The Use of Haid-Inhibitors (Period delaying Pills) and Stimulants (Period advancing Pills) – Shaykh ibn Uthaymeen

The Use of Haid (Menses) Inhibitors is permissible under two conditions:

FIRST: There is no associated harm on the woman. Because Allah (subhana wa ta’aala) said:

( { ولا تُلقُوا بأيديكُم إلى التَّهلُكَة } (البقرة، 195
“And do not throw yourselves in destruction” (Qur’an 2: 195).

( { ولا تَقتُلوا أنفُسَكُم إنَّ الله آانَ بكم رحيماً } (النِّساء، 29
“And do not kill yourselves surely Allah is Most Merciful to you” (Qur’an 4: 29)

SECOND: If its use affects the husband in one way or another, then his permission should be first sought. For example, if a woman is going through her Idda and the husband is obligated to spend upon her, then she is not allowed to prolong her Idda (by using Haid inhibitors) in order that she can receive more of his spending. She should request his permission. Similarly it is not permissible to use such inhibitors without the husband’s approval if it is known that the inhibitors will prevent her becoming pregnant. It is better not to use these inhibitors except under the above conditions and when there is a real need for that, because leaving the matter as natural as possible is better for the balance of health and safety of the woman.

The Use of Haid (Menses) Stimulants is permissible under two conditions:

FIRST: There must be no abuse of its use. For example, to excuse herself from certain mandatory acts of worship like using stimulants right before the month of Ramadan so as to be excused from fasting or from prayers.

SECOND: The use of stimulants must be permitted by the husband because the presence of Haid prevents him from having full enjoyment with his wife. Also, if she was divorced, then this will quickly drop off the husband’s right of returning her because it will hasten the end of her Idda. This applies to the case when the declared divorce is of the type known as Revocable Divorce in which the husband has the right to return his wife before the end of her Idda.

Questions & Answers
Haid Inhibitors

Q1: What is the ruling regarding on the use of Haid-inhibitory pills during the month of Ramadan?

As long as there is no harm in their use and as long as the husband permits this, then it is permissible to use these pills.

However, it came to my knowledge that these measures can harm the woman, especially when it is known that the release of blood by menses is a natural process. To prevent this natural way may cause certain harm to the woman.

Also the use of these pills can effect the regulation of the periodical cycle itself and that leaves her in doubt and confusion regarding the offering of her prayer and whether she is able to have sexual intercourse with her husband or not.

Because of this and other associated reasons, I cannot say that the use of these pills is unlawful but I do not like it and do not encourage it. I say that the woman should accept what Allah had ordained for her and should consider the answer of the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) to his wife ‘Aisha when she had her menses after she made Ihram for Umra. The Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) asked ‘Aisha: “May be that you got your menses?”. ‘Aisha replied, “Yes”. He (صلى الله عليه و سلم) then said,”This is the thing which Allah has ordained for all the daughters of Adam” [62]. The woman should then be patient and seek the reward from Allah. If she is unable to perform Salat and fasting because of her menses, the door is still opened for her to celebrate the praises of Allah, give charity and do good to people and such acts are great acts of worship.

[62] Saheeh Al-Bukhari (Arabic-English) V.1, P. 182, Hadeeth # 302.

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Rulings on Istihadah (Bleeding other than Menstruation) – Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen

Chapter Five – ISTIHADAH

ISTIHADAH is the vaginal bleeding of a woman such that it may not stop or it may stop but for a short period of time (a day or two in each month).

1) Bleeding that does not stop: ‘Aisha (radyAllaahu ‘anha) related that: “Fatimah bint Abi Hubaish said to the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم): “I do not become clean (i.e., bleeding is not ending) and in one narration “I got persistent bleeding (in between the periods) and I do not become clean” [49].

2) Bleeding that stops for a short period of time: Humnah bint Jahsh came to the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) and said: “My menstruation was great in quantity and severe“[50].

Several States of Istihadah

ONE: The woman has a known period of normal cycles of menses prior to Istihadah. The woman in this case refers to her previously known period of menses and during this period she applies all the rules regarding Salat, Fasting etc. Bleeding in days other than this reference period is considered as Istihadah with all associated rules being applicable.

Example: A woman used to get normal bleeding for six days at the beginning of each month. She then started to have prolonged bleeding. For this woman her Haid (Menses) period should be the “first six days of every month”.

The following extra vaginal bleeding is her Istihadah. This is in accordance with the Hadeeth of ‘Aisha (radyAllaahu ‘anha) who narrated that: “Fatimah bint Abi Hubaish asked the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم): “I got persistent bleeding (in between the periods) and do not become clean. Shall I give up prayers? He (صلى الله عليه و سلم) replied: No, this is from a blood vessel. Give up the prayers only for the days on which you usually get the menses and then take a bath and offer your prayers“[51].

And in Saheeh Muslim, the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) told Umm Habeebah bint Jahsh who had a prolonged flow of blood to “refrain (from prayer) during your menstrual period, then wash and pray” [52]. Having done this she should pray and pay attention to any flowing blood.

TWO: The woman does not have a known period of normal cycles of menses prior to Istihadah. To be able to distinguish between her blood from normal menses and her Istihadah blood, she should watch for some characteristics of these two types of blood. Haid blood may be characterized by thickness, darkness or certain distinct odor.

Example: a woman sees a continuous blood flow but she sees it dark for the first ten days and red for the rest of the month. Or it looks thick for the first ten days and soft for the rest of the month, or for the first ten days it has the characteristic odor of Haid blood and it becomes odorless for the rest of the month. So her Haid period is the dark blood flow for the first example, the thick blood for the second and the one with the distinct odor for the third. The bleeding that follows is considered Istihadah. It is related that the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) told Fatimah bint Abi Jahsh: “When the blood of menses comes, it is black and can be recognized; so when that comes, refrain from prayer, but when a different type of blood comes, perform ablution and pray, for it is (due only to) a vein.” [53]

THREE: The woman does not have a known period of Haid and lacks the distinctive characteristics mentioned above!. Blood flow is continuous carrying the same quality or flowing with abnormal qualities that make it hard to distinguish the Haid bleeding from that of the Istihadah bleeding. In this case, women encountering this prolonged and undetermined type of flow should consider their Haid period to be the period encountered by most women: 6-7 days of Haid flow per month, starting from the time she sees the flowing blood. Other than this period, the blood flowing should be considered as Istihadah.

Example: A woman sees her blood for the first time on the fifth day of the month and it continues to flow while she is unable to distinguish any difference in color, odor or thickness of blood. Her Haid period should be six or seven days starting on the fifth day of each month. This is in lieu of the Hadeeth of Hamnah bint Jahsh (radyAllaahu ‘anha). She said: “O Messenger of Allah I am a woman who menstruates in great quantity and it is severe, so what do you think about it? It has prevented me from praying and fasting”. He (صلى الله عليه و سلم) said: “I recommend that you should use cotton, put it on your private part, for it absorbs the blood. She replied: “It is too copious for that…” In this Hadeeth, the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) said: “This is a stroke of the devil, so observe your menses for six or seven days, Allah alone knows which it should be; then wash and when you see that you are purified, and quite clean, pray during twenty three or twenty four days and nights and fast, for that will be enough for you.” [54]

The saying of the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) “for six or seven days” is not meant to give Hamnah bint Jahsh the choice but just for her to examine and find out who (amongst other women) is closer to her in age, body structure, number of children, etc. the woman that mostly resembles her condition has a Haid period of six days, then she should consider this period as her reference. The same is true if the Haid period was seven days.

The One Who Resembles The Mustahadah

It is possible that something (e.g. surgery) may cause the flow of blood through the vagina. There are two types of this case:

(1) It is not possible for her to have menses following surgery e.g. removal of the uterus or its blockage. Under this case, the ruling of Istihadah cannot be applicable. If the woman sees blood, then the laws governing the yellowish discharge (see above) apply. Hence she should not refrain from performing prayers or fasting. It is not prohibited for her husband to have sexual intercourse with her and it is not obligatory upon her to have a bath. She must, however, wash, clean, and make ablution at the commencing time of the obligatory prayers and when she intends to offer the optional prayers.

(2) It is not certain that her menses will stop following surgery. It is possible that she may have menses. In this case the rulings applicable on a Mustahadah (woman going through Istihadah) are also applicable on this condition in lieu of the Hadeeth of the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) to Fatimah bint Abi Hubaish: “It is from a blood vessel, so when the real menses begins give up your prayers and when it (the period) has finished wash the blood off your body (have a full shower) and offer your prayers.”[55] The saying of the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم): “when the real menses begins” indicates that the rules for the Mustahadah woman are applicable upon the woman who, potentially, may have menses (with a beginning and an end). The woman, however, without a potentially occurring menses, her blood is a vessel blood.

Rulings About The Mustahadah

Earlier it was explained when the blood is considered a menses (Haid) blood or Istihadah blood. The rulings applicable for menses and Istihadah depend upon the type of the flowing blood. Rulings about menses were discussed earlier. The rulings about Istihadah are the same as those applicable to a clean woman except for the following:

1) It is obligatory upon the Mustahadah to perform Ablution for each prayer, because of the order of the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) to Fatimah bint Abi Hubaish: “Then make Ablution for every Salat” [56], meaning that she should make ablution only when the prescribed time of Salat begins and not before it.

2) Prior to ablution she should wash the traces of blood and covers her private part with a pad of cotton to absorb the blood. The Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) told Humnah bint Jahsh:

“I recommend that you should use cotton, for it absorbs blood.” She said: “it is too copious for that”. He (صلى الله عليه و سلم) said; “then take a cloth.” She replied, “it is too copious for that.” He said: “then Talaj’jami” i.e., to prepare a holding around the waist that will maintain the cotton pad tightly attached to her private part. Nothing that comes out should then harm her because the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) told Fatimah bint Hubaish: “Refrain from Salat during the days of your normal menses then wash and make ablution for every Salat and then pray “even if blood drops onto the mat!” (Related by Imam Ahmad and Ibn Majah).

(3) Sexual Intercourse: Scholars disagreed about its permissibility. The correct opinion is that it is permissible because many women (ten or more) had their Istihadah at the time of the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم). Allah and His Messenger did not prevent spouses from engaging in sexual intercourse. In fact, the saying of Allah (subhana wa ta’ala) :

( { فاعتَزِلُوا النِّساء في المَحيض } الأية (البقرة، 222
“Keep away from women during menses”
(Qur’an 2: 222),

is an evidence that it is only obligatory to keep away from sexual intercourse with women only during menses. And since offering prayers is allowed while in Istihadah, then there should be no difficulty in having sexual intercourse. To prevent sexual intercourse based upon Qiyass (analogy) with the state of Haid is incorrect, because the two situations are not the same. Deduction of rulings by Qiyass is invalid whenever there are existing variations.

Footnotes:

[50] Related by Ahmad, Abu-Dawoud, and At-Tirmidhi who said it is Saheeh (correct Hadeeth). It is also related that Imam Ahmad considered the Hadeeth to be Saheeh and that Imam Al-Bukhari is reported to have said it is good Hadeeth.
[51] Saheeh Al-Bukhari (Arabic-English) V.1, P.194, Hadeeth # 322.
[52] Saheeh Muslim (English), V. 1, P.189, Hadeeth # 654.
[53] Related by Abu Dawoud and An-Nassaa’ee, Ibin Habban and Al-Hakim said it is Saheeh. This author said: “although there are critical views regarding the chain of narrators and the interpretation of this Hadeeth, it had been a practical reference for some Muslim scholars and it is a better reference than referring to the average period encountered by most women (six or seven days).”
[54] ibid # 51
[55] Saheeh Al-Bukhari (Arabic-English), V.1, P.183, Hadeeth # 303
[56] Saheeh Al-Bukhari (Arabic-English) V.1, P. 149, Hadeeth # 228

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Footnotes:

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

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Dahrees Claim that Ad-Dahr (Time) Manages And Disposes the Affairs of The World – Shaykh Uthaymeen

How to Respond to the Dahrees [37]

Question 20: We know that the Dahrees, who are many nowadays and who are considered from the intellect because they think and infer, are agreed upon the belief in the non-existence of Allaah, The Mighty and Majestic. So, how to respond to people like this?

[37] Dahrees: People who deny the existence of Allaah and claim that ad- Dahr (time) manages and disposes the affairs of the world.

Allaah, The Most High, says concerning them:

And they say: “There is nothing but our life of this world, we die and we live and nothing destroys us except ad-Dahr (time). And they have no knowledge of it: they only conjecture.” [Qur’aan, soorat al-Jaathiyah (45): 24].

The Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) said:

“Allaah Said, ‘The son of Adam annoys Me for he abuses Ad-Dahr though I am Ad- Dahr (Time); in My Hands are all things, and I cause the revolution of day and night’.” [Agreed upon hadeeth. Saheeh al-Bukhaaree, vol. 6, no.351].

The statement “I am ad-Dahr,” means that Allaah is The One Who manages Time as explained in the hadeeth itself: “In My Hands are all things [including Time].” Allaah is The One who Created everything and who disposes the affairs of everything [including Time]. It is wrong, therefore, to attribute anything to Time.

The Answer: First I would like to comment on your saying that they are intellectual. So, if you mean by the intellect that of contemplation, then yes! They are intellectuals who contemplate and understand; and if you mean by that the maturity of the intellect and its following of the right way in its affairs (Rushd), then they are not intellectuals. That is why Allaah described the Kuffaar as deaf, dumb, and blind, so they have no sense. They are, however, intellectuals–having the intellect of contemplation, through which evidence is established upon them.

In reality when they say that Allaah does not exist they say this out of arrogance, otherwise they know it is impossible that an erected door makes itself exist nor does it make itself stand upright. They know that it is inevitable that such door needed a carpenter or a blacksmith to build. It is also certain that it needed a construction worker to install. Indeed they know the food they eat and the water they drink definitely is in need of someone to produce and that the food is in need of someone to sow its seeds. They also know that it is impossible for anyone from the people to create such seed-produce, nor to make its seed grow to become a standing crop having stems and bearing fruits.

They know all of this, and they know that this is something which humans are incapable of doing. They, however, are being arrogant, and there is no benefit in debating with an arrogant. He will never accept [the truth], no matter what it may be. If you tell him, “This is the sun” and it is right before him, he will not accept. It is a waste of time to argue with people of this kind, and, as stated by some scholars, the way to invite them is to contend with them in fight not in debates.

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When he is advised in regard to certain things with which he disobeys Allaah, he says: “at-Taqwaa is here in my Chest” – Rebuttal by Shaykh ibn Uthaymeen

Advising the one who says “Taqwa is here” and he continues to Sin

A Doubt and its Rebuttle

Question 15: What lead to this question is that nowadays there is a group of people when they are called to worship Allaah they say: “Allaah is the Rabb of the hearts.” We would like also that you comment on this response?

The Answer: We say that Allaah is indeed the Rabb of the hearts as well as the tongues. He is not the Rabb of the hearts only; and if the hearts become good then the limbs become good, because the Prophet صلى الله عليه و سلم says:

Verily, there is a piece of flesh in the body, if it becomes good [reformed], the whole of the body becomes good but if it gets spoilt the whole body gets spoilt and that is the heart. [29]

This Hadeeth renders the futile and false the claim by some, who when you advise him in regard to certain things with which he disobeys Allaah, he says: “at-Taqwaa [30] is right here,” and he points towards his chest.[31]

His is a word of truth intended to imply something futile. In fact a word may be true in its general sense, but the speaker intends to imply by it a futile meaning. Indeed think of the Saying of Allaah, The Most High, concerning the Mushriks:

The Mushriks will say: “If Allaah had willed, we would have not committed Shirk, nor would our fathers, and we would not have forbidden anything [against His Will]! [Qur’aan, soorat al-An’aam (6): 148].

So, they said: “If Allaah had willed, we would have not committed Shirk,” and they were truthful in that which they said. Because if Allaah had willed, they would have not committed Shirk. They, however, did not intend the truth by using this word. Rather, they wanted to justify their staying on their Shirk and the lifting of punishment from upon them. This is why Allaah, The Most High, Said:

Likewise belied those who were before them, [they argued falsely with Allaah’s Messengers], till they tasted of Our Wrath. [Qur’aan, soorat al-An’aam (6): 148].

So, of no avail to them was the use of al-Qadar [32] [Allaah’s Pre-decree] as a plea when they intended it to be a justification for continuing on their Shirk, and an excuse for lifting the blame and punishment from upon themselves. [33]

The actual fact, however, is exactly as they have put it: “If Allaah had not willed, they would not have committed Shirk,” as Allaah, The Most High, said to His Messenger:

Follow what has been inspired to you [O Muhammad صلى الله عليه و سلم] from your Rabb, Laa Ilaaha Illaa Huwa [none has the right to be worshipped but He] and turn aside from the Mushriks. Had Allaah willed, they would have not committed Shirk. [Qur’aan, soorat al-An’aam (6): 106-107].

There is, however, a difference between the two cases. In the latter case, Allaah Said to His Prophet (what means): “Had Allaah willed, they would have not committed Shirk,” in order to clarify that their Shirk occurs by His Will, and that He, The One free of all imperfections, The Most High, has a Wisdom as to the committing of Shirk by them; and in order to comfort His Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) that this action of theirs (Shirk) takes place by His, The Exalted and Most High’s, Will.

Therefore, the important thing is that the person who says when you give him advice: “at-Taqwaa is here [i.e. in his heart],” has said a true word indeed. However, he intended by it something futile and false, because the one who said: “at- Taqwaa is here…” is the Prophet صلى الله عليه و سلم, the same one who also said:

“Verily, there is a piece of flesh in the body, if it becomes good [reformed], the whole of the body becomes good…”

If there is Taqwaa in the heart, then it is imperative that there is Taqwaa in the limbs, and the outward actions are a sign of the inward actions of the heart.

Footnotes:

[29] An agreed upon hadeeth. See Saheeh al-Bukhaaree, vol.1, no. 49.
[30] The true meaning of at-Taqwaa is fearing Allaah and hoping for His Mercy by executing His Commands and staying away from all that He has forbidden.
[31] The Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) in the authentic hadeeth reported by Muslim said: “A Muslim is the brother of a Muslim. He neither oppresses him nor humiliates him nor looks down upon him. The Taqwaa is here [and while saying so] he pointed towards his chest thrice.” See Saheeh Muslim, vol. 4, no.6219.
[32] Al-Qadar: Allaah’s Pre-ordainment of the creation in accordance with His Foreknowledge, and in accordance with His Wisdom.
[33] In his book Sharh al-Usool ath-Thalaathah, Shaykh Muhammd Bin ‘Uthaymeen, may Allaah’s Mercy be upon him, said: “If there had been any excuse for them in al-Qadar then Allaah would not have sent down His Punishment upon them.” See Sharh al-Usool ath-Thalaathah [English Translation by brother Daawood Burbank], p.186, Daar al- Hidaayah Publishing, Birmingham, U.K.

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A Must Read – You Do Not Know What Is In My Heart – Q&A With Shaykh Ahmad Bazmool

Meaning of ‘Ibaadah (Worship) – Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen

Question 2: Is there a meaning for ‘Ibaadah (worship) such that it is possible for us to know of? Does it have a general and a specific meaning?

The Answer: Yes. Its general meaning is as I have indicated earlier, namely the submission to Allaah, the Mighty and Majestic, with love and awe by doing that which He commands and avoiding that which He has forbidden, and in the manner set forth by His legislations. This is the general meaning.

The specific meaning, i.e. its meaning in detail, then, as Shaykh-ul-Islaam ibn Taymeeyah said,

“It is a comprehensive name covering whatever Allaah loves and is pleased with, both sayings and actions, the apparent and the hidden, such as fearing (Khawf), having awe (Khashyah), having true trust and reliance (Tawakkul), Prayers (Salaat), Zakaat (obligatory charity), Fasting (Siyaam) and the like, from the ordinances of Islaam.”

Then if you mean that the general and specific meaning [of ‘Ibaadah] is what has been mentioned by some scholars, namely that ‘Ibaadah is either Kawniyyah or Shar’iyyah, meaning that man could be in a Kawniyyah and Shar’iyyah state of submission to Allaah, then the Kawniyyah worship is a general one, comprising the believer and unbeliever and the righteous as well as the wicked, due to the saying of Allaah, the Most High:

There is none in the heavens and the earth but comes to Ar-Rahmaan as a slave. [Qur’aan, soorat Maryam (19): 93].

Therefore all that is in the heavens and the earth is, in the universal sense (Kawnee), submitting to Allaah, The One free from all imperfection. None can stand to oppose Allaah or work against Him in whatever He wants as to His Universal Will.

As to the specific worship, al-‘Ibaadah ash-Shari’yyah, which is the submission to Allaah, the Most High’s, Shar'(legislation), then this is specific to the believers in Allaah, the One free of all imperfection, who carry out His Command. Then some of this is more specific and some is less. The more specific worship is like that of the Messengers ‘alyayhimussalaatu was salaam as signified in the Saying of Allaah, The Most High:

Blessed be He Who sent down the criterion (of right and wrong, i.e. this Qur’aan) to His slave (Muhammad صلى الله عليه و سلم). [Qur’aan, sooart al-Furqaan (25): 1].

Also in His Saying:

And if you (Arab pagans, Jews, and Christians) are in doubt concerning that which We have sent down (i.e. Qur’aan) to Our slave (Muhammad صلى الله عليه و سلم), then produce a Soorah of the like thereof and call your witnesses (supporters and helpers) besides Allaah, if you are truthful. [Qur’aan, soorat al-Baqarah (2): 23],

Also in His Saying:

And remember Our slaves, Ibraaheem, Ishaaq, and Ya’qoob, [all] owners of strength [in worshipping Us] and [also] of religious understanding, [Qur’aan, soorat Saad (38): 45]

And the likes of these ayaat describe the Messengers, ‘alayhimus-salaat was-salaam, with al-‘Uboodiyyah.

Question 3: Would those specifically choosing al-‘Ibaadah al-Kawniyyah and excluding al-‘Ibaadah ash-Shar’iyya, be rewarded?

The Answer: Those will not be rewarded for it, because they are submitting to Allaah willingly or unwillingly. And so man may get sick, turn poor, and lose(s) his beloved ones having no desire whatsoever for this. In fact, he dislikes it. But this is submission to Allaah, the Mighty and Majestic, in the universal (Kawnee) sense.

Posted from eBook – Understanding Worship – Fiqh ul-‘Ibadah – QA Format – Ibn Uthaymeen – Dr Saleh as Saleh

Related Post Benefit: ’Abd and  ‘Ibaad of Allaah – Dr. Saleh as Saleh rahimahullaah

Free Mixing and crowding on the buses/trains/undergrounds – Imam Ibn Uthaymeen

Scholar: Imâm Muhammad bin Sâlih bin ´Uthaymîn
Source: http://www.ibnothaimeen.com/all/noor/…
Translation and Video by  aFatwa.com (site is down)

Question: In our country the means of transport are in groups and mixed and sometimes touching some women might occur accidentally or unwillingly in result to the crowding, so are we sinful upon that? And what do we do when we don’t have any other way (in transport) and we are in need of it?

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymîn: What is obligatory upon the man is to avoid touching women meaning to crowd (women) where his body touches/attaches to their bodies even behind a barrier. As that is a call to fitna and the human is not infallible, as he could see himself to be cautious regarding these matters and not being affected by it however;

Shaytân circulates in the body of a son of Adam as his blood circulates in it.” (Bukhârî).

So perhaps he makes a move that will corrupt his way. Therefore, if the human is compelled into this like a necessity that is inevitable and he is diligent knowing that he will not be affected (by the fitna) then I hope that there’s no harm upon him. However in my opinion I think that he is not forced into this an inevitable necessity as he can look for a place that is not near a woman even if he stood up . And by that he will get rid of this matter that will bring fitna. And what is an obligation is that he fears Allâh Almighty the best way he can and not belittle these matters. And we also hope from those who organize the means of transportation to make a specific place for women so men cannot reach them.

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Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen about the Arab rulers

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen about the Arab rulers (exclusive, detailed Fatwâ)

Scholar: Imâm Muhammad bin Sâlih bin ´Uthaymîn
Source: Liqâ’ al-Bâb al-Maftûh (51 B)
Reference: Darulhadith.com
Translation and Video by aFatwa.com (site is down)

Question: There is a matter it is written much about and it goes by the name “Ahl-us-Sunnah wal-Jamâ’ah” while in fact it is the methodology of Khawârij. We would like to confirm this matter with you. It is namely about the general legislation the rulers are judged by. They argue with your Fatwas in “al-Majmû’ ath-Thamîn” and that this deed is clear disbelief since it is about Tabdîl, replacement. This opinion is also attributed to Shaykh Muhammad bin Ibrâhîm [Âl ash-Shaykh] (rahimahullâh). In order for the answer to be explicit and clear, the question goes as follows; does one take into consideration the factors that hinder from Takfîr or the Iqâmat-ul-Hujjah which Ahl-us-Sunnah wal-Jamâ’ah put as a condition for the one who rules by a general legislation rather than the law of Allâh?

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymîn: A factor that hinders from Takfîr shouldn’t exist when a person performs a disbelieving deed [I.e. if we are to do Takfîr]. It is therefore mentioned in the authentic Hadîth when the prophet (sallâ Allâhu ‘alayhi wa sallam) was asked if they should fight against the rulers that he said:

“Except if you see clear and explicit disbelief of which you have proof from Allâh.”

The disbelief has to be clear and known and it shouldn’t be possible to misunderstand it. If one can misunderstand it, then one doesn’t do Takfîr on the person who falls into it (this deed) EVEN IF THE DEED IS DISBELIEF. There is a difference between the speech and the speaker and (between) the deed and the doer. The deed can be a defiant sin without the person (whom performs it) being a defiant sinner because there is an obstacle that hinders him from being it. It can also be disbelief without the person being a disbeliever because there is an obstacle that hinders him from being is (I.e. a disbeliever).

It was nothing other than this unsound misinterpretation that made the rebellion of the Khawârij harm the Islâmic Ummah. Khawârij get the idea that the deed is disbelief and (thusly) they revolt, which they said to ‘Alî bin Abî Tâlib. They were together with ‘Alî bin Abî Tâlib against the army of Shâm. After the peace treaty between ‘Alî bin Abî Tâlib and Shâm, Khawârij revolted against him after having been with him. He fought against them and killed them and all praise is due to Allâh. The point lies in the fact that they revolted against him and said:

“You have judged by something other than the law of Allâh. You have let the human judge.”

As a result thereof, they revolted against him. Thus, the catastrophe of the Ummah is because of this misinterpretation. A person can mistakenly get the idea that something is clear and explicit disbelief and revolt (due to it). It is possible that the deed really is disbelief without its doer being a disbeliever because of an obstacle (I.e. ignorance, compulsion etc). The rebel believes that this person is free from excuses and (thus) does the likes of these revolts.

Therefore, a person has to make sure not to be in a hurry with making Takfîr or Tafsîq upon the humans. There is a risk that a person falls into a clear, defiant sin without knowing about it. When he finds out that it is forbidden, he thanks you (Jazâk Allâhu khayr) and leaves it. Does this exist? Yes, beyond the shadow of a doubt [it does]. How can I then judge a person to be a defiant sinner while he hasn’t received the truth?

Those you accuse among the Arab and Muslim rulers can be excused. They have perhaps not received the truth. They maybe have received it while at the same time somebody made them misunderstand the matter. Thus, one has to be sensible when it comes to this matter.

Let us say that all of the conditions have been met for us to be allowed to revolt in the way that we have seen clear and explicit disbelief of which we have proof from Allâh. It is a condition to have seen it. The disbelief is a condition. That it is clear and explicit is a condition. That we have proof of it from Allâh is a condition. These are four conditions. His (sallâ Allâhu ‘alayhi wa sallam) words “except if you see…” are there so that one doesn’t fall victim to baseless rumours. It means that one should be convinced. The word “disbelief” (Kufr) is there so that one doesn’t get hung up on a defiant sin. If the ruler is a sinning alcoholic without having fallen into disbelief, then it is not allowed to revolt against him. The words “clear and explicit” mean that it is definite and that it (the Kufr) can’t be misinterpreted. The fourth is “of which you have proof from Allâh”. It should thusly not only be definite according to us. Rather, we should base ourselves on clear and definite evidence. These four conditions are the conditions for it to be allowed to revolt.

However, there is a fifth condition for the revolt to be obligatory. Is it obligatory for us to revolt against the ruler just because it is allowed? One has to consider the advantage. Are we able to overthrow him? [If yes] then in this case we revolt. If we are unable, then we do not revolt. All religious duties are only [duties] if they are doable.

Moreover, if we are able to revolt, then there is a risk that the disadvantage is greater and worse than if this leader were to keep his (position as a) leader. If we revolt against him and he wins, we become more humiliated while he becomes even worse in his transgression and disbelief.

These matters require common sense and that it is tethered with the Sharî’ah and that it isn’t led by emotions. We are in need of emotions in order to have enthusiasm and we are in need of the Sharî’ah to curb us. We have to have brakes. A car without brakes will crash and a car without power doesn’t drive.

Can a Woman get Married without a Wali (Guardian) ? – Imam Ibn Uthaymeen

Scholar: Allamah Imam Muhammad bin Salih bin Uthaymin
Source: ibnothaimeen.com/all/noor/article_6493.shtml
Video by: aFatwa.com (site is down)

Question: Is it permissible for the virgin woman who has no wali (guardian) or without his presence to marry herself off or not? And is there in this ruling a difference between a virgin or a previously married whether divorced or widowed?

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymin: It is not permissible for the woman to marry herself off or others whether she is a virgin or previously married.

And that is because Allâh, Glorified and Exalted, has made the contract of marriage in the hands of other than the woman as He said:

{And do not marry polytheistic women}
(The Qur’ân, interpretation of the meaning 2:221)

In men He said

{And do not let marry polytheistic men}
(The Qur’ân, interpretation of the meaning 2:221)

and He added that the marriage is for the husband himself but with the women He said:

{And do not let marry polytheistic men [to your women] until they believe.}
(The Qur’ân, interpretation of the meaning 2:221)

So He made the marriage in the hands of other than the woman and He, Glorified and Exalted, said:

{Do not prevent them from remarrying their [former] husbands if they agree among themselves on an acceptable basis.}
(The Qur’ân, interpretation of the meaning 2:232)

And from the narration of the Prophet, peace & blessings of Allâh be upon him:

There’s no marriage without a wali (guardian).” (Bukhâri)

So that is the proof of the narration that there’s no other option for the woman than with a guardian marrying her off.

As from the point of view then the woman is deficient in intellect and religion as she is limited in thinking and she is also weak in religion and I say this from the narration of the Messenger of Allâh, peace & blessings of Allâh be upon him:

I have not seen anyone more deficient in intellect and religion than you. A cautious sensible man can be led astray by some of you.” (Bukhâri)

And from the saying of Allâh Almighty:

{Men are in charge of women by [right of] what Allâh has given one over the other and what they spend [for maintenance] from their wealth.}
(The Qur’ân, interpretation of the meaning 4:34)

And if it wasn’t for the deficiency of the woman then a man would not be in charge of her but rather in the âyah:

{by [right of] what Allâh has given one over the other}
(The Qur’ân, interpretation of the meaning 4:34)

So if the woman was in such description, as the Qur’ân and Sunnah indicated, from deficiency of intellect and religion then she is in need of a guiding guardian who knows the appropriate/capable and knows the interests of marriage and knows who the woman is for him until he decides to marry her off or refrain (from such). This is why there should be a guardian for the woman to marry her off within the known requirements to the people of knowledge.

And the woman shall not marry herself off whether she is a virgin or previously married. However, there is an issue that should be noted/addressed which is that a woman must be asked for permission and consent whether she was a virgin or previously married and whether the one who marries her off is her father or anyone else. And the most correct saying is that it is not permissible for the man to marry his daughter off or anyone else until she agrees upon that husband and gives permission.

However, if she is a virgin then her permission is enough by being silence and if she stated/uttered to agree then that is better/complete however being silent is enough. And if she is previously married then she must state (speak) to agree and says ‘Yes’ that she agrees to marry this man.

And as for the guardian whether it is the father or anyone else, he must describe the suitor to the woman with a description that will take her to know him (suitor). So he does not say ‘do you want me to marry you to such’ until he clarifies to her the situation of this man and his description because as much as the man wants in a woman in beauty and righteousness, a woman wants this too in a man in beauty and righteousness. Therefore the man must clarify to the woman whose permission is sought (for marriage) in a way which takes her to know him but vagueness will not lead to the goal. Of course if the woman trusts fully her guardian and will suffice with what her guardian sees and she asked for example ‘are you happy/convinced with him (the suitor)’ in regards to his religion and to his manners then this would suffice if she trusts him and she is pleased with what he (guardian) is pleased with.

Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen about the Saudi Arabian government

Scholar: Imâm Muhammad bin Sâlih bin ´Uthaymîn
Source: Liqâ’ al-Bâb al-Maftûh (128 A)
Date: 1417-02-04/1996-06-20
Reference: Darulhadith.com
Audio and Translation courtesy of aFatwa.com (site is down)

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymîn:

As for this government, you know that the country rules by Islâmic Sharî’ah. The judges only judge by Islâmic Sharî’ah. The fast is maintained. The pilgrimage is maintained. The lectures in the mosques are maintained. As for the one who errs or is liable to fall into a tribulation (fitnah), then both the evil and that which leads to the evil has to be prevented.

If we (take a) look at our country, we neither see buildings upon the graves, Tawâf around the graves or Sûfiyyah’s and others innovations publicly. However, it is possible that some [people] possess the innovations of Sûfiyyah and the like that they keep for themselves. On the other hand, all societies have some form of corruption.

If we consider this and compare it with other adjacent countries outside of Saudi Arabia, we see a very big difference. Alcoholic drinks (Khamr) are sold openly in the stores in some adjacent countries. The restaurants are open in daytime during Ramadhân so that one can eat and drink as much as one wants. There are prostitutes in public. Some who travel to these countries as tourists told me that one is asked as soon as one arrives at the airport:

“There are boys and girls. What do you want?”

This is taking place publicly. One has to face the facts concerning one’s government and one’s country. He should not disseminate the bad sides that the ruler might be excused for and completely ignore the good sides. It is as if there is nothing good at all in the government. It is not fair. Allâh (ta’âlâ) said:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ كُونُواْ قَوَّامِينَ لِلّهِ شُهَدَاء بِالْقِسْطِ وَلاَ يَجْرِمَنَّكُمْ شَنَآنُ قَوْمٍ عَلَى أَلاَّ تَعْدِلُواْ اعْدِلُواْ هُوَ أَقْرَبُ لِلتَّقْوَى

” O you who believe! Stand out firmly for Allâh and be just witnesses and let not the enmity and hatred of others make you avoid justice. Be just: that is nearer to piety, and fear Allâh.” (5:8, interpretation of the meanings)

If someone were to ask why something like this happens, then the answer is primarily an unrestrained vigilance. It is neither curbed by the Sharî’ah nor the common sense, which is due to ignorance. Secondly, it is due to the desire. Thus, all of it is due to two things: Ignorance about the Sharî’ah or the wisdom or also the desire. Although he knows that it is wrong he (still) disseminates these things that entice the people away from the rulers and fills them with hate towards them. He does it only because he has something against the rulers and wants to vent his anger on them.

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How To Perform The Rituals Of Hajj And Umrah – Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen

Published by Dawah Center Jeddah (1992)

Click the below link to read or download PDF
How To Perform The Rituals Of Hajj & Umrah – Shaykh Ibnul-Uthaymeen [PDF]

How To Perform The Rituals Of Hajj And Umrah – Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen

In The Name of Allaah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Preface

Praise be to Allaah, Lord of the Universe. May peace and blessings be upon Muhammad, the last of the prophets and messengers, and upon his family and esteemed companions.

Hajj is one of the best forms of worship and is one of the most sublime deeds because it is one of the pillars of Islam that Allaah sent Muhammad (may the peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) with. A servant’s religion is incomplete without it.

A form of worship is only acceptable when the following is true.

1. One devotes it to Allaah alone, with a desire for the Hereafter. It cannot be done with the intention of being seen among men or for worldly gain.

2. One follows the Prophet’s example, in words deeds. This cannot accomplished except knowledge of the Sunnah.

Forms of Pilgrimage

There are three forms of Hajj:

Tamattu’-Ifraad-Qiran

Tamattu‘: A pilgrim wears Ihram for Umrah only during the months of Hajj, which means when he reaches Makkah, he makes Tawaf and Sa’yi for Umrah. He then shaves or clips his hair. On the day of Tarwiya, which is the eighth of Dhul-Hijja, he puts on his Ihram for Hajj only and carries out all of its requirements.

Ifraad: A pilgrim wears Ihram for Hajj only. When he reaches Makkah, he performs Tawaf for his arrival and Sa’yi for Hajj. He doesn’t shave or clip his hair as he doesn’t disengage from Ihram. Instead, he remains in Ihram till after he stones Jamrah Al-Aqaba on the Eid day. It is permissible for him to postpone his Sa’yi for Hajj until after his Tawaf for Hajj.

Qiran: A pilgrim wears Ihram for both Umrah and Hajj or he wears Ihram first for Umrah, then makes intentions for Hajj before his Tawaf for Hajj. The obligations on one performing Ifraad are the same as those on one performing Qiran, except that the latter must slaughter whereas the former is not obligated to do so.

The best of the three forms is Tamattu’. It is the form that the prophet (may the peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) encouraged his followers to perform. Even if a pilgrim makes intentions to perform Qiran or Ifraad he is allowed to change his intentions to Tamattu’; he can do this even after he has performed Tawaf and Sa’yi.

When the Prophet (may the peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) performed Tawaf and Sa’yi during the year of the Farewell Hajj with his companions, he ordered all those who hadn’t brought sacrificial animals to change their intentions for Hajj to intentions for Umrah. cut their hair, and disengage from Ihram till Hajj. He said, ” If I hadn’t brought the sacrificial animal, I’d have done what I’ve ordered you to do.”

The Umrah

If a pilgrim wishes to be ritually pure for Umrah, he should shed his clothing and bathe as he would after sexual defilement, if convenient. He should perfume his head and beard with the best oil he can find. There is no harm in what remains of it after Ihram.

Bathing for Ihram is Sunnah for both men and women, including menstruating women and those experiencing postnatal bleeding. After bathing and preparing himself, a. pilgrim, other than those menstruating or experiencing postnatal bleeding, prays the obligatory prayer, if it is time. Otherwise, he makes his intention by praying the two Sunnah Rakaas which are made each time Wudhu is performed.

When he finishes his prayer he should say:

“Here I am for Umrah, here I am, Oh Allaah, here I am. Here I am. You have no partner. Here I am. Surely all praise, grace and dominion is yours, and you have no partner.” [Talbeeyah].

A man raises his voice when saying this and a woman says it so that only one beside her may hear her.

One in Ihram should say the Talbeeyah as often as possible, especially when times and places change. For example: when descending or ascending during travel or when day or night approach. He should also ask Allaah for His pleasure, for Heaven and seek refuge in Allaah’s mercy from Hellfire.

One should say the Talbeeyah during Umrah, starting from the time he puts on his Ihram till he starts Tawaf. During Hajj he should say it starting from the time he puts on his Ihram till he starts to stone Jamrah Al-Aqaba on the Eid day.

When a pilgrim enters the Holy Mosque he puts forth his right foot first and says:

“In the name of Allaah, may peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allaah. Oh Allaah, forgive me my sins and open to me the doors of Your mercy. I seek refuge in Allaah the Almighty and in His Eminent Face and in His Eternal Dominion from the accursed Satan.”

He approaches the Black Stone, touches it with his right hand and kisses it. If this isn’t possible, he should face the Black Stone and point to it.

It is best not to push and shove, causing harm and being harmed by other people.

When touching the Stone, a pilgrim should say the following:

“In the name of Allaah, Allaah is the greatest. Oh, Allaah, with faith in you, belief in Your book, loyalty to you, compliance to the way of your Prophet Muhammad (may the peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him).”

A pilgrim must walk, keeping the Ka’bah on his left. When he reaches the Rukn Al Yamani he should touch, but not kiss it, and say:

” Our Lord, grant us good in this life and good in the hereafter and save us from the punishment of the Hell fire. Oh Allaah, I beg of You for forgiveness and health in this life and in the Hereafter.”

Each time he passes the Black Stone he should say: “Allaah is the Greatest.”

During the remainder of his Tawaf he may say what he pleases of supplications, mentioning Allaah, and recitation of Quran. This is because Tawaf, Sa’yi, and Stoning the Jamrah have been devised for the purpose of mentioning Allaah.

During this Tawaf it is necessary for a man to do two things:

1. Al-ldhtebaa’ from the beginning of Tawaf until the end. Al-ldhtebaa’ means placing the middle of one’s Reda’ under his right arm and the ends of it over his left shoulder.

When he is finished performing Tawaf, he may return his Reda’ to its original state because the time for Idhtebaa’ is only during Tawaf.

2. Al-Raml during the first three circuits. Al-Raml means speeding up one’s pace with small steps. A pilgrim should walk at a normal pace during his last four circuits.

When he completes seven circuits of Tawaf, he approaches Maqam Ibrahim and recites:

“And take ye the station of Abraham as a place of Prayer” Chapter 2, Verse 125 [2:125].

He prays two short Rakaas, as close as conveniently possible, behind Maqam Ibrahim. During the first Rakaa he recites Surah Al-Kafirun [Chapter 109] and during the second one Surah Al-lkhlas [Chapter 112].

When he completes the two Rakaas he should return to the Black Stone and touch it, if convenient. He goes out to the Mesa’a and when he nears As-Safaa he recites:

“Verily As-Safaa and Al-Marwah are among the shrines of Allaah ” [2:158].

He ascends As-Safaa until he is able to see the Ka’bah. Facing the Ka’bah and raising his hands, he praises Allaah and makes any supplications he chooses. The Prophet (may the peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) prayed thus: “There is no Deity but Allaah alone,” three times, supplicating in between.

He descends As-Safaa and heads for Al-Marwah at a normal pace until he reaches the green marker. He should then run fast until the next green marker. He continues toward Al-Marwah at a normal pace. When he reaches it, he ascends it, faces the Qibla, raises his hands and repeats what he said on As-Safaa. He descends Al-Marwah heading towards As-Safaa, taking care to walk where walking is designated, and run where running is designated.

He continues this procedure until he completes seven laps. Going from As-Safaa to Al-Marwah is a lap and returning is another lap.

During his Sa’yi he may recite what he wills of supplications, recitation of Qur’an, and mentioning Allaah.

In completion of Sa’yi he shaves his head. A woman clips her hair the length of a finger tip.

Shaving is preferable, except when Hajj is near and there isn’t sufficient time for hair to grow back. In this case it’s best to clip so that hair will remain for shaving during Hajj.

With that, Umrah is completed. and a pilgrim is free to dress in other clothing, wear perfume and engage in marital relations, etc.

The Hajj

In the forenoon of the eighth day of Dhul-Hijja, a pilgrim purifies himself once again by bathing as he did before Umrah in the place in which he is staying, if convenient. He puts on his Ihram and says:

” Here I am for Hajj. Here I am, oh Allaah, here I am. Here I am. You have no partner. Here I am. Surely all praise, grace and dominion is yours, and you have no partners.”

If he fears that something will prevent him from completing his Hajj he should make a condition when he makes his intentions, saying:

“If I am prevented by any obstacle my place is wherever I am held up.”

If he has no such fear, he doesn’t make this condition.

A pilgrim goes to Mina and there prays Dhuhr, Asr, Magrib, Isha and Fajr, shortening his four unit prayers so as to make them two units each, without combining them.

When the sun rises, he goes to Arafah and there prays Dhuhr and Asr combined at the time of Dhuhr, making each one two units. He remains in Namira Mosque until sunset if possible. He remembers Allaah and makes as many supplications as possible while facing the Qibla.

The Prophet (may the peace and blessing of Allaah be upon him) prayed thus:

“There is no Deity but Allaah alone. He has no partner. All dominion and praise are His and He is powerful over all things.

If he grows weary it is permissible for him to engage in beneficial conversation with his companions or reading what he can find of beneficial books, especially those concerning Allaah’s grace and abundant gifts. This will strengthen his hope in Allaah.

He should then return to his supplications and be sure to spend the end of the day deep in supplication because the best of supplication is the supplication of the day of Arafah.

At sunset he goes from Arafah to Muzdalifah and there prays Magrib, Isha, and Fajr. If he is tired or has little water, it is permissible for him to combine Magrib and Isha. If he fears that he will not reach Muzdalifah until after midnight, he should pray before he reaches it for it is not permissible to delay prayer until after midnight. He remains there, in Muzdalifah, making supplications and remembering Allaah till just before sunrise.

If he is weak and cannot handle the crowd during Ar-Ramy, it is permissible for him to go to Mina at the end of the night to stone the Jamrah before the arrival of the crowd.

Near sunrise, a pilgrim goes from Muzdalifah to Mina. Upon reaching it he does the following:

  • a) He throws seven consecutive pebbles at Jamrah Al-Aqaba which is the closest monument to Makkah, saying “Allaah is the Greatest,” as he  throws each pebble.
  • b) He slaughters the sacrificial animal, eats some of it, and gives some to the poor. Slaughter is obligatory on the Mutamati and Qiran.
  • c) He shaves or clips his hair; shaving is preferable. A woman clips her hair the length of a finger tip.

These three should be done in the above order if convenient, but there is no restriction if one precedes another.

With that, one is allowed to come out of Ihram. He can wear other clothing and do everything that was lawful before Ihram except engaging in marital relations.

He goes to Makkah to perform Tawaf Al-lfadha and Sa’yi, also for Hajj. It is Sunnah to put perfume on before going to Makkah.

With the completion of this Tawaf and Sa’yi, a pilgrim is allowed to do everything that was lawful before Ihram, including engaging in marital relations.

After performing Tawaf and Sa’yi, he returns to Mina to spend the nights of the eleventh and twelfth days there.

He stones the three Jamrah in the afternoon of both the eleventh and twelfth days. He starts with the first Jamrah, which is furthest from Makkah, then the middle one, and lastly Jamrah Al-Aqaba. Each one should be stoned with seven consecutive pebbles accompanied by Takbeer. He stops after the first and middle Jamrah to make supplications facing the Qibla. It is not permissible to stone before noon on these two days. It is best to walk to the Jamrah, but riding is permissible.

If he is in a hurry after stoning on the twelfth day, he leaves Mina before sunset. But if he wishes to prolong his stay, which is best, he spends the night of the thirteenth in Mina and stones that afternoon in the same manner as on the twelfth day.

When he is ready to return to his country, he makes Tawaf Al-Wadaa, which is seven circuits around the Ka’bah. Menstruating women and women experiencing postnatal discharge are not obligated to perform Tawaf Al-Wadaa.

Visiting The Prophet’s Mosque

1. A pilgrim goes to Madina before or after Hajj with the intention of visiting the Prophet’s mosque and praying in it. Prayer there is better than a thousand prayers elsewhere except in the Holy Mosque in Makkah.

2. Upon reaching the mosque he prays two Rakaas of salutation or performs any obligatory prayer that is due.

3. He goes to the grave of the Prophet (may the peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and he stands before it. He greets him saying the ” May the peace, mercy, and blessings of Allaah be upon you, oh Prophet. May Allaah grant you a good reward on behalf of your people. “

He takes a step or two to his right to position himself before Abu-Bakr and greets him saying : “May the peace, mercy, and blessing of Allaah be upon you. oh Abu-Bakr, Caliph of the Messenger of Allaah. May Allaah be pleased with you and grant you a good reward on behalf of Muhammad’s people.”

Then he takes a step or two to his right to position himself before Umar and greets him saying: ” May the peace, mercy and blessings of Allaah be upon you, oh Umar, Prince of the believers. May Allaah be pleased with you and grant you a good reward on behalf of Muhammad’s people.”

4. In a state of purity, he goes to pray in Qubaa Mosque.

5. He goes to Al-Baqee to visit Uthman’s grave (may Allaah be pleased with him). He stands before it and greets him saying:

“May the peace, mercy and blessing of Allaah be upon you, oh Uthman Prince of the believers. May Allaah be pleased with you and grant you a good reward on behalf of Muhammad’s people.”

He greets any other Muslims in Al-Baqee.

6. He goes to Uhud and visits the grave of Hamza (may Allaah be pleased with him) and the other martyrs there with him. He greets them and preys to Allaah to grant them forgiveness, mercy, and pleasure.

Notification

The following is incumbent upon the Muhrim for Hajj or Umrah:

1. That he be committed to Allaah’s religious obligations upon him such as prayer in its time (in congregation for men).

2. That he avoids what Allaah has prohibited such as obscenity, inequity, and disobedience. if anyone undertakes Hajj therein. Let there be no obscenity, nor wickedness, nor wrangling during Hajj ~ [2:197].

3. That he avoids harming the Muslims with words or actions within the Masha’ir or elsewhere.

4. That he avoids all of the restrictions of Ihram:

a. He shouldn’t cause the loss of any of his hair or nails. A prick by a thorn and the like is unobjectionable, even if there is bleeding.

b. He shouldn’t perfume himself, his clothing, his food or his drink after entering Ihram. He should also abstain from cleansing himself with scented soap. There is no harm in what remains of the effect of perfume used prior to Ihram.

c. He shouldn’t touch, kiss, etc. his spouse out of passion and, even worse, shouldn’t have sexual intercourse.

e. He shouldn’t be wed or propose to a woman for himself or others.  He shouldn’t wear gloves, although there is no harm in wrapping the hands in cloth. This ruling goes for both men and women.

The following pertains specifically to men:

a) He cannot cover his head with something that touches it, although there is no harm in the use of an umbrella, the roof of a car or tent for shade. There is also no harm in carrying his baggage atop his head.

b) He cannot wear a shirt, turban, hooded cloak trousers, or shoes. Only if he is unable to obtain an Ezar or sandals can he wear trousers or shoes.

c) He cannot wear anything with the same qualities of the above mentioned such as an Abea’, Qubaa, hat, undershirt, etc.

It is permissible for him to wear sandals, rings, glasses, a hearing aid. a watch, worn on his wrist or hung from his neck, or a speech aid.

It is permissible for him to cleanse himself with unscented cleansers and to wash and scratch his head and body, even if some of his hair falls unintentionally. In such a case there is no obligation on him because of it.

A woman cannot wear a Niqab or Burqa’. The Sunnah is for her to uncover her face except if men not related to her might see her, in which case it is obligatory for her to cover her face during Ihram and otherwise.

Allaah is the giver of success. May His blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad and all of his family and companions.

By the needy before Allaah, Muhammad As-Salih Al-Uthaimeen


Glossary

Abaya’: cloak like, woolen wrap.
Abu Bakr: first Muslim Caliph.
Al-Baqee’: a place in Madina.
Al-ldhtebaa:placing the middle of the Reda’ under the right arm and the ends of it over the left shoulder during Tawaf.
Al-lkhlas: Chapter 112 (Purity of Faith).
Al-Kafirun: Chapter 109 of the Qur’an ( Those who reject Faith).
AlMarwah: name of the hillock where a Muslim begins Sa’yi.
Al-Raml: walking quickly but with small steps during the first three circuits of Tawaf.
Arafah: the most important stop during Hajj, located beyond Muzdalifah.
Ar-Ramy– The Stoning.
As-Safaa: name of the hillock where a Muslim ends his last lap of Sa’yi.
Asr: the afternoon prayer.
Burqa’: a face veil like a Niqab.
Dhul-Hijja: the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar.
Dhuhr: the noon prayer.
Eid: celebration for Muslims.
Ezaar: lower cloth of Ihram.
Fajr: dawn prayer.
Hajj: official Muslim pilgrimage to Makkah.
Hamza: one of the Prophet’s uncles and a martyr during the battle of Uhud.
Ifraad: isolated form of Hajj.
Ihram: the ceremonial state of making Hajj or the Hajj garments themselves. Isha night prayer.
Jamrah: Monument in Mina.
Jamrah Al-Aqaba: the monument closest to Makkah.
Ka’bah: the house of Allaah in the Holy Mosque in Makkah.
Magrib: dusk prayer.
Maqam Ibrahim: the stepping stone of the prophet Abraham.
Mes’aa: the stretch between As-Safaa and Al-Marwah.
Masha’ir: ceremonial shrines.
Mina: one of the ceremonial shrines, a valley near Makkah.
Muhammad– the last of the prophets, the prophet of Islam.
Muhrim: a person in Ihram.
Mutamati: a pilgrim performing Hajj Tamattu’.
Muzdalifah: one of the ceremonial shrines of Hajj, between Mina and Arafah.
Namira: mosque in Mina.
Niqab: a face veil revealing the eyes through slashes
Qiran: a pilgrim performing Hajj Qiran.
Qibla: the direction Muslims face to pray.
Qiraan: Accompanied form of Hajj.
Quba: a mosque in Madina, used to be on the outskirts.
Qur’an: the Book of Allaah.
Rakaa: a unit of prayer.
Reda’: the upper cloth of Ihram.
Rukn Al-Yamani: the corner of the Ka’bah which faces Yemen.
Sa’yi: the walk made between As-Safaa and Al-Marwah.
Sunnah: way of the Prophet.
Surah: a chapter of the Qur’an.
Takbeer: saying “Allaahu Akbar (“Allaah is Greatest”)
Talbeeya: the supplication a Muslim recites once he is in Ihram and has made his intention.
Tamattu’: enjoyable form of Hajj.
Tarwiyya: the eighth of Dhul-Hijja.
Tawaf: circumambulation of the Ka’bah
Tawaf Al-lfadha: tawaf for Hajj.
Tawaf Al-Wadaa: farewell Tawaf.
Uhud: the name of a mountain in Medina and the site of the battle by this name.
Umar: the second Muslim Caliph and first Prince of the believers.
Umrah-minor Hajj: the combination of Tawaf and Sa’yi.
Uthman: the third Muslim Caliph and second Prince of the believers.
Wudhu: ablution.

Related Beneficial Audio:

Precious Remembrance (Morning & Evening Supplications) – Shaykh Uthaymeen

Du'a : Precious Remembrance –  Shaykh Muhammad Saleh Al Uthaymeen

Click the below link to read or download PDF

The Precious Remembrance – Shaykh Uthaymeen [PDF]

Total 23 Supplications are mentioned in the Book

01. {Soorat-ul-Baqarah: 1-5}

الم  ذَٰلِكَ الْكِتَابُ لَا رَيْبَ ۛ فِيهِ ۛ هُدًى لِّلْمُتَّقِينَ الَّذِينَ يُؤْمِنُونَ بِالْغَيْبِ وَيُقِيمُونَ الصَّلَاةَ وَمِمَّا رَزَقْنَاهُمْ يُنفِقُونَ وَالَّذِينَ يُؤْمِنُونَ بِمَا أُنزِلَ إِلَيْكَ وَمَا أُنزِلَ مِن قَبْلِكَ وَبِالْآخِرَةِ هُمْ يُوقِنُونَ أُولَٰئِكَ عَلَىٰ هُدًى مِّن رَّبِّهِمْ ۖ وَأُولَٰئِكَ هُمُ الْمُفْلِحُونَ

02. {Soorat-ul-Baqarah: 255} Aaayatul-Kursee

03. {Soorat-ul-Baqarah: 285-286}

آمَنَ الرَّسُولُ بِمَا أُنزِلَ إِلَيْهِ مِن رَّبِّهِ وَالْمُؤْمِنُونَ ۚ كُلٌّ آمَنَ بِاللَّهِ وَمَلَائِكَتِهِ وَكُتُبِهِ وَرُسُلِهِ لَا نُفَرِّقُ بَيْنَ أَحَدٍ مِّن رُّسُلِهِ ۚ وَقَالُوا سَمِعْنَا وَأَطَعْنَا ۖ غُفْرَانَكَ رَبَّنَا وَإِلَيْكَ الْمَصِيرُ  لَا يُكَلِّفُ اللَّهُ نَفْسًا إِلَّا وُسْعَهَا ۚ لَهَا مَا كَسَبَتْ وَعَلَيْهَا مَا اكْتَسَبَتْ ۗ رَبَّنَا لَا تُؤَاخِذْنَا إِن نَّسِينَا أَوْ أَخْطَأْنَا ۚ رَبَّنَا وَلَا تَحْمِلْ عَلَيْنَا إِصْرًا كَمَا حَمَلْتَهُ عَلَى الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِنَا ۚ رَبَّنَا وَلَا تُحَمِّلْنَا مَا لَا طَاقَةَ لَنَا بِهِ ۖ وَاعْفُ عَنَّا وَاغْفِرْ لَنَا وَارْحَمْنَا ۚ أَنتَ مَوْلَانَا فَانصُرْنَا عَلَى الْقَوْمِ الْكَافِرِينَ

04. {Soorat-ul-Ghaafir: 1-3}

حم  تَنزِيلُ الْكِتَابِ مِنَ اللَّهِ الْعَزِيزِ الْعَلِيمِ غَافِرِ الذَّنبِ وَقَابِلِ التَّوْبِ شَدِيدِ الْعِقَابِ ذِي الطَّوْلِ ۖ لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ ۖ إِلَيْهِ الْمَصِيرُ

05. {Soorat-ul-Hashr: 23-24}

هُوَ اللَّهُ الَّذِي لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ الْمَلِكُ الْقُدُّوسُ السَّلَامُ الْمُؤْمِنُ الْمُهَيْمِنُ الْعَزِيزُ الْجَبَّارُ الْمُتَكَبِّرُ ۚ سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ عَمَّا يُشْرِكُونَ هُوَ اللَّهُ الْخَالِقُ الْبَارِئُ الْمُصَوِّرُ ۖ لَهُ الْأَسْمَاءُ الْحُسْنَىٰ ۚ يُسَبِّحُ لَهُ مَا فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضِ ۖ وَهُوَ الْعَزِيزُ الْحَكِيمُ

06. Recite Soorat-ul-Ikhlaas & Soorat-ul-Falaq and Soorat-un-Naas

07. أعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللّهِ التَّامَّاتِ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا خَلَقَ

08. بِسْمِ اللّهِ الَّذِي لاَ يَضُرُّ مَعَ اسْمِهِ شَيْئٌ فِي الأرْضِ وَ لاَ فِي السَّمَا ءِ وَ هُوَ السَّمِيعُ العَلِيمُ

09. رَضِيْتُ بِاللّهِ رَبًّا وَ بِالإسْلاَمِ دِيْنًا وَ بِمُحَمَّدٍ نَبِيًّا

10. أصْبَحْنَا وَ أصْبَحَ المُلْكُ لِلّهِ وَ الحَمْدُ لِلّهِ لاَ إلَهَ إلاَّ الّلهُ وَحْدَهُ لاَ شَرِيْكَ لَهُ لَهُ المُلْكُ وَ لَهُ الحَمْدُ وَ هُوَ عَلَى آُلِّ شَيْئٍ قَدِيْرٌ رَبِّ أسْأَلُ كَ خَيْرَ مَا فِي هَذَا اليَوْمِ وَ خَيْرَ مَا بَعْدَهُ وَ أعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا فِي هَذَ ا اليَوْمِ وَ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا بَعْدَهُ رَبِّ أعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الكَسَلِ وَ الهَرَمِ وَ سُو ءِ الكَبِيْرِ وَ أعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ عَذَابٍ فِي النَّارِ وَ عَذَابٍ فِي القَبْرِ

11. اللّهُمَّ بِكَ أصْبَحْنَا وَ بِكَ أمْسَيْنَا وَ بِكَ نَحْيَا وَ بِكَ نَمُوتُ وَ إلَيْ كَ النُّشُورُ

12. اللَّهُمَّ مَا أصْبَحَ بِيِ مِنْ نِعْمَةٍ أوْ بِأحَدٍ مِنْ خَلْقِكَ فَمِنْكَ وَحْدَكَ لاَ شَرِيْكَ لَكَ فَلَكَ الحَمْدُ وَ لَكَ الشُّكْرُ

13. الَّهُمَّ إنِّي أصْبَحْتُ فِي نِعْمَةٍ مِنْكَ وَ عَافِيَة وَ ستر فَأتِم نِعْمَتَكَ عَلَيَّ وَ عَافِيَتُكَ وَ سترك فِي الدُّنْيَا وَ الآخِرَة

14. اللَّهُمَّ إنِّي أعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الهَمِّ وَ الحُزْنِ وَ أعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ العَجْزِ وَ الكَسَلِ وَ أعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الجُبْنِ وَ البُخْلِ وَ أعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ غَلَبَةِ الدَّيْنِ وَ مِنْ قَهْرِ الرِّجَالِ

15. اللّهُمَّ إنِّي أسْأَلُكَ العَافِيَةَ فِي الدُّنْيَا وَ الآخِرَةِ اللّهُمَّ إنِّي أسْأَلُكَ العَفْ وَ وَ العَافِيَةَ فِي دِيْنِي وَ دُنْيَايَ وَ أهْلِي وَ مَالِي اللّهُمَّ اسْتُرْ عَوْرَاتِي وَ آمِنْ رَوْعَاتِي اللّهُمَّ احْفَظْنِي مِنْ بَيْنِ يَدَيَّ وَ مِنْ خَلْفِي وَ عَنْ يَمِيْنِي وَ عَنْ شِمَالِي وَ مِنْ فَوْقِي وَ أعُوذُ بِعَظَمَتِكَ أنْ أُغْتَالَ مِنْ تَحْتِي

16. اللّهُمَّ أنْتَ رَبِّي لاَ إلَهَ إلاَّ أنْتَ خَلَقْتَنِي وَ أنَا عَبْدُكَ وَ أنَا عَلَى عَهْدِ كَ وَ وَعْدِكَ مَا اسْتَطَعْتُ أعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا صَنَعْتُ أبُوءُ لَكَ بِنَعْمَتِ كَ عَلَيَّ وَ أبُوءُ بِذَنْبِي فَاغْفِرْ لِي إنَّهُ لاَ يَغْفِرُ الذُّنُوبَ إلاَّ أنْتَ

17. اللَّهُمَّ فَاطِرَ السَّمَواتِ والأرضِ عَالمَ الغَيْب وَالشَّهَادةِ، ربَّ كُلِّ شَيءٍ وَمَلِيكَهُ. أَشْهَدُ أَن لاَ إِله إِلاَّ أَنتَ، أَعُوذُ بكَ منْ شَرِّ نَفسي وشَرِّ الشَّيْطَانِ وَشِرْكهِ وَ أنْ أقْتَرِفَ عَلَي نَفْسِي سُوءََ أوْ أجُرَّهُ إلَى مُسْلِمِِ

18. اللَّهُمَّ إنِّي أصْبَحْتُ أُشْهِدُكَ وَ أُشْهِدُ حَمْلَةَ عَرْشِكَ وَ مَلاَئِكَتَكَ وَ أنْبِيَاءَكَ وَ جَمِيْعَ خَلْقِكَ بِأنَّكَ أنْتَ اللّهُ لاَ إلَهَ إلاَّ أنْتَ وَ أنَّ مُحَمَّدًً ا عَبْدُكَ وَ رَسُولُكَ

19.  لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَلَهُ الْحَمْدُ وَهُوَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ

20. حَسْبِيَ اللَّهُ لاَ إلَهَ إلاَّ هُوَ عَلَيْهِ تَوَآَّلْتُ وَ هُوَ رَبُّ العَرْشِ العَظِيْمِ

21. حَسْبِيَ اللّهُ وَ آَفَى سَمِعَ اللّهُ لِمَنْ دَعَا لَيْسَ وَرَاءَ اللّهِ مَرْمًى

22. سُبْحَانَ اللّهِ وَ بِحَمْدِهِ

23. أَسْتَغْفِرُ اللّهَ وَ أَتُوبُ إِلَيْهِ

The Rights of Allah’s Messenger sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam – Shaykh ibn al-‘Uthaymin

This right is the greatest right of any of the creation. None of the creation have a right greater than the rights of Allah’s Messenger sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. Allah – the Most High – said:

“Indeed We have sent you as a witness rind a bringer of good-tidings and a warner, in order that mankind may believe in Allah and His Messenger, and that you may assist and honour the Messenger.” [Al-Qur’an 48:89]

Therefore it is obligatory to love the Prophet sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam over and above any of mankind – even above one’s love for himself, his parents and his children. The Prophet sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: “None of you will truly believes until he loves me more then his parents, his children and the whole of mankind.” [1]

And from the rights that are due to the Prophet sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam are: that he should be honoured, loved and respected – but without any ghulu (exaggeration) or any falling short in the matter. Honouring the Prophet sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallamduring his lifetime implied honouring his Sunnah (guidance and example) and his noble character and conduct. As for honouring him after his death, then this implies honouring his Sunnah and the Shari’ah (the Prescribed Laws) that he was sent with. Whosoever reflects upon the lives of the Sahabah (Companions of the Prophet) will come to know how these great and virtuous people established the obligation of honouring the Messenger sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam.

‘Urwah ibn Mas’ud said to the Quraysh: “O my people! I have seen kings. I have seen Caeser, Chouoes and Negus. But by Allah! I have never seen a king whose companions respect and honor him in the way that the Companions of Muhammad honour Muhammad sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. By Allah! When he spits, the spittle would fall into the hands of one of them, who would then rub his face and skin with it; when he orders them with something, they promptly fulfill it; when he performs wudhu’(ablution), they vie with each other for the remains of the water; and when they speak in his presence, they lower their voices and do not look directly at his face, due to their respect and honour for him.” [2]

So this is how the Companions radhiallahu ‘anhum loved and honoured him, for Allah had endowed and blessed the Prophetsallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam with a generous and noble character and a mild and easy-going nature. Had he been harsh and hard-hearted, people would not have been able to gather around him and be with him as they did.

Also from the rights that are due to the Prophet sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam is to believe in all that he informed as of with regards to the accounts of previous people and nations, to do that which he has commanded and leave that which he has prohibited, and to have ‘iman (faith) that his guidance and example is the best and most perfect guidance and example, and that the Shari’ah(Prescribed Laws) that he was sent with is perfect and complete – no human laws nor systems are to be given precedence or priority over his Shari’ah. Allah – the Most High – said:

“But no by your Lord! They will not truly be Believers, until they make the Prophet a judge in all their disputes, and then find in their souls no resistance against his decision, but rather accept it with the utmost submission.” [Al-Qur’an 4:65]

“Say: If you do love Allah then follow the Prophet. Allah will then love you and forgive you your sins. Indeed Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most-Merciful.” [Al-Qur’an 3:31]

And from the rights of the Prophet sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam is to defend his Shari’ah and his guidance with the strength and capacity at one’s disposal, and also in proportion to the attack that it is under. Thus, if the enemies are attacking it with false proofs and doubts, then his guidance and Shari’ah should be defended with sound knowledge which refutes such false arguments and clarifies the doubts. If, however, the attack is made by any other types of weapons, then the defence should be made in a similar manner. It is not possible for any Believer to hear of some attack upon the Prophet’s Shari’ah or his noble personality, and then to keep silent about it – especially when one has the power to counter such on attack.

From Huquq Da’at Ilayh al-Fitrah wa Qarrarath ash-Shari’ah (pp. 6-7).

This translation is from Al-Istiqaamah Magazine, Issue No. 2, Safar 1417H / July 1996.

Does the Shahaadah Comprise the Types of Tawheed? – Shaykh ibn Utahymeen

The Relation of the Shahaadah with the Types of Tawheed

Question 5: But does the Shahaadah Comprise the Types of Tawheed?

The Answer: Indeed it does encompass the types of Tawheed altogether, either by way of inclusion or implication. This is because a persons statement, “I testify that La ilaaha illallaah,” is immediately understood such that the intended meaning is Tawheed al-’Ibaadah (i.e. to single Allaah out with all worship). This type of Tawheed, also called Tawheed al- Uloohiyyah, is inclusive of Tawheed ar-Ruboobiyyah (i.e. to single Allaah out with Creation, Sovereignty and Control of affairs), because everyone who worships Allaah alone, would not worship Him until he firmly attests that ar-Ruboobiyyh is exclusively His.

It also comprises the Tawheed of al-Asmaa’was-Sifaat,[15] because man does not worship except what he knows to be worthy of worship due to the Names and Attributes He has. This is why Ibraaheem said to his father:

O my father! Why do you worship that which hears not, sees not and cannot avail you in anything? [Qur’aan, soorat Maryam (19): 42].

So, the Tawheed of al-’Ibaadah, which is Tawheed al- Uloohiyyah, comprises both Tawheed ar-Ruboobiyyah and that of al-Asmaa’ was-Sifaat.

Footnotes

[15] Tawheed al-Asmaa’ was-Sifaat is to single Allaah out with all of the most beautiful Names and superlative Attributes which He has affirmed for Himself or which His Messenger, Muhammad صلى الله عليه و سلم has affirmed for Him, without Tahreef (changing or distorting the meaning of the Names and Attributes), without Ta’teel (denying or suspending their meanings), without Takyeef (specifying how they are), and without Tamtheel (exemplification). It also involves denying all that which Allaah has denied from Himself.

Translated by Dr Saleh as Saleh rahimahullaah
SourceUnderstanding Worship – Fiqh ul-‘Ibadah – Shaykh ibn Uthaymeen

The Six Conditions Of Adhering To The Guidance Of The Prophet (Shuroot Al-Mutaabi’ah Sittah) – Shaykh Ahmed al-Wasaabee

Translation Of The Text In Al-Qawl-ul-Mufeed Fee Adillatit Tawheed:

Benefit (Faa’idah):

ash-Shaykh al-‘Allaamah al-Faqeeh Muhammad ibn Saalih ibn ‘Uthaymeen (rahimahullaahu ta’aalaa) said:

In his valuable book ((al-Ibdaa’ fee Kamaal ash-Shara’ wa Khatar al-Ibtidaa’)) [Innovations in the Perfect Legislation and the Hazards of Innovations] pages 21 –23:

( … Oh my brother, verily following and adherence does not become a reality until the action is in agreement with six issues:

The First (al-Awwal): as-Sabab (Reason). Like the one who prays two Raka’at for the reason of the descending of the rain (Nuzool al-Matar).

The Second (ath-Thaanee): al-Jins (Type). Like the one who brings his Zakaat al-Fitr in the form of money.

The Third (ath-Thaalith): al-Qadar (Number). Like the one who prays four Raka’at for Maghrib intentionally.

The Fourth (ar-Raabi’): al-Kayfiyyah (How). Like the one who makes Wudoo’ (ablution) and starts with his feet and ends with his face.

The Fifth (al-Khaamis): az-Zamaan (Time). Like the one who performs the ‘Udhiyah (slaughtering) in Ramadhaan.

The Sixth (as-Saadis): al-Makaan (Place). Like the one who makes I’tikaaf in places other than the Masaajid.

Oh my brother: Bite unto the Sunnah of the Messenger ( صلى الله عليه و سلم) with your molar teeth (an- Nawaajidh). And tread the path of as-Salafus-Saalih (the righteous predecessors), and be on what they were upon, and see if this harms you in any way?!). End of his (rahimahullaah) speech with abbreviation (Tasarruf) and summarization (Ikhtisaar).

Explanation Of The Text By Shaykh Ahmed Al-Wasaabee (Hafidhahullaah):

The above six conditions that have been mentioned, they are the conditions for which every action must be in agreement to them. And the examples that ash-Shaykh al-‘Uthaymeen has mentioned for each of the six conditions are the actions that are opposite to and do not satisfy these conditions.

So in regards to the first condition, and it is as-Sabab (reason), then the example mentioned, which is of the one who prays two Raka’at for the descending of the rain, then it has no Daleel (evidence) from the Kitaab or the Sunnah, and the Book and the Sunnah have not legislated and given us permission to pray two Raka’at for the reason of the descending of the rain.

And the second example, of the one who brings his Zakaat al-Fitr in the form of money, then this is in opposition to the Ahaadeeth of the Prophet ( صلى الله عليه و سلم) when he ordered the people that they should bring out their Zakaat at the end of Ramadhaan in the form of foodstuff, such as raisins or dates.

And the third condition, which is al-Qadar (number), and the example mentioned is of the one who prays four Raka’at for Salaatul-Maghrib intentionally, and we know the number legislated for Salaatul-Maghrib is three Raka’at.

And the fourth example is of the person who makes Wudoo’ and starts with his feet first and ends with his face, and this is also in opposition to the Sunnah of the Prophet ( صلى الله عليه و سلم).

So al-‘Allaamah ibn ‘Uthaymeen has mentioned the examples which oppose and go against the Sunnah in these six conditions.

And the sixth condition, which is al-Makaan (place), and the example mentioned is of the one who makes I’tikaaf in places other than the Masjid. So the one who makes I’tikaaf in his house, or in a cave, or in any place other than the Masjid, then his I’tikaaf is not accepted. And the best places to make I’tikaaf are the three Masaajid: Masjid al-Haraam, Masjid an- Nabawee, and Masjid al-Aqsa. And there is a Hadeeth in which we find the wording: ((There is no I’tikaaf except in the three Masaajid)) [Laa I’tikaaf Illaa fil-Masaajid ath-Thalaathah] [1]. And Shaykh Ahmed mentioned that this Hadeeth is weak in its chain, and the meaning of the Hadeeth is that the best and more perfect type of I’tikaaf is in these three Masaajid, even though it is allowable for a person to make I’tikaaf in other than these three Masaajid.

[1] 1 Sa’eed ibn Mansoor said in his Sunan as is stated in al-Muhallaa (5/195, issue: 633): Sufyaan ibn ‘Uyaynah narrated to us from Jaami’ ibn Abee Raashid from Shaqeeq ibn Salamah that he said: “Hudhayfah said to ‘Abdullaah ibn Mas’ood: ‘I have come to know that the Messenger of Allaah ( صلى الله عليه و سلم ) said: ((There is no I’tikaaf except in the three Masaajid)).’”

By Shaykh Ahmed al-Wasaabee
Translated by Shaakir al-Kanadee
Transcribed on Rabee’-ath-Thaanee 20, 1427 / May 18, 2006 by Abu Abdullah.

Source‘al-Qawl-ul- Mufeed Fee Adillatit-Tawhid’ [Beneficial Speech in Establishing the Evidences of Tawhid] – Shaykh Muhammad al-Wasabi

The Meaning of “Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah” – Shaykh ibn Uthaymeen

The Meaning of The Shahaadah: Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah.

Question 13: You explained the meaning of the Shahaadah: La Ilaaha Illallaah. So, what is the meaning of the Shahaadha: Muhammad Rasoolullaah

The Answer: As for the meaning of the testification that Muhammad (صلى الله عليه و سلم) is the Messenger of Allaah [Muhammad Rasoolullaah] then it is the attestation with the tongue and the belief with the heart that Muhammad bin ‘Abdullaah al- Qurashee al-Haashimee is the Messenger of Allaah to all of the creation, to the Jinn and mankind, as stated by Allaah, The Most High:

Verily! I am Allaah’s Messenger to you all. He is the One to whom the Dominion of the heavens and the earth belongs, none has the right to be worshipped but Him; It is He Who gives life and causes death. So believe in Allaah and His Messenger, the Prophet who can neither read nor write, who believes in Allaah and in His Words [this Qur’aan] and follow him so that you may be guided. [Qur’aan, soorat al-A’raaf (7): 158].

He, The Most High, also Said:

(Exalted is) Blessed be He Who sent down the Criterion [of right and wrong, i.e. the Qur’aan] to His slave [Muhammad صلى الله عليه و سلم] that he may be a warner to the ‘Aalameen (mankind and Jinn). [Qur’aan, soorat al-Furqaan (25): 1].

This Shahaadah necessitates that

  • you believe whatever Allaah’s Messenger informed you of;
  • you comply with whatever he commands;
  • you avoid whatever he forbade and prohibited, and that
  • you do not worship Allaah except with that which he prescribed.

It also necessitates that

  • you do not believe that Allaah’s Messenger has any share nor any right in Ar-Ruboobiyyah or in controlling the affairs of the creation, nor any right to be worshipped at all.Rather, he صلى الله عليه و سلم is a slave worshipper, not one to be worshipped; and that he is a Messenger who is not to be belied. 
  • It is not in his power to bring harm or benefit, neither for himself nor for others, except as Allaah Wills.

This is evident in the Saying of Allaah, The Most High:

Say [O Muhammad صلى الله عليه و سلم]: “I do not tell you that with me are the treasures of Allaah, nor that I know of al-Ghayeb (the hidden and unseen); nor I tell you that I am an angel. I but follow what is revealed to me (by inspiration).” [Qur’aan, soorat al-An’aam (6): 50].

He is a slave of Allaah who acts as he is commanded and follows the orders he is given. And Allaah, The Most High, Says:

[Say O Muhammad صلى الله عليه و سلم]: “It is not in my power to cause (bring) you harm or bring (guide) you to the Right Path.” Say: “None can protect me from Allaah’s Punishment [if I were to disobey Him], nor should I find refuge except in Him.” [Qur’aan, soorat al-Jinn (72): 21-22].

Allaah, The Most High, also Says:

Say (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه و سلم): “I possess no power of benefit or hurt to myself except as Allaah Will. And if I had the knowledge of the Ghayeb, I shoud have secured for myself an abundance of wealth, and no evil should have touched me. I am but a warner, and a bringer of glad tidings unto people who believe.” [Qur’aan, soorat al-A’raaf (7): 188].

So, this is the meaning of the testimony of Laa Ilaaha Illalaah, Muhammad Rasoolullaah. From this meaning the person knows that nothing from the creation deserves the right to be worshipped, not the Messenger of Allaah صلى الله عليه و سلم nor anyone from the creation who is below him in rank; and that worship an only be for Allaah, alone; and that the right of Allaah’s Messenger upon us is to give him the rank and standing which Allaah, The Most High, gave to him: The slave of Allaah and His Messenger.

Translated by Dr Saleh as Saleh rahimahullaah
SourceUnderstanding Worship – Fiqh ul-‘Ibadah – Shaykh ibn Uthaymeen

Agreement & Unity Of the Hearts are From The Most Distinguished Qualities Of The Saved Group – Shaykh Uthaymeen

[You may want to read Most Distinguished Qualities of the Saved Group – Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen before reading the below]

Question 55: Is there something you want to add concerning the qualities of the saved sect?

The Answer: The truth of the matter is that there isn’t anything to add, since the four fundamental matters that we have mentioned are clear and sufficient. However, it might need some details with respect to the matter of manners. So, the most important aspect of manners is unity and agreement on the truth, the thing that Allaah (Azza wa Jal) has enjoined on us:

Your Rabb (Allaah) prescribed for Noah, and that which We revealed to you –[O Muhammad (صلى الله عليه و سلم)], and that which He prescribed for Ibraaheem, Moosaa, ‘Eesaa–that you should establish the Religion, acting upon what is prescribed, and not split into sects regarding it. [Qur’aan, soorat ash-Shooraa (42): 13].

And He (Allaah Azza wa Jal) informed us that those who split their Religion into sects, Muhammad (صلى الله عليه و سلم) is clear of them:

Verily, those who divided their religion and break up into sects, you Muhammad (صلى الله عليه و سلم) have no concern of them in the least. [Qur’aan, soorat al-An’aam (6): 159].

So agreement and unity of the hearts are from the most distinguished qualities of the saved group, ahlus-Sunnah wal Jamaa’ah. In case disagreement amongst them occurs due to Ijtihaad,[74] in matters where Ijtihaad is applicable, then they do not hold enmity, hatred or hostility against each other. Rather, they believe that they are brothers even if this kind of disagreement takes place amongst them. This is true to the extent that each of them would pray behind the Imaam believing that the latter is not in a state of Wudoo´ whilst the Imaam believes he does have his Wudoo’. An example for this is that each of them would pray behind someone who ate camel meat believing that it nullifies the prayer whilst this Imaam believes that it does not. Thus each of them consider that the prayer behind this Imaam is correct, even though if he would have prayed the same prayer [after eating camel meat] by himself, he would have consider it incorrect. All of this is because they consider that the difference in opinion arising from Ijtihaad, in cases where Ijtihaad is permissible, is, in reality, not a disagreement. Since each one of the disputants follows what is incumbent upon both for them to follow from the evidence that is impermissible for either one to relinquish. They see that if their brother disagrees with them regarding a certain action and does this in compliance with the evidence, then in reality he is in agreement with them. This is because they themselves call for the following of the proof wherever it may be. So if he disagrees with them based upon his conformance with what he regards as valid proof, then in reality he is in agreement with them, since he is in conformity with that which they call for and aim to, from judging by the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of His Messenger (صلى الله عليه و سلم).

And it is well known to many scholars what took place between the companions with regard to similar matters of disagreement, even during the time of their Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم). He (صلى الله عليه و سلم) did not harshly denounce anyone of them. When he (صلى الله عليه و سلم) returned from the battle of al-Ahzaab, Jibreel came to him and directed him to set out for Banee Quraydhah who broke the covenant with the Muslims. The Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) then ordered his companions and said: “None of you should pray ‘Asr except at Banee Quraydhah.” [75] So, they left Madeenah for Banee Qurayadhah, and when the time for ‘Asr prayer arrived some of them delayed their prayer until they reached Banee Qurayadhah and therefore prayed it outside of its time. They did not pray until after sun set, since the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) said: “None of you should pray ‘Asr except at Banee Quraydhah.” Others prayed on time and said that the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) intention was for them to make haste in setting off. [76]

Those were the ones who were correct in their understanding. In spite of this, the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) did not blame anyone of them, and none of them held any enmity or hatred against each other because of their disagreement in understanding this text. That is why I believe that it is a binding duty upon the Muslims who belong to the Sunnah that they should be one nation, and that factionalism should not occur amongst them–a person belongs to this group and another belongs to another group, and the third belongs to a third group and so on. In such a manner, they fight amongst each other with the spears of their tongues. They hate each other and take enemies out of each other because of a disagreement whose ruling is permissible to deduce by way of Ijtihaad. There is no need for me to specifically mention each group. But the sensible person would understand and the matter would be clear to him. So, I believe that it is incumbent upon ahlus-Sunnah wal Jamaa’ah to unite even though they may dispute in that wherein they have been differing as a result of their understanding of what is necessitated by the texts. All praise is due to Allaah, for this is a matter in which there is ample scope for accommodation.

What is important is agreement and unity of the hearts. And there is no doubt that the enemies of Islaam love that the Muslims are divided, regardless whether they are enemies who openly express their hostility, or enemies who pretend to be friends of Muslims or Islaam, while in reality they are not. So, the obligatory thing is that we should be distinguished with this distinctive mark and that is we are from the saved sect that agrees to unity.

References

[74] Ijtihaad: Deduction of reasoned decisions to suit particular circumstances based upon fundamental guidelines from the Qur’aan and/or authentic Sunnah.
[75] Saheeh al-Bukhaaree, vol.2, p.34, and Saheeh Muslim, vol.3, no.4376. In the report by Muslim, it is Thuhr prayer instead of ‘Asr.
[76] So that when the time for ‘Asr prayer arrived, they would already be at Banee Quraydhah.

Translated by Dr Saleh as Saleh rahimahullaah
SourceUnderstanding Worship – Fiqh ul-‘Ibadah – Shaykh ibn Uthaymeen – Page 145

The Fifteen Aayaat of Prostration in the Qur’an – Shaykh Uthaymeen

Clarifying the Narrations Pertaining to the Prostration Places in the Qur’aan

Terminology:

marfoo’: “raised,” a narration attributed to the Prophet
mawqoof: “stopped,” a narration from a companion.
radiyallaahu ‘anhu (t): may Allaah be pleased with him.
soorat: a chapter of the Qur’aan.
mufassal:  means thelast seventh of the Qur’aan,” and it starts from soorat Qaaf (#50) to the last soorat of An-Naass (#114)

1-al A’raf 7:206

“Surely, those who are with your Lord (angels) are never too proud to perform acts of worship to Him, but they glorify His Praise and prostrate before Him”

The Narration is marfoo’ to Abud Dardaa’ (t) and it is weak, but authentically mawqoof to Ibn ‘Umar and Ibn ‘Abaas (radiyallaahu ‘anhum) as reported by ‘Abdur Razzaaq (i.e. in his musannaf). The scholars unanimously agreed to prostrate in this place as reported by Ibn Katheer in his Tafseer.

2-ar Ra’d 13:15

“And unto Allaah (Alone) falls in prostration whoever is in the heavens and the earth, willingly or unwillingly, and so do their shadows in the mornings and in the afternoons”

An authentic mawqoof report from Ibn ‘Umar and Ibn ‘Abbaas (radiyallaahu ‘anhum). Reported by ‘Abdur Razzaaq (i.e. in his musannaf).

3-an Nahl 16:49

“And to Allaah prostate all that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth, of the live moving creatures and the angels, and they are not proud [i.e. they worship their Lord with humility]”

An authentic mawqoof report from ‘Umar Ibn al-Khattaab (t) in al-Bukhaari.  ‘Umar (t) recited soorat an-Nahl on a Friday on the pulpit and when reached the verse of the sajdah he got down from the pulpit and prostrated and the people also prostrated. The next Friday ‘Umar did recite the same soorat and when he reached the verse of sajdah he said: O people! When we recite the verses of sajdah whoever prostrates does the right thing, yet it is no sin for the one who does not prostrate. Also it is an authentic mawqoof report in ‘Abdur Razzaaq’s (musannaf) from Ibn ‘Umar and Ibn ‘Abbaas (radiyallaahu ‘anhum).

4- al Israa 17:109

“And they fall down on their faces weeping and it adds to their humility”

An authentic mawqoof report from Ibn ‘Umar and Ibn ‘Abbaas (radiyallaahu ‘anhum). Reported by ‘Abdur Razzaaq (i.e. in his musannaf).

5- Maryam 19:58
“… When the Verses of the Most Beneficent were recited unto them, they fell down prostrating and weeping.”

An authentic mawqoof report from Ibn ‘Umar and Ibn ‘Abbaas (radiyallaahu ‘anhum). Reported by ‘Abdur Razzaaq. Ibn Katheer reported the unanimous agreement to prostrate in this place.

6- 7-al Hajj 22:18

“See you not that to Allaah prostrates whoever is in the heavens and whoever is on the earth, and the sun, and the moon, and the stars, and the mountains, and the trees, and Ad-Dawab (moving living creatures, beasts, etc.), and many of mankind?”

al Hajj 22:77
“O you who believe! Bow down, and prostrate yourselves, and worship your Lord and do good that you may be successful”

The hadeeth on the first prostration is an authentic mawqoof report from Ibn ‘Umar and Ibn ‘Abbaas (radiyallaahu ‘anhum). Reported by ‘Abdur Razzaaq. And the narration on both prostrations is a mawqoof report from ‘Amr Ibn al-‘Aaas but there is weakness therein. However, there is a supporting report to it from ‘Uqbah bin ‘Aamir and Khaalid bin Ma’daan. It is authentically mawqoof from ‘Umar and his son ‘Abdullaah, Abud Dardaa’, and Abu Musa al-Ash’aree (radiyallaahu ‘anhum). Ishaaq said: For seventy years I have seen people prostrating the two prostrations in soorat al-Hajj.

8- al Furqan 25:60
“And when it is said to them: “Prostrate to the Most Beneficent (Allaah)! They say: “And what is the Most Beneficent? Shall we fall down in prostration to that which you command us?” And it increases in them only aversion”

Its is an authentic mawqoof report from Ibn ‘Umar and Ibn ‘Abbaas (radiyallaahu ‘anhum). Reported by ‘Abdur Razzaaq (i.e. in his musannaf).

9- an Naml 27:25
“Allaah, laa ilaaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He), the Lord of the Supreme Throne!”

An authentic mawqoof report from Ibn ‘Umar and Ibn ‘Abbaas (radiyallaahu ‘anhum). Reported by ‘Abdur Razzaaq.

10- as Sajdah 32:15
“Only those believe in Our Ayat, who, when they are reminded of them fall down prostrate, and glorify the Praises of their Lord, and they are not proud.”

Its narration is an authentic mawqoof report from Ibn ‘Umar and Ibn ‘Abbaas (radiyallaahu ‘anhum). Reported by ‘Abdur Razzaaq (i.e. in his musannaf). And from Abu Hurairah (t) that the Prophet (r) used to recite soorat Alif Laam Meem as-Sajdah (chapter 32) in the Fajr prayer (authentic, in al-Bukhaari). Al-Haafidh Ibn Hajar said in al-Fath (i.e. Fathul Baari). I did not see in the transmissions an explicit statement that he (r) prostrated except in the Book of Sharee’ah, then he (al-Haafidh) mentioned the narration and said: And in its isnaad (transmission) there is some whose condition (of reliability) require (careful) study. Then he said: And At-Tabaraani has, in his sagheer,  a narration that is marfoo’ to ‘Ali (t). There is, however, weakness in its chain of transmission (isnaad). [End of al-Haafidh’s statements].

11- Saad 38:24
“… And Dawud guessed that We have tried him and he sought Forgiveness of his Lord, and he fell down prostrate and turned (to Allaah) in repentance”

Its hadeeth is authentically marfoo’ in al-Bukhaari.

12- Fussilat 41:38
“But if they are too proud (to do so), then there are those who are with your Lord (angels) glorify Him night and day, and never are they tired.”

Its is an authentic mawqoof report from Ibn ‘Umar and Ibn ‘Abbaas (radiyallaahu ‘anhum). Reported by ‘Abdur Razzaaq (i.e. in his musannaf).

13- an Najm 53:62
“So fall you down in prostration to Allaah, and worship Him (Alone)”

Its hadeeth is authentically marfoo’ in al-Bukhaari.

14- Inshiqaq 84:21
“And when the Qur’an is recited to them, they fall not prostrate,”

Its hadeeth is authentically marfoo’ in Muslim

15- al ‘Alaq 96:19
” … Fall prostrate and draw near to Allaah!”

Its hadeeth is authentically marfoo’ in al-Bukhaari

Point of Benefit: Al-Muwafaq (Ibn Qudaamah Al-Maqdisee) in al-Kaafi (v.1, p. 206) said that, “the places of the verses of prostrations are unanimously affirmed except those of the mufassal and the second sajdah in soorat al-Hajj.” The evidences for those prostrations, however, are as mentioned (above).

Completed by the pen of Muhammad bin Saalih al-‘Uthaimeen on 3/8/1404  (corresponding to: 4/5/1984).
Rendered into English by Saleh As-Saleh, may Allaah forgive me, my parents, my shayekh, and all Muslims. 

Friday, 16th of Rabee’ al-Awwal 1427 AH, corresponding to April 14, 2006

Posted from http://understand-islam.net

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The Correct Tawassul (Means of nearness to Allaah) and its Types – Shaykh ibn Uthaymeen

Question 56: What is the correct and false Tawassul ?

The Answer: At-Tawassul is the infinitive of Tawassala, Yatawassal–meaning to take a means that will make the person reach his intended goal. So, its original meaning is: Seeking to attain the intended objective.

And it is divided into two types:

Correct: And this is the Tawassul through the correct means leading to the intended goal.

Incorrect: And this is the Tawassul by a way that does not lead to the intended objective.

With regard to the first type, and which is the Tawassul by the means that lead to the intended objective, then it is of several types, including:

1-Tawassul (seeking a means of nearness to Allaah) by means of His Attributes, regardless whether it is done in the general or specific sense.

An example on the general way is the statements mentioned in the hadeeth reported by ‘Abdullaah bin Mas’oud (radhi Allaahu anhu) concerning the invocation said to relief from distress and grief:

“O Allaah! I am Your slave, son of Your male slave and female slave. My forelock is in Your Hand. Your judgment concerning me is continuously executed. Your Decree over me is Just. I ask You by every Name which is Yours, with which You Named Yourself, Taught to anyone from Your Creation, or sent down in Your Book, or which You kept to Your Self in the Knowledge of the Hidden with You, that You make the Qur’aan the nurturer (the life of) of my heart, the light of my chest, the removal of my sadness and of my anxiety.” [77]

This case is a Tawassul by means of Allaah’s Names in the general sense, as in his (صلى الله عليه و سلم) saying: “I ask You by every Name which is Yours, with which You Named Yourself.”

With regard to the specific aspect, then it is to make Tawassul by means of one particular Name for a specific request befitting this Name, like what was reported in the hadeeth of Abu Bakr (radhi Allaahu anhu) when he asked the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) to inform him of a supplication that he may use in his prayer. So the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) said:

“Say: O Allaah, I have done great injustice to myself, and none can forgive sin except You, so forgive me a forgiveness from You, and be merciful to me, as You are The Most Forgiving, The Most Merciful” [78]

So he sought Forgiveness and Mercy and made Tawasssul to Allaah, The Most High, by means of two of His Names befitting what is being requested. So he said: “You are The Most-Forgiving, The Most-Merciful.” This type of Tawassul falls under the Saying of The Most High:

“And (all) the Most Beautiful Names belong to Allaah, so call on Him by them”. [Qur’aan, soorat al-A’raaf (7): 180].

Supplication here comprises two types: Supplication when a request is made (du’aaul mas’alah), and invocation through worship (du’aaul ‘Ibaadah).

With regards to the Tawassul to Allaah by means of His Attributes, then it is like the Tawssul by means of His Names in the sense that it could be general and specific. As to the general way, then it is like your saying: “O Allaah, I ask you by Your Beautiful Names and Most Supreme Attributes,” then you mention your request. And with respect to the specific way, then it is to perform Tawassul to Allaah, The Most High, by means of a particular Attribute that is specifically related to a particular request, like that which was mentioned in the hadeeth:

“O Allaah by Your Knowledge of the Hidden and Unseen, and Your Power over the Creation, grant me life for as long as You Know that life is good for me, and grant me death when death is good for me.” [79]

Here Tawassul to Allaah, The Most High, is by means of the Attributes of ‘Ilm (Knowledge), and Qudrah (Power): “By Your Knowledge of the Hidden and Unseen, and Your Power over the Creation.” …This comprises the one type of Tawassul.

The Second Type: A person seeks means of Nearness to Allaah by means of His belief in Him and in His Messenger.

So, he says: “O Allaah I have believed in You and in Your Messenger, so forgive me, or grant me success and rectitude.” Or that he says: “O Allaah by my faith in You and in Your Messenger I ask you such and such.”

And from this is the Saying of Allaah:

“Verily! In the Creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the alteration of night and day, there are indeed signs for men of understanding. Those who remember Allaah [always, and in prayers] standing, sitting, and lying down”…to His saying: “Our Rabb! Verily, we have heard the call of one (Muhammad صلى الله عليه و سلم) calling to Faith saying: ‘Believe in your Rabb,’ and we have believed. Our Rabb! Forgive us our sins and expiate from us our evil deeds, and make us die [in the state of righteousness] along with the Abraar” [the pious and righteous believers].” [Qur’aan, soorat aal- ‘Imraan (3): 190-191].

So they sought nearness to Allaah by their Eemaan in Him that He Forgive them their sins, expiate from them their evil deeds, and make them die along with the Abraar.

The Third Type is to make Tawassul to Allaah by means of righteous deeds.

And from this is the story of the three people who entered into a cave to sleep in it. They were trapped in the cave when a boulder [rolled down from the mountain] and blocked the entrance of the cave and they could not remove it away. So each one of them sought a means of nearness (Tawassul) to Allaah by means of a righteous deed that he had done. So the first one of them used his kindness to his parents as Tawassul, and the second used as Tawassul his perfect abstention from fornicating [with his uncle’s daughter]. As to the third one, he used as Tawassul his preserving the right of his employee. Each one of them said: “O Allaah if I did that seeking Your Face, then release us from our situation.” So the rock moved. This is Tawassul to Allaah (Azza wa Jal) by means of a righteous deed.

The Fourth Type is to use as Tawassul the conditions of a person, meaning that the supplicant seeks a means of nearness to Allaah by mentioning his circumstances and his state of need. And From this is the saying of Moosaa (alaihis salam):

“O My Rabb! I am in need of whatever good that You bestow on me.” [Qur’aan, soorat al-Qasas (28): 24].

In doing so, he is using Tawassul to Allaah by mentioning his condition, asking Allaah to bestow whatever good on him. A related case is in the saying of Zakhariyyaah (alaihis salam):

“My Rabb! My bones have grown feeble, and grey hair has spread on my head.” [Qur’aan, soorat Maryam (19): 4].

So these are some of the types of Tawassul, and all of them are allowed since they are good means to use as Tawassul to attain what is being intended.

A Fifth Kind of Tawassul

Question 57: Are there any other types of Tawassul in addition to the four that you have mentioned?

The Answer: Yes, there is an additional type of Tawassul and it is the seeking of nearness to Allaah by means of the supplication of a righteous man and whom it is hoped that his invocation will be answered, because the companions (radhi Allaahu anhum) used to ask the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) to invoke Allaah for them, generally and specifically.

Indeed it is reported in the saheehayen (al-Bukhaaree and Muslim collections of hadeeth) from the transmission of Anas bin Maalik ((radhi Allaahu anhu)) that a man entered the Mosque on the day of Jumu’ah and the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) was giving the Khutbah and said: “O Messenger of Allaah, the livestock are dying and the roads are cut off so supplicate to Allaah for us that He should give us rain.” So the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) raised up his hands and supplicated and said: ‘O Allaah bless us with rain,’-three times…and he did not descend from the minbar (pulpit) until the rain was dripping from his beard. The rain continued for a whole week. And on the next day of Juma’ah the same man or someone else came while the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) was standing giving Khutbah…and said: ‘Buildings are being destroyed and livestock are being drowned, so supplicate to Allaah to withhold it for us.’ So the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) raised his hands and said: ‘O Allaah, around us and not upon us…’ so he did not point with his hands in any direction except that the clouds cleared away…and we went out walking in sunshine.” [80]

And there are several incidences on which the companions asked the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) to supplicate to Allaah specifically for them. And from this is the case when the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) mentioned that seventy thousand of his Ummah shall enter Paradise without reckoning nor punishment, and that they are those who do not treat themselves with Ruqya,[81] nor do they believe in good or bad omen nor do they get themselves branded (cauterized), but the put their trust in Allaah; thereupon ‘Ukaashah bin Muhsin stood up and said: “O Messenger of Allaah, supplicate to Allaah to make me from amongst them.” So he (صلى الله عليه و سلم) said: “You are one of them.” [82]

This is also from the kind of permissible Tawassul: that a person asks someone to supplicate to Allaah, The Most High, for him, if it is hoped for that this person’s supplication will be answered. However, it should be that the person requesting someone to supplicate Allaah for him intends to benefit himself and his brother, the one from whom he asked the supplication, so that the request is not solely for his own interest. Since if you want to benefit your friend as well as yourself, then this will end up as something good for him. This is because when a man supplicates to Allaah for his brother in his absence, the angel says: “Aameen, and for you the same.” Similarly when someone supplicates Allaah for his brother, then he is from those who do good by virtue of this supplication, and Allaah loves those who do good.”

References

[77] Reported by Ahmad (1/391) and the wording is his, and al-Haakim (1/509) and others and its isnaad is saheeh as in as-Saheehah (no.199).
[78] Reported by al-Bukhaaree and Muslim. See Saheeh al-Bukhaaree, vol.8, no.338.
[79] Reported by al-Bukhaaree and Muslim. See Saheeh al-Bukhaaree, vol.7, no.575.
[80] Reported by al-Bukhaaree and Muslim. See Saheeh al-Bukhaaree, vol.2, no.55, nos.126-132, no.34, vol.4, no.782, and vol.8, no.115.
[81] Ruqya: Recitation of Qur’anic texts on an ill or charmed person as a treatment from disease.

SourceFiqhul ‘Ibaadaat – Understanding Worship, By Sh. Muhammad bin Saalih Al-‘Uthaimeen (rahimahullah), Translated by Saleh as Saleh (rahimahullaah)

The Creed of the Salaf (Righteous Predecessors) regarding the Noble Qur’aan – Shaykh ibn Uthaymeen

Bismillaah

Question 60:

What is the creed of the Righteous Predecessors regarding the Noble Qur’aan?

The Answer:

The creed of the as-Salaf pertaining to the Noble Qur’aan is like their creed with regard to the rest of the Attributes and Names of Allaah, and it is based upon what is proven by the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of His Messenger (صلى الله عليه و سلم). And we all know that Allaah, The One free of all imperfection, The Most High, described the Qur’aan as being His Words, and that it is sent down from Him. So, He, Most Magnificent and Most High, Says:

وَإِنْ أَحَدٌ مِّنَ الْمُشْرِكِينَ اسْتَجَارَكَ فَأَجِرْهُ حَتَّىٰ يَسْمَعَ كَلَامَ اللَّهِ ثُمَّ أَبْلِغْهُ مَأْمَنَهُ

“And if anyone of the Mushriks seeks your protection, then grant him protection so that they may hear the Word of Allaah [the Qur’aan], and then escort him to where he can be secure” [Qur’aan, soorat at-Tawbah (9): 6].

And the intended by the “Word of Allaah” here, without any doubt, is the Noble Qur’aan. And furthermore, He, the Most High, Says:

إِنَّ هَٰذَا الْقُرْآنَ يَقُصُّ عَلَىٰ بَنِي إِسْرَائِيلَ أَكْثَرَ الَّذِي هُمْ فِيهِ يَخْتَلِفُونَ

“Verily, this Qur’aan narrates to the Children of Israel most of that in which they differ” [Qur’aan, soorat an-Naml (27): 76].

So, the Qur’aan is the Word of Allaah, The Most High, letter and meaning. He really Spoke it and bestowed it upon Jibreel, the trustworthy, who then brought it down upon the heart of Muhammad (صلى الله عليه و سلم) so that he may be one of those who warn, in the plain Arabic language.

The Salaf also believe that the Qur’aan is a Revelation, brought down by Allaah (عزّ وجلّ) upon Muhammad (صلى الله عليه و سلم) in parts over a period of twenty three years as necessitated by Allaah’s Wisdom. In addition, its revelation is either original or occasional, meaning that some of it is brought down in response to a certain occasion that necessitated its revelation, and some of it is revealed without being due to a certain reason. Also some of it is revealed as a narration of a past condition that occurred to the Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) and his companions, whilst some of it comes down as original legislations, revealed for the first time. This is according to what has been mentioned by the people of knowledge pertaining to this matter.

Furthermore, the Salaf say: The Qur’aan is in the beginning from Allaah (عزّ وجلّ), and to Him it shall return at the end of time.” This constitutes the saying of the Salaf regarding the Noble Qur’aan.

And it is something well known to us all that Allaah, The Most High, described the Qur’aan with great qualities. He described it as hakeem (wise), kareem (an honourable reciter: Noble), ‘atheem (great), and majeed (glorious). And these qualities with which Allaah has described His Words applies to the one who holds to this Book and works according to it openly and inwardly. So Allaah, The Most High, grants him from the glory, greatness, wisdom, might, and authority, something that it would not be given to the one who does not cling to the Book of Allaah (عزّ وجلّ). That is why I call upon, from this pulpit, all of the Muslims, rulers and ruled, scholars and common people, to cling hold to the Book of Allaah (عزّ وجلّ), openly and inwardly, so that they attain the might, happiness, glory, and prevalence in the East and West.

SourceFiqhul ‘Ibaadaat – Understanding Worship, By Shaykh Muhammad bin Saalih Al-‘Uthaimeen (rahimahullah), Translated by Dr. Saleh as Saleh (rahimahullaah)