Love each other

Many people ask, "How can we live together in peace? What must be done for us to be happy with one another?" And how many other questions must we ask? Every person on the planet would have a say in this. No one person could possibly answer this question alone. We are all in this together, and we are all just about the same. We all live with one another. We all sleep, eat, drink. We all have families that need us. We are all made the same way. We have the same basic makeup. We all need, want, and feel. We all frown, cry, smile, laugh, hate, love. Are we really so different?
But we all come from different cultures. We worship different, talk different, dress different, judge different, and are taught different, but we are all still human. We all still come from the same place and we have the same destination.

"O mankind! God created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know each other (not that you despise each other). Verily the most honored of you in the sight of God is (he who is) the most righteous of you. And God has full knowledge and is well acquainted (with all things)." Nobel Qur'an (49:13)

The root of most violence, hate, and difference lies in one word: Ignorance. Ignorance of others breeds hate, and discontent with your fellow man. Being close minded and unwilling to learn about others just complicates the problem. When a person just takes another person’s word about a nation or religion instead of finding out for themselves, this also breeds hatred .Only when a person is willing to break free of this and open his or her mind can we solve this problem. When one seeks knowledge from all available sources and shuts out the propaganda of governments and power hungry groups that harbor hate, our minds begin to open and hate and ignorance slowly begin to fade away. When we travel and see new lands and learn the beauty of the whole world we then love all of the Creation and the Creator. As Muslims we should obey God, and live in peace with all of our brothers no matter what their nationality or skin color, or language. No matter what wrongs people have done to us, we should not hold one responsible for the actions of another. We all came from the same parents, Adam and Eve.

The Prophet Muhammadh (Peace and blessings of God be upon him) said in his last sermon: ‘All mankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over black nor a black has any superiority over white except by piety and good action. Learn that every Muslim is a brother to every Muslim and that the Muslims constitute one brotherhood. Nothing shall be legitimate to a Muslim which belongs to a fellow Muslim unless it was given freely and willingly. Do not, therefore, do injustice to yourselves.’

The Prophets of God (May peace be upon them all) were sent to us as role models. We are supposed to live as much like them as possible. They were humble, tolerant, kind, giving, loving and respectful. They had honor and obeyed God, and all of his rules. They did not hate, and they did not dislike. There were many Prophets for us to follow from many tribes and countries. When we learn to live with just half of the love for man they had, this world will be a new place. As you can see the Prophets of Islam are the same as Christianity and Judaism, so why do we hate each other’s religion so much. Why are we fighting all the time? Why do we hate each other so much? In The Qur'an Muslims are told to say:

"We believe in God, and the revelation given to us, and to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and the Tribes, and that given to Moses and Jesus, and that given to (all) Prophets from their Lord: We make no difference between one and another of them: And we submit to God." Nobel Qur'an (2:136)

Muslims are required to ask others to read the Qur'an without force of any kind. To invite others to worship our Creator without associating Him with any other gods.
In Surah (Chapter )Al-Imran, God says:

"O people of the Book! (Jews and Christians) Come to common terms as between us and you: that we worship none but Allah; that we associate no partners with Him; that we erect not, from among ourselves, lords and patrons other than Allah. If they turn back, Say:"Bear witness that we (at least) are Muslims (bowing to Allah's Will)." Nobel Qur'an (3:64)

If we are to live in peace we have to realize that we are not the best, that we are not "God’s gift to the world". We must stop being self centered and egotistic. We have to realize that there are those better than ourselves and many if not all people are better than our self. No man can ever truly know the heart and mind of another, but Allah is most knowing of what men keep in their hearts and minds. So how can we judge another man, when we know not? The true people of God are those who serve only God, Love God and fear God’s punishment, and love all people!

Muslims (all who submit themselves wholeheartedly to the One God) should be the most loving and understanding people of the earth, especially to the non-Muslims. Throughout history Muslims have proven they can do this. They have lived in peace with people from almost every nation and religion on the planet and have always lived in peace. There are those who call themselves Muslims and spread hate, but they are not real Muslims. They cannot be believers of the God who revealed the Glorious Qur’an and live such lives. They are not what they claim to be. We God-loving people from all nations should put away petty differences and open talks and promote love and kindness. We must approach each other with our similarities not our differences. We must come with open minds and as much knowledge of the other as we can, and promote talks with everyone not just those we chose.

Some steps we must take in order for peace to work are as follows:

- We must first think of what we can do for others, than ask what they can do for us.

-We have to let go of selfishness, and realize that there are other people on this earth, and we are not better than them.

-We must realize that not all people will accept Islam and that we should love them no matter what their religion.

-We must realize that God created many people with many colors, and He did this so we could come together no matter our differences. So we could become stronger for overcoming this. And be better servants to Him.

-We have to realize that even though we are different we have the same goal. (We will all return to our Creator). And we can work together even if we are different.
-The future will not improve unless we accept the past and forgive one another and learn from it, accept all culture and ways of life.

-We have to realize that no man is better than the other, No nation has the right to Judge another. But God will have His Day of Judgment where no man will have power. And no matter what your social status you will bow before Allah, the One, and the only one worthy of worship.

-We must realize that all men and women are equal. And the law of man must apply to one just the same as the other. No man is above the law. Allah is the only one above the law.

-We must provide help to all people in need. Not just one race or nation. This aid must be given without any conditions. You should never make a man pay a charity back. And a man must not force an unwanted charity onto another.

-Leaders are not born; leadership is earned, through hard work and God-fearing rules. No person is worthy of leadership unless put in place by the people they rule.

-We must realize that the rights we enjoy were not free. Someone had to pay for them. And if you want to enjoy these rights you must realize they are not just something that is given out. They cost blood, sweat, and tears, even if they weren't yours, you should act as if they were and be humble and respect these rights.

-We must realize that military might does not give a nation more rights. People of the entire world should stand against such actions by any nation. Power through fear and strong arming should be shunned and should not be tolerated.

-Change starts with one, at home, in the family. Our charity should be given freely to those who need it. Raise your children to give excess to those in need. Raise them to love your enemy instead of hate them. Teach your children that kind actions reap kind actions, and bad actions sow more bad actions. The children are the key. Raise them to love, and love they will.

People of the Earth I beg you please, for the sake of us all, Stop hating one another. We are all people. We all have feelings. We all love. No matter how we praise God. No matter what color our skin. Stop believing propaganda and learn for yourself. Stop associating the bad of one with the good of the whole. Stop focusing on the bad and remember and encourage the good. The thought of this brings tears to my eyes, my brothers and sisters, Let us love one another.

This article is dedicated to All the God-loving people of this world. May God bless us all no matter where we live or what color we are or what language we speak. May all we do be for the Glory of The One True God. And may all we do in His name prosper.

Adapted from an article by pintails7886 on HubPages
http://hubpages.com/hub/What-Islam-says-about-loving-thy-neighbor

The Affirmation of an Originator and Creator

The Affirmation of an Originator and Creator is the Most Self-Evident Truth But is Not What the Call of the Messengers Was Focused Upon

Wednesday, April 14 2010 - by TawhidFirst.Com

The existence of a sole originator and creator of the universe is the most apparent and self-evident truth - which with all the advances in certain sciences such as genetics and astronomy - can no longer be denied with any air of authority. The vast progress made by science over the second half of the last century in general has only shown that as man's realization of the greatness of the universe has increased, his actual knowledge of it has thereby decreased (to the extent of the said realization), and the complexity and intricacy of the universe leaves little room for doubting that there is an unfathomable power behind it - which is Allaah, the Lord of the worlds.

The creation of the heavens and the earth is indeed greater than the creation of mankind, yet most of mankind know not. (Qur'an Ch.Ghafir 40:57)

And the exegete, Ibn Jareer at-Tabari (d. 310H), comments that the origination and creation of the heavens and earth from nothing is greater than the creation of man from nothing.

However, the affirmation of an originator and a creator, despite its obviousness, has not been the main point of contention throughout most of history. As for affirming a mere creator and originator:

The World's Most Notorious Atheist Knows It ...

Over 50 years ago, Antony Flew re-invigorated the philosophy of atheism in the 20th century (after its waning) through a paper he wrote, "Theology and Falsification" which has probably been the most important work that invigorated and revived the atheism in the decades to follow. Flew was greatly respected and revered in the circles of atheism, being a towering figure in its philosophy.

However, Flew announced in 2004 that he is no longer an atheist and has accepted the existence of a creator. This, he explains, was a gradual process, through the progression in certain fields of science which slowly made him realize the impossibility of their not being an all-powerful all-knowing creator. Although Flew accepts that there must be a creator, he has not committed to any religion. In his book when one looks at the reasons, considerations or the specific arguments that led him to recant from atheism, you will find that they are not too far off from the implications of the meanings of these verses in the Qur'an in Surah at-Tur:

Were they created by nothing? Or were they themselves the creators? Or did they create the heavens and the earth, they do not have any firm conviction. (Qur'an - Ch.At-Tur 52:35-36)

Upon returning to the explanation of this verse in the classical commentaries, the following meanings are presented:

• Were they created by nothing, meaning without an originator or creator
• Were they created from nothing or as inanimate matter. meaning without a father or mother, and not by way of an embryo in its various stages, and not from sperm and ovum, were they created as inanimate beings
• Were they created without any purpose or end goal, there being no purpose to their lives
• Were they creators of themselves (they would never and cannot claim this)
• Were they the creators of the heavens and the earth (they would never and cannot claim this)

In the above book, Flew writes (pp. 88-89):

LAYING THE CARDS ON THE TABLE
... I now believe that the universe was brought into existence by an infinite Intelligence...

Why do I believe this, given that I expounded and defended atheism for more than half a century? The short answer is this: this is the world picture as I see it, that has emerged from modern science. Science spotlights three dimensions of nature that point to God. The first is the fact that nature obeys laws. The second is the dimension of life, of intelligently organized and purpose-driven beings, which arose from matter. The third, is the very existence of nature...

And also on (p. 89):

My departure from atheism was not occasioned by any new phenomenon or argument. Over the last two decades my whole framework of thought has been in a stage of migration. This was a consequence of my continuing assessment of the evidence of nature ...

And also on (p. 91)

Three domains of scientific enquiry have been especially important for me, and I will consider them as we proceed in the light of today's evidence. The first is the question that puzzled and continues to puzzle most reflective scientists: How did the laws of nature come to be? The second is evident to all. How did life as a phenomenon originate from nonlife? And the third is the problem that the philosophers handed over to the cosmologists: How did the universe, by which we mean all that is physical, come into existence?

And some of the chapter headings in his book include:
• Who wrote the laws of nature?
• Did the universe know we were coming?
• How did life go live?
• Did something come from nothing?

Despite coming to the conviction that there absolutely must be a creator, Flew has not committed to any particular religion. Flew has not reached the truth which naturally follows on from this new conviction which is that the affirmation of the sole originator, creator, maintainer and regulator of the universe who is described with the most beautiful Names and the most lofty Attributes necessitates that only He be worshipped alone, and with that realization true religion would become immediately distinct from false religion.

Belief in a Sole Originator and Creator Necessitates True and Pure Monotheism and All False Religion Departs From That Necessity

Once a belief in an all-powerful, all-knowing creator is established, it naturally follows that He be given worship and devotion alone, as that is the natural consequence of such a belief, and this is what characterizes true religion.
In all nations, societies, civilizations in history there has always been a belief in a supreme creator, and historically, each nation from the time of Noah (alayhis salaam), up until the time of Mohammad (alayhis salaam) has been sent a Messenger with the message to give worship only to the one truly deserving of it, which is Allaah, and to shun the worship of anything besides Him as that is false worship and is the essence of ingratitude, infidelity (i.e. kufr). And nations, civilizations and societies have set up deities besides Allaah, amongst them Prophets, the angels, the jinn (devils, demons), the natural phenomena (wind, lighting, rain, mountains, the sun, the moon, the stars, the planets, animals), the righteous (dead or living), their ancestors, stones, trees, idols and the likes. This false and unfounded worship, itself has four roots (arguments, justifications, claims) underlying it, and they are addressed in this article:

• False worship and False Religion: Derives From Four Roots, All Of Which the Qur'an Has Negated - (see here)

There Is No Doubt Concerning Allaah, the Originator and Creator
Allaah also said, regarding the saying of the Messengers to their peoples:

Their Messengers said: "What! Can there be a doubt about Allaah, the Originator (Creator) of the heavens and the earth?" (Qur'an Ch.Ibrahim 14:10)
The exegete Ibn Katheer commented on this verse:

He, the most high, informs about what occurred between the disbelievers and their [respective] Messengers of argumentation. When their nations faced them [the Messengers] with doubt concerning what they brought to them of (the invitation) to worship Allaah alone, without there being any partners to him (in worship), the Messengers said: "Is there any doubt concerning Allaah?", and this carries two things:

The first of them: "Is there any doubt about His existence, for the innate (human) disposition testifies to His existence, and it (the innate disposition) is naturally inclined to affirm Him, since acknowledging Him is a necessity in the sound innate disposition". However, doubt and confusion can sometimes occur to some of (the people) which requires inspection into the evidence that leads to (acknowledgment) of His existence. For this reason their Messengers said to them, in order to direct them to the path of knowing that He is "the Originator of the heavens and the Earth", the one who created them, originated them (from nothing), without (there being) any previous likeness for them. For the evidential witness by way of the newly-arising things, of creation and of (its) subjection [to mankind] is manifest for them both (the heavens and Earth). Hence, it is inevitable for them to have a Maker, who is Allaah, there is none which has the right to be worshipped except He, the Creator of everything thing, its Deity and Master.

And the second meaning: Regarding their saying, "Is there any doubt concerning Allaah", meaning is there any doubt in his Ilaahiyyah (right of worship), and in his uniqueness in the obligation of giving worship to Him (alone), whilst He is the Creator of all existing things and no one is deserving of worship except Him alone, without any partners. For the majority of nations used to affirm a Maker, but they used to worship others alongside Him, as intermediaries which they thought would benefit them or bring them closer to Allaah.

The exegete, Ibn Jareer at-Tabari explains that the meaning of this verse:

The Messengers of the nations to whom messengers came said: "Is there any doubt regarding Allaah that He (alone) is the one deserving of servitude and worship from you, O people, as opposed to all [others from] His creation?"

What the Prophets and Messengers Called To

They all called to the worship of Allaah alone, without any partners, since giving worship to others alongside Allaah is the greatest injustice (dhulm), since it is denying the favour and blessing of Allaah, and giving recognition, praise and worship to others for the favours and bounties that originate in truth with Allaah. This is what is called "infidelity" (kufr) and also "associationism" (shirk), and this is the greatest crime, more so than murder, theft, adultery and the likes.
Allah, the Most High said:

And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him alone. (Qur'an Ch.Al-Isra 17:23)
And also:
Worship Allah and join none with Him in worship... (Qur'an Ch.An-Nisa 4:36)
And also:
And We did not send any Messenger before you (O Muhammad) but We inspired him (saying): "None has the right to be worshipped but I (Allah)] alone, so worship Me (alone and none else)." (Qur'an Ch.Al-Anbiya 21:25)

So this was the call of the Prophets and Messengers. As for worship (ibaadah), its meaning, definition, forms and types, then that will be the subject of other articles, and it is a great and vital subject that one ought to grasp well in order to understand the distinction between true religion (Tawhid, Monotheism) and false religion (the deification of others besides Allaah and giving worship to them). For now, we can mention some brief words:

Brief Mention of worship and Its Types

Worship (ibaadah) refers to those inward and outwards actions that Allaah loves and is pleased with, and they include:

Supplication (du'a), this is from the greatest of types of worship, and the Prophet (alayhis salaam) said, (الدعاء هو العبادة), "Invocation is worship", so it has been equated with worship, and this is because invocation is accompanied inevitably with other forms of worship such as love, fear, hope, reliance and so on. This is why in the Qur'an we find a very strong prohibition of calling upon others besides Allaah. This should not be confused with calling upon someone for some matter in which he or she has the ability to aid or assist, as this is permissible with respect to those who are a) alive, b) can hear, c) are capable in that matter c) are in such proximity that allows them to fulfill the request.

Also from the types of worship are love (mahabbah), fear (khawf), hope (rajaa'), seeking aid (isti'aanah), seeking refuge (isti'aadhah), seeking rescue (istighaathah), reliance (tawakkul), awe (khasyhah), aspiration (raghbah), fear (rahbah), humble submission (khusoo') penitence (inaabah), sacrifice (dhabh), making oath (nadhr) and we will treat each of these in separate articles.

In Conclusion...

In conclusion, the mere affirmation of a supreme being, an originator, a creator has never been the major issue of contention, rather it is the issue of singling out worship for the creator alone which was the issue of contention between the Messengers and their peoples. And when one studies the great and amazing concern given to this truth - [which is the truth upon which the heavens and the Earth stand namely that none has the right to be worshipped except Allaah alone] - within Islam and within its texts (the Book and the Prophetic Sunnah) one will realize the difference between true worship and true monotheistic religion and all false worship and false religion, even if it is claimed to be monotheistic.

The Wisdom behind Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of God be upon him)’s Plural Marriages

IN THE NAME OF ALLAH, THE MOST COMPASSIONATE, THE MOST MERCIFUL

The Wisdom behind Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of God be upon him)’s Plural Marriages

Non-Muslims, in general, have many misconceptions on Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Islâm. As the product of so many false propaganda written against the Messenger of Islam and the true religion from Allah, many non-Muslims misunderstood the beauty, rationality, practicality, completeness, truthfulness or in short, excellence of Islâm and its teachings. One excellent Islâmic teaching in Islâm is polygamy (plurality of marriage among men).

And The prophets before Muhammad (pbuh) were also Polygamous,

Polygamy or plural marriage of men (polygyny) in Islam is limited only to a maximum of four with a condition that husbands are able to treat their wives with justice. Otherwise, the rule in Islam is monogamy as clearly stated in the following Ayah (Qur’anic Verse):

“If you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly with the orphans, marry women of your choice, two, three, or four. But if you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly (with them), then only one, or that which your right hands possess. That will be more suitable, to prevent you from doing injustice.” (Qur’an, 4:3)

Polygamy solves adultery among men, who by nature are polygamous, or are not happy with their wives from committing adulteries. It prevents the prevalence of AIDS and other similar diseases arising from illicit sexual relations among people of loose morals. It minimizes divorce as men are given the option to marry other women of their choice without divorcing their present wives. This subsequently, avoids the occurrence of juvenile delinquencies among children of broken families.

Furthermore, polygamy gives opportunity for more unmarried women to be married, considering the fact that women exceed men in number. This in turn eliminates fornication and prostitution, thus greatly reducing the number of children born out of wedlock. Unfortunately, children born out of wedlock are being ostracized in the same way as their mothers are being looked down by the society. In polygamy, children are recognized as legal offspring of their fathers just as their mothers are respected as legally married women.

Many enemies of Islâm center their biased criticisms on the Prophet Muhammad’s plural marriages, which exceeded more than four as allowed in the Qur’ân. They brand the Prophet (PBUH) as “sexually obsessed man” for marrying more than four. In Islam, men are allowed to marry maximum four as long as they can show fair treatment to the women (whom they marry) as stated in Chapter 4 Verse 3 of the Holy Qur’an.

Non-Muslims need to correct their distorted notion of the Prophet (PBUH) as “sexually obsessed man” for marrying more than four. They need to know that Allâh the All-Knowing, Most High commands all of us to follow His Messenger (PBUH) as the Prophet (PBUH) is the best example to the whole mankind. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) possesses an exalted standard of character (i.e., sublime morals) (Qur’ân 68:4). He is therefore, the best excellent example for us to follow in order to attain prosperous life in the Hereafter. Allah the Almighty says:

“Indeed in Allah’s Messenger (Muhammad) you have an excellent example to follow for him who hopes in (meeting with) Allah and the Last Day, and remembers Allah much.” (Qur’ân 33:21)

“Those who follow the Messenger, the unlettered Prophet, whom they find mentioned in their own (Scriptures); — in the Torah and the Gospel; for he commands them what is just and forbids them what is evil. He allows them as lawful what is good (and pure) and prohibits them from what is bad (and impure). He releases them from their heavy burdens and from the yokes that are upon them. So it is those who believe in him, honor him, help him, and follow the Light which is sent down with him — it is they who will prosper.” (Qur’ân 7: 157)

Islâm as the perfect religion is both rational and practical. The Prophet’s plural marriages, which exceeded the maximum number allowed for men is an exception to the Qur’ânic injunction (i.e., 4:3) to show all possible types of marriages in Islâm.
If he was “sexually obsessed man” he would have married more in his early manhood, not after he had passed the age of fifty. The fact that he married Khadijah bint Khuwailid (may Allah be pleased with her) and lived a monogamous life for twenty-seven years till Khadijah died, showed that he (PBUH) was not “sexually obsessed man”. But his marriage to Khadijah shows only limited types of marriage that are allowed in Islâm. That is, it is permissible for a man to marry a woman who is older than him, for a poor and orphan man to marry a wealthy woman, for an employee to marry his employer, and for a bachelor man to marry a widow.

If Allâh the Most Merciful did not allow the Prophet (PBUH) to marry other women, how could marriage in Islâm be open to all other types of marriages? Had the Prophet (PBUH) not married other women, Muslims who follow the Sunnah (Prophet’s Traditions, Practices and Teachings) would find it difficult to enter into marriage with the limited examples from the Prophet’s marriage to Khadijah. The Prophet’s plural marriages after his monogamous marriage with Khadijah for so many years show that in Islâm it is allowed for a man to marry virgin woman, who is very much younger than him, as in the case of ‘Aishah bint Abi Bakr (may Allah be pleased with her). Glory be to Allah, the All-Knowing, the All Wise, through ‘Aishah Muslims and non-Muslims worldwide have learned authentic ahadeeth from the Prophet (PBUH) as she was not only young but also very intelligent. She has memorized and narrated many of the Prophet’s authentic ahadeeth which renowned Muslim scholars like Imam Bukhari, Muslim, Nasai, Tirmidhi and Abu Dawud compiled in their collections of Ahadeeth. This is the very wisdom of the Prophet’s marriage to ‘Aishah. Non-Muslims who blatantly criticized the Prophet (PBUH) for marrying a very young girl and accused him of “sexually obsessed” must repent to Allah the Most Merciful, Most Forgiving for their evil thoughts.

A man in Islam can choose to marry a young and intelligent woman like ‘Aishah. He can marry his friends’ daughters, in the same way as the Prophet (PBUH) married ‘Aishah and Hafsah, the daughters of his closest friends: Abu Bakar and Umar (may Allah be pleased with them) in order to foster ties of relationships. Or he can marry his enemies’ daughters as the Prophet (PBUH) married: Juwairiyah bint Al-Harith, the daughter of Al Harith, the head of Bani Al-Mustaliq of Khuza’ah and Umm Habibah or Ramlah, the daughter of Abu Sufyan. Note that both Al-Harith and Abu Sufyan were bitter enemies of Islâm. The Prophet’s marriages to their daughters show how Islâm goes for peace and reconciliation.

Knowing that Juwairiah and Ramlah are both from ruling families, man’s marriage to women of high social status is therefore, allowed. Likewise, it is allowed for a man to marry a woman of low social class as in the case of Maria, who was given to the Prophet (PBUH) as a present by the ruler of Egypt. The Prophet (PBUH) elevated her status by marrying her, instead of making her his slave. His marriages to his captives: Juwairiyah Bint Al-Haritha and Saffiyah Bint Huyay bin Akhtab, not only show how Islâm tolerates mix marriages based on social status; but also shows kindness to the captives and the high regard given to women. Instead of making them slaves, being his captives, he married them and gave them the highest status of women being among the “Mothers of the Believers”. It further shows how the
Prophet (PBUH) freed or liberated women from the bondage of slavery.

Aside from inter-social and cultural marriages, the Prophet (PBUH)’s plural marriages also demonstrate that Islâm permits inter-religious marriages with the People of the Book (the Jews and the Christians) by marrying Safiyyah bint Huyay bin Akhtab, a Jew and Maria, a Christian from Egypt. Both of them embraced Islâm and became among the “Mothers of the Believers”.

With his marriage to Sawda Bint Zam’a (may Allah be pleased with her), a widower can opt to marry middle-aged, widow, jolly, and kind woman like Sawda who can take care of his children. The Prophet’s marriage to Sawda, whose race was black, also proved that in Islam it is allowed for a man to marry a woman belonging to a different race as there is no racism in Islam. Furthermore, the Prophet’s marriages to Hafsah Bint Umar bin Al-Khattab, Zainab bint Khuzaimah and Umm Salamah Hind bint Abi Omaiyah (may Allah be pleased with them), all widows, show that Islam encourages men to show sympathy and care for widows. One way to do this is by marrying them. Had he not married Umm Salamah, a widow with many children, he would not have demonstrated his virtuous teachings on the care of the orphans. He showed kindness to them, treated them just like his real children.

The Prophet’s marriage to his cousin, Zainab bint Jahsh (may Allah be pleased with her), who was divorced by his adopted son, Zaid (may Allah be pleased with him), shows that in Islâm, it is lawful for a man to marry his first degree cousin. It is also lawful for a man to marry a woman, divorced by his adopted son, since the adopted son is not related to him by blood.

In addition, Islâm allows the practice of betrothal before entering into marriage as what the Prophet (PBUH) did prior to his marriage to ‘Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her). It also permits marriage in absentia as in the case of his marriage to Umm Habibah or Ramlah (may Allah be pleased with her), the daughter of Abu Sufyan, who was in Abysinnia. The Prophet (PBUH) asked the King of Negus for Umm Habibah’s hand for marriage, which the King granted. This marriage in absentia demonstrates how practical and easy Islam is both as a religion and as a way of life.

Islâm also allows a case where a man marries a woman who presents herself for marriage as in the case of Maymunah (may Allah be pleased with her). Maymunah voluntarily presented herself to the Prophet (PBUH) and became one of his wives.
It is interesting to note that although the Prophet’s wives (may Allah be pleased with them) came from different socio-cultural backgrounds, they shared something in common. They were all virtuous believing women. No wonder they are called the “Mothers of the Believers”. The Prophet’s sunnah (tradition) for choosing virtuous believing women in marriage serves as guidance for believing men. Allah the All-Knowing guides Muslim men to marry virtuous believing women:

“Marry those among you who are single, and the virtuous ones among your slaves, male or female. If they are in poverty, Allah will give them means out of His grace: for Allah is Ample-Giving and He Knows all things.” (Qur’an, 24:32)

“Do not marry Unbelieving woman until they believe: A slave woman who believes is better than an unbelieving woman even though she allures you. Nor marry (your girls) to unbelievers until they believe. A man slave who believes is better than an unbeliever even though he allures you. Unbelievers do (but) beckon you to the Fire. But Allah beckons by His Grace to the Garden (of Bliss) and forgiveness. And makes His Signs Clear to mankind: that they may receive admonition.” (Qur’an, 2:221)

In line with the above commandments, the Prophet (PBUH) guides every Muslim to give priority to religiosity and piety in choosing a marital partner. Every believing Muslim man and woman who wants successful marriage needs to take guidance from the following teachings of Allah’s Messenger (PBUH):

Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with her) narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) said, “A woman is married for four things, i.e., her wealth, her family status, her beauty and her religion. So you should marry the religious woman (otherwise) you will be a loser.” (Bukhari, 7/27)

Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with her) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (PBUH) said, “When someone with whose religion and character you are satisfied asks your daughter in marriage, accede to his request. If you do not do so, there will be temptation on Earth and extensive corruption.” (Tirmidhi, 3090; Nasa’i and Ibn Majah)

The very wisdom behind giving priority to religiosity and piety in choosing a marital partner is that Islam is a divine religion from Allah the Holy One. It is a religion that teaches modesty, piety and righteousness. Women in Islam are expected to be modest. Allah the Exalted commands believing women not to display their beauty (faces) to men who are not related to them in order to guard their modesty by observing Hijab (proper covering of women’s bodies):

And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what (must ordinarily) appear thereof; that they should draw their veils over their bosoms and not display their beauty except to their husbands their fathers their husbands’ fathers their sons their husbands’ sons their brothers or their brothers’ sons or their sisters’ sons or their women or the slaves whom their right hands possess or male servants free of physical needs or small children who have no sense of the shame of sex; and that they should not strike their feet in order to draw attention to their hidden ornaments. And O ye Believers! turn ye all together towards Allah that ye may attain Bliss (Success). (Qur’ân 24:31)

It must be noted that Muslim women during the time of the Prophet (PBUH) implemented the above Ayah. The proofs are the following authentic ahadeeth:
Safiya bint Shaiba (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that ‘Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) used to say: “When (the Verse): ‘They should draw their veils over their necks and bosoms,’ was revealed, (the ladies) cut their waist sheets at the edges and covered their faces with the cut pieces.” (Bukhari 6/282)

‘Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said: “Men on camels used to pass by us while we were with the Prophet (PBUH) and in the state of ihram[1]. We would cover our faces with our gowns when they passed by us, and then uncover them again.” (This is reported by Abu Daw’ud and Ibn Majah. ‘Ata, Malik, AthThawri, Ash-Shafi’i, Ahmad, and Ishaq hold that it permissible for women to cover their faces in the state of ihram.)

‘Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said: “Whenever Allah’s Messenger (PBUH) intended to go on a journey, he used to draw lots amongst his wives, and Allah’s Messenger (PBUH) used to take with him the one on whom lot fell. He drew lots amongst us during one of the Ghazwat which he fought. The lot fell on me and so I proceeded with Allah’s Messenger (PBUH) after Allah’s order of veiling (the women) had been revealed…While I was sitting in my resting place, I was overwhelmed by sleep and slept. Safwan bin Al-Muattal As-Sulami Adh-Dhakwani was behind the army. When he reached my place in the morning, he saw the figure of a sleeping person and he recognized me on seeing me as he had seen me before the order of compulsory veiling (was prescribed). So I woke up when he recited Istirja’ (i.e. “Inna lillahi wa inna llaihi raji’un”) as soon as he recognized me. I veiled my face with my head cover at once, and by Allah, we did not speak a single word, and I did not hear him saying any word besides his Istirja’….” (Bukhari 5/462)

Hijab is one of the favors that Allâh the Most Merciful has given to Muslim women.
It protects them from being molested by men. Allâh the Almighty says:
“O Prophet! Tell your wives and daughters and the believing women to draw their cloaks (outer garments and veils) over their bodies. That will be better so that they will be known (as decent and respectable women) so as not to be molested. And Allâh is Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.” (Qur’ân 33:59)

Hijâb covers women’s beauty from men. It preserves women’s dignity and honor that deserve men’s respect, knowing that women in Islâm play vital role in the society. Likewise, it prevents men from committing any sexual assault or aggression against women. By observing hijab, both women and men who are not related by marriage or by blood are protected from evil temptations that create immorality in the society.

Islam admonishes Muslims to avoid indecency and lewdness or immorality. It strictly prohibits them from committing adultery and prostitution:

“Nor come nigh to adultery: for it is a shameful (deed) and an evil, opening the road (to other evils).” (Qur’an, 17:32)

“The man and woman guilty of adultery or fornication, flog each of them with a hundred stripes: let no compassion move you in their case, in a matter prescribed by Allah, if you believe in Allah and the Last Day: and let a party of believers witness their punishment.” (Qur’an, 24:2)

“Let no man guilty of adultery or fornication marry any but a woman similarly guilty, or an unbeliever: nor let any but such a man or an unbeliever marry such a woman: to the believers such a thing is forbidden.” (Qur’an, 24:3)

‘Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (PBUH) said, “O followers of Muhammad! There is none, who has a greater sense of Ghira (self-respect) than Allah, so He has forbidden that His slave commits illegal sexual intercourse or His slave girl commits illegal sexual intercourse. O followers of Muhammad! If you but knew what I know, you would laugh less and weep more!” (Bukhari, 7/148)

Ubadah ibn as-Samith (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (PBUH) said:

“Receive (teaching) from me, receive (teaching) from me. Allah has ordained a way for those (women). When an unmarried male commits adultery with an unmarried female (they should receive) one hundred lashes and banishment for one year. And in case of married male committing adultery with a married female, they shall receive one hundred lashes and be stoned to death.” (Muslim, 4191)

Non-Muslims should know that Allâh the Exalted permitted all Prophet’s plural marriages (i.e., more than four wives at the same time). Allâh the All Knowing, Most Merciful only allowed plural marriages (more than four wives at the same time) to His Messenger (PBUH) and not for the Believers at large. The plural marriages of the Prophet (which exceeded the maximum four allowed for men) are for the guidance of the Believers. They serve as guides on the dos and don’ts of marriages in Islâm. All the types of marriages that we derive from the Prophet’s plural marriages are based on the following Qur’ânic injunctions:

“This day are (all) things good and pure made lawful unto you. The food of the people of the Book (the Jews and the Christians) is lawful unto you and yours is lawful unto them. (Lawful unto you in marriage) are (not only) chaste women who are believers, but chaste women among the People of the Book, revealed before your time, when you give them their due dowers, and desire chastity, not lewdness. Taking them as lovers. If any one rejects faith, fruitless is his work, and in the Hereafter he will be in the ranks of those who have lost (all spiritual good).” (Qur’an 5:5)

And (remember) when you (O Muhammad) did say to him (Zaid bin Haritha –the freed slave of the Prophet, PBUH) on whom by guiding him to Islâm, and you (too) have done favor (by manumitting him) “Retain (in wedlock) your wife and fear Allâh.” But you did hide in your heart that which Allâh was about to make manifest (that He will give her to you in marriage). You did fear the people but it is more fitting that you should fear Allâh. Then, when Zaid had dissolved (his marriage) with her, with the necessary (formality) (he divorced her). We joined her in marriage to you; in order that (in future) there may be no difficulty to the Believers in (the matter of) marriage with the wives of their adopted sons, when the latter have dissolved with the necessary (formality) (their marriage) with them (they have divorced them). And Allâh’s command must be fulfilled. (Qur’an 33:37)
O Prophet (Muhammad)! Verily, We have made lawful to you: your wives to whom you have paid their dowers; and those whom your right hand possesses out of the prisoners of war whom Allâh has assigned to you; and daughters of your paternal uncles and aunts and daughters of your maternal uncles and aunts who migrated (from Makkah) with you; and any believing woman who dedicates her soul to the Prophet if the Prophet wishes to wed her. This is only for you and not for the Believers (at large). We know what We have appointed for them as to their wives and the captives whom their right hands possess in order that there should be no difficulty for you. And Allâh is Most Forgiving, Most Merciful. (Qur’an 33:50)

Allah’s statement: “…This is only for you and not for the Believers (at large).” (Qur’an 33:50) means that Allah the Almighty has allowed His Messenger (PBUH) more than the maximum number of wives that He has allowed for men in Islam, which is four (at the same time) as clearly stated in Qur’anic Ayâh (Verse) 3 of Chapter 4 (Surah An-Nisa).

It must be noted that other Prophets and Messengers of Allah have more than four wives. Another interesting guidance that mankind can get from the Prophet’s plural marriages is that he (PBUH) never divorced any of his wives although divorce is allowed in Islam. Islâm as a rational religion allows divorce only after the husband and wife have observed the prescribed conditions, which include the waiting period where they should stay in their house together. This is to give them ample time to reconsider their decision. If they find out that they can not really stay together for some incompatibilities, then they can finalize their decision for divorce. Allâh the All Knowing, All Wise says:

For those who take an oath for abstention from their wives, a waiting for four months is ordained. If then they return, Allâh is Oft forgiving, Most Merciful. But if their intention is firm for divorce, Allâh hears and knows all things. Divorced women shall wait concerning themselves for three monthly periods. And it is not lawful for them to hide what Allâh has created in their wombs, if they have faith in Allâh and the Last Day. And their husbands have the better right to take them back in that period, if they wish for reconciliation. And women shall have rights similar to the rights against them, according to what is equitable. But men have a degree over them and Allâh is Exalted in Power, All Wise. (Qur’ân 2:226-228)
Divorce is better for the couples than staying together in an atmosphere where love, understanding and harmony do not exist. Most cases of adultery happen among couples, most especially if they are non-Muslims or not god-fearing, because they are unhappy in their marriage lives. Subsequently, many juvenile delinquencies occur as the result of frequent quarrels of their parents who no longer love and understand one another.

All the conditions of types of marriages as demonstrated by the Prophet (PBUH)
reflect the wisdom behind his marriages. He has shown to us that any righteous Muslim man can live a happy and peaceful life with his wife or wives (whether young or old, poor or rich or any physical, social or racial status, etc.). A righteous Muslim can live with his believing or righteous wife or wives till death (without resorting to family break-ups) no matter how economically poor he is. He has proven that spiritual richness (i.e., fear and love of Allah and hope for His rewards) makes marriages successful. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) serves as the perfect model for the whole mankind. Verily he is Allah’s Mercy to all mankind. Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah)! Allah has perfected Islam through His Final Messenger, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Before the Prophet’s death, Allah has perfected and completed Islam. During his pilgrimage to Makkah on the Day of Arafat he received the following very inspiring revelation:

“…This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed My favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.” (Qur’an, 5:3)

Taken from :
http://islamgreatreligion.wordpress.com/2010/09/20/the-wisdom-behind-prophet-muhammads-saw-plural-marriages/
By Dr. Norlain bint Muhammad Dindang

Reverts perspective

The Move – To Islam
by Sister Diana Beatty

While every study cites different numbers, there is evidence that increasing numbers of people in the West are choosing Islam as their religion. The Almanac Book of Facts reported that the number of Muslims is roughly quadrupling each decade while the number of Christians is increasing by 50% each decade, including increases due to conversion, birth, and immigration.

Published scientific studies about the reasons people in the West become Muslim, such as those by Poston (1992), Köse (1996) and Gerholm & Litham (1988) as well as more recent studies, have found thirteen factors that contribute to the decision. Most individuals who choose Islam report several of the factors being involved in their choice. So what are the reasons that people say they choose Islam? The list below is in no particular order, as data on percentages of people mentioning particular reasons was not available for all of the reasons.
1. Dreams

A relatively small percentage of people report having dreams of holy figures that say or do things to invite or tell them they should become Muslim.
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2. Dissatisfaction with a previous religion

A good number of converts to Islam said that issues with a religion they were raised with led them to study other religions and find Islam. Common reasons for dissatisfaction with other religions include issues of logic, fairness, reliability of text, and issues of practice.
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3. Disillusionment with modern society

Some people who chose Islam said that materialist, imperialist and capitalist traits of Western society were unappealing to them and contributed in some degree to their search for other paths. Islam in the ideal seemed to address most or all of their concerns.
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4. Marriage to Muslims

Some people, generally but not exclusively women, said that they came to Islam through marriage to a Muslim. Most of these said that the marriage was a factor but that their decision was ultimately made on belief in the truth of Islam and not just for the sake of marriage. Some people converted before marriage and some converted after marriage.
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5. Interaction with Muslims

A high number of people who chose Islam said that meeting and making friends with Muslims influenced their decisions. Often, many of their misconceptions about Islam were dispelled by knowing real Muslims. Curiosity about their friends’ belief and culture contributed to their decisions to study Islam.
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6. The Qur’an

The vast majority of people who chose Islam reported that the Qur’an was influential in their decision. For many, it was the primary reason given. Upon reading a translation of Qur’an, these individuals said that they were ultimately convinced of it being from God. Particularly compelling to converts is the clear message of the Oneness of God contained in the Qur’an.
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7. Islam as a way of life

Many people also claimed that they appreciated Islam as a philosophy to live by that encompasses every aspect of daily life. This was often reported in contrast to their prior religious upbringing in which they felt religion was often compartmentalized away from many parts of daily life and thought.
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8. Rationality of Islam

Converts commonly reported that they chose Islam because they found it rational, consistent and understandable in terms of the nature of God, the nature of God’s message to mankind, and the expectations for how to live life.
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9. Morality and ethics

Some people who chose Islam said that they found its moral and ethical standards to be refreshingly high yet attainable. They also appreciated that the standards were fair for all people regardless of class, gender, race or creed, in contrast to the standards of many other faiths and the practice of most cultures.
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10. Disillusionment with racism

Some people chose Islam in part because of the emphasis in its teachings of the equality of all races and the more consistent practice of this ideal as compared to practitioners of other faiths in history.
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11. Status of women

As compared to other faiths, many converts said that the elevated status of women in Islam was a factor in their decision. They often mentioned the absence of a concept such as Original Sin and a very high, equitable level of rights and respect given to women in Qur’an and in practice of the Prophet of Islam.
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12. Spirituality

A large number of people choosing Islam claimed that they felt a higher degree of spirituality in their lives as Muslims and felt closer to God through the variety of prayers and remembrances of God available to them at all times.
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13. Religion as both community-based and individual-based

Finally, some said that Islam balanced communal and individual aspects of religion. Everyone has direct access to God, yet human relations are highly emphasized and the communal effects of one’s actions are not ignored.


Unfortunately, studies about Muslims and converts to Islam have often been conducted with questionable motives. A quick Internet search shows that most sites about this phenomenon are motivated by anti-Muslim sentiment, Christian proselytizing efforts, and sensationalists attempting to portray a cataclysmic clash of cultures and beliefs as a great threat to people in the West.

Further, an honest survey of the worst behaviors of some Muslims and cultures with Muslim-majority populations would lead some to believe that Islam has little good to offer.

In spite of this, people in the West are embracing Islam in significant numbers. As the reasons given above demonstrate, they are able to see beyond the fallacies of humans to the beauty of Islam itself. People are choosing Islam out of sincere belief in the Oneness of God, the revelation of Qur’an, and the message of the prophets sent by God. They find internal harmony with the genuine way of life that is Islam and the relationship with God they find in Islam. With rare exception, people choosing Islam are normal people leading normal lives, seeking God.

ISLAM HAS THE BEST SOLUTIONS TO ALL PROBLEMS

What is the purpose of life? Why and what are we here for in this world? Can we do anything we like in this world and expect to get away with it? Who am I? Where was I? Where am I? Where am I going? Is my purpose of life to eat, drink, sleep, play, procreate, etc. or is there something more than this? Do I have a Creator? Why has He created me? What does He expect of me? Who can tell me? Can my Creator Who is a Supreme Being create me and leave me without any kind of guidance? Can I spend my most precious time in gambling, drinking away in pub, sex, sports, drug abuse, clubbing, creating illegitimate children, proud of my colour and beauty (by the way if I have a fair complexion, is it of my own choice? Or if I have a dark complexion, is it my own fault?).

Is it the colour and the outer appearance making us different from animals or is it our inner self and noble character? Carelessness about our neighbours, taking pride in illicit affairs,, undermining the elders of our community, looking down upon the weak, needy and the destitute. If such is the case, then are we not worse than the beasts?

Look at the way women in our society are treated. They are no more than sex objects. Television, magazines, newspapers, advertisements, posters, to name a few are no more than to corrupt the innocent minds of our citizens. Western countries take pride in their so-called booming economy, development in science and technology and the rest. But they have nothing to do with moral values, loss in spiritual values, decay in self-respect to name a few.

Look at the ever rising rate in juvenile crimes, rapes, murders, unwanted pregnancies, abortions, illegitimate births, homosexuality, racism and prejudice, etc. Who is responsible for all these decay in our society? We have become materialists and slaves of our own desires. The truth of the matter is that we are psychologically enslaved by the media. We are losing our children, heritage and culture, moral and spiritual values even without realising it.

Is there ever a time going to come to wake up from the deep slumber and start questioning ourselves about our destination and where are we heading for? Today's youth are tomorrow's leaders. Have you ever thought in whose hands are we going to leave our society? What sort of citizens are our children going to become? What sorts of sons, husbands and fathers are our boys going to become? What sorts of daughters, wives and mothers are our girls going to become? What kind of leaders are we going to have to lead our nation? Apparently the so called world leaders have deliberately kept us occupied with worldly pleasures so that our minds are numbed and we don't get time to think the true purpose of life and question their wrong doings. In this way they can get away with virtually anything they like!

Think, and think very seriously and find the right solution. Don't forget ISLAM has the best solution to all these problems. One only needs to study Islam with an open mind and see for oneself how much it has it to offer towards social, moral and spiritual values.

POINTS TO PONDER: You have been created for a particular purpose. You are not here as a result of an accident or by chance or fluke either. You are in this world because God Almighty willed so. Not only did God create you, but also He created you from amongst the best of His creations, a human being! He showered all kinds of blessings upon you. He gave you eyes to see, ears to hear, a tongue to talk, intelligence, food, shelter and good health among countless other things. He has veiled your sins, weaknesses and shortcomings. He has exposed your virtues and good deeds. He has granted you so many blessings you never asked for as well as many you asked for.

Please remember this life is too precious to be wasted away. In order to discover the true purpose of life and live a meaningful life, study ISLAM and you will notice the difference.

www.revertmuslims.com

Capital Punishment in Islam

"...If anyone kills a person - unless it be for murder or for spreading mischief in the land - it would be as if he killed all people. And if anyone saves a life, it would be as if he saved the life of all people" (Qur'an Ch5 Verse 32).

Life is sacred, according to Islam and most other world faiths. But how can one hold life sacred, yet still support capital punishment? The Qur'an answers, "...Take not life, which God has made sacred, except by way of justice and law. Thus does He command you, so that you may learn wisdom" (6:151).

The key point is that one may take life only "by way of justice and law." In Islam, therefore, the death penalty can be applied by a court as punishment for the most serious of crimes. Ultimately, one's eternal punishment is in God's hands, but there is a place for punishment in this life as well. The spirit of the Islamic penal code is to save lives, promote justice, and prevent corruption and tyranny.

Islamic philosophy holds that a harsh punishment serves as a deterrent to serious crimes that harm individual victims, or threaten to destabilize the foundation of society. According to Islamic law (in the first verse quoted above), the following two crimes can be punishable by death:

• Intentional murder

• Fasad fil-ardh ("spreading mischief in the land")

Intentional Murder

The Qur'an legislates the death penalty for murder, although forgiveness and compassion are strongly encouraged. The murder victim's family is given a choice to either insist on the death penalty, or to pardon the perpetrator and accept monetary compensation for their loss (2:178).

Fasaad fi al-ardh

The second crime for which capital punishment can be applied is a bit more open to interpretation. "Spreading mischief in the land" can mean many different things, but is generally interpreted to mean those crimes that affect the community as a whole, and destabilize the society. Crimes that have fallen under this description have included:
• Treason / Apostacy (when one leaves the faith and joins the enemy in fighting against the Muslim community)
• Terrorism
• Land, sea, or air piracy
• Rape
• Adultery
• Homosexual behavior

Actual methods of capital punishment vary from place to place. In some Muslim countries, methods have included beheading, hanging, stoning, and firing squad. Executions are held publicly, to serve as warnings to would-be criminals.
It is important to note that there is no place for vigilantism in Islam -- one must be properly convicted in an Islamic court of law before the punishment can be meted out. The severity of the punishment requires that very strict evidence standards must be met before a conviction is found. The court also has flexibility to order less than the ultimate punishment (for example, imposing fines or prison sentences), on a case-by-case basis.

http://islam.about.com/cs/law/a/c_punishment.htm

JIHAD , Martyrdom and Suicide

JIHAD

Jihad in Arabic means striving and doing one’s utmost in word and deed. 

In Islamic terminology it refers to the Muslims striving to fight the unbelievers who initiates fight against them.  (Ref: al-Nihaayah fi Ghareeb al-Hadeeth by Ibn al-Atheer (1/319); al-Misbaah al-Muneer (1/112); Ahammiyyat al-Jihaad by Dr. ‘Ali ibn Nufay’ al-‘Alyaani. )

Shahaadah in Arabic has several meanings: definitive news, being present, seeing something, openness, and dying for the sake of God (Allah in Arabic). 

In Islamic terminology it refers to those Muslims who die fighting their enemies and because of the fighting. With regard to the Hereafter, it may refer to other things as well,  as we shall see below. (Ref: al-Mawsoo’ah al-Fiqhiyyah (26/214, 272). Sharh al-Nawawi ‘ala Muslim (2/164). 

Degrees of martyrs: 

The status of the martyr is high indeed, coming after the Prophets and Siddeeqs (those followers of the Prophets who were first and foremost to believe in them, like Abu Bakr As‑Siddeeq (May Allah be pleased with them) in status. 

Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah(may Allaah have mercy on him) said: 

Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): 

“then they will be in the company of those on whom Allaah has bestowed His Grace, of the Prophets, the Siddeeqoon, the martyrs, and the righteous” [Ch 4 (al-Nisa’) Verse 69 of the Holy Qur’an] 

These are the four degrees of Allaah’s slaves: the best of them are the Prophets, then the Siddeeqs, then the martyrs, then the righteous. (Majmoo’ al-Fataawa (2/223). 

Allaah has made Paradise of varying levels or degrees, of which the Mujaahideen (those who strive in jihad) will have one hundred degrees, as it was narrated in al-Saheeh from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), therefore the martyrs are not all of the same status, rather they vary in status. 

Ibn Hajar (may Allaah have mercy on him) said, after listing the martyrs other than those who are killed in battle: We have compiled from excellent sources more than twenty types… 

Ibn al-Teen said: All of these ways of dying are painful. Allaah has favoured the ummah of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) by making it a means of purifying them from sin, increasing their reward and causing them to attain thereby the status of the martyrs. 

I (Ibn Hajar) say: It seems that those mentioned are not all of the same status. This is indicated by the report narrated by Ahmad and Ibn Hibbaan in his Saheeh from Jaabir, and by al-Daarimi, Ahmad and al-Tahhaawi from ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Hubshi, and by Ibn Maajah from ‘Amr ibn ‘Anbasah: that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was asked: What type of jihad is best? He said: “The one whose horse is killed and whose blood is shed.” (Fath al-Baari (6/43, 44). 

In the saheeh Sunnah there are reports from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) which indicate this difference in status among the martyrs. 

For example: 

(a)It was narrated from Nu’aym ibn Hammaar that a man asked the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): Which of the martyrs is best? He said: “Those who, when they took up their position in the ranks, did not turn their faces away until they were killed. They will be in the dwellings on high in Paradise, and their Lord smiles upon them, and when your Lord smiles upon a slave in this world, he will not be brought to account.” (Narrated by Ahmad (21970); classed as saheeh by Shaykh al-Albaani in al-Silsilah al-Saheehah (2558). 

(b) It was narrated that ‘Utbah ibn ‘Abdin al-Sulami said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The slain are of three types: (the first is) a believing man who fought with his life and his wealth for the sake of Allaah, and when he met the enemy he fought them until he was killed. That is the proud martyr who resides in the tent of Allaah beneath His Throne; the Prophets are no better than him except by virtue of their being Prophets. (The second is) a believing man who committed some sins, but he fought with his life and his wealth for the sake of Allaah, and when he met the enemy he fought until he was killed. His sins are erased, for the sword erases sins, and he will be admitted through whichever of the gates of Paradise he wishes, for it has eight gates, and some of them are better than others. (The third is) a hypocrite who strove with his life and his wealth, and when he met the enemy he fought for the sake of Allaah and was killed. He will be in Hell, for the sword does not erase hypocrisy.” (Narrated by Ahmad (17204). Its isnaad was classed as jayyid by al-Mundhiri in al-Targheeb wa’l-Tarheeb (2/208), and as hasan by al-Albaan in Saheeh al-Targheeb (1370). 

(c) It was narrated from ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Hubshi al-Khath’ami that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was asked: What type of jihad is best? He said: “The one who strives against the mushrikeen with his wealth and his life.” It was said: What kind of death is noblest? He said: “The one whose blood is shed and his horse is killed.” Narrated by Abu Dawood (1449) and al-Nasaa'i (2526); classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Targheeb (1318). 

(d) It was narrated from Jaabir (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The leader of the martyrs is Hamzah ibn ‘Abd al-Muttalib and a man who stood up before a tyrant and enjoined good and forbade evil, and he killed him.” Narrated by al-Haakim and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in al-Silsilah al-Saheehah (374).  

 With regard to the life of the martyrs with their Lord, it is the life of al-Barzakh, where their Lord honours them with the delights of Paradise, where their position varies according to their deeds and intentions in this world. 

Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): 

“Think not of those as dead who are killed in the way of Allaah. Nay, they are alive, with their Lord, and they have provision.

They rejoice in what Allaah has bestowed upon them of His Bounty and rejoice for the sake of those who have not yet joined them, but are left behind (not yet martyred) that on them no fear shall come, nor shall they grieve.

 They rejoice in a grace and a bounty from Allaah, and that Allaah will not waste the reward of the believers”

[Holy Qur’an Ch 3 (Aal ‘Imraan) Verses 169-171] 

“And say not of those who are killed in the way of Allaah, ‘They are dead.’ Nay, they are living, but you perceive (it) not”

[Holy Qur’an Ch 2(al-Baqarah) Verse 154] 

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen said in his Tafseer (explanation)of Soorat al-Baqarah (Ch 2 Vesres 176, 177):

“What is meant is that they are alive with their Lord, as it says in the verse from Aal ‘Imraan, but it is the life of al-barzakh and we do not know how it is. They have no need for food, drink or air, hence Allaah says “but you perceive (it) not” i.e., you do not perceive that they are living, because it is the life of al-barzakh in the unseen. If Allaah had not told us about it we would have no knowledge of it. 

Another thing we learn from the verse is that the martyrs are alive, but it is the life of al-barzakh which is nothing like life in this world, rather it is better and greater, but we do not know how it is.”

Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali (may Allaah have mercy on him) said, under the heading: ‘Chapter on the location of the souls of the dead in al-Barzakh’: 

As for the martyrs, most of the scholars are of the view that they are in Paradise. There are many ahaadeeth which speak of that. 

In Saheeh Muslim (1887) it is narrated that Masrooq said: We asked ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Mas’ood about this verse: “Think not of those as dead who are killed in the way of Allaah . Nay, they are alive, with their Lord, and they have provision” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:169]. He said: We also asked about that, and he (the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)) said: “Their souls are in the crops of green birds, which have lamps hanging from the Throne, and they roam freely wherever they want in Paradise, then they return to those lamps…” 

Imam Ahmad, Abu Dawood and al-Haakim narrated, in a report that was classed as hasan by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Targheeb (1379), from Sa’eed ibn Jubayr, that Ibn ‘Abbaas said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “When your brethren were slain at Uhud, your Lord put their souls in the crops of green birds that go to the rivers of Paradise and eat of its fruits, then they go back to lamps of gold that are hanging in the shade of the Throne. When they find their food and drink and abode they said: Who will convey to our brethren that we are alive in Paradise and receiving provision, so that they will not give up fighting or turn away from jihad? And Allaah said: I shall tell them about you. Then Allaah, may He be exalted, revealed the verse: ‘Think not of those as dead who are killed in the way of Allaah . Nay, they are alive, with their Lord, and they have provision’ [Ch 3(Aal ‘Imraan) V:169].” 

Al-Tirmidhi and al-Haakim narrated, in a report that was classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Targheeb (13762) from Ibn ‘Abbaas that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “I saw Ja’far ibn Abi Taalib as an angel flying in Paradise with the angels, with two wings.” Ahwaal al-Quboor (p. 92-104). 

With regard to asking the ruler for permission for jihad, If the kuffaar attack the Muslims, then jihad becomes an individual obligation (fard ‘ayn) in which case the permission of the ruler is no longer a condition. 

As for jihad with the aim of conquest and spreading Islam, the permission of the ruler is essential. 

 Islaam strictly Prohibits committing suicide.

People who perform suicide bombings commit suicide, and this necessitates entry into the Hell-Fire, and that this person will not be regarded as a Martyr.

 Activities of suicide like tying explosives to themselves and then approaching innocent people and detonating them amongst them,is a case of suicide. So whoever commits suicide will be considered eternally to Hell-Fire, remaining there forever, as occurs in the Hadeeth of the Prophet Muhammadh(peace and blessings of Allah be upon him).

" Whoever kills himself with an Iron weapon, then the Iron weapon will remain in his hand, and he will continuously stab himself in his belly with it in the Fire of Hell eternally, forever and ever "[ al-Bukhaaree no. 5778, al-Muslim no. 109]

It should be noted that the iron weapon here is merely a symbol which does not indicate that only people who kill themselves with iron weapons will go to Hell.

If a  person kills himself he has not benefited Islam, on the contrary he is degrading Islam by doing this. It’s even worse when he kills himself along with ten, or a hundred, or two hundred other people in the name of Islam. As this action will inbred hatred and bitterness in the hearts of the non Muslims towards Islam, it is clear that Allah Almighty will be displeased with such people.

It was reported in the Hadeeth of al-Miqdaam ibn Ma’di Karb that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said:

“The martyr (Shaheed) has seven blessings from Allah: he is forgiven from the moment his blood is first shed; he will be shown his place in Paradise; he will be spared the trial of the grave; and he will be secure on the Day of the Greatest Terror (the Day of Judgment); there will be placed on his head a crown of dignity, one ruby of which is better than this world and all that is in it; he will be married to seventy-two of al-Hoor al-‘iyn; and he will be permitted to intercede for seventy of his relatives.”[Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, who said it is a hasan hadeeth. Also narrated by Ibn Maajah in al-Sunan, by Ahmad, by ‘Abd al-Razzaaq in al-Musannaf, by al-Tabaraani in al-Kabeer, and by Sa’eed ibn Mansoor in al-Sunan]

As mentioned above those people who commit suicide are not considered as martyrs, rather, Paradise is forbidden for them and they will abide forever in Hell.

Ruling on jihad and kinds of jihad : http://islam-qa.com/en/ref/20214

Some of the rulings on jihad, degrees of martyrdom and the life of the martyrs after death : http://islam-qa.com/en/ref/71284

Riba (Interest/Usury)

The literal meaning of interest or Al-RIBA as it is used in the Arabic language means to excess or increase. In the Islamic terminology interest means effortless profit or that profit which comes free from compensation or that extra earning obtained that is free of exchange. Hazrat Shah Waliullah Dehlvi a great scholar and leader has given a very concise and precise definition of interest. He says,

"Riba` is a loan with the condition that the borrower will return to the lender more than and better than the quantity borrowed."

Interest In Pre-Islamic Times

Hafiz Ibn Hajr writes in his commentary of Sahih Bukhari (Fathul Bari):

"Imam Malik reports on the authority of Zaid Ibn Aslam that in the period of ignorance (pre-Islamic times) interest was changed according to the following scheme. One person had a right in the property of another person. It may have been a general right because of the amount lent or the price of something purchased or in any other form. A time was set when the claim would be settled. When the appointed time arrived the creditor would ask the debtor if he wanted to settle the claim or pay interest with an extension to the time. If the claim was settled then there was no increase in the payment. Otherwise the debtor would increase the amount payable and the creditor would extend the period further. (Vol. IV P.264)

Islam’s View Of Trade

Interest is not a subject without trade and commerce. Islam recognises trade and commerce not only as a lawful profession but also as a moral duty. Islam has laid down a complete set of rules for trade. The reason for these rules is to specify what halal earning is. There are many traditions of Prophet Muhammadh (peace and blessings of God be upon him)  concerning halal provision that can also be found in the books containing the traditions of the prophet (pbuh). Actually, Islam has encouraged men to earn their own provision and to provide it to their families. The condition is that the earning has to be according to the conditions set by the Shari’ah (Islamic Law). Any sort of transaction that does not correspond to the rules of trade will not be allowed. These rules can be found under the heading of trade in the books of jurisprudence. Interest is amongst those conditions which all dealings must be free from.

How Is Interest Illegal

The definition of interest has already been mentioned as well as that it is prohibited. If we explore the Qur’an we will come across several places where Allah has mentioned interest.

These translations are from Abdullah Yusuf Ali (May God reward him in abundance)

In Surah Al-baqarah (Chapter 2) Verse no.275, God says:

“Those who devour usury will not stand except as stand one whom the Evil one by his touch Hath driven to madness. That is because they say: "Trade is like usury," but Allah hath permitted trade and forbidden usury. Those who after receiving direction from their Lord, desist, shall be pardoned for the past; their case is for Allah (to judge); but those who repeat (The offence) are companions of the Fire: They will abide therein (for ever).” 

And in the next verse 276 he states:

“Allah will deprive usury of all blessing, but will give increase for deeds of charity: For He loveth not creatures ungrateful and wicked.”

Two verses later in verse 278 he says:

“O ye who believe! Fear Allah, and give up what remains of your demand for usury, if ye are indeed believers.”

And in verse 279he says:

“If ye do it not, Take notice of war from Allah and His Messenger. But if ye turn back, ye shall have your capital sums: Deal not unjustly, and ye shall not be dealt with unjustly.”

Also in Surah Aal-Imran, (Chapter 3) Verse no.130 Allah says,

“O ye who believe! Devour not usury, doubled and multiplied; but fear Allah. that ye may (really) prosper.”

And in Surah Al-Nisaa (Chapter 4) Allah states in Verse no.161,

“That they took usury, though they were forbidden; and that they devoured men's substance wrongfully;- we have prepared for those among them who reject faith a grievous punishment.”

And in Surah Al-Room,(Chapter 30) Verse no.39 Allah mentions

“That which ye lay out for increase through the property of (other) people, will have no increase with Allah. but that which ye lay out for charity, seeking the Countenance of Allah, (will increase): it is these who will get a recompense multiplied.”

Ahaadith (traditions of the Prophet Muhammadh -pbuh) Concerning Interest

These ahaadith have been taken from Mishkat-ul-Masabih under the section of interest and the English translation has been taken from its English version written by Al Hajj Moulana Fazl Karim (218-227 vol. II)
   

Hazrat Jabir (May Allah bless his soul) reported that the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) cursed the devourer of usury, its payer, its scribe and its two witnesses. He also said that they were equal (in sin). (Narrated by Muslim)

Hazrat Abu Hurairah (May Allah bless his soul) reported that the Holy Prophet (pbuh)said: A time will certainly come over the people when none will remain who will not devour usury. If he does not devour it, its vapour will overtake him. (Narrated by Ahmed, Abu Dawood, Nisai,and  Ibn Majah.)

Hazrat Abu Hurairah  also reported that the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said : Usury has got seventy divisions. The easiest division of them is a man marrying his mother.(Narrated by Ibn Majah)

Hazrat Abu Hurairah also reported that the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said: I came across some people in the night in which I was taken to the heavens.(Mi’raj) Their stomachs were like houses wherein there were serpents, which could be seen from the front of their stomachs. I asked: O Gabriel! Who are these people? He replied these are those who devoured usury. (Narrated by Ahmed and Ibn Majah)

Hazrat Ali (4th Caliph of Islam - May the blessings of Allah be with him) reported that he heard the Messenger of Allah (pbuh)  cursing the devourer of usury, its giver, its scribe and one who refuses to give Zakat (Alms tax :Islamic charity)and he used to forbid mourning for them.(Narrated by Nisai)

Hazrat Umar bin Al-Khattab (2nd Caliph of Islam - May the blessings of Allah be with him) reported: the last of what was revealed was the verse of usury. The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) was taken and he had not explained it to us. So, give up usury and doubt.  (Narrated by Ibn Majah and Darimi)

Hazrat Abdullah bin Hanzalah (who was washed by the angels) reported that the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said: A dirham of usury that a man devours and he knows is greater than 36 fornications. (Narrated by Ahmed and  Darqutni)

Baihaqi reported from Ibn Abbas (May Allah bless his soul in Shuabul Iman. He added and said: (as for) one whose flesh has grown out of unlawful food, the fire is more suitable for him.

After narrating all these verses from the Qur’an and relating all the Ahaadith it is apparent to us that interest could never be legal and halal. How could anybody even take the time out to think about a matter in which Allah has declared war on the user and his Beloved Prophet sallallahu alaihe wasallm (pbuh) has cursed him? As sensible people we can understand that what our creator has chosen for us is for our own prosperity only.

Interest From A Jurisprudical View

We should deeply thank the Sahaabah – Companions of the Prophet (pbuh) (May the blessings of God be upon all of them) in their efforts to spread the religion as they learnt it from the Prophet (pbuh) Then when the religion started to spread vastly Allah brought about four imams who described the religion in general terms in order to make the common public understand.

They spent their lives trying to put the whole religion in a collective form through the Qur’an and the Ahaadith and the concise decisions of the Sahaabah. In the case of interest, all four imams established a general rule mainly concentrating on this statement made by the Prophet (pbuh)

Hazrat Al-Khudri (May Allah bless his soul) reported that the Prophet (pbuh) said: Gold in exchange for gold, silver in exchange for silver, wheat in exchange for wheat, barley in exchange for barley, dates in exchange for dates, salt in exchange for salt is in the same category and (should be exchanged) hand to hand, so who ever adds or demands increase he has practised usury. The giver and taker are the same.

Out of the four imams, Imam Abu Hanifah (May God be pleased with him) has ruled that if the measurement system (volumetric or in compounds) is the same and the two items are in the same category, then they should be sold in the same amount and direct not in credit otherwise interest will be found.

Imam Shaf’ee (May God be pleased with him) says that if the items are valuable and could be considered food then there is the chance of interest. Imam Malik (May God be pleased with him) says that if the items are valuable and are edible then interest is a subject.

Advice

As you may have realised, giving and taking interest is unlawful. Unfortunately, the basis of many of the transactions (especially in banking and insurance), personal or business involve interest. Thus it is becoming increasingly difficult for the majority of the Muslims, especially those who are comercially orientated to abstain from dealings involving interest. Many of us purchase items on ‘Buy now, Pay later' schemes thinking that this sort of scheme is of great benefit to us. Sadly, what we fail to recognize at the time of purchasing this ‘supposed bargain' is the fact that if we fail to pay the required amount at the due time, we will be liable to pay interest.

Now, suppose a couple of months ago, we were purchased an item on a ‘Pay later' scheme in which there was no question about us keeping upto date with payments, however due to a change in our financial situation, we have failed to pay the required amount, and are paying interest now as a result. We would have joined a group of those unfortunate people who have been cursed by the Prophet(pbuh)

Our advice to anyone who is involved in any form of interest is that the individual should minimise his expenditure in these dealings and if possible abstain completely from these transactions. In any case, every individual should continue to seek Allah’s forgiveness. The philosophy shows that a person who takes interest does not gain anything in reality but through the explanation of the Qur’an verse,

" Allah decreases interest and increases sadqah (charity)"

That in reality the money just goes to waste and the person does not even realize it and a person who gives money in the path of Allah, in whatever form it may be, actually gains although in reality it seems as though he is loosing out.

Every person should take all necessary precautions in their financial and social dealings. If a person neglects in keeping a watchful eye on financial dealings, this negligence will slowly spread to other aspects of religion. This will have a very detrimental effect on religious matters.

The dealings of usury and interest are not only a disadvantage to us in this world but will also be a source of great discomfort and pain for us in the hereafter. The Prophet Sallallahu Alayhi Wassallam (pbuh) has informed us about the punishment that awaits those people who deal with interest:

The summary of the matter is that interest is hazardous and should be abstained from in all manners. If anybody has a case they wish to solve then they should contact a Mufti (a learned scholar) and present their problem as it is.

I conclude by asking you my dear reader, is it really worth destroying the eternal life of the hereafter, just so that we may have a few more comforts in a life which can come to an end any moment?

Adapted from an article written by a Student of Darul-Uloom, Bury, U.K.