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Islam: Questions And Answers - Inviting Others to Islam

by Muhammad Saed Abdul-Rahman

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Inviting Others to Islam

Chapter 2

Means of Da'wah

44594: Advice to one who slanders his Muslim brothers and accuses them without any proof

Question:

Our Shaykh, I love you for the sake of Allaah and I hope that you can tell me how to silence those who slander the scholars. There are people who accuse you of being extreme in labeling others as kaafirs and of Qutbi (a group that claims to base its ideas on the writings of Sayyid Qutb) _ as they call it. What is your answer? Please note that I am _ as Allaah knows _ one of those who love you for the sake of Allaah.


Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

May Allaah love you, for Whose sake you love us, and may He bring us together in His mercy on the Day whereon neither wealth nor sons will avail, except him who brings to Allaah a clean heart (cf. al-Shu'ara' 26:89).

With regard to what you have said in your question, we advise you to keep away from everyone who speaks about your Muslim brothers or slanders them, or accuses them and casts aspersion on their intentions. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "O you who have spoken the words of faith but faith has not entered your hearts! Do not backbite about the Muslims or seek our their faults, for whoever seeks out their faults, Allaah will seek out his faults even if he is his house." Narrated by Abu Dawood, no. 4880; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani.

It is also necessary for you to advise these people to fear Allaah and refrain using such labels and names that divide the Muslims. With regard to offering advice and correcting mistakes, this should not be done by means of exposing people's faults or casting aspersions on their intentions etc.

With regard to the issue of takfeer (labeling people as kaafirs), this is subject to further discussion. Describing as a kaafir one who has been described as such by Allaah or by His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) is obligatory. Allaah has described some groups as being kaafirs in His Book, as when He says (interpretation of the meaning):

"Surely, disbelievers are those who said: `Allaah is the third of the three (in a Trinity)'"

[al-Maa'idah 5:73]

"Surely, in disbelief are they who say that Allaah is the Messiah, son of Maryam (Mary)"

[al-Maa'idah 5:17]

But it is haraam to label as a kaafir someone whom Allaah and His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) did not label as such.

Shaykh Ibn `Uthaymeen (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: Just as it is not permissible to label a specific person as a kaafir unless the conditions of labeling someone as such have been met in his case, so too we should not shy away from labeling as kaafirs those whom Allaah and His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) have labeled as such. But we must differentiate between what is specific and what is general.

Sharh Kitaab al-Tawheed, 2/281.

See also question no. 21576.

And Allaah knows best.

Moreover, everyone who levels an accusation against another person must provide proof:

"Say (O Muhammad), Produce your proof if you are truthful"

[al-Baqarah 2:111]

"Since they produce not witnesses, they are the liars in the sight of Allaah"

[al-Noor 24:13]

This problem is widespread among some of those who claim to be religiously-guided, may Allaah guide them, for they make accusations against people on grounds that are not regarded as something worthy of criticism in sharee'ah or that do not undermine a person's religious commitment.

Then they do not bring any proof of that, and they follow their own whims and desires, because it is human nature to appoint oneself as judge, praising and condemning on a whim.

We must go against the whims and desires of our own selves and measure people by the criteria set out in Islam; we should make mention of their good points and advise them with regard to their mistakes.

And Allaah is the Source of strength.

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11266: Ruling on taking sinners as friends

Question:

Is it permissable for a man who practice islam to talk, be friendly, and take a person who is muslim by name alone who drinks alcohol and does not pray as a friend and a helper? what is the ruling regarding taking those who do not practice their religion and go directly agains allah's commandments as friends and helpers?.


Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

Sins are of two types:

1 _ Those which constitute kufr and put a person beyond the pale of Islam _ we seek refuge with Allaah. The one who commits such sins is a kaafir who is beyond the pale of Islam if the conditions for describing him as a kaafir are met and there are no impediments to doing so _ such as one who associates others in worship with Allaah, or does not pray at all, and so on.

2 _ Sins which do not constitute kufr and do not put a person beyond the pale of Islam, but the one who does them is described as faasiq (rebellious evildoer) and a believer who is lacking in faith, such as zina (illicit sexual relationships), drinking alcohol and so on, if he does not regard these actions as permissible. If he does regard them as permissible, then this puts him beyond the pale of Islam, if the conditions for describing him as a kaafir are met and there are no impediments to doing so. The belief of Ahl al-Sunnah wa'l-Jamaa'ah and the consensus of the salaf is that a person who commits a major sin but does not regard it as permissible is not to be regarded as a kaafir. For more information see the answer to question no. 9924.

Once this is understood, then the ruling on making friends with people is based on the above.

It is not permissible to take kaafirs as close friends, or to mix with them and feel friendly towards them, or to live amongst them and take them as friends, or to love them, or to prefer them over the believers and so on. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"You (O Muhammad) will not find any people who believe in Allaah and the Last Day, making friendship with those who oppose Allaah and His Messenger (Muhammad), even though they were their fathers or their sons or their brothers or their kindred (people). For such He has written Faith in their hearts, and strengthened them with Rooh (proofs, light and true guidance) from Himself. And He will admit them to Gardens (Paradise) under which rivers flow, to dwell therein (forever). Allaah is pleased with them, and they with Him. They are the party of Allaah. Verily, it is the party of Allaah that will be the successful"

[al-Mujaadilah 58:22]

But we are obliged to treat them fairly and justly, and not wrong them or commit acts of aggression against them with no shar'i reason. It is permissible to interact with them by buying, selling, lending, etc. It is narrated in saheeh reports that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) borrowed a weapon from Safwaan ibn Umayyah, and that he bought food from the Jews.

With regard to sinning Muslims, we should love them according to the faith that they have, and hate them according to the sins and immoral actions they commit, but being friends with them goes against the words of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): "The likeness of a good companion and a bad companion is that of a perfume seller and one who works the bellows. With the perfume seller, either he will give you something or you will buy something from him, or you will notice a good smell from him, but with the one who works the bellows, either he will burn your clothes or you notice a bad smell from him." Narrated by Muslim, no. 2628.

But if the intention behind sitting with this person is to soften his heart and call him to Allaah, and guide him to the right path, then this is a virtuous action, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"And who is better in speech than he who [says: "My Lord is Allaah (believes in His Oneness)," and then stands firm (acts upon His Order), and] invites (men) to Allaah's (Islamic Monotheism), and does righteous deeds"

[Fussilat 41:33]

But this is subject to the condition that he should not have any effect on you or cause you any harm when you are seeking good.

Based on the above, if the person you are asking about does not pray at all, then he is a kaafir, because the most correct scholarly view, which is the view of the salaf, if that the one who does not pray is a kaafir in the sense of major kufr, and is beyond the pale of Islam. For more information on the evidence on that, please see questions no. 2182, 5208, 6035, 33007, 10094. Based on this, it is not permissible to befriend him or be close to him, rather he should be called to repent to Allaah and pray regularly. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"But if they repent [by rejecting Shirk (polytheism) and accept Islamic Monotheism], perform As-Salaah (Iqaamat-as-Salaah) and give Zakaah, then they are your brethren in religion"

[al-Tawbah 9:11]

It should be noted that keeping company with good people is something enjoined by our Lord, may He be exalted, and our Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), as mentioned in the hadeeth quoted above. And Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"O you who believe! Fear Allaah, and be with those who are true (in words and deeds)"

[al-Tawbah 9:119]

"And keep yourself (O Muhammad) patiently with those who call on their Lord (i.e. your companions who remember their Lord with glorification, praising in prayers, and other righteous deeds) morning and afternoon, seeking His Face"

[al-Kahf 18:28]

And Allaah knows best.

For more information see Fataawa al-Shaykh Ibn `Uthaymeen, 3/31.

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22154: How to serve Islam

Question:

I want to serve my religion, what should I do?


Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

1 _ You can serve Islam by having a correct resolve and sincere intention, for Allaah blesses an action that is done sincerely for His sake alone, even if it is little. Sincere devotion, if it becomes a constant feature of acts of worship and obedience, even if they are small or simple in the sight of the one who does them, makes them great in the sight of Allaah, so Allaah will forgive him for major sins because of that, as it says in the hadeeth about the piece of paper on which is written La ilaaha ill-Allaah.

2 _ You can serve Islam by knowing the right way and following it. The Straight Path means following the way of our Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) with regard to the principles, ways and means of da'wah and being patient in adhering to that, whilst treating people with kindness and compassion, because they are suffering from the disease of sin.

3 _ You can serve Islam by making the most of all available means and circumstances. This is a great blessing, for all means are permissible except those which have been forbidden by Allaah. So we call people to Allaah by all means prescribed in sharee'ah, whilst paying attention to the evidence of sharee'ah and correct etiquette.

4 _ You can serve Islam by giving precedence to that which is in the interests of Islam over your own whims and desires. Serving this religion means giving what is most precious of your money, effort, time, thought, etc. Have you not seen those who love sport (football or soccer) for example, how they devote their efforts, time and money to their beloved sport? But more is expected of you than that.

5 _ You can serve Islam by following in the footsteps of the scholars, daa'iyahs and reformers, having patience as your companion and putting up with tiredness and exhaustion. For you are doing a great act of worship which is the mission of the Prophets and Messengers and those who follow in their footsteps.

6 _ You can serve Islam by shunning laziness, weakness and apathy, for this religion is the religion of resolve, ambition and courage, and its call is only harmed by laziness or reckless ignorance.

7 _ You can serve Islam by connecting your heart to Allaah and reciting a lot of du'aa' and prayers for forgiveness, and persisting in reading Qur'aan. There is nothing that is more effective in cleansing the heart and refreshing the soul, and making it active and energetic so that it will not get tired or bored, than remembering Allaah much and drawing nearer to Him by means of obeying Him and doing naafil (supererogatory) acts of worship.

8 _ You can serve Islam by forming bonds with scholars who practise what they preach, those who are known to be sincere and who are well established in jihad and supporting this religion. Marching under their banner and following their lead is very good and beneficial.

9 _ You can serve Islam by organizing your time on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. There are actions which should be done every day, others which should be done every week, and others which should be done every month or every year.

For example, you should make da'wah to those whom you see every day and to those whom you see once a week. You may have a family gathering once a month, and there may be annual conferences, or journeys for Hajj or `Umrah once a year, and so on.

10 _ You can serve Islam by paying it some attention and giving it some of your time, thoughts and money, and making it your main concern. So when you stand up, it is for Islam; when you walk, it is for Islam; when you think, it is for Islam; when you give, it is for Islam; when you sit, it is for Islam.

11 _ you can serve Islam by hastening to contribute every time you find an opportunity to do good. Do not hesitate or delay or put it off.

From Kayfa akhdim al-Islam by `Abd al-Malik al-Qaasim, p. 18. (www.islam-qa.com)

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40040: Her husband is threatening to divorce her if she does not watch pornographic movies with him

Question:

A woman's husband tries to force her to watch pornographic movies with her and she refuses to do that and tries to stop him; she told him to choose between her and these movies and he chose the movies instead of her, What should she do _ when he has threatened to divorce her if she does not watch these movies with him? What advice do you give her? Should she watch them or get a divorce _ especially since she has three children with him?.


Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

Allaah has commanded the Muslim to protect himself and his family from the Fire. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"O you who believe! Ward off yourselves and your families against a Fire (Hell) whose fuel is men and stones, over which are (appointed) angels stern (and) severe, who disobey not, (from executing) the Commands they receive from Allaah, but do that which they are commanded"

[al-Tahreem 66:6]

Allaah has put the wife and children under the care and protection of the husband, and he will be asked about them on the Day of Resurrection. It was narrated from Ibn `Umar that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "Each of you is a shepherd and each of you is responsible for his flock. The ruler is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock; the man is the shepherd of his family members and is responsible for them; the woman is the shepherd of her husband's house and children and is responsible for them; the slave is the shepherd of his master's wealth and is responsible for it. Each of you is a shepherd and each of you is responsible for his flock."

Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 853; Muslim, 1829.

Allaah has warned those who betray this trust and do not protect their families as required, that they will be denied Paradise. It was narrated that Ma'qal ibn Yassaar said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "There is no person whom Allaah appoints in charge of some flock and he is not sincere towards them, but he will not smell the fragrance of Paradise."

Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 6731; Muslim, 142.

What this husband is doing, watching pornographic movies, is an evil and a great sin. It is not permissible for him to do that, let alone force someone else to do it.

If the husband calls his wife to watch these movies, it is not permissible for her to obey him, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "There is no obedience if it involves disobeying Allaah, rather obedience is only with regard to that which is right and proper." Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 7257; Muslim, 1840.

The husband's threat of divorce does not count as a legitimate excuse for her, and is not regarded as her being forced to do it. Rather she should advise him in the way that is better. If he responds and gives up the evil that he is doing, this is something good that he is doing for himself, and she will be rewarded for that. If he refuses to respond to the command of Allaah to lower the gaze and avoid looking at haraam things, then it is not permissible for her to obey him in committing sin, and she should not trust him with regard to herself or her children, and Allaah will compensate her with someone better than him, in sha Allaah.

In the answer to question no. 12301 there is a statement of the shar'i ruling on watching these movies.

In the answer to question no. 7669 there is a description of ways of advising and guiding this husband.

If the husband does not pray, it is not permissible for the wife to hesitate in asking for an annulment of the marriage. We have discussed the ruling on staying with a husband who does not pray in the answer to question no. 4501 and 5281.

And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com)

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27170: Is it permissible to offer money to a person on the condition that he does a good deed?

Question:

Is it permissible to offer money to a person on the condition that he does a good deed ? For example, can I say to a Muslim uncle, I will give you 500 Dirhams if you grow and keep a beard ?.

Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

It seems that there is nothing wrong with doing that. Allaah has enjoined certain actions upon His slaves, and has promised a great reward in this world for doing them, so as to encourage people to do them. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"And whosoever fears Allaah and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty).

And He will provide him from (sources) he never could imagine"

[al-Talaaq 65:2-3]

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "Whoever would like his provision in this world to be increased and his life span to be extended, let him uphold the ties of kinship." Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 5986; Muslim, 2557.

As a way of encouraging righteous deeds, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) gave permission for the one who killed a kaafir on the battelefield to take his spoils.

It was narrated that Abu Qutaadah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, during the year of Hunayn: "Whoever kills an enemy and has proof of that will have his spoils." Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 2973; Muslim, 1751.

"Spoils" here refers to the money, luggage, clothing and weapons that a fighter has with him.

And the scholars regarded it as permissible to offer prizes for memorizing soorahs from the Qur'aan or ahaadeeth, or for winning a contest of knowledge.

The scholars of the Standing Committee were asked:

What is the ruling on receiving prizes for Qur'aan memorization contests?

They replied:

There is nothing wrong with that, and there is no difference between men and women in this regard.

Fataawa al-Lajnah al-Daa'imah, 4/126

This has to do with giving and offering: it is permissible to offer and give money to one who lets his beard grow or does other things required by sharee'ah.

But with regard to the one who takes that money: if he let his beard grow in order to take the prize, then he will not be rewarded for his action, but if the prize motivated him to fulfil the command of Allaah, or if he started because of the prize and then changed his intention after that and adhered to (following the ruling), then he will be rewarded for that in which his intention was sound, and it will not matter that at first he was doing it for the prize.

It was narrated from Anas that a man asked the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) for sheep between two mountains and he gave them to him, then he went to his people and said, "O my people, become Muslims, for by Allaah Muhammad gives generously and he does not fear poverty."

Anas said: People would become Muslim only for worldly gains, but as soon as they became Muslim Islam became dearer to them than this world and everything in it.

Narrated by Muslim, 2312.

Al-Nawawi said:

This is how it appears in most copies: "fa ma yuslim (as soon as [they] became Muslim)." In some copies it says "fa ma yumsi (before the day ended)." Both are correct. The first means that shortly after they became Muslim, Islam became dearer to them, i.e., at first they professed Islam for worldly purposes, with no sound intention in their hearts, then by the blessing of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and the light of Islam, their hearts were soon opened to true faith which took root in their hearts, and then Islam became dearer to them than this world and everything in it.

Sharh Muslim, 15/72, 73.

And Allaah knows best.

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39349: Mixing with the Tableeghi Jama'at and going out with them

Question:

Is it permissible to mix with the Tableeghi Jama'at in order to learn from them and do dhikr only?.


Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

The Tableeghi Jama'at (Jamaa'at al-Tableegh) is one of the da'wah groups that is striving to spread Islam and call people to it. It has played a good role in calling sinners and those who have deviated by spending time and money, and putting up with the difficulties of travelling etc.

But looking at some of the mistaken ideas and objectionable beliefs that have been quoted from some of the shaykhs of this group, some of the scholars have ruled that no one should go out with them except seekers of knowledge [taalib al-`ilm] who should go with the aim of teaching and guiding them.

Shaykh Ibn Baaz (may Allaah have mercy on him) was asked the following question: I went out with the Tableeghi Jamaa'at to India and Pakistan. We used to gather and pray in mosques in which there are graves, and I heard that prayers offered in mosques in which there are graves are invalid. What is your opinion on my prayers, and should I repeat them? What is the ruling on going out with them to these places?

He replied:

The Tableeghi Jama'ah does not have a clear idea on matters of `aqeedah, so it is not permissible for anyone to go out with them apart from the one who has knowledge and understanding of the correct `aqeedah followed by Ahl al-Sunnah wa'l-Jamaa'ah, so that he can teach them, advise them and cooperate with them for good purposes, because they are very active, but they need more knowledge and they need scholars who know about Tawheed and the Sunnah to teach them. May Allaah help us all to understand His religion properly and adhere to it steadfastly…

Majmoo' Fataawa al-Shaykh Ibn Baaz, 8/331

If the members of this group with whom you are in contact follow sound `aqeedah and have knowledge, then there is nothing wrong with your cooperating with them and attending their gatherings.

Shaykh Ibn Baaz (may Allaah have mercy on him) was asked:

We are living in the desert. Some of us have settled here and some are working to earn a halaal income. A group from the Tableeghi Jama'at came to us, some of whom we know personally and are sure that their intentions are sincere, but they are not scholars; and some of them are scholars who call us to go out to the villages around us, and say that we should spend so many days or weeks or months doing that. We have not seen anything wrong with the dhikr circles that they hold. Is it permissible to listen to them or to go out with them to the neighbouring villages or outside the Kingdom (Saudi Arabia)?

He replied:

If the people mentioned are known to have sound `aqeedah and knowledge and to be virtuous and good people, then there is nothing wrong with cooperating with them in calling people to Allaah and teaching and advising them, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"Help you one another in AlBirr and AtTaqwa (virtue, righteousness and piety)"

[al-Maa'idah 5:2]

And the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "Whoever guides others to do something good, he will have a reward like that of the one who does it."

May Allaah guide us all.

Majmoo' Fataawa al-Shaykh, 9/307

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3007: A list of brief Islamic sayings for sending to one's friends

Question:

On a daily basis I send out short enlightening phrases/verses from hadeeth to my friends via SMS (text message) to their cellular phones. I am in search of short phrases/quotes/verses which are islamic. Could you please send me a list or refer me to a website where I can find some. My friends have become accostomed to recieving their daily quote..etc and I have noticed that these quotes have had a positive influence on them and would like to continue doing this. Your response to my request will be appreciated

Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

May Allaah reward you for your great efforts to call your brothers to Allaah and advise and remind them by means of these brief Islamic quotations. There follows a list of some wise sayings and general rules, taken from the Qur'aan, Sunnah and words of Muslim wise men. Translations of the meanings of quotations from the Qur'aan appear in italics, quotations from saheeh ahaadeeth appear in quotation marks ("") and other quotations appear without any such marks.

And whenever you give your word, say the truth [al-An'aam 6:152]

And seek help in patience and prayer [al-Baqarah 2:45]

And speak good to people [al-Baqarah 2:83]

And fulfil the Covenant of Allaah when you have covenanted [al-Nahl 16:91]

Verily! Allaah commands that you should render back the trusts to those to whom they are due

[al-Nisa' 4:58]

And let not your hand be tied (like a miser) to your neck, nor stretch it forth to its utmost reach (like a spendthrift)

[al-Isra' 17:29]

Eat and drink, but waste not by extravagance [al-A'raaf 7:31]

And take a provision (with you) for the journey, but the best provision is al-taqwa (piety, righteousness)

[al-Baqarah 2:197]

And whosoever fears Allaah and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty)

[al-Talaaq 65:2]

And whosoever puts his trust in Allaah, then He will suffice him [al-Talaaq 65:3]

He who obeys the Messenger has indeed obeyed Allaah [al-Nisa' 4:80]

By no means shall you attain al-birr (righteousness) until you spend (in Allaah's cause) of that which you love

[Aal `Imraan 3:92]

Allaah (Alone) is Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of Affairs (for us)

[Aal `Imraan 3:171]

And walk not on the earth with conceit and arrogance

[al-Isra' 17:37]

And turn not your face away from men with pride [Luqmaan 31:18]

And be moderate (or show no arrogance) in your walking, and lower your voice

[Luqmaan 31:19]

And give not a thing in order to have more (or consider not your deeds of obedience to Allaah as a favour to Allaah)

[al-Muddaththir 74:6]

"Pay attention to Allaah and He will pay attention to you."

"If you feel no shame, then do as you wish."

"Make sure your food is good (halaal and bought with halaal earnings), and you will be one whose prayers are answered."

"Fear Allaah wherever you may be."

"Follow up a bad deed with a good deed, to cancel it out."

"Mix with people with a good attitude."

"Keep away from prohibited things and you will be the best of worshippers."

"Be content with what Allaah has given you, and you will be the richest of people."

"Love for other people what you love for yourself."

"Do not laugh too much, for excessive laughter deadens the heart."

"Wrongdoing will be multiple darkness on the Day of Resurrection."

"Fear Allaah and treat all your children fairly."

"Fear the Fire, even if by giving half a date (in charity)."

"Fear the prayer of the oppressed."

"The thing that weighs most heavily in the balance (of good deeds) is a good attitude."

"Deliberation is from Allaah, haste is from Shaytaan."

"The less your wealth, the less you will be called to account for."

"Do not become angry, and Paradise will be yours."

"The most beloved of deeds to Allaah is the one that is continuous, even if it is little."

"The most beloved of places to Allaah are the mosques."

"The most hated of places to Allaah are the marketplaces."

"The most beloved of food to Allaah is that which is touched by many hands (i.e., shared among many people)."

"The most beloved of speech to Allaah is that a person should say, `Subhaan Allaah wa bi hamdih (Glory and praise be to Allaah)'."

"The most beloved of people to Allaah is the one who is most helpful."

"The most beloved deed to Allaah is making a Muslim happy."

"Whoever restrains his anger, Allaah will conceal his faults."

"A bad attitude spoils a good deed just as vinegar spoils honey."

"The most beloved of people to Allaah are those who have the best attitudes."

"Beware of this world, for it is sweet and tempting."

"Control your tongue."

"Trim your moustaches and let your beards grow."

"Give back the things you have been entrusted with to the person who entrusted them to you."

"Do not betray the one who betrays you."

"Pray to Allaah and be confident of a response."

"Cheer people up, do not put them off."

"Make things easy for people, not difficult."

"Eat with your right hand and eat from what is in front of you."

"If Allaah gives you wealth, let the blessing of Allaah be seen on you."

"If someone who is distinguished among his own people comes to you, then honour him."

"If one with whose religion and character you are pleased comes to you (to seek your daughter's hand in marriage), then marry (your daughter) to him."

"If Allaah wills good to the people of a household, He guides them to be gentle."

"If you do something bad, follow it by doing something good."

"If you feel uncomfortable about something, then leave it alone."

"If you judge (between people), then judge fairly."

"If you enter a house, greet the inhabitants with salaam."

"If you are reminded of Allaah, stop what you are doing (of sin)."

"If Allaah sends you some provision without you looking forward to it or asking others for it, then take it."

"If you ask Allaah for anything, then ask Him for al-Firdaws (the highest level of Paradise)."

"If your good deeds please you and your bad deeds upset you, then you are a mu'min (believer)."

"If you hear the call to prayer, then respond to the one who is calling you to Allaah."

"If you hear the call to prayer, then say something like the muezzin says."

"If any one of you becomes angry, let him keep silent."

"If a man becomes angry and says `A'oodhu Billaah (I seek refuge with Allaah),' his anger will cease."

"If a man says `Ya seedi (sir)' to a munaafiq (hypocrite), he earns the wrath of his Lord."

"When you stand up to pray, pray as if it is your last prayer."

"When you get dressed and when you do wudoo', start on the right."

"When any one of you meets his brother, let him greet him with salaam."

"Remember death when you are praying."

"Show mercy towards those who are on earth so that the One Who is in heaven will show mercy to you."

"Renounce pleasure in worldly things and Allaah will love you."

"Show disinterest in what people have and people will love you."

"Feel properly shy and modest before Allaah."

Protect "the head and what does through it (thoughts and ideas)."

Protect "the stomach and what goes into it."

"Seek help in whatever you do by being discreet."

"Everyone who is given a blessing will be envied."

"No one can keep their wudoo' except a believer."

"The worst thief among people is the one who steals from his prayer, by not doing rukoo' and sujood properly."

"Intercede and you will be rewarded."

"The most grateful of people to Allaah are those who are most grateful to other people."

The trouble with beauty is feelings of superiority.

The trouble with generosity is extravagance.

The trouble with noble descent is pride.

The trouble with knowledge is forgetfulness.

"Give to the one who denied you."

"Uphold ties with the one who cuts you off."

"Forgive the one who does you wrong."

May Allaah have mercy on the person who said "Good" and was rewarded or who remained silent and was safe.

Wine is the key to all evil.

The one who is more daring in giving fatwas is more deserving of Hell.

Love the poor and mix with them.

It is better to err in forgiving than to err in punishment.

Do not judge between people when you are angry.

If you want to count the faults of anyone else, count your own faults instead.

If you commit a sin, say "Astaghfir-Allaah (I ask Allaah for forgiveness)."

If you are given a blessing, say, "Al-Hamdu Lillaah (praise be to Allaah)."

If some disaster befalls you, say, "Innaa Lillaahi wa innaa ilayhi raaji'oon (Truly, to Allaah we belong and truly, to Him we shall return)."

Seek rizq (provision) by giving charity

"Give food to others and speak good."

"Seek a response to du'aa's when the iqaamah for prayer is given and when rain is falling."

The people with the longest necks on the Day of Resurrection will be the muezzins.

"Worship Allaah as if you see Him."

"The most helpless of people are those who cannot make du'aa'."

"The most miserly of people are those who are stingy with their salaams (i.e., do not greet others)."

"Pay the hired worker his wages before his sweat dries."

"Tie up (your camel) [i.e., take the necessary precautions], and put your trust in Allaah."

"Make the most of your life before your death."

Make the most of "your health before your sickness."

Make the most of "your free time before you become busy."

Make the most of "your wealth before you become poor."

Make the most of "your youth before you become old."

"The best of dhikr is `La ilaaha ill-Allaah.'"

"The best of sadaqah (charity) is that given by one who has little."

"The upper hand (the one that gives) is better than the lower hand (the one that takes)."

The best of earnings is a good sale.

"The best of the believers is one who is best in attitude."

"The best of the muhaajireen is the one who forsakes (hajara) that which Allaah has prohibited."

"The best type of jihaad is the jihaad of the one who strives against his own self (jihaad al-nafs) for the sake of Allaah."

"Read the Qur'aan throughout every month."

"Read the Qur'aan, for it will come and intercede for its readers on the Day of Resurrection."

"Pray for Allaah to keep you safe and sound."

"Most of the sins committed by the son of Adam are sins of the tongue."

"Repeat often `Laa hawla wa laa quwwata illa billaah (there is no power or strength except with Allaah)', for it is from the treasure of Paradise."

"Always remember the destroyer of joy (physical pleasure): death."

"Lower your gaze and guard your private parts."

"There is no goodness in the one who is not friendly or likeable."

"Stay with her (the mother), for Paradise is under her feet."

"Keep saying `Yaa Dhaa'l-jalaali wa'l-ikraam (O Possessor of Glory and Honour)'" i.e., keep repeating it persistently.

"Islam cancels out what came before it (of sins)."

"Every bid'ah (innovation) is a going astray and every going astray will end in Hell."

"Control your tongue, let your house be enough for you, and weep for your sins."

"(Take care of) your mother, then your mother, then your mother, then your father, then other relatives in order of closeness."

"Feed the poor and pat the head of the orphan (i.e., show compassion)."

"The one who points the way to good deeds is like the one who does them."

This is a list of useful sayings and general rules, which we ask Allaah to make of benefit to people. When you have finished sending them out, if you would like more, just let us know so that we can compile some more. And Allaah is the Source of strength.

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Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com)

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12913: Advice for daa'iyahs travelling abroad

Question:

We are young men who are travelling to the west to call people to Allaah. We hope that you could give us some advice that will help us during our trip. May Allaah preserve you and take care of you.


Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

Calling people to Allaah is one of the most essential duties, and it is the way of the Prophets and Messengers and their followers, namely the scholars, daa'iyahs and reformers. Hoping that you will be able to fulfil the purpose of your da'wah trip and make the most of your precious time with which you seek to earn reward from Allaah, we offer you the following advice:

1 _ Fear Allaah (taqwa) and be aware that He is watching you in secret and in public. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "Fear Allaah wherever you may be…" (narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 1910; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Tirmidhi, 1618). Fearing Allaah is the main thing, and it is the means of being granted strength in this world and reward in the Hereafter. And seek reward with Allaah and have sincerity of intention towards Allaah in all that you say and do. "Actions are but by intentions and every man shall have but that which he intended." (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1; Muslim, 3530). These are things which will help the daa'iyah and make his actions blessed, just as fearing Allaah is the main thing, and it is the means of being granted strength in this world and reward in the Hereafter.

2 _ Be a good example in your words, appearance, eating and sleeping. In all of that, follow the example of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) in his words and actions.

3 _ Strive to lower your gaze, especially in countries where display of women's charms is prevalent and there is no veiling.

4 _ It is preferable to wear Arabic clothing because that serves many interests. It is not preferable to wear European clothing. With regard to what is said about the dangers of wearing Arabic clothing abroad, these are merely rumours and have no basis in reality. One may take off the headcover and wear only the cap if necessary.

5 _ The siwaak is one of the Sunnahs of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and it is rare in most countries, so it is a gift which will be appreciated by many Muslims.

6 _ Use your hand-luggage for clothes, because it is possible that luggage may be lost in those countries. This also frees up room in your suitcases for the books you will need. Change your money into dollars so that you will have it available to spend during your trip.

7 _ Take all the necessary precautions before travelling, such as vaccinations against the diseases that are prevalent in the countries to which you are travelling. Take the yellow international vaccination card with you.

8 _ Take all the addresses that you will need with you, such as the addresses of the embassies of some Arab and Muslim countries, and the addresses of well known and trustworthy Islamic centers and organizations.

Beware of giving the impression to the Muslims with whom you mix that you have come to offer them material help, because this opens the door to requests for help and personal demands. Indeed, some people may think that you have a lot of money with you and will lie in wait to do you harm. But this does not mean that you cannot take some zakaah and charity with you, to give to needy people once you are sure of their need, but this must be done with caution and secretly.

9 _ Do not indulge in unnecessary talk, and beware of referring to matters of marriage, even in a joking manner, especially with interpreters. There have been unfortunate cases where some daa'iyahs got married at the beginning of their trips and got divorced at the end, which has led to tarnishing of the reputation of the daa'iayahs and neglect of children and wives.

10 _ Equip yourself with the following:

· A pocket-sized copy of the Qur'aan, preferably with a translation of the meanings and footnotes describing the reasons for revelation.

· A book or two about `aqeedah (beliefs, doctrines), especially Tawheed (Divine Oneness) and refutation of misguided groups such as the Sufi tareeqahs.

· One or two books on the fiqh of worship, especially the fiqh of tahaarah (purity), prayer and fasting.

· Riyaadh al-Saaliheen by Imam al-Nawawi, which is a comprehensive resource, especially which regard to the fiqh of tahaarah and fasting.

· Fataawa al-Lajnah al-Daa'imah (fatwas of the Standing Committee)

· A selection of lessons and lectures recorded on tapes, so that one may make use of them especially during long car journeys.

· Keep with you a compass for determining the direction of the Qiblah and an alarm clock. It is preferable to buy a small tape recorder to record some words and interviews with local inhabitants when necessary, as well as da'wah meetings.

The things mentioned above will help the daa'iyah to prepare talks, lessons and lectures, and to answer questions. It will also help him to organize his time and make the most of it, in sha Allah.

11 _ Use your time as much as possible to benefit the da'wah, so that your visit will be a gain for the Muslims in that country. Make the most of every opportunity to do good and do not hesitate. That should be done by coordinating with the brothers in charge of organizing.

12 _ When discussing any topic or issue, pay attention to the fact that people may be lacking in knowledge or ignorant, and that there may be differences of madhhabs. Avoid indulging in controversial issues or stereotyping people, and try to explain the truth without criticizing individuals.

13 _ Wisdom is one of the most important basics in calling people to Allaah, especially when travelling. It is essential when prioritizing and outlining the steps to be taken to achieve one's goals, and it is also required when dealing with different types of people. It is wise to show due respect to people according to their status and to acknowledge their positions.

14 _ The daa'iyah will find that some questions of fiqh are posed to him during his trip, especially after giving lessons and talks. He should be deal with this matter in a proper way, replying to questions with evidence and quoting the words of the scholars, or else saying "I don't know". It was said that "the one who says `I don't know' has issued a fatwa (answered the question)." There is nothing to stop you delaying giving an answer until you have had time to review the matter.

15 _ It is better for the members of the group to take turns in giving lessons and talks. We do not think that only one person should take all the responsibility so that he becomes the mufti and khateeb and preacher, even if he is more capable, because one of the aims of these trips is to offer practical da'wah training to the daa'iyahs. These trips offer a valuable opportunity for training in preaching and giving khutbahs, especially for brothers who find it difficult to do that in their home country because there are so many scholars and seekers of knowledge there.

16 _ Getting to know about the situation of the Muslims, by finding out about the Islamic situation in general and the situation of local Islamic organizations and institutions, both official and non-official, in particular; writing down their addresses and reports on their activities; finding out about prominent and influential Muslim personalities in the society; attempting to win them over by visiting them and speaking to them nicely, so as to advance the cause of Islam and the Muslims. All of this must be done within the guidelines of sharee'ah. We must also try to find out about anti-Islamic activities in the region.

17 _ Strengthening ties with official religious bodies, by holding friendly meetings, giving gifts of Islamic books and audio materials, etc. This will make your work much easier for you and will be more effective in spreading the message.

Finally, we ask Allaah to give you strength and make you steadfast. Peace be upon you, and the mercy and blessings of Allaah.

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Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com)

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10219: Should we call people who do actions of Shirk to Tawheed only?

Question:

In the regions where there are shrines and people visit graves, should we call them to Tawheed only, or should we call them to Tawheed and all the matters of religion, such as doing the salaah properly and other matters? Does the same also apply in cases where people are not doing actions of Shirk but are committing some sins?


Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

When making da'wah, it is essential to pay attention to the circumstances of the people whom one is calling. If they have fallen into Shirk, then we should start by forbidding Shirk and enjoining Tawheed, then enjoin all the other matters of religion. Whoever is free of Shirk but is still committing some sins should be told not to commit those sins, and should be enjoined to repent.

From Fataawaa al-Lajnah al-Daa'imah, 12/245 (www.islam-qa.com)

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10261: With what should the daa'iyah start calling people to Islam?

Question:

The Islamic groups here differ as to what the daa'iyahs should start with _ should they start with the political aspects of Islam, or the beliefs, or the morals? What matters do you think we should start with?


Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

It is prescribed to start with `aqeedah (belief, tenets of faith), as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and all the Messengers did, and because of the hadeeth of Mu'aah, [in which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said to him, when he sent him to Yemen]:

"You will come to some of the people of the Book. When you reach them, invite them to testify that there is no god except Allaah and that Muhammad is His Messenger. If they obey you in that, then tell them that Allah has enjoined on them five prayers every day and night. If they obey you in that, then tell them that Allah has enjoined on them Sadaqah (i.e. Zakaah) to be taken from the rich among them and given to the poor among them. If they obey you in that, then exercise caution and do not take their best properties (as Zakaah). Fear the invocation (du'aa') of the oppressed person, for there is no barrier between his invocation and Allaah."

This is if the people who are being called are kaafirs (non-Muslims). If, however, the people who are being called are Muslims, then they should be taught about the aspects of their religion of which they are ignorant and where they are falling short, so you should start with the most important, then the next most important, and so on.

From Fataawaa al-Lajnah al-Daa'imah, 12/238 (www.islam-qa.com)

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10108: Is it permissible to go into churches for the purpose of da'wah, or just to look around?

Question:

There are many churches here. Is it permissible to go into them to hold discussions with the priests there? Is it permissible to go in just to look at them and see what the people do there?


Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

It is permissible for scholars and knowledgeable people to enter churches in order to call the people there to Islam. But we should not enter them just to look around, because there is no benefit in doing so, and there is the fear that the Muslim may be influenced by them, especially if he is ignorant about his own religion and cannot refute the confusion that they will direct towards him.

From Fataawaa al-Lajnah al-Daa'imah, 13/257 (www.islam-qa.com)

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10210: How can a woman engage in da'wah outside the home?

Question:

Can a woman do da'wah outside her home, and how?

Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

A woman can do da'wah inside her home, with her husband and mahrams, men and women alike. She can also do da'wah outside the home, to other women, so long as this does not involve travelling without her husband or mahram, and there is no fear of fitnah (temptation), and this is done with the husband's permission if she is married and there is a need for that, and this does not lead to her neglecting her primary duties, which are towards her own family.

From Fataawaa al-Lajnah al-Daa'imah, 12/249-250 (www.islam-qa.com)

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3690: Ruling on not doing some mustahabb deeds in order to open the hearts of the people of bid'ah whom one is calling to Islam

Question:

I will inshaa'Allaah be travelling to get married and the place where i am going has many ignorant people who follow bidah. can i make adjustments to my conduct and saying to avoid fitna and to concentrate on more fundemental issues. for example the people do not understand tawheed and i would rarther talk about this then defend myself why i raise my hands or move my finger or other aspects of the sunnah.

Answer:

Praise be to Allaah.

Firstly, if you are doing an action which is proven to be part of the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), it is not right to say that you want to make some changes to it, because it is right and proper in and of itself. But the reason behind your question seems to be that you want to keep from doing it openly in front of some people for a specific purpose, or to avoid a specific evil.

Secondly, talking about Tawheed and basic matters of `aqeedah and teaching people about these things among the people you describe, is undoubtedly more important. Tawheed is the key to the call of the Messengers (peace be upon them) and the first duty of the one who is accountable. It is the condition for all other deeds to be accepted. If it is clear to you, or you believe it to be most likely that adhering to some mustahabb actions, such as moving your finger etc., may cause confusion or fitnah, or cause you trouble, or damage your reputation so that people are put off you and do not listen to you, or distract the people you are addressing from what is more important, then there is nothing wrong with not doing it for this reason in these circumstances. Allaah knows best what your intention is, and that you are not giving it up out of negligence, but in the interests of spreading Islam, so you will be rewarded for this, in sha Allah. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad.

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Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com)

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