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Month: September 2014

The Desirability of Observing Saum (Fasting) on Monday and Thursday

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Chapter 229
The Desirability of Observing Saum (Fasting) on Monday and Thursday

1255. Abu Qatadah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) was asked about fasting on Mondays. He said, “That is the day on which I was born and the day on which I received Revelation.”
[Muslim].

1256. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Deeds of people are presented (to Allah) on Mondays and Thursdays. So I like that my actions be presented while I am fasting.”
[At-Tirmidhi].

1257. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her)u reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) used to observe fast on Mondays and Thursdays.
[At-Tirmidhi].

The Desirability of Fasting six Days in the Month of Shawwal

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The Desirability of Fasting six Days in the Month of Shawwal

1254. Abu Ayyub (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “He who observes As-Saum (the fasts) in the month of Ramadan, and also observes As-Saum for six days in the month of Shawwal, it is as if he has observed As-Saum for the whole year.”
[Muslim].

The Excellence of Observing Saum on the Day of ‘Arafah, ‘Ashura’ andTasu’a (i.e., 9th of Muharram)

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The Excellence of Observing Saum on the Day of ‘Arafah, ‘Ashura’ and Tasu’a
(i.e., 9th of Muharram)

1250. Abu Qatadah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) was asked about the observance of Saum (fasting) on the day of `Arafah. He said, “It is an expiation for the sins of the preceding year and the current year.”
[Muslim].

1251. Ibn `Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) observed Saum (fasting) on the day of `Ashura’ and commanded us to fast on this day.
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1252. Abu Qatadah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) was asked about observing As-Saum (the fast) on the tenth day of Muharram, and he replied, “It is an expiation for the sins of the preceding year.”
[Muslim].

1253. Ibn `Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “If I remain alive till the next year, I shall also observe fast on the ninth of Muharram.”
[Muslim].

The Excellence of Observing Saum (Fasting) in the months of Muharram and Sha’ban and the Sacred Months (Rajab, Dhul-Qa’dah, and Dhul-Hijjah)

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The Excellence of Observing Saum (Fasting) in the months of Muharram and Sha’ban
and the Sacred Months

1246. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “The best month for observing Saum (fasting) next after Ramadan is the month of Allah, the Muharram; and the best Salat (prayer) next after the prescribed Salat is Salat at night (Tahajjud prayers).”
[Muslim].

1247. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) did not observe voluntary Saum (fasting) so frequently during any other month as he did during Sha`ban. He observed Saum throughout the month of Sha`ban.

    Another narration is: He (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) observed Saum during the whole month of Sha`ban except a few days.
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1248.  Reported Mujibah Al-Bahiliyah on the authority of her father or uncle that he visited the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) once and then went to see him again after a year. His appearance had totally changed. He asked the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) if he had recognized him. The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) asked, “Who are you?” He replied: “I am Al-Bahili who visited you last year.” The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “You were quite handsome, what has changed your appearance so much?” He replied, “Since my departure from here, I have not eaten anything except at night.” The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) remarked, “You have put yourself to torture. Observe Saum (fasting) during the Month of Patience (i.e., Ramadan) and fast one day from each month.” He submitted, “Permit me to observe more voluntary fasts because I have capacity to do so.” The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Then observe fasts for two days in every month.” He said, “Permit me to observe more.” The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Observe fasts on three days in every month.” He requested that he should be allowed to observe more fasts. The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Fast three days during the sacred months and omit fasting for three days alternately.” He (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) joined his three fingers together and left them apart while repeating this sentence thrice.
[Abu Dawud].

Matters relating to As-Saum (Fasting)

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Matters relating to As-Saum (Fasting)

1242. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “If any one of you forgetfully eats or drinks (while observing fasting) he should complete his Saum (fasting), for Allah has fed him and given him to drink.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1243. Laqit bin Sabirah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I requested the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) to talk to me about ablution. He said, “Perform the Wudu’ well (by washing those parts of the body, such as the face, hands and feet beyond what is required, like washing the hands up to the upper-arm instead of the elbow). Cleanse the base of your fingers and sniff water deep into the nose except when you are observing fast.”
[Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi].

1244. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) would wake up at Fajr time in a state of Janabah; so he would take bath before dawn and observe fasting.
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1245. `Aishah, and Umm Salamah (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) would wake during Ramadan (fasting) in a state of major impurity without a wet dream, but on account of sexual intercourse and he would take a bath before dawn.
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Safeguarding As-Saum (The Fast)

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Safeguarding As-Saum (The Fast)

1240. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “When any one of you is observing Saum (fasting) on a day, he should neither indulge in obscene language nor should he raise the voice; and if anyone reviles him or tries to quarrel with him he should say: `I am observing fast.”’
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1241. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “If one does not eschew lies and false conduct, Allah has no need that he should abstain from his food and his drink.”
[Al-Bukhari].

The Superiority of Hastening to Break the Fast, and the supplication tosay upon Breaking it

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The Superiority of Hastening to Break the Fast, and the supplication to say upon
Breaking it

1233. Sahl bin Sa`d (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “People will continue to adhere to good as long as they hasten to break the Saum (fasting).”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1234. Abu Atiyyah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:   Masruq  and  I  visited `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) and said: “O Mother of the Believers! There are two Companions of Muhammad (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) and neither of them holds back from doing good acts; but one of them hastens to break Saum (fasting) and hastens to perform the Maghrib prayer, while the other delays breaking Saum and delays performing Salat (prayer).” She asked, “Who is the one who hastens to break Saum and perform the Maghrib prayer?” Masruq said, “It is `Abdullah (meaning `Abdullah bin Mas`ud).” She said, “The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) used to do so.”
[Muslim].

1235. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Allah the Most High says: `From amongst my slaves, the quicker the one is in breaking the Saum (fasting), the dearer is he to me.”’
[At-Tirmidhi].

1236. `Umar bin Al-Khattab (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said: “When the night approaches from this side (i.e., the east) and the day retreats from that side (i.e., west) and the sun sets, then it is time for a person observing Saum (fasting) to break his fast.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1237. Abu Ibrahim `Abdullah bin Abu Aufa (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: We were with the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) on a journey and he was observing Saum (fasting). When the sun set, he (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said to a person, “Dismount and prepare the ground roasted barley drink for us.” Upon this he replied, “O Messenger of Allah, there is daylight still.” The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Get down and prepare barley drink for us.” He said, “But it is still daytime.” The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) again said to him, “Get down and prepare barely drink for us.” So he got down and prepared a barley liquid meal for him. The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) drank that and then said, “When you perceive the night approaching from that side, a person observing Saum (fasting) should break the fast.” And he (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) pointed towards the east with his hand.
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1238. Salman bin `Amir (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I heard the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) saying, “When one of you breaks his Saum (fasting), let him break it on dates; if he does not have any, break his fast with water for it is pure.”
[Abu Dawud].

1239. Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) used to break his Saum (fasting) before performing Maghrib prayer with three fresh date-fruits; if there were no fresh date-fruits, he will eat three dry dates; and if there were no dry date-fruits; he would take three draughts of water.
[At-Tirmidhi].

Merit of Suhur (Predawn meal in Ramadan) and the Excellence of Delayinghaving it till before Dawn

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Merit of Suhur (Predawn meal in Ramadan) and the Excellence of Delaying having
it till before Dawn

1229. Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Eat Suhur (predawn meal). Surely, there is a blessing in Suhur.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1230. Zaid bin Thabit (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: We took Suhur (predawn meal) with the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) and then we stood up for (Fajr) Salat (prayer). It was asked: “How long was the gap between the two?” He replied: “The time required for the recitation of fifty Ayat.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1231. Ibn `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) had two Mu’adhdhin: Bilal and Ibn Umm Maktum (May Allah be pleased with them). The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Bilal proclaims Adhan [call to Salat (prayer)] at fag end of night, so eat and drink till Ibn Umm Maktum pronounces Adhan.” Ibn `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) added: And the gap between their Adhan was not more than the time spent in one’s getting down and the other’s climbing (the minaret).
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1232.  `Amr bin Al-`As (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “The difference between our observance of Saum (fasting) and that of the people of the Scriptures is Suhur (predawn meal in Ramadan).”
[Muslim].

Supplication at the Sight of the Crescent (At the outset of Every LunarMonth)

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Chapter 220
Supplication at the Sight of the Crescent (At the outset of Every Lunar Month)

1228.  Talhah bin  Ubaidullah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: At the sight of the new moon (of the lunar month), the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) used to supplicate: “Allahumma ahillahu `alaina bil-amni wal-iman, was-salamati wal-Islam, Rabbi wa Rabbuk-Allah, Hilalu rushdin wa khairin (O Allah, let this moon appear on us with security and Iman; with safety and Islam. (O moon!) Your Rubb and mine is Allah. May this moon be bringing guidance and good).”
[At-Tirmidhi].

The Prohibition of Observing Saum (Fasting) after the Middle of Sha’ban

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The Prohibition of Observing Saum (Fasting) after the Middle of Sha’ban

1224. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Do not observe Saum (fasting) for a day or two days preceding Ramadan. However, if a person is in the habit of observing Saum on a particular day (which may fall on these dates), he may fast on that day.”

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1225. Ibn `Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Do not observe Saum (fasting) before the advent of Ramadan. Observe Saum at sighting of the crescent of Ramadan and terminate it at sighting the crescent (of Shawwal). If the sky is overcast, complete (the month as) thirty (days).”

[At-Tirmidhi].

1226. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “When there comes the middle of Sha`ban, don’t observe Saum (fasting).”

[At-Tirmidhi].

1227. `Ammar bin Yasir (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: He who observes the fast on a doubtful day, has in fact disobeyed Abul-Qasim, (i.e., Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam)).

[Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi].

The Excellence of Optional (Tawawih) Prayer during Ramadan

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The Excellence of Optional (Tawawih) Prayer during Ramadan

1187.  Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “He who observes optional prayer (Tarawih prayers) throughout Ramadan, out of sincerity of Faith and in the hope of earning reward will have his past sins pardoned.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1188.  Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) used to urge (the people) to perform (optional Tarawih) prayer at night during the month of Ramadan. He did not order them or make it obligatory on them. He (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Whosoever performs (optional Tarawih) prayers at night during the month of Ramadan, with Faith and in the hope of receiving Allah’s reward, will have his past sins forgiven.”
[Muslim].

 

Sunnah of Friday Prayer

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Sunnah of Friday Prayer

`Abdullah bin `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: I performed along with the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) two Rak`ah (Sunnah prayer) after the Jumu’ah prayer.
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1126. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him)reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “If anyone of you performs the Friday prayer, he should perform four Rak`ah (Sunnah) after it.”
[Muslim].

1127. Ibn `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) would not perform any Salat (in the mosque) after the Friday prayer till he had returned to his house. He would then perform two Rak`ah there.
[Muslim].

Source: dar-us-salam english edition of riyad-us-saliheen

 

Emphasis on Performing two Rak’ah Sunnah before Dawn (Fajr) Prayer

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Emphasis on Performing two Rak’ah Sunnah before Dawn (Fajr) Prayer

1100. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) never omitted four Rak`ah prayer before the Zuhr prayer and two Rak`ah prayers before dawn (Fajr) prayer.
[Al-Bukhari].

1101. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) did not attach more importance to any Nawafil prayer than the two Rak`ah of prayer before dawn (Fajr) prayer.
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1102. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “The two Rak`ah before the dawn (Fajr) prayer are better than this world and all it contains.”
[Muslim]

Another narration goes: “The two Rak`ah before the dawn (Fajr) prayer are dearer to me than the whole world.”

1103. Abu `Abdullah Bilal bin Rabah (May Allah be pleased with him) the Mu’adhdhin of Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) reported: I went to inform the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) about the time of the dawn (Fajr) prayer, and `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) kept me busy and began to ask me about something till the day grew bright. Then I got up and informed the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) of the time of Salat. I informed him again but he did not came out immediately to lead As-Salat. When he came out, he led As-Salat. I said to him: `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) kept me busy and thus diverted my attention by asking about something and the morning grew bright. You also came out late. Upon that the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “I was engaged in performing two Rak`ah of Fajr prayer.” Bilal (May Allah be pleased with him)said: “O Messenger of Allah! You delayed As-Salat so long as the morning grew bright.” He (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) replied, “Even if the morning had become brighter than it had, I would have performed two Rak`ah of prayer in an excellent manner.”
[Abu Dawud].

The Excellence of As-Salat (The Prayer)

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The Excellence of As-Salat (The Prayer)

Allah, the Exalted, says:

“Verily, As-Salat (the prayer) prevents from Al-Fahsha’ (i.e., great sins of every kind, unlawful sexual intercourse) and Al-Munkar (i.e., disbelief, polytheism, and every kind of evil, wicked deed).” (29:45)

1042. Abu Hurairahu (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I heard the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) saying, “Say, if there were a river at the door of one of you in which he takes a bath five times a day, would any soiling remain on him?” They replied, “No soiling would left on him.” He (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, ” That is the five (obligatory) Salat (prayers). Allah obliterates all sins as a result of performing them.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1043. Jabiru (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “The similitude of the five (obligatory) Salat  is like a river running at the door of one of you in which he takes a bath five times a day.”
[Muslim].

1044. Ibn Mas`ud (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: A man kissed a woman. So he came to the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) and informed him about it. Then Allah revealed this Ayah: “And perform the Salat, between the two ends of the day and in some hours of the night. Verily, the good deeds efface the evil deeds (i.e., minor sins).” (11:114) The man asked the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) whether this applies to him only. The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “It applies to all of my Ummah.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1045. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “The five (daily) Salat (prayers) and the Friday (prayer) to the Friday (prayer) expiate whatever (minor sins) may be committed in between, so long as major sins are avoided.”
[Muslim].

1046. `Uthman bin `Affan (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I heard Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) saying, “When the time for a prescribed Salat is due and a Muslim performs its Wudu’ and its acts of bowing and prostration properly, this Salat will be an expiation for his past sins, so long as he does not commit major sins, and this applies for ever.”
[Muslim].

Warning against forgetting the Qur’an

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Warning against forgetting the Qur’an

1002. Abu Musa Al-Ash`ari (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Read the Qur’an regularly. By the One in Whose Hand Muhammad’s soul is, it escapes from memory faster than a camel does from its tying ropes.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1003. Ibn `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said: “The parable of one who knows the Qur’an by heart is as the parable of an owner of hobbled camel. If he remains vigilant, he will retain it; and if he neglects it, it will go away.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

The Excellence of Spending out Charity during Ramadan

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The Excellence of Spending out Charity during Ramadan

1222. Ibn `Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) was the most generous of the men; and he was the most generous during the month of Ramadan when Jibril visited him every night and recited the Qur’an to him. During this period, the generosity of Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) waxed faster than the rain bearing wind.
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1223. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: When the last ten nights (of Ramadan) would begin, the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) would keep awake at night (for prayer and devotion), awaken his family and prepare himself to be more diligent in worship.
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

The Excellence of Observing Saum (Fasts) during Ramadan

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The Excellence of Observing Saum (Fasts) during Ramadan

Allah, the Exalted, says:

“O you who believe! the fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqun (the pious). (Fasting) for a fixed number of days, but if any of you is ill or on a journey, the same number (should be made up) from other days. And as for those who can fast with difficulty, (e.g., an old man), they have (a choice either to fast or) to feed a Miskin (poor person) (for every day). But whoever does good of his own accord, it is better for him. And that you fast is better for you if only you know. The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong). So whoever of you sights (the crescent on the first night of) the month (of Ramadan, i.e., is present at his home), he must fast that month, and whoever is ill or on a journey, the same number (of days which one did not fast must be made up) from other days.” (2:183-185)

1215. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Allah the Exalted and Majestic said: `Every act of the son of Adam is for him, except As-Siyam (the fasting) which is (exclusively) for Me, and I will reward him for it.’ Fasting is a shield. When anyone of you is observing fast, he should neither indulge in obscene language nor should he raise his voice; and if anyone reviles him or tries to quarrel with him, he should say: `I am fasting.’ By Him in Whose Hand the soul of Muhammad is, the breath of one observing Saum is sweeter to Allah than the fragrance of musk. The one who fasts, experiences two joys: he feels pleasure when he breaks the fast. He is joyful by virtue of his fast when he meets his Rubb.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

   In a narration by Al-Bukhari, the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Allah says: `(The person observing Saum) has abstained from food and drink, and sexual pleasures for My sake; fasting is for Me, and I will bestow its reward. Every good deed has ten times its reward‘.”

   In a narration by Muslim, the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “The reward of every (good) deed of a person is multiplied from ten to seven hundred times. Allah (SWT) says: `The reward of observing Saum is different from the reward of other good deeds; Saum is for Me, and I Alone will give its reward. The person observing Saum abstains from food and drink only for My sake.’ The fasting person has two joyous occasions, one at the time of breaking his fast, and the other at the time of meeting his Rubb. Surely, the breath of one observing Saum is better smelling to Allah than the fragrance of musk.”

1216. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “He who spends a pair in the way of Allah will be called from the gates of Jannah: `O slave of Allah! This gate is better for you’ and one who is constant in Salat (prayer), will be called from the Gate of Salat; and whoever is eager in fighting in the Cause of Allah, will be called from the Gate of Jihad; and who is regular in observing Saum will be called from Ar-Raiyan Gate. The one who is generous in charity will be called from the Gate of Charity.” Abu Bakr (May Allah be pleased with him) said: “O Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam)! May my mother and father be sacrificed for you! Those who are called from these gates will stand in need of nothing. Will anybody be called from all of those gates?” He replied, “Yes, and I hope that you will be one of them.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1217. Sahl bin Sa`d (May Allah be pleased with him): The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “In Jannah there is a gate which is called Ar-Raiyan through which only those who observe Saum (fasting) will enter on the Day of Resurrection. None else will enter through it. It will be called out, “Where are those who observe fasting?” So they will stand up and proceed towards it. When the last of them will have entered, the gate will be closed and then no one will enter through that gate.”
[Muslim].

1218. Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Every slave of Allah who observes Saum (fasting) for one day for the sake of Allah, Allah will draw his face farther from Hell-fire to the extent of a distance to be covered in seventy years.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1219.  Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “He who observes fasting during the month of Ramadan with Faith while seeking its reward from Allah, will have his past sins forgiven.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1220.  Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “When Ramadan begins, the gates of Jannah are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained.”

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1221. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Observe Saum (fast) on sighting the crescent and terminate it on sighting it (the new moon), but if the sky is cloudy before you, then complete the number (thirty days) of the month.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

The Excellence and Obligation of the Payment of Zakat

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The Excellence and Obligation of the Payment of Zakat

Allah, the Exalted, says:

“And perform Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat), and give Zakat.” (2:43)

“And they were commanded not, but that they should worship Allah, and worship none but Him Alone (abstaining from ascribing partners to Him), and perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat) and give Zakat, and that is the right religion.” (98:5)

“Take Sadaqah (alms) from their wealth in order to purify them and sanctify them with it.” (9:103)

1206.  Ibn `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “(The structure of) Islam is built on five (pillars): Testification of `La ilaha illallah’ (none has the right to be worshipped but Allah), that Muhammad (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) is his slave and Messenger, the establishment of Salat, the payment of Zakat, the pilgrimage to the House of Allah (Ka`bah), and Saum during the month of Ramadan.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1207.  Talhah bin `Ubaidullah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: A person with dishevelled hair, one of the people of Najd, came to the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam). We heard the humming of his voice but could not fully understand what he was saying, till he approached close to the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam). Then I came to know that he was asking about Islam. The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said: “There are five (obligatory) Salat during the day and the night.” He said: “Am I obliged to perform any other (Salat) besides these?” The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “No, but whatever you observe voluntarily.” He (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) added, “There is the Saum of Ramadan.” The inquirer asked: “Am I obliged to do anything besides this?” The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “No, but whatever you do out of your own free will. You may observe voluntary fasting.” And the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) told him about the Zakat (obligatory charity). The inquirer asked: “Am I obliged to pay anything besides this?” The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “No, but whatever you pay voluntarily out of your own free will.” That man turned back saying: “By Allah! I will neither make any addition to this nor will I decrease anything from it.” (Upon hearing this) the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) remarked, “He is successful if he proves truthful (to what he is saying).”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1208. Ibn `Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) appointed Mu`adh (May Allah be pleased with him) as governor of Yemen, and at the time of his departure, he instructed him thus: “First of all, call the people to testify `La ilaha illallah’ (there is no true god except Allah) and that I (Muhammad) am the Messenger of Allah, and if they accept this (declaration of Faith), then tell them that Allah has enjoined upon them five Salat during the day and night; and if they obey you, tell them that Allah has made the payment of Zakat obligatory upon them. It should be collected from their rich and distributed among their poor.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1209. Ibn `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “I have been commanded to fight people till they testify `La ilaha illallah’ (there is no true god except Allah) that Muhammad (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) is his slave and Messenger, and they establish Salat, and pay Zakat; and if they do this, their blood (life) and property are secured except when justified by law, and it is for Allah to call them to account.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1210. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: When the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) passed away, Abu Bakr (May Allah be pleased with him) was appointed as his successor (caliph). Amongst the Arabs some men apostatised. Abu Bakr (May Allah be pleased with him) resolved to fight them. `Umar bin Al-Khattab (May Allah be pleased with him) said to Abu Bakr: “How can you fight them when the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) has declared: `I have been commanded to fight people till they testify La ilaha illallah (there is no true god except Allah); and if they do it, their blood (life) and property are secured except when justified by law, and it is for Allah to call them to account.” Upon this Abu Bakr (May Allah be pleased with him) said: “By Allah, I would definitely fight him who makes distinction between Salat and the Zakat, because it is an obligation upon the rich to pay Zakat. By Allah I will fight them even to secure the piece of rope which they used to give to the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam).” `Umar (May Allah be pleased with him) said: “I realized that Allah opened the heart of Abu Bakr (May Allah be pleased with him) for fighting those who refused to pay Zakat, and I fully recognized that Abu Bakr ¨(May Allah be pleased with him) was right.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1211. Abu Ayyub (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: A man said to the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam): “Direct me to a deed which may admit me to Jannah.” Upon this he (the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam)) said, “Worship Allah and never associate anything with Him in worship, establish Salat, pay Zakat, and strengthen the ties of kinship.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1212. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: A bedouin came to the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) and said: “O Messenger of Allah! Direct me to a deed by which I may be entitled to enter Jannah.” The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Worship Allah, and never associate anything with Him, establish Salat, pay the Zakat which has been enjoined upon you, and observe Saum of Ramadan.” He (the bedouin) said: “By Him in Whose Hand my soul is, I will never add anything to these (obligations).” When he turned his back, the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “He who wants to see a man from the dwellers of Jannah, let him look at him (bedouin).”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1213. Jarir bin `Abdullah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I pledged allegiance to the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) to establish Salat, to pay the Zakat and to have the welfare of every Muslim at heart.
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1214. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Any person who possesses gold or silver and does not pay what is due on it (i.e., the Zakat); on the Day of Resurrection, sheets of silver and gold would be heated for him in the fire of Hell and with them his flank, forehead and back will be branded. When they cool down, they will be heated again and the same process will be repeated during the day the measure whereof will be fifty thousand years. (This would go on) until Judgement is pronounced among (Allah’s) slaves, and he will be shown his final abode, either to Jannah or to Hell.” It was asked, “How about someone who owns camels and does not pay what is due on him (i.e., their Zakat)?” He (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) replied, “In the same way the owner of camels who does not discharge what is due in respect of them (their due includes their milking on the day when they are taken to water) will be thrown on his face or on his back in a vast desert plain on the Day of Resurrection and they will trample upon him with their hoofs and bite him with their teeth. As often as the first of them passes him, the last of them will be made to return during a day the measure whereof will be fifty thousand years, until Judgement is pronounced among (Allah’s) slaves, he will be shown his final abode either to Jannah or to Hell.” It was (again) asked: “O Messenger of Allah, what about cows (cattle) and sheep?” He (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “If anyone who possesses cattle and sheep and does not pay what is due on them (i.e., their Zakat); on the Day of Resurrection, he will be thrown on his face in a vast plain desert. He will find none of the animals missing with twisted horns, without horns or with a broken horn, and they will gore him with their horns and trample upon him with their hoofs. As often as the first of them passes him, the last of them will be made to return to him during a day the measure whereof will be fifty thousand years, until Judgement is pronounced among (Allah’s) slaves; and he will be shown his final abode either to Jannah or to Hell.” It was asked: “O Messenger of Allah, what about the horses?” Upon this he (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “The horses are of three types. One, which is a burden for the owner; another which is a shield, and another one which makes its owner entitled to reward. The one for whom these are a burden is the person who rears them for show or for pride or for causing injury to the sentiments of the Muslims. They will be a cause of torment for their owners. The one for whom these are a shield is the person who rears them for the sake of Allah but does not forget the Right of Allah concerning their backs and their necks (i.e., he lets a needy ride on them), and so they are a shield for him. Those which bring reward to the one who rears them in pastures and gardens are the ones that are used in the Cause of Allah (Jihad) by the Muslims. Whatever they eat from the meadows and the gardens will be recorded on his behalf as good deeds so much so that their droppings and urine will be counted for an equal number of good deeds for him. Even when they break their tying rope and every height from which they climb and every hoofprint which they leave will be counted as a good deed on behalf of the owner. When their owner leads them through a stream from which they drink, though he does not intend to quench their thirst, yet Allah would record for him the quantity (of water) of what they would drink on his behalf as good deeds.” It was asked: “O Messenger of Allah, what about the donkeys?” Upon this he (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Nothing has been revealed to me in regard to the donkeys in particular except this one Verse of a comprehensive nature: “So whosoever does good equal to the weight of an atom (or a small ant) shall see it. And whosoever does evil equal to the weight of an atom (or a small ant) shall see it.”’ (99: 8,9).
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

The Excellence of using Miswak (Tooth-Stick)

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The Excellence of using Miswak (Tooth-Stick)

1196. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Had I not thought it difficult for my Ummah, I would have commanded them to use the Miswak (tooth-stick) before every Salat.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1197.  Hudaifah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Whenever the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) got up (from sleep), he would rub his teeth with Miswak (tooth-stick).
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1198.  `Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) reported: We used to prepare for the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) a Miswak (tooth-stick) and the water for making Wudu’. Whenever Allah wished to awaken him from sleep at night, he (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) would brush his teeth with Miswak, make Wudu’, and perform Salat.
[Muslim].

1199.  Anas (May Allah be pleased with him)reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “I stress upon you to use Miswak (tooth-stick).”
[Al-Bukhari].

1200. Shuraih bin Hani (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I asked `Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her): “What was the first thing which the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) would do when he entered his house?” She replied: “He would use Miswak (tooth-stick).”
[Muslim].

1201. Abu Musa Al-Ash`ari (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I came to the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) once and noticed the tip of Miswak (tooth-stick) on his tongue.
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1202.  `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “The Miswak (tooth-stick) cleanses and purifies the mouth and pleases the Rubb.”
[An-Nasa’i and Ibn Khuzaimah].

1203. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “There are five acts which conform to the pure nature: Circumcision, removing of the pubic hair, clipping the nails, plucking the underarm hair and trimming the moustache.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1204.  `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “There are ten demands of pure nature: trimming the moustache, letting the beard grow, using Miswak (tooth-stick), snuffing up water into the nose (in ablution), paring the nails, washing the bases of the finger joints; plucking the underarm hair, removing of the pubic hair and removing impurities with water from the affected part after a call of nature.”

The subnarrator said: I forgot the tenth but it might possibly be the rinsing of the mouth (in ablution).
[Muslim].

1205. Ibn `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Trim the moustaches and let the beard grow.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

The Superiority of Lailat-ul-Qadr (the Night of Decree)

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Chapter 214
The Superiority of Lailat-ul-Qadr (the Night of Decree)

Allah, the Exalted, says:

“Verily, We have sent it (this Qur’an) down in the Night of Al-Qadr (Decree). And what will make you know what the Night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is? The Night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is better than a thousand months (i.e., worshipping Allah in that night is better than worshipping Him a thousand months, i.e., 83 years and 4 months). Therein descend the angels and the Ruh [Jibril (Gabriel)] by Allah’s Permission with all Decrees. (All that night), there is peace (and goodness from Allah to His believing slaves) until the appearance of dawn.” (97:1-5)

“We sent it (this Qur’an) down on a blessed night [(i.e., the Night of Al-Qadr, Surah No:97) in the month of Ramadan, the 9th month of the Islamic calendar]. Verily, We are ever warning [mankind that Our Torment will reach those who disbelieve in Our Oneness of Lordship and in Our Oneness of worship]. Therein (that night) is decreed every matter of ordainments (i.e., the matters of deaths, births, provisions, and calamities for the whole (coming) year as decreed by Allah). As a Command (or this Qur’an or the Decree of every matter) from Us. Verily, We are ever sending (the Messengers). (As) a Mercy from your Rubb, Verily! He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower.” (44:3-6)

1189. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Whosoever performs Qiyam during Lailat-ul-Qadr (Night of Decree), with Faith and being hopeful of Allah’s reward, will have his former sins forgiven.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1190. Ibn `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: Some of the Companions of the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) saw Lailat-ul-Qadr (Night of Decree) in their dreams in the last seven nights of Ramadan, whereupon the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “I see that your dreams all agree upon the last seven nights. Whosoever seeks it, let him seek it in the last seven nights.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1191. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) used to seclude himself (in the mosque) during the last ten nights of Ramadan. He would say, “Search for Lailat-ul-Qadr (Night of Decree) in the last ten nights of Ramadan.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1192.  `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) used to observe I`tikaf in the last ten days of Ramadan and say, “Seek Lailat-ul-Qadr (Night of Decree) in the odd nights out of the last ten nights of Ramadan.”
[Al-Bukhari].

1193.  `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: When the last ten nights (of Ramadan) would begin, the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) would keep awake at night (for prayer and devotion), awaken his family and prepare himself to be more diligent in worship.
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

1194.  `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) used to strive more in worship during Ramadan than he strove in any other time of the year; and he would devote himself more (in the worship of Allah) in the last ten nights of Ramadan than he strove in earlier part of the month.
[Muslim].

1195. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: I asked: “O Messenger of Allah! If I realize Lailat-ul-Qadr (Night of Decree), what should I supplicate in it?” He (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) replied, “You should supplicate: Allahumma innaka `afuwwun, tuhibbul-`afwa, fa`fu `anni (O Allah, You are Most Forgiving, and You love forgiveness; so forgive me).”
[At-Tirmidhi].

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