Permanent Committee – Page 4

Buying goods using debit cards : The Permanent Committee

by AbdurRahman.orgJanuary 27, 2014March 17, 2015

Question:

I hope your excellencies can advise us about using Saudi Net (debit) cards when buying items from stores in the following manner: When the total sale price is agreed upon, for example SR150 (riyals), the card is presented to the salesman who passes (“swipes”) it through a machine he has in the store. The (total) value of the transaction is then debited instantly by transferring the amount from the buyer’s account to the vendor’s account in the same instant, i.e. before the buyer leaves the store.

Response:

If the matter is as you describe, then there is no harm in using the mentioned card, so long as the buyer has sufficient funds in his account to cover the required amount (of the sale).

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

The Permanent Committee for Islaamic Research and Fataawa, comprising –
Head: Shaykh ‘Abdul ‘Azeez Ibn Abdullaah Ibn Baaz;
Member: Shaykh ‘Abdul-‘Azeez Aal ash-Shaykh;
Member: Shaykh Saalih Ibn Fowzaan;
Member: Shaykh Bakar Ibn ‘Abdullaah Abu Zayd
Fataawa al-Lajnah ad-Daa.imah lil-Buhooth al-‘Ilmiyyah wal-Iftaa., – Volume 13, Page 527, Fatwa No.18521

Ruling on performing Umrah before Obligatory Hajj – Permanent Committee

by AbdurRahman.orgJanuary 22, 2014March 17, 2015

Fatawa from Permanent Committee

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

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

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

Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’
Source:http://www.alifta.com/

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

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

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

Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’

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

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

by AbdurRahman.orgJanuary 21, 2014January 23, 2015

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

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

May Allah grant us success! May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions!
Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’
Deputy Chairman Chairman
`Abdul-Razzaq `Afify `Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz
Source : alifta.net

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eclipse Prayer can be done individually or in congregation

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

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

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

Related Links:

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

Istikharah : Prayer For Seeking Guidance – Permanent Committee

by AbdurRahman.orgJanuary 18, 2014April 16, 2015

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

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

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

Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’

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

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

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

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

Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’

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

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

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

Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’

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

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

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

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

Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’

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

Fatwa : Athaan ( The Call to Prayer)

by AbdurRahman.orgJanuary 18, 2014January 23, 2015

All the Fatawa below are from Permanent Committee and are in PDF format

Adhan and Iqamah

Fatawa : Duha Prayer – Permanent Committee

by AbdurRahman.orgJanuary 18, 2014January 24, 2015

Fatawa – Duha Prayer

Source : alifta.net Permanent Committee Fatwas

Ruling on Salat-ul-Duha and the number of its Rak`ahs

Q 9: Is it permissible to offer Salat-ul-Duha (supererogatory Prayer after sunrise) in four or six Rak`ahs (units of Prayer) with one Taslim (salutation of peace ending the Prayer)?

A: salat-ul-Duha is an act of Sunnah (reported from the Prophet) and its minimum is two Rak`ahs and it has no maximum limit. However, it is preferable not to exceed eight Rak`ahs and to say Taslim after each pair of Rak`ahs. Furthermore, they should not be combined with one Taslim at the end, for the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: The (optional) Salah (Prayer) by night and day should consist of pairs of Rak`ahs.

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

Salah of Al-Awwabin

Q 2: is there a Salah (Prayer) called the Salah of the penitent, and when is it offered?

A: This was reported regarding Salat-ul-Duha (supererogatory Prayer after sunrise). Zayd ibn Arqam (may Allah be pleased with him) said that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) stated, The Salah of those who are penitent is offered when your Fisal (weaned camels) feel the heat of the sun. Related by Muslim.

This means at the time when the young camels’ hoofs are burnt by the sun.

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

Waiting in the Masjid until the sun rises and then offering Salat-ul-Duha

Q2: A man sits in the mosque reading the Qur’an after praying Al-Fajr Salah (Dawn Prayer) until sunrise, then he prays two Rak`ahs. However, some people denied his deed and said: It is impermissible, because it is the tradition of the worshippers of the Sun. Please, advise! Mat Allah reward you!

Answer2: Whoever sits in the mosque reading the Qur’an and reciting the formulas of Adhkar (invocations and Remembrances said at certain times on a regular basis) after praying Al-Fajr Salah (Dawn Prayer) until sunrise is clear and the time when Salah is forbidden is over and prays two Rak`ahs or what he could, he indeed does a good and great deed. His act agrees with the Sunnah and is rewarded, God willing. In support of this, it is reported on the authority of Anas Ibn Malik: ()may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah said: ‘Whoever prays the morning prayer in congregation then sits remembering Allah until the sun rises, then prays two units of prayer has the reward like that of Hajj and `Umrah.'” rt No : 6,Page No:147)

The Messenger of Allah (May Allah’s Peace and Blessings be upon him) said: ‘Completely, completely, completely’ Recorded by Al-Tirmidhy who said: It is Hadith Hasan Gharib (a good Hadith that is strange to come from this chain of narration) from Sahl Ibn Mu`adh from his father (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah (May Allah’s Peace and Blessings be upon him) said: “If anyone sits in his place of prayer when he finishes the dawn prayer till he prays the two Rak’ahs of the forenoon, saying nothing but what is good, his sins will be forgiven even if they are more than the foam of the sea”. Recorded by Al-Imam Ahmad and Abu Dawud. According to another narration: His would be Paradise The same narration is recorded by Al-Bayhaqy but he added in the end of the report: “Hellfire will never touch his skin.” The report has many supporting tarditions that back its authority and is also strengthened with the report of Jabir Ibn Samurah (may Allah be pleased with him) that The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to sit crossed legged after the Fajr (dawn) Prayer in the same place in which he had prayed till the sunrise is complete. Recorded by Imam Muslim in his Sahih (authentic) Collection of Hadith, Abu Dawud, Al-Tirmidhy, and Al-Nasa`y. The denial expressed by some people aginst his man is baseless denial and only ignorant people may deny this act.( Part No : 6,Page No:148)

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

The best time for offering Salat-ul-Duha

Q 1: It is narrated in a Hadith from the Prophet (peace be upon him) that he said: Whoever prays the congregational Salah ‘Prayer’ of Fajr ‘Dawn’, then sits ‘in the Masjid [mosque]’ doing Dhikr ‘Remembrance of Allah’ until sunrise, then prays two Rak`ahs ‘units of prayer’, receives a complete reward of Hajj and `Umrah ‘lesser pilgrimage’. My question here is whether these two Rak`ahs are considered a part of Salat-ul-Duha (supererogatory Prayer after sunrise) which is to be performed in eight Rak`ahs, or are they another independent Nafilah (supererogatory) Prayer?

A: The two Rak`ahs which are mentioned in this Hadith are considered a part of Salat-ul-Duha though they have special merit due to being linked to sitting in the Masjid until sunrise. on the other hand, the best time for offering Salat-ul-Duha is when it becomes very hot in the forenoon.

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

Should someone who offers Salah then returns home and offers Salat-ul-Duha there take the reward of a person who sits in the Masjid?

Q: I usually offer Fajr (Dawn) Prayer in the Masjid (mosque) and after that I go ( Part No : 6,Page No:149)home and engage myself in reciting the Qur’an until the shade of sun is as the length of two spears. Then I perform ten Rak`ahs with the intention of Salat-ul-Duha (supererogatory Prayer after sunrise). This is my habit everyday, Praise be to Allah. But one of my colleagues, may Allah reward him, brought my attention to the following: The meaning of the Hadith which reads: He used to sit in his praying place until the sun had risen Therefore, I ask Your Eminence: Shall I have the reward in this condition or should I sit in the Masjid? Could you kindly advise? May Allah reward you! As-salamu `alaykum warahmatullah wabarakatuh (May Allah’s Peace, Mercy, and Blessings be upon you!)

A: Your recitation of the Qur’an and offering Salat-ul-Dhuha after the time of prohibition are good but what was reported from the Prophet (peace be upon him) is that he used to sit in the Masjid after Fajr (Dawn) Prayer. Imam Muslim related in his Sahih on the authority of Jabir ibn Hamzah (may Allah be pleased with him) that: Whenever the Prophet of Allah (peace be upon him) observed the Fajr (Dawn) Prayer, he used to set at the place of worship till the sun had risen enough. This action is considered as extension to Salah because of what was authentically reported on the authority of Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger (peace be upon him) said: The angels ask for blessings on each one of you as long as he is in the place where he has prayed and has not discharged anything. They say: O Allah, forgive him and have mercy on him. ( Part No : 6,Page No:150)

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

Whether someone who leaves the Masjid after the Fajr Prayer to perform Wudu’ again then returns to it should take the reward of a person sitting in the Masjid

Q 2: If a person stays in the Masjid (mosque) to remember Allah after performing Fajr (Dawn) Prayer, then enters the state of minor impurity and goes to perform ablution, does his leaving the Masjid deprive him of the reward of doing Hajj and `Umrah (lesser pilgrimage) if he returns to the Masjid then offers Salat-ul-Duha (supererogatory Prayer after sunrise) as mentioned in the Hadith?

A: If the person who sits in the Masjid after offering Fajr Prayer to make remembrance of Allah till sunrise enters the state of minor ritual impurity, then leaves the Masjid to perform ablution, returns soon to the Masjid without staying long outside the Masjid, then offers two Rak`ahs after sunrise, his leaving the Masjid does not deprive him of the great reward of offering this act of worship, that is, making perfect Hajj and `Umrah and entering Paradise, Allah Willing. The Hadith that indicates this is reported by Anas ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) that Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said: Whoever offers Fajr (Dawn) Prayer in congregation then sits for the remembrance of Allah till sunrise, then offers two Rak`ahs (units of Prayer), will have the reward of making perfect Hajj and `Umrah)

he added that Allah’s Messenger repeated the word ‘perfect’ thrice. Related by Al-Tirmidhy in (Al-Jame`) and he said, ‘This is a Hadith Hasan Gharib (a good Hadith that is strange to come from this chain of narration)’. Al-Tabarany related a similar narration with a good Isnad (chain of narrators)

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

Salat-ul-Duha for the traveler

Q 2: Is it permissible for me to offer Salat-ul-Duha (supererogatory Prayer after sunrise) even if I traveled to one of the Arab countries and stayed there for a while?

A: It is Mustahab (desirable) to offer salat-ul-Duha, whether you are a traveler or not, at least two Rak`ahs. It is to be offered from after the sun rises, until it reaches the middle of the sky.

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

Whether a traveler is obligated to offer Salat-ul-Duha

Q 4: is it permissible for a traveler not to perform Salat-ul-Duha (supererogatory Prayer after sunrise) like other Nawafil (supererogatory prayers), or should it be performed while on a journey? Should one recite the Qur’an in Salat-ul-Duha audibly or inaudibly? How many Rak`ahs should be offered, and what is the best time for performing it?

A: Salat-ul-Duha is a recommended not obligatory Salah, and it is not a Sunnah Ratibah (supererogatory Prayer performed on a regular basis). It is recommended in many authentic Hadiths reported from the Prophet( Part No : 6,Page No:152)

(peace be upon him), but it was not established that he (peace be upon him) offered it on a continuous basis. It was authentically reported that Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) offered four Rak`ahs in the Duha prayer and might add to them whatever Allah willed. Narrated by Muslim on the authority of `Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her). The word “offered” does not indicate that the Prophet continuously performed Salat-ul-Duha based on what she (may Allah be pleased with her) said when she was asked if the Prophet (peace be upon him) used to observe Duha (Salat-ul-Duha) prayer. She said, “No, only when he came back from travel. Related by Muslim. The linguistic meaning of the word “offered” does not indicate constancy. However, this does not contradict her (may Allah be pleased with her) saying: I have never seen the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) offering the supererogatory Duha prayer, but I offer it. Narrated by Al-Bukhari and Muslim. In fact, she (may Allah be pleased with her) negated seeing Allah’s Messenger offering Duha, and performed Duha on the basis of what she knew of the reward of Duha and the act of the Prophet (peace be upon him). As a result, the wordings narrated on her authority are consistent. As for the number of Rak`ahs of Duha Prayer, it is from two to eight Rak`ahs. Also, it is not preferable to recite the Qur’an audibly while offering Duha. Concerning the time for offering Duha, there is a Hadith narrated by Zayd ibn Arqam (may Allah be pleased with him) that ( Part No : 6,Page No:153)

Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said: The Salah (prayer) of those who are penitent is offered when the weaned camels feel the heat of the sun. Related by Muslim. The Hadith means the time when the hoofs of young camels are harmed by the scorching heat caused by the intense rays of the sun on the sand. It is reported in the Two Sahihs (Al-Bukhari and Muslim’s Books of Authentic Hadith) that the Prophet (peace be upon him) recommended Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) to observe the two Rak`ahs of Duha. As for the virtue of Duha Prayer, it is narrated in Sahih Muslim that the Prophet (peace be upon him) advised Abu Ad-Darda’ (may Allah be pleased with him) to offer it, as well as Muslim’s narration on the authority of Abu Dharr (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Each morning, there is a charity due from every bone in the body of every one of you. Each utterance of Allah’s glorification (i.e. Subhana Allah) is an act of charity, every utterance of praise (i.e. Al-hamdu-lillah) is an act of charity, every utterance of affirmation of His Oneness (i.e. La Ilaha Illa Allah) is an act of charity, every utterance of affirmation of His Greatness (i.e. Allahu Akbar) is an act of charity, and enjoining right and forbidding evil is an act of charity. It suffices for all of this to offer two Rak`ahs of Duha.

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

Salah of Al-Awwabin

Q 5: Is there a two-Rak‘ahs Salah (two-unit-Prayer) called the Salah of Al-Awwabin (Prayer of the Oft-Repentant) that is performed after the supererogatory Salah for the Maghrib (Sunset) Prayer? Surahs Al-Fatihah and Al-Zalzalah are recited in each Rak‘ah (unit of Prayer) 15 times and those who perform it regularly are recorded among Al-Awwabin (the oft-repentant). May Allah grant you a long life!

A: salah of Al-Awwabin is Salat-ul-Duha (supererogatory Prayer after sunrise), which is performed (at the time of the day) when the sun’s heat becomes intense. It was authentically reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The Salah of Al-Awwabin is when the feet of young camels are scalded (by the heat of sand).” It signifies the time when the sand heated by the sun becomes unbearably hot for the feet of young camels. As for offering Salah after the supererogatory Salah for the Maghrib Prayer in which Surahs Al-Fatihah and Al-Zalzalah are recited 15 times, we know of no basis for this.

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

Salah of Al-Awwabin

Q: We heard that after the Maghrib (Sunset) Prayer, there is a two-Rak`ah (units of Prayer) Salah offered called “Salah of the penitent”. Is it a Sunnah (supererogatory act of worship following the example of the Prophet)? How is it offered?

A: the Sunnah Ratibah (supererogatory Prayer performed on a regular basis) offered after the Maghrib Prayer is two Rak`ahs, and then a person may offer any number of Rak`ahs they like. As for the two-Rak`ah Salah called “Salah of the penitent”, it is groundless.

it rather refers to Salat-ul-Duha (supererogatory Prayer after sunrise) which is offered when it becomes too hot, according to the saying of the Prophet (peace be upon him), The Salah of the penitent is offered when your Fisal (weaned camels) feel the heat of the sun. Related by Muslim in his Sahih (authentic) Book of Hadith.

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

The ruling concerning the Braylwiyyah : The Permanent Committee

by AbdurRahman.orgJanuary 15, 2014March 17, 2015

Question:

There is a particular group in Pakistan called the ((Braylwiyyah)) or ((Jamaa’ah Nuwaaree)) which is a reference to their current leader known as ((Nuwaaree)). I ask your excellencies the Sharee’ah ruling regarding them and their ‘aqeedah, and the prayer behind them as this is a contentious issue which many people are unaware of the reality. I will mention some of their defective ways and beliefs:

1) The belief that the Messenger of Allaah (sal-Allaahu `alayhe wa sallam) is alive;

2) The belief that the Messenger of Allaah (sal-Allaahu `alayhe wa sallam) is present and all-seeing, especially immediately after Salaat al-Jumu’ah;

3) The belief that the Messenger (sal-Allaahu `alayhe wa sallam) is the foremost intercessor;

4) They believe in “saints” and the dead in their graves, and they offer salaah at the graves requesting them for their needs to be met;

5) Their commendation of domes and lighting up of graves;

6) Their saying ((Yaa Rasool, Yaa Muhammad (sal-Allaahu `alayhe wa sallam)));

7) Their hatred towards whoever loudly says ((Aameen)) and raises his hands in the salaah, considering such a person to be a Wahhaabee;

8) Their great astonishment at the use of the miswaak before the salaah;

9) Kissing the thumbs whilst doing wudhoo., the adhaan and after the salaah;

10) After the salaah, their imaam repeating the aayah:

{Allaah sends His prayers on the Prophet and also His angels too}, [Soorah al-Ahzaab, Aayah 56].

11) They gather after the Salaat al-Jumu’ah standing and reciting anaasheed and sending praises (to the Prophet (sal-Allaahu `alayhe wa sallam));

12) After they complete the Noble Qur.aan in the Salaat at-Taraaweeh in the month of Ramadhaan, they prepare alot of food and distribute it in the dining area of the masjid, in addition to sweets;

13) They build masaajid and seek much importance in decorating them, writing ((Yaa Muhammad)) above the mihraab (standing place of the imaam);

14) They consider themselves the people of the Sunnah and correct ‘aqeedah and that (all) others are in error;

15) What is the Sharee’ah ruling regarding performing the salaah behind them (their imaam), considering I am a medical student in Karachi and live next door to the masjid where they are in (overall) control (i.e. their beliefs and practices prevail)?

Response:

Whoever has these characteristics and attributes, then it is not permissible to offer your salaah behind them (their imaam), and whoever knows of their condition, then their salaah is not correct. This is because most of their characteristics and attributes are of kufr and bid`ah which negate the tawheed (oneness) with which Allaah had sent His messenger and revealed in His Book, and that which conflicts with the Qur.aan, such as His (Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala) saying:

{Verily, you (Muhammad) will die and verily, they (too) will die}, [Soorah az-Zumar, Aayah 30]

And His saying:

{And the mosques are for Allaah (alone), so invoke not anyone along with Allaah}, [Soorah al-Jinn, Aayah 18]

And their bid`ah which they practice should be detested with good manners, and if they accept (and leave these pratices) then all praise is for Allaah (alone); And if they do not accept (and continue in these practices) then you should leave them and offer your salaah in the masjid of the Ahlus-Sunnah. And in this, with respect to Ibraaheem (alayhis-salaam) there is a good example:

{And I shall turn away from you and from those whom you invoke besides Allaah. And I shall call on my Lord; and I hope that I shall not be unblest in my invocation to my Lord}, [Soorah Maryam, Aayah 48].

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

The Permanent Committee for Islaamic Research and Fataawa, comprising –
Head: Shaykh ‘Abdul ‘Azeez Ibn Abdullaah Ibn Baaz;
Deputy Head: Shaykh ‘Abdur-Razzaaq ‘Afeefee;
Member: Shaykh ‘Abdullaah Ibn Qu’ood
Fataawa al-Lajnah ad-Daa.imah lil-Buhooth al-‘Ilmiyyah wal-Iftaa., – Volume 2, Page 396, Fatwa No.3090

Sajdat al-Shukr (Prostration of thankfulness) : Al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah

by AbdurRahman.orgJanuary 8, 2014March 17, 2015

Question:

What are the details of Sajdat al-Shukr, the prostration of thankfulness to Allaah for something that has happened?

Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

Sajdat al-Shukr is prescribed for anything that makes one happy, whether it is attaining some benefit or warding off some harm.

The evidence (daleel) for this is to be found in the Ahaadeeth and Aathaar (reports). Among the Ahaadeeth is the Hadeeth of Abu Bakrah (may Allaah be pleased with him), who said that when the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) heard any news that made him glad, he would fall down prostrating to Allaah, may He be exalted. (Reported by the five except al-Nisaa’i; al-Tirmidhi said, it is hasan ghareeb). According to the version narrated by Ahmad: he saw the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), when news reached him that his troops had prevailed over their enemy, he was lying with his head in ‘Aa’ishah’s lap, then he got up and fell in prostration. (Reported by Ahmad, 5/45; al-Haakim, 4/291).

Another hadeeth is that narrated by ‘Abd al-Rahmaan ibn ‘Awf, who said: the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) went out to the place where the sadaqah (charitable donations) was kept, then he faced the Qiblah and fell in prostration, remaining like that for a long time. Then he raised his head and said, “Jibreel came to me with good news, he said, ‘Allaah says to you, “Whoever sends blessings on you, I will send blessings on him, and whoever sends greetings of peace to you, I will send greetings of peace to him,”’ so I prostrated in thankfulness to Allaah.” (Narrated by Ahmad. Al-Mundhiri said: the hadeeth of Sajdat al-Shukr came from the hadeeth of al-Baraa’ with a saheeh isnaad, and from the hadeeth of Ka’b ibn Maalik and others.)

The reports include the following:

Abu Bakr (may Allaah be pleased with him) prostrated when he heard the news that Musaylimah had been killed. (Reported by Sa’eed ibn Mansoor in his Sunan).
‘Ali ibn Abi Taalib prostrated when he found Dhu’l-Thadiyah among the Khawaarij. (Reported by Ahmad in al-Musnad)
Ka’b ibn Maalik prostrated at the time of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) when he was given the glad tidings that Allaah had accepted his repentance. (The story is agreed upon)

And Allaah is the source of strength. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad and his family and companions.

Al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah Li’l-Buhooth al-‘Ilmiyyah wa’l-Iftaa’, 7/266

Q: How should sujud-ul-shukr (Prostration of Thankfulness to Allah) be performed? When is it Mustahab (desirable) to be performed? In addition, what is the Du`a’ (Supplication) to be said in it? Please provide us with a detailed and complete clarification.

A: Sujud-ul-Shukr is enjoined to be performed by a person whenever they are blessed with a grace that they waited and longed for, or when they get rid of a distress or a misfortune that afflicted them or was about to do so. In such cases, it is Sunnah (a commendable act) that the concerned person makes one Sujud (prostration) in which they are to glorify Allah and thank Him. Finally, Wudu’ (ablution) is not a condition for the validity of Sujud-ul-Shukr.

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

http://alifta.com/

Tawakkul as a substitute for supplication – Permanent Commitee

by AbdurRahman.orgJanuary 8, 2014January 17, 2015

Fatwa from Permanent Commitee

source: alifta.net

Q 2: does Tawakkul (putting one’s trust in Allah) negate du`a’ (supplication)? That is to say, “Can a Muslim slave put his trust in Allah without performing Du`a’ citing this Hadith Qudsy (Revelation from Allah in the Prophet’s words) which says “Whoever is occupied with My Dhikr rather than seeking My Grace, I shall give him/her the best I give to the seekers.” What is meant by “My Dhikr”? Does it mean the Holy Qur’an? And what is meant by “seeking My Grace”? The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, Whoever does not ask Allah,surely Allah will be angry with him.

That is what is meant by this Hadith. My question is, “Can we combine Du`a’ with Tawakkul? Actually, I have been confused between the Hadith Qudsy and the Prophetic Hadith mentioned above. What is deemed preferable, asking Allah or being busy with Dhikr rather than asking Him?

A: First of all, This Hadith is related by Al-Tirmidhy in His Jami`, on the authority of Muhammad ibn Al-Hasan ibn Abu Yazid Al-Hamadany from `Amr ibn Qays from `Atiyyah from Abu Sa`id Al-Khudry who reported Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) as saying, Allah (Glory be to Him) says, “Whoever is occupied with the Qur’an rather than remembering Me and seeking My Grace, I shall give him/her the best I give to the seekers. Indeed, the superiority of Allah’s Word over that of man is to equal to His superiority over His creation. This Hadith is Da`if (a Hadith that fails to reach the status of Hasan, due to a weakness in the chain of narration or one of the narrators) as the chain of its narrators includes `Atiyyah Al-`Awfy and Muhammad ibn Al-Hasan ibn Abu Yazid, who are considered as weak narrators.

Imam Abu Hatim Al-Razy said, “This is a Hadith Munkar (rejected Hadith reported by a weak narrator whose narration conflicts with an authentic Hadith).” Al-Hafizh Al-Dhahaby said, “Al-Tirmidhy tried to raise it to the rank of Hasan, but it is not considered as Hadith Hasan.” The Hadith was also related by Al-Darimy in his Sunan and Al-Tabarany in his book “The Du`a’ (supplication)” and Al-Bayhaqy in Al-Asma’ wa Al-Sifat (Allah’s Names and Attributes). It was also mentioned by Ibn Al-Jawzy in “Al Mawdu`at” (fabricated Hadith); Allah knows best.

Secondly, Many texts in the Qur’an and Sunnah have recommended Du`a’ urging its performance to the extent of describing it as the core of worship. Allah (may He be Exalted) said, Surah Al-Baqarah, 2: 186 And when My slaves ask you (O Muhammad) concerning Me, then (answer them), I am indeed near (to them by My Knowledge). I respond to the invocations of the supplicant when he calls on Me (without any mediator or intercessor). So let them obey Me and believe in Me, so that they may be led aright. Allah (may He be Praised) also said,Surah Ghafir, 40: 60 And your Lord said: “Invoke Me, [i.e. believe in My Oneness (Islâmic Monotheism) and ask Me for anything] I will respond to your (invocation). Verily, those who scorn My worship [i.e. do not invoke Me, and do not believe in My Oneness, (Islâmic Monotheism)] they will surely enter Hell in humiliation!” In addition, there are many other relevant Qur’anic verses. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, Du`a’ (Supplication) is itself the worship. Related by As-hab-ul-Sunan (authors of Hadith compilations classified by jurisprudential themes) through an authentic Sanad (chain of narration). Du`a’ is not in conflict with Tawakkul, as the former denotes application of the means. Whoever thinks that Tawakkul means deserting Du`a’ is fabricating lies against Shari`ah, the same as the one who thinks that Tawakkul can be a substitute for the application of the means, like selling, purchasing, cultivating in addition to other means. What is lawful for every Muslim is combining Tawwakul with pursuing the rightful and permissible means. In Allah Alone we seek help.

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

Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’

The Meaning of Tawakkul : Permanent Committee

by AbdurRahman.orgJanuary 8, 2014March 17, 2015

Fatwa no. 2798:

Q: If Tawakkul (putting trust in Allah) does not mean that you should jump into a pool of water while you cannot swim, nor put yourself in danger by a physical movement without previous training, nor sit in a room full of insects without using insecticide and expose oneself to affliction of a disease, nor leave a drawer opened exposing its contents to loss, then what is the meaning of Tawakkul? We appreciate your guidance, and many thanks to you.

A: Tawakkul means that a person should put their trust in Allah (may He be Exalted) Alone. It is an obligatory act and one of the tenets of Iman (faith). Allah (may He be Exalted) says:Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5: 23 … and put your trust in Allâh if you are believers indeed. Tawakkul is one of the powerful moral means helping to achieve goals and fulfill purposes. However, a Muslim should combine it with other means, whether they are acts of `Ibadah (worship) like Du`a’ (supplication), Salah (Prayer), Sadaqah (voluntary charity) or maintaining the ties of kinship, or other material means which Allah has predestined that their effects follow from their causes like the examples mentioned by the questioner here. We should have Tawakkul to follow the way of Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) in this regard as he was the best person who had Tawakkul. He used to consider other appropriate material means along with his Tawakkul. So, whoever ignores the material means thinking that it is sufficient for them to have Tawakkul, contradict the way of Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him). This type of Tawakkul is not permissible. Rather, it is recklessness and not a Shar`y (Islamically lawful) Tawakkul.

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

Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’

source : alifta.net

”Were You To Depend upon Allaah with true dependence” : Permanent Committee

by AbdurRahman.orgJanuary 8, 2014March 17, 2015

Question:

Please explain this Hadeeth so that we have a correct understanding of it: لو أنكم كنتم توكلون على الله حق توكله لرزقكم كما يرزق الطير تغدو خماصا وتروح بطانا “Were you to depend upon Allaah with true dependence, He would have provided for you like He provides for the bird; early in the morning he leaves hungry, but returns at the end of the day with a full stomach.”

Answer:

The Hadeeth from ‘Umar, may Allaah be pleased with him, that the Prophet (sallAllaahu `alayhi wa sallam) said:

لو أنكم كنتم توكلون على الله حق توكله لرزقكم كما يرزق الطير تغدو خماصا وتروح بطانا

“Were you to depend upon Allaah with true dependence, He would have provided for you like He provides for the bird; early in the morning he leaves hungry, but returns at the end of the day with a full stomach.” (At-Tirmithi no. 2344, Ibn Majah no.4I64, Ahmad 1/30,52, Ibn Hibban no. 2548 and Al-Hakim 4/318)

was recorded by Imam Ahmad, At-Tirmithi, An-Nisa’i, Ibn Majah, Ibn Hibban, and Al-Hakim, and At-Tirmithi said, “This Hadeeth is Hasan Sahih.”

The (Arabic) word (in the Hadeeth is) “Tawakkul,” means to depend sincerely in one’s heart upon Allaah Almighty, for bringing blessings and warding off harms, for this world and the Hereafter. If people were to sincerely trust and depend upon Allaah to bring them that which benefits them and to keep away that which harms them, and if they take reasonable, practical steps themselves, Allaah will send their provision to them by the simplest of means. Just as Allaah Almighty gives the bird provision when it simply leaves in the morning, seeking its sustenance, and returns at the end of the day. Yes, it does go out to search, but it is an easy effort. Tawakkul in reality does not deny actually working and striving for provision, for Allaah Almighty has decreed that we should work and it is from His ways that he gives people when they strive. In fact, Allaah Almighty ordered us to both depend upon Him and to work, to take the necessary steps needed to achieve our goals, and so the act of striving for our sustenance is an act of physical worship while trusting and depending upon Allaah is faith in Him. He said:

وَعلَى اللّهِ فَلْيَتَوَكَّلِ الْمُؤْمِنُونَ

“And in Allaah let believers put their Trust” [Ibrahim 14:11]

He made Tawakkul like Taqwa which is to establish the means that have been ordered, while depending upon Allaah. Dependence without working and striving is mere impotence, even though, when one does this, he may appear to depend on Allaah to a certain degree. No one, then, should transform his trust into mere impotence and weakness. One should rather deem his trust in Allaah to be like working and striving: it is one of the necessary steps one must take to achieve his goal.

And with Allaah is the facilitation to do what is right. May Allaah send peace and blessings upon Muhammad, his family, and his Companions

Permanent Committee for Research and Verdicts
Fatawa Islamiyah, Vol. 7, Pages 172-174, DARUSSALAM

Is it permissible to stand or sit by a grave for supplication in favour of the deceased? – The Permanent Committee

by AbdurRahman.orgNovember 13, 2013August 5, 2015

Seeking Blessings from Graves

Question:

Is it permissible to stand or sit by a grave for supplication in favour of the deceased?

Answer:

The purpose of the legitimate visitation to graves is to get a lesson, remember death and heed, not for seeking blessings from the buried.

When one enters a cemetery he should greet the dead saying: As-Salaamu Alaikum, O people of this place, believers and Muslims, and we will – if Allah wills – follow you. We ask Allah safety for ourselves and yourselves.[1]

One may also recite other supplication in favour of the dead that are recommended by the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam).

But he should not ask the dead people to fulfil his needs, seek relief or benefit from them. Supplication alone is an act of worship which must be dedicated to Allah alone.

There is not harm however, in standing or sitting by the grave while supplicating, but not for seeking blessings or taking rest. Graveyards are not resting places or residential area for people to sit in.

It is legitimate to stand by the grave areas right after burial to supplicate in favour of the buried asking Allah to confirm him and forgive him. It is authentically reported that whenever the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) buried a dead, he would stand by his grave and say: Ask Allah’s forgiveness for your brother, and ask him to make him give firm answers, for right now he is being questioned.[2]

[1] Muslim no.975
[2] Abu Dawud no.3221, Al-Hakim 1:370 and Al-Bayhaqi 4:56

The Permanent Committee

Fatawa Islamiyah Vol. 1 Page 66, Dar-us-salam publications

Bowing as a Greeting Either in Karate or for Some Other Reason – Permanent Committee

by AbdurRahman.orgNovember 5, 2013March 29, 2015

Question:

We joined a karate club in America, and when our trainer told us that we had to bow to him after he bowed to us, we refused, explaining to him that we couldn’t because of our religion. He accepted our excuse but then he said that we had to bow our heads at least. He said that since he began the greeting by bowing, we had to respond. What is the ruling in this issue?

Answer:

To greet somebody by bowing is unlawful, regardless whether that person is a Muslim or a disbeliever, and regardless whether you bow with our entire upper body or with your head only. This is because bowing is a kind of worship, and worship is for Allaah Almighty alone.

May Allaah send peace and blessing upon Muhammad, his family, and his Companions.

Permanent Committee for Research and Verdicts
Fatawa Islamiyah Vol. 8 Page 219

Performing Ruku‘ (bowing) to one’s parents? – The Permanent Committee

by AbdurRahman.orgOctober 23, 2013August 5, 2015

Q 7: Is it permissible to perform Ruku‘ (bowing) to one’s parents?

This is impermissible and is tantamount to Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship).

Ruku‘ is a form of worship, just like Sujud (prostration); therefore, it is impermissible to bow or prostrate before anyone other than Allah the Exalted.

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

The Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’
Browse by Volume Number > Group 1 > Volume 1: `Aqidah (1) > Creeds > Prostration before anyone other than Allah > Bowing to parents

Prostrating before other than Allaah and slaughtering animals for them

by AbdurRahman.orgOctober 23, 2013August 5, 2015

Q 4: Is it true that a person who testifies that Allah is the Creator and Provider,and that Muhammad (peace be upon him) is Allah’s Messenger, and performs Salah (Prayer) is a Muslim even if they make Sujud (Prostration) to their shaykh and offer sacrifices for people other than Allah?

A:

Making Sujud and sacrificing for anyone other than Allah is Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship). People who indulge in any of these practices after being aware of the ruling of doing so, are Mushriks (people who associate others with Allah in worship) and Kafirs (disbelievers). Allah will not accept any of their deeds even if they offer Sawm (Fast) and Salah. Deeds of Mushriks are rejected. Moreover, if they die in this case, Allah will not forgive them.

Allah (Exalted be He) says:

Verily, Allâh forgives not that partners should be set up with Him (in worship), but He forgives except that (anything else) to whom He wills.

Allah also says,

Verily, whosoever sets up partners (in worship) with Allâh, then Allâh has forbidden Paradise to him, and the Fire will be his abode. And for the Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers) there are no helpers.

Also Allah (Exalted be He) says:

But if they had joined in worship others with Allâh, all that they used to do would have been of no benefit to them. But if they return to Allah in sincere Tawbah (repentance to Allah) before death, Allah will forgive them,

as Allah (Exalted be He) says:

Say: “O ‘Ibâdî (My slaves) who have transgressed against themselves (by committing evil deeds and sins)! Despair not of the Mercy of Allâh: verily, Allâh forgives all sins.

Muslim scholars unanimously agree that this Ayah (Qur’anic verse) speaks about repentant people.

As for the Ayah of Surah Al-Nissa’:

Verily, Allâh forgives not that partners should be set up with Him (in worship), but He forgives except that (anything else) to whom He wills ,

it speaks about the unrepentant people, namely, those who died in Kufr (disbelief) and sin. May Allah protect us from that.

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

The Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’
Posted from: http://alifta.com

The so-called Salat Al-Fatih – The Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta

by AbdurRahman.orgJuly 24, 2013March 24, 2015

Q 5: The Al-Tijaniyyah sect has their own supplication called Salat Al-Fatih, which they consider to be better than reciting the Qur’an. Is this true? Moreover, on Friday before Maghrib (Sunset) Salah and after Subh (Dawn) Salah, they circle around a piece of cloth on which, they claim, the Prophet (peace be upon him) and Ahmad Al-Tijany sit. During such times they recite the supplication called Salat Al-Fatih. Please, provide evidence and clarify if this practice is proper.

A: All their claims are false. Moreover, their deeds are null and void and are considered to be Bid’ahs (rejected innovation in religion).

For more clarification, I will cite the so-called Salat-ul-Fatih (Remembrance from the Tijaniyyah order).The following is cited in the Simplified Encyclopedia of Contemporary Religions, Doctrines, and Parties – The World Assembly Of Muslim Youths: “Their leader, Ahmad Al-Tijany, claims that he physically met the Prophet, peace be upon him, talked with him, and learned Salat-ul-Fatih from him- The wording of this Salat reads: “O Lord, have peace and blessings upon our master Muhammad, the opener of the closed, the last of the prophets, the supporter of right with right, and the guide to Your straight path, his family as high as his standing and rank.” They have beliefs concerning this Salah, including:The Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, told him that the reward for reciting it once is equivalent to that of reciting the Qur’an six times.

The Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, told him once again that the reward for reciting this Salah once is six thousand times as much as that for every Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah), Du`a’ (supplication), long or short, and the recitation of the Qur’an (Jawahir Al-Ma`any Wa Bulugh Al-Amany, vol. 1, p. 136)

The reward for such Salah is gained only if the reciter is authorized to recite it. This means there should be a chain of authorization tracing back to Ahmad Al-Tijany who, according to him, received this Salah from the Messenger of Allah.

Allegedly being the words of Allah (Exalted be He), this Salah is deemed to be a Hadith Qudsy (Revelation from Allah in the Prophet’s words) (Al-Durrah Al-Faridah, vol. 4, p. 128).

– He who recites Salat-ul-Fatih ten times will gain a reward that even an `Arif (Sufi who has reached a high station of worship) who had lived for one million years would not get if he had not recited it.

– He who recites this Salah even once will have his sins forgiven and will have a reward as much as that for six thousand Tasbihs (saying: “Subhan Allah [Glory be to Allah]”), Du`a’s (supplication), and Dhikrs. (See Mushtaha Al-Kharif Al-Jani, pp. 127, 299 and 300.

I say that the following verse applies to the above: “Then woe to those who write the Book with their own hands and then say, ‘This is from Allah,’ to purchase with it a little price!” The Committee elaborated on this sect in the previous Fatwas.

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

The Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta
Member – Member – Deputy Chairman – Chairman
Abdullah ibn Qa’ud – Abdullah ibn Ghudayyan -Abdul-Razzaq Afify – Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz

http://alifta.com/Fatawa/Fatwaprint.aspx?id=664&BookID=&sectionid=7

Allaah reveals of His wisdom what He wishes so believers may increase in Eeman, witholds what He wishes so believers may increase submission to Him

by AbdurRahman.orgJune 12, 2013August 7, 2015

Bismillaah Al-Hamdulillaah wa salatu wa salaamu ‘ala rasulullaah
Amma ba’d

Question: What is the wisdom behind facing the Ka`bah in Salah (Prayer)?

Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’ answered:

It is known that the duty of a Muslim is to carry out Allaah’s commands as much as possible and refrain from committing what He has prohibited.

Whether one grasps its wisdom or not, one must believe that Allaah commands only that which is of benefit, and prohibits that which is harmful. All of His legislations contain wisdom which He knows; He reveals of this wisdom what He wishes so that believers may increase their Eeman, (Faith), and witholds what He wishes so that believers may increase their submission to Him.

The Muslims have taken the Ka`bah as a Qiblah (direction faced for Prayer) in obedience to Allaah’s order in His statement: Verily! We have seen the turning of your (Muhammad’s, salallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) face towards the heaven. Surely, We shall turn you to a Qiblah (prayer direction) that shall please you, so turn your face in the direction of Al-Masjid-al-Haraam (at Makkah). And wheresoever you people are, turn your faces (in prayer) in that direction. (Surah Al-Baqarah, ayah 144)

The wisdom behind this is perhaps that it is the Qiblah of our father Ibrahim (‘alaihi salaam), as mentioned regarding the event when the Ayah was revealed. The Prophet (peace be upon him) had hoped to be ordered to face the Ka`bah during Salah instead of Jerusalem. Thus, Allah granted his wish. It might also be a refutation of the claim made by the Jews that we share their Qiblah. It may be for another reason and only Allah knows.

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

Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’ (Chairman ‘Abdul-‘Aziz ibn ‘Abdullah ibn Baz)

Source: AlIfta.Com

Celebrating Valentine’s Day (‘Eid ul-Hubb or Holiday of Love) – Permanent Committee

by AbdurRahman.orgFebruary 13, 2013February 7, 2018

Fatwa no. 21203
Fatwa from Permanent Committee :

Question :

Some people celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14 by exchanging red roses, dressing in red, and congratulating one another on that day. Some cake shops make heart-shaped cakes in red and draw hearts on them and other shops advertise special items on sale for this day. What is your opinion on:

First: Celebrating this day?
Second: Buying from these stores on this day?
Third: Shop owners who do not celebrate this day selling gifts to be given by those who do celebrate it?

May Allah reward you with the best!

Answer:

The clear-cut evidence from the Qur’an and Sunnah, upon which the Salaf (righteous predecessors) of this Ummah (nation based on one creed) unanimously agreed, confirms that there are only two Eids (festivals) in Islam: Eid-ul-Fitr (the Festival of Breaking the Fast) and Eid-ul-Adha (the Festival of the Sacrifice). Any other festival, whether peculiar to a person, a group, an event, or any other reason, is an invented festival that is not permissible for Muslims to celebrate, approve of, enjoy, or support in any way, because this is considered to be a transgression of the Limits of Allah. Anyone who transgresses the limits set by Allah has wronged themselves.

If we add to this fabricated festival the fact that it is one of the festivals of the Kafirs (disbelievers), this heaps sin upon sin, because it entails resembling them and is a type of support of them. Allah (may He be Glorified) forbids the Mumins (believers), in His Ever-Glorious Book, from imitating or supporting the Kafirs. It is authentically reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Anyone who imitates a people is one of them.” (Abu Dawud, Sunan, Book on clothing, no. 4031; Ahmad, Musnad, vol. 2, p. 50). Valentine’s Day falls under this heading, as it is one of the idolatrous Christian festivals. It is not lawful for a Muslim who believes in Allah and the Last Day to celebrate, approve of, or congratulate people on it; it is forbidden to them. Rather, it is obligatory for them to ignore and avoid it, in obedience to Allah and His Messenger and to keep away from that which will arouse Allah’s Anger and incur Punishment.

It is also Haram (prohibited) for Muslims to support this festival or any other Haram festival by any means, whether by supplying food or drinks; selling, buying, manufacturing, gift-giving, correspondence, advertising etc., because all this comes under cooperating in sin and transgression and disobeying Allah and His Messenger.

Allah (may He be Glorified and Exalted) says:

“Help you one another in Al-Birr and At-Taqwa (virtue, righteousness and piety); but do not help one another in sin and transgression. And fear Allaah. Verily, Allaah is Severe in punishment.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5: 2)

It is obligatory for Muslims to adhere to the Qur’an and Sunnah in all matters, especially in times of Fitnah (trial) when corruption is widespread. They must be sagacious enough and on their guard to avoid falling into the misguidance of those who have earned Allah’s Anger, those who went astray, or the Fasiqs (those flagrantly violating Islamic law) who have no fear of Allah nor have pride in being Muslims. Muslims should resort to Allah, asking for guidance and steadfastness in Islam, as it is Allah Alone Who guides and keeps us steadfast.

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

Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’

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

Fatwas of the Permanent Committee
Browse by Volume Number > Group 2 > Volume 2: `Aqidah > Feasts > Celebrating Valentine’s Day

Source Link : alifta.net

Beware of Pokemon game, which involves many religious violations, including (Shirk) polytheism and gambling

by AbdurRahman.orgFebruary 3, 2013July 21, 2016

Bismillaah Al-Hamdulillaah wa salatu wa salaamu ‘ala rasulullaah

Amma ba’d

Here is a fatwa from the Permanent Committee regarding the game, Pokemon. In the question, many evils of the game including its references to the Shinto religion is mentioned:

a- The six-pointed star: You rarely find a card that does not contain such a star. It is associated with Judaism, the logo and sign of the state of Israel, and the first symbol of the Masonry organizations in the world.

b- The cross: The game contains many forms of the cross which is the symbol of Christians.

d- Symbols of the Shinto creed: Shinto is a polytheistic religion that exists in Japan. The Japanese deify the sun, the earth and many plants and animals. The game contains many of these images.

In the answer of the Committee, they mention:

Furthermore, this game promotes and circulates the symbols of disbelievers and the forbidden images. It is also a form of consuming money unlawfully.

Accordingly, the Committee decides that this game, earnings gained through it, its sale or purchase are all prohibited, for it is a form of gambling that is forbidden by Allah and His Messenger. The Committee also recommends that every Muslim should be careful of this game and prevent his children from playing it to preserve religion, morals and creed.

May Allaah protect the Muslims & their kids from all evils and the plots of the Kuffaar.

Read the full fatwa @ answer of the Committee

Rulings On Possessing Birds In Cage And Some Animals – The Permanent Committee

by AbdurRahman.orgJanuary 18, 2013May 31, 2016

بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَٰنِ الرَّحِيمِ

Q: What is the ruling on keeping birds in a cage and giving them food, drink, and medication?

A:

It is permissible to raise birds, whether in cages or not, on the condition of giving them food, drink, and similar requirements. This is because the Prophet (peace be upon him) said about a cat: A woman entered the Fire because of a cat which she had kept locked, neither giving it food or drink, nor setting it free to eat from the vermin of the earth. Since this is applicable to a cat, it is also applicable to birds and the like.

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

The Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’
Member – Member – Member – Chairman
Bakr Abu Zayd – `Abdul-`Aziz Al Al-Shaykh – Salih Al-Fawzan – `Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz

Fatwa no. 18807

Q: I would like to ask your Eminence about the ruling on trading in and possessing animals and birds for the purpose of having a hobby or for decorative purposes. These include for example: 1- Decorative birds such as parrots and other colorful birds 2- Reptiles such as snakes and lizards 3- Predators such as wolves, lions, foxes, and so on.

These animals and birds are possessed either for their beauty or for their fur.

It should be noted that they are very expensive and will be kept behind bars, but dealing in them is very profitable.

A: First, selling decorative birds like parrots, colorful birds and nightingales for their voices is permissible because looking at and listening to them is permissible. There is no text in the Shari`ah which forbids selling or possessing them; at the same time, there are texts which may be understood to mean that it is permissible to keep them in cages, as long as they are fed and watered and given all the care that is needed.

Among these texts is the Hadith narrated by Al-Bukhari on the authority of Anas who said: The Prophet (peace be upon him) was the best of people in attitude. I had a brother called Abu `Umayr who had just been weaned, I think. When he (peace be upon him) came, he would say, ‘O Abu `Umayr what happened to the nughayr?’ – a nughar [young sparrow or small bird] with which he used to play… Al-Hafez Ibn Hajar said in his commentary Fath al-Bary, when enumerating the things that we learn from this Hadith: “… it is permissible for children to play with birds; it is permissible for parents to allow their children to play with things with which it is permissible to play; it is permissible to spend money on permissible things to entertain children; it is permissible to keep a bird in a cage and it is permissible to clip a birds’ wings – for one of these matters must have been the case with Abu `Umayr,and whichever one it was, the other is also implied in the ruling. There is also the Hadith narrated by Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) in which the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: A woman entered Hell because of a cat which she detained but she did not give it food or water, and she did not let it free so that it could eat of the vermin of the earth.

If this is permissible in the case of cats, then it is also permissible in the case of birds and the like. Some scholars saw that it is makruh (reprehensible) to keep them in cages. Others saw that this is not permissible because people do not need to listen to their voices and look at them. This is an unnecessary luxury and soft living, and it is also foolishness because it means that one is enjoying the voice of a creature that is calling out longing to be allowed to fly and grieving that it cannot fly freely in the open air. This view was stated in Al-Furu`, its Footnotes (4/9) and Al-Insaf (4/275) by Al-Marudy.

Second, among the conditions of valid sales is that the sold object should be something which is permissible to use and benefit from, even if there is no necessity as such. There is no benefit in snakes, which are indeed harmful, so it is not permissible to buy or sell them. The same applies to lizards – there is no benefit in them, so it is not permissible to sell or buy them.

Third, it is not permissible to sell predators such as wolves, lions, foxes or any other fanged carnivore, because the Prophet (peace be upon him) forbade that, and because it is a waste of money, which was also forbidden by the Prophet (peace be upon him).

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

The Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’
Member Member Deputy Chairman Chairman
Bakr Abu Zayd Salih Al-Fawzan `Abdul-`Aziz Al Al-Shaykh `Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz

Extract from Fatwa no. 1692
http://www.alifta.net/Fatawa/FatawaChapters.aspx?View=Page&PageID=3983&PageNo=1&BookID=7

…… According to the sound Hadith:

The Prophet (peace be upon him) saw a bird called “Al-Naghir” in the hand of Abu `Umayr Al-Ansary. Thereupon, he said: O Abu `Umayr, what did the bird do? He did not command him to release the bird and that was in the Sanctuary of Al-Madinah. Hisham ibn `Urwah said: The commander of the believers, `Abdullah ibn Al-Zubayr stayed in Makkah for nine years and saw birds in cages while the Companions of the Messenger (peace be upon him) used to come to Makkah and see them and they did not forbid that. ……

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

Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’!
Member-Deputy Chairman – Chairman
`Abdullah ibn Ghudayyan – `Abdul-Razzaq `Afify – `Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz