Islamic Knowledge – Islam, Sunnah, Salafiyyah
Allah has ninety nine names, one hundred minus one; and he who counts them all will enter Al-Jannah (the Garden Of Heaven), and Allah is “witr” (One) and loves the witr (i.e. odd numbers).
[Al-Bukhaari, At-Tirmidhi, An-Nasaai, Ibn Majah]
True Meaning of ‘Laa ilaaha illa Allaah’ is : There is no deity truly worthy of worship except Allah
All praise is due to Allah alone and may peace and blessings be upon the Noblest of the messengers, our Prophet Muhammad, his family, his Companions, Tabi`un (Followers, the generation after the Companions of the Prophet) and those who followed them in the best manner until the Day of Resurrection.
I have read the article written by our brother in Islam, the eminent Shaykh `Umar ibn Ahmad Al-Millibary on the meaning of ‘La ilaha illa Allah’. I read the explanation of the shaykh thoroughly on the three points of view regarding its meaning. The definitions are as follows:
First, it means that there is no deity truly worthy of worship except Allah.
Second, that there is no deity truly worthy of obedience except Allah.
Third, that there is no god but Allah.
The correct definition, as he stated, is the first which is clarified in the Book of Allah (may He be Praised) many times. For instance, Allah (may He be Praised) states, You (Alone) we worship, and You (Alone) we ask for help (for each and everything). and, And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. He (may He be Praised) also states, And I (Allâh) created not the jinn and mankind except that they should worship Me (Alone). and, That is because Allâh — He is the Truth (the only True God of all that exists, Who has no partners or rivals with Him), and what they (the polytheists) invoke besides Him, it is Bâtil (falsehood).
There are many Ayahs (Qur’anic verses) to this effect. Moreover, this is the meaning that the polytheists understood from ‘La ilaha illa Allah’, when the Prophet (peace be upon him) called them to it, saying: O my people, say ‘La ilaha illa Allah’, to succeed.
They denied it and haughtily rejected to accept him because they understood that it contradicts their forefathers’ worship of idols, trees and stones and their deification, as Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) mentions in Surah (Qur’anic chapter) Sad, And they (Arab pagans) wonder that a warner (Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) has come to them from among themselves. And the disbelievers say: “This (Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) is a sorcerer, a liar. “Has he made the âlihah (gods) (all) into One Ilâh (God – Allâh). Verily, this is a curious thing!”
In Surah Al-Saffat (ayat 35 and 36), Allah states concerning the polytheists: Truly, when it was said to them: La ilaha illa Allah (none has the right to be worshipped but Allah), they puffed themselves up with pride (i.e. denied it). And (they) said: “Are we going to abandon our alihah (gods) for the sake of a mad poet?” This indicates that the polytheists understood that the meaning of ‘La ilaha illa Allah’ superseded their deities and necessitated dedicating their acts of worship to Allah Alone. Thus, when one of them embraced Islam, he gave up Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship) and dedicated acts of worship to Allah Alone.
Had ‘La ilaha illa Allah’ meant only that there is no god but Allah, or that there is none worthy of obedience but Allah, they would have never rejected it. That is because they already knew that Allah is their Lord and Creator Who must be obeyed in the orders they believed to come from Him. Rather, they believed that worship of idols, prophets, angels, righteous people, trees and the like were their intercessors with Allah and brought them closer to Him. Allah says in Surah Yunus, aya 18: And they worship besides Allah things that harm them not, nor profit them, and they say: “These are our intercessors with Allah.” Say: “Do you inform Allâh of that which He knows not in the heavens and on the earth?” Glorified and Exalted is He above all that which they associate as partners (with Him)! He (Glorified and Exalted be He) also states: The revelation of this Book (the Qur’ân) is from Allâh, the All-Mighty, the All-Wise. Verily We have sent down the Book to you (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) in truth: So worship Allâh (Alone) by doing religious deeds sincerely for Allâh’s sake only. Surely the religion (i.e. the worship and the obedience) is for Allâh only. And those who take Auliyâ’ (protectors, helpers, lords, gods) besides Him (say): “We worship them only that they may bring us near to Allâh.”
The pagans admitted that they worshiped others only to bring them near to Allah, but Allah (may He be Praised) responded to this, Verily, Allâh will judge between them concerning that wherein they differ. Truly, Allâh guides not him who is a liar, and a disbeliever.
Allah (may He be Praised) declared that they are both liars in the claim that their deities bring them near to Allah, and disbelievers because of committing this act. There are many Ayahs that support this meaning.
All praise be to Allah, Lord of the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, his Companions, Tabi`un and those who followed them in the best manner until the Day of Resurrection!
Source : alifta.com – by Shaik Ibn Baaz
Or download the PDF : The Meaning of ‘La ilaha illa Allah’ – Ibn Baz Fatawa – from alifta.com [PDF]
[35 minutes]
Part of the Book “Explanation of Fundamentals of Faith” .
Rendered into English By Dr. Saleh As-Saleh.
1 – Belief In Allah’s Existence Allah’s existence is affirmed through Fitrah (the innate purity that Allah creates in every human being), the Mind, the Shari’ah (Islamic Law) and the senses.
a) As for the Fitrah, we say the following: Allah created the belief in Him in every human being. Mankind needs not to be taught this belief or think about how to possess it. However, the ones who have this Fitrah corrupted will not benefit from it. The Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said, what translated means, “Every newly born will be born having Fitrah. However, his parents will either convert him to Judaism, Christianity or Majocism (fire worshipping).” [Saheeh al-Bukhari]
b) The Human Mind must be used to prove the existence of Allah. All this creation, of old and new, must have a Creator who invented and started it. This creation could not have come to existence on its own or by chance. It could not have created itself, because it did not exist beforehand. Therefore, how can it create? Also, the creation could not have been started by accident or chance. Everything that exists must have a Creator who brought it into existence. Creation is magnificent in organization, coherent and correlated in its existence. There is a reason and originator behind every act. All this nullifies the saying that this entire universe was started by chance. What was started by chance cannot be organized in its form because it did not have any organization before it was formed. What makes what was created by chance to be this organized? If all this creation neither could have created itself nor was it created by chance, then it must have an Originator, Allah, the Lord of the worlds. Allah mentioned this reasoning in the Quran, “Were they created by nothing, or were they themselves the creators?” [52:35].
This Ayah means that men were neither created without a Creator nor did they create themselves. Therefore, Allah is the One who created them. This is why when Jubair ibn Mut’im (radiyallaahu anhu) heard the Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) recite this Surah until he reached, “Were they created by nothing, or were they themselves the creators? Or did they create the heavens and the earth? Nay, but they have no firm belief. Or are with them the Treasures of your Lord? Or are they the tyrants with authority to do as they like?” [52:35-37],
Jubair, a disbeliever then, said, “My heart almost flew (from the power of this reasoning mentioned in the Surah). This was the first time that Iman entered my heart.” [Saheeh al-Bukhari]
c) – As for the Shari’ah, all divine religions testify to the fact that Allah created the world. All Laws that were sent with these divine and revealed religions contain what benefits mankind. This is evidence to the existence of a Wise and All-Knowing Lord Who knows what brings benefit to His creation, All divinely-revealed religions describe a universe that is self evident to the existence and ability of Allah, Who Creates what He Will.
d) – Also, the senses must be used to prove the existence of Allah. We know that Allah accepts the supplication from whoever seek His aid and help, and that He brings them the benefits that they desire. This is clear evidence to the existence of Allah, who said, what translated means, “And (remember) Noah, when he cried (to Us) aforetime We listened to his invocation.” [21:76] and, “(Remember) when you sought help from your Lord and He answered you?” [8:9].
Anas ibn Malik (radhiyallahu anhu) said, “An Arabian (Bedouin) man entered (the Masjid) on Friday while the Prophet was delivering the speech. He said: ‘O Messenger of Allah! (Our) possessions are destroyed, (our) children are hungry. Ask Allah for us.’ He (the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) raised his hands in supplication (to Allah). All of a sudden, mountain-like clouds were formed. He did not descend from his Minbar (the podium) until I saw rain falling through his beard. On the second Friday, this Arabian man, or someone else, stood up and said: ‘O Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), Buildings have collapsed and possessions are flooded. Ask Allah for us.’ He (the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) raised his hands and said: ‘O my Lord! Around us and not on us.’ Wherever he pointed to an area (of the sky), they (the clouds) dispersed.” [Saheeh al-Bukhari]
Allah’s acceptance of supplication has been and still is a known matter until today. It is given to those who are true in their seeking refuge in Allah and perform supplication in the correct manner to ensure its acceptance. Also, there are the signs that Allah gave His Prophets, which are called miracles. People witnessed or heard these miracles. They are clear evidence that the One who sent the Messengers exists, and He is Allah the All Mighty.
These miracles are activities that are beyond the capability of mankind. Allah gave them to His Messengers as a way of aiding them and giving them victory. An example of these miracles is the sign given of Moses. Allah ordered him to strike the sea with his stick, and the sea parted into twelve separate pads between mountains of water on each side of these parts, “Then We inspired Moses (saying): “Strike the sea with your stick. And it parted, and each separated part (of that sea water) became like the huge, firm mass of a mountain.” [26:63]. Another example is the miracle of Jesus. He was given the power by Allah to raise the dead from their graves and back into life. Allah said about him, what translated means, “And I bring the dead to life by Allah’s leave.” [3:49] and, “And when you (O Jesus) brought forth the dead by My Permission.” [5:110]
A third example is the miracle Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) performed. His tribe, Quraysh, asked him to perform a miracle. He pointed to the moon and it separated into two parts while his people were witnessing the incident. Allah said about this miracle, what translated means, “The Hour has drawn near, and the moon has been cleft asunder. And if they see a sign, they turn away, and say: “This is continuous magic.” [54:1-2].[4] All these miracles, that Allah gave to His Messengers as an aid and victory and that were witnessed by their nations, are proof that Allah exists.
2 – Belief In Allah’s Lordship This means to believe that Allah is the Lord, alone, and that He has no partners or helpers. The Rabb (Lord) is the One who Creates and Commands. There is no creator except Allah and there is no owner of the universe except Him. The Commandment and the Control is His. He said, what translated means, “Surely, His is the Creation and commandment.” [7:54] and, “Such is Allah your Lord; His is the Kingdom. And those whom you invoke or call upon instead of Him, own not even a Qitmir (the membrane over the date-stone).” [35:13]. Only a few people rejected Allah’s Lordship. These are the arrogant ones who deny what they believe deep in their hearts. This happened from Pharaoh, when he said to his people, as was mentioned in the Qur’aan, “I am your lord, most high.” [79:24] and, “O chiefs! I know not that you have a god other than me!” [28:38].
However, what he said was not his true belief. Allah said, what translated means, “And they belied them (Our Signs) wrongfully and arrogantly, though their own selves were convinced thereof” [27:14].
Also, Moses said to Pharaoh, as was mentioned in the Quran, ”Verily, you know that these Signs have been sent down by none but the Lord of the heavens and the earth as clear (evidences of His Oneness and Might). And I think you are, indeed, O Pharaoh, doomed to destruction.” [17:102]. The Arab disbelievers of old used to confirm Allah’s Lordship, although they associated others with Him in worship.
Allah said, what translated means, “Say: “Whose is the earth and whosoever is therein? If you know!” They will say: “It is Allah’s!” Say: “Will you not then remember?” Say: “Who is the Lord of the seven heavens and the Lord of the Great Throne?” They will say: “Allah.” Say: “Will you not then fear Allah?” Say: “In Whose Hands is the sovereignty of everything? And He protects (all), while against Whom there is no protector, if you know?” They will say: “(All this belongs) to Allah.” Say: “How then are you deceived and turn away from the truth?)” [23:84-89],
And indeed if you ask them: “Who has created the heavens and the earth?” They will surely say: “The All-Mighty, the All-Knower created them.” [43:9]
and, “And if you ask them who created them, they will surely say: “Allah.” How then are they turned away (from His worship)” [43:87].
Allah’s order comprises of both, His running of the universe and the Commandment. He is the One who controls the creation and the One who does what He will, according to His Wisdom. He is also the One who gives the Commandment organizing aspects of worship and dealings, according to His Wisdom. Whoever takes anyone, besides Allah, to be the one who commands acts of worship or types of dealings, will have committed Shirk (disbelief, association in worship) with Allah. This act negates Iman.
3 – The Belief That He Is the ILAH: Allah is the Ilah, meaning He is the Worshipped One Who has no partners. This Ilah is worshipped with love and reverence. He said, what translated means, “And your Lord is One Lord, there is none who has the right to be worshipped but He, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.” [2:163]
and, “Allah bears witness that none has the right to be worshipped but He, and the Angels, and those having knowledge (also give this witness); (He is always) maintaining His creation in Justice, none has the right to be worshipped but He, the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.” [3:18].
All things that are taken as gods, besides Allah, are false gods, “That is because Allah is the Truth (the Only True God), and what they (the disbelievers) invoke besides Him, it is falsehood. And verily, Allah is the Most High, the Most Great.” [22:62].
To call these things “gods,” does not make them gods. Allah said about some idols, Al-Lat, Al-’Uzzaa and Manat, “They are but names which you have named, you and your fathers, for which Allah has sent down no authority” [53:23].
Yousef (Joseph) said to his two companions in jail, as was mentioned in the Quran, “Are many different lords (gods) better or Allah the One, the Irresistible? You do not worship beside Him but only names, which you have forged, you and your fathers, for which Allah has sent down no authority.” [12:39-40].
All Messengers used to say to their nations, “Worship Allah! You have no other God but Him.” [23:23]. However, the disbelievers refused to accept this call. They took others as gods besides Allah. They worshipped them besides Allah, calling them when aid and help were needed. Allah refuted the disbelievers in their taking these idols as gods besides Him, using two logical arguments:
The first argument: These idols, that were taken by the disbelievers as gods, do not have any attributes that qualify them to be gods. These false gods were created and do not create. They can neither bring about benefit for whoever worships them, nor can they fend harm off. They cannot give life or take it away. They neither own nor are they partners in the kingdom of the heavens and earth. Allah said, what translated means, “Yet, they have taken besides Him other gods that created nothing but are themselves created, and possess neither hurt nor benefit for themselves, and possess no power (of causing) death, nor (of giving) life, nor of raising the dead)” [25:3],
“Say (O Muhammad): ‘Call upon those whom you asset (to be associate gods) besides Allah, they possess not even the weight of an atom, either in the heavens or on the earth, nor they have any share in either, nor is there for Him any supporter from among them.” [34:22-23] and,
“Do they attribute as partners to Allah those who created nothing but they themselves are created? No help can they give them, nor can they help themselves.” [7:191-192].
If this is the case with false gods, then taking them as gods is a true misguidance and the lowest of all acts. The second argument: The Mushrikeen (polytheists) are among those who confirmed that Allah, alone, is the Lord, the Creator, the One Who Has the ownership of everything and the One Who gives protection and no one can give protection to anyone from His Might. This confirmation requires from these disbelievers to worship Allah alone. He said, what translated means, “O Mankind! Worship your Lord (Allah), Who created you and those who were before you so that you may become among the pious. Who has made the earth a resting place for you, and the sky as a canopy, and sent down rain from the sky and brought forth therewith fruits as a provision for you. Then do not set up rivals unto Allah (in worship) while you know (that He Alone has the right to be worshipped).” [2:21-22],
“And if you ask them who created them, they will surely say: “Allah”. How then are they turned away (from His worship)?” [43:87]
and, “Say (O Muhammad): “Who provides for you from the sky and from the earth? Or who owns hearing and sight? And who brings out the living from the dead and brings out the dead from the living? And who disposes the affairs?” They will say: ‘Allah.” “Say: “Will you not then be afraid of Allah’s punishment?” Such is Allah, your Lord in truth. So after the Truth, what else can there be, save error? How then are you mined away? [10:31-32].
4 – The Belief In Allah’s Names and Attributes. This belief requires accepting whatever Allah described of Himself in His Book or in the Sunnah of His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam). The Names and Attributes must be accepted without alteration [1], rejection [2], and precise description of their true nature or equating them with attributes of the creation. Allah said, what translated means, “And (all) the Most Beautiful Names belong to Allah, so call on Him by them, and leave the company of those who deny His Names. They will be requited for what they used to do.” [7:180],
“His is the highest description in the heavens and in the earth. And He is the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.” [30:27] and, “There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the All-Hearer, the All Seer.” [42:11].
Two groups have fallen into misguidance concerning this matter:
One of them is Al-Mu’attilah (the refuters). This group rejected the Names and Attributes, or some of them, claiming that to accept them is to equate Allah with His creation. This claim is false for many reasons following are two of them:
1. This claim leads to false conclusions that Allah’s Words are in Opposition to each other. Allah is the One who confirmed these Names and Attributes and denied that there is anything that resembles Him. If confirming these Names and Attributes leads to equating Allah with the creation, then this will lead to the conclusion that Allah’s Words are full of discrepancies and refute each other.
2. For two things to have an attribute of some kind, does not mean that they are equal or look-likes. One can witness two persons who are both called “a human who hears, sees and speaks.” However, this description of both does not mean that they are of equal capabilities in their hearing, sight or speech. One can also see that animals have hands, legs and eyes. However, this does not mean that animals are equal in every respect with regards to their hands, legs and eyes. If disparity is this wide between that which creation possess of attributes or names, then the disparity between the Creator and creation is even greater and more evident.
The second misguided group is called “Al- Mushabbihah.” They confirmed the Names and the Attributes. Yet, they equated them with the names and attributes of the creation. They claimed that this is what the Texts mean. They claimed that Allah reveals to His slaves what they can comprehend. This claim is false for many reasons, some of them are: Allah’s resemblance with His creation is false and is refuted with the mind and the Laws of Shari’ah. Texts of the Qur’aan and Sunnah cannot lead to falsehood in their meanings.
Allah revealed what His slaves can understand of the general meaning. However, the true nature of what these meanings are like is a knowledge that only Allah possesses, especially with regards to the true nature of His Names and Attributes. Allah confirmed that He is the All-Hearer. Hearing means to comprehend sounds. However, the true nature of Allah’s Hearing is unknown. Creation vary in their hearing capability. The difference between Allah’s Hearing and the hearing of creation is even greater and more evident. Also, Allah confirmed that He Istawa (Mounted or Settled) on His Throne. To mount and settle on a throne is known in the general meaning of the word “mounted,” or “settled.” The true nature of Allah’s mounting on His Throne is unknown. Mounting on something varies with regards to different creation. To mount on a chair is unlike mounting on a wild camel. If Istiwaa’ is this different between creation, then how can the Istiwaa’ of Allah be compared to the Istiwaa’ of creation? The difference between them is greater and more evident. Benefits of Believing in Allah, in the way described above, leads to many benefits for the believers:
1. To truly realize the Taw’hid of Allah, by depending only on Him and hoping in, fearing and worshipping Him alone.
2. To prefect one’s love and reverence of Allah, and according to His Might as described by His Most-Beautiful Names and Most-High Attributes.
3. To truly give one’s worship to Allah, by adhering to His Commandments and abandoning His Prohibitions.
FOOTNOTES
[1] TAAWEEL – Introducing change in a statement, leaving out the meaning understood by it, expressing and accepting such a meaning which the words may indicate in a doubtful sense. In the present context (i.e. Attributes of Allaah) it means rejecting the true meaning of Attributes of Allaah, as understood by the companions (radiyallaahu anhum), and giving preferences to one own understanding.
[2] TA’TEEL (Rejecting,Leaving or Vacating). It means negating the Attributes of Allaah and denying them with His Self. The difference between Taqweel and Ta’teel is that in the latter case the real meaning is denied which is proved by the Qur’aan and the Hadith. While in Tahreef the explanation of the text is done with such meanings that are false and the word does not prove them. So Ta’teel includes Tahreef. Wherever there is Tahreef, Ta’teel is certainly there, but the reverse is not true. If someone tries to prove the false meaning and denies the real meaning, he is committing both Ta’teel and Tahreef
Click the below link to read or download PDF
The Belief in Allaah – What Does it Mean? – Shaykh Uthaymeen – Dr Saleh as Saleh
Visit the Website of Dr. Saleh as Saleh Rahimahullaah : http://understand-islam.net
Source : Tafseer Ibn Kathir of Surah Al-Kahf
And never say of anything, “I shall do such and such thing tomorrow.” Except (with the saying), “If Allah wills!” And remember your Lord when you forget and say: “It may be that my Lord guides me to a nearer way of truth than this.” – Surah Kahf: (23, 24 ayah).
When Allah’s Messenger (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) declared Allah’s Oneness and proclaimed to be the Messenger of Allah (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) and revelation of Divine Message, the disbeliveers of Makkah sent some men to Jewish rabbis in al-Medina and said: “Ask them (the rabbis) about Muhammad (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam), and describe him to them, and tell them what he is saying.They are the people of the first Book, and they have more knowledge of the Prophets than we do.’ So they set out for al-Medina, they asked the Jewish rabbis about the Messenger of Allah (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam). They described him to them and told them some of his teachings.
The rabbis said: ‘Ask him about three things which we will tell you to ask, if he answers them then he is a Prophet who has been sent (by Allah); if he does not, then he is saying things that are not true, in which case how you will deal with him will be up to you. Ask him about some young men in ancient times, what was their story? For there is a strange and wondrous tale. Ask him about a man who traveled a great deal and reached the east and the west of the earth. What was his story? And ask him about he Ruh (soul or spirit) what is it?
If he tells you about these things, then he is a Prophet, so follow him, but if he does not tell you, then he is a man who is making things up, so deal with him as you see fit.’ So, the men came back to Makkah and said: ‘O people! We have come to you with a decisive solution which will put an end to the problem between you and Muhammad (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam). The Jewish rabbis told us to ask him about some matters,’ and they told them what they were. Then they came to the Messenger of Allah (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) and said: ‘O Muhammad (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) tell us,’ and they asked him about the things they had been told to ask.
The Messenger of Allah (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) said: “I will tell you tomorrow about what you have asked me.” But he (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) did not say, ‘If Allah Wills.’
Allah Messenger (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) never spoke anything except with revelation. So, he waited for the revelation from Allah but fifteen days passed away without any revelation concerning those matter which the disbelievers asked, neither did Jibreel (alaihis-salaam) come to him. The people of Makkah started to doubt him and said: ‘Muhammad (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) promised to tell us the next day and now fifteen days have gone by and he has not told us anything in response to the questions we asked.’
The Messenger of Allah (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) felt sad because of the delay in revelation and was grieved by what the people of Makkah were saying about him.
Then Jibreel (alaihis-salaam) came with the revelation of Soorah al-Kahf, which contained answers to the questions and also the above mentioned verse explaining the correct etiquette when determining to do something in the future.
Determining to do something in the future should always be attributed to the Will of Allah, Who is the Knower of the Unseen and Who Alone Knows what was and what is yet to happen and what is not to be.
It is reported in Saheeh al-Bukharee from Abu Hurayrah (radhiyallahu anhu), who said: “The Messenger of Allah (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) said: “Sulaiman Ibn Dawood (alaihimus-salaam) said: ‘Tonight I will go around to all my seventy wives (according to some reports it is ninety or one hundred wives) so that each one of them will give birth to a son who will fight for the sake of Allah.’ It was said to him, (according to one narration, an Angel said to him), say, ‘If Allah Wills.’ But he did not say it. He went around to the women but none of them gave birth except for one, who gave birth to a half-formed child.” The Messenger of Allah (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) said: “By the One, in Whose Hands is my soul, had he said, ‘If Allah wills,’ he would not have broken his oath, and that would have helped him to attain what he wanted.” [Saheeh Muslim (vol. 3, no. 1275)]
So, if one determines to do something in the future or even takes an oath, he should say, ‘If Allah Wills’ or ‘Insha’Allah.’ If one forgets to say “Insha’Allah” then he should say when he remembers it even if it is a year later, as Ibn Abbas (radhiallahu anhu) explained.
Q: I am a Muslim woman from Sweden. I write to you about a complex problem that befell me. Before I embraced Islam, I had been married to a non-Muslim man and gave birth to a child. I named him Mustafa. I and Mustafa’s father separated. Mustafa’s father wanted to raise the child. I feared that Mustafa’s father might use the religion for his own sake. So, I suggested that I sign an agreement with Mustafa’s father without the interference of the court. This agreement stipulates that:
1- Mustafa’s father has the right to see his son for a certain period of time every year.
2- Mustafa’s father abides by respecting the traditions of Islam and never opposes the teachings set by Mustafa’s mother with regard to the rules of food and drink.
Now, let me narrate the story of my problem. I want to relate my problem in details to let you understand the case: when I accepted Islam, my mother was not happy and she hoped that I might forget the whole matter after a while. Some months later, I got married to a Muslim man, a matter that led my mother into a state of hysteria. As a result, she kidnapped Mustafa and called Mustafa’s father as well as the police and the social security. She told them falsehoods about me and my husband. She contacted the lawyer of Mustafa’s father and tried to get us out of our flat. She wrote a letter to the lawyer of Mustafa’s father and told him some lies about me and that I am not competent to raise Mustafa. She added that I am completely insane. In Sweden, the individuals have the right to embrace the religion they want, but it is natural that such case does not apply to the religion of Islam. I was very worried that I might lose Mustafa. When I signed the agreement with Mustafa’s father, I had the intention not to let him see Mustafa at all. I hoped to leave this country in the near future and get rid of this problem completely. Unfortunately, my husband does not yet have a residence document. This means that he can not get a Swedish passport, so we can not travel to any place. Cooperating with Mustafa’s father, my parents helped him with money and securing several things. Theyall do whatever they can against me and against Islam. I know that they intend to influence Mustafa to leave Islam in the same way they did with me. They did several things against me and my family, which I find no room or time to relate in this letter.
Now, let me ask the following questions:
1- Is it permissible for me to breach the agreement I signed with Mustafa’s father out of my fear so that Mustafa could live in peace?
2- Is it permissible for me to prevent Mustafa’s father from seeing his child?
3- Is it permissible for me to send Mustafa to another country?
4- Is it permissible for me in such case to travel alone? Or will I be in need of a Mahram (spouse or unmarriageable relative) to travel with me?
5- Do my parents have the legal right to see their grandson even though they are non-Muslims and plot against Islam?
6- Should I pay a visit to my mother despite the hostility she holds against me?
I am very worried about Mustafa as this may cause him internal conflicts. Two months ago, Mustafa began to study at an Islamic school in Malm?o. He goes there everyday to learn the Holy Qur’an. He loves his school and classmates. Though he is Swedish, he speaks Arabic better than the Arab children themselves. He has memorized several Surahs (Qur’anic chapters).All Praise be to Allah that my son is very intelligent. However, I am always worried about him as I fear that his father may affect him and distract him from the Right Path of Islam, as his father is bad-tempered. I know that he is a liar when he says he respects my religion. This situation is not suitable for a child of this age. I am an adult and reasonable woman who feels strong through this religion. In addition, I can protect myself, but the child can not protect himself. It is not logical or permissible in the field of Islamic education for Mustafa to see his mother performing Salah (Prayer) and reciting the Holy Qur’an one day and see his father performing acts of Kufr (Disbelief) the next day. Mustafa may be inflicted with disorders, which may lead him to be unable to distinguish between what is right and what is wrong. I would be grateful if you would give a reply to my letter as quickly as possible. This is because I want to do what I can for Mustafa and his future so that he can be a pious Muslim, In-Shaa` Allah. I would like you to give me the ruling on the following question: Is it permissible for me in Islam to keep Mustafa away from his father who is a non-Muslim (a disbeliever)?
A: You are more entitled to raise your son, Mustafa, as long as his father is a disbeliever and you are a Muslim. Since you are a Muslim, Mustafa is regarded as a Muslim as well. This is because a disbeliever can not be a guardian of a Muslim, as Allah (Exalted be He) says in His Book, in Surah Al-Nisa’: And never will Allâh grant to the disbelievers a way (to triumph) over the believers. Allah (Exalted be He) says: The believers, men and women, are Auliyâ’ (helpers, supporters, friends, protectors) of one another
May Allah grant us success! May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family and Companions.
Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’
Member Deputy Chairman Chairman
`Abdullah ibn Ghudayyan `Abdul-Razzaq `Afify `Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz
Source: alifta.com
Q 1: Here in Sri Lanka some Kafirs (disbelievers) have accepted Islam, especially Buddhists, but they stay married according to their former religions. One might be married to his niece and they have children. In such a case, we cannot separate them. What should we do?
A: If both spouses accept Islam together, and they are married in a way that is impermissible in Islam, they must be separated at once, such as a couple who accepts Islam while the wife is her husband’s niece.
In such a case, they must be forced to leave each other, as it is impermissible for a Muslim to marry his niece.
This is according to Allah’s saying (Exalted be He), Forbidden to you (for marriage) are: your mothers until His saying, your sister’s daughters and similar cases. A man who accepts Islam while he is married to two sisters is asked to divorce one of them. This is according to what was narrated by Ahmad, Abu Dawud, Al-Tirmidhy and Al-Nasa’y, on the authority of Al-Dahhak ibn Fayruz, from his father that he said, When I embraced Islam, I was married to two sisters. The Prophet (peace be upon him) ordered me to divorce one of them. The wording of Al-Tirmidhy is choose either one of them that you wish. May Allah grant us success! May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family and Companions!
Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’
Member Member Deputy Chairman Chairman
`Abdullah ibn Qa`ud `Abdullah ibn Ghudayyan `Abdul-Razzaq `Afify `Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz
Source: alifta.com
Q: A Muslim married a woman from the People of the Book, then she embraced Islam, but then reverted to her previous religion.
A:
She is unlawful to him, as she is now a Murtad (apostate).
Reference: Fatwas of Permanent Committee – Group 1 – Fatwa :754 Part :20 Page :14 – 15
Source: alifta.com
Q 3: a person embraced Islam and the members of his family are still non-Muslims. Then his parents died leaving behind a legacy for him and his brothers. It is well-known that this Muslim person does not deserve inheritance from his father’s legacy. If his brothers offered him what they think is his share of inheritance, should he accept it? It is said that it is permissible for him to take it as a gift. If this is true, must he tell them that he will accept it as a gift or is his intention enough?
Ans:
It is permissible for this Muslim person to take the money offered for him by his father or brothers whether they are dead or alive as long as it does not draw him back to their religion and as long as they are rational people and know that he does not deserve inheritance.
May Allah grant us success! May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions!
Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’
Member Deputy Chairman Chairman
`Abdullah ibn Qa`ud `Abdullah ibn Ghudayyan `Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz
Source: alifta.com
Q: Does mere pronouncement of Shahadah (Testimony of Faith) suffice for a person to be rightfully called a Muslim, or does one have to do other things in order for their Islam and Iman (faith) to be complete?
A:
It is enough for a non-Muslim to pronounce the first pillar of Islam, that is, to bear witness that La ilaha illa Allah (there is no deity but Allah) and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah to be rightfully called a Muslim provided that this testimony is pronounced out of one’s certainty, knowledge, true belief, and sincere work. A person will then be asked to perform Salah (Prayer) and observe other acts of `Ibadah (worship).
When the Prophet (peace be upon him) sent Mu`adh (may Allah be pleased with him) to Yemen, he said: Invite them to bear witness that La ilaha illa Allah and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah. If they do that, then inform them that Allah has made it obligatory upon them to offer the Five Obligatory Daily Prayers. If they obey, then inform them that Allah has made it obligatory upon them to pay Zakah (obligatory charity) which is taken from the rich among them and distributed among the poor. The Prophet (peace be upon him) did not ask Mu`adh to command them to offer Salah until their Tawhid (monotheism) and Iman in the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) were firmly established. First of all, they are required to declare the Oneness of Allah and believe in Muhammad as the Messenger of Allah. Once they embrace Islam, the former Kafir (disbeliever) will hold the same rulings applied to Muslims. Then they will be required to offer Salah and perform all other religious acts. If they refrain from performing these acts, other rulings will be applicable to them.For example, if they abstain from offering Salah, they are given the chance to offer Tawbah (repentance). Otherwise, the Muslim ruler may punish him by capital punishment. If they arrogantly refuse to pay or and fight for that, they will also be fought. This is based on the fact that the Sahabah (Companions of the Prophet) fought those who denied Zakah. If they deny Sawm (fast), the Imam (ruler) may inflict Ta`zir (discretionary punishment) on them in a way that serves as a deterrent for them. The same applies to abstention of performing Hajj in case a person is financially and physically capable of performing it. This ruling is applicable to all sins which are liable to Ta`zir or Had (ordained punishment for violating Allah’s Law).
In conclusion, a person will be considered as having embraced Islam once they declare Shahadah whereby they will be treated as Muslims. If they die soon after declaring Shahadah, they will dwell in Jannah (Paradise). For example, if they embrace Islam after sunrise and die before they can offer the Zhuhr (Noon) Prayer, they will be regarded as Muslims though they have not performed any Salah. This was the case with some of the Sahabah who were killed on the battlefield soon after they embraced Islam. They belong to the dwellers of Jannah, even though they did nothing except having declared Allah’s Oneness and believed in the Messenger of Allah. However, if they live until the time of Salah is due, they will be commanded to offer it.
If they amass wealth which reaches Nisab (the minimum amount on which Zakah is due), they will be commanded to pay Zakah. They will also be required to observe Sawm if they witness the month of Ramadan. They will also be obliged to perform Hajj if they have the means.
In general, they will hold the same rulings applied to Muslims whether those related to this life or the Hereafter. They will be obliged to fulfill all the duties of Islam. However, if they die before the time of Salah has become due, they will be regarded as Muslims and shall be consigned to Jannah. In case of their persistent refusal to offer Salah, they will be treated as Kafirs. This is the view held by a large number of scholars. Other scholars hold that theywill be considered as having committed minor Kufr (disbelief that is not tantamount to taking the Muslim out of Islam). Although they will have to be put to death, they will not be considered as having committed major Shirk (disbelief that takes the Muslim out of Islam). The same applies to abandoning Zakah or Sawm. The correct opinion is that whenever a person abandons Salah intentionally, they are regarded as having denied its obligatory status. Accordingly, they will be executed according to the correct view maintained by scholars. The majority of Fuqaha’ (Muslim jurists) hold the view that they will be considered disobedient Muslims. This is the view held by the majority of later Fuqaha’. However, `Abdullah ibn Shaqiq Al-`Aqily reported that the Companions were unanimous on the fact that whoever abandons Salah will be considered as having committed Kufr.
Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb
Source: alifta.com
Q 2: what should be done concerning promises made before converting to Islam?
Ans: A man should fulfill only the good promises he took before embracing Islam. It is not permissible for him to fulfill promises involving anything prohibited.
May Allah grant us success! May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family and Companions!
Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’
Member Deputy Chairman Chairman
`Abdullah ibn Ghudayyan `Abdul-Razzaq `Afify `Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz
Sahih Muslim : Chapter 7: WHAT A NON-BELIEVER SHOULD DO WITH HIS VOW WHEN HE EMBRACES ISLAM
Book 015, Number 4072:
Ibn ‘Umar reported that Umar (b. Khattab) said: Messenger of Allah, I had taken a vow during the days of Ignorance (Jahiliyya) that I would observe I’tikaf for a night in the Sacred Mosque. He (the Holy Prophet) said: Fulfil your vow.
Fatwas of Ibn Baz > Volume 3 > A lecture onthe fundamentals of Iman
Comments in red in square brackets like [Comments] are added by AbdurRahman. org for better clarity
Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds. May peace and blessings be upon the Servant of Allah, His Messenger, the best of His Creatures, and His Trustee over His revelation, our Prophet, Imam, Muhammad ibn `Abdullah. May Allah’s Peace and Blessings be upon his family, Companions, and those who adopt his way and follow his guidance until the Day of Resurrection!
Dear honorable brothers, my address to you will be on the fundamentals of Iman. This topic was chosen by the university and I agreed to deliver this speech because it is an exceptionally important matter. It is acknowledged that our Deen (Islam) is established upon these tenets, as our Ummah (nation) cannot succeed, live in a state of happiness, security, and glory above other nations except through holding fast to these tenets and acting accordingly in terms of its statements, actions, general conduct, Jihad, and all its affairs.
The Qur’an makes these fundamentals clear in many Ayahs (Qur’anic verses) and are also explained in the Prophet’s Hadiths (peace be upon him). The six fundamentals of Iman are themselves the tenets of the Islamic faith, for preaching Iman in Allah is the foremost objective of this Deen which awakens people’s inclination towards piety, guidance, and Taqwa (fearing Allah as He should be feared). It is the essence of the Message of the Prophet (peace be upon him) who propagated beneficial knowledge and practicing good deeds. All this falls under the realm of Iman.
These six fundamentals have been explained in the Noble Book in different Ayahs, and highlighted in the Prophet’s Hadiths. Allah (may He be Praised) states in His Book: 
It is not Al-Birr (piety, righteousness, and each and every act of obedience to Allâh, etc.) that you turn your faces towards east and (or) west (in prayers); but Al-Birr is (the quality of) the one who believes in Allâh, the Last Day, the Angels, the Book, the Prophets
Allah (may He be Praised and Exalted) mentions in this Ayah fivefundamentals of Iman: To believe In Allah, the Last Day, His angels, Books, and Messengers. These are five matters upon which Islam is based in all its aspects. Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) also states: The Messenger (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) believes in what has been sent down to him from his Lord, and (so do) the believers. Each one believes in Allâh, His Angels, His Books, and His Messengers. (They say), “We make no distinction between one another of His Messengers“
Read More “Excellent lecture on the fundamentals of Iman (Faith) – Shaykh Ibn Baaz”
Q: Is it necessary for new converts to Islam to change their names? Should an adult convert be circumcised?
A: It is permissible for new Muslims to change their names if they carry wrong or bad meanings, as this is a sign of conversion to Islam. If one asks the reason for a convert having changed their name, in most cases, their names before converting to Islam were not suitable, thus they felt it necessary to change them to Islamic names such as Saleh, Ahmad, `Abdullah, `Abdul-Rahman, Muhammad, etc. Names which suggest slavery to other than Allah such as `Abdul- Messiah, `Abdul-Zahra, or `Abd-Musa must be changed to `Abdullah, `Abdul-Rahman and the like, as servitude is to Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) Alone. Therefore, it is best to change names which express servitude to other than Allah and which are familiar and used by the Kuffar (disbelievers) to Islamic names.
It is better for new Muslims to get circumcised by highly-skilled, experienced doctors, even when accepting Islam as adults. A group of scholars hold that it is Wajib (obligatory) upon new converts be circumcised unless there is fear of harm. If a doctor feels that circumcision may harm them, it is waived in this case. However, if a doctor know that it will not cause them any harm, they should be circumcised.
Circumcision is a stressed Sunnah and Wajib according to a group of scholars. Therefore, if it is feasible for an adult to be circumcised without suffering any harm, it is better and safer to undergo such procedure, otherwise they do not have to do it.
If getting circumcised will drive a person away from Islam, it should not be mentioned to them. It can also be abandoned, for embracing Islam is a great bounty even without being circumcised. Therefore, a new convert need not be informed of this if it will turn them away from Islam.
When a new convert becomes steadfast in Islam, they should be circumcised, if it would not pose any risk to their health; otherwise they should not undergo this procedure.
Source: alifta.com
Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb>Volume 1>Chapter on `Aqidah>
[Download Audio] (Time 26:47)
All praise is due to Allah Alone. Peace and blessings be upon the Last Prophet, his family, Companions and those who follow his guidance.
A Muslim should know that Allah (may He be Praised) enjoins all the creation to embrace Islam, hold it firmly and avoid what contradicts it. Allah sent His Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to call for that, informing them that whoever follows him will be guided and whoever turns away from him will be misguided. In many Ayahs (Qur’anic verses), Allah warned people against causes of apostasy and all forms of Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship) and Kufr (disbelief). Under the topic of the rulings of the apostate, scholars (may Allah be merciful with them) mentioned that a Muslim may abandon Islam by committing one of the nullifiers that make his blood and money violable and turn him out of the fold of Islam. The most dangerous and common ten nullifiers are mentioned by Shaykh and Imam Muhammad ibn `Abdul-Wahhab and other scholars (may Allah be merciful with them). Here we will list them in brief so that a Muslim can keep away from them and warn people against them in hope for safety and wellbeing. We will briefly elaborate on them.
First: Shirk in the worship of Allah. Allah (Exalted be He) says: Verily, Allâh forgives not that partners should be set up with Him (in worship), but He forgives except that (anything else) to whom He wills He (Exalted be He) also says: Verily, whosoever sets up partners (in worship) with Allâh, then Allâh has forbidden Paradise to him, and the Fire will be his abode. And for the Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers) there are no helpers. This includes invoking the dead and seeking relief, vowing or offering sacrifice for them.
Second: Whoever takes intermediaries between him and Allah, invokes, and asks them for intercession with Allah and puts his trust in them has committed Kufr (disbelief) according to the Ijma` (consensus) of scholars.
Third: Whoever does not hold the polytheists to be disbelievers, has doubts about their disbelief or considers their ways and beliefs to be correct has committed disbelief.
Fourth: Whoever believes that some guidance other than that of the Prophet (peace be upon him) is more complete than his guidance or that someone else’s judgment is better than his judgment, such as those who prefer the judgment of the Taghut (false gods) over his judgment, then he is a disbeliever.
Fifth: Whoever hates something that the Messenger (peace be upon him) came with, even though he may act on it, has disbelieved. Allah (Exalted be He) says: That is because they hate that which Allâh has sent down (this Qur’ân and Islâmic laws, etc.); so He has made their deeds fruitless.
Sixth: Whoever mocks or ridicules any part of the Messenger’s religion, its rewards or punishments has committed an act of disbelief. Allah (Exalted be He) says: Say: “Was it at Allâh (عز وجل), and His Ayât (proofs, evidence, verses, lessons, signs, revelations) and His Messenger (صلى الله عليه وسلم) that you were mocking?” Make no excuse; you disbelieved after you had believed.
Seventh: Sorcery, which includes magic spells that cause a person to hate or love someone/something. Whoever practices it or is pleased with it commits disbelief. The proof for this is the saying of Allah (Exalted be He): but neither of these two (angels) taught anyone (such things) till they had said, “We are only for trial, so disbelieve not (by learning this magic from us).”
Eighth: Supporting and assisting the polytheists against the Muslims. The proof for this is the saying of Allah (Exalted be He): And if any amongst you takes them as Auliyâ’, then surely he is one of them. Verily, Allâh guides not those people who are the Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers and unjust).
Ninth: Whoever believes that it is permitted for some people to be free of (implementing) the Shari`ah (Islamic law) brought with Muhammad (peace be upon him), then he is a disbeliever. Allah (Exalted be He) says: And whoever seeks a religion other than Islâm, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers.
Tenth: Turning away from Allah’s religion, not learning it or implementing it (is an act of disbelief). The proof for this statement is the saying of Allah: And who does more wrong than he who is reminded of the Ayât (proofs, evidence, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) of his Lord, then turns aside therefrom? Verily, We shall exact retribution from the Mujrimûn (criminals, disbelievers, polytheists, sinners).
There is no difference in committing these nullifiers between the utters them in humor, seriously, or even out of fear except for a person who says them under coercion. All of these (ten) matters are the gravest nullifiers that most often occur. A Muslim must beware of and keep away from these acts. We seek refuge with Allah from the things that entail His anger and severe punishment. May Allah’s Peace be upon the best of His Creation Muhammad, his family, and Companions!
The Fourth Nullifier includes those who believe that man-made laws and constitutions are better than the Shari`ah of Islam, equal to it, or that it is permissible to resort to them for judgment even if he believes that the judgment of Shari`ah is better. Likewise, whoever believes that it is not correct to implement the Laws of Islam in the twentieth century, that this is a cause for the fall of Muslims, or that it is limited to relationship between the servant and his Lord and should not interfere in the other affairs of life. The fourth category also includes those who hold that carrying out Allah’s laws, such as cutting off the hand of a thief or stoning a guilty adulterer is not befitting for this modern era. This category includes those who believe that it is permissible to rule by something other than the Laws of Allah (Shari’ah) in matters of transactions, Hudud (prescribed penalties) and so on, even if he does not believe that it is better than ruling by the Shari`ah. This is because, by doing that, he makes lawful that which Allah forbade, according to the consensus of scholars. Similarly, whoever makes lawful that which Allah has prohibited and this prohibition is indisputably established, such as adultery, Khamr (intoxicant), Riba (usury/interest) and ruling by anything other than the Shari`ah, then he is a disbeliever according to the consensus of Muslim scholars.
May Allah guide all of us to what pleases Him. May Allah guide us and all Muslims to His straight path! He is All-Hearer, Ever Near. May peace and blessings of Allah be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions!
Source for above : Shaykh Ibn Baaz – alifta.com
Al-Qadaa Wal Qadar : Pre-Decree – Brief Summary – by Dr. Saleh As-Saleh
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Al-Qadaa Wal Qadar – Summary – Dr. Saleh as Saleh [PDF]
[Download PDF]
The Message of the Messengers – Dr Saleh As-Saleh
Allaah Makes All That Known By His Words
A call to Ponder & Contemplate
Prepared by Dr. Saleh As-Saleh
Visit the Website of Dr. Saleh as Saleh Rahimahullaah : http://understand-islam.net
The Shahaadah – Testimony of Faith- by Dr. Saleh As-Saleh (rahimahullah)
Click the Below Link to Read or Download the Document
[The Shahaadah – Testimony of Faith – by Saleh As-Saleh]
Visit the Website of Dr. Saleh as Saleh Rahimahullaah : http://understand-islam.net
Compiled by Dr. Saleh As-Saleh (rahimahullah)
http://understand-islam.net/salat/04.html
1-Meaning of Salah (Prayers)
As-Salah:In the Arabic language it means du’aa’ (Invocation).
As-Salah:Islamically it means to worship Allaah through certain known and prescribed sayings and actions starting with Takbeer (saying Allaahu Akbar Allaah is the Greater), and ending with Tasleem (saying: as-salaamu ‘alaykum wa Rahmatul-lahi wabarakaatuh may Allaah’s Peace, Mercy, and Blessings be upon you).
2-The Merits of As-Salah
1-Prevents from Al-Fahshaa’ (great sins of every kind, unlawful sexual intercourse, etc.) and Al-Munkar (disbelief, polytheism, and every kind of evil wicked deed, etc.). [see Q:29/45].
2-The best of deeds after the Testimony of Faith (laa ilaaha illal-laah, Muhammad rasoulul-laah). [hadeeth ‘Abdullaah ibn Mas’oud (radiyallaahu ‘anhu) in Bukhari (v.9; 625) & Muslim].
3-Washes out sins. [hadeeth of Jaabir (radiyallaahu ‘anhu) in Muslim (v1;1410)].
4-Expiates sins. [hadeeth of Abu Hurairah (radiyallaahu ‘anhu) in Muslim (v1;450)].
5-A light for its adherent in this Life and in the Hereafter. [hadeeth of Ibn ‘Umar (radiyallaahu ‘anhuma) in Musnad Ahmad (v2;169) with good chain of narration].
6-Raises in rank and removes sins. [hadeeth of Thawbaan (radiyallaahu ‘anhu) in Muslim (v.1; 989)].
7-One of the greatest causes to enter Paradise with the company of the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam). [hadeeth of Rabee’ah al-Aslami (radiyallaahu ‘anhu) in Muslim (v1; 990)].
8-Between each performance of salaat and the next performance, sins are pardoned [hadeeth ‘Uthmaan (radiyallaahu ‘anhu) in Muslim (v1;438)].
9-The angels will ask Allaah for Blessings and Forgiveness upon the adherent in his place of prayers. [hadeeth Abu Hurairah (radiyallaahu ‘anhu) in Bukhari (v.3; 330) and in Muslim].
10-Waiting for the next prayer after observing a prayer is Ribaat (keeping oneself adhering and firm on acts of obedience).[hadeeth Abu Hurairah (radiyallaahu ‘anhu) in Muslim (251)].
11-The one who goes to the Mosque to perform the prayer is in prayer until he returns. [hadeeth Abu Hurairah radiyallaahu ‘anhu) in “saheeh” ibn Khuzaimah; authenticated by Al-Albani].
Allah, the Most High, Says:
“Verily, Salah (Prayers) is enjoined on the believers- to be performed-at fixed times.” [Qur’an 4:103].
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Prayer
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Time
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Reg* or Opt** (before the Obligatory) Units
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Obligatory Units
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Reg* or Opt** (following the Obligatory) Units
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Fajr (early morning); 2 Obligatory units
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dawn – sunrise
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2*
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2
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–
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Thuhr (noonday); 4 obligatory units.
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zawaal (sun passing its zenith) – time of next prayer (‘Asr)
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2* & 2*
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4
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2 (2**)
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‘Asr (late afternoon), 4 obligatory units.
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time when shadow of a vertical stick equals its length – sunset
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4**
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4
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–
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Maghrib (sunset); 3 obligatory units.
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sunset – disappearance of red twilight (glow) in the sky.
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2**
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3
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2*
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Ishaa’ (night); 4 obligatory units
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disappearance of the red glow – midnight
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2*
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4
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2*, 2*, 1*
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One Unit of Prayer (Rak’ah) constitutes certain actions: standing, bowing, prostrating, sitting, and prostrating.
If one misses an obligatory prayer due to sleep or forgetfulness, then the person must perform it a s soon as he/she wakes up or when he/she remembers it.
General Guidelines:
1-Intention (it is a determination in the heart that you are performing a particular Salah; not to be uttered).
[Subhanaka Allaahumma wa bihamdika tabaarakas muka wa ta’aalaa jadduka wa laa ilaaha ghairuk.]
O Allaah! I declare You far removed from above all imperfection, and that You deserve all Praise. Blessed is Your Name. Your Majesty (Glory and Might) is Exalted., and there is no true God Worthy of Worship Except You.
5-Recitation of Soorat Al-Faatiha (Opening Chapter of the Qur’an): Must be recited in every unit of prayer (Rak’ah). Begin by utter the following with a low voice:
Then you Must recite the Faatiha in every Rak’ah, pausing after each verse (aayah):
– All the praises and thanks be to Allaah, the Lord of the ‘Alamîn (mankind, jinns and all that exists).
– The Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.
– The Only Owner (and the Only Ruling Judge) of the Day of Recompense (i.e. the Day of Resurrection)
– You (Alone) we worship, and You (Alone) we ask for help (for each and everything).
– Guide us to the Straight Way
– The Way of those on whom You have bestowed Your Grace, not (the way) of those who earned Your Anger (such as the Jews), nor of those who went astray (such as the Christians).
At the end, you must say Aameen .
Those who cannot recite the Faatiha may say instead (Subhanah Allah, Al-Hamdulillah, and la Illaah Illallaah, Allaahu Akbar, and laa Hawlah wa Laa Quwata Illaa bil-laah) which means: I declare Allaah far removed from all imperfection, and deserving all the Praise, and that there is no true God other than Allaah).
Far removed from every imperfection is my Rabb (Lord), the Great. [3 times].
7-Standing Erect (Qiyaam) after Rukoo’:
(i) Rise from bowing, raising you hands to the levels of the shoulders, or earlobes, saying:
ii) Stand upright until one’s very parts take their positions and say:
(iii) Then you raise your head while saying: ALLAAHU AKBAR (sometimes raising one’s hands), sit on your left leg while keeping your right foot upright with its fingers to the Qiblah. Put your hands on your knees [see below], and supplicate saying:
(iv) Following the sitting position, you come up with a second prostration as you did before. Once done you have completed one full unit (Rak’ah). Say Allaahu Akbar and stand up for the second Rak’ah. Do it in the same manner as you did the first one, but without reciting the opening supplication.
9-Sitting for Tashahhud (Testification of Faith):
First Tashahhud
(i) Once you finish the second Rak’ah, follow the same way of sitting as above. Hold your right hand closed with its thumb and middle finger touching each other like in a circle while pointing the index finger straight in the direction of the Qiblah and moving it through the recitation of the Tashahhud:
]التَّحِيَّاتُ لِلَّهِ وَالصَّلَوَاتُ وَالطَّيِّبَاتُ السَّلَامُ عَلَى النَّبِيُّ وَرَحْمَةُ اللَّهِ وَبَرَكَاتُهُ السَّلَامُ عَلَيْنَا وَعَلَى عِبَادِ اللَّهِ الصَّالِحِين. أَشْهَدُ أَنْ لا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللَّهُ وَأَشْهَدُ أَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا عَبْدُهُ وَرَسُولُهُ. [
Allaahumma salli ‘ala Muhammad wa ‘ala aali Muhammad kama sallaita ‘ala Ibraaheem wa ‘ala aali Ibraaheem innaka Hameedun Majeed, wabaarik ‘ala Muhammad wa ‘ala aali Muhamaad kama baarakta ‘ala Ibraaheem wa ‘ala aali Ibraaheem innaka Hameedun Majeed.
O Allaah! Praise Muhammad, and on the family of Muhammad, as You Praised Ibraaheem, and the family of Ibraaheem; You are indeed Worthy of Praise, Full of Glory. And send blessings on Muhammad, and on the family of Muhammad, as you sent blessings on Ibraaheem, and the family of Ibraaheem; You are indeed Worthy of Praise, Full of Glory.
What to do when going for the final Rak’ah in Salah?
In the prayers of the three or four Rak’ah type, after finishing the second Rak’ah and the first Tashahhud, stand up raising your hands (as described earlier) and say: ALLAAHU AKBAR. When you reach the straight standing position, recite the Faatiha and go for the prostrations as done earlier. If you are praying the three Rak’ah prayer of Maghrib sit with your body resting on your left thigh, your left leg under your right, while keeping your right foot upright. This position is called Tawarruk:
For the four Rak’ah prayers, stand up at the end of the third Rak’ah and bring fourth the fourth and final Rak’ah. Recite full Tashahhud in the Tawarruk position
After recitation of the Tashahhud, you can supplicate Allaah with the following invocation (du’aa):
Allaahumma Inni a’oodthu bika min adthabil qabr, wa a’oodthu bika min fitnatil-Maseeh ad-Dajjal, wa a’oodthu bika min fitnatil mahya wal mamat. Allaahumma inni a’oodthu bika minal-ma’tham walmaghram.
O Allaah! I seek refuge with You from the Punishment of the grave and from the Fitnah (trail or affliction) of Ad-Dajjaal [pseudo Messiah], and from the Fitnah of life and Fitnah of death. O Allaah! I seek refuge with You from the sins and from being in debt.
You may also ask Allaah to bestow upon you from the good things for this life and for the hereafter.
10-Concluding Salah by Tasleem:
After you recite the Tashahhud and make the supplications, turn your head to the right and say:
References and Acknowledgment:
1-Sumaries of Prayers (Arabic) by the three great Imaams of our time: Sh. Bin Baaz, Sh. Al-Albani, and Sh. Bin ‘Uthaimeen, may Allah’s Mercy be upon them all.
2-The Prophet’s Prayer described (English) by Sh. Al-Albani. (1413/1993 ed.)
4-Illustration adapted from islam.groub.com/modules/w-s-groub/ [Prayers described].
5-Sister Umm Ahmad al-Kanadiyyah for her encouragement and support to produce reliable information for new Muslims trying to learn Salah.
by Imam Ibn ul Qayyim Jawziyyah,
[Madarij as-Saalikeen 1/100-101, 105], Slightly adapted by Dr Saleh as-Saleh
From a footnote in “The Dispraise of Al-Hawaa (Desire) by Ibnul Qayyim Al-Jawziyyah” © 1998 Dar al-Bukhaari
`Uboodiyyah is a comprehensive term that asserts the meaning of the Verse (Aayah).
“You Alone do we worship and You Alone do we seek for Help.” (Qur’an 1:5)
It comprises the slavery of the heart, tongue and limbs to Allaah ta`aala.
The slavery of the heart includes both the Qawl (saying of the heart) and `Amaal (actions of the heart).
The Qawl of the heart is the belief (I`tiqaad) in what Allaah has informed about His Self, His Names and Attributes, His Action, His Angels, and that which He revealed in His Book and sent upon the tongue of His Messenger Muhammad sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam.
The `Amaal of the heart include love for Allaah, reliance upon Him, turning to Him in repentance, fearing Him, having hope in Him, devoting the Deen sincerely to Him, having patience in what He orders and forbids, having patience with His decrees and being pleased with them, having allegiance for His pleasure, having humility for Him and humbling oneself in front of Him, and becoming tranquil with Him.
The Qawl (saying) of the tongue is to convey what Allah has revealed (in the Qur’an and authentic Sunnah) regarding Himself, His Names and Attributes, His Actions, His Commands, His Prohibitions, and all that is related to this Deen), to call to it, defend it, to expose the false innovations which oppose it, and to establish its remembrance and to convey what it orders.
The `Amaal (actions) of the limbs include the Salaat (prayers), Jihaad, attending the Jumu`ah prayers and the rest of the Jamaa`aat (congregational prayers), assisting those who are unable, and acting with goodness and kindness to creation, and other such acts.
This comprehensive meaning of the `Uboodiyyah pertains to its specific type. The people who fall under this type of `Uboodiyyah are the believers who obey, love, and sincerely follow the Deen of Allaah ta`aala.
The second type of `Uboodiyyah is the general one in which all creatures in the heavens and in the earth are subdued to Allaah’s sovereign Authority and Power; everything is subservient to His Will, and Authority; nothing occurs or ceases to occur except by His leave; His is the Kingdom and He disposes the affairs as He pleases. This type of `Uboodiyyah is known as the `Uboodiyyah of Qahr (Subduing) and Mulk (Sovereignty, Kingship, Possession, Mastership, etc.).
So, the part of the Aayah signifying “You do we worship” asserts the adherence to the four principles of `Uboodiyyah:
The other part, “You Alone do we seek for Help,” stresses the fact that the believer must ask Allaah alone to help him establish the `Uboodiyyah and succeed in executing all what it requires.
From a footnote in “The Dispraise of Al-Hawaa (Desire) by Ibnul Qayyim Al-Jawziyyah” 1998 Dar al-Bukhaari
Source : Compiled by: Dr. Saleh As-Saleh (Rahimahullah)
Visit the Website of Dr. Saleh as Saleh Rahimahullaah : http://understand-islam.net
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