Ruling on women delaying the ‘Isha’ Prayer until twelve at night – Fatwas of Nur Ala Al-Darb

Q 33: Is it permissible for women to pray the ‘Isha’ (night) Prayer after twelve o’clock at night? Is it disliked to perform it at eleven thirty, for instance ?

A: The time of ‘Isha’ Prayer extends until midnight. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: The time of ‘Isha’ Prayer extends until midnight. It is impermissible for women to delay the ‘Isha’ Prayer until midnight.

The length of the night varies, so if there are nine hours of night, for instance, then half of this is four hours and half, according to the time of sunset. If it is twelve hours, according to the time of sunset, then its half will be six hours and a half. After this that, it is not permissible for the sick or women to delay it until midnight.

As for men who are not ill, they are to pray with the people in the Masjid (mosque).However, if a man prays at home due to illness, he should pray before midnight and the same applies to the woman.

Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

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Ruling on women uncovering their hands and feet in Salah – Fatwas of Nur Ala Al-Darb

Q: Your Eminence, once we heard you mention that a woman who offers Salah with her hands and feet uncovered must repeat the whole Salah. Please clarify this matter for us, knowing that we are practicing Muslims abiding by Shari`ah (Islamic law). Since we have heard this ruling, my wife has been covering her feet and hands during Salah.

A: Scholars (may Allah be merciful to them) stated that a woman’s entire body is `Awrah, and thus she has to cover it all in Salah except the face. This is based on what was reported in the Hadiths from Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) that state that all a woman’s body is `Awrah.

Scholars differed as to whether the hands should be covered or not. Regarding the feet, the Jumhur stated that they should be covered.

As for the face, there is nothing wrong in uncovering it according to Ijma` (consensus of scholars). In fact, uncovering it in Salah is Sunnah unless there is an Ajnaby present. The correct view in this regard is that a woman when offering Salah must cover all her body except the face and hands. According to the correct scholarly opinion, it is not obligatory to cover her hands, but if she covers them, this is better in order to avoid the divergent opinions of scholars who hold that covering them is obligatory.

As for the feet, it is obligatory to cover them according to Jumhur because all a woman’s body is `Awrah and the feet are considered `Awrah. Thus, there is no reason to uncover them and they should be covered whether by wearing socks or long garments while offering Salah.

What I said and clarified more than once on the program “Nur `ala Al-Darb (Light on the Way)” is that it is obligatory for a woman to cover her entire body so that nothing of it shows. She should not wear something see-through. Her garments must be concealing, not showing her hair and body except the face; for it is Sunnah to uncover it if there is no Ajnaby present. As for the hands, scholars differed as to the ruling on them, but it is better to cover them. If a woman uncovers them, there is nothing wrong with this. As for the feet, as mentioned above, it is obligatory to cover them.

As for having to make up for the Salah, this is due to having violated one of the conditions of Salah by offering Salah without covering the feet. Therefore, if a woman offers Salah without covering her feet, she has to make up for it. But if she does so out of ignorance of the ruling, may Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) forgive her for what is past and she does not have to make up for the past Salahs.

It was authentically reported from the Prophet (peace be upon him) that: He saw a man offering Salah quickly. He called him and the man came and greeted him. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said to him, “Go back and offer Salah, for you have not offered Salah.” The man went back and offered Salah as he had offered it before, then he came to the Prophet (peace be upon him) and greeted him. The Prophet (peace be upon him) returned the greeting and said to him, “Go back and offer Salah, for you have not offered Salah.” The man again offered Salah as he had offered it before. When he had done this three times, he said: By the One Who sent you with the Truth as a Prophet, I cannot do any better than this. Please, teach me. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “When you go to offer Salah, perform Wudu’ (ablution) properly, face the Qiblah (Ka`bah-direction faced in Prayer), pronounce Takbir (saying: “Allahu Akbar [Allah is the Greatest]”), and then recite whatever you can of the Qur’an. Then bow until you are at ease in that position, then rise until you are standing erect, then prostrate until you are at ease in your prostration, then raise yourself and sit until you are at ease in sitting. Do this throughout the entire Salah.” (Agreed upon by Al-Bukhari and Muslim) The Prophet (peace be upon him) ordered this man to repeat the presently due Salah and did not order him to repeat any past Salah, because the man was ignorant about the ruling. It seemed that the man was accustomed to offering Salah in such a manner; but because he was ignorant about the ruling, the Prophet (peace be upon him) excused him from making up for the past Salahs and merely ordered him to repeat the Salah due at that time. This indicates that whoever is ignorant about a ruling of Salah then becomes informed about it has to only repeat the presently due Salah. As for past Salahs, they are waived because of ignorance. This is what is implied by the Hadith, for the Messenger (peace be upon him) did not order the man who offered Salah incorrectly to repeat his past Salahs due to ignorance and because this entails hardship.

In the same way, if a woman is used to offering Salah without covering her feet out of ignorance about the ruling, she does not have to repeat the past Salahs, in sha’a-Allah, according to the correct scholarly opinion. This is because she is excused because of ignorance. Thereafter, she has to abide by covering her feet and the rest of her body when offering Salah. This excludes the face and hands as mentioned above because they are not `Awrah according to scholars. But if she covers her hands to avoid the divergent opinions of scholars, this is good as stated above.

Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

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Men Shaking hands with Women – Permanent Committee

Q 10: What is the ruling on shaking hands with non-Muslim women? In the country where I live, it is the custom to treat men and women equally in everything.

A: It is not permissible for a man to shake hands with a woman, unless he is her Mahram (spouse or unmarriageable relative). The basis of this ruling is the fact that The hand of the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) never touched the hand of a (non-Mahram) woman.

It was authentically narrated in “Sahih Al-Bukhari”, “Musnad Ahmad”, and the “Sunan” of Al-Tirmidhy and Al-Nisa’y, that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “I do not shake hands with women.” This is the guidance of the Prophet (peace be upon him) who sets the best example for his Ummah (nation based on one creed). Allah (Exalted be He) says: Indeed in the Messenger of Allâh (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) you have a good example to follow for him who hopes for (the Meeting with) Allâh and the Last Day (Surah Al-‘Ahzab, 33:21)

Muslims should act upon the teachings that the Prophet (peace be upon him) brought and Allah has enjoined following, saying: And whatsoever the Messenger (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) gives you, take it; and whatsoever he forbids you, abstain (from it). One of the things that the Prophet (peace be upon him) taught was not to shake hands with women, and the basic principle regarding his sayings, deeds, and approvals is that they constitute the code of laws for the Muslim Ummah (nation based on one creed) unless there is an evidence for ruling out of this principle. We know of no such evidence in this case. May Allah grant us success! May peace and blessings of Allah be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions!

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Is there any difference between men and women with regard to the actions of Salah (Prayer)

Demonstrating that men and women are on an equal footing with regard to Salah

Q: Is there any difference between men and women with regard to the actions of Salah (Prayer) like raising hands to the ears and putting them over the chest?

A: The correct opinion maintains that the way in which women perform Salah is the same as that of men, as the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: Perform Salah as you see me perform it. and he (peace be upon him) made no exclusions for women. So men and women are equally addressed with the prescribed actions of Salah such as raising the hands, putting them over the chest, putting them on the knees when bowing down, and resting them on the ground opposite the shoulders or ears in Sujud (prostration). Similarly, they both have to recite Al-Fatihah (Opening Chapter of the Qur’an) and some verses of the Qur’an in both the first and second Rak`ahs (units of Prayer) of Zhuhr (Noon), `Asr (Afternoon), Maghrib (Sunset), `Isha’ (Night) and Fajr (Dawn) Prayers. Yet, only Al-Fatihah is to be recited in the third Rak`ah of Maghrib Prayer, and the third and fourth of Zhuhr, `Asr and `Isha’ Prayers. So women are on an equal footing with men in this regard.

Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb>Volume 9>Book of Salah>Completion of the chapter on the description of Salah>Demonstrating that men and women are on an equal footing with regard to Salah

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Shaytaan eats, drinks, gives and takes with his left hand – Fatwas of Permanent Committee

Q: What is the ruling on taking and giving things with the left hand; is it Haram (prohibited) or Makruh (reprehensible)?

A: According to the authentic reports, giving and taking things with the left hand is prohibited.

It is reported on the authority of Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said,

“Let one of you eat with his right hand, drink with his right hand, take with his right hand, and give with his right hand, for Satan eats with his left hand, drinks with his left hand, gives with his left hand, and takes with his left hand.” [1]

(Related by Ahmad and Ibn Majah, and this is his narration).

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

Footnotes:

[1] Ibn Majah, Sunan, Book on foods, no. 3266; and Ahmad ibn Hanbal, Musnad, vol. 2, p. 349.

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Jinn Stealing the money and jewellery – Permanent Committee

Q: Some time ago we started to have a problem. We began to lose money and jewelry that we put in different places in our house. It is worth mentioning that only my children, their families, and myself live in the three storey house in question. No strange person lives with us and we do not suspect any body. We have asked some of those who have experience of such case. Some of them said that Jinn (creatures created from fire) are involved while others mentioned that it is a member of our family who took the money or jewelry but they could not state the name of the perpetrator. It is noteworthy that all of the inhabitants of the concerned house fear Allah (Exalted be He), perform the Faridahs (obligatory acts) properly, do not harm any one of any thing, and do not commit Haram (prohibited) things. To give some examples for the problems that we are facing, one of my sons brought to the house a sum of ten thousand Riyals but after about two or three hours and before depositing the sum in the bank; he was taken by surprise when he discovered the loss of four thousand Riyal even though the total sum was in his same bag. This was the last problem we had as it took place one week ago. Another example is that during the blessed month of Ramadan one member of the family left one thousand Riyal at home and went out to pray Tarawih (special supererogatory night Prayer in Ramadan). When he came back he did not find the sum mentioned above though he read Ayat-ul-Kursy (the Qur’anic Verse of Allah’s Chair, Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:255) on his money and no body was in the house when he went out.

These are just a few of the many frequent cases of losing money and gold that we have experienced. Please provide us with your beneficial answer concerning this matter that causes huge troubles to us as we now keep our money and jewelry in one of the houses of my sons which is near to my house or in the bank.

We can not keep any sum in the house even though it is known to every body that people can not dispense with having at least a small sum at home to use for daily needs. Answer us please. May Allah benefit and reward you with the best.

A: In case it is proven that such money or jewelry are not taken by human beings either amongst the inhabitants of the house or other than them, it is – And Allah knows best – the work of the Satans among Jinn. They do such practices frequently by the permission of Allah (Exalted be He) and there is proof for this from the Qur’an and Sunnah.

Allah (Exalted be He) said regarding His Prophet Sulayman (Solomon, peace be upon him),

He said: “O chiefs! Which of you can bring me her throne before they come to me surrendering themselves in obedience?” A ‘Ifrît (strong one) from the jinn said: “I will bring it to you before you rise from your place (council).  (Surah Al-Naml, 27: 39)

Moreover, it is authentically reported on the authority of Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) who said:

Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) deputed me to keep Zakat-ul-Fitr (obligatory charity paid before the Festival of Breaking the Fast) of Ramadan. A comer came and started taking (stealthily) handfuls of the foodstuff (of Zakat-ul-Fitr). I took hold of him and said, “By Allah, I will take you to Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him).” He said, “Leave me, for I am needy and have many dependents, and I am in great need.” I released him, and in the morning Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) asked me, “O Abu Hurayrah! What did your prisoner do yesterday?” I said, “O Allah’s Messenger! The person complained of being needy and of having many dependents, so, I pitied him and let him go.” Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said, “Indeed, he told you a lie and he will be coming again.” I believed that he would show up again as Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) had told me. So, I waited for him watchfully. When he (showed up and) started stealing handfuls of foodstuff, I caught hold of him again and said, “I will definitely take you to Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him). He said, “Leave me, for I am very needy and have many dependents. I promise I will not come back again.” I pitied him and let him go. In the morning Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) asked me, “O Abu Hurayrah, What did your prisoner do.” I replied, “O Allah’s Messenger! He complained of his great need and of so many dependents, so I took pity on him and set him free.” Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said, “Verily, he told you a lie and he will return.” I waited for him attentively for the third time, and when he (came and) started stealing handfuls of the foodstuff, I caught hold of him and said, “I will surely take you to Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) as it is the third time you promise not to return, yet you break your promise and come.” He said, “Let me go and I will teach you some words with which Allah will benefit you.” I asked, “What are they?” He replied, “Whenever you go to bed, recite Ayat-ul-Kursy (the Qur’anic Verse of Allah’s Chair, Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:255): Allâh! Lâ ilâha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He), Al-Hayyul-Qayyum (the Ever Living, the One Who sustains and protects all that exists). (If you do so), Allah will appoint a guard for you who will stay with you and no Satan will come near you until morning.” (Abu Hurayrah or another narrator added) that they (the Companions) were very keen to do good deeds… The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “He really spoke the truth, although he is an absolute liar. Do you know whom you were talking to, these three nights, O Abu Hurayrah?” I said, “No.” He said, “It was Satan.” (Hadith Mu`allaq (a Hadith missing link in the chain of narration, reported directly from the Prophet) related by Al-Bukhari in a manner hinting to its authenticity). [1]

[1] Al-Bukhari, vol. 3, p. 63-64, vol. 4, p. 92, vol. 6, p. 104 (Mu’allaq narration); Al-Nasa’y, Amal Al-Yawm wa Al-Laylah, pp. 532-533, no. 959; Ibn Khuzaymah, vol. 4, pp. 91-92, no. 2424; Al-Bayhaqy, Al-Dala’il, vol. 7, pp. 107-108. See Taghliq Al-Ta`liq, Ibn Hajr, vol. 3, pp. 295-296.

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

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Stories of sorcerers claiming treating the incurable diseases – Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

115- Ruling on those who claim to be mediators between mankind and Jinn for the sake of treating incurable diseases

Q: I heard that there is a woman who deals with Jinn (creatures created from fire). She was told by Jinn that she will be a good mediator between mankind and Jinn in order to treat incurable diseases that physicians failed to treat. The woman is only a mediator, while the Jinn are the ones who will prescribe medicines and perform operations. But people cannot see them. What is the ruling on this regard?

A: There is no basis for what you mentioned and such statements can not be relied upon. The tales of Jinn, very old women and those who serve the Jinn are unauthentic and can not be relied upon. It is not permissible to deem as authentic the sayings of old women, old men, youth or any other person who reports from the Jinn. One should guard himself against using or serving them. This is because if the Jinn use him, they will draw him to Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship) if they are unbelievers. Moreover, there is no certain way whereby we can distinguish the believer from the unbeliever. They may be hypocrites who deceive Mu’mins (believers) by these acts. This is because one can not discern their affairs or deal with them openly in order to know their status and morals from authentic sources to distinguish between the reliable and the unreliable ones.

Briefly, there is great ambiguity and difference in morals and attributes between us and them whereby we can not know their realities. Whoever is a believer among them, we supplicate to Allah (Exalted be He) to grant him success and guidance. But we can not trust or rely upon them in treating patients, counseling with them or any thing else as this leads to claiming to know the Ghayb (the Unseen). Man may be tried by dealing with the Jinn and thinks that he knows the Ghayb through the Jinn. He will be, in this case, like those people about whom Allah (may He Glorified and Exalted) says: ‘And verily, there were men among mankind who took shelter with the males among the jinn, but they (jinn) increased them (mankind) in sin and transgression’. Man will be in great danger if he deals with the Jinn. They may lead him to commit Shirk, Bid`ah (innovation in religion) and sins. Thus, man can cause harm to himself or to others unknowingly. Consequently, it is not permissible to deal with them for the sake of curing or any other purpose.

If one knows or deals with any one of the Jinn, he has to call him to worship Allah alone, teach him goodness, call him to Tawhid (belief in the Oneness of Allah) and obedience to Allah (Exalted be He). One should also advise him to teach others goodness and obedience to Allah (Exalted be He). But man should not trust them or ask them anything for people because they may give him something that brings harm to people. They may give him something good and then deceive him. Briefly, he who deals with them faces great danger because one cannot certainly discern their affairs because they see you and you cannot see them. They may conceal many things from you. They may also claim to be Muslims while they are hypocrites. They may deal with you in order to achieve certain purposes and then do whatever they desired when their purposes are achieved. If you deal with them, you will be in danger. Therefore, you have to avoid them except for the sake of calling them to Allah (Exalted be He), informing, and guiding them to the truth.

Q: There is a woman called Masasah (sucker) who lives in a village. Men and women used to visit her for treatment especially those who suffer diseases in their abdomens, back or chest. Every one pays her one hundred Riyals. If a man suffers pains in his abdomen, she makes him lie down on his back and sucks his abdomen with her mouth. This means that she puts her mouth on the place of pain and sucks like the process of cupping without using anything. Then, she ejects from her mouth a pebble, vein or anything else. Is it permissible to do this? May Allah reward you well!

A: It seems that this woman is a sorcerer who deceives people by these acts. People think that she has knowledge and extraordinary abilities that are unknown to physicians as she sucks a man’s abdomen and then ejects pebbles and the like from her mouth. This woman may use the Jinn in order to trick people by showing them that she brings something out of their abdomens while there is nothing. She only deceives people’s sight as was done by the sorcerers during the confrontation between Musa (Moses) and Pharaoh. She might also have something in her mouth like pebbles upon visiting the patient. Then, she ejects it when she sucks his abdomen in order to convince people that this thing comes out of his abdomen. We believe that it is not permissible to visit or seek treatment with this woman and others like her. This is because this woman and those like her are sorcerers who deceive people with lies or with using Jinn and things that were prohibited by Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) as Shirk and other evil things that she does with patients for the sake of curing them. Briefly, it appears that this woman is a liar and a sorcerers who uses Jinn. Therefore, it is not permissible to visit her or those like her.

It was authentically reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: He who visits a diviner and asks him about anything, his Salahs (Prayers) extending to forty nights will not be accepted. This Hadith was reported by Muslim in his Sahih.

It was reported in another narration: He who visits a diviner or a fortuneteller and believes him in what he says disbelieves what was revealed to Muhammad (peace be upon him).

This women and those like her lie and invent things that are baseless. These false things are told by Jinn in order to deceive people and lead them astray without knowing the truth. Allah is the One sought for help.

Q: I have a story that I desire to tell you about in order to give me an interpretation or advice about it. My neighbor’s daughter who is eighteen years old was sick. She had a psychological disorder. Her father brought her to physicians, but they did not achieve any progress. Then, he brought her to diviners and sorcerers who told him that she was touched by Jinn and they would treat her. The girl stayed with them for one day only. Then, she returned home as she had completely recovered from her disease. She now leads a normal and tranquil life with her father. What is the ruling on this regard? May Allah reward you well!

A: This may be done by Jinn and their supporters. They may cause harm to a woman or a man in order to make him feel sick. Then, if the guardian of the patient visits them and asks them for help, they will help him and remove the causes of diseases they have done. They do this in order to deceive people and lead them to Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship) and glorifying, resorting, seeking help and invoking Jinn and devils. All these acts are from evil acts and the machinations plotted by devils. Therefore, a Muslim should not be deceived by these things. He should not visit, resort or ask those people.

It was authentically reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: He who visits a diviner and asks him about anything, his Salah (Prayer) extending to forty nights will not be accepted. And: He (peace be upon him) said when he was asked about diviners: “Do not visit them!” He said: “They are nothing.” And: He who visits a diviner or a fortuneteller and believes him in what he says disbelieves what was revealed to Muhammad (peace be upon him). And: He is not from us; who performs sorcery or has it performed for him, performs divination or has it performed for him or sees an evil omen or has it seen for him. All these acts, machinations and deception do not give people an excuse to visit them.

People should avoid them and seek cure from these diseases through legal remedies which includes reciting the Qur’an. Reciting the Qur’an is a remedy for diseases caused by Jinn and others. A Mu’min (believer) should recite for the patient and supplicate to Allah (Exalted be He) to grant him cure and recovery. Then, harm will be removed by Allah’s Will. This remedy was tried by the Imams (initiator of a School of Jurisprudence) and scholars in past and modern ages and was a cause of cure and remedy.

If one died because of this disease, it would be his moment of death. Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) predestined for him to die because of this disease that they think to be the handwork of sorcerers and Jinn. Therefore, one should not prefer his temporal desire for obtaining a cure at their hands through something that causes harm in his religion and incurs Allah’s wrath upon him to what pleases Allah (Exalted be He) and brings about His satisfaction. Therefore, one should follow legal instructions and remedies. If he dies, he will die according to his appointed moment of death. This is what should man think and do. He is not permitted to visit sorcerers or diviners out of fear of death. All these acts are great falsehoods, mischief in the earth, defiance of religion and aggression against what is legislated by Allah (Glorified be He). Allah is the One sought for help.

Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb: alifta.com – Volume 3 > Chapter on fortunetellers and their likes

Cure for obsessive Shaytaanic insinuations in Ibaadah – Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

Q: The questioner says that she has a sister who complains about obsessive insinuations, especially while performing ablution. She requests His Eminence Shaikh to guide her to the best way which, by Allah’s Permission, will relieve her from this anxiety.  (Question no. 1, tape no. 247)

A: Many people, men and women, complain about the obsessive misgivings. The treatment of this disease is to seek refuge with Allah (Most Exalted be He) from Satan, because it is one of his manifold wicked insinuations and one of his plots.

It is well-known that Satan is the open enemy of Allah, about whom He (Most Exalted be He) says:

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

He (Most Exalted and Sublime be He) also says:

“And if an evil whisper from Shaitân (Satan) tries to turn you away (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) (from doing good), then seek refuge in Allâh. Verily, He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower”. (Surah Fussilat, 41: 36)

Therefore, the treatment of this disease is to seek refuge with Allah from Satan, the outcast, while performing ablution, during prayer and in all other situations. Whenever one feels the evil misgivings, he should seek refuge with Allah from Satan by saying: I seek refuge with Allah from Satan, the outcast, and one should have strong will and sincerity to get rid of these misgivings and should have hope in Allah (Most Exalted and Sublime be He).

In order to fight against this enemy, one need strong will and sincerity, and be sure that no one saves man from Satan except Allah, Who is All-Omnipotent to do all things (Most Exalted be He). Therefore, it is the duty of all Muslims, men and women, to resort to Allah (Most Exalted be He) with sincerity and seek His Help to save them from this enemy whenever they feel these evil misgivings and in all other situations.

The believer should seek help and support from Allah (Most Exalted be He) by saying: O Lord, protect me from Satan and from his insinuations! O Lord, keep me away from his evil! O Allah, save me from his evil temptations and wicked thoughts. One should ask his Lord and seek help from Allah, and Allah (Most Exalted be He) will protect him so long as the servant is sincere in his supplication. Allah (Most Exalted be He) says: Call upon Me; I will respond to you. Allah does not break His Promise (Most Exalted and Sublime be He). However, man might not be serious in seeking help from Allah, and thus become heedless and call upon Allah without sincerity. Thus, there has to be sincerity and true desire in seeking the protection of Allah (Most Exalted be He). The person should resort to Allah and wholly submit himself to Him with complete faithfulness and hope in order to gain protection from this open enemy.

If someone performs ablution he should not repeat his ablution due to devilish insinuations. Likewise, he should not repeat his prayer because of such insinuations. He should full trust that his ablution and prayer are valid and should not repeat any part of them due to Satan’s insinuations. For, if he inclines to obey Satan and repeats ablution or the prayer, then the enemy of Allah will prompt him with more evil temptations. Thus, whenever you perform ablution and you are confident that you have fulfilled all its requirements, then do not let doubt creep into your heart. Fear Allah and do not repeat some or all of its acts. Do not respond to the misgivings of Satan. The same should be done with regard to prayer which you should complete with no insinuations as having made mistakes therein. Do the same thing in every similar situation in which you withstand the misgivings of the enemy of Allah and beat him.

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Most important books regarding the Stratagems of the Shaytaan and their cures – Permanent Committee

Q: What are the most important books that discuss the secrets of the souls and the treatment of wild whims, and who are the most important authors in this respect?

A: One of the best books in this respect is the one written by Ibn Al-Jawzy (may Allah be merciful to him). He was a preacher who thoroughly explored the souls. He wrote a book entitled “Talbis Iblis” (Entanglements of the Devil) in which he discussed the ways that the devil uses to entangle humans in whims and suspicions. Ibn Al-Jawzy (may Allah be merciful to him) really excelled in this book.

Moreover, there is a book entitled “Ighathat-ul-Lahfan min Maka’id Al-Shaytan (Relieving the Distressed from the Stratagems of the Devil) by Ibn Al-Qayyim (may Allah be merciful to him), which discusses a valuable subject. It is summarized by Shaykh `Abdullah ibn `Abdul-Rahman Ababtin in “Mukhtasar Al-Ighathah (The Summary of the Relief of the Distressed)” and many other books.

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

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Turning one’s head during Salah to seek refuge (in Allah) from Shaytaan – Fatwas of Ibn Baz

 

Bismillaah

Question : A Muslim sister asks about the ruling on turning one’s head during Salah to seek refuge in Allah from the devil called Khanzab (a devil that distracts a servant at the time of prayer)?

A: There is no harm in turning the head during Salah seeking refuge in Allah from the accursed Satan when casting his insinuations. Rather, it is desirable when there is a dire need for it on condition that it is done by moving one’s head only, because the Prophet (peace be upon him) ordered ‘Uthman ibn Abul-‘As Ath-Thaqafi (may Allah be pleased with him) to do so when he complained to the Prophet about the insinuating thoughts that Satan casts during prayers, so he ordered him to spit (dryly) to his left side three times and seek refuge in Allah from Satan.[1] He did so and Allah granted him recovery.

As for turning one’s head during performing Salah without a due reason, this is undesirable. When the Prophet (peace be upon him) was asked about this, he said: It is a quick stealing by which Satan takes away (a portion) from the prayer of a person (By making him glance left and right). May Allah guide us all to what pleases Him! He is All-Hearing and Responsive.

Foot Notes:

[1] Related by Muslim, Book on greetings, Chapter on seeking refuge from the insinuating thoughts of Satan during Salah, no. 4083

General Chairman of the Departments of Scholarly Research, Ifta’, Da`wah, and Guidance

Fatwas of Ibn Baz

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The formulae of Allaah’s Remembrance prescribed after Salah – Imam Ibn Baz

Majmoo’ Fataawa wa Maqaalaat Mutanawwi’ah li Samaahat
al-Shaykh ‘Abd al- ‘Azeez ibn ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Baaz, Vol. 11, pp. 188-190 – alifta.net

From ‘Abdul ‘Aziz Bin ‘Abdullah Ibn Baz to those who receive this among Muslims. May Allah guide all Muslims and increase their knowledge and faith, amen!

As-salamu ‘alaykum warahmatullah wabarakatuh (May Allah’s Peace, Mercy, and Blessings be upon you!) It gives me pleasure to remind my Muslim brothers that –

It is of the Sunnah for a Muslim to say after each obligatory Salah, whether one is the Imam (the one who leads the congregational Salah), Ma’mum (a person being led by an Imam in Prayer) or Mufarid (a person who performs prayer alone) to say, three times

أَسْـتَغْفِرُ الله 
“Astagfir Allah”
[#1]
(I ask Allah forgiveness)

 and then say,

اللّهُـمَّ أَنْـتَ السَّلامُ ، وَمِـنْكَ السَّلام ، تَبارَكْتَ يا ذا الجَـلالِ وَالإِكْـرام

“Allahumma Anta Al-Salam Wa Minka Al-Salam, Tabarakta Wa Ta’alayta Ya-dhal-Jalali Wal-Ikram” [#1]

(O Allah, You are Al-Salam [the One Who is free from all defects and deficiencies] and from You is all peace, blessed are You, Possessor of majesty and honor!)

If one is Imam, one should turn facing the people. The Imam, those praying behind him, or a person offering Salah individually should say,

لَا إِلهَ إِلَّا اللهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ، لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَلَهُ الْحَمْدُ وَهُوَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ

لَا حَوْلَ وَلَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِاللهِ، لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللهُ، وَلَا نَعْبُدُ إِلَّا إِيَّاهُ، لَه النِّعْمَةُ وَلَهُ الْفَضْلُ وَلَهُ الثَّنَاءُ الْحَسَنُ، لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللهُ مُخْلِصِينَ لَهُ الدِّينَ وَلَوْ كَرِهَ الْكَافِرُونَ

 اللَّهُمَّ لَا مَانِعَ لِمَا أَعْطَيْتَ، وَلَا مُعْطِيَ لِمَا مَنَعْتَ، وَلَا يَنْفَعُ ذَا الْجَدِّ مِنْكَ الْجَدُّ

Laa ‘ilaaha ‘illallaahu wahdahu laa shareeka lahu, lahul-mulku, wa lahul-hamdu wa Huwa ‘alaa kulli shay ‘in Qadeer. Laa hawla wa laa quwwata ‘illaa billaahi, laa ‘ilaaha ‘illallaahu, wa laa na’budu ‘illaa ‘iyyaahu, lahun-ni’matu wa lahul-fadhlu wa lahuth-thanaa’ul-hasanu, laa ‘ilaaha ‘illallaahu mukhliseena lahud-deena wa law karihal-kaafiroon. Allaahumma laa mani’a limaa ‘a’tayta, wa laa mu’tiya limaa mana’ta, wa laa yanfa’u thal-jaddi minkal-jadd. [#2]

(None has the right to be worshipped except Allah, alone, without any partner. To Allah belong all sovereignty and praise. He is Omnipotent over all things. There is no might nor power except with Allah. None has the right to be worshipped except Him. We worship none but Him. To Allah all favor, grace, and praise are due. None has the right to be worshipped except Allah and we are sincere in faith and devotion to Him although disbelievers detest it. Oh Allah! Oh Allah! None can prevent what You willed to give and none can grant what You have willed to prevent, and no wealth or majesty can benefit anyone, as from You is all wealth and majesty).

After offering Maghrib (Sunset) Prayer and Fajr (Dawn) Prayer one should say along with what is mentioned previously,

After completing the prayer:

لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللهُ وَحَدْهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ، لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَلَهُ الْحَمْدُ يُحْيِي وَيُمِيتُ، وَهُوَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ

Laa ‘ilaaha ‘illallaahu wahdahu laa shareeka lahu, lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu yuhyee wa yumeetu wa Huwa ‘alaa kulli shay’in Qadeer

[None has the right to be worshipped but Allah alone, Who has no partner. His is the dominion and His is the praise . He brings life and He causes death , and He is Able to do all things.]

After that, one is to say each of the following supplications thirty three times;

(a) “Subhana Allah” (Glory is to Allah),

(b) “Al-Hamdu Lillah” (praise is due to Allah) and

(c) “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Great),

and then complete the hundred by saying,

لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللهُ وَحَدْهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ، لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَلَهُ الْحَمْدُ يُحْيِي وَيُمِيتُ، وَهُوَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ

Laa ‘ilaaha ‘illallaahu wahdahu laa shareeka lahu, lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu yuhyee wa yumeetu wa Huwa ‘alaa kulli shay’in Qadeer

It is recommended for the Imam, Ma’mum, and Munfarid to recite these supplications audibly after each obligatory Salah in a low voice without disturbing others.

It is authentically reported in the two Sahih on the authority of Ibn ‘Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them) that raising one’s voice in supplication after concluding the obligatory Salah was during the time of the Prophet (peace be upon him). Ibn ‘Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them) said, “I used to know when they finished the Salah by this (supplications as they were said aloud) if I heard them.” 

[Al-Bukhari, Sahih, Book on Adhan, no. 841; Muslim, Sahih, Book on Masjids and places for Salah, no. 583; Al-Nasaa’y, Sunan, Book on Sujud-ul-Sahw, no. 1335; Abu Dawud, Sunan, Book on Salah, no. 1003; and Ahmad ibn Hanbal, Musnad, vol. 1, p. 367.’]

However, it is not permissible to say these supplications collectively. Each worshipper should recite them individually without observing the voice of others, because reciting supplications collectively is Bid’ah and has no basis in the divine Shari’ah (law) of Allah.

It is recommended for Imam, Ma’mum, and Munfarid to recite

Ayat-ul-Kursy (the Qur’anic Verse of Allah’s Foot stool, Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:255[#3]  inaudibly.

After that,

Surah-Al-Iklas (the Qur’an, Surah 112),

Surah-Al-Falaq (the Qur’an, Surah 113), and

Surah-Al-Nas (the Qur’an, Surah 114)

inaudibly after each obligatory Salah and repeat them three times after the Maghrib (Sunset) and Fajr (Dawn) Salahs. [#4]

This is preferable, for the authenticity of what we have mentioned above.

May Allah’s Peace and Blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, His companions, and those who follow him rightfully till the Day of Judgment.

The Grand Mufty of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 
Chairman of the Departments of Scholarly Research, Ifta’, Da`wah, and Guidance
24/10/1414 A.H.

PS: [AbdurRahman.Org] Du’aa transliterations slightly corrected for the better pronunciation

Foot Notes : (added by AbdurRahman.Org)

[#1] Sahih  Muslim 1/414

[#2] Sahih  Muslim 1/415

[#3] An-Nasaai, ‘Amalul Yawm-Yawm wal-Layl (hadith No.100), also Ibn As-Sunni (n.121). See also Al-Albanee Sahihul-Jaami As-Sagheer 5/339 and Silsilatul-Ahadeeth As-Saheehah 2/697 (no.972)

[#4] Abu Dawood 2/86, An-Nasaai 3/68, see also Al-Albanee, Sahih At-Tirmidhi 2/8.

Meaning of the Ayah “…and follow not the footsteps of Shaitan” – Permanent Committee

The Ayah “…and follow not the footsteps of Shaitan”

The second question of Fatwa no. 20703

Q 2: Allah (Exalted be He) says: and follow not the footsteps of Shaitan (Satan). What are the footsteps of Satan? Is looking at non-Mahram women (not a spouse or unmarriageable relatives) in real life or on satellite channels or talking to them on the phone or in the markets or flirting with them considered as following the footsteps of Satan? Is reading romantic books and art and fashion magazines with pictures of actresses and beautiful and charming celebrities considered as following the footsteps of Satan? What is our duty towards a person who does so? May Allah benefit us and you!

A: Following the footsteps of Satan as Ibn Kathir mentioned in his book in which he explained the meanings of the Qur’an (Tafsir Ibn Kathir vol. 1, p. 204) that Qatadah and Al-Suddy said,

“All sins are footsteps of Satan.”

`Ikrimah said,

“They are the incitements of Satan.”

Mujahid said,

“Satan’s footsteps are his mistakes and sins.”

Abu Mijlaz said,

“Satan’s footsteps are vows involving sins.

Al-Qurtuby (in Tafsir Al-Qurtuby vol. 1, P. 308) said, “I said:

The correct view is that the utterance is general and covers all the sins and Bid`ahs (innovations in religion) but not the acts of Sunnah (commendable acts) nor the rulings of Shari`ah (Islamic law).”

Subsequently, it is clear that the footsteps of Satan apply to all the acts that involve disobedience to Allah (Exalted be He). So, whoever disobeys the orders of Allah (Exalted be He) and His Messenger (peace be upon him), violates the rulings of Shari`ah, and commits things which Allah (Exalted be He) has prohibited is disobeying Him.

All that is mentioned in the question is considered as footsteps and tricks of Satanabout which Allah (Exalted be He) says: He [Shaitân (Satan)] commands you only what is evil and Fahshâ (sinful), and that you should say against Allâh what you know not. Anyone who commits any such sins has to turn to Allah (Exalted be He) in sincere repentance and never do any such evil deeds again. Whoever knows any person who commits any such deeds has to advise them gently and leniently and explain the evil consequences of their bad deeds and encourage them to do good deeds and draw closer to Allah (Exalted be He) through supererogatory acts of worship and performance of Salah (Prayer) in congregation as Allah (Exalted be He) and His Messenger have ordered; because Salah prohibits immorality and wrongdoing.

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’

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Is it permissible for the Muslim to curse Shaytaan ? – Permanent Committee

Fatwa no. 19753

Q: A man heard me cursing Satan one day and criticized me for that. He said it is prohibited to curse Satan, because cursing him makes him haughty. Is this correct? Please, advise. May Allah reward you!

A: When Satan incites a Muslim to sin or whispers (suggests) to him, it is permissible for him to seek refuge and protection in Allah Alone from Satan. Also, it is permissible for the Muslim who fears the harm of Satan’s plot, or that of his supporters, to seek the help of Allah to ward off Satan’s evil and harm. He should often recite Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah) so that Allah will rebuke him and thwart his plot in a disgraceful manner.

And Allah (Exalted be He) states: “And if an evil whisper comes to you from Shaitân (Satan), then seek refuge with Allâh. Verily, He is All-Hearer, All-Knower.” (Surah Al-A`raf, 7: 200)

He (Exalted be He) says: And say: “My Lord! I seek refuge with You from the whisperings (suggestions) of the Shayâtîn (devils).” (Surah Al-Mu’minun, 23: 97)

“And I seek refuge with You, My Lord! lest they should come near me.” (Surah Al-Mu’minun, 23: 98)

It was authentically reported from the Prophet (peace be upon him) that: “when getting up to pray, he (peace be upon him) used to say: I seek refuge in Allah the All-Hearing and All-Knowing from the accursed Satan , from his Hamz (evil whispers) and his Nafkh (arrogance) and his Nafth (spell and in that Hadith scholars interpreted Nafth as Poetry).” [1]

It was also compiled by Imam Ahmad in his Musnad (Hadith compilation) Vol. 5 p. 59 on the authority of Abu Tamimah Al-Hujaimy that a man who was riding behind the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

“One day as I was riding behind the Prophet on a donkey, it stumbled and I shouted, “Let Satan perish!” The Prophet said, “Do not say ‘let Satan perish,’ for if you say so he will feel important and haughty and he will say, ‘I thwarted him with my power!’ Instead say, ‘In the name of Allah,’ so that he will (feel humiliated and) be smaller than a fly” [2]. A similar narration was related by Abu Dawud in his Sunan (Hadith compilations classified by jurisprudential themes).

It was mentioned in the book of Al-Samt wa Adab Al-Lisan (Silence and Etiquettes of the Tongue) written by Ibn Abu Al-Dunia p. 205 on the authority of Mujahid (may Allah be merciful with him) saying:

“Seldom do people mention Satan but he attends to them; when he hears someone invoking curses on him, he says, ‘Indeed, you invoke curses on a cursed being.’ There is nothing more breaking to Satan’s back than saying ‘there is no deity worthy of worship but Allah.'” This is the effective cure for fending off Satan’s harm from man, since the evil of the rebellious Jinn (creatures created from fire) cannot be removed except by that.

Allah cursed Satan in His Book repeatedly when he became arrogant and refused to carry out the order of Allah to prostrate before Adam in honor and respect. As a result, Allah described Satan as an accursed outcast. He has been expelled from the mercy and Paradise of Allah on the Day of Resurrection.

Allah (Exalted be He) states:

They (all those who worship others than Allâh) invoke nothing but female deities besides Him (Allâh), and they invoke nothing but Shaitân (Satan), a persistent rebel! Allâh cursed him. And he [Shaitân (Satan)] said: “I will take an appointed portion of your slaves. [Surah Al-Nisa’, 4: 117-118]

He may He be Exalted) stated: (Allâh) said: “Then, get out from here, for verily, you are Rajîm (an outcast or a cursed one).” [Tafsîr At-Tabarî] “And verily, the curse shall be upon you till the Day of Recompense (i.e. the Day of Resurrection).” [Surah Al-Hijr, 15: 34-35]

The Messenger (peace be upon him) cursed Satan in his Salah (prayer) when he (the Prophet) resisted him and wanted to harm and destroy him. It was related by Imam Muslim in his Sahih (authentic) Book of Hadith on the authority of Abu Al-Darda’ (may Allah be pleased with him) saying:

Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) stood up (to pray) and we heard him say:” I seek refuge in Allah from you.” Then said: “I curse you with Allah’s curse” three times, then he stretched out his hand as though he was taking hold of something. When he finished the prayer, we said: Messenger of Allah, we heard you say something during the prayer which we have not heard you say before, and we saw you stretch out your hand. He replied: Allah’s enemy Satan came with a flame of fire to put it in my face, so I said three times: “I seek refuge in Allah from you.” Then I said three times: “I curse you with Allah’s full curse.” But he did not retreat (on any one of these) three occasions. Thereafter, I meant to seize him. I swear by Allah that had it not been for the supplication of my brother Solomon he would have been bound, and made an object of sport for the children of Madinah. [3]

Therefore, it is permissible for the Muslim to curse Satan when he comes to harm him or tries to dissuade him from obedience to Allah. Nonetheless, he should not give up seeking refuge in Allah from Satan, always reciting Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah), Bismillah [In the Name of Allah] or other Adhkar (invocations), which are permissible under the Shari`ah (Islamic law). This guarantees protection of the Muslim against the evil of Satan.Based on the Ayah (Qur’anic verse) and Hadiths mentioned above, a Muslim should not take to cursing Satan needlessly as a form of following the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him).

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

Footnotes:

[1] Al-Tirmidhy, Sunan, Book on Salah, no. 242; Abu Dawud, Sunan, Book on Salah, no. 775; Ahmad ibn Hanbal, Musnad, vol. 3, p. 50; and Al-Darimy, Sunan, Book on Salah, no. 1239

[2] Ahmad, vol. 5, pp. 59, 71, and 365; Abu Dawud, vol. 5, p. 260, no. 4982; Al-Nasa*y, `Amal Al-Yawm Wa Al-Laylah, pp. 373-374, nos. 554-555, `Abdul Razzaq, vol. 11, p. 424, no. 20899; Al-Tahawy, Mushkal Al-Athar, vol. 1, p. 343, no. 368; Al-Tabarany, vol. 1, p. 194, no. 516; Al-Hakim, vol. 4, p. 292; Ibn Abu `Asim, Al-Ahad Wa Al-Mathany, vol. 2, p. 306, no. 1068; Ibn Al-Sunni, `Amal Al-Yawn Wa Al-Laylah, p. 240, no. 509; and Al-Baghawy, vol. 12, p. 354, no. 3384.’

[3] Muslim, vol. 1, p. 385, no. 542; Al-Nasa’y, vol. 3, p. 13, no. 1215; Ibn Hibban, vol. 5, pp. 316-317, no. 1979; Abu `Awanah, vol. 2, p. 144; Abu Nu`aym, vol. Dalail Al-Nubuwwah, vol. 2, p. 475, no. 266, verified by `bdul Barr `Abbas; and Al-Bayhaqy, vol. 2, p. 264.’

Fatwas of Permanent Committee

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Charlatanry : The Awliya’ of Allah and the Awliya’ of Satan – Permanent Committee

(6) Conjuration

Q: Among us are some members of a dervish order; one of them is a relative of ours. He is an illiterate man, not gifted by any agility or wit, but he drank a sip of water from the hands of the head of this order to be able to perform charlatan tricks and sorcery before the people. He can strike his stomach with every cutting weapon such as daggers, swords, pieces of wood, bullets, etc. He is neither a practicing Muslim, nor does he perform the obligatory acts of worship enjoined by Allah such as Salah (Prayer), Sawm (Fasting) and others.

Please clarify the opinion of Islam regarding this matter. What is the secret of his ability to strike himself in this manner? Please reply in writing, as this phenomenon takes place in our country and in other Arab and Muslim countries as well.

A: Allah sent Muhammad (peace be upon him) as the Final Messenger, on the authority of Qur’anic texts and Ijma‘ (scholarly consensus), as Allah says (what means), Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) is not the father of any of your men, but he is the Messenger of Allâh and the last (end) of the Prophets. (Surah Al-Ahzab, 33: 40). Hadiths were reported from the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) by a significant number of trustworthy narrators to show that he is the Last of Prophets; and Muslims have unanimously agreed to this.

Awliya’ (supporters) are of two types: Awliya’ of Allah, and Awliya’ of Satan.

Allah (may He be praised and Exalted) has explained in His Book and the Sunnah of His Messenger (peace be upon him) that He has Awliya’ from among mankind, and that Satan also has his Awliya’.

Thus, Allah distinguishes between those who serve and support Him and those who serve and support Satan, saying (what means): No doubt! Verily, the Auliyâ’ of Allâh [i.e. those who believe in the Oneness of Allâh and fear Allâh much (abstain from all kinds of sins and evil deeds which he has forbidden), and love Allâh much (perform all kinds of good deeds which He has ordained)], no fear shall come upon them nor shall they grieve. Those who believed (in the Oneness of Allâh – Islâmic Monotheism), and used to fear Allâh much (by abstaining from evil deeds and sins and by doing righteous deeds). For them are glad tidings, in the life of the present world (i.e. through a righteous dream seen by the person himself or shown to others), and in the Hereafter. No change can there be in the Words of Allâh. This is indeed the supreme success. (Surah Yunus, 10: 62-64).

Allah also states, Allâh is the Walî (Protector or Guardian) of those who believe. He brings them out from darkness into light. But as for those who disbelieve, their Auliyâ (supporters and helpers) are Tâghût [false deities and false leaders], they bring them out from light into darkness. Those are the dwellers of the Fire, and they will abide therein forever. (See V.2:81,82) (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2: 257). It is mentioned in the Sahih (authentic) Hadith narrated by Al-Bukhari and others, from Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) from the Prophet (peace be upon him) that he stated, Allah says: “Whoever antagonizes a Waliy (sing. of Awliya’) of Mine has challenged Me to fight – or I have declared war against him.” The Prophet (peace be upon him) informed that if anyone declares hostility to the Awliya’ of Allah, he thus declares hostility and a fighting challenge against Allah.

Allah also mentions the Awliya’ of Satan when He states: So when you want to recite the Qur’ân, seek refuge with Allâh from Shaitân (Satan), the outcast (the cursed one). Verily! He has no power over those who believe and put their trust only in their Lord (Allâh). His power is only over those who obey and follow him (Satan), and those who join partners with Him (Allâh i.e. those who are Mushrikûn i.e. polytheists. See Verse 6:121). (Surah Al-Nahl, 16: 98-100). Allah also says: And whoever takes Shaitân (Satan) as a Walî (protector or helper) instead of Allâh, has surely suffered a manifest loss. (Surah Al-Nisa’, 4: 119).

Allah also says: Verily, We made the Shayâtin (devils) Auliyâ’ (protectors and helpers) for those who believe not. And when they commit a Fâhishah (evil deed, going round the Ka‘bah in naked state, and every kind of unlawful sexual intercourse), they say: “We found our fathers doing it” until Allah’s saying: surely they took the Shayâtîn (devils) as Auliyâ’ (protectors and helpers) instead of Allâh, and think that they are guided. (Surah Al-A‘raf, 7: 27-30). Allah also says: And certainly, the Shayâtîn (devils) do inspire their friends (from mankind) to dispute with you, and if you obey them [by making Al-Maitah (a dead animal) legal by eating it], then you would indeed be Mushrikûn (polytheists); [because they (devils and their friends) made lawful to you to eat that which Allâh has made unlawful to eat and you obeyed them by considering it lawful to eat, and by doing so you worshipped them; and to worship others besides Allâh is polytheism]. (Surah Al-An‘am, 6: 121). Allah relates the statement of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham, peace be upon him) who said: “O my father! Verily I fear lest a torment from the Most Gracious (Allâh) should overtake you, so that you become a companion of Shaitân (Satan) (in the Hell-fire).” [Tafsir Al-Qurtubî] (Surah Maryam, 19: 45). Allah also says: O you who believe! Take not My enemies and your enemies (i.e. disbelievers and polytheists) as friends, showing affection towards them until Allah’s saying: Verily, You, only You, are the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.” (Surah Al-Mumtahanah, 60: 1-5).

It is authentically reported in the Two Sahih (authentic) Books of Hadith (i.e. Al-Bukhari and Muslim) from ‘Amr Ibn Al-‘As (may Allah be pleased with him) that he heard the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) say publicly, not in secret: Behold! The family of so-and-so (referring to one group among his relatives) are not of my Awliya’ (supporters). Verily, my Wali (Protector, Supporter, and Helper) is Allah and the righteous believers.

Thus, the difference between the Awliya’ of the All-Merciful and the Awliya’ of Satan is:

The Awliya’ of the All-Merciful are the Allah-fearing, pious believers, as Allah states: No doubt! Verily, the Auliyâ’ of Allâh [i.e. those who believe in the Oneness of Allâh and fear Allâh much (abstain from all kinds of sins and evil deeds which he has forbidden), and love Allâh much (perform all kinds of good deeds which He has ordained)], no fear shall come upon them nor shall they grieve. Those who believed (in the Oneness of Allâh – Islâmic Monotheism), and used to fear Allâh much (by abstaining from evil deeds and sins and by doing righteous deeds). (Surah Yunus, 10: 62-63); whereas the latter are those who show hostility towards Allah and do not obey His Law.

Indeed, the best Awliya’ of Allah are His Messengers; Allah has manifested miracles and performed Karamahs (wonders) through His Messengers. Allah may also bring about Karamahs at the hands of His Awliya’; whereas the astounding feats performed by the Awliya’ of Satan are diabolical practices. The Shaykh of Islam Ibn Taymiyyah (may Allah have mercy on him) said, “Linguistically speaking a Mu‘jizah (miracle) refers to anything extraordinary, as defined by the precedent Imams like Imam Ahmad Ibn Hanbal and others who call it a sign, yet many of the latter Imams differentiate between them in terms of wording, attributing a Mu‘jizah (miracle) to a Prophet and a Karamah (wonder) to a Waliy. However, both of them signify something extraordinary.”

Given this, the person in question is of the Awliya’ of Satan, and his mentioned acts are satanic and deception wrought on people’s eyes. These acts are nothing real; they are illusions and deception wrought on people by the help of the devils.
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’ – alifta.com

Member     Member     Deputy Chairman     Chairman
`Abdullah ibn Qa`ud     `Abdullah ibn Ghudayyan     `Abdul-Razzaq `Afify     `Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz

Qur’anic verses that repel witchcraft – Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

What are the Qur’anic verses that repel witchcraft?

A: Some scholars mentioned that one of the ways of protection from what may touch a person of witchcraft and Jinn possession or what may turn him away from his wife is to read Ayat-ul-Kursy and blowing it into water, and Surahs (Qur’anic chapters) Al-Fatihah (Opening Chapter of the Qur’an), Al-Kafirun, Al-Ikhlas and Al-Mu`awwidhatayn.

If someone recites these Surahs and the noble verse of Ayat-ul-Kursy, and the verses relating to witchcraft in Surah Al-A`raf and the two Surahs of Yunus and Taha; this is one of the causes of recovery.

If a man drinks the water (over which these Surahs and verses are recited) and washes up with it, it will protect him witchcraft and free him from anything that makes him dislike and keep away from his wife.

The verses of Surah Al-A`raf (7: 117-119)  are:

And We revealed to Mûsâ (Moses) (saying): “Throw your stick,” and behold! It swallowed up straight away all the falsehoods which they showed. Thus truth was confirmed, and all that they did was made of no effect. So they were defeated there and returned disgraced.

These verses from Surah Al-A`raf are one ofthe causes of healing, by reciting them over water or blowing them into the sick person together with Surahs Al-Fatihah, Al-Kafirun, Al-Ikhlas, Mu`awwidhatayn as well as Ayat-ul-Kursy. One can either breath them over the patient or recite them over water and then have them drink it and wash up with the rest.

In Surah Yunus (verses 79-82), Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) states:

And Fir‘aun (Pharaoh) said: “Bring me every well-versed sorcerer.” And when the sorcerers came, Mûsâ (Moses) said to them: “Cast down what you want to cast!” Then when they had cast down, Mûsâ (Moses) said: “What you have brought is sorcery; Allâh will surely make it of no effect. Verily, Allâh does not set right the work of Al-Mufsidûn (the evil-doers, corrupters). “And Allâh will establish and make apparent the truth by His Words, however much the Mujrimûn (criminals, disbelievers, polytheists, sinners) may hate it.”

This means that one may either recite them over patients or recite them over water and so on.

The verses of Surah Taha are verses 65-69:

They said: “O Mûsâ (Moses)! Either you throw first or we be the first to throw?” [Mûsâ (Moses)] said: “Nay, throw you (first)!” Then behold! their ropes and their sticks, by their magic, appeared to him as though they moved fast. So Mûsâ (Moses) conceived fear in himself. We (Allâh) said: “Fear not! Surely, you will have the upper hand. “And throw that which is in your right hand! It will swallow up that which they have made. That which they have made is only a magician’s trick, and the magician will never be successful, to whatever amount (of skill) he may attain.”

Source : alifta.com
Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb>Volume 3>A chapter on issues related to witchcraft>Legal Wirds and supplications for seeking refuge in Allah are causes of protection from witchcraft

Q: A questioner asks: Nowadays people talk a lot about witchcraft, may Allah protect you and us from it! What is the right protection of Qur’an and Sunnah (acts, sayings or approvals of the Prophet) from it? May Allah reward you with the best.

A: Witchcraft is practiced and it is well-known. There is no doubt that some people may bring it about. A witchcraft practitioner is a Mushrik (one who associates others with Allah in His Divinity or worship) that must be referred to authorities for possible capital punishment if he is found guilty. We ask Allah for protection and well-being.

`Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) ordered his governors to execute practitioners of witchcraft. The Prophet (peace be upon him) stated:

“The prescribed penalty for a witchcraft practitioner is to be struck with the sword.”

[Related by Al-Tirmidhy, Book on ordained punishments, Chapter on the ordained punishment for a magician, no. 1460]

This is because he is a disbeliever calling to Kufr.

As for protection, it is to “seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He created” three times in the morning and three times in the evening, and saying: “In the name of Allah with whose Name nothing is harmful on Earth nor in the Heavens and He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing” three times in the morning and three times in the evening. These supplications are reported in Hadiths. Whoever does so will be protected by Allah from the evil of all things.

Reciting Surahs Al-Ikhlas and Al-Mu`awwidhatayn three times in the morning and three times in the evening are a cause of protection from witchcraft and any other harm.

Ayat-ul-Kursy can also be recited three times upon going to bed, and this is a cause of protection from witchcraft and Satan. It can also be recited following each Salah (Prayer). All these bring protection and safety. We ask Allah for protection and well-being.

Source Link : http://alifta.com/

Related Link: https://abdurrahman.org/jinn-shayateen-devils

Allaah’s Attribute of Descent – Permanent Committee

The Attribute of Descent

The second question of Fatwa No. 1643

Q 2: I had a discussion with a person educated in modern sciences. He was a teacher at the university of Abidjan, Ivory Coast. He said: “Your Lord descends during the last part of every night to the lowest heaven.” I told him that there is no doubt about that and I completed the Hadith for him. He said: “If this is true, then it means that your Lord does not rise over the throne as mentioned in the Qur’an: The Most Gracious (Allâh) rose over (Istawâ) the (Mighty) Throne (in a manner that suits His Majesty). The last part of the night exists continuously on the earth according to the rotation of the earth around itself with Allah’s Might until the Day of Judgment.” Then I stopped talking.

A: There is no contradiction between the descent of Allah (Exalted be He) to the first heaven in the last third of every night in different areas and His Istiwa‘ (Allah’s rising over the Throne in a manner that befits Him).

He (Exalted be He) is not similar to His creation in any of His Attributes.

Muslims can acquire the Attributes which Allah likes His Servants to acquire

Copying the Divine Characteristics

From `Abdul `Aziz Bin `Abdullah Ibn Baz to the honorable brother Shaykh: `A. S. H.; may Allah protect him! As-salamu `alaykum warahmatullah wabarakatuh (May Allah’s Peace, Mercy, and Blessings be upon you!). To commence: I received your noble letter dated 23/3/1386 A.H., may Allah guide you! It included a question regarding what a Khatib (preacher) mentioned in the Friday Khutbah (sermon) on urging Muslims to acquire Allah’s Attributes and Characteristics. Is this acceptable? Was this acknowledged by any notable scholar?

Answer:

This expression is improper, but it has a true meaning, which is urging people to acquire the good meanings of the Names and Attributes of Allah which befit them, not those peculiar to Allah (Glorified be He) such as the Creator, the Sustainer and the God. Such characteristics cannot be acquired by human beings, and it is impermissible for people to claim them. The same applies to similar Names.

However, Muslims can acquire the Attributes which Allah likes His Servants to acquire, such as being knowledgeable, powerful, merciful, patient, generous, forgiving, etc. He (Glorified be He) is Knowledgeable and He likes knowledgeable people; He is Powerful and He likes powerful people more than the weak; He is Generous and He likes the generous; He is Merciful and He likes the merciful; He is Forgiving and He likes the forgiving.

However, Allah’s Attributes are incomparable, greater and more perfect than those acquired by people, as there is nothing like Him (Glorified be He) in His Attributes and Actions, just as there is nothing like Him in His Entity. A person can only have a share of the meaning of these Attributes that befits them in a Shar`y (Islamic legal) way. Accordingly, if a person becomes too generous, they are considered spendthrifts. If they become too merciful, they will hinder the execution of Hudud (pl. of Had i.e. an ordained punishment for violating Allah’s Law) and Ta`zir (discretionary punishment). If they become too forgiving, they will show forgiveness when it should not be shown.

The foregoing was stated by the prominent scholar Ibn Al-Qayyim (may Allah be merciful with him) in his two books entitled `Uddat Al-Sabirin and Al-Wabil Al-Sayyib. He might have also mentioned it in other books such as Al-Madarij, Zad Al-Ma`ad, and others.Following are his exact words on this regard in the two books mentioned above.

In Al-`Uddah p. 310, he said: “As Allah (Glorified be He) is the Thankful One in reality, the most beloved to Him among His creatures are the thankful, and the most hated to Him are those who acquire the opposite trait. This example also applies to the rest of Allah’s Most Beautiful Names. Allah thus detests the Kafir (disbelievers), the oppressor, the ignorant, the cruel, the miser, the coward, and the humiliated. He (Glorified be He) is Graceful and He loves grace; He is Knowledgeable and He loves knowledge; He is Merciful and He loves mercy; He is Bountiful and He loves Bounty; He is Concealing and He loves concealment; He is Powerful and He hates weakness, for a Mu’min (believer) of strong faith is nearer to Him than a weak one; He is Forgiving and He loves forgiveness; and He is Odd (One) and He loves odd numbers. Anything He loves is one of the meanings of His Names and Traits; and anything He detests is their opposite.”

Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim said in (p. 543) of the Hadith Collection of Al-Wabil Al-Sayyib:

Generosity is one of the Attributes of Allah (Exalted be He); He gives and does not take; He feeds and is not fed; and He is the Most Generous One. The most beloved to Him is whoever acquires the same traits; He is Generous and He loves the generous; He is Knowledgeable and He loves the knowledgeable; He is Powerful and He loves the courageous; and He is Beautiful and He loves beauty. End of quote.

I hope that what we have mentioned is sufficient. May Allah guide us all to understand His religion and fulfill His rights. He is All-Hearer, Ever Near. As-salamu `alaykum warahmatullah wabarakatuh (May Allah’s Peace, Mercy, and Blessings be upon you!)

Deputy President of the Islamic University

Source : alifta.comFatwas of Ibn Baz>Volume 6>Copying the Divine Characteristics

Meaning of “Ahsa” in the hadith related to memorizing the 99 Names of Allaah

Merits of memorizing Allah’s Names

Q: What is meant by the word “Ahsa'” in the Hadith that is related to the Messenger of Allah on the Names of Allah “Anyone who enumerates (Ahsa’) them will be admitted to Paradise.” ?

A: Ihsa’ means to memorize, contemplate, understand and act according to them.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Truly, Allahhas Ninety-nine Names. Anyone who enumerates them will be admitted to Paradise.” and in another wording: “Anyone who memorizes them by heart, will be admitted to Paradise.”

This means to memorize these Names by heart and understand their meaning as this entails goodness and useful knowledge. It also leads to the uprightness of the heart and the more a person will fear Allah and fulfill His Rights.

Q: Your Eminence Shaykh! Some people may count on such Hadiths and think that memorizing the Most Beautiful Names of Allah without effort is sufficient to be admitted to Paradise?

A: This is a misunderstanding as such a Hadith urges Muslims to act according to what the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) prescribed and called for such as: “Anyone who memorizes them by heart, they will be admitted to Paradise.” with regard to the MostBeautiful Names of Allah, and: “Fasting the Day of `Arafah (9th of Dhul-Hijjah) expiates the sins of two years: past one and coming one.” Fasting on the Day of `Ashura’ (10th of Muharram) atones for the sins committed in the preceding year. All these Hadiths urge the Muslims to obey Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He). It is one of the reasons of forgiveness.

When a Muslim pursues the means of forgiveness and does not insist on comitting major sins, this will be a reason for his forgiveness. If a Muslim does not avoid committing major sins, these will not take effect.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “The Five Obligatory Daily Prayers and from Friday Prayer to Friday Prayer, and from Ramadan to Ramadan, are expiations for what happened between them, provided the major sins were avoided.” And in another wording: “unless major sins are committed.”

The Jumhur (dominant majority of scholars) holds the view that the promise of forgiveness that is stated in Hadith on the merits of such and such, such as the favor of Salah (Prayer) and how they erase one’s sins, or the favor of Wudu’ (ablution), fasting on the Day of `Arafah (9th of Dhul-Hijjah), fasting on the Day of `Ashura’ (10th of Muharram) or Ihsa’ the Most Beautiful Names of Allah, etc., is conditional upon avoiding major sins and uprightness. These acts are reasons for having one’s sins forgiven in addition to the other reasons which Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) had legislated and avoiding major sins which prevent forgiveness.Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) says, And those who, when they have committed Fâhishah (illegal sexual intercourse) or wronged themselves with evil, remember Allâh and ask forgiveness for their sins; – and none can forgive sins but Allâh – and do not persist in what (wrong) they have done, while they know. One of the reasons for having sins not forgiven is insisting on committing sins and not repenting, there is neither might nor power except with Allah!

To sum up: The Promise of Allah to admit anyone who memorizes the Beautiful Names of Allah to Paradise, anyone who fasts on the Day of `Ashura’ to atone the sins committed in the preceding year, and fasting on the Day of `Arafah are all conditional upon abandoning major sins. This is also mentioned in a Hadith related to Tawhid (monotheism) such as: “Give the good news of entering Paradise to anyone who honestly testifies that there is no god but Allah.” This is conditional upon abandoning sins. If a person insists on doing sins, they are left to the Will of Allah; He may forgive him or He may throw them into Hell-Fire because of their sins and because they did not repent. When a person is purified of their sins, they will come out of Hell-Fire and will be admitted to Paradise.

Every Muslim should not rely on the Hadiths encouraging and promising good and refrain from the Hadiths and Ayahs (Qur’anic verses) of threatening. They should act according to both and beware of the things which Allah prohibited.They should remember the Hadiths and Ayahs that threaten those who transgress the limits set by Allah and disobey His Commands and at the same time they should anticipate good from Allah, hope for His Mercy and remember His Promise to forgive anyone who performs good deeds. A person should combine between Khawf (fear) and Raja’ (hope). A Muslim should not despair or feel secure. This is the way of the scholars and the believers. Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) says about His prophets: Verily, they used to hasten on to do good deeds, and they used to call on Us with hope and fear , i.e., hope and fear and used to humble themselves before Us. And Those whom they call upon [like ‘Isâ (Jesus) – son of Maryam (Mary), ‘Uzair (Ezra), angel] desire (for themselves) means of access to their Lord (Allâh), as to which of them should be the nearest; and they [‘Isâ (Jesus), ‘Uzair (Ezra), angels and others] hope for His Mercy and fear His Torment. This is the path of the believers who follow the Messengers. They believe in Allah Alone, fear Him, perform His obligatory acts, refrain from the things which He has prohibited, put their hopes in Him, and fear His Punishment.

Source : alifta.com – Fatwas of Ibn Baaz

Actions and Attributes of Allah are Eternal (Qadimah)

Actions and Attributes of Allah are Eternal (Qadimah)

Q: A person from Chad asks: Are the actions of Allah Qadimah (eternal) or Hadithah (adaptable) or both? And if both, how is this so? May Allah reward you with the best.

A: Basically, the actions (or Attributes describing the Actions) of Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) are Qadimah; He ever has always had His Attributes even before creating anything.

Thus, Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) has been, is and will always be the Creator. At all times He is the One able to do all that He wills. He does what He wills at the time He wills. But His Actions come to pass in relation to the conditions of His Creation. To illustrate this, Allah created Adam from nothingness. Likewise, He created the Angels, heavens, the earth, and everything else. Thus, we know that Allah is the Creator at all times, but He “creates” when He wills.

Another example, Allah was pleased with the believers of the past and He will be so with those of the future; Allah was angry with the disbelievers among the people of the past and he will be so with the disbelievers that will come. Thus, the basic characteristics of Allah’s Action and Attributes are Qadimah.

The Attributes of Allah may be divided into two main categories:

The first category is Sifat Dhatiyah (Allah’s Intrinsic and Essential Attributes), such as knowledge, hearing, sight, etc. These are the Attributes which do not cease to exist nor will ever cease to be descriptive of Him [Note: There is no similarity between Allah’s Attributes and that of His Creatures]. Thus, Allah (Glorified be He) has been and will always be described as the All-Hearer, the All-Seer, the All-Knower, the All-Powerful, etc.

The second category is Sifat Fi`liyah, and these are the Attributes, which describe the actions of Allah and are connected to His Mashi’ah (Will) in relation to the variable nature of His Creation. For instance, Allah (Glorified be He) created the heavens and the earth, Adam, Paradise, and Hellfire, etc., after they were all nothing.

The creation of all of them is subject to time, that is, it happens at an appropriate time. This does not deny the fact that Allah (Glorified be He) is the ‘Khaliq’ (Creator of all things), the Omnipotent over all things, etc. These Attributes are originally intrinsic of Allah, but Allah does whatever He wills at the time He wills. In the Qur’an, Allah (Exalted be He) says about Himself: [Verily, (O Muhammad Sallalaahu Alaihi wa Sallam)) the Seizure (punishment) of your Lord is severe and painful. [See V.11:102]. Verily, He it is Who begins (punishment) and repeats (punishment in the Hereafter) (or originates the creation of everything, and then repeats it on the Day of Resurrection). And He is Oft-Forgiving, full of love (towards the pious who are real true believers of Islâmic Monotheism), Owner of the throne, the Glorious, (He is the) Doer of whatsoever He intends (or wills)]. Also, He (Glorified be He) says about Himself: Verily, Allâh does what He wills. Thus, Allah (Glorified be He) does what He wills, in the past and in the future. Allah is the Creator of all things at all times; He created and He is still creating, etc. He (Glorified be He) is the All-Powerful, the All-Knower, the Ever-Living, the One Who sustains and protects all that exists, the All-Hearer, the All-Seer,…etc.

Source : alifta.com – Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb – Question No:22, Tape No. 417

Ruling on Ta’wil (allegorical interpretation) of Allah’s Attributes – Ibn Baaz

Ruling on Ta’wil (Figurative Interpretation) of Allah’s Attributes

Q 4: What is the ruling on ta’wil (allegorical interpretation) of Allah’s Attributes?

A: Ta’wil of Allah’s Attributes is Munkar (disapproved of by Islamic law and Muslims of sound intellect) and is not permissible. In fact, it is obligatory for the Attributes of Allah to be accepted as stated, according to their apparent meaning that befits Allah’s Glory (Glorified and Exalted be He), without Tahrif (distortion of the meaning), Ta‘til (denial), Takyif (describing how), or Tamthil (likening His Attributes to those of His Creation).

Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) informs us of His Names and Attributes, saying: [There is nothing like Him]; and [He is the All-Hearer, the All-Seer]. As Muslims, we have to accept them as they are, according to the opinion of Ahl-ul-Sunnah wal-Jama‘ah (those adhering to the Sunnah and the Muslim main body). They advise Muslims to acknowledge Allah’s Attributes as they are, without Takyif. They should be accepted as they are, without Tahrif, Ta’wil or Takyif. Muslims should attest to Allah’s Attributes as they were revealed, according to their apparent meaning and as befits Allah’s Stature, without any Takyif or Tamthil. For example, Allah says: [The Most Gracious (Allâh) rose over (Istawâ) the (Mighty) Throne (in a manner that suits His Majesty)]. In this Ayah (Qur’anic verse) and similar ones, we are told that Allah rose over the Throne, which is in a manner that suits His Majesty and Grandeur, and the manner of this cannot be compared to that of any of His creatures. The scholars who follow Al-Haqq (the Truth) see this as signifying His Highness and Exaltedness.

The same applies to other Attributes of Allah, such as His Eye, Hearing, Sight, Hand, Foot, and other Attributes that are authentically reported in Nas (Islamic texts from the Qur’an or the Sunnah). All of these Attributes are as befits Allah (Exalted be He) and are not comparable to those of any creature. This is the opinion of the scholars from among the Sahabah (Companions of the Prophet) and those after them from the Imams (initiators of a School of Jurisprudence), such as Al-Awza‘y, Al-Thawry, Malik, Abu Hanifah, Ahmad, Ishaq, and other Muslim Imams (may Allah be merciful to them all).

Allah says, when relating the story of Prophet Nuh (Noah, peace be upon him): [And We carried him on a (ship) made of planks and nails, Floating under Our Eyes] He (Glorified be He) also says when relating the story of Prophet Musa (Moses, peace be upon him): [in order that you may be brought up under My Eye]. Ahl-ul-Sunnah wal-Jama‘ah explained the Ayah where Allah says: Floating under Our Eyes by saying that He (Glorified be He) let the ship float under His Care until it rested on Mount Judy. Similarly, when Allah says: in order that you may be brought up under My Eye. they say that He (Glorified be He) means that Musa (peace be upon him) will be brought up under His Care and with His Guidance to those in charge of raising him.

In the same manner, when Allah (may He be Praised) says to the Prophet (peace be upon him): [So wait patiently (O Muhammad Sallalaahu Alahi wa Sallam) for the Decision of your Lord, for verily, you are under Our Eyes] He means that Muhammad is under Allah’s Protection and Care. These interpretations do not fall under the prohibited Ta’wil; rather, they fall under Tafsir (explanation/exegesis) well-known in the Arabic language and its styles.

A third example is in a Hadith Qudsy (Revelation from Allah in the Prophet’s words)where Allah (Glorified be He) says: “[Anyone who comes nearer to Me by a span, I come nearer to them by a cubit; and anyone who comes nearer to Me by a cubit, I come nearer to them by a fathom; and anyone who comes to Me walking, I come to them running].” These words are accepted as they were revealed from Allah (may He be Praised and Exalted) without Tahrif, Takyif, or Tamthil, but in the way that is wanted by Allah. The same thing can be said about Allah’s Descent at the end of the night, His Hearing, Sight, Anger, Pleasure, Laughter, Happiness, and other authentically established Attributes of Allah. They all must be accepted as they were revealed, in the manner that befits Allah, without any Takyif, Tahrif, Ta‘til or Tamthil. This is because Allah says: [There is nothing like Him; and He is the All-Hearer, the All-Seer]. and many Ayahs to the same effect.

As for Ta’wil of Allah’s Attributes and diverging them from apparent meaning, this is the methodology of those who follow Bid‘ah (innovations in religion), such as the Jahmiyyah and the Mu‘tazilah (deviant Islamic sects), and those who follow them. Their Madh-habs (Schools of Jurisprudence) are Batil (null and void), and have been denied and renounced by Ahl-ul-Sunnah wal-Jama‘ah, who have warned people against their promoters. And Allah is the Grantor of success.

Source: alifta.comFatwas of Ibn Baz