Supplication if one Fears (Harm)

Imam Al-Nawawi’s Riyad-us-Saliheen
Chapter 173
Supplication if one Fears (Harm)

981. Abu Musa Al-Ashari (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: When the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam), feared mischief from a people, he would supplicate: “Allahumma inna naj`aluka fi nuhurihim, wa na`udhu bika min shururihim (O Allah! We ask You to face them, and seek Your Protection against their evil.”
[Abu Dawud and An-Nasa’i].

Supplication for the Sick

Imam Al-Nawawi’s Riyad-us-Saliheen
Chapter 145
Supplication for the Sick

901. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: When a person complained to the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) about an ailment or suffered from a sore or a wound, the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) would touch the ground with his forefinger and then raise it (Sufyan bin `Uyainah, the narrator, demonstrated this with his forefinger) and would recite: `Bismil-lahi, turbatu ardina, biriqati ba`dina, yushfa bihi saqimuni, bi ‘idhni Rabbina’ (With the Name of Allah, the dust of our ground mixed with the saliva of some of us would cure our patient with the permission of our Rubb.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

902. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: When the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) visited any ailing member of his family, he would touch the sick person with his right hand and would supplicate: “Allahumma Rabban-nasi, adhhibil-ba’sa, washfi, Antash-Shafi, la shifa’a illa shifa’uka, shifaan la yughadiru saqaman [O Allah! the Rubb of mankind! Remove this disease and cure (him or her)! You are the Great Curer. There is no cure but through You, which leaves behind no disease].”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

903. Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I said to Thabit (May Allah had Mercy upon him) Should I not perform Ruqyah (i.e., recite supplication or Quranic Ayat and blow) over you, such supplication as was practised by the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam)?” He said: “Please do so.” Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) supplicated: “Allahumma Rabban-nasi, mudh-hibal-ba’si, ishfi Antash-Shafi, la shafiya illa Anta, shifa’an la yughadiru saqaman [O Allah! the Rubb of mankind! Take away this disease and cure (him or her). You are the Curer. There is no cure except through You. Cure (him or her), a cure that leaves no disease].”
[Al-Bukhari].

904. Sa`d bin Abu Waqqas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) visited me during my illness and supplicated, “O Allah! Cure Sa`d. O Allah! Cure Sa`d. O’ Allah! Cure Sa`d.”
[Muslim].

905. Abu `Abdullah bin Abul-`as (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I complained to the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) about a pain I had in my body. The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Place your hand where you feel pain and say: `Bismillah (With the Name of Allah)’ three times; and then repeat seven times: `A`udhu bi`izzatillahi wa qudratihi min sharri ma ajidu wa `uhadhiru (I seek refuge with Allah and with His Power from the evil that afflicts me and that which I apprehend).”’
[
Muslim].

906. Ibn `Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “He who visits a sick person who is not on the point of death and supplicates seven times: As’alullahal-`Azima Rabbal-`Arshil-`Azimi, an yashfiyaka (I beseech Allah the Great, the Rubb of the Great Throne, to heal you), Allah will certainly heal him from that sickness.”
[Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi].

907. Ibn `Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) visited a bedouin who was sick. Whenever he visited an ailing person, he would say, “La ba’sa, tahurun in sha’ Allah [No harm, (it will be a) purification (from sins), if Allah wills].”
[Al-Bukhari].

908. Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Jibril (Gabriel) came to the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) and said: “O Muhammad (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam)! Do you feel sick?” He (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Yes.” Jibril supplicated thus (i.e., he performed Ruqyah): “Bismillahi arqika, min kulli shay’in yu’dhika, min sharri kulli nafsin aw `ayni hasidi, Allahu yashfika, bismillahi arqika. [With the Name of Allah. I recite over you (to cleanse you) from all that troubles you, and from every harmful mischief and from the evil of the eyes of an envier. Allah will cure you; and with the Name of Allah, I recite over you].”
[Muslim].

909. Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri and Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “If a person says: `La ilaha illallahu wallahu Akbar (There is no true god except Allah and Allah is Greatest)’, his Rubb responds to him and affirms: `(Yes!) There is no true god except I, and I am the Greatest.’ When he says: `La ilaha illallahu Wahdahu la sharika Lahu (There is no true god except Allah, the One, He has no partner).’ Allah (SWT) affirms: `(Yes!) There is no true god except I. I have no partner.’ When he says: `La ilaha illallahu Lahul mulku wa Lahul-hamdu (the sovereignty belongs to Him and all the praise is due to Him).’ He (SWT) affirms: `(Yes!) There is no true god except I, Mine is the praise and to Me belongs the sovereignty.’ When he says: `La ilaha illallahu wa la hawla wa la quwwata illa Billah (There is no true god except Allah, and there is no might and power but with Allah).’ He (SWT) affirms: `(Yes!) There is no true god except I, and there is no might and power but with Me.”’ The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) added, “He who recites this during his illness and dies, will not be touched by the Fire (Hell).”
[At-Tirmidhu].

Desirability of Supplications during the Journey

Imam Al-Nawawi’s Riyad-us-Saliheen
Chapter 172
Desirability of Supplications during the Journey

980. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Three supplications are answered without doubt. The supplication of the oppressed, the supplication of the traveller, and the supplication of the parent for his son.”
[At-Tirmidhi and Abu Dawud].

Supplications in Funeral Prayers

Imam Al-Nawawi’s Riyad-us-Saliheen
Chapter 157
Supplications in Funeral Prayers

To pronounce four Takbir (saying Allahu Akbar) in the funeral prayer. After the first Takbir, after saying A`udhu billahi minash-Shaitanir-rajim, recite Surat Al-Fatihah. After the second Takbir, send Salam [Allahumma Salli `ala Muhammadin wa `ala ali Muhammadin kama sallaita `ala Ibrahima wa `ala ali Ibrahima, innaka Hamidun Majid. Allahumma barik `ala Muhammadin wa `ala ali Muhammadin, kama barakta `ala Ibrahima, wa `ala ali Ibrahima, innaka Hamidun Majid. Then after the third Takbir, invoke supplication for the deceased and for the Muslims as we will mention later on, in sha’ Allah. After the fourth Takbir, supplicate Allah. (Some of the supplications of the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam), which are to be recited after the third Takbir are mentioned in the following Ahadith:)

935. Abu `Abdur-Rahman `Auf bin Malik (May Allah be pleased with him)  reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) offered a funeral prayer and I memorized his supplication. He (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) prayed: “Allahummaghfir lahu, warhamhu, wa `afihi, wa`fu `anhu, wa akrim nuzulahu, wa wassi` mudkhalahu, waghsilhu bil-ma’i wath-thalji wal-baradi, wa naqqihi minal-khataya, kama naqqaytath-thawbal-abyada minad-danasi, wa abdilhu daran khairan min darihi, wa ahlan khairan min ahlihi, wa zawjan khairan min zawjihi, wa adkhilhul-Jannata, wa a`idh-hu min `adhabil-qabri, wa min `adhabin-nar [if the dead person is a woman, one should change the ending of certain words in this supplication from hu to ha] (O Allah! Forgive him, bestow mercy upon him, pardon him, accord him a noble provision and make his grave spacious, wash him with water, snow and hail, purify him from sins as You have purified the white garment from soiling, give him a better abode in place of his present one, and a better family in exchange of his present one, and a better spouse in place of his present wife; admit him to Jannah and protect from the trial in the grave and punishment in the Hell).” (After hearing this supplication of the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam), Abu’ Abdur-Rahman ‘Auf bin Malik (May Allah be pleased with him) said: I wished I had been that dead man.
[Muslim].

936. Abu Hurairah, Abu Qatadah, and Abu Ibrahim Al-Ash-hali (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) offered a funeral prayer and said: “Allahummaghfir lihaiyina wa maiyitina, wa saghirina wa kabirina, wa dhakarina wa unthana, wa shahidina wa gha’ibina. Allahumma man ahyaiytahu minna, fa’ahyihi `alal-Islam, wa man tawaffaiytahu minna, fatawaffahu `alal-Iman. Allahumma la tahrimna ajrahu, wa la taftinna ba`dahu (O Allah, forgive our living and our dead, our present and our absent, our young and our old, our male and our female. O Allah, whosoever of us You keep alive, keep him alive (faithful) to IslÀm, and whosoever of us You cause to die, let him die having Iman. O Allah, do not deprive us of our reward (for being patient) and do not subject us to trials after his death.”
[Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi].

937. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I heard the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) saying: “When you pray over the dead, make a sincere supplication for him.”
[Abu Dawud and Ibn Majah].

938. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him)  reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) supplicated in course of funeral prayer: “Allahumma Anta Rabbuha, wa Anta khalaqtaha, wa Anta hadaytaha lil-Islam, wa Anta qabadta ruhaha, wa Anta a`lamu bisirriha wa `alaniyyatiha, ji’naka shufa`a’a lahu [if the dead person is a man, or laha if the dead person is a woman], faghfir lahu [or laha, if it is a woman] (O Allah, You are its Rubb; You created it; You guided it to Islam; You have taken its life back and You know best its insight and outer condition. We have come as intercessors, so forgive him).”
[Abu Dawud].

939. Wathilah bin Al-Asqa` (May Allah be pleased with him)  reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) led the funeral prayer of a Muslim man in our presence, and I heard him saying “Allahumma inna [name of the dead person] fi dhimmatika wa habli jiwarika, faqihi fitnatal-qabri; wa `adhaban-Nari, wa Anta ahlul-wafa’i wal-hamdi; Allahumma faghfir lahu warhamhu, innaka Antal-Ghafur-ur-Rahim [If the dead person is a woman, one can change hu in some words here with ha] [O Allah, (so-and-so son of so-and-so) is in Your Protection and inside the surroundings of Your Refuge. Safeguard him from the trial of the grave and the punishment of the Hell. You keep Your Promise and You deserve to be praised. O Allah! Forgive him and be merciful to him. Indeed, You are the Forgiving, the Merciful].”
[Abu Dawud].

940. `Abdullah bin Abu Aufa (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: While offering the funeral prayer of one of his daughters, he recited four Takbir, and after the fourth Takbir he continued standing for a time equal to an interval between two Takbir, praying for her and seeking Allah’s forgiveness for her.” Then he said: “The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) used to do so.”

 Another narration is: He (Abdullah) recited four Takbir and remained standing in prayer for some time till we thought that he would recite the fifth Takbir. Then he gave Salam on the right and on the left. When he turned aside, we asked him about it. He replied: “I would add nothing to what I saw the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) doing,” or he said: “The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) used to do so.”
[Al-Hakim].

 

Supplication at the time of returning Home and on seeing one’s Hometown

Chapter 177
Supplication at the time of returning Home and on seeing one’s Hometown

987. Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: We returned with the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) from a journey; and when we entered the suburbs of Al-Madinah, he (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said: “Ayibuna, ta’ibuna, `abiduna, li-Rabbina hamidun (We are returning in safety, turning to our Rubb, worshipping Him and praising Him).” He (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) continued repeating these words till we entered Al-Madinah.
[Muslim].

Supplication at the time of wearing new Dress or Shoes

Imam Al-Nawawi’s Riyad-us-Saliheen
Chapter 125
Supplication at the time of wearing new Dress or Shoes

813.  Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: When Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) wore a new garment, he would name it. For instance, a turban or shirt or cloak and would supplicate: “Allahumma lakal-hamdu, Anta kasautanihi, as`aluka khairahu wa khaira ma suni`a lahu, wa a`udhu bika min sharrihi wa sharri ma suni`a lahu (O Allah, all the praise is for You that You have given it to me to put on. I ask You its goodness and the goodness of the purpose for which it was made, and I seek Your Protection from its evil and the evil of the purpose for which it was made).”
[Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi].

What is to be said at the time of Sleeping

Imam Al-Nawawi’s Riyad-us-Saliheen
Chapter 127
What is to be said at the time of Sleeping

814. Al-Bara’ bin `Azib (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: Whenever Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) went to bed, he would lie down on his right side and recite: “Allahumma aslamtu nafsi ilaika, wa wajjahtu wajhi ilaika, wa fawwadtu amri ilaika, wa ‘alja’tu zahri ilaika, raghbatan wa rahbatan ilaika, la malja’a wa la manja illa ilaika. Amantu bikitabikal-ladhi anzalta, wa nabiyyikal-ladhi arsalta [O Allah! I have submitted myself to You, I have turned my face to You, committed my affairs to You, and depend on You for protection out of desire for You and out of fear of You (expecting Your reward and fearing Your punishment). There is no refuge and no place of safety from You but with You. I believed in the Book You have revealed, and in the Prophet You have sent (i.e., Muhammad (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam)).]”
[Al-Bukhari].

815. Al-Bara’ bin `Azib (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) directed me thus: “Whenever you go to bed, perform Wudu’ as you do for Salat then (before sleeping) recite: `O Allah! I have submitted myself to You, I have turned myself to You, committed my affairs to You and sought Your refuge for protection out of desire for You and fear of You (expecting Your reward and fearing Your punishment). There is no refuge and no place of safety from You but with You. I believe in the Book You have revealed and in the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) You have sent.”’ Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) added: “If anyone recites these words and dies during the night, he will die on the true Deen, and if he remains alive till the morning, he will obtain good. And make this supplication your last words (before sleeping).”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

816. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) used to offer eleven Rak`ah of optional Salat (prayers) in the latter part of night. When it was about dawn, he would offer two short Rak`ah and then would lie down on his right side till the Mu’adhdhin (one who calls for prayer) would come to inform him that the congregation had gathered (for prayer).
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

817. Hudhaifah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Whenever the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) lay down for sleep at night, he would place his (right) hand under his (right) cheek and supplicate: “Bismika Allahumma amutu wa ahya [O Allah, with Your Name will I die and live (wake up)].” And when he woke up, he would supplicate: “Al-hamdu lillahil-ladhi ahyana ba`da ma amatana, wa ilaihin-nushur (All praise is due to Allah, Who has brought us back to life after He has caused us to die, and to Him is the return).”
[Al-Bukhari].

818. Ya`ish bin Tikhfah Al-Ghifari (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: My father said: I was lying down on my belly in the mosque when someone shook me with his foot and said, “Lying down this way is disapproved by Allah.” I looked up and saw that it was Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam).
[Abu Dawud].

819. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “Whoever sits in a place where he does not remember Allah (SWT), he will suffer loss and incur displeasure of Allah; and whoever lies down (to sleep) in a place where he does not remember Allah, he will suffer sorrow and incur displeasure of Allah.”
[Abu Dawud].

Istikhara (Seeking Guidance from Allah), and Consultation

Imam Al-Nawawi’s Riyad-us-Saliheen
Chapter 97
Istikhara (Seeking Guidance from Allah), and Consultation

Allah, the Exalted, says:

“And consult them in the affairs.” (3:159)

“And who (conduct) their affairs by mutual consultation.” (42:38)

718. Jabir (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) used to teach us the Istikharah (seeking guidance from Allah) in all matters as he would teach us a Surah of the Qur’an. He used to say: “When one of you contemplates entering upon an enterprise, let him perform two Rak`ah of optional prayer other than Fard prayers and then supplicate: “Allahumma inni astakhiruka bi `ilmika, wa astaqdiruka bi qudratika, wa as-‘aluka min fadlikal-`azim. Fainnaka taqdiru wa la aqdiru, wa ta`lamu wa la a`lamu, wa Anta `allamul-ghuyub. Allahumma in kunta ta`lamu anna hadhal-`amra (and name what you want to do) khairun li fi dini wa ma`ashi wa `aqibati amri, (or he said) `ajili amri ajilihi, faqdurhu li wa yassirhu li, thumma barik li fihi. Wa in kunta ta`lamu anna hadhal `amra (and name what you want to do) sharrun li fi dini wa ma`ashi wa `aqibati amri, (or he said) wa `ajili amri wa ajilihi, fasrifhu `anni, wasrifni `anhu, waqdur liyal-khaira haithu kana, thumma ardini bihi.” (O Allah, I consult You through Your Knowledge, and I seek strength through Your Power, and ask of Your Great Bounty; for You are Capable whereas I am not and, You know and I do not, and You are the Knower of hidden things. O Allah, if You know that this matter (and name it) is good for me in respect of my Deen, my livelihood and the consequences of my affairs, (or he said), the sooner or the later of my affairs then ordain it for me, make it easy for me, and bless it for me. But if You know this matter (and name it) to be bad for my Deen, my livelihood or the consequences of my affairs, (or he said) the sooner or the later of my affairs then turn it away from me, and turn me away from it, and grant me power to do good whatever it may be, and cause me to be contented with it). And let the supplicant specify the object.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

* Sahih Bukhari : Book 17: Invoking Allah for Rain (Istisqaa)

Translation of Sahih Bukhari, Book 17:

Invoking Allah for Rain (Istisqaa)

Volume 2, Book 17, Number 119:

Narrated ‘Abbas bin Tamim’s uncle:

The Prophet (p.b.u.h) went out to offer the Istisqa’ prayer and turned (and put on) his cloak inside out.


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 120:

Narrated Abu Huraira;

Whenever the Prophet (p.b.u.h) lifted his head from the bowing in the last Raka he used to say: “O Allah! Save ‘Aiyash bin Abi Rabi’a. O Allah! Save Salama bin Hisham. O Allah! Save Walid bin Walid. O Allah! Save the weak faithful believers. O Allah! Be hard on the tribes of Mudar and send (famine) years on them like the famine years of (Prophet) Joseph .” The Prophet further said, “Allah forgive the tribes of Ghifar and save the tribes of Aslam.” Abu Az-Zinad (a sub-narrator) said, “The Qunut used to be recited by the Prophet in the Fajr prayer.”


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 121:

Narrated Masruq:

We were with ‘Abdullah and he said, “When the Prophet saw the refusal of the people to accept Islam he said, “O Allah! Send (famine) years on them for (seven years) like the seven years (of famine during the time) of (Prophet) Joseph.” So famine overtook them for one year and destroyed every kind of life to such an extent that the people started eating hides, carcasses and rotten dead animals. Whenever one of them looked towards the sky, he would (imagine himself to) see smoke because of hunger. So Abu Sufyan went to the Prophet and said, “O Muhammad! You order people to obey Allah and to keep good relations with kith and kin. No doubt the people of your tribe are dying, so please pray to Allah for them.” So Allah revealed: “Then watch you For the day that The sky will bring forth a kind Of smoke Plainly visible … Verily! You will return (to disbelief) On the day when We shall seize You with a mighty grasp. (44.10-16) Ibn Masud added, “Al-Batsha (i.e. grasp) happened in the battle of Badr and no doubt smoke, Al-Batsha, Al-Lizam, and the verse of Surat Ar-Rum have all passed .


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 122:

Narrated ‘Abdullah bin Dinar:

My father said, “I heard Ibn ‘Umar reciting the poetic verses of Abu Talib: And a white (person) (i.e. the Prophet) who is requested to pray for rain and who takes care of the orphans and is the guardian of widows.” Salim’s father (Ibn ‘Umar) said, “The following poetic verse occurred to my mind while I was looking at the face of the Prophet (p.b.u.h) while he was praying for rain. He did not get down till the rain water flowed profusely from every roof-g utter: And a white (person) who is requested to pray for rain and who takes care of the orphans and is the guardian of widows . . . And these were the words of Abu Talib.”


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 123:

Narrated Anas:

Whenever drought threatened them, ‘Umar bin Al-Khattab, used to ask Al-Abbas bin ‘Abdul Muttalib to invoke Allah for rain. He used to say, “O Allah! We used to ask our Prophet to invoke You for rain, and You would bless us with rain, and now we ask his uncle to invoke You for rain. O Allah ! Bless us with rain.”(1) And so it would rain.


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 124:

Narrated ‘Abdullah bin Zaid:

The Prophet turned his cloak inside out on Istisqa.


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 125:

Narrated ‘Abdullah bin Zaid

The Prophet went towards the Musalla and invoked Allah for rain. He faced the Qibla and wore his cloak inside out, and offered two Rakat.


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 126:

Narrated Sharik bin ‘Abdullah bin Abi Namir:

I heard Anas bin Malik saying, “On a Friday a person entered the main Mosque through the gate facing the pulpit while Allah’s Apostle was delivering the Khutba. The man stood in front of Allah’s Apostle and said, ‘O Allah’s Apostle! The livestock are dying and the roads are cut off; so please pray to Allah for rain.’ ” Anas added, “Allah’s Apostle (p.b.u.h) raised both his hands and said, ‘O Allah! Bless us with rain! O Allah! Bless us with rain! O Allah! Bless us with rain!’ ” Anas added, “By Allah, we could not see any trace of cloud in the sky and there was no building or a house between us and (the mountains of) Sila.” Anas added, “A heavy cloud like a shield appeared from behind it (i.e. Sila’ Mountain). When it came in the middle of the sky, it spread and then rained.” Anas further said, “By Allah! We could not see the sun for a week. Next Friday a person entered through the same gate and at that time Allah’s Apostle was delivering the Friday’s Khutba. The man stood in front of him and said, ‘O Allah’s Apostle! The livestock are dying and the roads are cut off, please pray to Allah to with-hold rain.’ ” Anas added, “Allah’s Apostle I raised both his hands and said, ‘O Allah! Round about us and not on us. O Allah! On the plateaus, on the mountains, on the hills, in the valleys and on the places where trees grow.’ So the rain stopped and we came out walking in the sun.” Sharik asked Anas whether it was the same person who had asked for the rain (the last Friday). Anas replied that he did not know.


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 127:

Narrated Sharik:

Anas bin Malik said, “A person entered the Mosque on a Friday through the gate facing the Daril-Qada’ and Allah’s Apostle was standing delivering the Khutba (sermon). The man stood in front of Allah’s Apostle and said, ‘O Allah’s Apostle, livestock are dying and the roads are cut off; please pray to Allah for rain.’ So Allah’s Apostle (p.b.u.h) raised both his hands and said, ‘O Allah! Bless us with rain. O Allah! Bless us with rain. O Allah! Bless us with rain!” Anas added, “By Allah, there were no clouds in the sky and there was no house or building between us and the mountain of Silas’. Then a big cloud like a shield appeared from behind it (i.e. Silas Mountain) and when it came in the middle of the sky, it spread and then rained. By Allah! We could not see the sun for a week. The next Friday, a person entered through the same gate and Allah’s Apostle was delivering the Friday Khutba and the man stood in front of him and said, ‘O Allah’s Apostle! The livestock are dying and the roads are cut off; Please pray to Allah to withhold rain.’ ” Anas added, “Allah’s Apostle raised both his hands and said, ‘O Allah! Round about us and not on us. O Allah!’ On the plateaus, on the mountains, on the hills, in the valleys and on the places where trees grow.’ ” Anas added, “The rain stopped and we came out, walking in the sun.” Sharik asked Anas whether it was the same person who had asked for rain the previous Friday. Anas replied that he did not know.


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 128:

Narrated Qatada:

Anas I said, “While Allah’s Apostle (p.b.u.h) was delivering the Friday Khutba (sermon) a man came and said, ‘O Allah’s Apostle! Rain is scarce; please ask Allah to bless us with rain.’ So he invoked Allah for it, and it rained so much that we could hardly reach our homes and it continued raining till the next Friday.” Anas further said, “Then the same or some other person stood up and said, ‘O Allah’s Apostle! Invoke Allah to withhold the rain.’ On that, Allah’s Apostle I said, ‘O Allah! Round about us and not on us.’ ” Anas added, “I saw the clouds dispersing right and left and it continued to rain but not over Medina.”


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 129:

Narrated Anas:

A man came to the Prophet (p.b.u.h) and said, “Livestock are destroyed and the roads are cut off.” So Allah’s Apostle invoked Allah for rain and it rained from that Friday till the next Friday. The same person came again and said, “Houses have collapsed, roads are cut off, and the livestock are destroyed. Please pray to Allah to withhold the rain.” Allah’s Apostle (stood up and) said, “O Allah! (Let it rain) on the plateaus, on the hills, in the valleys and over the places where trees grow.” So the clouds cleared away from Medina as clothes are taken off .


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 130:

Narrated Anas bin Malik:

A man came to Allah’s Apostle and said, “O Allah’s Apostle! Livestock are destroyed and the roads are cut off. So please invoke Allah.” So Allah’s Apostle prayed and it rained from that Friday to the next Friday. Then he came to Allah’s Apostle I and said, “O Allah’s Apostle! Houses have collapsed, roads are cut off and the livestock are destroyed.” So Allah’s Apostle (p.b.u.h) prayed, “O Allah! (Let it rain) on the tops of mountains, on the plateaus, in the valleys and over the places where trees grow.” So the clouds cleared away from Medina as clothes are taken off.


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 131:

Narrated Anas bin Malik

I p man complained to the Prophet about the destruction of livestock and property and the hunger of the offspring. So he invoked (Allah for rain. The narrator (Anas) did not mention that the Prophet had worn his cloak inside out or faced the Qibla.


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 132:

Narrated Anas bin Malik

A man came to Allah’s Apostle and said, “O Allah’s Apostle! Livestock are destroyed and the roads are cut off; so please invoke Allah.” So Allah’s Apostle prayed for rain and it rained from that Friday till the next Friday. Then a man came to the Prophet (p.b.u.h) and said, “O Allah’s Apostle! The houses have collapsed, roads are cut off and the livestock are destroyed.” So Allah’s Apostle said, “O Allah ! (Let it rain) on the tops of the mountains, on the plateaus, in the valleys and over the places where trees grow.” So the clouds cleared away from Medina as clothes are taken off.


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 133:

Narrated Masruq:

One day I went to Ibn Masud who said, “When Quraish delayed in embracing Islam, the Prophet I invoked Allah to curse them, so they were afflicted with a (famine) year because of which many of them died and they ate the carcasses and Abu Sufyan came to the Prophet and said, ‘O Muhammad! You came to order people to keep good relation with kith and kin and your nation is being destroyed, so invoke Allah I ? So the Prophet I recited the Holy verses of Sirat-Ad-Dukhan: ‘Then watch you For the day that The sky will Bring forth a kind Of smoke Plainly visible.’ (44.10) When the famine was taken off, the people renegade once again as nonbelievers. The statement of Allah, (in Sura “Ad-Dukhan”-44) refers to that: ‘On the day when We shall seize You with a mighty grasp.’ (44.16) And that was what happened on the day of the battle of Badr.” Asbath added on the authority of Mansur, “Allah’s Apostle prayed for them and it rained heavily for seven days. So the people complained of the excessive rain. The Prophet said, ‘O Allah! (Let it rain) around us and not on us.’ So the clouds dispersed over his head and it rained over the surroundings.”


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 134:

Narrated Anas:

Allah’s Apostle I was delivering the Khutba (sermon) on a Friday when the people stood up, shouted and said, “O Allah’s Apostle! There is no rain (drought), the trees have dried and the livestock are destroyed; Please pray to Allah for rain.” So Allah’s Apostle said twice, “O Allah! Bless us with rain.” By Allah, there was no trace of cloud in the sky and suddenly the sky became overcast with clouds and it started raining. The Prophet came down the pulpit and offered the prayer. When he came back from the prayer (to his house) it was raining and it rained continuously till the next Friday. When the Prophet started delivering the Friday Khutba (sermon), the people started shouting and said to him, “The houses have collapsed and the roads are cut off; so please pray to Allah to withhold the rain.” So the Prophet smiled and said, “O Allah! Round about us and not on us.” So the sky became clear over Medina but it kept on raining over the outskirts (of Medina) and not a single drop of rain fell over Median. I looked towards the sky which was as bright and clear as a crown.


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 135:

Narrated Abbas bin Tamim

that his uncle (who was one of the companions of the Prophet) had told him, “The Prophet went out with the people to invoke Allah for rain for them. He stood up and invoked Allah for rain, then faced the Qibla and turned his cloak (inside out) and it rained.”


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 136:

Narrated Abbas bin Tamim

from his uncle who said, “The Prophet went out to invoke Allah for rain. He faced the Qibla invoking Allah. He turned over his cloak (inside out) and then offered two Rakat and recited the Quran aloud in them.”


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 137:

Narrated Abbas bin Tamim from his uncle,

“I saw the Prophet on the day when he went out to offer the Istisqa’ prayer. He turned his back towards the people and faced the Qibla and asked Allah for rain. Then he turned his cloak inside out and led us in a two Rakat prayer and recited the Qur’an aloud in them.”


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 138:

Narrated Abbas bin Tamlm from his uncle who said,

“The Prophet invoked Allah for rain and offered a two Rakat prayer and he put his cloak inside out.”


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 139:

Narrated Abbas bin Tamim from his uncle who said,

“The Prophet went out to the Musalla to offer the Istisqa’ prayer, faced the Qibla and offered a two-Rakat prayer and turned his cloak inside out.” Narrated Abu Bakr, “The Prophet put the right side of his cloak on his left side.”


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 140:

Narrated ‘Abdullah bin Zaid Al-Ansari:

The Prophet went out towards the Musalla in order to offer the Istisqa’ prayer and when he intended to invoke (Allah) or started invoking, he faced the Qibla and turned his cloak inside out.


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 141:

Narrated Anas bin Malik

The Prophet never raised his hands for any invocation except for that of Istisqa’ and he used to raise them so much that the whiteness of his armpits became visible. (Note: It may be that Anas did not see the Prophet raising his hands, but it is narrated that the Prophet used to raise his hands for invocations other than Istisqa. See Hadith No. 807 & 808 and also see Hadith No. 612, Vol. 5).


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 142:

Narrated Aisha:

Whenever Allah’s Apostle saw the rain, he used to say, “O Allah! Let it be a strong fruitful rain.”


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 143:

Narrated Anas bin Malik:

In the life-time of Allah’s Apostle (p.b.u.h) the people were afflicted with a (famine) year. While the Prophet was delivering the Khutba (sermon) on the pulpit on a Friday, a Bedouin stood up and said, “O Allah’s Apostle! The livestock are dying and the families (offspring) are hungry: please pray to Allah to bless us with rain.” Allah’s Apostle raised both his hands towards the sky and at that time there was not a trace of cloud in they sky. Then the clouds started gathering like mountains. Before he got down from the pulpit I saw rain-water trickling down his beard. It rained that day, the next day, the third day, the fourth day and till the next Friday, when the same Bedouin or some other person stood up (during the Friday Khutba) and said, “O Allah’s Apostle! The houses have collapsed and the livestock are drowned. Please invoke Allah for us.” So Allah’s Apostle raised both his hands and said, “O Allah! Around us and not on us.” Whichever side the Prophet directed his hand, the clouds dispersed from there till a hole (in the clouds) was formed over Medina. The valley of Qanat remained flowing (with water) for one month and none, came from outside who didn’t talk about the abundant rain.


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 144:

Narrated Anas:

Whenever a strong wind blew, anxiety appeared on the face of the Prophet (fearing that wind might be a sign of Allah’s wrath).


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 145:

Narrated Ibn Abbas:

The Prophet said, “I was granted victory with As-Saba and the nation of ‘Ad was destroyed by Ad-Dabur (westerly wind) .


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 146:

Narrated Abu Huraira:

The Prophet said, “The Hour (Last Day) will not be established until (religious) knowledge will be taken away (by the death of religious learned men), earthquakes will be very frequent, time will pass quickly, afflictions will appear, murders will increase and money will overflow amongst you.” (See Hadith No. 85 Vol 1).


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 147:

Narrated Ibn ‘Umar:

(The Prophet) said, “O Allah! Bless our Sham and our Yemen.” People said, “Our Najd as well.” The Prophet again said, “O Allah! Bless our Sham and Yemen.” They said again, “Our Najd as well.” On that the Prophet said, “There will appear earthquakes and afflictions, and from there will come out the side of the head of Satan.”


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 148:

Narrated Zaid bin Khalid Al-Juhani:

Allah’s Apostle led the morning prayer in Al-Hudaibiya and it had rained the previous night. When the Prophet (p.b.u.h) had finished the prayer he faced the people and said, “Do you know what your Lord has said?” They replied, “Allah and His Apostle know better.” (The Prophet said), “Allah says, ‘In this morning some of My worshipers remained as true believers and some became non-believers; he who said that it had rained with the blessing and mercy of Allah is the one who believes in Me and does not believe in star, but he who said it had rained because of such and such (star) is a disbeliever in Me and is a believer in star.’ ”


Volume 2, Book 17, Number 149:

Narrated Ibn ‘Umar:

Allah’s Apostle (p.b.u.h) said, “Keys of the unseen knowledge are five which nobody knows but Allah . . . nobody knows what will happen tomorrow; nobody knows what is in the womb; nobody knows what he will gain tomorrow; nobody knows at what place he will die; and nobody knows when it will rain.”


[ Index Page]

Ruling on adding ‘Sayyidinaa’ to the tashahhud – Shaykh Muhammad Amaan al Jaami (rahimahullaah)

The Thirteenth and Fourteenth Pillar:

“Allaahumma Salli ‘alaa Muhammadin wa ‘alaa Muhammadin kamaa Salayta ‘alaa ibraaheema wa ‘alaa Aali ibraaheema Innaka Hameedun Majeed” [O Allaah, send your praises upon Muhammad and the family of Muhammad as you sent praises upon Ibraaheem and the family of Ibraaheem. Verily, You are Most-Praiseworthy, Most Glorified]

This version of the tashahhud is well known. There are other forms of it as well.You may memorize whichever wording of the tashahhud that you like. However, choose one that is agreed upon. And if you hear someone using a tashahhud that varies from this one, do not condemn him.Tha same could be said about sending Salaat on the Prophet (Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam) if you have memorized the version mentioned here by the author. There are other ways of saying it as well. And we have stated many times that there exists many ways of doing it. Perhaps all of these ways (of sending salaat on the Prophet) have been gathered together by the great Scholar Ibn Al-Qavvim in his book which is unique in its subject: Jalaa-ul-Afhaam fis-Salaati ‘alaa Khair-il-Anaam.”

The Salaat mentioned here (i.e. above) is known as the Abrahamic Salaat. The most comprehensive form of it is the one that has been agreed upon, which is:

“Allaahumma Salli ‘alaa Muhammadin wa ‘alaa Aali Muhammad kamaa salaita ‘alaa Ibraaheema wa ‘alaa Aali Ibraaheem. Innaka Hameedun Majeed. Wa Baarik Muhammadin wa ‘alaa Aali Muhammad kamaa baarakta ‘alaa Ibraaheema wa ‘alaa Aali Ibraaheem. Innaka Hameedun Majeed.”

This manner of saying it is agreed upon. And there are many other ways. However you should take note that none of the versions of the Abrahamic Salaat that have been recorded by Ibn Al-Qayyim in his afore-mentioned book contain an mention of the word “Sayyidinaa” our master) such as: “Allaahumma Salli ‘alaa Sayyidinaa Muhammad.”

Many of our sensitive Muslim brothers, if you don’t say “Sayyidinaa” when sending Salaat and just say “Allaahumma Salli ‘alaa Muhammad” , will perhaps think bad thoughts about you and say: “This person doesn’t have any respect for Allaah’s Messenger!”

In fact, this very thing actually did happen, for one time a Moroccan man on Hajj told me: “0 Shaikh! I have attended your lessons from the first class till now while traveling. But I notice about you that when you send Salaat on the Prophet (Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam), you say ‘ Allaahumma Salli ‘alaa Muhammad’ and I never heard you once say: ‘ Allaahumma Salli ‘alaa Sayyidinaa Muhammad.’ Why is this O Shaikh?”

He asked a good question and I clarified the matter to him, thus reducing the irritation found in him since he would become very annoyed whenever he would hear someone send Salaat on the Prophet and not say: “Allaahumma Salli Sayyidinaa Muhammad.”

The Muslim common-folk do not make any distinction in matters. Perhaps they think that someone who leaves out the word “Sayyidinaa” does not respect the Prophet and does not love him in the manner that he deserves.

The reply: This is ignorance. It may even be called compound ignorance. Compound ignorance is when someone is ignorant and he doesn’t know that he is ignorant. If you don’t know that you don’t know something then this is ignorance on top of ignorance. So what is it that someone with ignorance attached to him knows? Nothing!

The point is that Muhammad, the Messenger of Allaah (Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam) is our leader (Sayyid). He is the leader of all of mankind – all of the descendants of Aadam. This is what I worship Allaah with. We must believe this, in accordance with what he has informed us: “I am the Sayyid (leader) of mankind on the Day of Judgement. I am the Sayyid (leader) of the children of Aadam, and I do not say this to boast” We are obligated to believe that he is the Sayyid (leader) of all of mankind.

But in spite of this, when he (Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam) taught the Companions how to send Salaat on him and when he dictated the Abrahamic Salaat to them during the revelation of the ayah:

“Verily Allaah and His Angels send Salaat (praises) on the Prophet. O you who believe, send your praises (Salaat) and greetings (Salaam) on him” [Surah Al-Ahzaab: 56]

When this ayah was revealed, the Companions asked: “0 Messenger of Allaah(Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam), you have already taught us how to send greetings (of Salaam) upon you, but we have been ordered to (also) send praises (Salaat) upon you, so how do we send Salaat on you?”

It is possible that this sort of questioning occurred in several different gatherings based on the fact that there are numerous manners of sending Salaat on the Prophet (Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam). The Prophet (Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam) taught his Companions to say it like this: “Allaahumma Salli ‘alaa Muhammad.” This does not mean that he (Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam) revoked his status of leadership and that he was no longer a Sayyid.

You have noted that at times the Prophet (Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam) would condemn people in certain circumstances who would make statements that were understood to contain exaggeration and extremism with regard to himself. He (Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam) would condemn the one who said: “You are our Sayyid (leader), son of our Sayyid. And you are the best among us, son of the best among us” even though he really is the Sayyid (leader) of mankind.

However, he did this because he feared that this man was being afflicted with extremism. Going to extremes with regard to the righteous people is one of the main causes of others being worshipped besides Allaah. So in order to protect the sanctuary of Tawheed, he told him no. He forbade him from (saying) that, saying: “I am only a slave, so say: ‘The slave and messenger of Alhall.'” This was even in spite of his prior statement in which he announced that he was the Sayyid (leader) of the children of Aadam. However, there is no contradiction between this statement and that statement since each situation warrants its own statement depending on its circumstances.

The situation in which the Prophet condemned the man was a situation that warranted such a condemnation and warning, whereas the situation in which he (Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam) announced he was the Sayyid (of mankind) was due to the fact that he was talking about his (Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam) intercession. So he was clarifying its reality the reality that he is the Sayyid (leader) of all of mankind.

The point we are trying to make here is: Sending Salaat on the Prophet should be done by using one of the versions that have been reported in the texts. You should not add the phrase Sayyidina (our leader) to it even though the Prophet is our Sayyid. I hope that this point is understood. Furthermore, after making this point clear, I would like to reiterate that we must believe and affirm, in accordance with his report, that the Prophet (Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam) is our Sayyid (leader). However, when sending Salaat upon him, we should not say: “Allaahumma Salli ‘alaa Sayyidinaa.” Rather we should just say: “Allaahumma Salli ‘alaa Muhammad” since this would be following his example, implementing his teachings, and carrying out his instructions.

This statement stuns some people, which is why I must say again that the scholars have unanimously agreed that it is not permissible for a Muslim who wants to worship Allaah through words of supplication that have been reported in the texts to add, subtract, change or replace any of those words.

The scholars of Hadeeth, with their intricate memory and understanding of the texts, use as evidence one single report, which others perhaps are not aware of the basis of proof found in it. This report is about the time when the Prophet taught one of his Companions the supplication one should make when going to bed. The supplication contains the following words:

“Aamantu bi-Kitaabik aladhee anzalta wa Nabee’ik aladhee arsalta.”
I believe in Your Book that You revealed and in Your Prophet that You sent.

This Companion began to repeat this supplication in order to memorize it, but then on one occasion, said: “…wa Rasoolik aladhee arsalta” , i.e. “…in Your Messenger that You sent.”

What did he do? He replaced the word “Nabee” (Prophet) with the word “Rasool” (Messenger). This Companion then narrated that: “The Prophet (Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam), tapped my chest and said: “No, say: Wa Nabee’ik aladhee arsalta.”

This is clear proof that it is not proper for a person who wishes to follow Allaah’s Messenger (Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam) and abide by his teachings to add, subtract, change or replace (these supplications) based on his own accord. The “Messenger” and “Prophet” are two valid titles for Prophet Muhammad. However, we cannot change the supplication from the manner in which it was reported since that is the way the Prophet (Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam) stated it.

The Prophet (Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam) does not speak from his own desire. So these were revealed to the Prophet (Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam) through revelation from Allaah. Meaning: The legislation of these words of remembrance that are to be said at the time of sleeping came down from the heavrns. So if something was revealed to the Prophet(Sallallaahu alaihi wa Sallam) and he conveyed it to his, Companions in the same manner in which it was sent down, it would not be proper for the Companions to change that. And we should follow their example, and Allaah knows best.

Taken from the Book “An Explanation of ‘The Conditions, Pillars and Requirements of Prayer” Published by al-ibaanah – Explained by Shaykh Muhammad Amaan al Jaami (rahimahullaah) . You are encouraged to buy this Beautiful Book.

Beautiful Explanation of the Opening Supplication in Salah (Prayer) – Shaykh Muhammad Amaan al Jaami (rahimahullaah)

After this, there occurs the opening supplication, which is optional, and states: “Subhaanak Allaahumma wa bi Hamdika. Wa Tabaarakasmuka wa Ta’aala Jadduka. Wa Laa ilaaha Ghayruka.” [Free from imperfections are You, O Allaah, and all praise is Yours. Blessed is Your Name, Glorified be Your Greatness, and there is no deity worthy of worship besides You]

The meaning of “Subhaanak Allaahumma” is: I absolve You from all imperfections in a manner that befits Your majesty. “Wa bi-Hamdika” i.e. while praising You. “Wa Tabaarakasmuka” i.e. blessing can be attained by mentioning You. “Wa Ta’aala Jadduka” i.e. Glorified be Your Greatness. “Wa Laa ilaaha Ghayruka” i.e. There is nothing that has the right to be worshipped on earth or in heaven except You, O Allaah.

~ the explanation ~

The author, may Allaah have mercy on him, states here that the opening supplication is a recommended act. It is neither a pillar nor a requirement nor a condition. Rather it is supererogatory. He then went on to choose one version of the opening supplication, which is the shortest, amplest, and most comprehensive of these supplications from the perspective of praise, veneration and glorification of Allaah. And it is: “Subhaanak Allaahumma wa hi Hamdika. Wa Tabaarakasmuka wa Ta’aala Jadduka. Wa Laa Ilaaha Ghayruka.”

The great scholar Ibn Al-Qayyim listed a number of opening supplications in his book Zaad al-Ma’aad. But he preferred this supplication over the numerous other ones of this nature, some of which are longer. This is due to the fact that this concise supplication contains such praise, veneration and glorification for Allaah the likes of which cannot be found in other supplications. Other supplications consist more of requests and invocations whereas this one consists of (purely) glorification, honoring and exaltation (of Allaah).

The author then takes it upon himself to explain this supplication as well as what comes after it. The meaning of: “Subhaanak Allaahumma” is: “I absolve You, O Lord, in a manner that befits You, from all imperfections.”  This is an absolving that befits His majesty, and it is derived from the Qur’aan and the Sunnah.

The people are divided in their definitions of absolving Allaah from imperfections. Some people have defined it as negating Allaah’s Attributes, which is why the Jahmiyyah and Mu’tazilah have negated all of Allaah’s Attributes, claiming that they are removing imperfections from Allaah. The reason for this (according to them) is because if one affirms Attributes for Allaah, this leads to likening Allaah to His creation. So, according to them, freeing Allaah from imperfections can only be achieved by negating His Attributes.

The Ashaa’irah and the Matooridiyyah did the same with respect to the textual Attributes. The textual Attributes are those attributes for which the intellect plays no part in affirming. They are only affirmed by way of narrations and textual proofs. According to the understanding of the Ashaa’irah, affirming these attributes literally goes against removing imperfections from Allaah. So as a result they resorted to taweel (misinterpretation). They did not negate the Attributes as others did. Rather, they claimed that what was literally stated in these texts was not what Allaah intended. So therefore, interpreting them them with other than their literal meanings is binding based on the claim of removing imperfections from Allah.

You will notice that everyone who negates or distorts the meaning of Allaah’s Attributes claims to be removing imperfections from Allaah by what they do. When the first group negated Allaah’s Attributes, they did not intend disrespect for Allaah. Rather, according to their claim, they only intended to remove imperfections from Him. But where is this removal of imperfections? They went astray in this regard. Why did they go astray? Because they looked for guidance in other than Allaah’s Book. Whoever searches for guidance in other than the Book of Allaah and in other than what the Messenger brought, will no doubt go astray. This is a principle. Whoever looks for guidance and truth in other than what the Messenger of Allaah came with will be misguided as recompense for turning away (from the Qur’aan and the Sunnah). This is since guidance, correctness and truth is restricted to only that which the Messenger of Allaah (peace be upon him) brought.

If we want to know the true manner of removing Allaah, from imperfections in a manner that befits His majesty, we should read Allaah’s statement: “There is nothing like Him (in comparison), and He is the All Hearer, the All-Seer.” [Surah Ash-Shooraa: 11]

Is there a greater example of removing imperfections from Allaah than this? Allaah affirms Attributes for Himself but negates any comparisons in those Attributes that He has affirmed. This is what is meant by tanzeeh (removing imperfections from Allaah). It is that you affirm for Him what He has affirmed for Himself from complete Attributes, perfect Names and flawless Actions.

Affirm for Him what He has affirmed for Himself. Then negate any comparisons to what He has affirmed (for Himself) since no one can describe Allaah who is more knowledgeable than Him. Also affirm for what His trusted Messenger has described Him with and negate my comparisons to what he (peace be upon him) has affirmed, since no one can describe Allaah from His creation who is more knowledgeable than Allaah’s Messenger (peace be upon him).

This is how Allaah has guided the people of truth and the callers to truth. So they know how to remove imperfections from Allaah without negating His Attributes, distorting their meaning, making comparisons to them or likening them to His creation. This is the point the author is trying to make when he says: “I absolve You from all imperfections, my Lord, in a manner that befits You.” This is the type of removing of imperfections from Allaah that befits His majesty, which has been derived from the Qur’an and the Sunnah.

“Wa bi-Hamdika” means: “while praising You.” So this consists of removing imperfections from Allaah while at the same time praising Him. But on the other hand, if you have negated Allaah’s Perfect Attributes, how can you then praise Him?! If you have negated the Attribute of Mercy from Allaah, how can you praise Him? You say that it is impossible for Allaah to have Mercy and that Love is something impossible for Allaah. He is neither loved nor does He love. How then can you praise him when you negate Mercy from Him?

You heard previously the qudsee hadeeth about Al-Faatihah in which it is stated: “And when the servant says: Ar-Rahmaan-ir-Raheem‘, Allaah says: ‘My servant has extolled Me.” As for the one who negates the Attribute of Mercy from Allaah, it is not possible for Him to praise Allaah, since praising Allaah can only be achieved through His exemplary Names, Attributes, and Actions.

“Wa Tabaarakusmuka” means: Blessing is achieved by mentioning You. Your Name is removed from any imperfections and blessing is achieved through mention of Your Name. This is how the author (Muhammad bin Abdil-Wahhaab) has explained it.

“Wa Ta’aala jadduka” means: Glorified be Your greatness grandness. The word “jadd” here takes on the meaning of grandness and self sufficiency. So it means: “Glorified be Your Grandness and self-sufficiency.”

This means that: “No one on earth or in heaven is worshipped with due right except for You, O Allaah.” The phrase “with due right” must be mentioned when explaining the meaning of “Laa Ilaaha illaaAllaah”. You must include “due right” or “rightfully” or else the meaning will be wrong. If you were to say: “There is no one worshipped in the heavens or on the earth except for You” we would be contradicting reality since those who are worshipped are many. But the one who is worshipped after all others have been negated is the One who is worshipped in truth or with “due right.”

There is no one worshipped on earth or in heaven with due right except for You. As for those who are worshipped in the heavens and the earth, the worship of them is futile and invalid. The sun and the moon are worshipped but worshiping them is invalid. Trees are worshipped. Many of the large trees with many branches (known as dawhaat) are still worshipped today. This goes also for stones, tombs and shrines. The worship of these things is futile.

This also applies to the worship of Jinn and the worship of graves. Every time something is worshipped, it becomes known as a “god” according to the language. It is not called Allaah, but rather a “false” god. The term “god” is general and encompasses the One who is worshipped with due right as well as those that are worshipped wrongfully. The word “Allaah” is specifically reserved for the One who is worshipped with due right – the Creator of the heavens and the earth. There is no one worshipped in the heavens or the earth (with due right) except for you, O Allaah.

Taken from the Book “An Explanation of ‘The Conditions, Pillars and Requirements of Prayer” Published by al-ibaanah – Explained by Shaykh Muhammad Amaan al Jaami (rahimahullaah) . You are encouraged to buy this Beautiful Book.

Being Pleased With Allaah, His Messenger & His Deen : Shaykhul Islaam Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah

By Shaykhul –Islaam Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah as-Salafi -Rahimullaah-
Translated & Compiled  by Abbas Abu Yahya

Ibn Qayyim aj-Jawzeeyah (d.751 A.H.) -Rahimullaah- said:

‘The Prophet – sallAllaahu alayhi wasallam –said:

ذَاقَ طَعْمَ الإيمانِ : مَنْ رَضِيَ بالله ربًّا، وبالإسلام دينًا، وبمحمَّدٍ رَسُولاً

‘The sweetness of Eemaan has been tasted by he, whomever is pleased with Allaah as a Lord, Islaam as a religion and Muhammad as a Messenger.’

[Collected by Muslim]

The Prophet – sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam –said:

مَنْ قَالَ حِيْنَ يَسْمَعُ النِّدَاءَ رَضِيتُ بِاللَّهِ رَبًّا، وَبِمُحَمَّدٍ رَسُولاً، وَبِالإِسْلاَمِ دِينًا. غُفِرَ لَهُ ذَنْبُهُ

‘Whoever says, when he hears the call to prayer, I am pleased with Allaah as a Lord, Muhammad as a Messenger and Islaam as a religion, then his sin will be forgiven.’

[Collected by Muslim]

The levels of the religion revolve around these two Ahadeeth and they end with these.

Indeed these two Ahadeeth include being pleased with the Ruboobeeyah (Lordship) of Allaah Subhanahu, and His Ulooheeyah (worshipping Him), being pleased with His Messenger and having obedience to him, and being pleased with Allaah’s religion and having submission to it.

Whoever has these four aspects combined, then he truly is a Siddeeq (truthful) person. It is an easy claim and statement to say, but it is from the most difficult matters in reality and in being tested, especially if what occurs opposes the desires of the soul and the intent of that becomes clear that being pleased was stated with just the tongue, so it was upon the tongue and not with ones actions.

Therefore, being pleased with Allaah’s Ieelaheeya (meaning the One who is worshipped):

includes being pleased with loving Him alone, being fearful of Him, having hope in Him, and turning repentantly to Him, and having devotion for Him,  andstrength of intention and having all love for Him,  the person being pleased does everything to please his beloved, and this includes His worship and having sincerity for Allaah.

Being pleased with His Ruboobeeyah (Lordship):

This includes being pleased with what Allaah has planned and disposed for His slave. Being pleased with Allaah’s Ruboobeeyah also includes singling Allaah out alone for having trust and reliance upon Him, and seeking assistance with Him, trusting Him, having reliance upon Him, and that a person is pleased with everything that Allaah does to him.

The first: includes being pleased with what He commands.

The second: includes being pleased with what He destined for him.

There are many people who are pleased with Allaah as a Lord and they do not desire any other Lord except Him, however, they are not pleased with Him with being the only Wali (Guardian) and being the only Helper. But they have loyalty to Awaliyah other than Allaah, thinking that they are bringing you closer to Allaah, and that being loyal to them is like being loyal to those who are close to the king, and this is specific Shirk.

Indeed Tawheed is that a person does not take any one other than Allaah as an Awaliyah, and the Qur’aan is full of the description of the Mushrikeen that they took Awaliyah other than Allaah.

This is not the loyalty that one has for Allaah’s Prophets, His Messengers and His believing slaves, since this is from the completion of Eemaan to have loyalty to His Prophets, and this is in fact complete loyalty for Allaah.

Therefore, having loyalty for His Awaliyah is one colour and taking a Wali other than Allaah is a different colour. Whoever has not understood the distinction and criterion between them, then he must study Tawheed from its foundation, since this issue is a foundation of Tawheed and its base principle.

There are many people who desire to take someone other than Allaah as a judge to whom they can take their judgements to.

With whom they could debate, and be pleased with his judgement.

These three levels are the pillars of Tawheed; that none other than Allah is taken as a Lord, or as a deity and none other than Him has a command.

Being pleased with His Prophet:

As for being pleased with His Prophet as a Messenger: then this includes having prefect obedience to him, and complete submission to him, whereby the Prophet –sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam– is foremost to a person than his own self.  So he does not take guidance except from the places of the Messenger’s speech,  he does not turn for a judgement except to him, and no one gives a judgement above his,  and he totally is not pleased with someone else’s judgement, not in anything from the Asmaa (Names) of Allaah and His characteristics and His actions, nor in anything from the perception and sense of the reality of al Eemaan and its different  levels,  nor in anything from the Ahkam (rulings) apparent and hidden, and a person is not pleased with a ruling regarding these things from someone other than the Messenger, and he is not pleased except with his ruling.

If however a person is incapable of following the Messenger’s judgement, then him having someone else’s judgement then this is from the view of forceful nourishment for a person who cannot find that which would sustain himself with except from dead flesh and blood.  The best that can be said about this situation is that it is like using dust, which is used for Tayummum (dry ablution) when a person is incapable of using water for purification.

Being pleased with His Deen (Religion):

As for being pleased with the Deen, so if the Deen says something or gives a ruling or commands or prohibits then a person should be completely pleased with it. There does not remain any opposition and resistance in his heart from its ruling, and he submits to it with total submission.  Even if it opposes what his own self intends, or his desires, or the statement of the one whom he blindly follows, or his Shaykh or his sect, this is where all the people desert you except the Ghuraba (those who adhere to the Sunnah) in this world.

Beware of feeling distressed and lonely of being isolated and alone [i.e. Since the people abandon you for holding on to the Sunnah, being from the Ghuraba.]  since indeed it is -and I swear by Allaah- the distinction of honour and companionship with Allaah and His Messenger and it is the soul of being close to Allaah.  And being pleased with Allaah as a Lord, Muhammad as a Messenger and Islaam as a religion.

[From: ‘Madarij as-Salikeen’ 2/170-172]

The Different Wordings of the Hadeeth

1 – From Abu Sa’eed al-Khudri saying that the Messenger of Allaah – sallAllaahualayhiwasallam– said:

(مَنْ قَالَ: رَضِيتُ بِاللَّهِ رَبًّا وَبِالْإِسْلَامِ دِينًا وَبِمُحَمَّدٍ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ نَبِيًّا وَجَبَتْ لَهُ الْجَنَّةُ)

‘Whoever says: ‘I am pleased with Allaah as the Lord, Islaam as the Religion and with Muhammad as the Prophet, then Paradise becomes obligatory for him.’

[Collected in SilsilahSaheehah 334 &Saheeh Abu Dawood 1368]

2 – From Aamir bin Sa’ad bin Abee Waqas from his father from the Messenger of Allaah – sallAllaahualayhiwasallam –that he said:

(مَنْ قَالَ حِينَ يَسْمَعُ الْمُؤَذِّنَ: وَأَنَا أَشْهَدُ أَنْ لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ وَأَشْهَدُ أَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا عَبْدُهُ وَرَسُولُهُ رَضِيتُ بِاللَّهِ رَبًّا وَبِالْإِسْلَامِ دِينًا وَبِمُحَمَّدٍ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ رَسُولًا غُفِرَ لَهُ مَا تَقَدَّمَ مِنْ ذَنْبِهِ)

‘Whoever says when he hears the Mu’adhin (the caller to the prayer): Wa Ana Ashhaduanala  ilaha ‘illa Allaah wahdahu la shareekalahu wa Ashhaduanna Muhammadan Abduhu wa Rasooluhu Radeetu Billaahi Rabban wa BilIslaami Deenan wa Bi Muhammad sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam Rasoolan.’

(I testify that there is none worthy of worship in truth except Allaah Alone and He has no partners and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger, I am pleased with Allaah as the Lord, with Islaam as the Religion and with Muhammad as the Messenger’) Then his previous sins are forgiven.’

[Collected in Saheeh Abu Dawood 537]

3 – From al-Munaydhir a Companion of the Messenger of Allaah – sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- and he used to be in Africa who said: I heard the Messenger of Allaah – sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam – say:

من قال إذا أصبح :” رضيت بالله ربا و بالإسلام دينا و بمحمد نبيا “،فأناالزعيم لآخذن بيده حتى أدخله الجنة

‘Whoever says in the morning: ‘I am pleased with Allaah as the Lord, Islaam as the Religion and with Muhammad as the Prophet,’ then I am a guarantor that I will indeed definitely take him by his hand until I can enter him in to Paradise.’

[Collected in At-Targheeb by al-Mundhari, Tabarani & Albaani in Silsilah Saheehah 2686 and he said the Hadeeth is Thaabit (Established)]

Al-Ayni said in his explanation of Abu Dawood:

Regarding the Messenger’s saying: ‘I am pleased with Allaah as the Lord’ means: I am convinced by Him, He is sufficient for me, and I do not require anyone along with Him.

Regarding the Messenger’s saying:  ‘and with Muhammad as the Prophet,’ means: that I am content with Muhammad as a Messenger to me and to all the other Muslims.

Regarding the Messenger’s saying:  ‘Islaam as the Religion’ means: I am content with Islaam as a religion, meaning I do not desire another way other than Islaam, and I do not follow except that which is in agreement with the Sharia’ of Muhammad – alayhi as-Salaam- or that I do not desire other than Islaam as a Deen.’

[SharhAbeeDawood by al-Ayani 2/484]

Al-Ayni continues in his explanation:

If it is said what is the intent of the saying: ‘as a Deen’, I say: the meaning of Deen here is Tawheed; … . . as in the saying of Allaah Ta’ala:

ومَنيَبتَغ غَيرَ الإِسلاَم دينا

<< And whoever seeks a religion other than Islaam>>[Ala-Imran: 85]

Means: Tawheed.

As for the authentic hadeeth from Umar who said: ‘While we were with the Messenger of Allaah that day, all of a sudden a man came to visit whose clothing was exceedingly white…..’ to the end of the hadeeth. So here the Messenger of Allaah generalized the ‘Deen’ upon ‘Islaam, Eemaan (faith) and Ihsaan (perfection of worship)’  due to his saying: Indeed that was Jibraeel who came to you to teach you your Deen.’ He taught them these three things.

Therefore, sometimes the Deen is stated for the three things which Jibraeel – Alayhi as-Salaam – inquired about, and sometimes it is stated for Islaam as is in the saying of Allaah Tala’a:

اليَومَ أكمَلتُ لَكُم دينَكُم وَأتمَمتُ عَلَيكم نعمَتيوَرَضيتُ لَكُمُ الإسلاَمَ دينا

<< This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islaam as your religion.>>[al-Maidah: 3]

[From: ‘SharhAbeeDawood’ by al-Ayani 2/486-7]

Saying it three times is not Authentic

Da’eefFrom Abee Salaam the servant of the Prophet – sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- from the Prophet – sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- that he said:

‘There is no Muslim or human or slave who says when the morning comes and when the evening approaches, three times: ‘I am pleased with Allaah as the Lord, Islaam as the Religion and with Muhammad as the Prophet, except that it is a right upon Allaah that he will please him on the Day of Judgement.’

[Collected by Ibn Abee Shaybah in ‘al-Musannaf’ and in ‘al-Musnad’ & Albaani declared it Da’eef in Silsilah Ahadeeth ad-Da’eefah no. 5020]

And in another wording:

Da’eef‘who says when the morning comes and when the evening approaches, three times: ‘I am pleased with Allaah as the Lord, Islaam as the Religion and with Muhammad as the Prophet.’ except that it is a right upon Allaah that he will please him.’

[Albaani declared it Da’eef in ‘Da’eef al-Jamia’ as-Sagheer’ No. 5734]

All Praise belongs to Allaah, may His peace and blessings be upon our final Prophet Muhammad, his family, his companions and all those who follow his guidance

The Dua of Light : Sahih Muslim

[ This hadith was transmitted by Sahih Muslim]

Ibn ‘Abbâs reports that he once stayed the night as a guest of Maymûna, who was his aunt, and the Prophet, may Allâh bless him and grant him peace. They slept on their blanket lengthways, and he slept at the end, crossways. After they had all slept for a while, the Prophet rose in the middle of the night to pray the tahajjud prayer, and Ibn ‘Abbas joined him.

They both did wudû’, and he prayed eleven rak’ats with the Prophet. Then they both went back to sleep again until dawn. Bilâl called the adhân and the Prophet did another two short rak’ats, before going into the mosque to lead the Dawn Prayer.

Ibn ‘Abbâs said that one of the du’âs that the Prophet made during this night was:

“O Allâh, place light in my heart, light in my tongue, light in my hearing, light in my sight, light behind me, light in front of me, light on my right, light on my left, light above me and light below me; place light in my sinew, in my flesh, in my blood, in my hair and in my skin; place light in my soul and make light abundant for me; make me light and grant me light.”

( وَعَنْ ابْنِ عَبَّاسٍ { أَنَّ النَّبِيَّ صلى الله عليه وسلم صَلَّى فَجَعَلَ يَقُولُ فِي صَلَاتِهِ أَوْ فِي سُجُودِهِ :

اللَّهُمَّ اجْعَلْ فِي قَلْبِي نُورًا , وَفِي سَمْعِي نُورًا , وَفِي بَصَرِي نُورًا , وَعَنْ يَمِينِي نُورًا , وَعَنْ شِمَالِي نُورًا , وَأَمَامِي نُورًا , وَخَلْفِي نُورًا , وَفَوْقِي نُورًا , وَتَحْتِي نُورًا , وَاجْعَلْ لِي نُورًا أَوْ قَالَ : وَاجْعَلْنِي نُورًا } . مُخْتَصَرٌ مِنْ مُسْلِمٍ )

This hadith was transmitted by Muslim and others.

Excellence of Supplications at Al-Multazim

Iltizaam Between The Corner And The Door ( from Rites of Hajj and Umrah – by Shaik Nasiruddin Albanee )

38. And he may cling to the place between the corner and the Door – placing his chest and face and forearms upon this place.(45)

This is narrated by two isnaads from the Prophet by which the hadith reaches the level of hasan – and is increased in strength by the fact that a group of the Sahaabah acted on it – from them Ibn ‘Abbaas – may Allaah be pleased with him – who said: “This is the Multazam between the Corner and the Door. And it is authentically narrated from ‘Urwah ibn az-Zubair also – see ‘As-Sahaabah, no.2138.

And Ibn Taimiyyah said in his ‘Mansak’ (p.387): “And if he wishes to come to the Multazam – and that is what is between the Black stone and the Door – and he places upon it his chest and face and forearms and hands – and makes du’aa – and he asks Allaah for whatever he needs – then he may do so. And he may do so before the Farewell Tawaaf there being no difference in this being at that time or any other – and the Sahaabah used to do so when they entered Makkah – and if he stands near the Door making du’aa without iltizaam of the House then that is also good, and when he leaves he does not stand or turn or walk backwards.”

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen (may Allaah have mercy on him) said:

This is a matter concerning which the scholars differed, although it was not narrated from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) (i.e. that was not narrated in a saheeh hadeeth, as the ahaadeeth that were narrated concerning this were deemed to be da’eef or weak). Rather it was narrated from some of the Sahaabah (may Allaah be pleased with them). So is iltizaam (clinging) Sunnah? When should it be done – upon arrival or when about to leave, or at any time?

The reason for this difference of opinion among the scholars is that it is not narrated in the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), rather the Sahaabah (may Allaah be pleased with them) used to do that when they arrived in Makkah.

The fuqaha’ said: He (the pilgrim) should do that when about to leave, and should cling to the multazam, which is the area between the corner where the Black Stone is located and the door…

Based on this, there is nothing wrong with iltizaam (clinging to the Ka’bah in this area) so long as that does not involve annoying others.

Al-Sharh al-Mumti’, 7/402, 403.

Reflections – Al-Istiqaamah Magazine

Al-Istiqaamah Magazine , Issue No.6 – Dhul-Qa’dah 1417H / March 1997

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

‘Abdullaah ibn Mas’ood radiallaahu ‘anhu relates that the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam would supplicate: “O Allaah! I ask You for guidance, piety, safety and well-being, and contentment and sufficiency.” [Allaahumma innee as’alukal-hudaa wat-tuqaa wal-‘afaafa wal-ghinaa].1

Imaam as-Sa’dee (d.1376H) – rahimahullaah – said:

This du’aa (supplication) is from the most comprehensive and beneficial du’aas (supplications), since it includes asking Allaah for well-being with regards to both the Religion and the world. Thus, al-hudaa (the guidance) is beneficial knowledge, and at-tuqaa (i.e. taqwaa or piety) is righteous actions and leaving-off what Allaah and His Messenger have forbidden; and this is (asking) for correctness and well-being of a person’s Religion. For indeed, the Religion comprises of beneficial knowledge and recognising the truth – which is guidance – and standing firm upon obedience to Allaah and His Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam – and this is piety.

And al-‘afaafa (well-being and safety) and al-ghinaa (contentment and sufficiency) comprises of being safe from (the harms of) the creation and that the heart is not attached to them. And it also comprises of being contented with Allaah and what He provides, and seeking whatever will cause the heart to be satisfied with Him. So with this, happiness in this worldly life is completed, and the heart tastes true sweetness and delight – and this is a goodly life. So whosoever is granted the provisions of guidance, Piety. well-being and contentment has indeed achieved true happiness, and has acquired all that could be possibly sought after, as well as being saved from all that is dreadful and frightening.”2

KNOWLEDGE AND HUMILITY

Imaam adh-Dhahabee (d.748H) – rahimahullaah – said:

“Whosoever seeks knowledge for actions, then his knowledge makes him humble and fearful, and causes him to weep at (the deficiencies in) himself. But whosoever seeks knowledge for the sake of merely teaching, giving verdicts, in order to brag, or to show-off; becomes foolish, arrogant and looks down in contempt at the people, and is destroyed by pride, and the people hate him. “Truly he succeeds who purifies his soul, and he fails who corrupts it.” [Soorah ash-Shams 99:4-5]. Meaning that it is corrupted with sin and disobedience.”3

REMEMBERING THE GUIDANCE

Al-Qaadee ‘Iyaadh (d.591H) – rahimahullaah – relates: “Mu’sab ibn ‘Abdullaah said:

When Imaam Maalik (d.179H) would mention the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, his colour would change and he would have to lean down, and those in his gathering would feel disturbed. So one day, on being asked about this, he said: If you had seen what I have seen, you would not have rejected what you had seen. I have seen Muhammad ibn al-Munkadir (d.130H) – and he was the leader of the Reciters – that he would never be asked about a hadeeth (Prophetic narration), except that he would weep, until we had mercy upon him. And I have seen Ja’far ibn Muhammad (d.148H) who used to smile alot. Yet whenever the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was mentioned to him, he would turn pale. I have never seen him narrating the hadeeth of the Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, except in a state of purification. And when times deteriorated, I never saw him except in one of three conditions: Either Praying, observing silence, or reciting the Qur’aan. He never uttered a word having no significance, and he was one of the Scholars and worshippers who had great fear of Allaah. Whenever ‘Abdur-Rahmaan ibn al-Qaasim (d.126H) mentioned the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, he turned pale, as if the blood had been drained from his face, and his tongue dried-up due to reverence for Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. I went to ‘Aamir ibn ‘Abdullaah ibn az-Zubayr (d.123H), and whenever the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was mentioned to him, he would weep so much, until he was unable to weep any longer. I saw az-Zuhree (d.124H) – and he was from the kindest of people, and closest to them – that when the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam was mentioned to him, he would not be able to recognise you, nor would you be able to recognise him. I came to Safwaan ibn Sulaym (d.132H) – and he was one of the mujtahid Scholars and worshippers – that whenever he mentioned the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam he would weep, and he would not stop weeping, to the extent that the people would have to get up and leave him.”4

And it is from the likes of such weeping souls that we have inherited the knowledge of our Religion!


1. Related by Muslim (no.2721).
2. Bahjatul-Quloobul-Abraar (p.198).
3. Siyar A’laamun-Nubulaa (18/192).
4. Related by Ibn Taymiyyah in Kitaabul-Waseelah (p.92)

Isti’adhah : Seeking Refuge with Allah : Tafsir Ibn Kathir

Tafseer Ibn Kathir – Surah Fatihah

[1] Why the Devil is called Shaytan ?

In the Arabic language, Shaytan is derived from Shatana, which means the far thing. Hence, the Shaytan has a different nature than mankind, and his sinful ways are far away from every type of righteousness. It was also said that Shaytan is derived from Shata, (literally `burned’), because it was created from fire. Some scholars said that both meanings are correct, although they state that the first meaning is more plausible. Further, Siybawayh (the renowned Arab linguistic) said, “The Arabs say, `So-and-so has Tashaytan,’ when he commits the act of the devils. If Shaytan was derived from Shata, they would have said, Tashayyata (rather than Tashaytan).” Hence, Shaytan is derived from the word that means, far away. This is why they call those who are rebellious (or mischievous) from among the Jinns and mankind a `Shaytan’. Allah said,

(And so We have appointed for every Prophet enemies ـ Shayatin (devils) among mankind and Jinn, inspiring one another with adorned speech as a delusion (or by way of deception)) (6:112).

In addition, the Musnad by Imam Ahmad records that Abu Dharr said that the Messenger of Allah said,

(O Abu Dharr! Seek refuge with Allah from the devils of mankind and the Jinns.) Abu Dharr said, “I asked him , `Are there human devils’ He said, (Yes.)” Furthermore, it is recorded in Sahih Muslim that Abu Dharr said that the Messenger of Allah said,

(The woman, the donkey and the black dog interrupt the prayer (if they pass in front of those who do not pray behind a Sutrah, i.e. a barrier).) Abu Dharr said, “I said, `What is the difference between the black dog and the red or yellow dog’ He said,

(The black dog is a devil.).”

Also, Ibn Jarir At-Tabari recorded that `Umar bin Al-Khattab once rode a Berthawn (huge camel) which started to proceed arrogantly. `Umar kept striking the animal, but the animal kept walking in an arrogant manner. `Umar dismounted the animal and said, “By Allah! You have carried me on a Shaytan. I did not come down from it until after I had felt something strange in my heart.” This Hadith has an authentic chain of narrators.

[2] What does Isti`adhah mean

Isti`adhah means, “I seek refuge with Allah from the cursed Satan so that he is prevented from affecting my religious or worldly affairs, or hindering me from adhering to what I was commanded, or luring me into what I was prohibited from.” Indeed, only Allah is able to prevent the evil of Satan from touching the son of Adam. This is why Allah allowed us to be lenient and kind with the human devil, so that his soft nature might cause him to refrain from the evil he is indulging in. However, Allah required us to seek refuge with Him from the evil of Satan, because he neither accepts bribes nor does kindness affect him, for he is pure evil. Thus, only He Who created Satan is able to stop his evil. This meaning is reiterated in only three Ayat in the Qur’an. Allah said in Surat Al-A`raf,

(Show forgiveness, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the foolish (i.e. don’t punish them).) (7:199)

This is about dealing with human beings. He then said in the same Surah,

(And if an evil whisper comes to you from Shaytan, then seek refuge with Allah. Verily, He is Hearing, Knowing (7: 200).)

Allah also said in Surat Al-Mu’minun,

(Repel evil with that which is better. We are Best-Acquainted with the things they utter. And say: “My Lord! I seek refuge with You from the whisperings (suggestions) of the Shayatin (devils). And I seek refuge with You, My Lord! lest they should come near me.” (23:96-98).)

Further, Allah said in Surat As-Sajdah,

(The good deed and the evil deed cannot be equal. Repel (the evil) with one which is better, then verily he, between whom and you there was enmity, (will become) as though he was a close friend. But none is granted it (the above quality) except those who are patient ـ and none is granted it except the owner of the great portion (of happiness in the Hereafter, i.e. Paradise and of a high moral character) in this world. And if an evil whisper from Shaytan tries to turn you away (from doing good), then seek refuge in Allah. Verily, He is the Hearing, the Knowing) (41:34-36).

[3] The Tafsir of Isti`adhah (seeking Refuge)

Allah said,

(Show forgiveness, enjoin what is good, and stay away from the foolish (i.e. don’t punish them). And if an evil whisper comes to you from Shaytan (Satan), then seek refuge with Allah. Verily, He is Hearing, Knowing) (7:199-200),

(Repel evil with that which is better. We are Best-Acquainted with things they utter. And say: “My Lord! I seek refuge with You from the whisperings (suggestions) of the Shayatin (devils). And I seek refuge with You, My Lord! lest they should come near me.”) (23:96-98) and,

(Repel (an evil) with one which is better, then verily he with whom there was enmity between you, (will become) as though he was a close friend. But none is granted it except those who are patient ـ and none is granted it except the owner of the great portion (of happiness in the Hereafter, i.e. Paradise and of a high moral character) in this world. And if an evil whisper from Shaytan tries to turn you away (O Muhammad ) (from doing good), then seek refuge in Allah. Verily, He is the Hearing, the Knowing.) (41:34-36) These are the only three Ayat that carry this meaning. Allah commanded that we be lenient human enemy, so that his soft nature might make him an ally and a supporter. He also commanded that we seek refuge from the satanic enemy, because the devil does not relent in his enmity if we treat him with kindness and leniency. The devil only seeks the destruction of the Son of Adam due to the vicious enmity and hatred he has always had towards man’s father, Adam. Allah said,

(O Children of Adam! Let not Shaytan deceive you, as he got your parents ﴿Adam and Hawwa’ (Eve)﴾ out of Paradise) (7:27),

(Surely, Shaytan is an enemy to you, so take (treat) him as an enemy. He only invites his Hizb (followers) that they may become the dwellers of the blazing Fire) (35:6) and,

(Will you then take him (Iblis) and his offspring as protectors and helpers rather than Me while they are enemies to you What an evil is the exchange for the Zalimun (polytheists, and wrongdoers, etc)) (18:50).

The devil assured Adam that he wanted to advise him, but he was lying. Hence, how would he treat us after he had vowed,

(“By Your might, then I will surely, mislead them all. Except Your chosen servants among them (i.e. faithful, obedient, true believers of Islamic Monotheism).”) (38:82-83)

Also, Allah said,

(So when you ﴿want to﴾ recite the Qur’an, seek refuge with Allah from Shaytan, the outcast (the cursed one). Verily, he has no power over those who believe and put their trust only in their Lord (Allah). His power is only over those who obey and follow him (Satan), and those who join partners with Him.) (16:98-100).

[4] The Meaning of Ar-Rajim

Ar-Rajim means, being expelled from all types of righteousness. Allah said,

(And indeed We have adorned the nearest heaven with lamps, and We have made such lamps Rujuman (as missiles) to drive away the Shayatin (devils)) (67:5).

Allah also said,

(Verily, We have adorned the near heaven with the stars (for beauty). And to guard against every rebellious devil. They cannot listen to the higher group (angels) for they are pelted from every side. Outcast, and theirs is a constant (or painful) torment. Except such as snatch away something by stealing, and they are pursued by a flaming fire of piercing brightness) (37:6-10).

Further, Allah said,

(And indeed, We have put the big stars in the heaven and We beautified it for the beholders. And We have guarded it (near heaven) from every Shaytan Rajim (outcast Shaytan). Except him (devil) who steals the hearing then he is pursued by a clear flaming fire.) (15:16-18).

There are several similar Ayat. It was also said that Rajim means, the person who throws or bombards things, because the devil throws doubts and evil thoughts in people’s hearts. The first meaning is more popular and accurate.

[5] Virtues of the Isti`adhah

The Isti`adhah cleanses the mouth from the foul speech that it has indulged in. It also purifies the mouth and prepares it to recite the speech of Allah. Further, the Isti`adhah entails seeking Allah’s help and acknowledging His ability to do everything. The Isti`adhah also affirms the servant’s meekness, weakness and inability to face the enemy of his inner evil, whom Allah alone, Who created this enemy, is able to repel and defeat. This enemy does not accept kindness, unlike the human enemy. There are three Ayat in the Qur’an that affirm this fact. Also, Allah said,

(Verily, My servants (i.e. the true believers of Islamic Monotheism) ـ you have no authority over them. And sufficient is your Lord as a Guardian.) (17:65).

We should state here that the believers, whom the human enemies kill, become martyrs, while those who fall victim to the inner enemy – Satan – become bandits. Further, the believers who are defeated by the apparent enemy – disbelievers – gain a reward, while those defeated by the inner enemy earn a sin and become misguided. Since Satan sees man where man cannot see him, it is befitting that the believers seek refuge from Satan with Whom Satan cannot see. The Isti`adhah is a form of drawing closer to Allah and seeking refuge with Him from the evil of every evil creature.

[6] Is the Isti`adhah (seeking Refuge) required

The majority of the scholars state that reciting the Isti`adhah (in the prayer and when reciting the Qur’an) is recommended and not required, and therefore, not reciting it does not constitute a sin. However, Ar-Razi recorded that `Ata’ bin Abi Rabah said that the Isti`adhah is required in the prayer and when one reads the Qur’an. In support of `Ata’s statement, Ar-Razi relied upon the apparent meaning of the Ayah,

(Then seek refuge.) He said that the Ayah contains a command that requires implementation. Also, the Prophet always said the Isti`adhah. In addition, the Isti`adhah wards off the evil of Satan, which is neccessary, the rule is that the means needed to implement a requirement of the religion is itself also required. And when one says, “I seek refuge with Allah from the cursed devil.” Then this will suffice.

[7] Seeking Refuge before reciting the Qur’an

Allah said,

(So when you ﴿want to﴾ recite the Qur’an, seek refuge with Allah from Shaytan, the outcast (the cursed one).) meaning, before you recite the Qur’an. Similarly, Allah said,

(When you intend to offer As-Salah (the prayer), wash your faces and your hands (forearms)) (5:6) meaning, before you stand in prayer, as evident by the Hadiths that we mentioned. Imam Ahmad recorded that Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri said, “When the Messenger of Allah would stand up in prayer at night, he would start his prayer with the Takbir (saying “Allahu Akbar”; Allah is Greater) and would then supplicate,

(All praise is due to You, O Allah, and also the thanks. Blessed be Your Name, Exalted be Your sovereignty, and there is no deity worthy of worship except You.)

He would then say thrice,

(There is no deity worthy of worship except Allah,).

He would then say,

(I seek refuge with Allah, the Hearing, the Knowing, from the cursed Satan, from his coercion, lures to arrogance and poems.).”

The four collectors of the Sunan recorded this Hadith, which At-Tirmidhi considered the most famous Hadith on this subject.

Abu Dawud and Ibn Majah recorded that Jubayr bin Mut`im said that his father said, “When the Messenger of Allah started the prayer, he said,

(Allah is the Greater, truly the Greatest (thrice); all praise is due to Allah always (thrice); and all praise is due to Allah day and night (thrice). O Allah! I seek refuge with You from the cursed Satan, from his Hamz, Nafkh and Nafth.).” `Amr said, “The Hamz means asphyxiation, the Nafkh means arrogance, and the Nafth means poetry.” Also, Ibn Majah recorded that `Ali bin Al-Mundhir said that Ibn Fudayl narrated that `Ata’ bin As-Sa’ib said that Abu `Abdur-Rahman As-Sulami said that Ibn Mas`ud said that the Prophet said,

(O Allah! I seek refuge with You from the cursed devil, from his Hamz, Nafkh and Nafth.)

He said, “The Hamz means death, the Nafkh means arrogance, and the Nafth means poetry.”

[8] Seeking Refuge with Allah when One is Angry

In his Musnad, Al-Hafiz Abu Ya`la Ahmad bin `Ali bin Al-Muthanna Al-Mawsili reported that Ubayy bin Ka`b said, “Two men disputed with each other in the presence of the Messenger of Allah and the nose of one of them became swollen because of extreme anger. The Messenger of Allah said,

(I know of some words that if he said them, what he feels will go away, ‘I seek refuge with Allah from the cursed Satan.’)”

An-Nasa’i also recorded this Hadith in his book, Al-Yawm wal-Laylah.

Al-Bukhari recorded that Sulayman bin Surad said, “Two men disputed in the presence of the Prophet while we were sitting with him. One of them was cursing the other fellow and his face turned red due to anger. The Prophet said,

(I know of a statement which if he said it, will make what he feels disappear, `I seek refuge with Allah from the cursed Satan.’) They said to the man, `Do you not hear what the Messenger of Allah is saying’ He said, `I am not insane.”’ Also, Muslim, Abu Dawud and An-Nasa’i recorded this Hadith.

There are many other Hadiths about seeking refuge with Allah. One can find this subject in the books on supplication and the virtues of righteous, good deeds.

Dua’ for Increase in Knowledge – Compiled and translated By Abbas Abu Yahya

 Dua ‘ for Increase in Knowledge

Compiled & translated By Abbas Abu Yahya

 1 – Al-Hafidh Ibn Hajr al-Assqalani (d.852 A.H.) -Rahimullaah- said:

‘Regarding the statement: ‘The saying of Allaah Azza wa Jal:

وَقُل رَّبِّ زِدۡنِي عِلۡمٗا

‘Rabbi Zidni Ilma’

<<O my Lord increase me in knowledge>>

This is a clear proof of the Excellence of knowledge. This is because Allaah Ta’ala did not order the Messenger -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- with request for increase in anything except for an increase in knowledge.’

[From: ‘Fath al-Bari’ 1/141]

2 – Umm Salma Radhi Allaahu anha said, the Messenger of Allaah -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- used to say in the supplication in the morning prayer:

اللهم إني أسألك علماً نافعاً، ورزقاً طيباً، وعملاً متقبلاً

‘Allaahumma innee assaluka ilman nafia, wa rizzqan tayyeebun, wa amalan mutaqabilan,.’

‘O Allaah indeed I ask You for beneficial knowledge, and a good Halal provision, and actions which are accepted.’

[Collected by Tayalisee, Tabraani & regarded Hasan by Hafidh Ibn Hajr]

3 – From Anas bin Malik – Radi Allaahu anhu – that he heard the Messenger of Allaah -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- supplicating:

اللهم انفعني بما علمتني وعلمني ما ينفعني وارزقني علما تنفعني به

Allahumman fa’nee bi-maa ‘allam-ta-nee wa ‘allim-nee maa yanfa’u-nee war zuq-nee ‘ilman yanfa’u-nee

‘O Allaah benefit me with what You have taught me, and teach me that which will benefit me, and grant me knowledge which will benefit me.’

[Collected by al-Hakim, Bayhaqi, Tabraani & authenticated by Albaani in Silsilah No. 3151]

4 – Allaah Ta’ala said:

رَبَّنَآ ءَاتِنَا فِي ٱلدُّنۡيَا حَسَنَةٗ وَفِي ٱلۡأٓخِرَةِ حَسَنَةٗ وَقِنَا عَذَابَ ٱلنَّارِ

<< O our Lord give us good in this Dunyaa, and good in the Hereafter and save us from the punishment of the fire  >> [2:201]

Al-Hasan said: al-Hasana (good) in the Dunyaa is knowledge and worship, and in the Hereafter it is Paradise.’

Sufyan said: ‘al-Hasana (good) in the Dunyaa is knowledge and good provision, and in the Hereafter Paradise.’

[From: ‘Lattaif al-Ma’arif p.302]

5 – Abu Bakr Muhammad bin Jafar said: ‘I heard Ibn Khuzaimah while he was asked: ‘Where did you get this knowledge from?’

He answered: ‘The Messenger of Allaah -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- said:

ماء زمزم لما شرب له

Zam Zam water is what it is drank for.’

So, when I would drink Zam Zam water I would ask Allaah for beneficial knowledge.’

[From: ‘Tadhkiratul Huffadh’ 2/721]

Al-Hakim said: ‘I drank Zam Zam water and I asked Allaah that he grant me the ability to compile works of books in a good way.’

[From: ‘Tadhkiratul Huffadh’ 3/1044]

Al-Hafidh Ibn Hajr said: ‘Once I drank Zam Zam, and I supplicated to Allaah, at that time I was at the beginning of studying Hadeeth, I asked Allaah to grant me the status of Dhahabi in memorising Hadeeth.  Twenty years later I went to perform Hajj, and I found in myself the ability to surpass that rank, so I asked Allaah for a higher rank than before, and I hope that Allaah grants me that rank.’

[From: ‘Juz hadeeth (Mau Zam Zam lema shuriba lahu)’ p.191 – 192]

6 – Shaykh ul-Islaam Ibn Taymeeyah (d.728 A.H.) -Rahimullaah- said:

‘The reality of the issue is that a slave of Allaah is in dire need of asking someone for knowledge and guidance, seeking and asking, then he remembers Allaah and of his dire need of Allaah, then Allaah guides and shows him.  Just as Allaah said:

يا عبادي كلكم ضال إلا من هديته فاستهدوني أهدكم

‘O My worshippers! All of you are astray except the one whom I have guided, so seek guidance from Me and I will guide you.’
[Collected by Muslim]

And just as the Prophet -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- used to say:

اللَّهُمَّ رَبَّ جَبْرَائِيلَ وَمِيكَائِيلَ وَإِسْرَافِيلَ. فَاطِرَ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضِ. عَالِمَ الْغَيْبِ وَالشَّهَادَةِ. أَنْتَ تَحْكُمُ بَيْنَ عِبَادِكَ فِيمَا كَانُوا فِيهِ يَخْتَلِفُونَ. اهْدِنِي لِمَا اخْتُلِفَ فِيهِ مِنَ الْحَقِّ بِإِذْنِكَ إِنَّكَ تَهْدِي مَنْ تَشَاءُ إِلَى صِرَاطٍ مُسْتَقِيمٍ

Allaahumma Rabba Jibreela wa Mikaa’eela wa Israafeel, faatir al-samawaati wa’l-ard, ‘aalim al-ghaybi wa’l-shahaadah, anta tahkumu bayna ‘ibaadika fima kaanu fihi yukhtalifoon, ihdini lima’khtulifa fihi min al-haqq bi idhnika, innaka tahdi man tasha’ ila siraatin mustaqeem 

‘O Allaah, Lord of Jibraeel, Mikael and Israfeel, You are the Originator of the heavens and the earth, the One who has all knowledge of the unseen and what is visible. You judge between Your worshippers in what they differ, guide me to the truth by Your permission in what they differ, indeed You are the One who guides whom You want to the straight path.’ [Collected by Muslim]

[Majmoo’ Fatawa 4/39]

[Taken from: ‘an-Nubdha fee Adab Talab al-Ilm’ by Muhammad Uthman p.179-181]

Above Post slightly updated by AbdurRahman. Org – added transliteration of the dua’a

[Short Clip] Types Of Knowledge and Various Dua’s Regarding Knowledge – Owais al-Hashimi [Audio|En]

Types Of Knowledge & Various Dua’s Regarding Knowledge
Owais al-Hashimi (hafidhahullaah)
[Mp3|English]

Published on 12 Mar 2012 by Bilal Nahim

Listen / Download Mp3 Here  (Time 5:23)

The Best Way for Sisters to Say the Supplication to Alleviate Grief, Distress and Anxiety

According to Shaykh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah (May Allah have mercy upon him)

An exclusive translation for Sisters Upon Al-Istiqaamah

http://uponistiqaamah.blogspot.com/2011/03/best-way-for-sisters-to-say.html

The meaning of “Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam” – Shaykh Uthaymeen

Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam – The salaah and salaam of Allaah be upon His Prophet Muhammad.

The salaah of Allaah upon Prophet Muhammad is His Praise of the Prophet before the angels who are close to (but below) Allaah, the Most High, who istawaa (ascended) upon His ‘Arsh (Throne), which is above the seven heavens, in a manner that suits His Majesty. The angels also praise the Prophet (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam).

The salaam is Allaah’s safeguarding of the Prophet (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) from deficiencies and any kind of evil, and the protection of the Message with which he was entrusted.

When the Muslim says “sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam”, he invokes Allaah to grant His Praise and Security to Prophet Muhammad and the protection of the Message of Islam which was revealed to him (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam).

[See Ibnul Qayyim’s Jalaa’ul Afhaam fee Fadlis-Salaati-wa-Salaam ‘alaa Muhammadin Khairil Anaam, [Damascus, Syria: Daar Ibn Katheer, and Daar at-Turaath, Al-Madeenah, Saudi Arabia 1408/1988, p.128].

Visit the Website of Dr. Saleh as Saleh Rahimahullaah : http://understand-islam.net

The Above is Taken from :

Tafseer Ayatul-Kursi – By Shaykh Muhammad bin Saalih Al-’Uthaymeen
With Related Points of Benefit From the Shaykh’s Commentary on Imaam ibn Taymeeyah’s Sharhul ’Aqeedatil-Waasitiyyah,  Prepared by  Dr. Saleh As-Saleh (rahimahullah)

Related Links:

The Status of the Messenger & His Rights upon Us  [PDFs] – Compiled by The Eminent Shaykh, the Muhaddith, Rabee’ ibn Haadee al-Madkhalee