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Hanging supplications on the body as protection from the Jinn and devils – Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

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145- Ruling on hanging supplications on the body

Q: Is it permissible to hang some of the Du`a’s (supplications) which are mentioned in the Qur’an and Sunnah (whatever is reported from the Prophet) on the chest of a man or woman as protection for them from the Jinn (creatures created from fire) and devils? [1]

A: This is not permissible whether it be from the Qur’an, Sunnah or anything else. This is called “Tama’im (amulets)”, “Jami`at” and “Hujub” and it is not permitted to wear or hang them.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said about this matter: <<Anyone who ties an amulet, may Allah not fulfill his aim; and anyone who ties a seashell, may Allah not give him peace>> [2]

He (peace be upon him) also said: <<Ruqyahs (recitations for healing or protection), amulets and love-charms are Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship)>> [3]. Ruqyah here is referring to any words recited that are unknown or involve Shirk or Munkar (that which is unacceptable or disapproved of by Islamic law and Muslims of sound intellect), they are absolutely prohibited! All amulets are prohibited, that is, what is written on a paper or parchment and placed in a piece of cloth or a bag and tied to a child or a sick person, these are all forbidden.

This prohibition applies even if the amulets are made of Words of the Qur’an or lawful Du`a’s, they are still forbidden, because the correct scholarly opinion is that all amulets are absolutely prohibited. However, there is greater prohibition regarding the amulets which are not made using Words of the Qur’an. The prohibition of the amulets made using the Qur’an is to close any of the doors which may lead to sin or Shirk, as a Muslim is obliged to stay away from these acts, so that they do not fall into what Allah (Exalted be He) has made Haram (prohibited). Allah has made lawful for His Servants the things which lead to happiness, well-being and protection. He did not make lawful that which will harm them; rather, He made lawful that which will bring well-being and happiness in this life and the Hereafter. Humans are not permitted to introduce a Bid`ah (innovation in religion); hanging these things constitutes a Bid`ah, even if they contain Qur’an or Hadiths. The Prophet (peace be upon him) forbade the use of amulets and warned those who wear or hang them that Allah will not fulfill their aim; anyone who ties an amulet or a seashell, Allah will not fulfill their aim of wearing them. It is obligatory on every believing man and woman to protect themselves by reciting the Islamic supplications not by hanging them; supplications for recovery and well-being should be made for the sick and the children. Du`a’ for protection should also be made on their behalf before sleeping by saying: <<I seek refuge for you in the Perfect Words of Allah from the evil of what He has created>> [4]. This is following the example of the Prophet (peace be upon him) because it is reported that: <<The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to seek refuge with Allah for Al-Hasan and Al-Husayn, by saying, ‘I seek refuge for you both in the Perfect Words of Allah, from every devil and every poisonous vermin, and from every evil (envious) eye.’>> [5] Muslims must accustom themselves to reciting Adhkar (invocations and Remembrances said at certain times on a regular basis) and supplications for refuge and protection, and should seek refuge with Allah, as long as they are a sane adult, before sleeping, when entering and leaving their house etc.

The point is that there is no need to wear amulets. Some scholars have permitted wearing amulets which contain Qur’an or lawful invocations, and they said: It is a form of Ruqyah (recitation for healing or protection), and since Ruqyah is lawful if it is using the Qur’an and lawful supplications, an amulet made using the Qur’an and supplications is also lawful. The answer is that there is a difference between the two; we have evidence that the prophet (peace be upon him) performed Ruqyah and Ruqyah was performed for him. He (peace be upon him) said: <<There is nothing wrong with Ruqyah as long as it does not involve any Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship).>> [6] This is evidence of the exception of Islamically lawful Ruqyah (i.e., reciting Qur’an and saying supplications over the sick seeking healing), which is excluded from his saying: <<Ruqyahs (recitations for healing or protection), amulets and love-charms are Shirk.>>[7] This is based on the fact that the Prophet (peace be upon him) performed Ruqyah and Ruqyah was performed for him.

No exceptions were made for amulets and there is no evidence that the Prophet (peace be upon him) hung an amulet on anyone; therefore, it is not permissible to regard amulets the same as Ruqyahs; rather, all amulets are absolutely prohibited. Wearing amulets of the Qur’an and lawful supplications could lead to wearing all other amulets, while being unaware of which is right and which is wrong, and thus opens the door to Shirk and wearing charms. The Shari`ah (Islamic law) has closed all of the doors which may lead to Shirk, and the Hadiths stated regarding amulets are general and the prohibition applies to all. Closing the doors which may lead to Shirk is an obligation, consequently, this entails prohibiting all amulets, even if they contain Qur’an or lawful invocations. This is to block the means leading to Shirk and act upon the general meaning of the Hadiths, so that the believer grows accustomed to putting their trust in Allah, relying on Him, supplicating to Him, and asking Him to protect them from all evil and relieve them from any distress, and not to rely on an object which they wear around their neck or anywhere else.

The teachings of the Shari`ah sufficiently contain all goodness and well-being, for the young and old, sick and healthy. May Allah grant everyone success and guidance!

Footnotes:

[1] Question no. 10, tape no. 195.
[2] Related by Imam Ahmad, Musnad, Section on Levanters, Chapter on the Hadiths narrated by `Uqbah ibn `Amir Al-Juhany, no. 16969.
[3] Related by Imam Ahmad, Musnad, Section on the Companions who narrated a large number of Hadiths, Chapter on the hadiths narrated by `Abdullah ibn Mas`ud (may Allah be pleased with him), no. 3604.
[4] Muslim, Book on remembrance of Allah, supplication, repentance and seeking forgiveness, no. 2708; Al-Tirmidhy, Book on supplications, no. 3437; Ibn Majah, Book on medicine, no. 3547; Ahmad, vol. 6, p. 409; and Al-Darimy, Book on asking permission, no. 2680.’
[5] Related by Al-Bukhari, Book on prophets, Chapter on Allah’s Saying: “And Allah did take Ibrahim (Abraham) as a Khalil (beloved, close elect)”, no. 3371.’
[6]Related by Muslim, Book on salutations and greetings, Chapter on there is no harm in the incantation which does not smack of polytheism, no. 2200.’
[7] Related by Imam Ahmad, Musnad, Section on the Companions who narrated a large number of Hadiths, Chapter on the hadiths narrated by `Abdullah ibn Mas`ud (may Allah be pleased with him), no. 3604.’

Source : alifta.com

Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb>Volume 1>Chapter on `Aqidah>Chapter on Ruqyahs and amulets>Ruling on hanging supplications on the body

Ruling on giving names indicating servitude to other than Allah – Fatwas of Nur Ala Al-Darb

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Q: Some people commonly give their children names such as `Abdul-Nabiy (the servant of the Prophet), `Abdul-Hussayn (the servant of Al-Hussayn). What is the opinion of your Eminence on such names? Please advise us. May Allah reward you well.

A: It is impermissible to give names indicating servitude to other than Allah (Exalted be He), i.e. it is prohibited to say `Abdul-Nabiy, `Abd Aly, `Abdul-Hussayn and so on. This is Munkar (that which is unacceptable or disapproved of by Islamic law and Muslims of sound intellect), for such names should be denoting servitude to Allah Alone like `Abdul-Rahman (The Servant of The Most Compassionate), `Abdul-Rahim (The Servant of the Most Merciful), `Abdul-Malik (The Servant of The Sovereign), `Abdul-Quddus (The Servant of The Most Holy) etc. This is the right form of servitude, which is to be declared to None but Allah.

Ibn Hazm Abu Muhammad said:

The widely-known opinion of scholars is to prohibit any name indicating servitude to other than Allah, such as `Abd `Umar, `Abd Al-Ka`bah and the like with the exception of `Abdul-Muttalib, as there is disagreement on that. In other words, scholars agree upon prohibiting this. Therefore, it is impermissible to give names showing servitude to other than Allah (Exalted be He) regardless of who the person is. Accordingly, it is impermissible to say: `Abdul-Hussayn, `Abd `Umar, `Abdul-Nabiy, `Abdul-Ka`bah and the like. Rather, a person should use either names signifying servitude to Allah (Exalted be He) or other names like Salih, Muhammad, Ahmad, Zayd, Khalid, Bakr and the like.

Source : alifta.net – Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

Meaning of Allah’s Arsh (Throne) – Fatwas of Nur Ala Al-Darb

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Q: What is the meaning of Allah’s `Arsh (Allah’s Throne)?

A: According to Muslim scholars, and the Arabic language, `Arsh means a throne or a throne belonging to a king.

The `Arsh of Allah is an extremely large and great Throne; it is the greatest thing created by Allah. It has four legs, and is carried by Angles. Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) is above the `Arsh as He (Glorified and Exalted be He) says about Himself: <<The Most Gracious (Allâh) rose over (Istawâ) the (Mighty) Throne (in a manner that suits His Majesty)>> (Surah Taha 20:5). And: <<Indeed, your Lord is Allâh, Who created the heavens and the earth in Six Days, and then He rose over (Istawâ) the Throne (really in a manner that suits His Majesty)>> (Surah Al-A’raf 7:54).

Thus, it is a significantly large `Arsh; none knows how great the size of its magnificence is except Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) Who created it (but we are told by the Prophet that it is very large). This `Arsh is like a dome stretching over the entire universe; it is the ceiling of the whole universe. It is also the ceiling of Paradise; nothing is above it except Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He).

Thus, `Arsh in Arabic is a very large throne, and the thrones of kings are called `Arsh. It is mentioned in the Qur’an that the hoopoe told Sulayman (Solomon) that Bilqis (the Queen of Saba [or Sheba] in Yemen, who ruled during the lifetime of Prophet Sulayman): <<and she has a great throne>>(Surah Al-Naml 27:23). Yet, Allah’s `Arsh is unique; there is no similarity between Allah’s `Arsh and those of His Creatures. In general, we know from Arabic that `Arsh is a generic name standing for a throne. However, none knows the essence, nature, substance, or greatness of Allah’s `Arsh except Allah Himself (Glorified and Exalted be He). Yet, authentic Hadiths of the Prophet (peace be upon him) are our authority in this matter. If an authentic Hadith mentions something about it, we must believe it, and accept it without doubt. The Prophet (peace be upon him) does not utter any untruth. Thus, we must believe in what we are told about the `Arsh in the Qur’an and the authentic Hadiths without further questions. There is no authentic Hadith to tell us what it is made of. However, it is established that it is a very large, and great `Arsh created by Allah and carried by some Angels. Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) says: <<And the angels will be on its sides, and eight angels will, that Day, bear the Throne of your Lord above them>> (Surah Al-Haqqah 69:17). The day meant here is the Day of Resurrection.

However, it is known from the Hadiths that four Angels carry the `Arsh now, and on the Day of Resurrection they will be eight Angels. It is reported that Umayah ibn Abu Al-Salt composed a poem, which the Prophet approved, to this effect, namely that four Angels carry the `Arsh of Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) now. It reads:

On the right side, one in the shape of a man, and the other in the shape of an ox
On the left side, one in the shape of a vulture, and the other in the shape of a lion

This means that now four Angels carry the `Arsh; one in the shape of a man, another in the shape of an oxen, the third in the shape of a vulture, and the fourth in the shape of a lion. These four Angels were created by Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) exclusively to bear the `Arsh. Yet, it is reported on the authority of Al-`Abbas ibn `Abdul Muttalib that on the Day of Resurrection eight Angels in the shapes of ibexes will carry the `Arsh. These Angels are so giant, and extremely tall. However, this Hadith has some weakness in relation to its chain of narrators. But, another evidence for this is the Qur’anic verse mentioned above, that is <<And the angels will be on its sides, and eight angels will, that Day, bear the Throne of your Lord above them>>(Surah Al-Haqqah 69:17). which states that this will be on the Day of Resurrection. To sum up, they are now four angels, and on the Day of Resurrection they shall be eight. Allah (Glorified be He) is the One sought for help, and He knows best.

Source : alifta.net – Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

The meaning of the Hadith “Allah created Adam in His Image” – Fatwas of Nur Ala Al-Darb

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Q: A Hadith was reported from the Prophet (peace be upon him) in which he prohibits making the face ugly, and states that Allah (Exalted be He) created Adam in His image. What is the correct belief regarding this Hadith?

A: This Hadith is authentically reported from the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) in which he said: “If any of you strikes (another), let them avoid the face, for Allah created Adam in His image” . In another narration: “In the Image of Ar-Rahman (The Gracious)“.

This does not mean Tashbih (comparison) or Tamthil (likening Allah’s Attributes to those of His Creation).

According to the view of scholars, this means that Allah (Exalted be He) created Adam hearing, seeing and talking as He wishes. These are also the Attributes of Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He), for He is All-Hearer, All-Seer, Speaker and has a Face (Glorified and Exalted be He). Yet, that does not mean Tashbih or Tamthil, since the Image of Allah is completely different from the image of any creature. Rather, it means that He is Hearer, Seer, has a Face and Speaker if He wishes. Similarly, Allah (Exalted be He) created Adam in the same image; possessing hearing, sight, face, hands and feet and speech when he wants to talk. Yet, his hearing is not like Allah’s and so is his sight and speech. His face does not also resemble Allah’s Face for there is no match to Allah’s Attributes (may He be Exalted and Glorified). Rather, they befit Him (Glorified be He) alone. The servants (of Allah) have characteristics that befit them as well. Such characteristics are doomed to extinction, defect and weakness. However, the Attributes of Allah are Perfect without defect, weakness or extinction. For that, Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) says: There is nothing like Him; and He is the All-Hearer, the All-Seer. He (Glorified be He) says: “And there is none co-equal or comparable unto Him.” Accordingly, it is not permissible to strike or make the face ugly.

Source : http://alifta.net – Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

Hadeeth al-Qudsi is the speech of Allaah in wording and meaning – Fatwas of Nur Ala Al-Darb

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Hadith Qudsy: Allah’s uncreated Words

Q: Are the Hadith Qudsy (Revelation from Allah in the Prophet’s words) not created for being the Words of Allah?

A: Yes, the Hadith Qudsy are Allah’s Words that are not created, they are similar to the Qur’an such as Allah’s Saying (Glorified and Exalted be He) in respect of what the Prophet (peace be upon him) narrated from Him (Glorified be He): “O My slaves, I have forbidden Zhulm (injustice) to Myself and made it forbidden amongst you, so do not wrong one another. O My slaves all of you are misguided except those whom I guide, so ask Me for guidance, and I will guide you”. In addition to other authentic Hadith Qudsy which are all the Words of Allah.

Source : alifta.net

Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb – Browse by Volume Number > Volume 1 > Chapter on `Aqidah > Chapter on Allah’s Names and Attributes > The Hadith Qudsy are Allah’s Words that are not created

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

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

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

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

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

Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source : alifta.com
Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb>Volume 5>Book of Taharah>Chapter on invalidators of Wudu’> Our great Shaykh! I have a problem

http://www.alifta.net/Fatawa/fatawaDetails.aspx?languagename=en&BookID=8&View=Page&PageNo=1&PageID=800

Visit : https://abdurrahman.org/jinn-shayateen-devils/

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

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What are the Qur’anic verses that repel witchcraft?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The verses of Surah Taha are verses 65-69:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is because he is a disbeliever calling to Kufr.

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

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

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

Source Link : http://alifta.com/

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

Actions and Attributes of Allah are Eternal (Qadimah)

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Actions and Attributes of Allah are Eternal (Qadimah)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Anyone who memorizes the Names of Allah will enter Jannah?

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Merit of memorizing the Magnificent Names of Allah

Q: The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: Allah has ninety-nine names; anyone who memorizes them will enter Jannah (Paradise). Does this mean that anyone who memorizes the Names of Allah will enter Jannah?

A: This is one of the Hadiths that promise Jannah and speaks of virtues and good deeds. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Allah has ninety-nine names, one hundred less one. Anyone who learns them will enter Jannah. According to another narration: Anyone who memorizes them will enter Jannah. (Agreed upon by Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

This Hadith urges us to consider carefully, ponder over, memorize and learn the Names of Allah, so that we can benefit from their great meanings, gain Khushu` (the heart being submissively attuned to the act of worship), obey Allah and fulfill our duty towards Him(Glorified and Exalted be He).

Anyone who memorizes the Names of Allah, fulfills their duties towards Him, and shuns the major sins will be admitted to Jannah while those who commit major sins subject themselves to Allah’s Wrath and their fate is left to His Will: He may punish them or admit them to Jannah. Memorizing and learning the Names of Allah is one means to enter Jannah if a person does not commit major sins. Attaining Jannah has certain conditions that must be fulfilled and certain obstacles that must be avoided. Committing sins is one of the obstacles which prevent one from entering Jannah with those who will enter first. A Muslim who commits sins and does not repent before death will eventually enter Jannah after being punished and purified.

Also, Allah may forgive and admit them to Jannah without punishment. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: The Fve (Obligatory Daily) Prayers, from one Jumu’ah (Friday Prayer) to the next and from one Ramadan to the next are expiation for (sins committed) in between, as long as major sins have been avoided. Major sins include those prohibited acts for which a warning of severe punishment is given. These include all those which incur Allah’s Wrath, and are cursed by our Prophet (peace be upon him) such as Zina (sexual intercourse outside marriage), consuming Khamr (intoxicant), undutifulness to parents, involvement in Riba (usury/interest), Ghibah (backbiting), Namimah (tale-bearing), etc.

These are some major sins whose committers will be left to Allah’s Will: He may forgive and admit them to Jannah due to their belief in His Oneness and their Islam or punish them in a manner commensurate with their sins and eventually bring them out of the Fire and into Jannah after purifying them of their sins. There are various Hadiths Mutawatir (Hadiths reported by a significant number of narrators throughout the chain of narration, whose agreement upon a lie is impossible) reported from the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) that indicate that many disobedient Muslimswill enter the Fire because of their sins and will be punished in a manner commensurate with these sins.

Afterwards, the disobedient will be taken out of the Fire due to the Shafa`ah (intercession) of the Prophet (peace be upon him), angels, other prophets, and the children who died before they reached the age of puberty while others will be granted forgiveness due to Allah’s Mercy. Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) says: Verily, Allâh forgives not that partners should be set up with Him (in worship), but He forgives except that (anything else) to whom He wills .

Those disobedient Muslims are subject to Allah’s Will: He may forgive them and admit them to Jannah, or punish them in a manner commensurate with their sins and then take them out of the Fire as they will not stay therein forever. None will abide eternally in the Fire except the Kafir (disbeliever) and Mushrik (one who associates others with Allah in His Divinity or worship) who will not be forgiven.

Therefore, disobedient Muslims will not remain eternally in the Fire, according to Ahl-ul-Sunnah wal-Jama`ah (adherents to the Sunnah and the Muslim mainstream) unlike the Khawarij (separatist group that believes committing a major sin amounts to disbelief) and Mu`tazilah (a deviant Islamic sect claiming that those who commit major sins are in a state between belief and disbelief) who believe that the disobedient will stay eternally in the Fire. However, Ahl-ul-Sunnah wal-Jama`ah hold the view that the disobedient who have died as Muslims believing in the Oneness of Allah, but have not repented of their sins shall be subject to Allah’s Will. May Allah grant us all success!

Q: Will the one who memorize the Magnificent Names of Allah be admitted to Jannah (Paradise)?

A: It is reported in a Hadith Sahih (authentic Hadith) that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Allah has ninety-nine names, one hundred less one. Anyone who learns them will enter Jannah. According to another narration: Anyone who memorizes them will enter Jannah. These ninety-nine Names were not reported from the Prophet (peace be upon him) in any Hadith Sahih. However, the Muslim who is guided to learning them, by heart and put into action – and they are ninety-nine Names, is promised that goodness.

The above is one of the Hadiths which speak of the virtues of memorizing the ninety-nine Names of Allah, provided that one does not die while insisting on committing major sins because they are one of the causes that deprive a person from entering Jannah and cause him to be thrown into the Fire, unless one attains Allah’s Forgiveness.

The basic principle is that unrestricted Ayahs (Qur’anic verses) and Hadiths should be interpreted in light of restricted ones, because neither the Ayah nor the Hadith contradicts each other. They rather confirm one another.

Allah (Glorified be He) says: If you avoid the great sins which you are forbidden to do, We shall expiate from you your (small) sins, and admit you to a Noble Entrance (i.e. Paradise). Therefore, Allah indicates that avoiding major sins is a condition for expiating sins and entering Jannah. The Prophet (peace be upon him) stated, The Five (Obligatory Daily) Prayers, from one Jumu’ah (Friday Prayer) to the next and from one Ramadan to the next are expiation for (sins committed) in between, as long as major sins have been avoided.

Those who memorize the ninety-nine Magnificent Names of Allah but commit Zina or consume Khamr are subject to Allah’s punishment and will be thrown into the Fire unless they repent and Allah forgives them.Contrary to the belief of Khawarij and Mu`tazilah, Muslims who believe in the Oneness of Allah will not abide eternally in the Fire for committing major sins. Those sinful people will be punished in a manner commensurate with their sins and then Allah will take them out of the Fire due to His Grace and Kindness. None will abide forever in the Fire except those whom the Qur’an and the Hadith rule as Kafir.

A disobedient person such as a fornicator, a thief, and those who are undutiful to their parents etc., will not abide eternally in the Fire. The disobedient, who did not repent of their sins before death, will not abide in the Fire forever. They are threatened to suffer the torment of the Fire. If Allah forgives them, He (Glorified and Exalted be He) is the Source of Generosity and Benevolence; otherwise He will punish them to a degree commensurate with their sins and will eventually take them out of the Fire after being purified.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) informed us in many concurrent Hadiths that the disobedient will be taken out of the Fire and he (peace be upon him) will intercede several times for them as will the angels, the believers, and the children who died before reaching the age of puberty. This is the truth which Ahl-ul-Sunnah wal-Jama`ah follow and which differs from the view of Khawarij and Mu`tazilah. The view of Ahl-ul-Sunnah wal-Jama`ah is supported by Allah’s statement in His Noble Book: Verily, Allâh forgives not that partners should be set up with Him (in worship), but He forgives except that (anything else) to whom He wills Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) states that if one commits sins, the matter is subject to His Will but He will not forgive whoever dies as a Mushrik.

Anyone who dies as Mushrik will not be forgiven and will reside eternally in the Fire. A Mushrik is not considered to be one of Ahl-ul-Fatrah (people having no access to Divine Messages) or those who come under the same ruling as them, we seek refuge with Allah!

Whoever dies before repenting of their sins shall be subject to Allah’s Will; if He wills, He can pardon themout of His Grace, and if He wills He can punish them in a manner commensurate with their sins and then take them out of the Fire by His immense Bounty and Mercy after they have been purified. Khawarij and Mu`tazilah hold a different view, as they believe that the disobedient will remain eternally in the Fire but according to the followers of the Truth, this is false.

Q: Your Eminence, it was reported on the authority of Abu Hurayrah that the Prophet (peace be upon him) stated: Allah has ninety-nine Names, one hundred less one. Anyone who ‘ahsaha’ will enter Jannah. Does the word ‘ahsaha’ mentioned in the Hadith mean memorizing or just reading them? Please advise me, may Allah reward you with the best!

A: This Hadith was related in the Two Sahih (authentic) Books of Hadith (i.e. Al-Bukhari and Muslim) from the Prophet (peace be upon him). It was reported in two different wordings: first, “ahsaha” and second, anyone who memorizes them, will enter Jannah. The word ‘ahsaha’ means to memorize by heart and to act according to them. Thus, whoever learns the Names of Allah by heart and acts accordingly will be admitted to Jannah.

However, if one memorizes the Names of Allah by heart, but does not act or believe in them, they will be of no avail. The word ‘ahsaha’ means to memorize and act upon them. Therefore, it is Wajib upon whoever memorizes Allah’s Names to act accordingly. For example, a person should be ‘Rahim’, i.e. show mercy to others and should also believe that Allah is Al-`Aziz (the Ever-Mighty), Al-Hakim (the Most Wise), Al-Ra’uf (the Most Compassionate), Al-Rahim (the Most Beneficent), Al-Qadir (the All Powerful) Who has unlimited knowledge of all things.

Such a person should fear Allah and remember that He is watching them and should not persist in committing sins of which HisLord knows. They should avoid sins and all forms of Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship).

One should exert all his efforts to memorize and act upon the Names of Allah, believe in Him and His Messenger, affirm the Names and the Attributes which Allah has affirmed for Himself in a manner befitting His majesty without Tahrif (distortion of the meaning), Ta`til (negation of the meaning or function of Allah’s Attributes), Takyif (descriptive designation of Allah’s Attributes), or Tamthil (likening Allah’s Attributes to those of His Creation) and believe that Allah is Perfect in His Essence, His Names, His Attributes and His Deeds, with no peer, equal or rival. Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) says in His Noble Book: Say (O Muhammad sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam): “He is Allâh, (the) One. “Allâh-us-Samad  [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.” .

One must believe that Allah is the Self-Sufficient, Who is similar to nothing and nothing is comparable to Him; Whom all creatures need, Who is Perfect in His Essence, Who neither begets nor was He begotten, and Whom none is co-equal or is similar to Him. Allah (Exalted be He) says: There is nothing like Him; and He is the All-Hearer, the All-Seer. And: Do you know of any who is similar to Him? And: So put not forward similitudes for Allâh (as there is nothing similar to Him, nor He resembles anything).

There is nothing equal, comparable, or that can rival Allah (Exalted be He). He is Perfect in all things; His Knowledge, His Essence, His Wisdom, His Mercy, His Honor, His Power, and in all His Names which if one memorizes and acts accordingly, will allow them admission to Jannah.

However, if the disobedient memorize and enumerate the Names of Allah, they will be subject to Allah’s Will; if He wills, He may forgive them, and if He wills He may punish them and eventually admit them to Jannah after they are taken out of the Fire and are purified provided that they have died as Muslims believing in the Oneness of Allah. Allah (Glorified be He) says: If you avoid the great sins which you are forbidden to do, We shall expiate from you your (small) sins

Major sins include all forms of Shirk, Kufr (disbelief), and the sins that were forbidden by Allah and their doers cursed, and warned of a severe punishment and Allah’s Wrath. The servant to Allah, male and female, must shun them for Allah (Glorified be He) says: If you avoid the great sins which you are forbidden to do, We shall expiate from you your (small) sins i.e., the minor sins and admit you to a Noble Entrance (i.e. Paradise).

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: The Five (Obligatory Daily) Prayers, from one Jumu’ah (Friday Prayer) to the next and from one Ramadan to the next are expiation for (sins committed) in between, as long as major sins have been avoided. According to another narration: …so long as major sins are not committed. Major sins include Zina, theft, undutifulness to parents, severing the ties of kinship, consuming Riba, Ghibah, Namimah, fleeing during battle, and magic, in addition to other sins which Allah forbids.

Therefore, memorizing the Magnificent Names of Allah is one means of true happiness and being admitted into Jannah provided that one acts according to them, remains steadfast in obeying Allah and His Messenger, and does not persist in committing major sins.

Source : alifta.net – Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

Does mere pronouncement of Shahadah suffices to enter Islam? – Fatwas of Nur Ala Al-Darb

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Q: Does mere pronouncement of Shahadah (Testimony of Faith) suffice for a person to be rightfully called a Muslim, or does one have to do other things in order for their Islam and Iman (faith) to be complete?

A:

It is enough for a non-Muslim to pronounce the first pillar of Islam, that is, to bear witness that La ilaha illa Allah (there is no deity but Allah) and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah to be rightfully called a Muslim provided that this testimony is pronounced out of one’s certainty, knowledge, true belief, and sincere work. A person will then be asked to perform Salah (Prayer) and observe other acts of `Ibadah (worship).

When the Prophet (peace be upon him) sent Mu`adh (may Allah be pleased with him) to Yemen, he said: Invite them to bear witness that La ilaha illa Allah and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah. If they do that, then inform them that Allah has made it obligatory upon them to offer the Five Obligatory Daily Prayers. If they obey, then inform them that Allah has made it obligatory upon them to pay Zakah (obligatory charity) which is taken from the rich among them and distributed among the poor. The Prophet (peace be upon him) did not ask Mu`adh to command them to offer Salah until their Tawhid (monotheism) and Iman in the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) were firmly established. First of all, they are required to declare the Oneness of Allah and believe in Muhammad as the Messenger of Allah. Once they embrace Islam, the former Kafir (disbeliever) will hold the same rulings applied to Muslims. Then they will be required to offer Salah and perform all other religious acts. If they refrain from performing these acts, other rulings will be applicable to them.For example, if they abstain from offering Salah, they are given the chance to offer Tawbah (repentance). Otherwise, the Muslim ruler may punish him by capital punishment. If they arrogantly refuse to pay or and fight for that, they will also be fought. This is based on the fact that the Sahabah (Companions of the Prophet) fought those who denied Zakah. If they deny Sawm (fast), the Imam (ruler) may inflict Ta`zir (discretionary punishment) on them in a way that serves as a deterrent for them. The same applies to abstention of performing Hajj in case a person is financially and physically capable of performing it. This ruling is applicable to all sins which are liable to Ta`zir or Had (ordained punishment for violating Allah’s Law).

In conclusion, a person will be considered as having embraced Islam once they declare Shahadah whereby they will be treated as Muslims. If they die soon after declaring Shahadah, they will dwell in Jannah (Paradise). For example, if they embrace Islam after sunrise and die before they can offer the Zhuhr (Noon) Prayer, they will be regarded as Muslims though they have not performed any Salah. This was the case with some of the Sahabah who were killed on the battlefield soon after they embraced Islam. They belong to the dwellers of Jannah, even though they did nothing except having declared Allah’s Oneness and believed in the Messenger of Allah. However, if they live until the time of Salah is due, they will be commanded to offer it.

If they amass wealth which reaches Nisab (the minimum amount on which Zakah is due), they will be commanded to pay Zakah. They will also be required to observe Sawm if they witness the month of Ramadan. They will also be obliged to perform Hajj if they have the means.

In general, they will hold the same rulings applied to Muslims whether those related to this life or the Hereafter. They will be obliged to fulfill all the duties of Islam. However, if they die before the time of Salah has become due, they will be regarded as Muslims and shall be consigned to Jannah. In case of their persistent refusal to offer Salah, they will be treated as Kafirs. This is the view held by a large number of scholars. Other scholars hold that theywill be considered as having committed minor Kufr (disbelief that is not tantamount to taking the Muslim out of Islam). Although they will have to be put to death, they will not be considered as having committed major Shirk (disbelief that takes the Muslim out of Islam). The same applies to abandoning Zakah or Sawm. The correct opinion is that whenever a person abandons Salah intentionally, they are regarded as having denied its obligatory status. Accordingly, they will be executed according to the correct view maintained by scholars. The majority of Fuqaha’ (Muslim jurists) hold the view that they will be considered disobedient Muslims. This is the view held by the majority of later Fuqaha’. However, `Abdullah ibn Shaqiq Al-`Aqily reported that the Companions were unanimous on the fact that whoever abandons Salah will be considered as having committed Kufr.

Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

Source: alifta.com

Ruling on changing one’s name and being circumcised after converting to Islam – Fatwas of Nur Ala Al-Darb

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Q: Is it necessary for new converts to Islam to change their names? Should an adult convert be circumcised?

A: It is permissible for new Muslims to change their names if they carry wrong or bad meanings, as this is a sign of conversion to Islam. If one asks the reason for a convert having changed their name, in most cases, their names before converting to Islam were not suitable, thus they felt it necessary to change them to Islamic names such as Saleh, Ahmad, `Abdullah, `Abdul-Rahman, Muhammad, etc. Names which suggest slavery to other than Allah such as `Abdul- Messiah, `Abdul-Zahra, or `Abd-Musa must be changed to `Abdullah, `Abdul-Rahman and the like, as servitude is to Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) Alone. Therefore, it is best to change names which express servitude to other than Allah and which are familiar and used by the Kuffar (disbelievers) to Islamic names.

It is better for new Muslims to get circumcised by highly-skilled, experienced doctors, even when accepting Islam as adults. A group of scholars hold that it is Wajib (obligatory) upon new converts be circumcised unless there is fear of harm. If a doctor feels that circumcision may harm them, it is waived in this case. However, if a doctor know that it will not cause them any harm, they should be circumcised.

Circumcision is a stressed Sunnah and Wajib according to a group of scholars. Therefore, if it is feasible for an adult to be circumcised without suffering any harm, it is better and safer to undergo such procedure, otherwise they do not have to do it.

If getting circumcised will drive a person away from Islam, it should not be mentioned to them. It can also be abandoned, for embracing Islam is a great bounty even without being circumcised. Therefore, a new convert need not be informed of this if it will turn them away from Islam.

When a new convert becomes steadfast in Islam, they should be circumcised, if it would not pose any risk to their health; otherwise they should not undergo this procedure.

Source: alifta.com
Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb>Volume 1>Chapter on `Aqidah>

The correct way to teach and guide a new Muslim – Fatwas of Nur Ala Al-Darb

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Q: Some people hasten to explain some matters to new Muslims, some of these matters may be minor details, for example, wearing the complete Hijab (veil) for women and growing a beard for men and circumcision and other such matters. Can you comment on this subject?

A: These are minor details, if they are clarified at the beginning, there is nothing wrong with that, and if they are delayed to a later time, there is also nothing wrong with that. The most important thing is to explain the basics of the religion so that the person can enter Islam. As for subsidiary matters like shaving the beard or shortening it, or wearing Hijab, or circumcision and the like, these should better be delayed to a later time so that the person is not repelled or discouraged and just to teach them the foundations of Islam first and its great pillars. After they embrace Islam, they can be encouraged to perform the rest of the practices of Islam.

Source : Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

Ruling on invalidation of Wudu upon touching the private parts – alifta

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Q: Someone from Al-Sharqiyyah governorate, the Arab Republic of Egypt, asks: If a man touches his private parts or the private parts of one of his children, or if the mother touches the private parts of one of her children, must they renew their Wudu’ (ablution)?

A: Yes, if a man touches the private parts without a barrier; namely, the skin of the hand touches the skin of the private part, penis or anus, his ablution will be nullified. Similarly, if a woman touches her private parts or the private parts of her children, her ablution will be nullified.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) stated: He who touches his penis should perform ablution. He (peace be upon him) also stated: He who touches his private parts without a barrier should perform ablution.

Therefore, if someone touches their private parts without a barrier, their ablution will be nullified. But if they do this over a barrier of clothing, loincloth or pants, there is nothing wrong with this and their Wudu’ remains valid. What invalidates Wudu’ is the bare hand touching the skin of the private parts without a barrier between them.

Source for above:  http://alifta.net/ – Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

Abu Hurayrah (radhi-yAllaahu ‘anhu) said: Rasoolullaah (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa sallam) said:

«If one of you touches his penis and there is no veil between him and it nor any cover, then wudhoo has become obligatory for him.» [al-Haakim (1/138) and others]. (al-Albaanee says: hadeeth Saheeh.)

Evil Omens and pessimistic about one’s house – Fatwas of Nur Ala Al-Darb

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Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

Q: There are some people who have a house. They were in prosperity. Then, adversities inflicted them in this house until they were pessimistic and sold it. Some of the events that inflicted them in this house were temptations and suicide of some of the family members. Is this a kind of pessimism? Guide people to the truth! May Allah reward you well!

A: This is not a kind of forbidden pessimism.

It was authentically reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Pessimism is in three things; house, beast of burden and a woman. “Evil omens may be of these three things. It was mentioned in another narration: “If there is an evil omen, it will be in three things;” Then the Prophet (peace be upon him) mentioned the previous.It may happen that a woman may bring evil to her husband. If it appears what denotes evil omens in her morals, behavior or the sequence of calamities that inflict her husband as loss and depression of his commerce, destruction of his farm and the like, it will be permissible for him to divorce her. Similarly, if evil events come successively as bad circumstances or diseases for him and his children and family in this house, it will be permissible for him to move to another one because of the authentic Hadith mentioned in this regard. The same ruling is applied also to the beast of burden, such as camels, horses and the like. If he finds no benefit in a beast of burden and evil events come repeatedly because of it, there will be nothing wrong to sell it and exchange it with another one according to the text of the Hadith reported from the Prophet (peace be upon him).

Source: alifta.net : Browse by Volume Number > Volume 3 > Chapter on (believing in) bad omens

References added for the clarity:

Al-Bukhaari (5093) and Muslim (2252) narrated from ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Umar (may Allaah be pleased with them both) that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Bad omens are in a woman, a house and a horse.”

Al-Bukhaari (5094) and Muslim, (2252) narrated that Ibn ‘Umar said: Mention of bad omens was made in the presence of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), and the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “If bad omens are to be found in anything, it is in a house, a woman and a horse.”

Abu Dawood (3924) narrated that Anas ibn Maalik said: A man said: “O Messenger of Allaah, we were in a house and our numbers and wealth were great, then we moved to another house where our numbers and wealth decreased.” The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, “Leave it, it is bad.” This hadeeth was classed as hasan by al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood.

The difference between Tawassul and Wasilah – Fatwas of Nur Ala Al-Darb

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Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

Q: What is the difference between Tawassul and Wasilah?

A: Tawassul (supplicating to Allah in the name of …/by virtue of the status of…) is the supplications recited by a person. It is a kind of supplication. One can say, “I invoke You by Your Names.” This is a sort of Tawassul. Also, one may say, “I invoke You by my faith in You.” This is also a way of Tawassul. Here the Wasilah (the means of approach to Allah) is faith, piety and Allah’s Most Beautiful Names. You are the person practicing Tawassul. The Tawassul itself is your supplications.  Wasilah refers to the words used in your supplications. When you say, “O Allah! I invoke You by Your Most Beautiful Names and Sublime Attributes to forgive me,” you are the person practicing Tawassul through this supplication. The Wasilah or the means of approach to Allah here is His Names and Attributes. Allah’s Names and Attributes are called Wasilah. This means that supplicating to Allah by His Names and Attributes is a sort of Wasilah. The wording of supplication is called Tawassul. It is a sort of supplicating to Allah by faith, by Allah’s Names and Attributes, or by one’s good deeds.

Source: alifta.net :  Browse by Volume Number > Volume 2 > Chapter on Tawassul

The Sahabah who loved and followed the Prophet the most did not celebrate his Mawlid – Fatwas of Nur Ala Al-Darb

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Source: alifta.net

Q: My question is about celebrating the Mawlid (the Prophet’s birthday). In our locality there is a custom that after three days of a person’s death, the family of the deceased holds a celebration of the birthday of the Prophet (peace be upon him). Some people hold it one month or one year after a person’s death. They slaughter a cow or buy meat, prepare food and distribute it to the people of the village; afterwards, they hold a celebration of the birthday of the Prophet (peace be upon him). Is this permissible? Is it recommended to do this? Was it practiced by the Sahabah (Companions of the Prophet) or by anyone from the Salaf (righteous predecessors)? Please explain this issue, may Allah reward you with the best!

A: Celebrating the birthday of the Prophet (peace be upon him) is one of the Bid`ahs (innovations in religion) introduced into Islam. There is no difference between celebrating the birthday of the Prophet (peace be upon him) and other’s birthdays. The Prophet (peace be upon him) is the best of creatures and he is the teacher and adviser, yet he (peace be upon him) did not celebrate his birth. Similarly, his Rightly-Guided Caliphs did not celebrate his birthday, and the rest of Sahabah (may Allah be pleased with them all) who were the most knowledgeable, loved the Prophet (peace be upon him) more than anyone of us, and were the most well-informed of his Sunnah did not celebrate it. This indicates that this celebration is Bid`ah and all kinds of Bid`ah are deviation from the right way as stated by the Hadith of the Prophet (peace be upon him): Every Bid‘ah is a Dalalah (deviation). The earliest and best three centuries of Islam passed and there was no celebration of the birthday of the Prophet (peace be upon him) during these times and, as far as we know, the Salaf did not celebrate it.

Read More “The Sahabah who loved and followed the Prophet the most did not celebrate his Mawlid – Fatwas of Nur Ala Al-Darb”

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