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Tag: Fatwas of Ibn Baz

Majmoo al-Fatawa of Imam Ibn Baz (rahimahullah) – English Translations [30 Volumes]

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English Translations of Majmoo’al-Fatawa of Imam Ibn Baz (rahimahullah)
He was The Mufti of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars,
and Chairman of Department of Scholarly Research andIfta’

Click on the Volume No. to read or download the PDF

Volume 01 | 02 | 03 | 04 | 05 | 06 | 07 | 08 | 09 | 10
Volume 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20
Volume 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30

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Fatawa – alifta (main page):
https://abdurrahman.org/fatawa-alifta

Learning Allah’s Names & Attributes is one of the best acts of worship that brings us nearer to Allah – Imam Ibn Baz

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Bismillaah

37- Merits of learning Allah’s Names and Attributes

Q: A questioner from Hadhramaut is asking about ‘Aqidah (creed): Your Eminence, is learning the Attributes of Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) Wajib (obligatory) or Mustahab (desirable)? Does learning these Attributes make any difference? What is the ruling on those who believe that it is not Wajib to learn the Attributes because this might entangle one into asking why and what? What are the books you recommend in this regard?

Ans by Imam Ibn Baz (rahimahullaah):

Learning Allah’s Names and Attributes from the Noble Qur’an and the purified Sunnah (whatever is reported from the Prophet) is one of the best acts of worship that brings us nearer to Allah. Learning Allah’s Names and Attributes helps one to glorify, praise and call on Allah by His Names and Attributes.

Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) says: “And (all) the Most Beautiful Names belong to Allâh, so call on Him by them)”

This indicates that we should know Allah’s Names and Attributes and use them while calling on Him.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) stated:

“Allah has ninety-nine Names; anyone who learns them will be admitted to Jannah (Paradise).”

This Hadith indicates that Allah is Witr (‘Odd’, i.e. He is one) and He loves odd numbers.  It also indicates that scholars and believers should learn the Names and Attributes of Allah to invoke and praise Him and act upon them so that they enter Jannah.

A believer should know that to Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) belongs all Magnificent Names and that He has no peer, equal or rival. He is Perfect in His Essence, His Names, His Attributes and His Deeds and none is comparable to Him. Allah (Glorified be He) says: (There is nothing like Him; and He is the All-Hearer, the All-Seer.) None of Allah’s Attributes such as His Mercy, Highness, Istiwa’ (Allah’s rising over the Throne in a manner that befits Him), Wrath , Laughter etc, is similar to ours.

As for the books we recommend in this regard, the Noble Qur’an is the greatest Book. We advise you and all Muslims to adhere to it and recite it frequently because it is the Book of Allah which contains light and guidance. Allah (Exalted be He) says:

“Verily, this Qur’ân guides to that which is most just and right“

And: (Say: “It is for those who believe, a guide and a healing.”)

And: ((This is) a Book (the Qur’an) which we have sent down to you, full of blessings, that they may ponder over its Verses, and that men of understanding may remember.)

And: “Do they not then think deeply in the Qur’ân, or are their hearts locked up (from understanding it)?)”.

We advise all Muslims to frequently recite, ponder over, and memorize the entire Qur’an or parts thereof. It is the Book of Allah and the source of light and guidance. It calls for adopting good morals, performing righteous deeds, following that which Allah has enjoined, and avoiding that which He has forbidden. It contains the stories of the prophets, messengers, and the righteous so that people may follow in their footsteps and the stories of the wrongdoers, so people may avoid their deeds.

We also recommend those who are versed to read the books of Hadith such as the Two Sahihs (authentic) Books of Hadith (i.e. Al-Bukhari and Muslim) and the four Sunan (Hadith compilations classified by jurisprudential themes) books (of Imams Abu Dawud, Al-Tirmidhy, Al-Nasa’y and Ibn Majah).

However, we recommend novices to read the abridged versions of these books which can be easily memorized, such as, Bulugh Al-Maram by Al-Hafidh ibn Hajar Al-Asqalani, Kitab Al-Tawhid, Thalathat Al-Usul, Al Qawa’id Al ‘Arba’, and Kashf Al-Shubuhat by Shaykh Muhammad ibn ‘Abdul-Wahhab (may Allah be merciful to him), Al-`Aqidah Al-Wasatiyyah by Shaykh Al-Islam ibn Taymiyyah, and Umdat Al-Hadith by Shaykh Al-Hafidh Abdul Ghani Al-Maqdisi. These are some important books which should be read and studied because they are useful.

(Part No. 1; Page No. 102-104)

Source: English Translations of Collection of “Noor ala Al-Darb” Programs, Volume 1. By: Sheikh `Abdul `Aziz Bin `Abdullah ibn `AbdulRahman ibn Bazz (May Allah forgive and reward al-Firdouse to him and his parents). He was The Mufti of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars, and Chairman of Department of Scholarly Research and Ifta’.

This English Translation is collected from alifta.net, Portal of the general Presidency of Scholarly Research and Ifta’

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Sunnah (supererogatory) Salah of Wudu – Imam Ibn Baz

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Bismillaah

(Part No. 11; Page No. 58)

27- Ruling on performing the Sunnah of Wudu’ during a time when it is not permissible to offer supererogatory Salah

Q: Depending on the indication of the Hadith reported by Bilal (may Allah be pleased with him): Whenever I perform Wudu’ (ablution), I offer a two-Rak’ah (unit of Prayer) Salah after it) I sometimes perform Wudu’ during a time when it is not permissible to offer supererogatory Salah, such as the times after the ‘Asr (Afternoon) Prayer, after the Fajr (Dawn) Prayer, or during sunset or sunrise. Will I be blamed if I perform the two Rak’ah Salah of Wudu then? May Allah reward you with the best!

A: Wudu’ is Mustahab (desirable) and offering Salah is Mustahab, so whenever a person performs Wudu’, it is recommended to pray the two-Rak’ah Salah of Wudu’ at any time, even during the times when it is not permissible to offer supererogatory Salah, because the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said:

“Whoever performs Wudu like this Wudu’ of mine and then prays a two-Rak’ah Salah without being distracted with worldly matters during them will have their previous sins forgiven.)”

This means that whenever he (peace be upon him) performed Wudu’, he would pray the two-Rak’ah Salah of Wudu’ and would encourage people to pray them, may Allah’s Peace and Blessings be upon him. This Salah is called the Sunnah (supererogatory) Salah of Wudu’.

Therefore, there is nothing wrong with praying this Salah during the time when it is not permissible to offer supererogatory Salah, because it is a stressed Sunnah.

Q: A questioner from Bahrain asks: Is it permissible for me to offer Salah (Prayer) at the time when it is not permissible to offer supererogatory Salah? For example, I may hasten to perform Wudu’ (ablution) and start reciting the Qur’an and supplication, especially on Fridays after the ‘Asr (Afternoon) Prayer, knowing that I do not perform Wudu’ for Salah, but I do it for supplication as mentioned.

A: If one performs Wudu’ during the time when it is not permissible to offer supererogatory Salah, one may offer the Sunnah (supererogatory act of worship) of Wudu’ (ablution), as there is no forbidden time for it. So, when performing Wudu’ after Fajr (Dawn) Prayer or after Asr Prayer, it is prescribed to offer two Rak ahs (unit of Prayer) as Sunnah of Wudu’. This applies to both males and females.

Similarly, when entering the Masjid after ‘Asr or Fajr Prayer, it is prescribed to offer two Rak’ahs as Tahiyyat-ul-Masjid (two-unit-Prayer to greet the mosque) and there is no restriction regarding the time of these ceremonial Salahs; it may be offered during the time when it is impermissible to offer supererogatory Salah.

The same equally applies to the Salat-ul-Kusuf (Prayer on a solar eclipse) when a solar eclipse takes place after ‘Asr Prayer. Muslims should perform Salat-ul-Kusuf, because this Salah is one of the ceremonial Salahs that are offered for specific reasons and there is no restriction imposed regarding the time when these Salahs are offered.

(Part No. 11; Page No. 61)

Thus, it is permissible to perform these ceremonial Salahs that are offered for specific reasons even during the time when it is impermissible to offer supererogatory Salah.

29- Ruling on postponing the Sunnah of Wudu’

Q: A female questioner says: Should the Sunnah (supererogatory Prayer) of Wudu’ (ablution) be offered immediately after Wudu’ or is it permissible to postpone it due to some affairs while holding the intention of performing it after finishing my work? Which of these two practices is better; to perform it immediately or postpone it until I finish my work? May Allah reward you with the best!

A: It is better to hasten to perform the two-Rak’ah (unit of Prayer) Salah (Prayer) immediately after Wudu’, and if a person is occupied with work and thus prays it after that, this is acceptable. Both cases are good, but it is better to perform the Salah immediately.

Source: English Translations of Collection of “Noor ala Al-Darb” Programs, Volume 11. By: Sheikh `Abdul `Aziz Bin `Abdullah ibn `AbdulRahman ibn Bazz (May Allah forgive and reward al-Firdouse to him and his parents). He was The Mufti of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars, and Chairman of Department of Scholarly Research and Ifta’.

This English Translation is collected from alifta.net, Portal of the general Presidency of Scholarly Research and Ifta’

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Slaughtering animal upon constructing a new house – Imam Ibn Baz

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Bismillaah

Slaughtering animals upon building houses

Q: In our residential area, people are accustomed to slaughtering an animal upon starting or finishing the construction of a house. Neighbors and relatives are invited on this occasion. What is Your Eminence’s opinion about this practice? Is there any recommendable act to be performed before going to live in a new house? Benefit us may Allah reward you well!

(Part No. 2; Page No. 29)

Ans by Imam Ibn Baz (rahimahullaah):

This practice needs to be clarified.

If by slaughtering the animal the owners of the house seek to protect themselves from jinn or ensure that the house is safe to live in or any similar issue, this practice will be considered an act of Bid’ah (innovation in religion).

If the slaughter is offered for the sake of the jinn, then it will be considered an act of major Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship) as it involves offering an act of Ibadah (worship) to someone other than Allah.

However, if by doing this, one intends to show gratitude to Allah’s Blessings for reaching the roof or completion of construction works there is nothing wrong with this and with inviting the relatives and neighbors. This is the custom of many people who offer thanks to Allah due to Him helping them construct a house of their own instead of renting a house to live in. There is nothing wrong in this.

If the intention behind this is to protect oneself from jinn or to fulfill any other non-Islamic purpose, then this practice is impermissible.

This practice will be valid only if the intention is to show gratitude to Allah for enabling one to construct a house of their own. This practice is similar to being hospitable to one’s relatives and neighbors.This is also similar to holding a marriage banquet.

A similar practice is performed when people return from travel when animals are sacrificed and relatives are entertained. It was the Prophet’s (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) regular practice that upon returning from a journey he would slaughter a camel and invite people to dine with him.

(Part No. 2; Page No. 30)

Source: English Translations of Collection of “Noor ala Al-Darb” Programs, Volume 2. By: Sheikh `Abdul `Aziz Bin `Abdullah ibn `AbdulRahman ibn Bazz (May Allah forgive and reward al-Firdouse to him and his parents). He was The Mufti of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars, and Chairman of Department of Scholarly Research and Ifta’.

This English Translation is collected from alifta.net, Portal of the general Presidency of Scholarly Research and Ifta’

The Relationship between the Mind and the Soul – Imam Ibn Baz

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Bismillaah

32- Description of the relationship between the mind and the soul

Q: Human beings have both minds and souls. Can the soul oppose or agree with the mind? Is there a relationship between both the soul and the mind? Or does each of them operate independently?

Ans by Imam Ibn Baz (rahimahullaah):

The mind and the soul are one entity. The mind thinks, considers and contemplates through the soul. If the soul departs the body, every other thing stops to be. While the soul is in the body, the mind thinks and distinguishes between good and evil, as the mind operates through the soul. Therefore, one can think, consider, plan, and decide as long as his soul resides in his body. When it is gone, one cannot think anymore.

(Part No. 1; Page No. 89)

Source: English Translations of Collection of “Noor ala Al-Darb” Programs, Volume 1. By: Sheikh `Abdul `Aziz Bin `Abdullah ibn `AbdulRahman ibn Bazz (May Allah forgive and reward al-Firdouse to him and his parents). He was The Mufti of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars, and Chairman of Department of Scholarly Research and Ifta’.

This English Translations are collected from alifta.net, Portal of the general Presidency of Scholarly Research and Ifta’

Making Du’a (supplication) to the dead – Imam Ibn Baz

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Bismillaah

31-Ruling on making Du’a’ the dead

Q: What is the ruling on those who make Du’a’ (supplication) to the dead?

Ans by Imam Ibn Baz (rahimahullaah):

Those who make Du`a’ (supplication) to the dead are Mushriks (those who associate others with Allah in His Divinity or worship). If they make Du’a’ to the dead, idols, trees, stones, angels or jinn, they will be regarded as Kafirs (disbelievers) as making Du’a’ to all these leads to one thing; namely, Kufr (disbelief that takes the Muslim out of Islam),

One thing that can be excluded from this ruling which is seeking help from his fellow Muslim brother or non-Muslim like buying a commodity from a non-Muslim, asking him to build a shop or mend a car while the person while he is alive. This case is considered to be exceptional and is not a kind of Shirk. It is similar to what Allah (Exalted be He) mentions in the story of Musa (Moses): (The man of his own) party asked him for help against his foe)

If one asks his fellow Muslim brother or the non-Muslim, who is present, to do something for him like building a house, mending the car, or plowing the land in return for something, or they agree upon doing something that is legally permitted, there will be nothing wrong as all these things are normal and can be done by human beings who are alive and present.

But what is Munkar (that which is unacceptable or disapproved of by Islamic law and Muslims of sound intellect) is making Du’a’ to those who are not present and cannot hear him, the dead or a living person whom he thinks to be supernatural and has a mysterious power. This understanding leads him to think that if he makes Du’a’ to this person for forgiveness and admittance to paradise, he will be able to do this because of something secret about this person. This is Munkar even if the person who is invoked besides Allah (Exalted be He) is living.

There are many Sufis who worship their Shaykhs and their senior and prestigious persons who are dead. They ask them for help and make Du’a’ to them to cure the sick. All these things are considered to be major Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship) even if the person whom they make Du`a’ to is alive because they ask him something beyond his abilities. This behavior differs from asking a person to lend you something, build a house for you, cultivate some land, mend a car, bring your belongings from the car, and so on. All these things are normal and contain there is nothing wrong in them.

(Part No. 2; Page No.93)

Source: English Translations of Collection of “Noor ala Al-Darb” Programs, Volume 2. By: Sheikh `Abdul `Aziz Bin `Abdullah ibn `AbdulRahman ibn Bazz (May Allah forgive and reward al-Firdouse to him and his parents). He was The Mufti of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars, and Chairman of Department of Scholarly Research and Ifta’.

This English Translations are collected from alifta.com , Portal of the general Presidency of Scholarly Research and Ifta’

What is the correct way to sincerely dedicate one’s deeds to Allah? – Imam Ibn Baaz

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Bismillaah

23- Sincerity in dedicating one’s deeds to Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He)

Q: Sister M. H. from Makkah Al-Mukarramah asks: What is the correct way to sincerely dedicate one’s deeds to Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He)? How can deeds be done sincerely for His sake?

Answer by Imam Ibn Baaz (rahimahullah):

To act sincerely, a person must turn to Allah (Exalted be He) and have an attentive heart. A person should perform all deeds such as Salah (Prayer), Sawm (Fast), Sadaqah (voluntary charity), Hajj (Major Pilgrimage), Umrah (Minor Pilgrimage), and so on, seeking the Pleasure of Allah, salvation from the Hellfire, and attainment of Allah’s Mercy and Forgiveness.

Sincerity is to seek the Pleasure of Allah (Exalted be He), to draw close to Him, to hope for His Mercy, to have one’s deeds accepted, to be saved from Hellfire, and to be admitted to Jannah (Paradise), not for the purposes of Riya’ (showing-off) or enhancement of one’s reputation. A believer should perform deeds for the sake of Allah (Exalted be He) in order to attain salvation in the Hereafter, to be saved from the Hellfire, and to be granted absolution. Hence, every believer, male and female, should dedicate all their deeds to Allah seeking His Pleasure so that Allah may accept their deeds.

(Part No. 1; Page No. 78)

Source: English Translations of Collection of “Noor ala Al-Darb” Programs, Volume 1. By: Sheikh `Abdul `Aziz Bin `Abdullah ibn `AbdulRahman ibn Bazz (May Allah forgive and reward al-Firdouse to him and his parents). He was The Mufti of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars, and Chairman of Department of Scholarly Research and Ifta’.

This English Translations are collected from alifta.com , Portal of the General Presidency

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Muslims who will enter Jannah (Paradise) without being called to account – Imam Ibn Baz

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Bismillaah

1- Muslims who will enter Jannah without being called to account

Q: Is it true that some Muslims will enter Jannah (Paradise) without being called to account?

A: Yes, it is true, The Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) is reported to have said:

(“All the nations were shown to me, and I saw a prophet accompanied by a small group of his followers, another with two or three people of his followers and a third not accompanied by any follower.”

At the end of the Hadith, the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) said:

“Among my Ummah there are seventy thousand who would enter Jannah without being brought to account or being punished.”

When the Sahabah (Companions of the Prophet) asked who these people were, the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) replied:

“They are those who do not seek Ruqyah (recitation for healing or protection); they are those who do not get themselves cauterized; and they are those who do not believe in bad omens; rather, they put their trust in their Lord.”

The Hadith implies that the Mu’min (believer), who continues obeying Allah’s commands and avoiding His prohibitions until death, will enter Jannah without being held accountable for their deeds and without suffering punishment.

Falling under this category are the Mu’mins who do not ask others to recite Ruqyah over them. There is nothing wrong, however, if they themselves are accustomed to reciting Ruqyahs over other Muslims. This is because one who recites Ruqyah basically does a good deed by asking Allah (Exalted be He) to cure the illness of the person for whom they recite the Ruqyah. This is based on the authentic Hadith in which the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) is reported to have said: (Whosoever among you is able to benefit his fellow believer, let him do so.)

Istirqa‘ means to ask others to recite Ruqyah for you. For example, you may ask a person to recite Rygyah for you. It is better not to ask others for Ruqyah unless one happens to be suffering from an ailment, In this case, it is not wrong to ask others to recite Ruqyah. It has been reported that the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) asked Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) saying: (Seek healing through asking for Ruqyah) The Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) ordered her to treat herself by means of asking others for Ruqyah, He also ordered Asma’ bint Umays to recite Ruqyah to the children of Jafar when they were under the influence of the evil eye. The Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) is also reported to have said: (There is no Ruqyah (reciting Qur’an and supplicating over the sick seeking healing) better than that which is said as a treatment for an evil eye or (a sting of) a venomous animal.” It is not wrong to seek treatment by means of Istirqa’ when necessary. However, it is better not to resort to such means if it is possible to cure oneself by means of some other kind of medicine.

It is also better not to treat oneself by means of cauterization if another means of treatment is available. This is based on the Hadith in which the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) is reported to have said: (The best of all remedies are three; cauterization, drinking honey, and cupping, yet I hate to be cauterized.)

In another version it states: (..and I forbid my Ummah (nation) from cauterization.) This denotes that cauterization should be used as a last resort when all other means prove unsuccessful. It is better to seek treatment by other means if possible. The Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) is reported to have cauterized some of his Sahabah. However, cauterization may only be resorted to when necessary. It is, however, better to apply another means of treatment like drinking honey, cupping, or reciting the Qur’an, The Prophet’s (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) statement: (They are those who do not seek Ruqyah; they are those who do not get themselves cauterized…) does not denote that seeking Ruqyah or cauterization are prohibited; rather, it denotes that one may resort to other means of treatment in preference to these kinds. However, if one is forced by necessity to seek Ruqyah or cauterization, there is nothing wrong with that.

“They are these who do not believe in bad omens“: Believing in the occurrence of evil omens, a custom practiced by the pre-Islamic Arabs, constitutes an act of Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship).

Among the characteristics of the seventy thousand Muslims who will enter Jannah without being called to account is that they avoid the prohibited practice of believing in bad omens and the reprehensible practice of seeking Ruqyah and cauterization when there is no need for them.

The statement “They put their trust in their Lord,” means that such Muslims avoid these things because they put their trust in Allah (Exalted be He) and seek to attain His Pleasure. The statement implies that they steadfastly obedient to Allah (Exalted be He) and they avoid not only what He has declared as prohibited but also some of what He has declared as permissible if there is something better than it. By doing so, they hope for Allah’s Reward and fear His Punishment. They draw near to Him through doing deeds that He loves and do so with their hearts filled with trust and confidence in Him (Glorified and Exalted be He),

According to another similar Hadith, it was stated: (An extra number of seventy thousand Muslims will enter Jannah with every thousand…) According to another Hadith: (Allah promised to increase the number by as many as three Handfuls added by my Lord, Glorified be He.) This increase in number is known to none but Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He).

To summarize, every upright Mu’min who avoids Allah’s Prohibitions and does not allow themselves to go beyond the limits set by Allah (Exalted be He) will be counted among the seventy thousand Muslims who will enter Jannah without Allah calling them to account or consigning them to punishment.

Q: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) is reported to have said that seventy thousand Muslims will enter Jannah without being called to account and without suffering punishment. When the Sahabah (may Allah be pleased with them) inquired about their characteristics, the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) told them that they are those who do not seek Ruqyah, those who do not get themselves cauterized, and those who do not believe in bad omen. We ask Your Eminence to clarify these characteristics so that we may develop them.

A: The Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) is reported to have said that seventy thousand people of his Ummah (nation) will enter Jannah without being called to account and without suffering punishment. In another Hadith, it was stated: (An extra number of seventy thousand Muslims will enter Jannah with every thousand.,.)

When the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) was asked about their characteristics, he said: (They are those who do not seek Ruqyah from others, those who do not get themselves cauterized, and those who do not believe in bad omens; rather, they put their trust in their Lord.)

The Hadith refers to pious and faithful Muslims who adhere steadfastly to Allah’s Din (religion), those who worship Allah Alone, those who fulfill their religious duties, those who avoid His Prohibitions and strive hard to do good to the point that they decline to do what is permissible, yet undesirable, like seeking Ruqyah and cauterization. This perfects their Iman (faith). They do not ask others to make Ruqyah for them nor do they get themselves cauterized. It is better not to resort to seeking Ruqyah or cauterization unless under necessity. The Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) ordered ‘Aishah to treat herself by means of seeking Ruqyah. He also ordered Asma’ bint Umays to treat her children by means of seeking Ruqyah when they were under the influence of the evil eye. This indicates that seeking Ruqyah is permissible only when necessary. However, it is better not to treat oneself by means of Istirqa’ or cauterization if another means of treatment is available, Some of the Sahabah were treated by means of cauterization. Khabbab ibn Al-Arat and other Sahabah were also treated by means of cauterization, The Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) is also reported to have used cauterization as a means of treating the sickness of some of his Sahabah. Having oneself cauterized does not necessarily mean that one will not be counted among the seventy thousand people who will enter Jannah without being held accountable for their deeds. However, one of their good characteristics includes their uprightness, truly obeying Allah (Exalted be He) and avoiding disobedience to Him.

Q: What is the meaning of the following Hadith: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) once asked his Sahabah: “What are you talking about?” They asked him about those people who will enter Jannah without being called to account. Whereupon the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) said: “They are those who do not seek Ruqyah, those who do not get themselves cauterized, and those who do not believe in bad omens; rather, they put their trust in their Lord.”

A: This has been reported in the Hadith about the seventy thousand Muslims who are destined to enter Jannah without being called to account. The Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) told his Sahabah that his Ummah were displayed before him. Among them were seventy thousand people who are destined to enter Jannah without being called to account and without suffering punishment, Some people said; “The Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) may be referring to those who were born Muslims.” Others said: “He may be referring to those who accompanied the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) during the early days of Islam and did not associate any partners with Allah.” When the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) entered upon them, he asked them about the topic they were discussing, When they told him that they were inquiring about the Muslims who will enter Jannah without being judged, the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) said; (They are those who do not seek Ruqyah, those who do not get themselves cauterized, and those who do not believe in bad omens; rather, they put their trust in their Lord.)

In addition to the characteristics mentioned in the above Hadith, they also fear Allah, believe in Him and hold steadfastly to His Din (religion).

“They are those who do not get themselves cauterized” means that they do not resort to cauterization when they are ill. Another great characteristic is that they put their trust in Allah (Exalted be He), However, it is permissible to treat sickness by means of cauterization or seeking Ruqyah as the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) is reported to have permitted them both. He permitted “Aishah to treat herself by means of seeking Ruqyah. He also permitted the mother of Ja ‘far’s children to treat them by means of seeking Ruqyah. However, if another means of treatment is available, then it will be better not to resort to seeking Ruqyah or cauterization. The Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) is reported to have said: (The best of all remedies are three: cauterization, drinking honey, and cupping, yet I do not like to be cauterized. )

Believing in bad omens is prohibited because it leads to pessimism. There is a narration from Imam Muslim that states: “They do not recite Ruqyah to others,” but its status has been classified as weak. Some narrators have mistaken seeking Ruqyah for Ruqyah. There is nothing wrong if the Muslim recites Ruqyah for his fellow Muslim, The Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) is reported to have said: (There is nothing wrong with Ruqyahs as long as they do not contain formulas that bear the meaning of Shirk.)

The Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) is reported to have recited Ruqyah to his Sahabah, “Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) is also reported to have recited Ruqyah over the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) when he fell sick. The Sahabah are also on reported to have recited Ruqyah to each other. There is nothing wrong with reciting Ruqyah.

It is better not to seek Ruqyah unless there is a necessity. This is based on the fact that the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) ordered Aishah saying: “You may ask for someone to recite Ruqyah over you.” The Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) also said to the mother of the children of Ja ‘far “You may ask for someone to recite Ruqyah over them (her children).” There is nothing wrong to ask someone saying: “O so and so, recite the Qur’an over me so that Allah may cure my sickness. May Allah reward you greatly.” There is also nothing wrong to have oneself cauterized if there is need for that.

Q: Who are the people who will enter Jannah without being held accountable for their deeds? Are they those who do not recite Ruqyah for themselves nor for others? Kindly explain this to us. May Allah reward you with the best.

A: Those who follow Allah’s Din, fulfill His religious duties, and avoid His Prohibitions are destined to enter Jannah without being called to account or suffering punishment. Among them are the seventy thousand who do not seek Ruqyah, have themselves cauterized or believe in bad omens, but put their trust in Allah.

They also do not believe in bad omens because believing in them is prohibited. Moreover, they prefer to avoid cauterization as a form of treatment, This is because the Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) said that these are among the characteristics of the seventy thousand (who will enter Paradise without being called to account). It would be better to use another form of treatment instead of cauterization. The Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) is reported to have said: (The best of all remedies are three: cauterization, cupping, and drinking honey, yet I do not like to be cauterized, ) The Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) is reported to have cauterized some of his Sahabah, Therefore, it is better not to treat oneself by means of cauterization, especially when another means of treatment is available. If no other means is available, then there is nothing wrong to resort to this. That does not necessarily mean that they will not be accounted among the seventy thousand. This is because the seventy thousand are those who adhere to the Din of Allah, avoid His Prohibitions, and fulfill the duties He prescribed. Among their good characteristics is that they do not seek Ruqyah. However, seeking Ruqyah does not necessarily mean that they will not be included among the seventy thousand. Seeking Ruqyah is to ask others to recite Ruqyah for you. There is nothing wrong to ask for Ruqyah if there is need for that. The Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) ordered ‘Aishah to treat herself by means of seeking Ruqyah, He also ordered the mother of the children of Ja far to treat her children by means of seeking Ruqyah, so there is nothing wrong with that.

There is also nothing wrong to have oneself cauterized if there is a need for that. This is based on the Hadith in which the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) is reported to have said: (The best of all remedies are three things: cauterization, cupping, and drinking honey.) This Hadith denotes that though it is permissible to seek treatment by means of cauterization, it is preferable not to resort to it, especially when some other sort of medicine is available.

(Part No. 1; Page No. 68-77)

Source: English Translations of Collection of “Noor ala Al-Darb” Programs, Volume 1. By: Sheikh `Abdul `Aziz Bin `Abdullah ibn `AbdulRahman ibn Bazz (May Allah forgive and reward al-Firdouse to him and his parents). He was The Mufti of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars, and Chairman of Department of Scholarly Research and Ifta’.

This English Translations are collected from alifta.com , Portal of the General Presidency

Related Links:

Dunya, Death & Hereafter : https://abdurrahman.org/finaljourney/

The Most Authentic Books on True Islamic Aqidah (Creed) – Imam Ibn Baaz (rahimahullaah)

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Bismillaah

7- The most authentic books on “Aqidah

Q: Please guide me to the most authentic book on true Islamic Aqidah (creed)! May Allah grant you success!

A: The most authentic, noblest and greatest book dealing with the subject of Aqidah and other subjects is the Glorious Qur’an. It contains the most truthful speech. No falsehood can approach it from before or behind it. It is a revelation from Allah, the All-Wise, the Praiseworthy. I advise the inquirer and all Muslims to hold fast to the Qur’an and to give it due attention by reciting it often, reflecting on its meanings and trying hard to memorize as many chapters of it as possible. It is the Greatest Book which Allah has sent down to His servants so that they may memorize it, follow its teachings and act upon it. It contains plain truths and clear guidance.

Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) states, «Verily, this Qur’an guides to that which is most just and right»

He (Glorified be He) also says,« it is an honourable well-fortified respected Book (because it is Allah’s Speech, and He has protected it from corruption)» «Falsehood cannot come to it from before it or behind it: (it is) sent down by the All-Wise, Worthy of all praise (Allah azza wa jal)». and: «And We have sent down to you the Book (the Qur’an) as an exposition of everything, a guidance, a mercy, and glad tidings for those who have submitted themselves (to Allah as Muslims).»

I thus advise the inquirer to care for this Great Book, recite it frequently, ponder over its meanings, study it together with colleaques and fellows, and refer to reliable books of Tafsir (exegesis of the meanings of the Qur’an), such as the book entitled “Adwa’ Al-Bayan” for Al-Baghawy, Tafsir Ibn Kathir (may Allah be merciful to them all), and the like. They may also refer to commentaries of other Mufassirs (exegetes of the Qur’an) who clarified the meanings of the Ayahs of the Qur’an, citing related Hadiths of the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him).

I advise you my fellow brother to study the Book of Allah and to pay due concern to the Sunnah (whatever reported from the Prophet) of the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him), which contains guidance and light. You may refer to such books as Sahih Al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim and the remaining four collections of Hadith (Abu Dawud, Al-Tirmidhi, Al-Nasa’i, and Ibn Majah).

There are also many other books which explain the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him), including the Muwatta’ of Imam Malik (may Allah be merciful to him), the Sunan of Al-Darimi (may Allah be merciful to him), the Sahih of Ibn Khuzaymah, the Sahih of Ibn Hibban, Al-Hakim and other books which are very beneficial.

If you have some knowledge of Hadith, you will be able to differentiate between authentic and false Hadiths cited in the books referred to above. The Two Sahih (authentic) Books of Hadith (i.e. Al-Bukhari and Muslim) are an exception to this. The Muslim Ummah (community) has unanimously agreed on the authenticity of all the Hadiths compiled in them.

You are also advised to follow in the footsteps of the righteous scholars of Hadith. The Two Sahih Books of Hadith have gained the credibility of AhI-ul- Sunnah wal-Jama ‘ah (adherents to the Sunnah and the Muslim mainstream). The Muslim Ummah has also acknowledged them as authentic. Therefore, you must adhere to them tenaciously. You must also hold fast to the Book of Allah, the remaining four books of Sunan and the books we just mentioned. Scholars of Hadith have pointed out weak Hadiths and have given reasons for their weakness.

As for books on the topic of “Aqidah, they are many. One of the best books in this regard is the “Kitab Al-Tawhid” by Ibn Khuzaymah, “Kitab Al-Sunnah” by *Abdullah Ibn Ahmad Ibn Hanbal, “Minhaj Al-Sunnah”, by Shaykh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, which refutes the claims of the Mutazilites, and “Zad Al-Ma‘ad” by Ibn Al-Qayyim, knowing that the latter is very good reference in the field of “Aqidah and rulings of Shariah (Islamic Law). Other books include “Ijtima Al-Juyush Al-Islamiyyah” by Ibn Al-Qayyim which refutes the claims of innovators in religious matters, “Al-Sawa ‘iq Al-Mursalah” by Ibn Al-Qayyim, which also involves refutation of the claims of innovators in religious matters, and “Al- Aqidah Al-Wasitiyyah” by Shaykh-ul-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah. This is a concise book which involves great benefit to Muslims. It is in line with the guidance of Ahl-ul-Sunnah wal-Jama ‘ah, and Shaykh- ul-Islam advised all Muslims, particularly seekers of knowledge, to memorize it, as it contains clear illustration of the doctrine of Ahl-ul-Sunnah wal-Jama ‘ah. Shaykh-ul-Islam also authored a book entitled “Al-Risalah Al-Hamawiyyah” which answers questions posed by the people of Hamah concerning proper understanding of Allah’s Names and Attributes, and other questions related to Aqidah. Upon visiting the people of Tadmur, he also wrote an epistle which he entiteled “Al-Risalah Al-Tadmuriyyah”. It is a great piece which clarifies sound Aqidah. There is also a book entitled “Al- Aqidah Al-Tahawiyyah” by Imam Al- Izz. It is wonderfully written. There is also another book called “Kitab Al-Tawhid” written by Shaykh-ul-Islam Muhammad Ibn Abdul-Wahhab (may Allah be merciful to him), which is a valuable book. He also wrote “At-Thatlathat Al-Usul”. He also wrote a short treatise on Aqidah. Another book called “Fat-h Al-Majid Sharh Kitab Al-Tawhid” was written by his grandson Shaykh ‘Abdul-Rahman Ibn Hasan Ibn Al-Shaykh Muhammad Ibn Abdul-Wahhab. It is a great and useful book. The book was annotated by Shaykh Sulayman Ibn ‘Abdullah Ibn Muhammad Ibn ‘Abdul-Wahhab. He titled it “Taysir Al- Aziz Al-Hamid li-Sharh Kitab Al-Tawhid“. It is also a great and useful book.

I advise all Muslims to refer to and benefit from these and other beneficial books on the subject of Aqidah. I again stress the fact that the Qur’an is the greatest, noblest and most truthful of all books. It is the greatest remedy for those who seek healing for their souls. The Salaf (righteous predecessors) did not have any other book except the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him). The Sahabah (Companions of the Prophet) and the Tabi‘un (Followers, the generation after the Companions of the Prophet) had only the Glorious Qur’an and the Hadiths of the Prophet (peace be upon him), and they were sufficient for them. They contain every type of guidance. However, there is nothing wrong in referring to the books of well known and reliable scholars as has been mentioned.

There is no harm in making use of their writings, benefiting from them or calling other people to benefit from them. Some people may not trust their own understanding of the Qur’an and Sunnah, and when they refer to books written by reliable scholars and such references happen to be in conformity with their understanding, their knowledge is further enhanced and their hearts are set at ease. Allah alone grants success.

(Part No. 1; Page No. 26- 29)

Source: English Translations of Collection of “Noor ala Al-Darb” Programs, Volume 1. By: Sheikh `Abdul `Aziz Bin `Abdullah ibn `AbdulRahman ibn Bazz (May Allah forgive and reward al-Firdouse to him and his parents). He was The Mufti of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars, and Chairman of Department of Scholarly Research and Ifta’.

This English Translations are collected from alifta.com , Portal of the General Presidency

Books Recommended by Scholars

  1. Books recommended by Sheikh Albani
  2. Books Recommended By Sheikh Ibn Utheimeen
  3. Books Recommended by Shaykh Muqbil for the Beginner (Student of Knowledge)
  4. Recommended Books by Shaykh Zayd al-Madkhalee
  5. Shaykh Muhammad Amaan al-Jaamee on the Books a Student of Knowledge Should Read in the Areas of ‘Aqeedah, Tafseer, Hadeeth and its Sciences, and Fiqh

What are the means which help one to wake up for Fajr (Dawn) Prayer? – Imam Ibn Baz rahimahullah

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Bismillaah

49 – Helping means to wake up for Fajr Prayer

Q: What are the means which help one to wake up for Fajr (Dawn) Prayer?

(Part No. 6; Page No. 147)

A: From among the helping means is to sleep early after ‘Isha’ (Night) Prayer. One should sleep early and should not stay up late and set the alarm to wake up an hour before the Adhan (call to Prayer) in order to benefit and profit from this blessed time. One can also ask their household members to wake them up for Fajr Prayer. The point is that one has to make use of all possible means along with asking Allah for help and success.

Source: English Translations of Collection of “Noor ala Al-Darb” Programs, Volume 6. By: Sheikh `Abdul `Aziz Bin `Abdullah ibn `AbdulRahman ibn Bazz (May Allah forgive and reward al-Firdouse to him and his parents). He was The Mufti of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars, and Chairman of Department of Scholarly Research and Ifta’.

This English Translations are collected from alifta.com , Portal of the General Presidency

How can we observe Tawakkul in our life? – Imam Ibn Baz (rahimahullaah)

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Bismillaah

(Part No. 4; Page No. 17)

4- Observing causes does not contradict Tawakkul

Q: The questioner asks: “I recite many Ayahs (Qur’anic verses) that talk about Tawakkul (putting one’s trust in Allah). How can we observe Tawakkul in our life? I hope you will give me examples of that.”

A: Tawakkul is one of the duties of the believers. Allah (Glorified be He) says: (and put your trust in Allah if you are believers indeed.) , (And whosoever puts his trust in Allah, then He will suffice him.) and, (and in Allah (Alone) let those who trust, put their trust.)

Tawakkul is one of the acts of worships and obligations upon Muslims. It means entrusting all affairs with Allah (may he be Exalted) and depending upon Him in everything. It also means putting one’s trust in Allah along with observing the causes. One should believe that Allah is the Causer of causes and the Disposer of all affairs and that everything rests in Allah’s Hands (Glorified and Exalted be He). One should also believe that no one can hinder what Allah gives and no one can give what Allah hinders and that Allah is the benefit Giver and the harm Inflicting, and the Supreme Giver and the Preventer. But, at the same time, one should follow legal causes that can bring him benefit by eating when he is hungry, drinking when he is thirst, marrying, earning lawful provision through selling and buying and other things. One should not neglect observing causes and put his trust in Allah along with believing that nothing happens to him except what is predestined by Allah (Exalted be He) and that he will not succeed without Allah’s support and help. Therefore, one should observe causes and put his trust in Allah and rely upon Him alone.

(Part No. 4; Page No. 18)

One should treat the patient while putting his trust in Allah as He is the One Who brings cure. You should follow the causes by seeing a physician, carrying out his instructions, having medicine, Cauterization, dietary or the like. You should sell and buy while putting trust in Allah and believing that nothing will occur except what Allah predestines for you. You can rent your estates in order to receive their due revenues, irrigate your farm, give your animals to drink and eat in order to gain their benefits while depending upon Allah in all these things. This means that one should observe the causes in everything while putting his trust in Allah and believing that He is the Causer of causes, Disposer of all affairs, benefit Giver, harm Inflicting, the Supreme Giver and the Preventer. One should only observe the causes that are ordained for him. You travel for performing Hajj (Pilgrimage), Umrah (Lesser Pilgrimage) or for trading while observing causes and believing that Allah is the Causer of causes and He is the Only One Who can make you reach your destination, support you in performing rites of Hajj and help you to achieve your goals in trade, return from your journey, and so on.

Source: English Translations of Collection of “Noor ala Al-Darb” Programs, Volume 4. By: Sheikh `Abdul `Aziz Bin `Abdullah ibn `AbdulRahman ibn Bazz (May Allah forgive and reward al-Firdouse to him and his parents). He was The Mufti of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars, and Chairman of Department of Scholarly Research and Ifta’.

This English Translations are collected from alifta.com , Portal of the General Presidency

Some people say that the world was created for the sake of Muhammad – Imam Ibn Baz

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Bismillaah

20- The wisdom of creating the universe

Q: It has become quite common knowledge that this world came into existence only for the sake of the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) and that had it not been for his sake, it would not have come into existence. I hope that our grand Shaykh will answer this question and mention related evidence. May Allah reward you richly.

A: This claim is adopted by some common people who lack proper understanding of the purpose of life. Some people say that the world was created for the sake of Muhammad. They say that were it not for Muhammad (peace be upon him), neither the world nor the people living in it would have been created. This is a false and groundless claim which is based on corrupt understanding. Allah (Exalted be He) created the world so that people would know Him, realize His existence and worship Him Alone (Glorified and Exalted be He). He created the world and human beings so that His Names and Attributes, His Graciousness and Knowledge would be known and so that He Alone would be obeyed and worshipped with no partner. He did not create this world for the sake of Muhammad, Nuh (Noah), Musa (Moses), Isa (Jesus) or any other prophet. Rather, Allah (Exalted be He) created the universe so that He Alone would be worshiped with no partner or associate,

(And I (Allah) created not the jinn and mankind except that they should worship Me (Alone). )

Allah (Glorified be He) states that He created mankind so that they would worship Him and not for the sake of Muhammad (peace be upon him), Being one of the prophets, Muhammad (peace be upon him) was also created to worship His Lord.

Allah (Glorified be He) states, (And worship your Lord until there comes unto you the certainty (i.e, death). )

In Surah Al-Talaq, Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) says, (It is Allah Who has created seven heavens and of the earth the like thereof (i.e. seven). His Command descends between them (heavens and earth), that you may know that Allah has power over all things, and that Allah surrounds all things in (His) Knowledge. )

Allah (Glorified be He) says,(And We created not the heaven and the earth and all that is between them without purpose! }

Therefore, Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) created mankind so that He would be worshipped, obeyed, glorified and so that people may know that He has power over all things and that He disposes of all affairs.

Therefore, the questioner must realize that the things which he heard are void and groundless. It was not for the sake of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) nor for the sake of any other messenger that Allah (Exalted be He) created the jinn, mankind, the heavens, the earth or other objects. Rather, Allah (Exalted be He) created life and mankind so that He will be worshipped Alone without any partner and that His Names and Attributes are known to everyone. This is the truth of the matter as is indicated by many proofs. This is by no means in contradiction with the fact that Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the best and most honorable of men, the last and final Prophet, and the master of the children of Adam. It must be known that Allah (Exalted be He) created him for the purpose of worshipping Him, which is the very purpose for which all mankind was created. Again, Allah (Exalted be He) did not create people for the sake of Muhammad (peace be upon him). At the same time, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the best of all people. Therefore, you must understand this and convey it to others because this matter is very important.

Some ‘so-called’ scholars and uneducated extremists have misunderstood this matter and this may confuse common Muslims. On the contrary, people of knowledge and far-reaching insight know very well that these are but false claims and that Allah (Glorified be He) created mankind for the purpose of worshipping Him Alone and that they may come to know about His Names and Attributes, like the All-Wise, the All-Knowing, the Hearer, the Answerer of supplications, the One Who has Power overall things, and the One Whose Being, Names and Attributes and Actions are perfect.

(Part No. 1; Page No. 66, 67)

Source: English Translations of Collection of “Noor ala Al-Darb” Programs, Volume 1. By: Sheikh `Abdul `Aziz Bin `Abdullah ibn `AbdulRahman ibn Bazz (May Allah forgive and reward al-Firdouse to him and his parents).He was The Mufti of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars, and Chairman of Department of Scholarly Research and Ifta’.

This English Translations are collected from alifta.com , Portal of the General Presidency

Related Links:

Definition and the Meaning of “Islam” – Imam Ibn Baz (rahimahullaah)

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Bismillaah

1- Definition of Islam

Q: Please, illustrate to me the meaning of Islam.

A: Islam means total submission to Allah (Exalted be He) through belief in His Oneness, and showing subservient and servile obedience to Him. This is the meaning of Islam.

The Arabic root word ‘Aslama‘ means to show submission and surrender to someone and obey his commands. Accordingly, Islam means surrender and submission to Allah’s Will by means of believing in His Oneness, being devoted to Him, obeying His commandments and abandoning what He has prohibited. Such is Islam, about which Allah (Exalted be He) says: (Truly, the religion with Allah is Islam.)

Besides, a Muslims are thus called as they show complete submission to Allah and obey Him, abiding by His Commandments and refraining from what He has prohibited.

Islam is also a name for all the Commandments of Allah (Exalted be He) and His Messenger (peace be upon him), including Salah (Prayer), Sawm (fast), Zakah (obligatory charity), Hajj (pilgrimage), faith and so on. Such categories fall under Islam.

In this regard, Allah (Exalted be He) says: (This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.)

He (Glorified be He) also says: (And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers, )

Therefore, a Muslim is a person who submits himself to Allah (Exalted be He) as far as words, practical behavior and belief are concerned. In other words, Islam stands for total submission to and abidance by His Commandments in all aspects of life.

(Part No. 1; Page No. 10)

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Source: English Translations of Collection of “Noor ala Al-Darb” Programs, Volume 1. By: Sheikh `Abdul `Aziz Bin `Abdullah ibn `AbdulRahman ibn Bazz (May Allah forgive and reward al-Firdouse to him and his parents).He was The Mufti of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars, and Chairman of Department of Scholarly Research and Ifta’.

This English Translations are collected from alifta.com (website is down since longtime), Portal of the General Presidency

Related Links:

The difference between the Fard and Nafilah Prayers – Imam Ibn Baz (rahimahullah)

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Bismillaah

167. The difference between the Fard and Nafilah Prayers

Q: Are there differences between the Fard and Nafilah Prayers ?

A: Yes, there are differences.

The Nafilah is a desirable supererogatory act, while the Fard is obligatory, based on a definitive text. If one does not offer the Nafilah Prayer, such as Salat-ul-Duha (supererogatory Prayer before noon), Al-Witr (Prayer with an odd number of units), or the Sunnah Ratibah (supererogatory Prayer performed on a regular basis) related to the the Zhuhr (Noon), Fajr (Dawn), Maghrib (Sunset), and ‘Isha’ (Night) Prayers, one is not regarded as sinful for this. On the other hand, if one gives up the the Fard Prayers, one is sinful and may even be considered a disbeliever if one does so intentionally.

The Nafilah Prayer may be offered while sitting, even if the person performing it is healthy, while the Fard Prayer cannot be performed while sitting unless the person offering it has a reason for this; such as being sick or disabled.

The Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) would sometimes offer the optional late night Prayer while sitting, and he (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said: (Whoever prays while standing will get greater reward;one who prays while sitting will get half of the reward of the person praying while standing; and one who prays laying will get half of the reward of the person who prays sitting.) Peace and blessings be upon the Prophet.

So, it is permissible in general to pray the Nafilah during the night or day while sitting. However, this is not the case with the Fard Prayer. The latter must be offered while standing, as the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said to “Imran: (Offer Prayer while standing). He said to ‘Imran ibn Al-Husain (may Allah be pleased with him): (Pray while standing and if you cannot, pray while sitting, and if you cannot do even that, then pray lying on your side.) (If you cannot do even that, you can pray lying on your back.) This Hadith is about the Fard; as for the Nafilah, there is no problem if one performs it while sitting; if he or she finds himself or herself too tired to stand while praying the same, they may sit.

(Part No. 10; Page No. 385)

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Source: English Translations of Collection of “Noor ala Al-Darb” Programs, Volume 10. By: Sheikh `Abdul `Aziz Bin `Abdullah ibn `AbdulRahman ibn Bazz (May Allah forgive and reward al-Firdouse to him and his parents).He was The Mufti of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars, and Chairman of Department of Scholarly Research and Ifta’.

This English Translations are collected from alifta.com (website is down since longtime), Portal of the General Presidency

Related Links:

Does Nutritional Injections break the fast? – Fatwas of Ibn Baz

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Bismillaah

Q: I have read in some books of Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) including Fiqh Al-Sunnah by Shaykh Sayyid Sabiq that nutritive injections and other non-oral medications do not break the Sawm (Fast). 

However, I know also that some scholars dispute this, so I want to know the generally-accepted opinion of scholars in this regard. May Allah reward you with the best.

A: The correct opinion is that nutritive injections break the Sawm if taken deliberately. However, this does not apply to ordinary injections which are solely medical. May Allah grant us success.

Fatwas of Ibn Baz > Volume 15 > Book on Fasting > Nullifiers of fasting that necessitate Kaffarah > Do nutritive injections break Sawm?

The eleventh question of Fatwa no. 5176

Q 11: What is the ruling on having injection during the daytime in Ramadan, whether for nutrition or treatment?

A: It is permissible for a person observing Sawm (Fast) to be treated by injections, whether intravenous or intramuscular, during the day in Ramadan.

But it is not permissible to have nutritive injections, as they come under the same ruling as having food and drinks.Thus, taking them is considered a trick to break Sawm in Ramadan.

If it is possible to have the intravenous or intramuscular injections during the night, it will be better.

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

The Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’

Member – Chairman
`Abdullah ibn Qa`ud  – `Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz

Fatwas of the Permanent Committee >  Acts of worship  >  Sawm (Fast)  >  Types of Sawm (Fast)  >  Obligatory Sawm  >  The Sawm of Ramadan  >  Invalidators of Sawm  >  Injection for a fasting person  > Q 11: What is the ruling on having injection during the daytime in Ramadan, whether for nutrition or treatment?

Anesthetic injections and cleaning, filling, or extracting teeth while fasting

Q: If a person has pain in their tooth, then a dentist cleans, fills or extracts it, does it affect their Sawm (Fast)? Does an anesthetic injection invalidate Sawm?

A: The things listed in the question do not have any effect on the validity of the Sawm. They are permissible, but a person should be careful to avoid swallowing any medicine or blood during treatment.

Similarly, the injection mentioned does not have any effect on the validity of the Sawm, because it is not like food or drink. The basic principle is that Sawm remains valid.

Fatwas of Ibn Baz (alifta.net) > Volume 15 > Book on Fasting > Nullifiers of fasting that necessitate Kaffarah > Anesthetic injections and cleaning, filling, or extracting teeth while fasting

The wisdom behind saying, “Laa Hawla Wa-Laa Quwwata illa Billah” when the Mu’adhin says, “Hayya `Ala Al-Salah” and “Hayya `Ala Al-Falah” – Imam Ibn Baz

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From `Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz to the honorable brother H. M. Th., may Allah grant him safety! May Allah’s Peace, Mercy, and Blessings be upon you. In respect of your request for Fatwa registered in the Department of the Scholarly Research and Ifta’ (no. 1513), dated (21/4/1407 A.H.), it contains three questions. Here are the answers:

 Q3: What is the wisdom behind saying,  لا حَوْلَ وَلا قُوَّةَ إِلا بِالله “La Hawla Wala Quwwata Illla Billah”  (There is no might nor power except with Allah) when the Mu`adh-dhin says,  حي على الصلاة “Hayya `Ala Al-Salah (Come to Salah)” and  حي على الفلاح “Hayya `Ala Al-Falah (Come to Success)” taking into consideration that they imply a call to Salah? Is there a Hadith that refers to that?

A: The wisdom behind that saying is that man is weak by nature. He has no ability to move from a condition to another except with the help of Allah. Even his going to Salah in congregation needs the help and power of Allah. A servant of Allah has no might or power except with Allah. He realizes that he is weak, powerless, and unable to answer this call unless Allah helps him Alone. Therefore, upon hearing that call, he says: “La Hawla Wala Quwwata Illa Billah”.

This is authentically reported from `Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) as related by Muslim in his Sahih. May Allah grant us all success! May Allah’s Peace, Mercy, and Blessings be upon you!

Issued by the office of His Eminence and was read to His Eminence again on 4/4/1415 A.H.

Source: Fatwas of Ibn Baz > Volume 10 > Book of Salah > Chapter on Adhan and Iqamah > 

http://alifta.net/Fatawa/FatawaChapters.aspx?languagename=en&View=Page&PageID=1628&PageNo=1&BookID=14

Questions regarding Blood Transfer (Blood Transfusion) / Blood Donation – alifta

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Ruling on blood donation

Q 43: What is the ruling on blood donation? [1]

A: There is no wrong in doing so, especially at times of necessity and need.

[1] Published by Al-`Arabiyyah Magazine, Rajab, 1420 A.H.

Fatwas of Ibn Baz>Volume 20>Chapter on Gifts and Grants
http://alifta.net/Fatawa/FatawaChapters.aspx?languagename=en&View=Page&PageID=3891&PageNo=1&BookID=14

What is the ruling on non-Muslims donating blood to Muslims?

Q 1: What is the ruling on blood donation? What is the ruling on non-Muslims donating blood to Muslims?

A: It is permissible to donate blood to Muslims whether the donor is Muslim or Kafir (non-Muslim); and whether he is of the People of the Book, or idolater if there is no harm to the donor and the person to whom blood is donated was in need of it.

The Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’ – alifta.net
Fatwas of the Permanent Committee>Group 1>Volume 25: Miscellaneous Fatwas 2>Treatment with blood>Blood donation

Question:

Is it allowed to transfer blood from one person to another, and what if the two are of different religions?

Answer:

When a patient becomes so sick that the only way for him to get better is to undergo a blood transfusion, and when doctors are at least confident of the benefits that will result, he may be treated in this fashion, even if the donor and the recipient belong to different religions. Blood form a disbeliever, even though he may be at war with the Muslims, can be donated to a Muslim. And Muslim blood may be donated to a disbeliever who is not at war with the Muslims. May Allaah send peace and blessings upon Muhammad, his family, and his Companions.

Permanent Committee for Research and Verdicts
Fatawa Islamiyah Vol. 8 Page 229
DarusSalam English Publication

Muslims donating blood to non-Muslims is a good deed

The former Mufti of Saudi Arabia Shaykh bin Baz mentioned…

It is permissible for Muslims to donate blood to non-Muslims and you will be rewarded (by Allah) for doing so. But it’s not permissible to accept compensation for donating blood. Thus Whoever accepted money for donating blood should give that money in charity to the poor.

http://www.binbaz.org.sa/fataw/4868
http://www.binbaz.org.sa/fataw/3875

Summarized and Translated by Rasheed ibn Estes Barbee

Transferring blood from a male to a female and vice versa

There is nothing wrong with transferring blood from a male to a female and vice versa, as this does not affect marriageability and such matters.

[Issued by the Permanent Committee, Fatwa no. 19477, the sixth question]
http://www.alifta.net/Fatawa/FatawaChapters.aspx?languagename=en&View=Page&PageID=319&PageNo=1&BookID=17

Donating blood and taking a Price / receiving Gifts for it.

Receiving compensation for blood donation is unlawful, whether the compensation is money or any other kind of payment based on the Hadith reported on the authority of Abu Juhayfah in Sahih Al-Bukhari: The Prophet (peace be upon him) forbade the price of blood [1].There is a general Ijma` (consensus of scholars) that it is unlawful even if the money is a gift; for it is a gift given in return for something that it is forbidden to sell.

[1] Al-Bukhari, Sahih, Book on clothing, no. 5945; and Ahmad ibn Hanbal, Musnad, vol. 4, p. 308.

http://www.alifta.net/Fatawa/FatawaChapters.aspx?languagename=en&View=Page&PageID=321&PageNo=1&BookID=17

Narrated `Aun bin Abu Juhaifa:

My father bought a slave who practiced the profession of cupping. (My father broke the slave’s instruments of cupping). I asked my father why he had done so. He replied, “The Prophet (صلّى الله عليه وسلّم) forbade the acceptance of the price of a dog or blood, and also forbade the profession of tattooing, getting tattooed and receiving or giving Riba, (usury), and cursed the picture-makers.”

Sahih al-Bukhari 2086 (Book 34, Hadith 39), Translated Dr. Muhammad Muhsin Khan

Q: A blood bank grants gifts to blood donors, such as prayer rugs, medals, head coverings or the like, and sometimes three hundred riyals. I would like to know what is the Islamic ruling on such gifts.

A: After considering the Fatwa request, the Committee gave the following answer:

It is not permissible to sell blood based on the Hadith related in Sahih Al-Bukhari on the authority of Abu Juhayfah who said: I saw my father buying a cupper [a person who performs cupping] and ordered that his tools be broken. I asked him about this and he replied: The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) forbade the price of blood, the price of dogs, and the earnings of a prostitute; and he cursed the woman who tattoos others and she who gets tattooed, the one who takes or gives Riba (usury or interest), and the Musawwir (one who makes pictures, statues, or photographs of living beings).

Al-Hafiz in Al-Fath said: “This means that it is prohibited to sell blood just as it is prohibited to sell dead meat and pork. This is unanimously Haram (unlawful), i.e., to sell blood and take a price.”

Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’
http://www.alifta.net/Fatawa/FatawaChapters.aspx?languagename=en&View=Page&PageID=320&PageNo=1&BookID=17

Does blood transfusion create a Mahram relationship?

Transferring blood from a man to a woman or vice versa does not fall under the same category as breastfeeding, whether linguistically, conventionally, or legally, nor is it liable to the rulings on breastfeeding, such as creating a Mahram (unmarriageable relatives) relationship or affecting marriageability and the like, as breastfeeding does.

[Issued by His Eminence Shaykh Muhammad ibn Ibrahim Al-Shaykh, may Allah be merciful to him]

http://www.alifta.net/Fatawa/FatawaChapters.aspx?languagename=en&View=Page&PageID=315&PageNo=1&BookID=17

Establishing an Islamic bank to store blood for emergency aid for wounded Muslims

It is permissible to found an Islamic bank for accepting blood donations from people and preserving it to provide first aid to the Muslims who need it, provided that the bank does not take anything from the patients or their guardians in return for providing blood to them and does not use it as a commercial means to earn money. There is no doubt that such project will be of public interest to Muslims.

[Decree of the Council of Senior Scholars no. 65 dated 7/2/1399 A.H.]
http://www.alifta.net/Fatawa/FatawaChapters.aspx?languagename=en&View=Page&PageID=330&PageNo=1&BookID=17

The astronomical reports about the timing of the eclipse must not be taken as the basis for offering Salat-ul-Kusuf (Eclipse Prayer)

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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!

Excerpted from : “How should Salat-ul-Kusuf be done? Fatwas of Ibn Baz – alifta.net”

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

Wearing a Copper/Brass Bracelet for Curing Rheumatism – Imam Ibn Baz

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Ibn Baz Fatwas – (Part No. 1; Page No. 206,207)

Copper bracelets [1]

[1]This is another answer to a question about copper bracelets made to cure rheumatism

From `Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz to my honorable brother, may Allah safeguard you.

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

I have received your noble letter, may Allah be pleased with you. I have also reviewed the enclosed documents on the properties of the copper bracelet recently made to cure rheumatism. I have considered the whole matter more than once and discussed it with a number of university lecturers. We exchanged opinions on the juristic ruling on the copper bracelet in question, but there were different opinions on the matter; some regard it permissible as it has properties of curing rheumatism, whereas others see that it is better not to wear it, on the ground that wearing it is like the practice of the people of Jahiliyyah (pre-Islamic time of ignorance), who used to wear copper amulets and bracelets, thinking that they were a cure for many diseases and a reason for the safety of the person wearing them against envy.

`Uqbah ibn `Amir (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

Anyone who wears an amulet, Allah will not fulfill their need, and anyone who wears a seashell, Allah will not give them peace. [1]

According to another narration:

Anyone who hangs an amulet has committed Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship). [2]

Imran ibn Al-Husayn (may Allah be pleased with him and his father) also narrated:

The Prophet (peace be upon him) saw a man with a brass bracelet on his hand. He (peace be upon him) asked him, ‘What is this?’ The man replied, ‘A protection from weakness.’ He (peace be upon him) said, ‘Cast it off, for verily it will only increase your weakness; and if you die wearing it, you will never succeed.’ [3]

According to another Hadith:

The Prophet (peace be upon him) in one of his journeys sent a messenger to check the camels of the caravan, and ordered the cutting of all string necklaces hung around the necks of the camels which were thought by the people of Jahiliyyah to benefit and protect their camels.

These Hadiths and others show that a Muslim must not wear amulets, bracelets, strings, bones, beads or other things that are used by some people to prevent or remove evil.

In my opinion, it is better not to wear or use this copper bracelet to block any means to Shirk, and to not let the heart be attached to such things, and to direct Muslims with their hearts toward Allah Alone trustingly and confidently, and to restrict oneself to lawful means that are indisputably permissible. Surely, what Allah has made lawful and accessible is sufficient and dispenses with any need for what is forbidden.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) is authentically reported to have said:

Anyone who guards themselves against doubtful matters keeps their religion and honor blameless, and anyone who indulges in doubtful matters indulges in unlawful matters, just as a shepherd who pastures his animals around a sanctuary will soon (transgress upon it and) pasture them in it. [4]

He (peace be upon him) also said:

Leave what causes you doubt and turn to what does not cause you doubt. [5]

Undoubtedly, wearing a copper bracelet is similar to what was practiced by the people of Jahiliyyah. Wearing it constitutes either a prohibited matter of Shirk or a means leading to Shirk or at least a doubtful matter.

Therefore, it is better for a Muslim not to wear it and resort to lawful medical treatment. This is the opinion that seems correct to a group of scholars, shaykhs, and myself as well with regard to this issue.

We ask Allah (Exalted be He) to guide you and us to what pleases Him, grant us good understanding of His Religion, and protect us against all that opposes His Laws. Indeed, He is Able to do all things. May Allah safeguard you. As-salamu `alaykum.

Footnotes:

[1] Ahmad ibn Hanbal, Musnad, vol. 4, p. 154.

[2] Ahmad ibn Hanbal, Musnad, vol. 4, p. 156.

[3] Ibn Majah, Sunan, Book on medicine, no. 3531; Ahmad ibn Hanbal, Musnad, vol. 4, p. 445.

[4] Al-Bukhari, Sahih, Book on faith, no. 52; Muslim, Sahih, Book on sharecropping, no. 1599; Al-Nasa’y, Sunan, Book on transactions, no. 4453; Ibn Majah, Sunan, Book on trials, no. 3984; and Ahmad Ibn Hanbal, Musnad, vol. 4, p. 270.

[5] Al-Tirmidhy, Sunan, Book on Resurrection, heart-softening narrations, and piety, no. 2518; Al-Nasa’y, Sunan, Book on drinks, no. 5711; Ahmad ibn Hanbal, Musnad, vol. 1, p. 200; and Al-Darimy, Sunan, Book on transactions, no. 2532.

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Some say that fasting in the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah is Bid’ah (innovation in religion)? – Fatwas of Ibn Baz

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Q: What is the opinion of your Eminence regarding the opinion of the one who says that Sawm in the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah is Bid`ah (innovation in religion)?

A: This is an ignorant person who should be taught.

The Messenger (peace be upon him)ordered that good deed should be done in them and fasting is one of the good deeds.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “There are no days during which the righteous action is so pleasing to Allah than these ten days (i.e. The first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah).” They asked him: “O Messenger of Allah, not even Jihad in the Cause of Allah?” He (peace be upon him) replied: “Not even Jihad in the Cause of Allah, except in case one goes forth with his life and his property and does not return with either of it.” Narrated by Al-Bukhari in his Sahih Book of Hadith. [1]

Though it is not certain whether the Prophet (peace be upon him) fasted them or not, yet it should be relied on what the Prophet said because saying is much more significant than practice. When saying is accompanied by practice, this will affirm the Sunnah. The Sunnah of the Prophet are divided into saying, practice, and approving. Though each of them forms the Sunnah, the saying is the most significant and strong of them. Then, the practice comes next and then approval follows.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “There are no days during which the righteous action is so pleasing to Allah than these days.” [2] By these days the Prophet means the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah. Thus, if one fasts or gives to charity during them, one will be doing a great good.

It is ordained during these days also to recite Takbir (saying: “Allahu Akbar [Allah is the Greatest]”), Tahmid (saying: “Al-hamdu lillah [All praise is due to Allah]”), and Tahlil (saying: “La ilaha illa Allah [There is no god except Allah]”) because he (peace be upon him) said:

“There are no days that are greater before Allah or in which good deeds are more beloved to Him than these ten days, so recite a great deal of Tahlil, Takbir, and Tahmid during them.”[3]

May Allah grant us all success!

Footnotes:

[1] Narrated by Al-Bukhari, Book on Friday, Chapter on the excellence of right action during the days of Tashriq, no. 969; and Al-Tirmidhy, Book on fasting, Chapter on the narrations concerning the right deeds in the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah, no. 757, and the wording is his.’

[2] Al-Bukhari, Sahih, Book on Friday, no. 969; Al-Tirmidhy, Sunan, Book on fasting, no. 757; Abu Dawud, Sunan, Book on fasting, no. 2438; Ibn Majah, Sunan, Book on fasting, no. 1727; Ahmad ibn Hanbal, Musnad, vol. 1, p. 224; and Al-Darimy, Sunan, Book on fasting, no. 1773.’

[3] Ahmad ibn Hanbal, Musnad, vol. 2, p. 75.

Fatwas of Ibn Baz:
Browse by subject > Acts of worship > Hajj > Virtue of the First Ten Days of Dhul-Hijjah and Mustahab acts to be done during them >

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