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A mature child sleeping on the same bed with his mother and sister – Permanent Committee

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Q: Is it permissible for a boy to sleep with his mother and his sister if he has reached the age of puberty?

A: It is not permissible for boys who have reached the age of puberty or ten years of age to sleep with their mothers or their sisters in the same bed, out of protection of honors, to keep away from Fitnah (temptation) and block the means leading to sin. The Prophet (peace be upon him) asked us to separate the beds of boys and girls when they reach the age of ten in his saying:

Command your children to offer Salah (Prayer) when they become seven years old; beat them for (neglecting) it when they become ten years old; and arrange their beds (to sleep) separately.

[1] Abu Dawud, Sunan, Book on Salah, no. 495; and Ahmad, Musnad, vol. 2, p. 187.

As for those who have not reached the age of puberty yet, they are asked to take permission when entering the rooms three times when people put on light clothes and `Awrah (parts of the body that must be covered in public) most probably could be revealed.

Allah (Exalted be He) says:

O you who believe! Let your slaves and slave-girls, and those among you who have not come to the age of puberty ask your permission (before they come to your presence) on three occasions: before Fajr (morning) Salât (prayer), and while you put off your clothes for the noonday (rest), and after the ‘Ishâ’ (late-night) Salât (prayer). (These) three times are of privacy for you; other than these times there is no sin on you or on them to move about, attending to each other. Thus Allâh makes clear the Ayât (the Verses of this Qur’ân, showing proofs for the legal aspects of permission for visits) to you. And Allâh is All-Knowing, All-Wise.  [Surah Al-Nur, 24: 58]

Those who have reached the age of puberty are required to take permission at all times.

Allah (Exalted be He) says:

And when the children among you come to puberty, then let them (also) ask for permission, as those senior to them (in age). Thus Allâh makes clear His Ayât (Commandments and legal obligations) for you. And Allâh is All-Knowing, All-Wise. [Surah Al-Nur, 24: 59]

All this is for the purpose of keeping away Fitnah, protecting honors and eliminating the means leading to evil.

As for boys who are less than ten years old, it is permissible for them to sleep with their mothers and sisters in their beds, as they need care and to remove hardship. However, if there is no fear of Fitnah, it is permissible for them to sleep in the same room, even if they are adults, but each one on a separate bed.
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’
http://alifta.com/Fatawa/FatawaChapters.aspx?languagename=en&View=Page&PageID=10374&PageNo=1&BookID=7

Q 12: A man has many children and lives with his family in a small room that hardly accommodates them. What should he do in order not to contradict the order of the Messenger of Allah that children should be separated in beds at certain age?

A: Having separate beds for children is Wajib (obligatory) according to one’s ability. The Muslim should strive hard to fulfill that. Allah (Exalted be He) said, So keep your duty to Allâh and fear Him as much as you can The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, When I command you to do anything, do of it as much as you possibly can.

May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.
http://alifta.com/Fatawa/FatawaChapters.aspx?languagename=en&View=Page&PageID=10375&PageNo=1&BookID=7

Ruling on the so-called science of summoning spirits – Shaykh Ibn Baaz

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 A speech by His Eminence published in the local and Islamic newspapers in 1395 A.H

All praise be to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah, his family, his Companions, and those who follow his guidance.

The so-called science of summoning spirits is widespread among many people including writers and others. They claim that they summon the souls of the dead through a method invented by those who practice such jugglery. They further claim that they ask such souls about the dead, whether they are in bliss or torture, as well as other such affairs as they may think the dead know about.

I have investigated the issue thoroughly to find that it is a false science and a satanic jugglery that aims at corrupting beliefs and morals, confusing Muslims, and claiming to know the Ghayb (the Unseen) in many respects.

Therefore, I considered it proper to write a brief note to clarify the truth, advise the Ummah, and ward off confusion. Undoubtedly, this issue, as any other issue, should be referred to the Qur’an and the Sunnah so that we might verify what they or one of them verify and reject what they or one of them rejects. In this regard, Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) says: O you who believe! Obey Allâh and obey the Messenger (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم), and those of you (Muslims) who are in authority. (And) if you differ in anything amongst yourselves, refer it to Allâh and His Messenger (صلى الله عليه وسلم), if you believe in Allâh and in the Last Day. That is better and more suitable for final determination.

With regards to soul-related issues, they have to do with matters relating to the Ghayb, the truth about which is exclusively known by Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He). It is impermissible to discuss them unless substantiated by a Shar`y (Islamic legal) evidence. Allah (Exalted be He) says: “(He Alone is) the All-Knower of the Ghaib (Unseen), and He reveals to none His Ghaib (Unseen).” Except to a Messenger (from mankind) whom He has chosen (He informs him of unseen as much as He likes), and then He makes a band of watching guards (angels) to march before him and behind him. Allah (Glorified be He) also says in Surah Al-Naml: Say: “None in the heavens and the earth knows the Ghaib (Unseen) except Allâh”

Scholars differed regarding what is intended by the Ruh (the Spirit) in the Ayah (Qur’anic verse) in Surah Al-Isra’ that reads: And they ask you (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه و سلم) concerning the Rûh (the spirit); Say: “The Rûh (the spirit) is one of the things, the knowledge of which is only with my Lord. And of knowledge, you (mankind) have been given only a little.” Some scholars view that it refers to the soul that is in the bodies. Accordingly, the Ayah indicates that the soul is a divine secret unknown to humankind and no one can know about it except what Allah tells. Thus, it is something that is known exclusively to Allah who concealed it from creatures. The Qur’an and authentically reported Hadiths indicate that the souls of the dead survive after the death of bodies. The following Ayah indicates the same fact: It is Allâh Who takes away the souls at the time of their death, and those that die not during their sleep. He keeps those (souls) for which He has ordained death and sends the rest for a term appointed. It is also authentically reported that on the Day of Badr, the Prophet (peace be upon him) ordered that the corpses of twenty-four leaders of Quraysh should be thrown into one of the dirty dry wells of Badr. (It is a habit of the Prophet, peace be upon him, that whenever he conquered some people, he used to stay at the battlefield for three nights). So, on the third day of the Battle of Badr, he ordered that his she-camel be saddled, then he set out, and his Companions followed him saying among themselves, ‘Definitely, he (peace be upon him) is proceeding for some great purpose.’ When he (peace be upon him) halted at the edge of the well, he addressed the corpses of the Quraishi infidels by their names and their fathers’ names, ‘O so-and-so, son of so-and-so, and O so-and-so, son of so-and-so!Would it have pleased you if you had obeyed Allah and His Messenger? We have found true what your Lord promised us. Have you too found true what your Lord promised you?’ `Umar said, ‘O Messenger of Allah! You are speaking to bodies that have no souls!’ The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said, ‘By Him in Whose Hand is the soul of Muhammad, you do not hear what I say better than they do, but they cannot answer.’ The Prophet (peace be upon him) is authentically reported to have said: The deceased person hears the footsteps of those who escort him to his final destination after they leave him.

The great scholar Ibn Al-Qayyim (may Allah be merciful to him) said: “The Salaf (righteous predecessors) are unanimously in agreement with that, and they believed, according to many transmitted reports, that a dead person recognizes the visit of a living person and becomes cheerful about it.”

Furthermore, Ibn Al-Qayyim recorded that Ibn `Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him and his father) gave an interpretation of the Ayah that reads: It is Allâh Who takes away the souls at the time of their death, and those that die not during their sleep. He keeps those (souls) for which He has ordained death and sends the rest for a term appointed.

He said: “I was told that the souls of both the living and the dead meet while sleeping and ask each other questions. However, Allah maintains the souls of the dead and sends the souls of the living back to their bodies.”

Ibn Al-Qayyim (may Allah be merciful to him) commented, saying: “The meeting between the souls of the living and the dead is proven by the fact that a living person might see in his dream a dead person and ask him about things not known by the former for which the latter gives an answer that might correspond with the real fact.”

This is the view held by the Salaf that the souls of the dead survive until a time known only to Allah. However, it is not authentically reported that they communicate with the living people at any time other than that of sleeping.

Claims of jugglers that they have the ability to summon the soul of any dead person they like, talk to, and ask it questions are all false. Actually, such are false claims that have no textual or rational grounds. Rather, Allah Alone is the One Who knows about and disposes of souls. He Alone is the One capable of returning them to bodies whenever He so wills. In fact, He Alone is the One who disposes of His Kingdom and no one can interfere with His Plan. However, those who claim otherwise are those who claim to know things they are totally ignorant about and deliberately lie to people regarding the news they report about souls,which they spread either in order to earn money, to prove themselves able to do things they actually cannot do or to confuse people and thus corrupt their religion and `Aqidah (creed).

In addition, souls summoned by such jugglers are souls of devils they make use of after worshipping and obeying the commands of such devils. The latter do what the former asks and thus deceive people and impersonate the claimed dead people.

Allah (Exalted be He) says in this regard: And so We have appointed for every Prophet enemies – Shayâtîn (devils) among mankind and jinn, inspiring one another with adorned speech as a delusion (or by way of deception). If your Lord had so willed, they would not have done it; so leave them alone with their fabrications. (Tafsîr Qurtubi) (And this is in order) that the hearts of those who disbelieve in the Hereafter may incline to such (deceit), and that they may remain pleased with it, and that they may commit what they are committing (all kinds of sins and evil deeds).

He (Exalted be He) also says: And on the Day when He will gather them (all) together (and say): “O you assembly of jinn! Many did you mislead of men,” and their Auliyâ’ (friends and helpers) amongst men will say: “Our Lord! We benefited one from the other, but now we have reached our appointed term which You did appoint for us.” He will say: “The Fire be your dwelling-place, you will dwell therein forever, except as Allâh may will. Certainly your Lord is All-Wise, All-Knowing.”

Scholars of Tafsir (exegesis of the meanings of the Qur’an) say that Jinn benefit from humans in the sense that the latter worship them through sacrificing, vowing for and supplicating to them. On the other hand, humans benefit from Jinn in the sense that the latter fulfill the requests which the former ask of them. In return, they tell them about things that only the Jinn may get to know from remote places, or about things they overhear, or merely about lies, which happens in most cases. Supposing that such people do not offer acts of worship for the souls they summon, even then such a practice may not be considered permissible. This is because merely asking devils, soothsayers, jugglers, and diviners is impermissible. Believing what they say is more unlawful and sinful and even falls under disbelief. In this regard, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Anyone who visits a diviner and asks him about anything, his Salahs (Prayers) extending to forty nights will not be accepted. It is also reported in Musnad Ahmad and the Sunan (Hadith compilations classified by jurisprudential themes) that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Anyone who resorts to a diviner and believes in what he says has disbelieved in what was revealed to Muhammad (peace be upon him).

****

So many Hadiths and traditions were related in this regard. Undoubtedly, the so-called summoned souls are included under those things prohibited by the Prophet (peace be upon him), as they are of the same kind of souls of devils used by diviners and jugglers and thus have the same ruling. They may not be summoned or believed. In fact, such are all prohibited, abhorred, and false practices based on the above-quoted Hadiths and traditions to this effect. This is also because the statements they report from such souls are included under knowledge of the Ghayb. Allah (Glorified be He) says: Say: “None in the heavens and the earth knows the Ghaib (Unseen) except Allâh”

Such souls might also belong to the devils who used to accompany the dead people, while they were alive, whose souls are summoned. Thus, they may tell some events that had passed to the dead person while alive. Therefore, they may neither be summoned, asked, nor believed as substantiated by the above-quoted evidence. Actually, those people summon no more than devils and Jinn and make use of them in return for acts of worship, which should not be offered to anyone except Allah. Thus, such people commit major Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship that takes the Muslim out of Islam). We seek refuge with Allah.

The Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’ in the Saudi House of Fatwa issued a Fatwa on Hypnotism included under summoning spirits, which states:

“Hypnotism is a kind of fortune-telling or magic whereby the hypnotist uses the Jinn to overpower the subject and then speak through his tongue and give him strength to do things by means of controlling his faculties. This is true if the Jinni is sincere to the hypnotist and obeys him in return for the things by means of which the hypnotist draws close to him. So, the Jinni makes the subject obey the commands of the hypnotist and helps him do things he is asked by the hypnotist to do. Thus, it is impermissible to use hypnotism in finding out stolen objects or lost thingsor in treating diseases or doing anything. Rather, it is an act of Shirk, for the reasons stated above and because it implies relying on other than Allah in things beyond ordinary means which Allah has made accessible for His creatures and permitted them to use.”

End of quote.

Among scholars who disclosed the truth about such false claims is Dr. Muhammad Muhammad Husayn in his book “Modern Spirituality, Truth and Objectives.” He was one of those deceived by such jugglery for a while but Allah guided him to truth to uncover the falsehood of such claims after he had gone deeply into them and found them no more than superstitions and jugglery. He stated that those who practice summoning spirits make use of a variety of methods. Beginners use a small cup to receive them therein. Others make use of the basket method on whose edge a pen is fastened to write answers to the questions of questioners. However, others depend on an intermediary such as in the case of Hypnotism.

He added that he has doubts about those who claim to summon spirits and that they are supported by certain sponsors in view of the huge propaganda made for them. Therefore, many newspapers and magazines that have never been active in any spiritual or hereafter-related fields hurried to be updated with them and publish their claims. Such magazines have never called to religion or belief in Allah. He also added that they concern themselves with reviving the Pharaonic and other pre-Islamic ideologies. Moreover, he added that those who promote these ideas are people who lost a dear person, and thus try to console themselves through fancies. In this regard, the most famous person who promoted such an idea is Mr. Oliver Lodge who lost his son in World War I. The same applies to the founder of Spiritualism movement in Egypt Ahmad FahmyAbul-Khayr whose long awaited son died in 1937.

Dr. Muhammad Muhammad Husayn stated that he practiced such a false practice starting with the method of cup and table, which he found them unpersuasive. He ended up using the method of an intermediary and tried to watch the so-called embodiment of souls or hear their direct voice that they deem the evidence of the truthfulness of their claims. Neither he nor others were successful because this cannot be materialized in the actual fact. Rather, they are no more than exact deceptions based on secret skillful tricks that aim at destroying religions.

Universal destructive Zionism is not far away this. When the man came to realize the truth about such false ideas and to lose confidence in them, he forsook them and decided to make clear the truth to people. He began to say that those deviated people work hard to extract deep-rooted faith and `Aqidah out of people’s hearts and plunge them into a confusing mix of doubts and illusions. Those who claim to summon spirits describe the Messengers of Allah (peace be upon them) as no more than spiritual intermediaries as claimed by their leader Arthur Findlay in his book “On the Edge of the Ether.” Speaking about prophets, the author describes them as high class intermediaries, and their miracles as no more than spiritual phenomena as those that happen in the room where spirits are summoned.

Dr. Husayn further said: “If they fail to summon a spirit, they will say that the intermediary is unsuccessful or tired, that attendants are incompatible or that among attendants are dubious or challenging people.”

Among their false claims is their claim that Jibril (Gabriel, peace be upon him) attends and blesses their sessions (may Allah damn them). This was a brief outline of the ideas of Dr. Muhammad Muhammad Husayn on the subject.

According to what we mentioned above as well as the opinion of the Committee and Dr. Muhammad Muhammad Husayn on Hypnotism, it becomes clear how false are the claims of those who allege that they talk to souls, including summoning the souls of the dead and asking them what they would like to know. It also becomes clear that all these are satanic acts and jugglery falling under acts warned against by the Prophet (peace be upon him), such as consulting diviners, soothsayers, augurs and the like. It is thus obligatory on officials in Muslim states to ban and eliminate such falsehood and prescribe deterrent penalties against those indulgent in them. It is also obligatory on editors-in-chief of Muslim newspapers not to publish such falsehood which might defame their newspapers. Rather, they have to criticize and refute it and warn people against the traps, deceptions and illusions of devils from among both human and Jinn. Indeed, Allah says the truth and guides to the straight path. We ask Him to reform the states of Muslims, grant them clear understanding of the religion, and protect them against the deception of criminals and the illusions of the friends of devils. Indeed, He is the Patron, Capable of all things. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad.

Posted from : http://www.alifta.net/Fatawa/fatawaDetails.aspx?languagename=en&View=Page&PageID=209&PageNo=1&BookID=14

Ruling on Itikaf in a Masjid other than the Three Holy Masjids – Ibn Baz Fatwas

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Fatwas of Ibn Baz

Q. What is the degree of authenticity of the Hadith: There should be no I`tikaf (seclusion for worship in a Masjid) except in the Three Masjids (mosques) If it is authentic, does it actually mean that there should be no I`tikaf except in the Three Masjids (i.e., the Sacred, Prophet’s, and Al-Aqsa)?

A. It is valid to observe I`tikaf in any Masjid other than the three Masjids, on condition that congregational Salah (Prayer) is established therein. For, if this condition is not fulfilled, it becomes invalid to observe I`tikaf there.

However, this does not apply if a person vows to observe I`tikaf in any of the three Masjids, for they are then obliged to fulfill their vow. May Allah guide us all to do what pleases Him.

As-salamu `alaykum warahmatullah wabarakatuh (May Allah’s Peace, Mercy, and Blessings be upon you!).

Chairman of the Departments of Scholarly Research,
Ifta’, Daw`ah, and Guidance

Posted from http://alifta.org

Making peace treaties with the Jews or other Kuffaar(disbelievers) does not necessitate supporting and befriending them – Ibn Baz

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Q 1: Some people understood from your answer to the first question in the interview about concluding treaties with the Jews that signing a peace treaty or truce with the Jews who captured the lands and committed transgressions is unconditionally permissible. They also understood that they have to support and befriend the Jews. Making peace with them requires the Muslims not to stir hatred and disavowal of the Jews in the educational curriculum or mass media in the Muslim countries. The world is now witnessing a phase of international reconciliation and peaceful coexistence. It is not allowed to arouse feelings of religious hatred among people. Would you please explain this issue.

A 1: Making peace with the Jews or other disbelievers does not necessitate support and friendship. It ensures that both sides enjoy safety and peace and may engage in other dealings such as sale, purchase, and exchange of ambassadors. These actions do not require the Muslims to support or befriend the disbelievers.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) concluded peace treaties with the people of Makkah. This act did not force the Muslims to befriend or support the pagans, but the feelings of hatred remain until the Opening of Makkah and people entered into the religion of Allah (Exalted be He) in multitudes.

Similarly, he (peace be upon him) made peace with the Jews of Al-Madinah for an unlimited period when he emigrated to Al-Madinah. He (peace be upon him) used to buy things from them, talk to them and call them to Islam but it was not necessary to befriend or support them. Furthermore, the Prophet (peace be upon him) died while his armor was in pawn with a Jew in return for food.

When Banu Al-Nadir, a Jewish tribe, committed high treason, they were expelled from Al-Madinah. When Qurayzhah breached the covenant and joined a besieging army of the enemy that came from Makkah to fight the Prophet (peace be upon him) on the Day of Ahzab, the Prophet (peace be upon him) fought them killing their leaders and taking their women and offspring captives. When Sa`d Ibn Mu`adh (may Allah be pleased with him) judged them, he judged that the men must be killed and the women and children taken captives. So, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said that he judged according to the judgment of Allah (Exalted be He) from above the seven heavens.

The Muslims among the Sahabh and their followers often declared a truce with the Christians and other non-Muslims without having to support or befriend them.

Allah (Glorified be He) says, Verily, you will find the strongest among men in enmity to the believers (Muslims) the Jews and those who are Al-Mushrikûn.  [Sooratul-Maa‘idah 5:82]

Allah (Glorified be He) also says: Indeed there has been an excellent example for you in Ibrâhîm (Abraham) and those with him, when they said to their people: “Verily, we are free from you and whatever you worship besides Allâh: we have rejected you, and there has started between us and you hostility and hatred for ever until you believe in Allâh Alone” [Sooratul-Mumtahinah 60:4]

He (Glorified be He) also says, O you who believe! Take not the Jews and the Christians as Auliyâ’ (friends, protectors, helpers), they are but Auliyâ’ of each other. And if any amongst you takes them (as Auliyâ’), then surely he is one of them. Verily, Allâh guides not those people who are the Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers and unjust).[Sooratul-Maa‘idah 5:51]

Allah (Glorified be He) also says: You (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) will not find any people who believe in Allâh and the Last Day, making friendship with those who oppose Allâh and His Messenger (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم), even though they were their fathers or their sons or their brothers or their kindred (people).[Sooratul-Mujaadilah 58:22]

There are many Ayahs that convey the same meaning.

Here is another situation showing that making peace with the Jews or other disbelievers, when necessary, does not necessitate supporting and befriending them. When the Prophet (peace be upon him) conquered Khaybar, he made peace with the Jews and agreed that they take care of the palms and fields and the harvest was to be halved between them and the Muslims. This agreement was unlimited and they stayed in Khaybar under this agreement as the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, We will let you stay on this (condition), as long as we will.[1] According to another narration, “We will let you stay, as long as Allah will let you stay.” [2] They stayed there until `Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) evacuated them. It is narrated that when `Abdullah ibn Rawahah (may Allah be pleased with him) estimated the value due on the fruits of the palm trees one year, they alleged that the value was unjust. He (may Allah be pleased with them) told them, “By Allah! My hatred for you and my love for the Muslims will never make me treat you unjustly. If you will, accept my bulk assessment of the outcome that I made for you; otherwise we accept it all.”

Hence, these situations indicate that making peace treaties and truce with the enemies of Allah does not require us to support or befriend them, as some of those who are not aware of the rulings of the purified Shari`ah believe.

It should be clear that making peace treaties with the Jews or other disbelievers does not require us to change the educational curriculum or other dealings based on support and befriending. May Allah grant us success.

Footnotes:

[1] Narrated by Al-Bukhari, Book on sharecropping, Chapter on when the Owner of the land says, “I will let you remain as long as Allah lets you remain”…, no. 2338; and Muslim, Book on sharecropping, Chapter on sharecropping in return for part of the fruits and plants, no. 1551.

[2] Narrated by Al-Bukhari, Book on conditions, Chapter on when a precondition is made in the sharecropping: “If I wish, I can expel you.”, no. 2730.’

Source: alifta.com – Fatwas of Ibn Baz rahimahullaah

Can a person be excused for their ignorance regarding the fundamentals of Tawhid – Ibn Baaz fatwas

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No excuses are accepted regarding the Fundamentals of Tawhid 

Q: Can a person be excused for their ignorance regarding the fundamentals of Tawhid (belief in the Oneness of Allah) which represent the core of Din (religion)? What is the ruling on judging specific people as being Kafirs (disbelievers) for indulging in practices of Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship) out of their ignorance?

A: No person can be excused for their ignorance regarding issues of Tawhid so long as they live amongst Muslims. However, whoever lives far away from Muslim areas and is ignorant of Islam, they will be judged by Allah (Glorified be He). They will be dealt with in the same way as Ahl-ul-Fatrah (people having no access to Divine Messages) on the Day of Resurrection i.e. they will be tested there and judged accordingly.

On the other hand, whoever lives amongst Muslims and hears the Word of Allah and His Messenger without adhering to them but instead worships the graves and seeks their help or insults Din, such people are Kafirs (disbelievers). Muslim authorities have to ask such people to repent and if they do not, they have to be killed for their Kufr (disbelief).

The same applies to whoever mocks the Din, considers Halal (lawful) things that Allah declares as being Haram (prohibited) such as Zina (sexual intercourse outside marriage), Khamr (intoxicant), applying positive law, judging by laws other than what Allah has revealed, or claiming that such laws are better than the laws which are set by Allah. Declaring any of the foregoing as Halal is tantamount to committing Riddah (apostasy), we seek refuge with Allah from this. It is thus Wajib (obligatory) on every Islamic government to apply Shari`ah (Islamic law), to advise whoever indulges in any of the practices which revoke their Islam to make Tawbah (repentance to Allah), and to kill them if they refuse to give up their Kufr.

Proof for this is the Hadith in which the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Whoever (a Muslim) discards their Din, kill them. (Related by Al-Bukhari in his Sahih (authentic) Book of Hadiths). Moreover, it is reported in the Two Sahih Books of Hadith (i.e. Al-Bukhari and Muslim) on the authority of Mu`adh ibn Jabal (may Allah be pleased with him) that he ordered some rulers to kill the apostates if they do not make Tawbah. Mu`adh said: ‘This is the judgment of Allah and His Messenger’.

However, such a judgment has to be applied by the Muslim ruler and through the Shar`y (Islamic legal) courts. This is to ensure that the ruling of Allah is implemented on the basis of true knowledge and insight of Muslim authorities. May Allah set right the affairs of us all. Verily, Allah is the All Hearer, the Most Near.

Posted from: http://alifta.com

* Fasting on Mondays and Thursdays after the 15th of Sha‘ban

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Q 4: Is it permissible to observe Sawm (Fasting) on Mondays and Thursdays of Rajab and Sha‘ban? Is it permissible to observe Sawm after the fifteenth of Sha‘ban?

A: Observing Sawm on Mondays and Thursdays is not only restricted to Rajab or Sha‘ban, rather it is a Mandub (commendable) act during all the months of the year. It is also permissible for whoever is in the habit of fasting them all year to observe fasting them after the fifteenth of Sha‘ban, even if one of these days coincides with the Day of Doubt (so called because there is doubt concerning it – is it the last day of Sha‘ban or the first day of Ramadan), for the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Do not observe fast for a day or two days ahead of Ramadan, except a person who is in the habit of observing a particular Sawm; they may fast on that day. (Agreed upon its authenticity by Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

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’
Chairman: Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz (rahimahullaah)
http://alifta.com

Enjoin right even if those advised become angry – Ibn Baaz fatwas

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Q: There are some Muslim sisters from Al-Mujamma`ah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia who say in their question: When we try to stop the spread of Namimah (tale-bearing) and Ghibah (backbiting) among people, those whom we advise may insult and become mad at us. Are we sinful for making them angry, especially if they are parents? Should we prevent them or forget about matters that are not related to us? Please, advise!

A: Enjoining right and forbidding wrong are of the most important acts of worship, as Allah (Glorified be He) says:

 The believers, men and women, are Auliyâ’ (helpers, supporters, friends, protectors) of one another; they enjoin (on the people) Al-Ma‘rûf (i.e. Islâmic Monotheism and all that Islâm orders one to do), and forbid (people) from Al-Munkar (i.e. polytheism and disbelief of all kinds, and all that Islâm has forbidden) (Surah At-Tawbah, 9: 71)

So, Allah (Glorified be He) explains in this Ayah that enjoining right and forbidding wrong are of the qualities of the believing men and women where Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) says:

 You [true believers in Islâmic Monotheism, and real followers of Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) and his Sunnah] are the best of peoples ever raised up for mankind; you enjoin Al-Ma‘rûf (i.e. Islâmic Monotheism and all that Islâm has ordained) and forbid Al-Munkar (polytheism, disbelief and all that Islâm has forbidden), and you believe in Allâh. (Surah Al-`Imran, 3: 110)

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

Whoever, among you, sees something abominable should rectify it with his hand; and if he has not strength enough to do it, then he should do it with his tongue; and if he has not strength enough to do it, (even) then he should (abhor it) from his heart, and that is the least of Faith. Related by Muslim in his Sahih (book of authentic Hadiths).

There are many Ayahs and Hadiths on the obligation of enjoining right and forbidding wrong that rebuke those who neglect this duty. It is obligatory upon you and upon every believing man and woman to enjoin right and forbid wrong, even if those whom you invite become angry or insult you. Indeed, observing patience is obligatory as the Prophets (peace be upon them) and their followers did.

Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) addressed His Prophet (peace be upon him) saying: Therefore be patient (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) as did the Messengers of strong will .Surah Al-Ahqaf, 46: 35

 Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) says: …and be patient. Surely, Allâh is with those who are As-Sâbirûn (the patient). Surah Al-Anfal, 8: 46

Allah (Glorified be He) says about Luqman Al-Hakim (Luqman the wise) that he said to his son: “O my son! Aqim-As-Salât (perform As-Salât), enjoin (on people) Al-Ma‘rûf – (Islâmic Monotheism and all that is good), and forbid (people) from Al-Munkar (i.e. disbelief in the Oneness of Allâh, polytheism of all kinds and all that is evil and bad), and bear with patience whatever befalls you.Verily, these are some of the important commandments (ordered by Allâh with no exemption). (Surah Luqman, 31: 17)

No doubt, reforming the society and preserving its integrity are achieved by following the instructions of Allah and then by enjoining right and forbidding wrong.

The neglect of enjoining right and forbidding wrong is one of the greatest reasons for corrupting the society, tearing it apart, and exposing it to general punishment. It is authentically reported from the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) that he said: If acts of disobedience are done among people and they do not change them, Allah will soon punish them all. (Al-Tirmidhy, Sunan, Book on trials, no. 2168; and Ibn Majah, Sunan, Book on trials, no. 4005.’)

Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) warned His servants against following the example of the Children of Israel in His saying: Those among the Children of Israel who disbelieved were cursed by the tongue of Dâwûd (David) and ‘Isâ (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary). That was because they disobeyed (Allâh and the Messengers) and were ever transgressing beyond bounds. They used not to forbid one another from Al-Munkar (wrong, evil-doing, sins, polytheism, disbelief) which they committed. Vile indeed was what they used to do. (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5: 78-79)

We ask Allah to guide all Muslims, rulers and subjects, to do this duty in the best form, to reform their conditions, and protect all people from the causes of His wrath. He is the All-Hearer, the All-Respondent.

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Beware of incantations (Ruqyah) invloving Statements of Shirk- Ibn Baaz fatwas

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Avoiding recitations for healing or protection that violate Shari`ah

From `Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz to all Muslims in the district of Al-Far` and other districts of Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, may Allah guide you to have insight into the religion of Islam, Amen.

May Allah’s peace, mercy and blessings be upon you. To proceed:

I have been informed that in your district there is an incantation against scorpions and other poisonous creatures, and that this incantation contains statements of Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship). That is why I see I have to warn you against such Ruqyahs (recitations for healing or protection).

The following is the text of some of such Ruqyahs referred to above:

(In the Name of Allah! O Allah’s Words! By the seven heavens and the revealed Ayahs that rule but not ruled! O Sulayman Al-Rifa`y! O fighter of scorpions’ poison! Call scorpions in the name of Al-Rifa`y, both female scorpions and male ones, both long scorpions and short ones, both red scorpions and white ones, and both big scorpions and small ones against the evil of scorpions creeping both in the evening and in the morning. I seek help against them from Allah, His Ayahs, ninety nine prophets, Fatimah, the Prophet’s daughter and her offspring).

These words are only some of the incantations I have been informed of. They have many formulas, which all involve Shirk. There could be no doubt that such incantations include statements of Shirk, such as, “By the seven heavens,” and, “O Sulayman Al-Rifa`y! O fighter of scorpions’ poison! Call scorpions in the name of Al-Rifa`y,” and, “I seek help against them from Allah, His Ayahs, ninety-nine prophets, and Fatimah, the Prophet’s daughter and her offspring.”

It is worth mentioning that the Glorious Qur’an and the Prophetic Sunnah stress that Allah Alone is the only One worthy of worship and no one should be invoked or asked for help except Allah (Exalted be He).

Allah (Glorified be He) says: You (Alone) we worship, and You (Alone) we ask for help (for each and everything).

Allah (Glorified be He) also says: And the mosques are for Allâh (Alone): so invoke not anyone along with Allâh.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Du’a` (supplication) is (the essence of) worship.

He(peace be upon him) also said: If you beg, beg of Allah Alone; and if you need assistance, supplicate to Allah Alone for help.

There are many Ayahs (Qur’anic verses) and Prophetic Hadiths that stress this meaning. Moreover, Muslim scholars unanimously agree that appealing to the heavens, stars, idols, trees, and so on, for help is as an act of Shirk.

Similarly, they unanimously agree that it is not permissible to invoke the dead or seek their help whether they were prophets, righteous people or others. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: When a man dies, his deeds come to an end, except for three: Sadaqah Jariyah (ongoing charity), knowledge by which people benefit, or a pious son who prays for him (the deceased).

The Ruqyah referred to above includes some statements like asking the heavens, the dead, including prophets, Al-Rifa`y, and others for help. All this is regarded as an act of Shirk. Thus, all Muslims should be cautious about such Ruqyahs and similar incantations that contain statements of Shirk. Moreover, Muslims should advise and warn one another against such Ruqyahs.

They should resort to legal Ruqyahs (i.e. reciting Qur’an and saying supplications over the sick seeking healing), such as Ayat-ul-Kursy (the Qur’anic Verse of Allah’s Chair, Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:255), Surah Al-Ikhlas, Surah Al-Falaq, Surah Al-Nas and other Ayahs.

This is in addition to supplications for refuge and protection prescribed by Shari`ah (Islamic law), such as seeking refuge with Allah’s Perfect Words from the evil of His creation. Also, a Muslim can say three times in the morning and in the evening: In the Name of Allah, with Whose Name nothing can be harmful on the earth or in the heaven, and He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower. Also, there is the Islamic Ruqyah for the sick and for people who are stung in which a Muslim can say three times: Remove the affliction, O Lord of mankind, and bring about healing, as You are the Healer. There is no healing but Your Healing; a healing that leaves behind no ailment. In the Name of Allah I perform Ruqyah for you, from everything that may harm you; from the evil of any soul or envious eye. May Allah heal you. In the Name of Allah I perform Ruqyah for you.

Similarly, reciting Surah Al-Fatihah over the sick and the people who are stung is one of the greatest causes of cure, especially when recitation is performed sincerely and truthfully asking Allah (Exalted be He) to grant healing with full faith that Allah (Exalted be He) is the Only One who Cures and that no one can cure people from a diseases except Him (Glorified be He).

I ask Allah to guide us and all Muslims to have insight into His Religion and to steadfastly adhere to it. I ask Him to protect us from all that violates His Laws. Indeed, He is the Most Generous and the Most Beneficent. May Allah’s Peace, Mercy and Blessings be upon you.

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Pursuing the Monuments of Prophets : People try to get closer to Allah through means that drive them further from Allah – Ibn Baaz Fatwas

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It was authentically reported from Amir Al-Mu’minin (Commander of the Believers) `Umar ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) that he condemned pursuing the monuments of prophets and ordered that the tree under which the Bay`ah of Al-Hudaybiyah took place be cut, when he learned that some people began going there. This was meant to protect Tawhid (belief in the Oneness of Allah) and eliminate the means leading to Shirk, Bid`ah and superstitions related to Jahiliyyah (pre-Islamic time of ignorance).

Below is some of what was mentioned by some scholars in this regard, so that you will be well informed about this matter. 

Imam Abu Bakr Muhammad ibn Al-Walid Al-Tartushy said in his book ‘Al-Hawadith wal-Bida`’, a chapter entitled ‘A Chapter on Forms of Bid`ah’, p. 135, “Al-Ma`rur ibn Suwayd said, ‘When we went to perform Hajj with `Umar ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him), we saw a Masjid (mosque) on the way, so people began offering Salah (Prayer) in it.’ `Umar said, “O, people! Those who were before you perished because of honoring such sites, until they took them as places of worship. If one arrives there at the time of Salah, one should offer Salah there; otherwise they should leave.'”

On p. 141, he said on the authority of Muhammad ibn Waddah that `Umar ibn Al-Khattab ordered that the tree under which the Prophet (peace be upon him) was given the Bay`ah be cut, because people began to visit it and `Umar feared that they might be misled. 

Ibn Waddahsaid: “Malik and other scholars of Al-Madinah hated going to the Masjids and Islamic monuments in Al-Madinah except Quba’ and Uhud. Sufyan entered Al-Aqsa Mosque and offered Salah there, but he did not inquire about those monuments or offer Salah there; and others who imitated him did the same.” 

Ibn Waddah then said: “How many matters are now considered acceptable by many people that were once considered Munkar. People try to get closer to Allah through means that drive them further from Allah.”

Shaykh-ul-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah (may Allah be merciful to him) said in his book ‘Majmu` Al-Fatawa‘, Vol. 26, P. 133:

“As for climbing Mount Al-Rahmah (at `Arafah) it is neither an act of Sunnah (supererogatory act of worship following the example of the Prophet) nor Mustahab (desirable).

Nor is it Mustahab to enter the dome above it, called the Dome of Adam, to offer Salah there, or circumambulate it, as this is one of the major sins.

It is neither Mustahab to enter the Masjids at the place of Jamarat (stone pillars at which pebbles are thrown during Hajj) or offer Salah there. Circumambulation around them, the Stone, the room of the Prophet (peace be upon him) or anything other than the Ka`bah is a grave Bid`ah.”

He also said on p. 144 of the same section,

“As for visiting the Masjids that were built in Makkah other than Al-Masjid Al-Haram (the Sacred Mosque in Makkah), such as the one by the foot of Al-Safa, the one by the foot of Abu Qubays,and such Masjids that were built at the sites of the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his Sahabah, such as Masjid Al-Mawlid (the Prophet’s birthday) and others, it is neither a Sunnah to visit these places, nor was it preferable by any of the Imams.

It is only permissible to visit Al-Masjid Al-Haram in particular, and the sacred ritual places, such as `Arafah, Muzdalifah, Mina, Al-Safa and Al-Marwah. However, visiting the mountains and areas around Makkah other than `Arafah, Muzdalifah and Mina, such as Hira’ Mountain, the mountain at Mina where it is claimed that there was the sacrifice dome and such places. It is not a Sunnah related to the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him), but rather a Bid`ah.

The same applies to the Masjids built at the sites said to be monuments. The Prophet (peace be upon him) did not permit visiting any of these.”

In vol. 27, p. 134, of the same book, he also said:

“Some people might ask whether it is permissible to glorify a place where there is worn-out things and saffron as the Prophet (peace be upon him) was seen there. Glorification of such places and turning them into Masjids is an imitation of the People of the Book whom we are prohibited to imitate.

It was authentically reported that `Umar ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) was traveling when he saw a group of people hurrying to a place. He asked, ‘What is this?’ People replied, ‘It is a place where the Prophet (peace be upon him) offered Salah.’ He said, ‘Do you want to turn the sites of your prophet into Masjids? If the time of Salah comes while a person is there, they can offer Salah there; otherwise they should leave.’ `Umar said this in the presence of a number of Sahabah (may Allah be pleased with them). It is known that the Prophet (peace be upon him) used to offer Salah in many places while traveling, and the people would see him in their sleep in different places. However, the Salaf did not turn any of these into Masjids or tourist sites. If this door is opened, many of the Muslim lands will be turned into Masjids and tourist sites, as people still dream that the Prophet (peace be upon him) visits them at home. Establishing such tourist sites is a loathed Bid`ah. Allah has not ordered that the places of prophets be turned into a Musalla (a place for Prayer) except Maqam Ibrahim (the Station of Ibrahim) in His statement: And take you (people) the Maqâm (place) of Ibrâhîm (Abraham) [or the stone on which Ibrâhîm (Abraham) عليه السلام stood while he was building the Ka‘bah] as a place of prayer (for some of your prayers, e.g. Two Rak‘at after the Tawâf of the Ka‘bahat Makkah) 

He has neither ordered that a stone be touched and kissed except Al-Hajar Al-Aswad (the Black Stone in a corner of the Ka`bah), or Salah be directed to a building other than Al-Bayt-ul-Haram (the Sacred House, another name for the Ka`bah). According to the Ijma` (consensus) of the Muslims, it is impermissible to make analogies in this matter. It is tantamount to asking the people to perform Hajj to a place other than Al-Bayt-ul-`Atiq or observe Sawm (fasting) in a month other than Ramadan, and so on.”

He then said:

“The rest of the issues have been definitely answered. If a person offers Salah or recites Du`a’ (supplication) intentionally at the place of a prophet’s footprints or site; the grave of a Sahaby (Companion of the Prophet), a sheikh, or one of Ahl-ul-Bayt (members of the Prophet’s extended Muslim family), a tower or a cave, this is a rejected Bid`ah in Islam, as neither the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) nor the early generation of Muslims or those who followed them in righteousness did so. Not one of the Muslim Imams preferred it; rather, it is a means leading to Shirk.” There is elaboration on this elsewhere.

He then said on p. 500 in the same section,

“After Islam, none of the Sahabah used to go to Hira’ Cave on purpose. It is impermissible for us to seek the caves of mountains or sit in seclusion there…As for sitting in seclusion in caves and traveling for a mountain to seek blessings, such as Al-Tur Mountain, Mount Hira’, Mount Thawr and others, it is impermissible for us. The Prophet (peace be upon him) stated: Do not set out on a journey except to three Masjids: Al-Masjid Al-Haram, this mosque of mine (the Prophet’s Mosque), and Al-Aqsa Mosque (in Jerusalem). 

End of quote.

Ibn Al-Qayyim (may Allah be merciful to him) wrote on p. 204 of his book Ighathat Al-Lahfan min Masa’id Al-Shaytan, after warning against visiting graves to seek blessings in them and recite Du`a’ there:

“The Sahabah disapproved of things much more trivial than this. Many people narrated from Al-Ma’rur ibn Suwayd that he offered Fajr (Dawn) Prayer with `Umar ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) on the way to Makkah, and then people began spreading everywhere. He asked, ‘Where are these people going?’ It was said, ‘O Amir Al-Mu’minin, they go to offer Salah in a Masjid where the Prophet (peace be upon him) offered Salah.’ He said, ‘Those who were before you perished because of this; they used to follow the traces of their prophets and turn them into places of `Ibadah. If the time of Salah comes while you are in such places, offer Salah there; otherwise you should leave, and do not go there intentionally.’ `Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) also uprooted the tree under which the Sahabah made the Bay`ah to the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him).”

End of quote.

Scholars stated much about this issue. We hope that what we have already mentioned is enough and convincing for those who seek the truth. Having known the previously mentioned pieces of evidence from Shari`ah and the opinions of scholars on this issue, you would know that the call of the writer for glorifying Islamic monuments, such as Thawr Cave, the place where Al-Rudwan Bay`ah took place and others; reconstructing what was demolished of them; paving roads leading to them; making elevators or cable cars for high places such as the two mentioned caves; turning them into tourist sites; erecting signs to them; and appointing tourist guides for the visitors is all contrary to Islamic Shari`ah, which provides for achieving and boosting interests, and preventing and curbing evil, as well as blocking the means leading to Shirk and Bid`ah. You would also know that we should prevent Bid`ah and the means leading to Shirk, even if those who call for them have good intentions, as they lead to great evil, change the rites of Islam, and create new places and forms of `Ibadah that were not prescribed by Allah or His Messenger (peace be upon him). Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) states: This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islâm as your religion.

Anything that was not prescribed in the era of the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his Sahabah (may Allah be pleased with them) cannot be made permissible later. If this door is opened, Islam will be misrepresented and innovated ideas will enter it. Muslims will thus become like the Jews and the Christians in their manipulating their faiths and changing them according to their whims and desires. That is why Imam Malik ibn Anas, the Imam of Madinah (may Allah be merciful to him), made a great statement that all the scholars agreed upon, saying: “The last generations of this Ummah (nation) will not succeeded except when they resort to what made the former followers succeed.” He meant that what brought success to the first generation was adherence to the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him), following their rules and avoiding what contradicts them. The last generations of this Ummah will not succeed unless they resort to what made the former generations succeed. He (may Allah be merciful to him) has spoken the truth. When people corrupted their faith, created Bid`ah and founded new ways, they divided into different sects, became confused with every sect rejoicing in what they had. Their enemies attacked them, taking advantage of discrepancy among them, weakness of faith, difference in intentions, and fanaticism of every sect to their misleading ways and Bid`ah, until the conditions of the Muslims have reached the current weakness and many nations have attacked them. All Muslims should return to their correct faith adhering to its just rules, learning from the original sources of the Qur’an and the authentic Sunnah, and advising each other accordingly. We must cooperate to achieve this in all fields, whether legislative, economic, political, social or others; and avoid anything that contradicts it or leads to ambiguity. In this manner Muslims will restore their lost dignity and their previous glory, and Allah will make them triumph over their enemies and rule the world

Read the Full Fatwa of Shaykh Ibn Baaz : http://alifta.com/Fatawa/FatawaChapters.aspx?languagename=en&View=Page&PageID=72&PageNo=1&BookID=14

When does the last third of the night begin and end? – Shaykh Ibn Baaz

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Outset and end of the last third of night  [1]

Q: It is reported in the Hadith that Allah descends every night to the lowest heaven in the last third of the night [2]. When does the last third of the night begin and end?

A: There are Mutawatir Hadiths (a Hadith reported by a significant number of narrators throughout the chain of narration, whose agreement upon a lie is impossible) from the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) that prove that Allah descends. The Prophet (peace be upon him) stated, Our Lord descends to the lowest heaven every night when the last third of the night begins when He says, ‘Who calls Me to answer him? Who asks Me to give him? Who asks Me for forgiveness to forgive him? [3]

Ahl-ul-Sunnah wal-Jama`ah (adherents to the Sunnah and the Muslim mainstream) unanimously agreed that Allah descends in a manner that befits Him and that He is not like His creation at all in any of His Attributes, as He states, Say (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم): “He is Allâh, (the) One. “Allâh-us-Samad (السيد الذي يصمد إليه في الحاجات) [Allâh the Self-Sufficient Master, Whom all creatures need, (He neither eats nor drinks)]. “He begets not, nor was He begotten. “And there is none co-equal or comparable unto Him.” Surah Al-Ikhlas, 112

He (Glorified and Exalted be He) also says, There is nothing like Him; and He is the All-Hearer, the All-Seer.

According to Ahl-ul-Sunnah wal-Jama`ah, we must accept the Ayahs and Hadiths that speak of the Attributes of Allah as they are without Tahrif (distortion of the meaning), Ta`til (denial of Allah’s Attributes), Takyif (descriptive designation of Allah’s Attributes), or Tamthil (likening Allah’s Attributes to those of His Creation). At the same time, we must believe in them and believe that what is mentioned in these texts is true without likening Allah to His creation or discussing the nature of His Attributes. Rather, their view concerning His Attributes is like their view concerning His Dhat (Essence). Ahl-ul-Sunnah wal-Jama`ah affirm the Essence of Allah without Takyif, or Tamthil, and thus, we must also affirm His Attributes without Takyif or Tamthil.

The descent of Allah occurs in every country in a manner that befits Allah, because the descent of Allah is not like the descent of any of His creation. He is described as descending in the last part of the night in all parts of the world in a manner that befits His Majesty, Exalted be He.No one can know how He descends just as no one can know how His Essence is, except Him.

He states, There is nothing like Him; and He is the All-Hearer, the All-Seer.Surah Al-Shura, 42: 11. Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) also says: So put not forward similitudes for Allâh (as there is nothing similar to Him, nor He resembles anything). Truly! Allâh knows and you know not.Surah Al-Nahl, 16: 74

The time of the first and last third of the night differs according to the season; if the night is nine hours long, then the time of descent begins at the onset of the seventh hour and continues until dawn. If the night is twelve hours long, then the last third begins at the beginning of the ninth hour until the break of dawn and so on, depending on how long or short the night is in each place. May Allah grant us success.

Footnotes:

[1] This was published in Al-Da`wah magazine, issue no. 1138, on 2/9/1408 A.H.

[2] Al-Bukhari, Sahih, Book on supplications, no. 6321; Muslim, Sahih, Book on travelers* Salah and Salah shortening, no. 758; Al-Tirmidhy, Sunan, Book on Salah, no. 446; Abu Dawud, Sunan, Book on Salah, no. 1315; Ibn Majah, Sunan, Book on performing Prayer and its Sunan, no. 1366; Ahmad ibn Hanbal, Musnad, vol. 2, p. 433; Malik, Al-Muwatta*, Book on call to Prayer, no. 496; and Al-Darimy, Sunan, Book on Salah, no. 1484.’

[3] Al-Bukhari, Sahih, Book on Friday, no. 1145; Muslim, Sahih, Book on travelers* Salah and Salah shortening, no. 758; Al-Tirmidhy, Sunan, Book on supplications, no. 3498; Abu Dawud, Sunan, Book on Salah, no. 1315; Ibn Majah, Sunan, Book on performing Prayer and its Sunan, no. 1366; Ahmad ibn Hanbal, Musnad, vol. 2, p. 265; Malik, Al-Muwatta*, Book on call to Prayer, no. 496; and Al-Darimy, Sunan, Book on Salah, no. 1479.

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—

The first question of Fatwa no. 19886   

Q 1: is the hour that precedes the Fajr (Dawn) Prayer considered as part of the last third of the night?   

 A: The hour that precedes the second Fajr (true dawn), which consists of 60 minutes, is part of the last third of the night and is considered to be the last hour of the last third of the night. This is because the night begins from the sunset and lasts until the emergence of the second Fajr. It is authentically reported that Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) descends to the worldly heaven in the last third of the night. It was related by Al-Bukhari in his “Sahih (Book of Authentic Hadith)”, vol. 2, p. 47, on the authority of Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said, “Our Lord, Blessed and Exalted is He, descends every night to the heaven of the world, when only the last third of the night remains and says, “Who will supplicate Me that I may respond to him; who will ask Me that I may give him; who will beg My forgiveness that I may forgive him?” Every Muslim and Muslimah is free to benefit from the blessed times and the times when supplications are answered, to supply themselves with good righteous deeds and supplicate for whatever they like from the matters of the Din (religion) or the Duniya (this world). 

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

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Summer Vacations to Europe, America & other non-Muslim countries and its Dangers – Ibn Baaz

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Warning against traveling to non-Muslim countries and outlining its dangerson `Aqidah and manners [1]

Praise be to Allah, Alone. May peace and blessings be upon whom no Prophet shall come after, our Prophet Muhammad and upon his family, Companions, and followers till the Day of Judgment.

Allah (Exalted be He) has blessed the Muslim nation with many favors, distinguished it with unique characteristics, and made it the best of peoples ever raised up for mankind when it enjoins what is good and forbids what is evil and believes in Allah (Exalted be He). Indeed, the best thing Allah (Exalted be He) bestowed upon it is the Religion of Islam. Allah (Exalted be He) chose Islam as the Shari`ah (revealed teachings and laws) and way of life for His Slaves and completed His Favor upon His Slaves and perfected the religion by Islam.

He (Exalted be He) says, This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islâm as your religion. Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5: 3

However, the enemies of Islam feel envy towards Muslims owing to this great favor and are filled with spite and rage as well as enmity and hatred toward Muslims and Islam. They wish to deprive Muslims of this favor as Allah (Exalted be He) says describing what occurs in their psyches: They wish that you reject Faith, as they have rejected Faith, and thus that you all become equal (like one another). Surah Al-Nisa’, 4: 89

Allah (Exalted be He) also says: O you who believe! Take not as (your) Bitânah (advisors, consultants, protectors, helpers, friends) those outside your religion (pagans, Jews, Christians, and hypocrites) since they will not fail to do their best to corrupt you. They desire to harm you severely. Hatred has already appeared from their mouths, but what their breasts conceal is far worse. Indeed We have made plain to you the Ayât (proofs, evidence, verses) if you understand. Surah Al-`Imran, 3: 118

Allah (Exalted be He) also says: Should they gain the upper hand over you, they would behave to you as enemies, and stretch forth their hands and their tongues against you with evil, and they desire that you should disbelieve. Surah Al-Mumtahanah, 60: 2

Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) also says: And they will never cease fighting you until they turn you back from your religion (Islâmic Monotheism) if they can. Surah Al-Baqarah, 2: 217

There are many Ayahs (Qur’anic verses) that speak about the enmity of disbelievers towards Muslims.

However, what I want to refer to here is that the disbelievers exert effort and search every way in order to realize their purposes to damage Muslims. They use numerous ways and many concealed and apparent means in order to reach their evil purposes. Among their ways is what some travel institutions do from time to time such as distributing publications which promote people in this country to spend summer holidays in Europe and America on the pretext of learning English and they offer inclusive programs for the entire time for the one who travels with them.

The following things are always included in their programs:

1- Choosing a non-Muslim family with which a student will live in spite of the great risks included in this.

2- Attending music parties and shows performed in the city where the student lives.

3- Going to dance and entertainment clubs.

4- Disco dancing with non-Muslim girls and participating in dance competitions.

5- It is mentioned about the entertainment centers in one of the non-Muslim countries that they include the following things: nightclubs, discos, jazz and rock parties, modern music, theaters, cinemas and bars.

However, these publications aim at many dangerous purposes, such as:

1- Working towards deviating the Muslim youth and leading them astray.

2- Spoiling manners and tempting people to commit adultery by making it obtainable.

3- Filling Muslims with doubts concerning their doctrine.

4- Developing in the Muslims who go there a sense of admiration and amazement with the culture of non-Muslim countries.

5- Promoting Muslim to adopt many of their bad traditions and customs.

6- Urging heedlessness towards religion and its morals and teachings.

7- Utilizing Muslims who go there so that they call others to travel to non-Muslim countries after returning from these journeys and being filled with the thoughts, customs and traditions of the disbelievers.

There are many other dangerous purposes and objectives that the enemies of Islam strive to achieve like gaining as much power as they could and using various apparent and concealed ways that serve their aims. These evil-minded people may work under Arabic names and national institutions; conspiring against Muslims, keeping suspicions away from them, and concealing their wicked aims from Islamic countries.

Therefore, I am here to warn my Muslim brothers who are living in this country in particular and in all Muslim countries against being deceived and influenced by these publications and not to respond to them. These publications are nothing but some evil-oriented plans by the enemies of Islam that aim at taking Muslims out of their religion, arousing doubts in them over their doctrine and sowing the seeds of discord among Muslims. Allah (Exalted be He) says about them in His Book, Never will the Jews nor the Christians be pleased with you (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) till you follow their religion. Surah Al-Baqarah, 2: 120

Moreover, I direct my advice to the guardians of students in particular to take care of their children and not to respond to their requests concerning traveling to non-Muslim countries owing to the expected harms and corruption in religion and manners. Praise be to Allah, we, in our countries, have education in various kinds of sciences which suffice from traveling to foreign countries. There are many places of entertainment in our country that are useful substitutes for theirs. In this way, we can protect our young people from the previously mentioned dangers, troubles, harmful results, and difficulties which are encountered in foreign countries.

I invoke Allah (Exalted be He) to protect our country and all Muslim countries and our children and Muslims’ children from every evil and harm and to save them from the conspiracies and mischief of our enemies. I supplicate Him to turn their evil plots on them and to guide our rulers and all Muslim rulers to abolish these harmful publications and dangerous reports and to guide them to all that benefits the people and the countries for He is the One Who is Capable of doing so.

May Allah’s Peace and blessings be upon His slave and Messenger, our Prophet Muhammad, his family, Companions, and followers till the Day of Judgment.

[1] Islamic Research Journal, ed. no. 16, pp. 7-10. It was issued in one of the publications of the Presidency of the Departments of Scholarly Research, Ifta’, Daw`ah, and Guidance in 1404 A.H.

Posted from: http://alifta.com with colour formatting for better presentation purposes

Read another Beautiful article No to these journeys by Ibn Baaz rahimahullaah

Restoration of Monuments might lead to Shirk – Shaykh Ibn Baaz

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Ruling on restoration of monuments

All praise be to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah, his family and Companions.

Some newspapers have published articles on reviving and paying attention to monuments, written by some authors, including Professor Salih Muhammad Jamal. These articles have been responded to by His Eminence, Shaykh `Abdullah ibn Muhammad ibn Humayd. He efficiently and instructively answered to the claims included therein, may Allah reward him. However, Professor Anwar Abul-Jadayil, may Allah guide and inspire him with what is right, was not satisfied with that reply or had not seen it. Therefore, he wrote an article on the subject, published by the ‘Madinah’ newspaper, issue number 5448, dated 22/4/1402 A.H. In this article, which is entitled “The Way of the Two Hijrahs”, he stated: “This is a review of the word published in the ‘Madinah’ newspaper, issue 5433, on 7/4/1402 A.H., by Professor `Abdul-Quddus Al-Ansary, as a commentary on the investigation done by the researcher and man of letters, Professor `Abdul-`Aziz Al-Rifa`y, of the sites which the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) passed through on his Hijrah (emigration) from Makkah to Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah. It urges us to stimulate officials to set signs indicating such posts such as, for example, two tents as close as possible to the two tents of Um Ma`bad with whatever else is suitable for the rest of posts, after taking the necessary precautions to prevent any transgression that could impart to them the tinge of sanctity or glory, and any deviation from the requirements of Shari`ah (Islamic law). For, the aim is to inform students, researchers and tourists who want to know about this path and these posts, to perceive the difficulties that the Messenger (peace be upon him) went through during this secret and covert trip.This is meant only to give lesson and example and inure people to hardships in Da`wah (calling people to Allah), following the example of the Prophet (peace be upon him).

However, side roads should be built and paved, off the main roads, with rest houses for the tourists, making it easier for people to enter the places where the Prophet (peace be upon him) passed, starting with Hira’ Cave, then Thawr, and the place where the Prophet (peace be upon him) was pursued by Suraqah ibn Malik, until we reach Quba’. This should also include the preceding sites in Makkah Al-Mukarramah, such as Dar Al-Arqam ibn Abul-Arqam, the pass where he and his family were boycotted, the pathway he assumed during the Conquest of Makkah, and then the places he stopped at in Al-Abtah, and also in Al-Hudaybiyah, Hunayn, and Badr. This also applies to sites he stopped at in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, the battlefields of the conquests, and his places of presence in their rural areas, then his path toKhaybar and to Tabuk. This is thus meant to provide people with more information about his unique efforts in spreading the Da`wah, and to teach them to follow the Prophet’s example in that regard. [End of quote]

Likewise, Dr. Faruq Akhdar recommended in his article, published in Al-Jazirah newspaper, issue number 3354, dated 13/1/1402 A.H., the development of archaeological sites in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by the Muslims on a continuing basis, to ensure income; as he alleged that petrol reserves would run out. Maintaining his viewpoint, he stated “that Christian religious tourism in the Vatican is one of the main sources of income in Italian economy. Israel sold empty bottles to the Jews in America, under the claim that such bottles were full of holy air from Al Quds.” He also pointed out that among the benefits this will bring about is that it will “Engrave knowledge about Islam in the minds of Muslim children…”

Due to the bad effects that reviving religious monuments have on the `Aqidah (creed), I wanted to clarify the truth and corroborate the writings of scholars on this issue, cooperate with those scholars in righteousness and Taqwa (fear or wariness of offending Allah), advise people for the Sake of Allah, expose suspicious points, and illustrate supporting evidence.

Hence, I would like to say that taking care of monuments in the way mentioned above would lead to Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship). This is because people’s souls are weak and are prone to cling to that which they deems beneficial. Besides, there are many types of Shirk, which are imperceptible for most people. Hence, those who stop at these monuments – whether they are real or fake monuments – will realize that ignorant people wipe themselves with the dirt of these places, and with the trees and stones therein. Those ignorant people also pray there and invoke those to whom the sites are attributed, thinking that this is a means of approaching Allah (Exalted be He), attaining Shafa`ah (intercession), and having theirs distresses relieved. Such an ignorance-based approach is maintained by misleading callers whose souls are impregnated with idolatry, and who exploit these monuments to misguide people and encourage them to visit these monuments in order to acquire some financial gains. Regretfully, there is no one at these monuments to inform people that they are meant only for people to derive an example. Rather, the opposite usually takes place.

Read More “Restoration of Monuments might lead to Shirk – Shaykh Ibn Baaz”

Building a Masjid over the site of the People of the Cave – Fatwas of Ibn Baaz

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Warning against building Masjids over graves

Fatwas of Ibn Baz :

I was asked: Is it permissible to build a Masjid over the site of the People of the Cave? 

I answered:

In the Name of Allah, all praise be to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah.

I have read the article published in the third edition of the Islamic Sciences League magazine in the “Muslim News in a Month” section.

The Islamic Sciences League, in The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, intends to build a Masjid over the site of the cave recently discovered in the village of Al-Rahib, which is said to be the cave where the People of the Cave mentioned in the Qur’an slept. End Quote.

As it is my duty to advise for the sake of Allah and His servants, I thought it would be beneficial to say a word in the same magazine of the Islamic Sciences League published in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. I must admonish the league to give up the intention of building a Masjid over the site of this cave, mainly and solely for the reason that building Masjids over the graves and remains of the Prophets and righteous people is utterly forbidden by the Shari`ah (Islamic law) and that those who do so are cursed. This is because such an act may lead to Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship) and excessive veneration and over praising of the prophets and pious people.

The reality bears witness to the validity of the texts of the Shari`ah and proves that it is revealed from Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He), and provides decisive proof of the truthfulness of the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) and the message sent down to him which he conveyed to the Ummah (nation). Whoever is aware of the conditions that exist in the Islamic world and the acts of Shirk, excessive reverence of prophets and the pious that prevail due to establishing Masjids over shrines and glorifying them by means of lavish structures and the presence of custodians to collect money from people unlawfully, will certainly know that they are avenues leading to Shirk. One of the outstanding virtues of Shari`ah is to forbid building of Masjids over graves and to warn sternly against it.

The Two Shaykhs, Al-Bukhari and Muslim (may Allah be merciful to them), narrated some Hadiths to this effect on the authority of `Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: May Allah curse the Jews and the Christians; they have taken the graves of their prophets as places of worship 

`Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said: “He warned against what they did and had it not been for this, his grave would have been raised above the ground but he feared that it would be taken as a Masjid.”

It is also related by Al-Bukhari and Muslim that  Um Salamah and Um Habibah (may Allah be pleased with them) mentioned a church they had seen in Abyssinia (Ethiopia) in which there were pictures. When they told the Prophet (peace be upon him) of this, he said, ‘When a pious person among these people died they built a place of worship over his grave and painted these pictures therein. They will be the worst of creation in the Sight of Allah

It is related in Sahih Muslim on the authority of Jundub ibn `Abdullah (may Allah be pleased with him) that he heard the Prophet (peace be upon him) five days before his death, stating: 

There are many Hadiths in this regard. Imams of Muslim scholars from the four Madh-habs (Schools of Jurisprudence) and others have stated the prohibition of building Masjids over graves. They issued the sternest warning against doing so, urging Muslims to observe the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) and advising this Ummah lest it should fall into the same excessiveness and veneration of the prophets and pious people the way its predecessors from the extremist Jews and Christians and their like who deviated from the straight path.

Thus, it is incumbent upon the Islamic Sciences League in Jordan and Muslims to adhere to the Sunnah and the way of the righteous Imams, and to be cautious not to commit what Allah and His Messenger warned against. It is the only way that leads to people’s uprightness and happiness in this world and in the Hereafter. It should be noted that some people formed their opinions based on the misinterpretation of Allah’s Statement in the story of the People of the Cave: (then) those who won their point said (most probably the disbelievers): “We verily shall build a place of worship over them.”

The answer to this is that Allah (Praised and Exalted be He) informed us about the rulers and prominent people who announced this statement. He told their story not by of expressing content and agreement with what they said, but rather as a kind of dispraise and expressing abhorrence of their action. This is even indicated by the Messenger (peace be upon him) to whom this Ayah (Qur’anic verse) was revealed and was the most knowledgeable of its interpretation, for he forbade his Ummah from building Masjids over the graves and cursed and dispraised those who do so.

If this had been permissible, the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) would not have strongly affirmed its prohibition to the extent of cursing those who did it, or describing them as the worst creatures in the Sight of Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He). This should be sufficient in pointing out the gravity implied in the matter and providing a convincing answer to those who seek the truth.

Even if we supposed that building Masjids over graves was permissible for those who preceded us, still we are not permitted to follow their example because the Shari`ah (Islamic law) abrogates all previous laws, and our Prophet (peace be upon him) is the Last of the Messengers and the Shari`ah revealed to him is comprehensive. He (peace be upon him) forbade building Masjids over graves, and as such, we are not permitted to disobey him. We must follow his example and adhere to his Sunnah and abandon what contradicts it regarding the previous Shari`ahs (Divine laws) and favorable customs followed by some people, because Allah’s Shari`ah is perfect and comprehensive and no guidance is better than that of the Prophet (peace be upon him).

Allah is the One Whom we invoke to grant all Muslims and us success and to keep us firm on the truth and help us adhere to the Sunnah of His Messenger, Muhammad (peace be upon him) in words and deeds, whether manifested or hidden, and in all our daily affairs until we meet Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He). Allah is the All-Hearer, Ever-Near and Responsive. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions and those who follow his guidance until the Day of Resurrection.

Posted from: http://alifta.com  – Fatwas of Ibn Baaz rahimahullaah

Repaying a debt in the same currency no matter whether its value increases or decreases – alifta

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Question:

I borrowed 20,000 Pakistani Rupees, which were worth 7,000 Saudi Riyals at that time, from my brother. I now want to settle my debt, but the debt of 20,000 Pakistani Rupees is now worth 2,000 Saudi Riyals. Is it permissible for me to repay him with 2,000 Riyals or do I have to give him 7,000 Riyals according to the value when I borrowed it, or is it obligatory on me to give it to him in Pakistani Rupees, the same currency that I borrowed from him?

Answer:

It is obligatory on you to return the money that you borrowed from your brother in the same currency you took it from him, regardless of whether its value has risen or fallen against other currencies.

You therefore have to give him 20,000 Pakistani Rupees, no more or less, for the 20,000 Pakistani Rupees you borrowed. You have to give him what equals its value at the time of the repayment in another currency, such as in Saudi Riyals or another currency, on the condition that it is done in one session. This is based on the answer which the Prophet (peace be upon him) gave to the inquirer who asked him whether it was permissible to sell Dirhams (a dirham of silver equals 2.975 grams of silver) for Dinars (old Arab coin that equals 2.975 grams of gold) or Dinars for Dirhams. He (peace be upon him) said, “There is nothing wrong with taking them at the current rate so long as you do not separate leaving something to be settled.”

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’

Permanent Committe . Source: http://alifta.net

# The dominance of Jinn over Humans – The Permanent Committee

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Q 2: Does the following Hadith bear evidence on the dominance of Jinn (creatures created from fire) over Humans? Abu Al-Sa’ib narrated: 

“We visited Abu Sa`id Al-Khudry in his house and while we were waiting for him (to finish his Prayer) we heard something under his bed. We looked towards the sound and found a snake. I jumped up to kill it, but he (Abu Sa`id Al-Khudry) gestured that I should sit down. I sat down and when he finished (the Prayer) he pointed to a room in the house and said: Do you see this room? I said: Yes. He said: There was a young man amongst us who was newly wed. We went with Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) to take part in the Battle of the Trench, this young man used to ask for Allah’s Messenger’s (peace be upon him) permission to return to his family everyday at midday. One day, he sought permission from him and Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) (after granting him the permission) said to him: Carry your weapons with you for I fear the tribe of Qurayzhah (may harm you). The man took his weapons and came back to find his wife standing between the two doors. He was hit by jealousy and made a dash towards her with a spear in order to stab her. She said: Keep your spear away and enter the house until you see that which has made me come out. He entered and found a big snake coiled on the bed. He darted with the spear and pierced it and then went out, but the snake quivered and attacked him and no one knew which of them died first, the snake or the young man . . . “

 (Related by Muslim in his Sahih (authentic) Book of Hadith ‘Refer to Mishkah Al-Masabih,chapter on [The lawful and the prohibited to eat]’)

A: Firstly: The Hadith is Sahih (a Hadith that has been transmitted by people known for their uprightness and exactitude; free from eccentricity and blemish) in terms of its Sanad (chain of narrators) and Matn (text).

Secondly: Adam was created from clay in human form, then his offspring propagated. Jinn were created from fire then became living beings and were divided into males and females. The Prophet (peace be upon him) was sent to both humans and Jinn, some of them believed and some disbelieved. Humans can harm Jinn with or without knowledge and Jinn can harm humans, knock them down, or kill them just as a human may harm another human. A Jinny (a creature created from fire) may harm another Jinny. Indeed, whoever denies the power of Jinn while unaware of their condition follows that of which they have no knowledge and contradicts the guidance of the Qur’an concerning their power.

Allah (Exalted be He) says: He created man (Adam) from sounding clay like the clay of pottery. And the jinn: He created from a smokeless flame of fire. He also says: And indeed We created man (Adam) out of an extract of clay (water and earth). Allah addresses them in the same manner He addresses humans in His saying: Then which of the Blessings of your Lord will you both (jinn and men) deny? And His saying: O assembly of jinn and men! If you have power to pass beyond the zones of the heavens and the earth, then pass beyond (them)! But you will never be able to pass them, except with authority (from Allâh)! Allah subjugated Jinn with their different forms to His ProphetSulayman (Solomon, peace be upon him). Allah (Exalted be He) says: So, We subjected to him the wind; it blew gently by his order whithersoever he willed, And also the Shayâtîn (devils) from the jinn (including) every kind of builder and diver, And also others bound in fetters. , He (Exalted be He) says: …and there were jinn that worked in front of him, by the Leave of his Lord. And whosoever of them turned aside from Our Command, We shall cause him to taste of the torment of the blazing Fire. He also says: And of the Shayâtîn (devils from the jinn) were some who dived for him, and did other work besides that Allah (Exalted be He) says: And (remember) when We sent towards you (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) a group (three to ten persons) of the jinn, (quietly) listening to the Qur’ân. When they stood in the presence thereof, they said: “Listen in silence!” And when it was finished, they returned to their people, as warners. They said: “O our people! Verily, we have heard a Book (this Qur’ân) sent down after Mûsâ (Moses), confirming what came before it: it guides to the truth and to the Straight Path (i.e. Islâm). O our people! Respond (with obedience) to Allâh’s Caller (i.e. Allâh’s Messenger Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم), and believe in him (i.e. believe in that which Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم has brought from Allâh and follow him). He (Allâh) will forgive you of your sins, and will save you from a painful torment (i.e. Hell-fire) And whosoever does not respond to Allâh’s Caller, he cannot escape on earth, and there will be no Auliyâ’ (lords, helpers, supporters, protectors) for him besides Allâh (from Allâh’s punishment). Those are in manifest error. He also says: And on the Day when He will gather them (all) together (and say): “O you assembly of jinn! Many did you mislead of men,” and their Auliyâ’ (friends and helpers) amongst men will say: “Our Lord! We benefited one from the other, but now we have reached our appointed term which You did appoint for us.” He will say: “The Fire be your dwelling-place, you will dwell therein forever, except as Allâh may will. Certainly your Lord is All-Wise, All-Knowing.” And thus We do make the Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers) Auliyâ’ (supporters and helpers) of one another (in committing crimes), because of that which they used to earn. Read also the Ayahs (Qur’anic verses) of Surah Al-Jinn for it tells you all about their form, actions, and the recompense of those who believed and those who disbelieved.

There is nothing strange about a Jinny hurting a human or inflicting harm on them just as a human may hurt a Jinny and inflict harm if the Jinny takes the form of an animal such as the one mentioned in the question and the Hadith related by Al-Bukharion the authority of Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: A strong demon of Jinn came to me yesterday suddenly, so as to spoil my Salah (Prayer), but Allah enabled me to overpower him, and so I caught him and intended to tie him to one of the pillars of the Masjid (mosque) so that all of you might see him, but I remembered the invocation of my brother Solomon: My Lord! Forgive me, and bestow upon me a kingdom such as shall not belong to any other after me so I let him go cursed. Generally, Jinn and humans are either Mu’mins (believers) or Kafirs (disbelievers), good or bad, beneficent or harmful but it is all by Allah’s Will as mentioned above.

Finally: The Jinn world and forms are screened from humans. It is an area where we know nothing except what is mentioned in the Qur’an or Sunnah (whatever is reported from the Prophet). We should believe in the truth conveyed in the Qur’an and Sunnah with no doubt or denial. Similarly, we should refrain from interfering with what is unknown to us, for affirming or denying things that are unwarranted in the Qur’an or Sunnah is an act of ignorance which Allah (Exalted be He) forbids: And follow not (O man i.e., say not, or do not or witness not) that of which you have no knowledge. Verily! The hearing, and the sight, and the heart, of each of those one will be questioned (by Allâh).

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’
http://www.alifta.net

Having shares in the Islaamic Bank – The Permanent Committee

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Question:

The Islaamic Bank has shares for sale and the value of each share is one hundred and ten US dollars ($110). And that which we have understood is that the bank in question does not trade in ribaa and that the money from the sale of the shares will be used in trading activities which are free from any dealings in interest. The profits will then be divided amongst the shareholders. So out of concern of falling into that which is impermissible, we request you to give a fatwa about whether this is permissible or not.

Response:

It is permissible to have shares in a bank which does not trade in ribaa, and the profits which accrue from these shares are the result of trading which is not haraam , so it is halaal.

And with Allaah lies all success and may Allaah send prayers and salutations upon our Prophet (sal-Allaahu `alayhe wa sallam) and his family and his companions.

The Permanent Committee for Islaamic Research and Fataawa, comprising –
Head: Shaykh ‘Abdul ‘Azeez ibn Abdullaah ibn Baaz;
Member: ‘Abdullaah ibn Ghudayyaan;
Member: Shaykh ‘Abdullaah Ibn Qu’ood

Fataawa al-Lajnah ad-Daa.imah lil-Buhooth al-‘Ilmiyyah wal-Iftaa. – Volume 13, Page 507, Fatwa No.4512

The Ruling about having shares in companies and banks – The Permanent Committee

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Question:

What is the ruling about having shares in companies and banks’? And is it permissible for a shareholder (in a company or a bank) to sell shares, specifically after he has become a shareholder himself, to offices dealing in buying and selling (stockbrokers)? And from that which is possible is selling them (the shares) for more than the price that the shareholder paid. So what is the ruling about the profit which the shareholder makes every year from the value of the shares bought?

Response:

Having shares in banks and companies that trade in ribaa is not permissible. And if the shareholder wants to rid himself of any ribaa in his shareholding, then he should sell his shares at market value and take the initial investment only. The rest he should give in charity, and it is not permissible for him to take anything from the profits of his shareholding or interest. However, if the shareholding was in a company which does not trade in ribaa, then it’s profits are halaal.

And with Allaah lies all success and may Allaah send prayers and salutations upon our Prophet (sal-Allaahu `alayhe wa sallam) and his family and his companions.

The Permanent Committee for Islaamic Research and Fataawa, comprising –
Head: Shaykh ‘Abdul ‘Azeez ibn Abdullaah ibn Baaz;
Member: ‘Abdullaah ibn Ghudayyaan;
Member: Shaykh ‘Abdullaah Ibn Qu’ood
Fataawa al-Lajnah ad-Daa.imah lil-Buhooth al-‘Ilmiyyah wal-Iftaa. – Volume 13, Page 508, Fatwa No.8996

Ruling on performing Umrah before Obligatory Hajj – Permanent Committee

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Fatawa from Permanent Committee

Q3: Is it permissible for a person to perform `Umrah before the obligatory Hajj?

A: Yes, it is permissible for a person to perform `Umrah before Hajj because the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his Companions performed `Umrah before the obligatory Hajj.

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’
Source:http://www.alifta.com/

Q 11: What is the ruling on a person who performs `Umrah (lesser pilgrimage) before Hajj, although the former is only an act of Sunnah?

A: The correct view of the two rulings of the scholars is that `Umrah is obligatory, because Allah states:Surah Al-Baqarah, 2: 196 And perform properly (i.e. all the ceremonies according to the ways of Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him) the Hajj and ‘Umrah (i.e. the pilgrimage to Makkah) for Allâh. There are also other Hadiths narrated in this regard. If a Muslim performs `Umrah before Hajj during the months of Hajj and performs Hajj in the same year, then he has performed Tamattu` Hajj (combining Hajj and `Umrah with a break in between) which is better than the Ifrad Hajj (performing Hajj only) and Qiran Hajj (combining Hajj and `Umrah simultaneously) for the one who has not brought a hadiy with him. It is reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) told the Sahabah (Companions of the Prophet) who did not bring sacrificial animals: Make it `Umrah, for if I had formerly known what I came to know lately, I would not have driven the Hadiy with me and would have finished the state of Ihram along with the people when they finished it.

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’

Source: http://www.alifta.com/

Salat-ul-Kusuf (Prayer on a solar eclipse) and Salat-ul-Khusuf (Prayer on a lunar eclipse)

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The fifth question of Fatwa no. 9527
Q 5: How many Rak‘ahs (units of Prayer) are there in Salat-ul-Khusuf (Prayer on a lunar eclipse)? And what is to be recited in them?

A: Salat-ul-Kusuf (Prayer on a solar eclipse) and Salat-ul-Khusuf (Prayer on a lunar eclipse) are each comprised of two Rak‘ahs (units of Prayer). Recitation in both Salahs (Prayers) is performed out loud. In each Rak‘ah, there are two Ruku‘s (bowing), the second of which is always shorter than the first, and there are also two recitations. After the Takbirat-ul-Ihram (saying: “Allahu Akbar [Allah is the Greatest]” upon starting Prayer), Surah Al-Fatihah and a long Surah are recited. After the first Ruku‘, Surah Al-Fatihah and a long Surah are recited, which is shorter than the preceding recitation. There are two Sujuds (Prostrations) in each Rak‘ah. This is the most authentic report mentioned regarding this Salah.

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’
Deputy Chairman     Chairman
`Abdul-Razzaq `Afify     `Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz
Source : alifta.net

How should Salat-ul-Kusuf be done? Fatwas of Ibn Baz – alifta.net

Q: How should Salat-ul-Kusuf (Prayer on a solar eclipse) and Salat-ul-Khusuf (Prayer on a lunar eclipse) be performed? Is there any difference between them? What is your opinion on the reports published by the papers about the timings of a solar or lunar eclipse?

A: There are authentic Hadith in which the Prophet (peace be upon him) showed how Salat-ul-Kusuf can be performed. He (peace be upon him) ordered that people should be called to it by announcing as-salatu jami’ah “‘Gather for Salah”.

The most authentic reports concerning this Salah show that it consists of two Rak’ahs and that in each Rak’ah one should make two recitations and perform two Ruku’ (bowings) and two Sujud (prostrations). The person should make lengthy recitation, Ruku’ and Sujud. The first recital and Ruku’ should be longer than the second ones. Similarly, the recitation in the second Rak`ah should be shorter than the second recital in the first Rak`ah. The person should make Ruku’ in the second Rak`ah for a shorter time than the two Ruku’ in the first one. During the second Rak`ah, the person should make a second recital and Ruku’ for a shorter time than the first in the same Rak`ah.

As for the two Sujud, it is a Sunnah (recommended) to be lengthy providing that this does not cause any difficulty to the Ma’mums because this was the Prophet’s (peace be upon him) way.

Upon completing Salah, the Imam, if he is knowledgeable, is allowed to give a sermon and tell people that the solar and lunar eclipse are two signs of Allah (Exalted be He) by which He frightens His servants. The Muslims, upon seeing it, are prescribed to offer Salah, remember Allah (Exalted be He), make Du`a’ and Takbir, give in charity and emancipate a believing slave until the end of the eclipse. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, <<Verily the sun and the moon are two signs among the signs of Allah by which He frightens His servants and they do not eclipse on account of the death or birth of anybody>>. So when you see either of them, observe Prayer, and supplicate Allah (may He be Exalted) till it is cleared from you. Another narration reads, <<So whenever you see them, haste to remember Allah, invoke Him and ask Him for forgiveness.>> It is narrated in some Hadith that the person should give in charity and emancipate slaves.

The astronomical reports about the timing of the eclipse must not be taken as the basis for offering Salat-ul-Kusuf. Some people of knowledge, including Shaykh-ul-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah and his knowledgeable disciple Ibn Al-Qayyim, may Allah be merciful with both of them, supported this view saying that the astronomers may sometimes be wrong and then these reports are not reliable and people should not offer Salat-ul-Kusuf depending on them. Rather, they have to offer the Salah upon seeing the eclipse when it is happening.

The publications of the astronomers’ reports about the timing of eclipse should be banned by the Ministry of Information lest some people should be deceived by them. These publications may make people feel less fear upon seeing the eclipse. Allah (Exalted be He) has made them to be frightening and hence, people remember, fear, invoke Allah, and treat their slaves well. May Allah grant us success!

Source : Browse by Volume Number > Volume 13 > Completion of the Book of Salah (Prayer) > Salat-ul-Kusuf > the manner of Salat Al-Kusuf

Eclipse Prayer can be done individually or in congregation

Question: Do we have to pray Salaatul Khusoof (eclipse prayer) even if we do not witness it? And are there any specific ad’iyah (pl. duâaa) that we have to say in the day or during the eclipse?

Answer: The Prophet صلى الله عليه و سلم said: “The sun and the moon are two signs from the signs of Allaah. They do not eclipse for the death of anyone neither their life (i.e. birth). Allaah uses these to strike fear into His slaves. So when you see them offer the prayer and supplicate until the eclipse passes away.”[1] If someone establishes that an eclipse is present then he should pray the Eclipse Prayer (Salaatul Khusoof), whether he has to pray it individually or in congregation and similarly whether it is a man or a woman. It is performed as described in the Shareeâah (Legislation).

Answered by: Abdullaah Abdur-Rahmaan Al-Ghudayyaan
Title of Lecture: The Four Principles by Muhammad ibn Abdul-Wahhaab
Date of the Lecture: May 6, 2006
[1] Reported by An-Nisaaee 3/152, Shaikh Al-Albaanee رحمه الله says Saheeh in Sunan An-Nisaaâee (#1502).

Related Links:

  1. Performing Salat-ul-Khusuf at times forbidden for supererogatory Salah – Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb
  2. Repeating Salat-ul-Kusuf if it has not passed – Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb
  3. Catching a Rak`ah of Salat-ul-Kusuf – Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

Istikharah : Prayer For Seeking Guidance – Permanent Committee

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When is the proper time for Du`a’ Al-Istikharah (supplication for guidance); before or after Taslim (salutation of peace ending the Prayer)?

A: Du`a’ Al-Istikharah should be said after Taslim.

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’

http://alifta.net/Fatawa/FatawaChapters.aspx?View=Page&PageID=2603&PageNo=1&BookID=7

Q14: When performing Du`a’ Al-Istikharah (supplication for guidance) in regard to an action or a need, is it conditional to have memorized the Du`a reported from Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) or is it possible to read it from a book after finishing Salah (Prayer)? After performing the Du`a’, how can it be known or felt that Allah (may He be Praised and Exalted) is guiding the supplicant to do or to abandon something? Please, advise.

A: Whether you memorize the Du`a’ Al-Istikharah or read it from a book, it is accepted as the matter is flexible. What you should do is to strive to prepare your heart and attain Khushu` (the heart being attuned to the act of worship), and be sincere in the Du`a’. Afterwards, it is permissible to consult reliable and experienced people. When you feel that your heart feels at ease with one of the two possibilities, this is the sign that this is what Allah has chosen for you.

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

Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’

Q: Our Prophet (peace be upon him) taught us Salat-ul-Istikharah (Prayer for guidance); I hope that Your Eminence would point out to us the conditions concerning anyone who performs Istikharah in behalf of another person, if this is permissible.

A: It is prescribed for every person to perform Salat-ul-Istikharah for themselves, and it is not permissible on part of a certain person to perform it in behalf of another.

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

Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’

http://alifta.net/Fatawa/FatawaChapters.aspx?View=Page&PageID=11384&PageNo=1&BookID=7

Q 1: If one performs Salat-ul-Istikharah (prayer for guidance) before proceeding with an important matter such as marriage, applying for a job, etc. then begins to comply with the direction of such Salah (Prayer), can one be afflicted by evil or any calamity after that? If so, what must be done in this case?

A: Performing Salat-ul-Istikharah is enjoined for matters wherein a person is unclear. The aim of Salat-ul-Istikharah is to leave one’s affairs to Allah (may He be Glorified and Exalted) and ask Him to choose what is best for one’s faith and worldly matters. However, if a person performs Salat-ul-Istikharah after which there is a negative result; it must be understood that this is for achieving a wisdom that Allah wills and that in the negative result there is real goodness.

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’

http://alifta.net/Fatawa/FatawaChapters.aspx?View=Page&PageID=11385&PageNo=1&BookID=7

Q: First, is it permissible to intend to pray Salat-ul-Istikharah (prayer for guidance) after starting to pray the Sunnah Ratibah (supererogatory Prayer performed on a regular basis) or Nafila (supererogatory) Salah such as Tahiyyat-ul-Masjid (two-unit-Prayer to greet the mosque)? Or Should my intention be specifically for offering Salat-ul-Istikharah only?

Second, is it permissible to raise the hands while performing Du`a’ (supplication)?

Third, is it permissible for me to offer Salat-ul-Istikharah for more than one matter?

Fourth, is it permissible for me to perform Du`a’-ul-Istikharah (supplication for guidance) regarding the time of offering `Umrah (lesser pilgrimage), such as saying: “O’ Allah, if You know that there is goodness in my going to perform `Umrah on that night, and then state a certain time”; or is Istikharah itself not related to acts of obedience and their time of performance?

Fifth, is it true concerning what people say that if a person offers Du`a’-ul-Istikharah, they will see in a dream or feel inner relief or abhorrence towards the matter for which they made Istikharah; then act according to what they feel assured about. What is the benefit in knowing that all goodness is in acting according to what results from Istikharah?

I ask Allah with His Most-High Names and Most Beautiful Attributes to bless you and admit you to Jannah (Paradise) with the Prophets, the Siddiqûn (followers of the Prophets who were first and foremost to believe in them, like Abu Bakr As-Siddîq may Allah be pleased with him), the martyrs, and the righteous. And how excellent these companions were!

A: First, Salat-ul-Istikharah (prayer for guidance) should be independent, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: If anyone of you intends to do something, they should offer a two-Rak‘ah prayer other than the compulsory prayers…

Second, It is permissible for you while offering Du`a’-ul-Istikharah to raise the hands, because the Prophet (peace be upon him) used to do so on passionately offering Du`a’ (supplication).

Third, It is permissible for one to offer a single Istikharah for more than one matter.

Fourth, As far as `Umrah is concerned, you should perform Istikharah concerning the time of performing it, not whether to perform it or not.

Fifth, There is no validity to what is said that Istikharah is related to having a particular vision; rather, one should act upon the matter which one’s heart is receptive to, and vice versa. This is the correct manner to either go ahead with a certain matter or not.

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’

http://alifta.net/Fatawa/FatawaChapters.aspx?View=Page&PageID=11386&PageNo=1&BookID=7

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