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Category: Qur’an

Ibn Taimiyyah: A Better Way to Divide Recitation of the Qur’ān over a Month

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Ibn Taimiyyah, may Allāh have mercy on him, described a 29 day schedule for completing recitation of the Qur’ān closer to the way the Companions did that.

He said: “…Division by complete surahs takes precedence over division by parts [based on letter count].” (412)

And from the great advantages of division by complete surahs, he mentioned (414):

· Reciting speech whose parts are connected, one part with another;
· Beginning [one’s daily recitation] with that which Allāh began a surah with;
· Finishing with that which He finished with;
· Completing what was intended [to be completed] from every surah.

The chart in Arabic below [checked but not produced by me], shows Ibn Taimiyyah’s recommended schedule for a 29 day completion.

A Better Way to Divide Recitation of the Quran over Thirty Days

Summary of key points by Mikail ibn Mahboob Ariff

Source: Majmū‘ al-Fatāwá, vol. 13, pp. 405-416

Also see:
منتديات الإمام الآجري
http://www.ajurry.com/vb/showthread.php?t=14898

Clear Verses (Muhkam) and Unclear Verses (Mutashabihat) in Qur’an – Shaykh Ibn Al-‘Uthaymeen | Dr. Saleh As Saleh [Audio|En]

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Principles of Tafseer | Based upon the work of Shaykh Ibn Al-‘Uthaymeen rahimahullaah

[Alternative Download Link]

Principles of Tafseer – Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen – Dr Saleh as Saleh [Audio|En]

Audio Source: http://understand-islam.net/site/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=113&Itemid=59
—

Source for the Below: Tafseer ibn Kathir , Surah Al Imran , Darussalam eng Publication

It is He Who has sent down to you the Book. In it are verses that are entirely clear, they are the foundations of the Book; and others not entirely clear. So as for those in whose hearts there is a deviation (from the truth) they follow (only) that which is not entirely clear thereof, seeking Al-Fitnah, and seeking its Ta’wil, but none knows its Ta’wil except Allah. And those who are firmly grounded in knowledge say: “We believe in it; all of it is from our Lord.” And none receive admonition except men of understanding.)  (They say): “Our Lord! Let not our hearts deviate (from the truth) after You have guided us, and grant us mercy from You. Truly, You are the Bestower.” (Surah Al Imran Verse 7-8)

The Mutashabihat and Muhkamat Ayat 

Allah states that in the Qur’an, there are Ayat that are Muhkamat, entirely clear and plain, and these are the foundations of the Book which are plain for everyone. And there are Ayat in the Qur’an that are Mutashabihat not entirely clear for many, or some people. So those who refer to the Muhkam Ayat to understand the Mutashabih Ayat, will have acquired the correct guidance, and vice versa. This is why Allah said,

(They are the foundations of the Book), meaning, they are the basis of the Qur’an, and should be referred to for clarification, when warranted,

(And others not entirely clear) as they have several meanings, some that agree with the Muhkam and some that carry other literal indications, although these meaning might not be desired.

The Muhkamat are the Ayat that explain the abrogating rulings, the allowed, prohibited, laws, limits, obligations and rulings that should be believed in and implemented. As for the Mutashabihat Ayat, they include the abrogated Ayat, parables, oaths, and what should be believed in, but not implemented.

Muhammad bin Ishaq bin Yasar commented on,

(In it are verses that are entirely clear) as “Containing proof of the Lord, immunity for the servants and a refutation of opponents and of falsehood. They cannot be changed or altered from what they were meant for.” He also said, “As for the unclear Ayat, they can (but must not) be altered and changed, and this is a test from Allah to the servants, just as He tested them with the allowed and prohibited things. So these Ayat must not be altered to imply a false meaning or be distorted from the truth.”

Therefore, Allah said,

(So as for those in whose hearts there is a deviation) meaning, those who are misguided and deviate from truth to falsehood,

(they follow that which is not entirely clear thereof) meaning, they refer to the Mutashabih, because they are able to alter its meanings to conform with their false interpretation since the wordings of the Mutashabihat encompass such a wide area of meanings. As for the Muhkam Ayat, they cannot be altered because they are clear and, thus, constitute unequivocal proof against the misguided people. This is why Allah said,

(seeking Al-Fitnah) meaning, they seek to misguide their following by pretending to prove their innovation by relying on the Qur’an — the Mutashabih of it — but, this is proof against and not for them. For instance, Christians might claim that ﴿`Isa is divine because﴾ the Qur’an states that he is Ruhullah and His Word, which He gave to Mary, all the while ignoring Allah’s statements,

(He ﴿`Isa﴾ was not more than a servant. We granted Our favor to him.) ﴿43:59﴾, and,

(Verily, the likeness of `Isa before Allah is the likeness of Adam. He created him from dust, then (He) said to him: “Be!” and he was.) ﴿3:59﴾.

There are other Ayat that clearly assert that `Isa is but one of Allah’s creatures and that he is the servant and Messenger of Allah, among other Messengers.

Allah’s statement,

(And seeking for its Ta’wil,) to alter them as they desire. Imam Ahmad recorded that `A’ishah said, “The Messenger of Allah recited,

(It is He Who has sent down to you the Book. In it are verses that are entirely clear, they are the foundations of the Book; and others not entirely clear,), until,

(Men of understanding) and he said,

(When you see those who argue in it (using the Mutashabihat), then they are those whom Allah meant. Therefore, beware of them.)”

Al-Bukhari recorded a similar Hadith in the Tafsir of this Ayah ﴿3:7﴾, as did Muslim in the book of Qadar (the Divine Will) in his Sahih, and Abu Dawud in the Sunnah section of his Sunan, from `A’ishah; “The Messenger of Allah recited this Ayah,

(It is He Who has sent down to you the Book. In it are verses that are entirely clear,) until,

(And none receive admonition except men of understanding.)

He then said,

(When you see those who follow what is not so clear of the Qur’an, then they are those whom Allah described, so beware of them.)”

This is the wording recorded by Al-Bukhari.

Only Allah Knows the True Ta’wil (Interpretation) of the Mutashabihat 

Allah said,

(But none knows its Ta’wil except Allah.)

Similarly, as preceded in what has been reported from Ibn `Abbas, “Tafsir is of four types: Tafsir that the Arabs know in their language; Tafsir that no one is excused of being ignorant of; Tafsir that the scholars know; and Tafsir that only Allah knows.” Scholars of Qur’an recitation have different opinions about pausing at Allah’s Name in this Ayah. This stop was reported from `A’ishah, `Urwah, Abu Ash-Sha`tha’ and Abu Nahik.

Some pause after reciting,

(And those who are firmly grounded in knowledge) saying that the Qur’an does not address the people with what they cannot understand. Ibn Abi Najih said that Mujahid said that Ibn `Abbas said, “I am among those who are firmly grounded in its Ta’wil interpretation.” The Messenger of Allah supplicated for the benefit of Ibn `Abbas,

(O Allah! Bestow on him knowledge in the religion and teach him the Ta’wil (interpretation).)

Ta’wil has two meanings in the Qur’an, the true reality of things, and what they will turn out to be. For instance, Allah said,

(And he said: “O my father! This is the Ta’wil of my dream aforetime!”.) ﴿12:100﴾, and,

(Await they just for it’s Ta’wil On the Day (Day of Resurrection) it’s Ta’wil is finally fulfillled.)(7:53) refers to the true reality of Resurrection that they were told about. If this is the meaning desired in the Ayah above ﴿3:7﴾, then pausing after reciting Allah’s Name is warranted, because only Allah knows the true reality of things. In this case, Allah’s statement,

(And those who are firmly grounded in knowledge) is connected to His statement,

(say: “We believe in it”) If the word Ta’wil means the second meaning, that is, explaining and describing, such as what Allah said,

((They said): “Inform us of the Ta’wil of this”) meaning its explanation, then pausing after reciting,

(And those who are firmly grounded in knowledge) is warranted. This is because the scholars have general knowledge in, and understand what they were addressed with, even though they do not have knowledge of the true reality of things. Therefore, Allah’s statement,

(say: “We believe in it”) describes the conduct of the scholars. Similarly, Allah said,

(And your Lord comes, and the angels, in rows.) ﴿89:22﴾ means, your Lord will come, and the angels will come in rows.

Allah’s statement that the knowledgeable people proclaim,

(We believe in it) means, they believe in the Mutashabih.

(all of it is from our Lord) meaning, both the Muhkam and the Mutashabih are true and authentic, and each one of them testifies to the truth of the other. This is because they both are from Allah and nothing that comes from Allah is ever met by contradiction or discrepancy. Allah said,

(Do they not then consider the Qur’an carefully Had it been from other than Allah, they would surely have found therein many a contradiction.) ﴿4:82﴾.

Allah said in his Ayah ﴿3:7﴾,

(And none receive admonition except men of understanding. ) meaning, those who have good minds and sound comprehension, understand, contemplate and comprehend the meaning in the correct manner. Further, Ibn Al-Mundhir recorded in his Tafsir that Nafi` bin Yazid said, “Those firmly grounded in knowledge are those who are modest for Allah’s sake, humbly seek His pleasure, and do not exaggerate regarding those above them, or belittle those below them.”

Allah said that they supplicate to their Lord,

(Our Lord! Let not our hearts deviate (from the truth) after You have guided us.) meaning, “Do not deviate our hearts from the guidance after You allowed them to acquire it. Do not make us like those who have wickedness in their hearts, those who follow the Mutashabih in the Qur’an. Rather, make us remain firmly on Your straight path and true religion.”

(And grant us from Ladunka) meaning, from You,

(Mercy) with which You make our hearts firm, and increase in our Faith and certainty,

(Truly, You are the Bestower)

Ibn Abi Hatim and Ibn Jarir recorded that Umm Salamah said that the Prophet used to supplicate,

(O You Who changes the hearts, make my heart firm on Your religion.)

He then recited,

(“Our Lord! Let not our hearts deviate (from the truth) after You have guided us, and grant us mercy from You. Truly, You are the Bestower.”)

Make The Qur’aan Your Constant Companion Not Just For Ramadaan

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Source: ad-Dawal ila-Allah

There is a very good reason why Ramadaan, out of all the months in the Islaamic calendar was chosen by Allaah to be the month of Fasting. That reason? It was in this month, on the Night of Decree (Laylatul-Qadr), that the Qur’aan was revealed to mankind.[1] Allaah, the Most High says:

“The month of Ramadaan in which was revealed the Qur’aan, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the Furqaan (criterion) [between right and wrong]. So whoever of you sights [the crescent on the first night of] the month [of Ramadaan], he must fast that month.” [Soorah al-Baqarah (2):185]

Allaah honoured this month by revealing the Qur’aan in it and it is because of this that He obligated fasting in it.

This is also the month in which Jibreel (alayhi as-salaam) would come to meet the Prophet (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) every night in order to repeat the recitation of the Qur’aan with him. [2]

Thus, the relationship between Ramadaan and the Qur’aan is very close, which is why Muslims worldwide turn to the Qur’aan with a heightened sense of vigour during this month.

Recitation Of The Qur’aan

The main purpose of the Qur’aan is to be a source of guidance for mankind, leading those who cling to it from darkness into light, from misery to happiness and raising them from lowliness to a lofty station.

However, another important feature of the Qur’aan is that its recitation is in itself a form of ‘ibadah’ (worship). In fact the Qur’aan is defined as being the (uncreated) word of Allaah, sent down to Muhammad (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) the recitation of which is a form of worship” [3] a unique definition that can be applied to no other book, writing or statement.

From the very beginning of the Prophet’s Messenger-ship, great emphasis was placed on the recitation of the Qur’aan. The literal meaning of the word Qur’aan itself is ‘Reading‘ or ‘Recitation‘. The first Ayah (verse) to be revealed on that momentous occasion where Jibreel (‘alayhis salaam) came to Prophet Muhammad (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) whilst he was alone in the cave Hira was:

“Iqraa (Recite/Read), in the name of your lord who created you…” [Soorah al-Alaq (9): 1]

The Prophet (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) himself strongly urged his companions to recite as much of the Qur’aan as possible. He said:

“whoever reads a single letter from Allah’s Book will receive a blessing (for each letter) and each blessing is worth ten times its value.” [4]

Indeed the virtues and blessings of reciting the Book of Allaah are many. And by way of encouragement to all of us to spend time reciting and reflecting upon the Qur’aan, some of these virtues are listed below.

1. It Will Come As An Intercessor On The Day Of Resurrection.

The Prophet (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) said:

“Recite the Qur’aan, for verily on the Day of Resurrection it will act as an intercessor for those who recite it” [5]

On the day when neither our family nor our wealth will be of any benefit to us, this Qur’aan will beseech Allaah on behalf of those who recite it frequently. Allaah will give it a speech and Allaah is able to do all things – and it will say to Allaah:

“I prevented him from sleep at night, so accept my intercession for him” [6]

And its intercession will be accepted.

2. Tranquility Descends.

Al Baraa reported that a man was reciting Sooratul-Kahf and there was a horse tied with two ropes at his side, when a cloud overshadowed him. As it began to come nearer and nearer his horse began to take fright from it. He went and mentioned that to the Prophet (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) in the morning, who said:

“It was tranquility [as-Sakeenah] which came down at the recitation of the Qur’aan.” [7]

This shows us that the tranquility and the calmness which results from the recitation of the Qur’aan is not something abstract, but something very real which permeated the whole atmosphere so that even the animals can imbibe it. This ‘Sakeenah‘ (tranquility) which descends upon the reciter is accompanied by Angels who assemble to listen to the Qur’aan.

The Companion Usaid ibn Hudair (Radiya ‘Llahu ‘anhu) mentioned to the Prophet (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) that once when he was reciting the Qur’aan at night while his horse was tied beside him. The horse suddenly became uneasy and started jumping. When he stopped reciting, the horse became quiet. When he resumed reciting, the horse became uneasy again. After repeating this a few times, he stopped reciting and looked up. He was amazed to see right above him something that looked like a big cloud of bright lamps rising up in the sky. The next morning, he told the Prophet (Sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) about this, and the Prophet (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) explained to him that:

“Those were Angels who came to listen to your reading. Had you kept on reciting until morning, they would have remained visible for the people to see them!” [8]

3. It Will Be A Shade On The Day Of Resurrection.

The Prophet (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) said:

“Recite the two bright ones, Soorah al-Baqarah and Soorah Aal-e lmraan, for on the day of Resurrection they will come as two clouds, or two shades or two flocks of birds in ranks, pleading for those who recite them” [9]

We are well aware that on a hot summer’s day when we are out in a scorching sun, the thing we appreciate most is a tree or some sort of canopy, beneath which we can shade ourselves. Imagine how much more we will be pinning for a shade on the Day of Resurrection when…

“the people will be submerged in perspiration according to their deeds, some up to half of their knees, some up to the waist and some would have a bridle of perspiration up to their mouths” [10].

We seek refuge in Allah from the terrors of this awful Day.

So these are just some of the blessings awaiting those who recite the Qur’aan as it should be recited, bringing with them a receptive heart. [11]

Furthermore, these blessings and rewards are only multiplied for those who struggle in their recitation, for the Prophet (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) said.

”One who is skilled in it, ‘the Qur’aan’ is associated with the noble upright, recording Angels, and he who falters when he recites the Qur’aan and finds it difficult, he will have a double reward.” [12]

Of course it goes without saying, that although great emphasis and encouragement has been made to recite the Qur’aan, this is not the goal in itself. Recitation of the Book of Allaah is just a means through which we can absorb its message and act on whatever that messages entails. However, reciting with the meaning is superior to merely reading as the Prophet (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) explained.

He (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) said:

“The example of a believer who recites the Qur’aan and acts on it, is like an orange which tastes nice and smells nice.

And the example of the believer who does not recite the Qur’aan but acts on it is like a date that tastes sweet but has no smell.

And the example of the hypocrite who recites the Qur’aan is like sweet Basil which smells good but tastes bitter.

And the example of a hypocrite who does not recite the Qur’aan is like a Coelacanth which tastes bitter and has a bad smell”. [13]

Companion Of Life:

In this month of Ramadaan, let us use it to habituate ourselves into spending a daily period with the Qur’aan – reciting, memorizing and acting upon it. Because we should know that no people are better and more worthy of our envy than the companions of the Qur’aan,[14] which is why the most striking and outstanding character of every pious person of knowledge is their love and attachment towards the Qur’aan. There is no man or woman who is considered to be righteous, except he or she is known to possess this noble quality. So when Aa’ishah was asked to describe the best of all mankind, the Prophet (sallalahu alaihe wa-sallam) she could find no more a suitable description other than to say that:

“His character was the Qur’aan”. [15]

And among the inheritors of the Prophet (i.e. the scholars) We have the example of lmaam Maalik, whose sister was asked: “What did Maalik occupy himself with in his House?” She replied, “The Mushaf (i.e the Qur’aan), reciting.”

Dear readers, no person can afford to remain ignorant or neglectful of the Qur’aan. Reading it regularly, sincerely not ritualistically, to derive guidance from it and adopt the company of those who make mention of it in their gatherings. Make the Qur’aan your constant companion, not just for Ramadaan, but for life.

Footnotes:

[1] Editors Note: There were two distinct revelations of the Qur’aan. The first is the one being alluded to here where Allaah caused the whole Qur’aan to descend at one time from the Protected Tablet (al-Lawh al-Mahfooth) on which it was written to a station in the lowest heaven referred to as “Bayt al-‘Izzah” (The House of Honour or Power). This occurred in Lailatul-Qadr. The second is the continuous segmented revelation to the Prophet (Sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) via Jibreel (‘Alayh is-Salam) up until just before his (Sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) death.

[2] Collected in Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree (eng. Trans. Vol. 6, pg. 486, no. 518-520)

[3] Al-Waadih Fee Usoolil Fiqh (p.66) of Muhammad Sulayman al-Ashqar

[4] Reported by at-Tirmidhee and al-Haakim. It is authenticated by Shaykh al-Albaanee (Saheeh ul-Jaami’ no. 6469)
[5] Saheeh Muslim (eng. Trans. vol. 2, p. 385. no.1757)
[6] Hasan part of long Hadeeth reported by Abdullah Ibn Amr and collected by Ahmad and others. Authentic by Shaikh Alee Hasan al-Halabee in Sifaat Sawmin Nabee.
[7] Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree (Eng Trans. vol. 6, p.492, no. 531)
[8] Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree (eng. trans. vol. 6, p. 496. no. 536) And Saheeh Muslim (Eng Trans. vol. 1, p.382, no. 1742)
[9] Saheeh Muslim (eng. trans. vol. 6, p. 385. no.1757)
[10] Saheeh Muslim (eng. trans. vol. 4, p. 1487. no. 6852)

[11] There are many virtues attached to the recitation of certain parts of the Qur’aan, for example; Ayat-Al-Kursee [(2):225] is a protection against Shaitaan (Bukhari), Soorah al- Naas and Soorah al-Falaq protect against the evil eye and is a cure (Muslim).

[12] Saheeh Al Bukhaaree & Saheeh Muslim
[13] Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree Volume 6, Book 61, Number 538

[14] Editors Note: Envy is permissible in two cases as stated by Ibn Rajab Al-Hanbali (Rahimahu ‘Llah) in Jaami’ al-‘Uloom wal-Hikam saying, “It is good for a believer to wish for that with which another person has been given if it is beneficial for one’s religion. The Prophet (Salla ’Llahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “Do not wish for the likes of anyone except two: a man upon whom Allaah bestowed knowledge of the Book [the Qur’aan], who stands up [in salaah (prayer)] and recites it during the hours of the night, and a man upon whom Allaah bestowed wealth, and he spends it in charity during the hours of the night and the hours of the day.” [Recorded by al-Bukhaaree in Kitaab Fadaa’il Al-Qur’aan (Book on the Virtues of the Qur’aan) no. 5025; also recorded by Muslim in Kitaab Salat Al-Musaafireen (Book on the Prayer of the Travellers) 815/266]

[15] Saheeh Muslim, Aboo Daawood, Ahmad

Refuting a Claim of the Qur’aaniyoon – Shaykh Al Albaani

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[2] Question:

Noble Shaikh! The Qur’aaniyoon [3] say: Allaah says:

وَكُلَّ شَيْءٍ فَصَّلْنَاهُ تَفْصِيلًا

“And We have explained everything in detail with a full explanation.”
 [Surah Al-Israa: 12]

And Allaah says:

مَّا فَرَّطْنَا فِي الْكِتَابِ مِن شَيْءٍ

“We have not neglected anything in the Book.”
[Surah Al-An’aam: 38]

And the Messenger of Allaah صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “Verily this Qur’aan – part of it is in the Hand of Allaah and part of it is in your hands. So hold fast onto it, for you will never go astray nor will you ever be ruined after it.” [4]

We would like your comments on this?

[2] Answer:

As for Allaah’s saying: “We have not neglected anything in the Book”, what is meant by the word “Book” here is the Preserved Tablet and not the Noble Qur’aan.

And as for Allaah’s statement: “And We have explained everything in detail with a full explanation”, if you attach what was explained previously to the Noble Qur’aan, then it becomes certain that Allaah has indeed explained everything in detail, however with another provision. You are aware that an explanation may at times be general, such as when one places general rules under which exist many particulars the likes of which cannot be confined due to their large number. So by the Wise Legislator placing well known rules for these many particulars, the meaning of the noble ayah becomes apparent.

The explanation may also be detailed, and this is what is obvious from this ayah as the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said:

“I have not left behind anything that Allaah commanded me with except that I have ordered you to do it. And I have not left behind anything that Allaah forbade me from except that I have forbidden you from it.” [5]

So the explanation may at times be with rules, which many particulars (and details) fall under. And at other times it may be in such detail in terms of the vocabulary of the acts of worship and laws that it does not require being referenced to any of these rules.

Among the rules that numerous branches fall under – and which show the greatness of Islaam and the vast scope of Islaam in legislating – for example, are:

The Prophet’s صلى الله عليه وسلم statement: “There is no harming (of oneself) or others.” [6]

The Prophet’s صلى الله عليه وسلم statement: “Every intoxicant is alcohol and every alcohol is unlawful.” [7]

And his صلى الله عليه وسلم statement: “Every innovation is misguidance, and every misguidance is in the Hellfire.” [8]

These are rules and generalizations that do not exclude anything related to harming of one’s self or harming of one’s wealth, with respect to the first hadeeth, nor does it exclude anything related to that which intoxicates, with respect to the second hadeeth, whether the intoxicant is derived from grapes, which is the most popular form, or from corn or from any other substance. So long as the product is an intoxicant, it is unlawful (Haraam).

[Note: Read The Need for the Sunnah in order to Understand the Qur’aan – Shaykh al Albaani]

The same goes for the third hadeeth – it is not possible to take into account the number of innovations due to their large amount. It is not possible to account for all of them. However in spite of this, this hadeeth – even though brief in size – states with all clarity: “Every innovation is misguidance, and every misguidance is in the Hellfire.”

This is a detailed statement but with rules.

As for the laws that you are aware of, they are explained in detail by words that have been mentioned in the Sunnah in most cases and at times they are mentioned in the noble Qur’aan as is the case with the laws of inheritance, for example.

As for the hadeeth that was mentioned in the question, then it is an authentic hadeeth, and acting upon it is what we should try to adhere to as stated in the hadeeth in which the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “I have left two things amongst you by which you will never go astray so long as you hold steadfast onto them: The Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of His Messenger.” [9]

So holding steadfast onto the Rope of Allaah – which is in our hands – refers to acting upon the Sunnah, which explains the noble Qur’aan.

Footnotes:

[3] Translator’s Note: This is a name given to those who claim that the Qur’aan is sufficient for deriving rules and laws in Islaam and that there is no need to turn to the Sunnah. Some even go so far as to reject the Sunnah in its entirety and rely solely on the Qur’aan.
[4] Saheeh At-Targheeb wat-Tarheeb (1/93/35)
[5] Silsilat-ul-Ahaadeeth as-Saheehah (1803)
[6] Saheeh al-Jaami’-us-Sagheer (7517)
[7] Irwaa’-ul-Ghaleel (8/40/2373)
[8] Saheeh at-Targheeb wat-Tarheeb (1/92/34) and Salaat-ut-Taraaweeh (pg. 75)
[9] Mishkaat-ul-Masaabeeh (1/66/186)

Posted by AbdurRahman.Org from al-ibaanah eBook:
[How are we Obligated to Interpret the Qur’aan? – Shaykh al-Albanee]

It is obligatory for one to look for the ruling in the Sunnah, even if he thinks that it exists in the Qur’aan – Shaykh Al-Albaani

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A Weak Hadeeth from Mu’aadh regarding Opinion, and what is Rejected from it:

Before I finish my talk, I feel that it is necessary for me to direct the attention of the brothers in attendance to a famous hadeeth, which seldom is missing from the books on the Principles of Fiqh. I will mention it because it is weak, from the perspective of its chain of narration as well as it being in contradiction with what I spoke about in this talk, which was the lack of there being any distinction between the Qur’aan and the Sunnah when it comes to deriving Laws, and the obligation of accepting these two sources together.

Indeed it is the hadeeth of Mu’aadh bin Jabal radhi Allaahu anhu who reported that the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said to him when he sent him to Yemen:

“With what will you judge by?”

He said: “By the Book of Allaah.”

He صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “And if you don’t find (the answer in) it?”

He said: “Then by the Sunnah of Allaah’s Messenger.”

He replied: “And if you don’t find (the answer in) it?”

He said: “I will strive to form my own opinion.”

So he صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “All praise be to Allaah who guided the messenger of Allaah’s Messenger to that which Allaah’s Messenger loves.”

As for the weakness of its chain, then this is not the place to discuss it now. But I clarified this exhaustively, perhaps the likes of which was not undertaken in the past, in (my book) the “Silsilah” (of weak hadeeth) I mentioned previously. [4] But suffice it to say now that the Ameer-ul-Mu’mineen in Hadeeth, Imaam Al-Bukhaaree, said about this hadeeth that it was “rejected.”

So having said this, it is now possible for me to begin explaining the contradiction it poses, which I stated earlier. So I say:

This hadeeth establishes a methodology of ruling for the judge, based on three stages. He is not permitted to seek a ruling from his opinion unless after he acknowledges he can’t find it in the Sunnah. Nor is he allowed to derive a ruling from the Sunnah until after he establishes he can’t find it in the Qur’aan. With respect to the opinion, this method (of deriving a ruling) is valid and correct according to all of the scholars, which is why they would say: “When the narration is mentioned, the opinion is nullified.”

However, with respect to the Sunnah, this method is not correct, because the Sunnah determines and explains the Book of Allaah. So it is obligatory for one to look for the ruling in the Sunnah, even if he thinks that it exists in the Qur’aan, based on what we stated previously. So the Sunnah with respect to the Qur’aan is not like the opinion with respect to the Sunnah. No, definitely not. Rather we must consider the Qur’aan and the Sunnah as one source, there being no distinction between them at all. This is as has been indicated in the sayings of the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم: “Indeed, I was given the Qur’aan and something similar to it, along with it” – meaning the Sunnah – and “They will not be separated from one another until they return to the Fountain.”

So this dividing them into categories, mentioned in the hadeeth, is not correct, because it necessitates that they are separate from one another. And this is false, as I have explained previously.

Footnotes:

[4] It is found under number 885 of Silsilat-ul-Ahaadeeth ad-Da’eefah. We hope that the volume that includes it will be printed soon, in shaa Allaah.

Posted by AbdurRahman.Org from al-ibaanah eBook:
The Status of Sunnah in Islam – Shaik Nasiruddin Albanee

There Are Many Books Of Tafseer, Which Tafseer Do You Advise (Us) To Read ? – Shaykh Fawzan

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[4] Question: 

Noble Shaikh, there are many books of tafseer, so which tafseer do you advise (us) to read. May Allaah reward you well.

[4] Answer: 

The books of Tafseer are many, all praise be to Allaah. This is from the blessings of Allaah. However, these books of Tafseer vary – amongst them are those that are long and in depth and those that are short and abridged, as well as those that are free from errors and those that contain errors, particularly in matters of Creed.

What I advise my brothers from amongst the youth to read is the Tafseer of Ibn Katheer for it is the greatest of tafseers and the one that uses the best way and method (for interpreting the Qur’aan) in spite of it being abridged. This is since he (i.e. Ibn Katheer) has interpreted the Qur’aan using the Qur’aan first, then by using the Prophetic Sunnah, then with the statements of the Salaf, and finally by using the requisites of Arabic, the language in which it was revealed. So it is a precise and reliable tafseer.

There is also the tafseer of Al-Baghawee and the tafseer of Ibn Jareer At-Tabaree, which is a comprehensive and all-inclusive tafseer. These tafseer books are trustworthy. There is also the tafseer of Shaikh ‘Abdur-Rahmaan As-Sa’adee, which is an excellent tafseer using simple expressions which contain tremendous knowledge.

As for the remaining tafseer books, they are good in some aspects, however they have errors in them, especially in matters of Creed. It is not proper for anyone to read these types of tafseer books except for the person that is proficient in knowledge to the point that he is able to take the good from it and avoid its errors. But as for the beginner, he is not able to do this, so he must take from the tafseer books that do not contain dangers and errors, such as the Tafseer of Ibn Katheer, the Tafseer of Al-Baghawee and the Tafseer of Al-Haafidh Ibn Jareer. All of these books of tafseer are valuable and excellent, all praise be to Allaah.

Posted from: Questions & Answers on the Qur’aan – Shaikh Saalih Al-Fawzaan

AUTHOR: Shaikh Saalih Al-Fawzaan
SOURCE: The end of his treatise “Tadabbur al-Qur’aan”
PRODUCED BY: Al-Ibaanah.com

Advice concerning the simplest way to memorize the Book of Allaah – Shaykh Fawzan

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Question: 

What is your advice to the youth concerning the simplest way to memorize the Book of Allaah?

Answer: 

The Qur’aan is simple and easy to memorize. Allaah says: “And We have indeed made the Qur’aan easy to understand and remember, so is there anyone who will remember it?” [Surah Al-Qamar: 17]

The problem lies in a person’s determination and the truthfulness of his intention. So if a person has true determination and a strong interest in the Qur’aan, Allaah will facilitate and make easy his memorization of it.

There are also some other things one could do to help in memorizing the Qur’aan such as allotting a specific suitable time every day for attending classes with one who teaches the Qur’aan in the masjid. All praise be to Allaah, the teachers today are many. You will not find a neighborhood except that amongst them there lives one who teaches the Qur’aan. This is a great opportunity that didn’t exist in previous times. So a person should choose anyone of the many gatherings or anyone of the many teachers present today and constantly attend these gatherings/sittings with a teacher daily until he completes the Qur’aan.

You should also constantly repeat over and over again what you recite, until it becomes firmly established in your heart and mind. You must also act upon (what you learn from) the Book of Allaah, for that is the greatest means of learning the Qur’aan. Allaah says: “So be dutiful to Allaah and Allaah will teach you. And Allaah is the All-Knower of everything.” [Surah Al-Baqarah: 282]

Posted from: Questions & Answers on the Qur’aan – Shaikh Saalih Al-Fawzaan

AUTHOR: Shaikh Saalih Al-Fawzaan
SOURCE: The end of his treatise “Tadabbur al-Qur’aan”
PRODUCED BY: Al-Ibaanah.com

Should Women Cover their Hair When Reading the Qur’aan? – Dr. Saleh As Saleh [Short Clip|En]

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[Alternative Mp3 Download Link]

Dr. Saleh As Saleh (rahimahullaah) Website :
http://understand-islam.net

The Need for the Sunnah in order to Understand the Qur’aan – Shaykh al Albaani

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The Need for the Sunnah in order to Understand the Qur’aan, and Examples for that:

Allaah’s statement:

“The male and the female thief – cut off their hands” [Surah Al-Maa’idah: 38] is a good example of this, for the word “thief” mentioned in it, is absolute, as is the case with the word “hand.”

The verbal Sunnah explains the first of these two (words) and restricts it to mean just the thief that steals a quarter of a dinaar. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم: “There is no cutting off of the hand except in (cases where one steals) a quarter of a dinaar and more.”

[Reported by Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim]

Likewise, the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم explained the second (word) with his action or with the action of his Companions and his approving of that. This is since they would cut the hand of the thief off from the wrist, as is well known from the books of Hadeeth.

The verbal Sunnah also explains the “hand” that is mentioned in the verse concerning Tayammum:

“Then wipe your faces and hands” [Surah An-Nisaa: 43, Surah Al-Maa’idah: 6] in that it can also refer to the palm.This is based on the Prophet’s saying: “Tayammum is a tap (i.e. wipe) of the face and hands.”

[Reported by Ahmad, Al-Bukhaaree, Muslim and others from the narration of ‘Ammaar bin Yaasir radhi Allaahu anhu]

Below are some other verses from the Qur’aan that cannot be understood correctly, according to what Allaah intended, unless by way of the Sunnah.

1. Allaah says:

“It is those who believe and mix not their Faith with dhulm (wrong) – for them (only) there is security and they are the guided ones.” [Surah Al-An’aam: 82]

The Companions of Allaah’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم understood the phrase “with dhulm (wrong)” according to its general sense, which includes every wrong, even if it be small. This is why they had difficulty understanding the verse and so they said: “O Messenger of Allaah! Which one of us doesn’t mix their Faith with wrong?” So the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “It doesn’t mean that. It only means Shirk (here). Didn’t you hear Luqmaan say:

‘Verily Shirk is a great wrong?’ [Surah Luqmaan: 13]”

[Reported by Al-Bukhaaree, Muslim and others]

2. Allaah’s says:

“And when you travel in the land, there is no sin on you if you shorten your prayer, if you fear that the disbelievers may attack you.” [Surah An-Nisaa: 101]

The literal wording of this verse necessitates that shortening the prayer while on a journey can only be done on the condition when one is in the state of fear. This is why some of the Companions asked Allaah’s Messenger: “So then why do we shorten the prayer when we are in a state of security?” He صلى الله عليه وسلم replied: “This is a charity that Allaah has expended to you, so take His charity.” [Reported by Muslim]

3. Allaah says:

“Forbidden to you (for food) are: al-maytatah (dead animals), blood, the flesh of swine…” [Surah Al-Maa’idah: 3]

But the verbal Sunnah explains that deceased locusts and fish, as well as liver and spleen (types) of blood are lawful. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “Two types of deceased animals and two types of blood have been made lawful for us: locusts and sea fish [meaning all types of fish], and the liver and the spleen.”

[Reported by Al- Bayhaqee and others in marfoo’ and mawqoof form. The chain of the mawqoof narration is authentic and it takes on the ruling of being marfoo’ since it cannot be stated based on one’s mere opinion.]

4. Allaah says:

“Say (O Muhammad): ‘I find not in that which has been inspired to me anything forbidden to be eaten by one who wishes to eat it, unless it be maytah (a dead animal) or blood poured forth (by slaughtering), or the flesh of swine (pork), for that surely is impure, or impious (unlawful) meat (of an animal) which is slaughtered as a sacrifice for other than Allaah…’” [Surah Al-An’aam: 145]

Then the Sunnah came and forbade other things that haven’t been mentioned in this ayah, such as the Prophet’s صلى الله عليه وسلم saying: “Every predatory animal that has fangs and every bird that has claws is unlawful (for eating).” There are also other ahaadeeth on this subject that forbid other animals, such as what the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said on the Day of Khaybar: “Verily Allaah and His Messenger forbid you from (eating) domesticated donkeys, for they are impure.” [Reported by Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim]

5. Allaah says:

“Say (O Muhammad): ‘Who has forbidden the adornment with clothes given by Allaah, which He has produced for his slaves, and the good (lawful) things from provision?’” [Surah Al-A’raaf: 32]

But the Sunnah explains that there are certain types of adornments that are forbidden. It is authentically reported that the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم went out one day to meet his Companions holding silk in one hand and gold in the other, and said: “These two things are unlawful for the males of my ummah, (but) lawful for the females.” [Reported by Al-Haakim who authenticated it] The ahaadeeth bearing this same understanding are many, well known and can be found in the two Saheeh collections as well as other collections.

There are many more examples like these (above) that are known to the people who have knowledge of Hadeeth and Fiqh. So from what has been stated previously, it should become clear to us, O brothers, the importance of the Sunnah in deriving Islamic laws. For indeed if we look back again at the examples I mentioned before, not to mention those that I didn’t mention, we will have certainty that there is no way to understand the noble Qur’aan, unless we understand it along with the Sunnah.

In the first example, the Companions understood the word “dhulm” mentioned in the ayah according to its literal meaning. This was even though they, may Allaah be pleased with them, were as Ibn Mas’ood said: “The best of this ummah, possessing the most pious of hearts, profound in learning and the least of constraints.” But in spite of this, they erred with regard to understanding that. So if it were not for the Prophet refuting their error and guiding them to what was correct with regard to the meaning of “dhulm” – that it in fact meant Shirk here – we would have followed them upon their error. However, Allaah, Mighty and Majestic, saved us from that due to the grace of the Prophet’s guidance and Sunnah.

And in the second example: if it weren’t for the afore-mentioned hadeeth, we would have remained in doubt, to say the least, regarding shortening the prayer while on a journey in the state of security. That is to say if we wouldn’t have already taken the view of making being in the state of fear a condition, as is literally stated in the ayah. This is also just what the Companions themselves understood (about the ayah) until they saw the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم shorten his prayer, and they shortened their prayer along with him, while they were in a state of security.

In the third example: If it weren’t for the hadeeth, we would have been forbidden from foods that were made lawful for us, such as (dead) locusts and fish, and liver and spleen.

In the fourth example, if it weren’t for the hadeeth, which mentions some things (not mentioned in the ayah), we would have made lawful what Allaah had made forbidden through the tongue of the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم, such as predatory (fanged) animals and birds with claws.

The same goes for the fifth example, if it weren’t for the ahaadeeth reported in that regard, we would have made lawful that which Allaah made unlawful upon the tongue of the Prophet, such as silk and gold. This is why some of the Salaf used to say: “The Sunnah judges upon the Book (i.e. Qur’aan).”

Posted by AbdurRahman.Org from al-ibaanah eBook:
The Status of Sunnah in Islam – Shaik Nasiruddin Albanee

Knowledge of Arabic is not sufficient for understanding the Qur’aan – Shaykh al Albaani

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Knowledge of Arabic is not sufficient for understanding the Qur’aan:

From what has been stated previously, it becomes clear that there is no way for anyone, even if he be a scholar of the Arabic Language and its disciplines, to understand the noble Qur’aan, without seeking assistance in that from the Prophet’s Sunnah in speech and action. This is since he will never be more knowledgeable of the language than the Companions of the Prophet, those who the Qur’aan was revealed to in their language. And (at that time) the language was not blemished with the errors of the non-Arabs and the slang of the common people, but in spite of that, they still erred in understanding these previously mentioned ayaat, when they relied on their knowledge of the language only.

So based on this, it is obvious that whenever a person is knowledgeable of the Sunnah, he will be more likely to understand the Qur’aan and extract rulings from it, than someone who is ignorant about it. So how about the one who doesn’t rely on it or reference it at all? This is why from the principles that have been agreed upon by the people of knowledge is: to interpret the Qur’aan with the Qur’aan and the Sunnah,1 and then the sayings of the Companions, etc.

From this, we become aware of the misguidance of the scholars of rhetoric, past and present, and their opposition to the Salaf, in their Creed, not to mention their rulings. And it is their remoteness from the Sunnah and their knowledge of it, and their making their intellects and desires as judges for themselves with regard to the verses concerning Allaah’s Attributes. What is better than what has been stated in Sharh Al- ‘Aqeedah At-Tahaawiyyah [of Ibn Abil-‘Izz Al-Hanafee] (pg. 212, 4th Edition):

“How can someone who didn’t learn from the Book and the Sunnah, but rather just learned it from the views of so and so, speak about the fundaments of the Religion! And if he claims that he is taking it from the Book of Allaah, then he is not taking the interpretation of the Book of Allaah from the ahaadeeth of the Messenger. He doesn’t look into it (i.e. the Sunnah), nor does he look at what the Companions or those who succeeded them in goodness said, which has been conveyed to us by way of reliable narrators chosen by the critics (i.e. hadeeth scholars). For indeed, they did not convey the arrangement of the Qur’aan only, but rather they conveyed the arrangement as well as the meanings. They would not learn the Qur’aan like the children do (today), rather they would learn it along with its meanings. And whoever does not follow their path, then he is speaking based on his opinion. And whoever speaks from his opinion, and from what he thinks Allaah’s Religion is, not getting that from the Book, he is in fact sinning (!), even if he may be correct. Whereas whoever takes from the Book and the Sunnah, he is rewarded even if he errs. However, if he is correct, his reward is multiplied.”

Then he said (pg. 217):

“So it is an obligation to completely submit to the Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم, follow his orders, and meet his reports with acceptance and firm belief, without contradicting that by false notions that we consider “reasonable” or that constitute a misconception and doubt. Or that we put before it the views of men and the rubbish held in their minds. So we must single the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم out with regard to making him the judge, submitting to him, obeying him and complying with him, just as we single out the One who sent him in worship, humility, submissiveness, repentance and reliance (to Him).”

In summary: It is an obligation upon all of the Muslims to not differentiate between the Qur’aan and the Sunnah, with regard to the obligation of accepting both of them together and establishing Laws based on both of them. Indeed this is the guarantee that will prevent them from drifting to the right and the left, and from returning to deviation.

This is as the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم clearly stated:

“I have left two things for you, which you will never go astray so long as you adhere to them: The Book of Allaah and my Sunnah. These two will never separate from one another until they return to the Fountain.”

[Reported by Maalik and Al-Haakim with a sound chain of narration]

Footnotes:

[1] We do not say as is the custom amongst many of the people of knowledge: “We interpret the Qur’aan by the Qur’aan if there is no trace of it in the Sunnah, then we interpret it by the Sunnah.” This is due to what we will explain later on in the end of this treatise, when speaking about the (weak) hadeeth of Mu’aadh bin Jabal radhi Allaahu anhu.

Posted from al-ibaanah eBook:
 The Status of Sunnah in Islam – Shaik Nasiruddin Albanee

Ibn Al-Qayyim on which is better: reciting Quran slowly with contemplation or faster in greater amount?

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Translation and notes by Owais Al-Hāshimī
19 Ramaḍān 1437

Ibn Qayyim Al-Jawzīyah – Allāh have mercy on him – said while describing the way of the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم in reciting the Qurān:

People have differed as to which is best: tartīl (slower) recitation covering less (of the Qurān), or faster recitation with more covered; which of them is better? They had two opinions on this.

[Read or downlaod the Full article here]

The above google docs document embedded below

“Had We sent down this Qur’an upon a mountain, you would surely have seen it humbling itself” – Explained by Shaykh Uthaymeen

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The Second Ayah: His statement:

“Had We sent down this Qur’an upon a mountain, you would surely have seen it humbling itself and rending asunder by the fear of Allah” (Al-Hashr 59:21)

A mountain is among the hardest of what there is, the rocks by which the mountain becomes firm are exemplary in hardness. Allah, Exalted is He, says:

“When, after that, your hearts were hardened and became as stones or even worse in hardness” (Al- Baqara 2:74)

If this Qur’an were to be sent down upon the mountain, you would surely see this mountain humbling itself and cleaving out of the fear of Allah.

“Humbling” – that is, submissively.

And from its severe fright of of Allah, “Rending asunder” it cleaves and tears apart.

And this is sent down upon our hearts, and our hearts – except as Allah wills – contract and become hard, neither opening nor accepting.

As for those who believe, when the Ayat (of the Qur’an) are sent down to them, it increases their faith; but as for those who have a disease in their hearts; it adds filth to their filth; and it is Allah whose refuge is sought!

The meaning of that is that their hearts become more inflexible and hardened and it adds filth to their filth. We seek refuge in Allah from that

If this Qur’an were to be sent down to the mountain, it would cleave and humble itself due to the greatness of Allah’s Words sent down upon it

In this, there is evidence that the mountains have senses, because it humbles itself and cleaves. The matter is like that. The Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) said concerning Uhud: “This is Uhud, a mountain that loves us, and which we love.” [1]

With this Hadith, we also recognize the refutation against those who affirm that there are metaphors in the Qur’an. Those who always raise their flag, using this Ayah as proof:

“Then they found therein a wall wanting to collapse” (Al-Kahf 18:77)

Saying: “How can the wall want?” We say: Subhan Allah! The Knowing, and The Aware says : “Wanting to collapse” and you are saying that it does not want! Is this sensible?

It is not your right, after this, that you sav: “How could it want?”

This makes us ask ourselves: Are we given the knowledge of everything?

The answer is that we are not given knowledge, except a little.

It is not possible for us to object to the statement of the One Who knows the hidden and the witnessed: “Wanting to collapse” by saying: “The wall does not have an Iradah (a want)! And It does not want to collapse!”

This is one of the evils of metaphors, because it implies a negation of what the Qur’an affirms.

Is it not Allah, Exalted is He, Who says:

“The seven heavens and the earth and all that is therein, glorify Him and there is not a thing but glorifies His Praise. But you understand not their glorification” {Al-Israa’ 17: 44)

Do they glorify Him, without wanting to?

He says: “Tusabbih Lahu (they glorify Him)“: the Lam is to specify. Thus, it means sincerely. Is it imaginable to have sincerity without an Iradah (volition, objective, will)? Therefore, they will, and everything wills, for Allah says: “And there is not a thing but glorifies His Praise.” I think it is clear to all of us that this is one of the ways of expressing generality, because In (here) means Ma (not), which negates. Also, “A thing” is an indefinite pronoun used in the context of negation. “But glorifies His Praise” by that, it includes everything.

O my Muslim brother, if you see that your heart is not moved by the Qur’an, accuse yourself, because Allah has informed that if this Qur’an were to be sent down upon a mountain, it would cleave, and the Qur’an is recited to your heart, yet and it is not moved. We ask Allah to aid us, and you.

[1] Reported by Al-Bukhari (4422) and Muslim (1392) from Abu Humaid As-Sa’idi, may Allah be pleased with him.

Transcribed from: Al-‘Aqidah Al-Wasitiyyah – Shaykh Muhammad bin Salih Al-‘Uthaimin, Dar-us-Salam Publications, Vol-1 pg. 589-592

3 Types of Information in the Qur’an & Surah Al-Ikhlas – Dr Saleh as Saleh [Short Clip|En]

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Mp3: Points of Benefit in Salaat – 01- Surah al-Ikhlaas 112 – Dr Saleh as Saleh

Posted from: Pillar2 – Salah – Points of Benefit

Transcription of the Audio:

Bismillaah hir Rahman nir Raheem. Alhumdulillahi Rabbil Aalameen Wa sallallahu ala Muhammadin wa ala aalihi wa sahbihi wa sallam

Point of benifits, this is the begining of a series of benifits inshaa Allaahu ta’ala which we will try to convey from Allaah (Subhana wata’ala) to make them benefit for myself and for every one who listens to them.

Point of benefit – concerning Soorat Al-Ikhlas chapter 112 – In the hadeeth it came that it equates that it is equivalent to one third of the Qur’an. How?

This is because the Qur’an is either

1) The news about Allaah, His names and attributes, His actions

2)The second aspect is that – it is the news about the creation of Allaah as to that which will occur in the future and that which occured before in the past from the nations and so forth.

3) Thirdly, he Qur’an comprises commands and prohibitions.

And so this soorah Ikhlas talks about Allaah. So it is of the first news and thats why it is the third of the Qur’an. Because we know the Qur’an now is three thirds. First third news is about Allaah and the second contains the news about the creation of Allaah, the third contains commands and prohibitions. So it is equivalent to one third of the Qur’an.

This soorah Allaah choose it to speak of Himself, purely about Himself. So, Allaah did not mention in it anything except that which relates to Him and His attributes. And this soorah is a deliverance. It delivers it’s reciter from shirk and from the denial and negation.

This concludes the point of benefit. The first point of benefit. We ask Allaah (Subhana wata’ala) to bestow upon me and you the beneficial knowledge by which we increase our eeman and correct our deeds.

Transcribed by sister Sawdah.K, may Allaah reward her, ameen.

Ahmad Deedat’s “Al-Qur’an the Miracle of Miracles” Number 19 study – Al-Batiniyyah Al-Baha’iyyah

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Fatwas of the Permanent Committee>Group 2>Volume 2: `Aqidah>The Sects>Ahmad Deedat’s “Al-Qur’an the Miracle of Miracles”

Fatwa no. 19040

Q: Ahmad Deedat said in his book “Al-Qur’an the Miracle of Miracles” that Qur’an includes many references to the number 19 and its multiplications. He gave many examples and here are some of them: 
– The word “اسم” (name) is mentioned 19 times in the Qur’an. 
– The word “الله” (Allah) is mentioned 2698 (19 x 142) times in the Qur’an. 
– The word “الرحيم” (The Most Merciful) is mentioned 114 (19 x 6) times in the Qur’an. 
– The letter “ن” (Nun) is mentioned 133 (19 x 7) times in Surah Al-Qalam. 
He also made reference to the study conducted by Dr. Rashad Khalifah in his book “Al-Qur`an Taqdim Mar’y li-Mu`jizah”. Here are some examples of the points he raised: 
– The first Qur’anic revelation is composed of 19 words which include 76 (19 x 4) letters. 
– The first Surah (Qur’anic chapter) revealed in the Qur’an includes 19 Ayahs (Qur’anic verses) and 285 (19 x 15) letters, etc. 
Please give us your Fatwa (legal opinion issued by a qualified Muslim scholar) in this regard. 

Answer:

This study is among the fabricated falsities of a sect called Al-Batiniyyah Al-Baha’iyyah. It is based on glorifying the number 19. There is no doubt that this study is false, as it involves manipulating the Glorious Qur’an and distracting people from pondering  its true meanings.

  • This malicious group holds many false beliefs such as some of its leaders claiming prophethood.
  • Its followers believe in Hulul (a Sufi term meaning indwelling) and Ittihad (a Sufi claim of union with Allah),
  • deem Jihad (fighting in the Cause of Allah) to be unlawful and
  • call for the unification of religions plus many other things.

So, it is the duty of Muslims to beware of falling into this evil group and of being affected by its ideas or books.

We ask Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) to save us from their plotting and to protect Muslims from their evils, for He is All-Powerful.

May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.

The Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’
Chairman – Imaam Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz

Source : http://www.alifta.net

The Menstruating Woman or the One in Her Post-Partum Period Touching the mus-haf – Shaykh Bin Baaz

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Translated by Abu Abdullah Naasir Hussain حفظه الله
Source: http://www.binbaz.org.sa/node/16921

Video Courtesy: Bilal Nahim

Question:

Is a woman that is menstruating or in her post-partum period allowed to touch the mus-haf or read from it? Also, is the menstruating woman allowed to enter the masjid in order to gain religious knowledge?

Shaykh Abdulazeez bin Abdullah bin Baaz:

The menstruating woman is not allowed to sit in the masjid nor touch the mus-haf until she has become purified. However, if a need for her to touch it arose, such as in order to revise a verse (of the Qur’an) or something like that, there is no problem to do so by wearing gloves or by using some other barrier.

As for touching it without some sort of barrier, then no, she should not do that. This is because her impurity is major, like the one who is impure due to sexual relations (junub). The one who is ‘junub’ does not read or touch the mus-haf. As for the menstruating woman, she may recite [the Qur’an] during the whole period. So can the one in her post-partum period, according to the correct Opinion. She can read from her memory without touching the mus-haf unless she has to in order to revise a verse in which case it is alright if she touches it using a barrier.

Prohibition of Swaying during the Salat or while reciting the Qur’an or while making dhikr – alifta

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Bismillaah

Q: What is the ruling on some people who sway from right to left and backwards and forwards while reciting the Qur’an? Please advise, may Allah reward you.

A: Swaying while reciting the Qur’an is one of the habits that should be abandoned. It contradicts the etiquettes required when reciting the Qur’an. When reciting or listening to the Qur’an, a person should listen carefully and not play with things so that the listener and the reciter ponder over the meanings of the Qur’an and their hearts be submissive to Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He).

Scholars mentioned that this is one of the habits of the Jews when reciting their Book, and we are forbidden to imitate them.

May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.

The Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’

Member – Member – Member – Deputy Chairman – Chairman
Bakr Abu Zayd Salih Al-Fawzan `Abdullah ibn Ghudayyan `Abdul-`Aziz Al Al-Shaykh `Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz

http://www.alifta.com/Fatawa/FatawaChapters.aspx?View=Page&BookID=7&PageID=11266&back=true&languagename=en

Related Links:

The Ruling on Speaking while the Quraan is being Recited – Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen

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The Ruling on Speaking while the Quraan is being Recited from a tape/CD/recorder

Question:

What is the legislative ruling for talking during the recitation of the Qur’an in general gatherings, like if the Qur’an is recited from a tape and a group of people are talking, what is the ruling on this action?

Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih Al-‘Uthaymeen:

Allah the Most High states, {So when the Qur’an is recited, then listen to it and give it due attention so that you may receive mercy}. [Soorah Al-‘Araaf: 204]

Thus, if we have a recorder playing the sound of a reciter (while we are talking); either we turn off the recorder or we listen to him. However. remaining in our chatter and talking as if we only hear the sounds of humans, then this is contrary to having manners with the Quran.

So here I say, that either we turn off the recorder or listen to it. Even if one of them was listening and the others continued to chat, then that one individual lowers the sound so that no one hears it except him.

Translated by Abu Afnaan Muhammad ‘Abdullah حفظه الله
Video Courtesy: Bilal Nahim

Menses and Dhikr of Allaah & Recitation of the Qur’an – Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen

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Case: During Menses, it is not unlawful to celebrate Allah’s Praises (Saying Takbeer, Tasbeeh, and Tahmeed),[29] saying Bismillah before acting upon something (eating, drinking, etc..), reading Hadeeth, Islamic discussions, invocation upon Allah (Dua’), and listening to the recitation of Qur’an.

It has been confirmed by ‘Aisha (radhi Allaahu anha) that the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) used to: “lean on my lap and recite Qur’an while I was in menses” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim).[30]

Also Umm ‘Atiyya reported that she heard the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) saying: “The Unmarried young virgins and the mature girl who stay often screened or the young unmarried virgins who often stayscreened and the menstruating women should come out and participate in the good deeds as well as the religious gathering of the faithful believers but the menstruating women should keep away from the Musalla (praying place).” [31]

Case: The reciting of the Qur’an by a menstruating woman either via direct looking or silently (in her heart) without the actual uttering by the tongue is permissible.

The majority of the scholars are with the opinion that it is not prohibited for her to utter the Qur’anic recitation. Imam Bukhari, Ibn Jareer At- Tabaree and Ibn Al-Munthir, Imam Malik, and Imam Ash-Shaafi’ee (in one of his earlier sayings) are with the opinion that it is permissible for her to recite the Ayah (verse in the Qur’an).

Shayekul Islam Ibn Taymeeyah said: “Basically, there is no Sunnah to prevent her from reciting Qur’an. The “hadeeth” that: “A menstruating woman and the one who is in state of Jannabah [32] should not recite anything of the Qur’an”, is a weak hadeeth as agreed upon by the knowledgeable scholars of Hadeeth.

In fact women at the time of the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) used to have their monthly cycles of menses.Had the recitation of Qur’an been prohibited for them (as it is the case with Salat) then the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) would have made it clear to his Ummah (Islamic community) and his wives would have known about it and they would have dissipated this knowledge to the people. Because no one had related a prohibition by the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) about this issue, then it cannot be made unlawful especially when it is known that he (صلى الله عليه و سلم) did not prohibit it at the time when menses was very much present.

Accordingly, recitation by the tongue is not Haram (legally unlawful).[33] This author said: “having known the dispute between the scholars about this matter, then it is more proper for the menstruating woman not to recite Qur’an by the tongue except when it is necessary e.g. if she is a teacher or if she is preparing for an exam.”

Footnotes:

[29] Takbeer: saying Allahu Akbar (Allah is The Greatest); Tasbeeh: saying Subhana Allah (Most Glorified is Allah); Tahmeed: saying Al Hamdulil’lah: All Praise is due to Allah.
[30] Saheeh Al-Bukhari (Arabic-English) V.1, P.179, Hadeeth # 296.
[31] Agreed upon Hadeeth. In Saheeh Al-Bukhari (Arabic- English), V. 1, P. 192, Hadeeth # 321.
[32] Jannabah: Is the state in which a man (or a woman) has sexual discharge during sexual intercourse or in a dream, etc. In this state a Muslim is not allowed to pray or do other kinds of worships unless and until he (she) performs Ghusl (have a full shower) or do Tayammum if he/she cannot use water for any reason.
[33] Ibin Taymeeyah in Al-Fatawa (religious decrees) V. 26, P. 191.

Source : [eBook] Natural Blood of Women – Shaykh Uthaymeen – Translated by Dr Saleh As-Saleh

Quran – Points of Benefit – Dr Saleh as Saleh [Audio|En]

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01 Al Baqarah 001 to 029 Review of Benefits

02 Al Baqarah 030 to 040 Review of Benefits

03 Allaah is the Nur Light of the Heavens and the Earth

04 The 15 Aayaat of Prostration In the Quraan

05 Clarification Concerning Letters Beginning Certain Surahs

The Glorious Qur’aan – Dr. Saleh as Saleh [Audio|En]

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Based on the Lecture of Shaykh Ibn Baaz rahimahullaah

The Preservation of the Qur’an – by Dr. Saleh As-Saleh [Audio|En]

The Glorious Qur’aan – It Is Blessed In Its Influence, Its Results, Its Rewards – Dr. Saleh As-Saleh [Audio|En]

The Glorious Qur’aan – It Is a Proof For You or Against You – Dr. Saleh As-Saleh [Audio|En]

AbdurRahman.Org : Islamic Knowledge – Islam, Sunnah, Salafiyyah
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