rebirth, and the end of the most blessed month. The first glance towards the Green Dome as one enters the courtyard, joining the thousands literally pouring in from every direction, promotes a spontaneous flood of tears. An extraordinary luminosity hovers as far as the eye can see. An effulgence of peace and tranquility binding the heterogeneous million or more pilgrims into one united Ummah, the best of Ummah’s, the Ummah of our noble Nabi SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. It is as if our Beloved SallAllahu alaihi wasallam’s presence is the most intimate during these days. SubhanAllah, such serenity almost explodes the heart!  

The traffic in and around Haram needs to be seen to be believed. Vehicles are taking advantage of the several huge areas where all the recent demolition has left open dusty ground ideal for car parking. Conditions will peak for the Khatm and then Eid. Walking to Haram this evening one sees the appearance of the hundreds of rice stalls which will line the roads and pathways until Eid. These stalls are fascinating as they resemble bunkers, the brown Hessian bags of rice stacked around, what mainly seems to be young children and the youth selling them. There seems to be a pride in how creative and artistic the bags can be arranged, and the closer the time comes to Eid, with the bags disappearing, the stacks continue to be redesigned. A work in progress, the boys transforming the shape of the stacks as cars stop and load up with their purchases. The smaller bags are 2.5 kilos, ranging up to 30 kilos, with purchase according to the amount one needs to pay for Zakat. I like the way the traditional manner of paying is maintained in the Kingdom. The amount of Zakat-al-Fitr is half of a Saa’ of wheat or one Saa’ of dates, barley or fig, with the option of giving the equivalent in money.

Zakat-al-Fitr is be Waajib, compulsory, the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: ‘’The fast of Ramadan remains suspended between the earth and the sky and it is only Sadaqah al-Fitr that takes it up.’’

Usually after 8 Rakats of Taraweeh there is an exodus of many, then after ten another exodus, leaving gaps in the Saf. It would be impossible to keep filling them. The other observation is the number who remains standing for the full 20 Rakats. So what begins as saf upon saf of ladies standing shoulder to shoulder gradually becomes a totally different dynamic! On my left this evening was a very old Pakistani lady. I felt I was next to a skeleton covered in shiny leather! She was so thin, and yet spent most of the time standing for her prayer. We got "talking" at the end of Taraweeh. She was here with the daughter, who sat for the entire time! The little I could comprehend of our sharing was that they were from a remote village in the north of Pakistan, "DURR"….Bohot DURR, they kept telling me. SubhanAllah, the wily stamina of many of the older ladies from villages around the world put the younger generation to shame. Once they knew I was living in Madinah they asked if we could marry our respective BACHA so they could be here! May Allah Ta’ala bring all pious Mu’minoon to this Glowing Place. This dear old lady was crying as she held my hands and mentioning the name and indicating the direction of Rasulullah SallAllahu alahi wasallam. Such intense love for the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam expressed in a poignant humble way. SubhanAllah over and over and over again!

What stories her gnarled bony hands, and her deeply etched wrinkled face could tell. The millions concentrated around Haramain during these days all have a story, life times melting into one for the One. Details of millions of journeys melting into one for the One. When one steps out to be on the Path of Allah, answering His call to visit the House and the Adobe, Allah Ta’ala instructs every manifestation of His creation to make Istighfar for the traveler to Him and to His Habib SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. How many particles of air have they passed, how many ants in the ground, how many creatures in the oceans have they flown over, birds in the air, leaves on trees, grains of sand, how many how many? The immensity of this Deen is beyond our feeble comprehension. And now sitting on a marble slab, covering the dust of what would have been the outskirts of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam’s City, this small space will bear witness that we met, shared, bonded, and prostrated for a few moments in a time space also beyond our comprehension, as sisters, as tiny specks of this favoured, blessed Ummah. The presence of Angelic Hosts seemed as close as this dear sisters bony hands, their ethereal soft caress embracing our human earthliness. I semed to float homeward as if having worshipped for more than a thousand months! SubhanAllah over and over and over again and again!  

 

Another scene which grabbed my heart was a small boy, maybe 6 or 7 years old leading his old grandmother through the crowds. She was completely hunched over, needing to stop every few steps, grabbing his tiny hand for support and checking the orientation of where they had come from. He did not show any signs of impatience or annoyance, caringly explaining to her what he perceived to be the best direction to take. Trust, submission to the trustee, such a profound insight Allah Ta’ala, the Ultimate and Faithful Trustee, Al-Wakeel, bestowed on the eyes of my heart by turning my attention to this scene.

May Allah Ta’ala bless us all, old and young, rich and poor, tall and short, and all other variations He has created, and bring love between us for His sake. Ameen.

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen. 

 

 

   
 

 

 

 

 

"If you lost your shoose, do not walk on hot floor. Get free slippers from door’s staff."

One of the latest signs to appear on a pillar facing you as you walk out from the ladies section of Masjid Nabawi! The sign is also in Arabic and Urdu.

I always suggest to people coming for Hajj or Umrah to make a "SHOO" bag as the incidence of missing "shoose" is rampant, especially in Makkah, though seems to be becoming a trend here too. Alhumdulillah for an effort to ease the pilgrims’ distress when discovering ones "shoose" have vanished. Also an attempt to halt what seems to be the interconnected presence of eager vendors ready and waiting to sell the rubber "slippers" to the dismayed bare footed pilgrim. Or the other alternative is to scrounge the mountain of "shoose" outside the doorways.

Unfortunately there are so many scams operating in and around Haramain, with the leaders of such practices inventing more and more ingenious ways to get the unsuspecting pilgrim to part with their money. Insha’Allah as part of preparations to visit Haramain sharpen all "alert and awake" skills, on the physical as well as spiritual levels!

During this charitable season of Ramadhan the gangs of beggars are prevalent everywhere. The authorities are constantly trying to address this issue, as well as trying to encourage pilgrims not to give to these people. Many cases have been reported where huge sums of money have been found in the possession of the ring leaders, who seem to have no mercy in using many of the severely crippled and young children to work for them. During these past few days one cannot walk across the courtyard without being approached by mainly women begging. There are depressing social problems and extreme poverty in the Kingdom, and even though various organizations are set up to deal with these issues, there is still so much more to be done. May Allah Ta’ala save us all, and guide us to give to the truly needy. The group who deserve praise and charity are the cleaners of Haramain, the labourers, the street sweepers, drivers. They leave their own impoverished countries on two year contracts, working long hours in extreme conditions for such a paltry sum. Their living conditions are primitive, while they sacrifice all their usual traditional foods, climate and families. Maybe they earn far less than the gangs of beggars, but at least they are making an honest effort. And Allah the Almighty knows best

The courtyard provides an amazing scene of humanity with such a festive air in the evenings. Around the periphery are the mixed family groups, and gatherings of men representing every Muslim country; the Afghans in their huge wrapped turbans, the Turks in their knitted caps, the Africans with their various colourfully embroidered flowing robes and head gear, the different Sub-Continent attire, baggy shalwar and tighter fitting pajama style, so many others, including the Saudis in their thobes and scarves, the red checkered Shammagh or the plain white one, some with the Uqal, or Ugal as they pronounce it, the black coil head piece to hold the scarf in place.

Then upon entering the fenced off women’s section the atmosphere changes to gatherings of family and friends and hundreds of children! The children invent creative and playful games based on the marble tiling, jumping over and around the various coloured shapes in some competitive game with rules and accompanying chants. Some use their "shoose" as substitute balls and kick them around imaginary playing fields, apparently scoring goals. Others use the area as a race track, with the baby pushers, or buggies, or trolleys, or prams, named according to your country of origin, as the "formula one vehicle", excitedly wheeling screaming occupants around the obstacle course of other groups! Then there are the roller skate "shoo" things…quite a hazard when the child is obviously a learner and does not know how to brake. Or when they feel the best time to get a good straight run is between the Saf during Fardh Salat!!! Ummm! A real picnic ambience pervades the sacred precincts.

Now there is the "child-free" fenced off area, the security women standing guard to the entry making sure no children are present. This is a relatively new addition to the outside courtyard, while inside there has long been such a quieter place for women without children.

Salatul Esha and Taraweeh together usually takes two hours for 20 Rakats I realize that many watch this on television, but I am also aware of many who did not have TV so am mentioning some of the details here. Unlike many places where after every four Rakats there is a slight pause for individual Du’a, the system here is that the first ten Rakats are read by one Imam with no break at all. In fact barely has Salam been said than the next Salat begins. There is a slight pause while they change Imams, however, if there is a Janazah, which is more likely than not, then this break is occupied by praying this.  For the first twenty days, Witr was prayed immediately after, following the Hanbali method, with a lengthy Du’a in the last single Rakat. Now with the last ten days, after approximately a two and a half hour break Qiyamul Layl begins, where twelve Rakats are read. Each Ruku and Sajda is considerably prolonged. Witr and Du’a completes this session, which also takes about two hours. There are a considerable number of ladies performing I’tikaf, but it certainly is not crowded. I am told that the men’s section is reasonable full. In Makkah the entire Haram becomes "carpeted" with pillar to pillar people! It is very difficult moving around, especially from the Tawaf area to Sa’i. Umrah can take up to four and even five hours to complete during this peak period. As all Gulf Countries are now on holiday, thousands take advantage of coming, as they do not need a visa, plus the thousands from within the Kingdom arriving as well, adding to the millions from overseas.

I found it fascinating watching the ladies establishing their I’tikaf "territories". Many are in groups who tend to section off an area using the moveable metal shoe/seat box things as barriers to their "plot"! They then lay prayer mats on the Haram carpets within their temporary "homes". It reminded me of how as children we would set up a dolls house, attending to little details as to where to place this and that! Others use the pillars as a back rest and are immersed in reading Qur’an, or Dhikr. Others are wrapped in their Abaya or shawls and take time to catch some sleep, while others chat in small circles drinking green Arabic coffee and eating dates, which apart from yogurt and bread are the only foodstuffs officially meant to be allowed inside.

The shops around Haram, as well as the main malls and shopping strips lining the streets to the outer hotels are open all night. The crowd filling these areas is incredible! I find it amazing that after about half an hour after Taraweeh finishing the recording of that session is available and being played and sold in the book shops.

Boy scouts are seen in great numbers offering their services with pushing needy ones in wheelchairs, assisting with traffic control and attending to lost pilgrims, which is not such a big problem in Madinah as it is in Makkah. A report the other day said that thousands are lost each day in Makkah! 

May Allah Ta’ala continue to bestow the entire Ummah with all His special promises during these last few moments of this most Mubarak month of purifying ans fasting. Ameen.

………………………………………………………………………………………

Alhumdulillah, the problem I have had with posting has been discovered as being due to "corrupt cookies"!! What fun! Such are the intricacies of computers. Insha’Allah I will attend to the few missing features after Eid.

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen. 

 

 

Forlorn faces, framed by drab curtains, peer from row upon row of pilgrim buses, painting a surreal image of sadness and despair. Thick diesel fumes spew from the revved engines, puffing dark plumes marring the pristine sunset. Men nimbly secure piles of luggage on roof racks, a coiffure of sorts!

This is the common scene in this Illuminated City, emblazoned by the presence of our beloved Leader of Apostles, Master of Truth and Trustworthiness, SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, during the peak seasons of Ramadhan and Hajj. But what dismays me this time is that it is only minutes to Adhan, minutes to Iftar, minutes for hundreds crammed into buses to leave the tranquility of the Prophet’s company as they are about to break their fast. Tears are visible and sobbing audible. Baffling to think companies could not be more accommodating with their schedules.

 

 

This photo is scanned from one of the local Arabic dailies. The stream of traffic, bumper to bumper is typical of every pre-Iftar evening. Haram is to the right, our home hidden in a maze of alley ways to the left. Negotiating this road is between me and Habibul Allah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. At least when the traffic is so congested, it is relatively easier to weave in and out, other times it is a race way, with pedestrians having no hope. The alternative way to walk to Haram and avoid this road takes me past the date market and on to the western side of Masjid Nabawi. To reach Haram by car is another adventure in itself!

The road depicted in this photo is one of the main ones off the first ring road, leading to Masjid Quba and the freeway to Makkah. But the main reason for the congestion are the numerous and varied food outlets lining either side of the road, so popular at this time of the day in Ramadhan! Almost as though the last morsel of food on the planet was there and that no body had eaten for a year!

The specialty cuisine of so many nationalities is available; sambosa, samosa, pakora, ful and tamees bread, spiced pulses, roti chanai, as well as the traditional Saudi fare, and of course the array of rich syrupy sweets, baklava, kunafa, basboosa, qadayif. Picture all of this outside on the footpath with the traffic fumes adding that extra flavour!  

Many people prepare various traditional foods and drinks in their homes and then set up a stall by the side of the road. Some advertise their presence by setting up colourful umbrellas, boxes draped with patterned plastic, and some of the village ladies decorating their stalls with their mats woven from the dried date palm leaves. Certain areas are known for their distinct offerings with customers driving considerable distances to add to the spread on their sufra. We recently had visitors from Makkah who brought their "unique" bread with them!

One sought after bread is tanoor, a stone ground variety baked in a stone wood fired oven, looking very much like house bricks! The other popular Saudi treat is Subia. A home made drink, based on barley, sultanas, cardamom, cinnamon and sugar. Huge ice filled plastic barrels are strategically positioned along the streets, with a bright red or a milky white variety available.  This drink is usually purchased in 2 litre plastic bags for SR10. What has traditionally been the domain of the locals making Subia has gradually been taken over by many ex-pats taking advantage of the demand for this drink for Iftar.   

And there are many who do not feel their Iftar is complete unless it is with fresh camel milk.

One Saudi friend and his family have been providing an Iftar sufra at Masjid Quba for several generations, and every Ramadhan inviting all they know to join them seeking the blessings of feeding a fasting person. We broke our fast there the other day, where the locals were distributing Dukka. This is a Madani version of Zarta; a dried thyme and roasted sesame powder eaten with a crusty circular bread and yogurt, followed by the green Saudi coffee.

Driving around Madinah after Asr reveals so much activity outside all mosques, men delivering and arranging food, women in groups patiently waiting for the Adhan to pierce the sky. We happened to be looking at the progress new Masjid of Khandaq when huge platters of foil covered trays were being placed on the sufra on the ground outside Masjid Abu Bakr AsSiddiq, the position of Abu Bakr RadhiAllahu anhu had his tent during the digging of the trench and the pursuing battle. SubhanAllah, sitting and making ones Du’a at such a place and such a time when Du’a is accepted.  

Some families organize "Ramadhan Tents", where not only the small fare prior to Salatul Maghrib is offered, but huge lavish meals as well. In other cities throughout the Kingdom many non-Muslims are invited to share in the breaking of fast. Every year reports appear where several embrace Islam after experiencing and sharing this Mubarak time. May Allah Ta’ala spread His Hidayah throughout the world, Ameen.

 

My curious mind wonders how many thousands of kilometers of plastic must be used every day in Haramain for Iftar, and how many tons of dates are consumed, leaving how many tons of date stones!

 

Qiyamul Layl begins in Masjid Nabawi this evening, as well as it being open all the time, the only ten days in the year that it is, for those blessed with the desire and opportunity to perform I’tikaf.

May Allah keep us all steadfast during these last ten days of this blessed month and shower us all with peace and blessings.

 

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen. 

 

 

 

 

Three little "gems" to shine the heart.

Ibn ‘Abbas RadhiAllahu anhu narrated that Umar bin Khattab RadhiAllahu anhu was sitting with some of the older Makkah Muhajiroon, among other Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum, and a discussion about "Laylatul Qadr" took place. Umar RadhiAllahu anhu listened as some of the elders debated and gave their opinions and interpretations of this miraculous night, and as to which of the nights of fasting month of Ramadhan it denotes. Umar RadhiAllahu anhu turned to Ibn ‘Abbas RadhiAllahu anhu and said: "What happened to you O Ibn ‘Abbas? Why are you silent? Say something. Do not let your youth and respect for the elders prevent you from sharing your understanding."

Ibn ‘Abbas then said: "O Prince of the Believers, surely Allah is One and Unique, and He likes odd numbers. In this respect, He, Blessed be His Name, also chose a series of septets, and He made the week revolve around seven days; He created the human being in seven stages; He made our livelihood depend on seven types of elements; He created seven firmaments above us; and beneath us, He created two earths, each one consisting of seven layers; He revealed the Opening Chapter of the Qur’an, Al-Fatihah, comprising seven couplets; He forbade seven types of sanguineous marriages involving family members; He allotted a universal division of inheritance to seven categories of relatives; and furthermore, in paying obeisance during our prayers, we prostrate on seven parts of our bodies; Allah’s Messenger, SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, circumambulated the Holy Ka’aba seven times; he further encompassed the distance between the Hills of Safa and Marwa seven times, and he pelted Shaytan at Jamarat seven times while proclaiming the glory of Allah Ta’ala as per His admonition in the Qur’an. Therefore, I think that "Laylatul Qadr" must be one of the last seven nights of the month of Ramadhan. And Allah Ta’ala knows best.

Umar RadhiAllahu anhu then turned to the crowd of the elders and said:  "O ye people! Is there amongst you anyone who can rehearse this exegesis as told by Ibn ‘Abbas?"

From: The Beauty of the Righteous and the Ranks of the Elite, A Collection of over 1000 Rare Accounts of the Blessed Companions RadhiAllahu anhum, of Allah’s Messenger SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, Based on the Classic 10^th Century Work of Imam Abu Na’im al-Asfahani (948-1038 AD)

 

 

Narrated by Abu Hurairah: Allah’s Messenger SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said, "If anyone out of a desire to please Allah fasts for a day, Allah will remove him from Jahannam as far as a crow flies from the time it is a young bird till it dies of old age."

Ahmad transmitted it, and Bayhaqi transmitted it in Shu’ab al-Iman from Salamah ibn Qays.

 

Describing an overnight visit with Rabi’a Al-’Adawiya, Sufyan Thawri has written: "I saw her enter her Mehrab and occupy herself in prayers until daybreak. In the opposite corner of the house I also performed prayer until dawn. With the sunrise, she suggested we dedicate the rest of the day to fasting to express our gratitude for the grace through which we maintained the night vigil."

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen. 

 

So jubilant Umayr RadhiAllahu anhu, shared the tedious journey across the inhospitable desert; scorching sands, razor-edged rubble carpeting the foothills of the sharp unforgiving granite sentinels marking the area between Madinah and Badr. One camel was assigned for every three Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum to ride, so we can imagine Umayr RadhiAllahu anhu walking at least two thirds of the way. The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam was adamant that he too face the same conditions as his companions and refused to ride when it was his turn, SubhanAllah! And they were all experiencing their first fast, the very first Ramadhan having recently been revealed.

Exuberant Umayr RadhiAllahu anhu valiantly fought against the enemy. Was he witness to the miraculous events around him? Was he one of the ones to actually see Jibreel Alaihis Salaam with his yellow turban flying, along with the thousand Angels dressed in white turbans, astride their mounts as they attacked and repelled the Quraish? The presence of the Angels was felt by all, as strength by the faithful and as a terror by the enemy, but the presence was actually only seen and the neighing of the stallions heard by a select few, and in varying degrees.

Was Umayr RadhiAllahu anhu aware of the incident when was of the believers was pursuing one of the idolaters when suddenly his head was decapitated before the Sahabah was near him, struck by an unseen force.

Did Umayr RadhiAllahu anhu see Ukkashah bin Maihsin RadhiAllahu anhu break his sword, to be given a piece of wood by the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, which as he began to swing it, it turned right there in his hand, into a long and powerful sword. Ukkashah RadhiAllahu anhu continued to fight with sword until he was martyred during the Caliphate of Abu Bakr RadhiAllahu anhu, in the Apostate Wars.

 

Or maybe Umayr RadhiAllahu anhu saw the arrow strike out the eye of Rifa’ah bin Raafai RadhiAllahu anhu, with the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam immediately applying his spittle and making Du’a, with the eye being restored and having better sight than the other eye from that day on.

Did Umayr RadhiAllahu anhu witness the slaying of the ugliest enemy of the Muslims, rejoicing in his downfall?

We may never know what this exuberant lad experienced. We can be inspired by the sacrifice of these brave warriors who set out ready to sacrifice their all for the sake of their new found Deen.

May we take a little time remembering their efforts, on this 17^th day of Ramadhan, reflecting upon the trust they had, the obedience to follow commands and their love of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. May we learn from our rich history. Ameen.

The questions and the answers from the Ramadhan 07 "quiz". (There are slight variations in narrations with some of these answers, I have stated what seems to be the most common consensus of opinion, and Allah Almighty knows best.)

1. What was the reason behind the battle?

A caravan of Quraish was returning from Syria, being led by Abu Sufyan. It carried goods worth 50,000 gold dinars with only 40 men as guards. From a strategic point of view, a raid or military strike might cause a heavy economic blow to the Quraishites who were prone to harm the Muslims in every possible way. Also it was an opportunity for the Muslims to recoup some of what they left when they migrated from Makkah, leaving all possessions and property behind.

2. What did the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam do initially?

He SallAllahu alaihi wasallam sent Talhah bin Ibaidullah and Saeed bin Zaid RadhiAllahu anhuma to collect information about the enemy. The he exhorted the Muslims to raid the caravan for compensation of all they left in Makkah.

3. How many Muslims accompanied the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam?

313 Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum

4. How many were Muhajiroon and how many Ansar?

86 Muhajirron and 231 Ansari

5. What animals were they equipped with? 70 camels and two horses, one with Zubair bin Awwam and one with Miqdad bin Aswad, RadhiAllahu anhuma

6. Who was appointed Governor of Madinah in the absence of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam?

First Ibn Umm Maktum, then Abu Lababah bin Abdul Mundhir, RadhiAlahu anhuma

7. Who was the flag bearer for the Muslim army?

Mus’ab bin Umair Quraishi RadhiAllahu anhu was carrying the general flag.

8. What colour was the flag?

It was white.

9. How was the Muslim army divided?

There were two battalions: The Muhajiroon under Ali RadhiAllahu anhu and the Ansar under S’ad bin Muath RadhiAllahu anhu. Zabair bin Awwam RadhiAllahu anhu was given the command of the right flank and Miqdad bin Amr RadhiAllahu anhu the left flank, while the command of the rear ws given to Qais bin Abi Sa’sa’ah RadhiAllahu anhu, with the Prophet naturally being the Commander-in-Chief.

10. Where did the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam head towards?

He marched out along the road leading to Makkah, then turned towards Badr. When he reached Safra he dispatched two men to scout for the camels of Quraish.

11. What did Abu Sufyan do?

As soon as his men informed him that the Muslims were lying in ambush for his caravan he sent a message to Makkah for help.

12. How did the Quraish react?

They were enraged and swiftly mustered an army of all available people, including some Muslims who had been in Makkah, and they were forced to join the army, includingSayyidna Abbas RadhiAllahu anhu the uncle of the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam and the two sons of Abu Talib, RadhiAllahu anhuma.

13. What was the message they received on their way to Badr?

They received a message from Abu Sufyan advising them to go back as his caravan had escaped the Muslims.

14. What was the manoeuvre adopted by Abu Sufyan?

He led his caravan off the main route and turned it towards the Red Sea to slip past the Muslims.

15. What did the Makkans think on hearing of the situation?

They thought of returning to Makkah, but Abu Jahl forced them to proceed to Badr and stay there for three days.

16. Who was leading the Makkans?

Abu Jahl

17. How many Makkans were there? Various narrations record 1000-1300 including 200 horses. 600 coats of mail, female war-song chanters and their drums. On every stage of their journey ten camels were slaughtered to feed them.

18. Why did the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam decide to encounter the enemy?

When the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam learnt that the pagan army was camping itself at Badr, he along with the other Muslims wanted to avoid any possibility of the enemy marching to Madinah , so he decided after consulting with the Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum to march to Badr.

19. How did the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam know all the details about the enemy?

Through Ali bin Abi Talib, Zubair bin Awwam and Sa’d bin Abi Waqqas, RadhiAllahu anhum who spied on the enemy.

20. How did the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam spend the night before the battle?

He spent it in prayer asking for Allah Ta’ala’s help in favour of the Muslims. The Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum constructed a small twig –roofed hut for our Beloved Prophet, called ‘Arish, to act as his command post, or the military headquarters. The present day Masjid commemorating this heroic battle stands at this place.

When you were calling your Lord for help, so He responded to you (saying): "I am going to support you with one thousand of the Angels, one following the other." (8:9)

And the Du’a the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam made was:

"O Allah, let the promise You have made to me come true now. O Allah, if this modest group of Muslims were to perish, then, on Your earth, there shall remain no one to worship You."

The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam kept busy with this Du’a earnestly and plaintively so muc so that the sheet wrap around his shoulders slid down. Sayyidna Abu Bakr Radhiallahu anhu stepped forward and put the sheet back on his blessed body and said to him: "Ya Rasulullah, please worry no more. Allah will surely respond to your prayer and fulfill His promise." The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam later came to Abu Bakr RadhiAllahu anhu smiling, and said: O Abu Bakr, here comes good news for you, this is Jibreel Alaihis Salaam satnding near the cliff." The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam was reciting the following verse:

Soon the gathered group of the enemy will be defeated and they will turn (their) backs. (54:45)

According to some narrations the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam pointed to places saying this is the spot where Abu Jahl will be killed, and this is for so and so and this for so and so, and events did turn out to be precisely as he indicated.

21. Who was the first to trigger the war?

An idolater named Aswad bin Abdul Asad Makhzumi.

22. What happened to him?

He pledged that he would drink water from the spring of the Muslims, otherwise he would destroy it or die for it. Hamza RadhiAllahu anhu struck his leg with his sword and killed him inside the spring.

23. What did the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam do when the general fighting started?

The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam invoked Allah Ta’ala for his support.

24. What was the result?

Allah Ta’ala sent Angels for the Muslim’s help. The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam at the instance of Jibreel Alaihis Salaam took handfuls of dust and threw this at the enemy, saying: "May your faces be deformed."

25. What verse of the Qur’an Majeed refers to this?

So you did not kill them, but Allah killed them. And you did not throw when you threw but Allah did throw, so that He may bless the believers with a good favour. Surely Allah is All-Hearing, All-knowing. Apart from that, Allah is the One who frustrates the device of the disbelievers. (8:17,18)

26. Who killed the leader of the enemy?

Muath bin Amr and Muawwadh bin Afra RadhiAllahu anhuma

27. Who received his sword?

Abdullah bin Masu’d RadhiAllahu anhu, who cut his head off and took it to the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.

28. How many Muslims were martyred?

14, 6 Muhajirron and 8 Ansar.

29. How many of the enemy were killed and how many taken captive?

70 killed and 70 taken captive, though some narrations say 50 taken captive, and Allah Almighty knows best.

30. How did the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam distribute the booty?

He distributed the booty equally among the fighters after putting aside one fifth of it, according to the Divine revelation that came down to him. (8:1-4)

31. What did the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam decide about the captives?

He decided to take ransom for their release in order to support the Muslims financially.

32. What was another option given to the captives?

The captives could agree to participate in and educational program: every prisoner to teach ten children reading and writing, also some were released on humanitarian grounds.

33. When did the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam return to Madinah?

After spending three days in Badr after the victory.

34. What was the importance of Ghazwah Badr?

It was the first encounter between the Muslims and the disbelievers. It proved they possessed good military skills; they extended the area of spreading Islam, it taught that victory comes only from Allah Ta’ala, it instilled loyalty for the sake of Allah Ta’ala, and not for family or tribal affiliations, patriotism or nationalism. The war cry for the Muslims on this day was "One, One", referring to the Oneness of Allah Ta’ala. 

35. Why did Allah Ta’ala describe the Day of Badr as Yaumal Furqan (The Day of Distinction)?

Because it made the distinction between the people of truth and belief and the people of disbelief, a distinction between truth and falsehood.

36. What was the sad news the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam came home to?

The death of his beloved daughter, Ruqayya RadhiAllahu anha. May Allah Ta’ala bless her soul.

37. What was the fate of Umayr RadhiAllahu anhu?

Umayr RadhiAllahu, the enthusiastic lad gained the martyrdom he so sincerely wished for. May Allah Ta’ala bless his soul and all who died in this historic battle for the entire Ummah of Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.

http://www.islamibayanaat.com/EnglishMarefulQuran.htm

Volume 4 page 145, Surah Al-Anfal, (the detailed descriptionbegins on page 157)a comprehensive tafseer of Ghazwah Badr by Maulana Mufti Muhammad Shafi

http://www.iqra.net/articles/muslims/badr/index.php http://www.iqra.net/articles/muslims/badr.php

the complete list of the Badriyyah Sahabah RadhiAllahu, including the names of the Martyrs, May Allah bless them all.

http://www.on.to/badr

This work is an extract of the Second Volume of English Translation of Sirat-un-Nabi originally written in Urdu by the late ‘Allama Shibli Nu’mani, a well-known Muslim historian who requires no commendation. His famous work Sirat-un-Nabi also hardly stands in need of any introduction. The book Sirut-un-Nabi is translated by M. Tiyyib Baksh Budayuni who has the full command of both the languages, Urdu as well as English.

http://www.manaqib.org/ an audio download of the names of the participants in the Battle of Badr, plus an accompanying booklet espousing the virtues of Noble Companions of Badr

 

 

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen. 

 

 

Such a blessed month! The first of which brings Allah Ta’ala’s Mercy, the middle which brings His Forgiveness and the last of which brings emancipation from the fire of Janannam, so said our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam.

Already half of this time for forgiveness has departed, never to return, with half of this Mubarak Month also departed, never to return. A reflective conversation where the heart communicates with the mind….

how much time have you wasted, could this be your last day, your last Ramadhan, what more could you be doing with this precious time given to you, how best can you be contributing to the welfare of others, the betterment of the Ummah, how could you increase your acts of kindness in the remaining days of this month, how many tears have been spilt in asking for forgiveness, in repenting, how much have you read from our Qur’an Kareem, what time have you spent in conveying Salat and Salam on the Best of Creation SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, how many from the destitute have you fed for Iftar, how much Du’a have you been engaged in, what has your seeking been for, how much time have you spent in unnecessary conversation, idle thoughts, useless actions, or how much time have you spent in productive pursuits, are you depriving the body to uplift the soul, are you merely observing Ramadhan, or LISTENING to it, what levels of Sabr have you experienced, how much are you renewing your commitment and re-establishing your relationship with our Creator, how much are you strengthening your Iman, how much purifying me, your heart, your soul, are you appreciating this month, are you loving this month, have you made plans for seeking Laylatul Qadr, and are you thinking ahead to considering fasting the gift of the six days in Shawwal? And on and on the questions could go. Turn to your own heart asking what it wants you to do with this time.

Allah Ta’ala loves to hear us asking for His forgiveness, He has chained the Shayateen, making our way to Him easier at the moment. And every night throughout the entire year Allah Ta’ala descends during the last third of the night calling out: "Is there anyone who will repent whose repentance I will accept. Is there anyone to seek forgiveness that I might forgive him."

This photo below shows the place where the Beloved of the Lord of the Worlds, SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, offered his Tahajjud prayers. (towards the left where the tall brown bookcase extends out slightly from the pillar and the other brass bookcases.) By allowing the vision to go beyond the physical features we see, we can focus the eyes of the heart to the moving significance of this place, where our Noble Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, the Qur’an Personified, the most perfected of humans, asked for forgiveness! SubhanAllah! 

Allah Ta’ala has described His pious slaves:

And in the dawn they pray for forgiveness. (51:18) 

Sayyidina Abu Hurairah RadhiAllahu anhu, reported that the Messenger of Allah SallAllahu alaihi wasallam said: "By Him Who holds my life, if you stop committing sin then Allah Ta’ala will take all of you away and will create such people who will commit sin and will seek forgiveness, and Allah Ta’ala will forgive them."

Adam Alaihis Salaam said:

Our Lord, we have wronged ourselves and if You were not to forgive us and have mercy on us, we shall certainly become among the losers. (7:3)

Allah Ta’ala in His Words has taught us what to say:

O my Lord, forgive and have mercy, and You are the best of those who have mercy. (23:118)

And pardon us, and grant us forgiveness, and have mercy on us. You are our Lord. (2:286)

Our Lord forgive our sins and expiate our evil deeds, and cause us to die with the righteous. (3:193)

You are our protector. So forgive us and have mercy on us, and You are the best of those who forgive. (7:155)

The Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam has also taught such excellent words in which to seek forgiveness:

"O Allah Ta’ala forgive us and have mercy on us. Do overlook what You know of our sins because You surely know what we do not know. Indeed, You are the Mighty, the Generous."

The Sayyid-ul-Istighfar: "O Allah, You are my Lord. There is no god except You. You have created me. And I am Your slave and I stand by Your covenant and Your promise to the best of my ability. I seek refuge in You from the evil of that which I have done. I acknowledge Your blessings on me and I acknowledge my sin. The pardon me, for none but You forgive sins."

O my Lord, shower blessings, peace and favours on Sayyidina Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, and on the family of Sayyidina Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, and forgive my sins, the Best of those who forgive.

O Allah, I seek Your forgiveness for every sin that draws me towards Your wrath or Your displeasure, or inclines me to what You have forbidden me, or distances me from what You have called me to.

O my Lord, shower blessings, peace and favours on Sayyidina Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, and on the family of Sayyidina Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, and forgive my sins, the Best of those who forgive.

O Allah, I seek Your forgiveness for every sin which my enemies resolved to publish but You warded off their ploys and did not help them shame me as if I were Your friend. O Lord! How long will I sin and You grant me respite? How long will I disobey You and You will not take me to task? In spite of my evil deeds, I kept asking You for things and You have given me my requests. Have I shown gratitude for even a single blessing from Your uncountable blessings?

O my Lord, shower blessings, peace and favours on Sayyidina Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, and on the family of Sayyidina Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, and forgive my sins, the Best of those who forgive.

O Allah, I seek Your forgiveness for every sin that caused me to neglect that to which You had guided me and commanded me to do, or not to do.

O Allah, I seek Your forgiveness for every sin which I have forgotten after doing it. You preserved it while I overlooked it and You recorded it. I did it openly while You concealed it If I had repented before You, surely You would have forgiven it. So I repent to you sincerely.

O my Lord, shower blessings, peace and favours on Sayyidina Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, and on the family of Sayyidina Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, and forgive my sins, the Best of those who forgive

O Allah, I seek Your forgiveness for every sin to which I walked with my feet, or stretched my hands, or glanced with my eyes, or put my ears to it or spoke it with my tongues, or wasted away on it with wealth You have bestowed on me and I asked You for provision and You did grant me mush more in provision.

O my Lord, shower blessings, peace and favours on Sayyidina Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, and on the family of Sayyidina Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, and forgive my sins, the Best of those who forgive.

I seek the forgiveness of Allah Ta’ala, the Mighty, besides Whom there is no god. He is the Ever-Living, the Eternal, And I repent to Him, a forgiveness that multiplies with every blink of the eye and breathing of the heart, hundreds of thousands of times and much more that continues perpetually as Allah Ta’ala is Eternal, and remains as Allah Ta’ala will remain forever, for Whom there is no destruction, no end and no change in sovereignty ever and ever, ages upon ages, always! O Allah Ta’ala let this supplication be worthy of acceptance, a request that befits a grant from You. Indeed You are over all things capable. 

O Allah, bless Sayyidina Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, and the family of Sayyidina Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wasallam, and his Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum, and give him peace, a complete peace. Let it be a benediction that is eternal like Your Eternity, everlasting like You Ever-Remaining. Let there be no end to it except by Your knowledge. Let it be a benediction that pleases you and please him, and please us with its blessings on us, O Lord of the Worlds.

Rabi’ah Al-Adawiya declared: "O children of Adam! Your eyes provide no passage to perceive the Truth, nor is there any access to Him by speech of the tongue. The faculty of hearing is but a highway to distress for the speaker, while you hands and feet steer you only into bewilderment. The true work is in the heart. Try to acquire an awakened heart, for when the heart is awakened, it will have no need of a friend."
Because an awakened heart is one which is lost in Allah Ta’ala. She also said: "Asking forgiveness out loud is the work of hypocrites. Though we repent, we still need another repentance to repent of repenting."

From a precious little Mu’minah, Jazakillahu khairan katheeran abada, may we try to be steadfast in making this Du’a.

 

All good is from Allah Ta’ala whereas mistakes are from this humble speck. May Allah Ta’ala Bless all readers, bringing you all closer to Him and His Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen.