Muslim Murasu, December 2011
Tamil society has been held under the grip of political schism for the past forty years. Regional party came to power in Tamilnadu in 1967 after defeating the mammoth Congress by a margin of 1 percent additional votes.
It was a time when speeches on dais went on for hours together with adequate mix of excitement, heroism and entertainment. We did not have 24 hours TV channels in 1965. So-much-rice-a-rupee politics was vindicated. Tamilians never cared about election promises. They don’t concern themselves with investigation, analysis or criticism.
Assembly sessions became witness to unashamedly sycophant speeches comparing leaders with God, causing bedlam in the House and inviting to be expelled in groups by police, distracting and diverting the discussion into sidetracks. Tamilians got fed up of this. They did not feel proud about these trends. They dissented and ignored the House. This was reflected in the mood around shifting the Assembly to new place. No one is expecting any huge change even if Assembly is shifted near Koyambedu market.
A toilet in the central location in the capital city of Tamilnadu was useful to people. It was razed down to make way for a subway beneath and on top a statue of a political leader. This did not represent the voice of the people.
Marina was world’s second most beautiful beach. Lining it up with 21 statues and two tombs testifies the autocratic attitude of politicians. Peaceful zone in Kodambakkam was ruined with dumping garbage. Valluvar Kottam has changed into a consumerist exhibition market.
Dense tree cover and a children theater in Government Estate was a result of far-sightedness of national administrators. There will be a library adjacent to it, an information center. Good, descent and informative films were promised for school children for a ticket price of 12 paisa. It was brought down due to grudge of politicians. Education zone in Guindy, Adayar is now invaded with memorial.
There is no strong opposition party in Tamilnadu to take forward issues concerning Mullaiperiyar, Cauvery water share, Yalpanam massacre or autonomy for state. Politicians banking on stooges, posh vehicles, palatial buildings, cinema background and stage histrionics cannot rise to the status of opposition party. Need of the hour is for an honest opposition party.
December 26, 2011
December 22, 2011
Quran Scholar Qutbudin Alim
Muslim Murasu, December 2011
Writer Neerottam Adiyar Abdullah candidly declared in a book release function. “Maulana Maulavi Qutbudin Bakavi Hazrath is a splendid intellectual. He looks simple. Tamilnadu should know his merit”.
It was a function attended by experienced people, writers and pillars of society from Tamilnadu. Adiyar did not lie. Everyone accepted unanimously about what he said.
Maulana lived an exemplary life that any Alim can take lessons from. He voluntarily abandoned his textile business and dedicated himself to Islamic service. He did Hijrath (moved away) from Trichy with the single-minded goal to preach Islam.
He had all the qualifications and merits to talk about life and history of Prophet Ibrahim (alai) and our Prophet Muhammad (sal). He had great interest in Urdu, Tamil, Persian, Arabic and English. He used to relentlessly read books from other languages. He was often found in the middle of heaps of Arabic and Urdu books.
He became one with the development of Islamic movement in Tamilnadu. The speeches he gave in the early morning sessions in Tarbiyath (discipline-imparting) camps mended young hearts and quelled lust for materialism.
It was a time when incomplete Alims, showmen of religious preaching and Dawath clowns were swooshing by in air-conditioned cars. He spent his days in bus journeys. His intellect was class apart. He was ignored because of his humble life. “Too simple is too dangerous”. This was the comment given by a Christian leader in Vadalur.
The movements that were founded in rented houses rose to spectacular skyscrapers. But Maulana spent his life teaching Quran and his livelihood was dependent on others till the end.
He had a clear grasp of thoughts of Maulana Maududi, ideals of our Prophet, Quranic view and Islamic movement-oriented ideas.
“La ya massuhu illal mutaharrun” – these words are apt for Qutbudin Hazrath category also. No one can touch movement-activists. They live in an exalted world. “Ulayikal mukarrabun”. He is not new to God’s nearness. Allah has proved it yet again through death.
Writer Neerottam Adiyar Abdullah candidly declared in a book release function. “Maulana Maulavi Qutbudin Bakavi Hazrath is a splendid intellectual. He looks simple. Tamilnadu should know his merit”.
It was a function attended by experienced people, writers and pillars of society from Tamilnadu. Adiyar did not lie. Everyone accepted unanimously about what he said.
Maulana lived an exemplary life that any Alim can take lessons from. He voluntarily abandoned his textile business and dedicated himself to Islamic service. He did Hijrath (moved away) from Trichy with the single-minded goal to preach Islam.
He had all the qualifications and merits to talk about life and history of Prophet Ibrahim (alai) and our Prophet Muhammad (sal). He had great interest in Urdu, Tamil, Persian, Arabic and English. He used to relentlessly read books from other languages. He was often found in the middle of heaps of Arabic and Urdu books.
He became one with the development of Islamic movement in Tamilnadu. The speeches he gave in the early morning sessions in Tarbiyath (discipline-imparting) camps mended young hearts and quelled lust for materialism.
It was a time when incomplete Alims, showmen of religious preaching and Dawath clowns were swooshing by in air-conditioned cars. He spent his days in bus journeys. His intellect was class apart. He was ignored because of his humble life. “Too simple is too dangerous”. This was the comment given by a Christian leader in Vadalur.
The movements that were founded in rented houses rose to spectacular skyscrapers. But Maulana spent his life teaching Quran and his livelihood was dependent on others till the end.
He had a clear grasp of thoughts of Maulana Maududi, ideals of our Prophet, Quranic view and Islamic movement-oriented ideas.
“La ya massuhu illal mutaharrun” – these words are apt for Qutbudin Hazrath category also. No one can touch movement-activists. They live in an exalted world. “Ulayikal mukarrabun”. He is not new to God’s nearness. Allah has proved it yet again through death.
December 21, 2011
Let Us Protect Religious Sanctity
Muslim Murasu, December 2011
Religion provides answers to every want in life. Noble thoughts get their due place under the influence of religion. Hearts are cultivated. This reflects in good character and activities among human beings. This can put a stop to corruption, swindling, sexual aggression and looting public property.
Holy Book, its translations and commentaries constitute foundations of religious preaching. Each Muslim in Tamilnadu is surrounded by 14 Hindus. Muslim community is invariably influenced and guided by the ‘character’ of the majority community in matters of culture, money-mindedness, discipline, public service and God-consciousness.
24 hours entertainment channels set aside one hour in the morning for religious preaching. Remaining 23 hours are filled with debauchery, false propaganda, frantic news and half-baked expertise.
Stress was laid on personal character during the times of Rajaji and Periyar EVR. The political leadership that came after them did not pay attention to character and discipline. People with lust for land, lady and money became politicians and started leading the nation. Power went into the hands of people with habits of drinking. Sexual discipline nose-dived and infringing on rights of fellow citizens surged.
First condition in eradicating black money is God-consciousness. First requirement in religious teaching is introducing Sacred Texts. Tamil books on morality, ethics and values were completely ignored and brushed aside. Religious preachers were humiliated. Now it has become difficult to find knowledgeable experts to preach divine thoughts.
Religion has two aspects – ideology and rituals. Those doing rituals and enjoying the shade of ritualistic importance are occupying and dominating the religious scene today. This leads to dissent, dissatisfaction and negative view on religion. Principles and ideals that can help and raise humanity are pushed to backseat.
Muslims willingly assemble on every Friday afternoon to pay heed to moral preaching. Christians congregate every Sunday morning to listen to noble thoughts. But six crore Tamil Hindus are not obliging to listen to weekly speech or moral lessons. This reflects in increasing selfishness, attitude for vengeance, exuberance and excessive consumerism.
Religion provides answers to every want in life. Noble thoughts get their due place under the influence of religion. Hearts are cultivated. This reflects in good character and activities among human beings. This can put a stop to corruption, swindling, sexual aggression and looting public property.
Holy Book, its translations and commentaries constitute foundations of religious preaching. Each Muslim in Tamilnadu is surrounded by 14 Hindus. Muslim community is invariably influenced and guided by the ‘character’ of the majority community in matters of culture, money-mindedness, discipline, public service and God-consciousness.
24 hours entertainment channels set aside one hour in the morning for religious preaching. Remaining 23 hours are filled with debauchery, false propaganda, frantic news and half-baked expertise.
Stress was laid on personal character during the times of Rajaji and Periyar EVR. The political leadership that came after them did not pay attention to character and discipline. People with lust for land, lady and money became politicians and started leading the nation. Power went into the hands of people with habits of drinking. Sexual discipline nose-dived and infringing on rights of fellow citizens surged.
First condition in eradicating black money is God-consciousness. First requirement in religious teaching is introducing Sacred Texts. Tamil books on morality, ethics and values were completely ignored and brushed aside. Religious preachers were humiliated. Now it has become difficult to find knowledgeable experts to preach divine thoughts.
Religion has two aspects – ideology and rituals. Those doing rituals and enjoying the shade of ritualistic importance are occupying and dominating the religious scene today. This leads to dissent, dissatisfaction and negative view on religion. Principles and ideals that can help and raise humanity are pushed to backseat.
Muslims willingly assemble on every Friday afternoon to pay heed to moral preaching. Christians congregate every Sunday morning to listen to noble thoughts. But six crore Tamil Hindus are not obliging to listen to weekly speech or moral lessons. This reflects in increasing selfishness, attitude for vengeance, exuberance and excessive consumerism.
December 18, 2011
Two Ways To Live
Weekly Bayaan at Masjide Amina, Tableghi Jamath Markaz, Tolichowki, Hyderabad
Published in Muslim Murasu, December 2011
Set your objectives right when you sit for the Bayaan (lecture). You cannot finish Maghrib in two rakaath. You will have to complete it fully. Shaitan will motivate you to leave in the middle. Then you won’t receive the benefits of the speech. Pray to Allah. “You brought me here. Make me listen till the end”. Sit with prayers in your hearts.
You can be poor or rich, man or woman. Whatever you are, it is imperative for you to learn the religion given to us by our Prophet. Allah will honor you if you follow His Prophet.
Wealth and property, affluence or left wanting, these do not mean much to God. A poor will enter heaven in his own right if he follows the religion. A rich person also will enter heaven if he follows the religion. There were people belonging to different sections of the society among the companions of the Prophet.
Bilal (rali) was a Negro slave. Prophet tells that I heard his footsteps in the heaven. In one hadees it comes that Prophet will be entering heaven on a camel and Bilal will be having the reins of the camel and he will be going forward. A slave can attain this height. Once Prophet was having food in Sehar time. Bilal (rali) came and said that Sehar time is over. He repeated second time also. Third time, he told, “I swear by God that Sehar time is over”. Prophet stopped eating after hearing this. He later told that Sehar time was not yet over. But because you swore by God, God had advanced the time.
Though Bilal was a poor person, he attained this position because of bringing religion in his life.
Abubakkar (rali) was a very rich person. He was leader and judge. He had 12 big shops. He had accepted Islam in its very initial days. Ashre Mubashira, 10 companions who were promised heaven, got Imaan through Abubakkar. He sacrificed everything in the cause of Allah. People on earth told that Abubakkar has lost everything. God on heavens told that Abubakkar deserves His Salaam. Angel Jibreel came to Prophet and told that God has conveyed Salaam to Abubakkar.
Kathija (rali) was a rich woman. She had been widowed twice. There were children from her earlier marriages. She was the first woman to accept Islam. She sacrificed herself, her children and everything she had for the religion. She was famished for three days during her death.
Poor and rich, women and men, can rise alike. There is only one condition. They have to bring Islam in their lives.
Enter completely.
Islam is not a textiles shop where you can pick what you like and leave behind what you don’t like. You are not allowed to follow only that which fits well with your culture, job and society and leave others.
The verse continues as do not follow Shaitan.
That which is not Prophet’s life is Shaitan’s life. He is your avowed enemy. Those who follow Shaitan will have their lives ruined. You can live either as God’s slave or as Shaitan’s slave.
Let us see the background of this verse. Abdullah ibn Salaam had accepted Islam. He was a Jewish scholar. He had known Prophet’s arrival through their scriptures and voluntarily accepted Islam. Camel is halaal for us. Meat of camel is haraam (forbidden) according to Jewish Book. He had never eaten camel meat in his life. A thought crossed his mind that he can follow Prophet Moses in this matter and in all other matters he will follow Prophet Muhammad. He thought that he could follow both the Prophets in this way.
Even we don’t eat camel meat in our lives. But we understand that it is halaal. This verse was sent down in this backdrop. You are not allowed to follow two ways. Enter into Islam completely.
Ya ayyuhallajina amanu udkulu fissilmi kaffa. (Surah Baqarah, verse 208).
Shariath of Prophet Moses is not for us. We cannot become Muslims by saying “la ilaha illallah moosa kaleemullah”. We cannot become Muslims by saying “la ilaha illallah eesaa roohullah”. Jews and Christians accept God. But they don’t accept Prophet Muhammad. They cannot become Muslims. The condition of Imaan is to accept Prophethood of our Prophet. The condition of Islam is to follow our Prophet.
Prophet once told Umar (rali). Listen carefully, the book you read, even if the people of that Torah are alive today, they cannot get salvation without following me.
Today you are following anyone you like without any sanction. You won’t get guidance in this way. We are not allowed to see anywhere else after accepting our Prophet's lifestyle.
Prophet’s Shariath is complete in every way. It is the perfect way. ‘Athiur Rasool’ – follow Prophet. This has come around forty times in Quran. Love for Prophet is love for God. Words of Prophet are words of God. Prophet’s ways are the dearest for God.
There was a companion of God who used to note down everything that Prophet says. Other companions of Prophet advised him not to take down everything because Prophet can be in different mood at different times. Prophet once noticed that he was not taking notes and inquired about it. He told about the apprehensions of other companions.
Prophet replied – In whose hand rests the life of Muhammad, I swear by Him, the words that come from my tongue are words of God. This is complete religion. We don’t have to beg others for any guidance. All we have to do is to follow our Prophet all the 24 hours.
Men are like mines of gold and silver. They have incredible talents and capabilities hidden in them. You will find goodness in them if you search for that. If you look for badness, you will find only that. You have to look inward to find bad things. You are bad. That is the reason you find detestable things in others. Be like bees and go after fragrance.
Published in Muslim Murasu, December 2011
Set your objectives right when you sit for the Bayaan (lecture). You cannot finish Maghrib in two rakaath. You will have to complete it fully. Shaitan will motivate you to leave in the middle. Then you won’t receive the benefits of the speech. Pray to Allah. “You brought me here. Make me listen till the end”. Sit with prayers in your hearts.
You can be poor or rich, man or woman. Whatever you are, it is imperative for you to learn the religion given to us by our Prophet. Allah will honor you if you follow His Prophet.
Wealth and property, affluence or left wanting, these do not mean much to God. A poor will enter heaven in his own right if he follows the religion. A rich person also will enter heaven if he follows the religion. There were people belonging to different sections of the society among the companions of the Prophet.
Bilal (rali) was a Negro slave. Prophet tells that I heard his footsteps in the heaven. In one hadees it comes that Prophet will be entering heaven on a camel and Bilal will be having the reins of the camel and he will be going forward. A slave can attain this height. Once Prophet was having food in Sehar time. Bilal (rali) came and said that Sehar time is over. He repeated second time also. Third time, he told, “I swear by God that Sehar time is over”. Prophet stopped eating after hearing this. He later told that Sehar time was not yet over. But because you swore by God, God had advanced the time.
Though Bilal was a poor person, he attained this position because of bringing religion in his life.
Abubakkar (rali) was a very rich person. He was leader and judge. He had 12 big shops. He had accepted Islam in its very initial days. Ashre Mubashira, 10 companions who were promised heaven, got Imaan through Abubakkar. He sacrificed everything in the cause of Allah. People on earth told that Abubakkar has lost everything. God on heavens told that Abubakkar deserves His Salaam. Angel Jibreel came to Prophet and told that God has conveyed Salaam to Abubakkar.
Kathija (rali) was a rich woman. She had been widowed twice. There were children from her earlier marriages. She was the first woman to accept Islam. She sacrificed herself, her children and everything she had for the religion. She was famished for three days during her death.
Poor and rich, women and men, can rise alike. There is only one condition. They have to bring Islam in their lives.
Enter completely.
Islam is not a textiles shop where you can pick what you like and leave behind what you don’t like. You are not allowed to follow only that which fits well with your culture, job and society and leave others.
The verse continues as do not follow Shaitan.
That which is not Prophet’s life is Shaitan’s life. He is your avowed enemy. Those who follow Shaitan will have their lives ruined. You can live either as God’s slave or as Shaitan’s slave.
Let us see the background of this verse. Abdullah ibn Salaam had accepted Islam. He was a Jewish scholar. He had known Prophet’s arrival through their scriptures and voluntarily accepted Islam. Camel is halaal for us. Meat of camel is haraam (forbidden) according to Jewish Book. He had never eaten camel meat in his life. A thought crossed his mind that he can follow Prophet Moses in this matter and in all other matters he will follow Prophet Muhammad. He thought that he could follow both the Prophets in this way.
Even we don’t eat camel meat in our lives. But we understand that it is halaal. This verse was sent down in this backdrop. You are not allowed to follow two ways. Enter into Islam completely.
Ya ayyuhallajina amanu udkulu fissilmi kaffa. (Surah Baqarah, verse 208).
Shariath of Prophet Moses is not for us. We cannot become Muslims by saying “la ilaha illallah moosa kaleemullah”. We cannot become Muslims by saying “la ilaha illallah eesaa roohullah”. Jews and Christians accept God. But they don’t accept Prophet Muhammad. They cannot become Muslims. The condition of Imaan is to accept Prophethood of our Prophet. The condition of Islam is to follow our Prophet.
Prophet once told Umar (rali). Listen carefully, the book you read, even if the people of that Torah are alive today, they cannot get salvation without following me.
Today you are following anyone you like without any sanction. You won’t get guidance in this way. We are not allowed to see anywhere else after accepting our Prophet's lifestyle.
Prophet’s Shariath is complete in every way. It is the perfect way. ‘Athiur Rasool’ – follow Prophet. This has come around forty times in Quran. Love for Prophet is love for God. Words of Prophet are words of God. Prophet’s ways are the dearest for God.
There was a companion of God who used to note down everything that Prophet says. Other companions of Prophet advised him not to take down everything because Prophet can be in different mood at different times. Prophet once noticed that he was not taking notes and inquired about it. He told about the apprehensions of other companions.
Prophet replied – In whose hand rests the life of Muhammad, I swear by Him, the words that come from my tongue are words of God. This is complete religion. We don’t have to beg others for any guidance. All we have to do is to follow our Prophet all the 24 hours.
Men are like mines of gold and silver. They have incredible talents and capabilities hidden in them. You will find goodness in them if you search for that. If you look for badness, you will find only that. You have to look inward to find bad things. You are bad. That is the reason you find detestable things in others. Be like bees and go after fragrance.
December 16, 2011
Examples From Lives Of Prophets Ismail And Yusuf
Maulana Wahiduddin Khan speech
Published in Muslim Murasu, December 2011
Islam is the religion that has been sent to all the prophets from the first prophet to the last prophet. Islam was not protected during the times of earlier prophets. In the time of our Prophet, Islam got documented and guarded.
Islam is not the superior religion. Islam is a preserved religion. This is God’s authentic scheme. Islam has two aspects – ideology and practical implementation. Ideology, principle, is very noble. But it is not possible to implement ideal ideas. Ideology is perfect and hundred percent correct. But a team is needed to practically implement it. Then a method is needed to take it to the people.
Islam is the approved religion in the view of Allah. Only authentic source to understand this is Quran. One has to read Quran to understand death, creation, God and next life.
All the creations are obedient to God. Man has been given liberty. This is the test. Other creations have not been given liberty. Man has two options – he can either accept or reject. His natural inclination is towards accepting. This raises man higher than other creations. Quran can be explained in one line as creation plan of God.
How can we implement it? Allah has enacted role models for us in the form of Messengers and Prophets. “Fabihuda humukthadhi” – Follow the guidance that they followed. Surah 6, Al anaam, verse 90. Our faith is that we have guidance in each Messenger of God.
However lofty be your ideals, if you don’t have a team, you won’t see success. This is the truth we find from Prophet Ibrahim. Prophet Ibrahim, Hajira and Ismail are the main characters here. Prophet Ibrahim was born in Iraq. He did missionary works there. But a team did not form. Allah told, “Leave your son in a desert”. Surah 14, Ibrahim, verse 37.
How should we form a team? Its foundations are explained in this verse. You should find men prepared to live in a desert. Cities are full of glamor and distractions. They removed themselves from this and moved to a desert. Men spirited enough to move away from temptations and material comforts need to be identified.
This is age of media. Photographs and videos are proving to be mighty distractions. Cravings have increased for popularity, money and influence. One should shun petty desires while preparing youngsters. People removed from material attractions are needed.
It took many years for Prophet Ibrahim to form a team in desert. It took many generations. But in today’s world, such long troubles and durations are not needed. With swift transportation and communication that are available today, huge changes can come in a generation’s time. Earlier mail communication can take from 3 days to a whole month. Now we hear responses instantly without any delay. Today means and equipments have increased. But it has become difficult to find people who can rise above narrow ideas.
“Provide them with fruits”, continues verse 37. Allah will start showering His Blessings on them. Such crusaders will find Rizk flowing towards them from all corners and directions. There is no history of such people left famished to death. The petrodollar prosperity that we see today is a return for the sacrifice of Prophet Ismail.
Crowds won’t gather, nor will there be coverage in media. But Allah will not leave the people struggling in His cause to languish in their conditions. He will glorify them. We can take inspiration from Prophet Ismail’s life to form team. First we have to prepare ourselves. Mission can’t reach people without a team.
Ideology of people we come face to face is different from our ideology. We face obstacles and hindrances at each step. The solution to this problem is in Surah Yusuf, twelfth Surah. It is described as beautiful history, “hasanal kasas”. This terminology, ‘beautiful story’, has not been used for anyone else in Quran. A full Surah has been sent down illustrating the life of a Prophet.
He was born in a rural area in Palestine. Allah brought Yusuf to a city in Egypt. This was where government was operating. Usually resistance and disagreements rise from government and political quarters. How can we undertake missionary works without getting into confrontational mode with powers that be?
An example for this is found in Prophet Yusuf. The king got a dream for which no one knew to explain. Prophet Yusuf explained the dream, which pleased the king. Yusuf was given a very powerful position in the ministry. He got hold of full power. Yusuf made use of the political powers that he got. He did not confront with the government’s supremacy. “I will sit on the throne. Then I will establish my religion”. He did not fathom such stupid theories. He accepted the supremacy of the government and polity and all opportunities become available for him.
We do not need ministerial berths. We only need infrastructure and opportunities. This is the lesson we get from Prophet Yusuf. This has become thousand times more important in the state of confusion that is prevalent today. King had all the powers in those days. But today, government is only for managing and administration. American government is rightly called as American Administration. Government is only for administration. This is a favorable situation for us. We can print Quran, do translations, arrange meetings, distribute magazines. Earlier government had control over everything. Allah has made Yusuf’s example an authentic role model. Otherwise some people will be arguing that first we go after power. Till then there won’t be any missionary work.
Islam has been preserved because of our Prophet’s sacrifice and efforts. The intention behind reciting Salawath is to acknowledge his mercy. Prophet Ibrahim’s two descendants have given us two valuable lessons on how to form a team and methodology to take it forward.
Published in Muslim Murasu, December 2011
Islam is the religion that has been sent to all the prophets from the first prophet to the last prophet. Islam was not protected during the times of earlier prophets. In the time of our Prophet, Islam got documented and guarded.
Islam is not the superior religion. Islam is a preserved religion. This is God’s authentic scheme. Islam has two aspects – ideology and practical implementation. Ideology, principle, is very noble. But it is not possible to implement ideal ideas. Ideology is perfect and hundred percent correct. But a team is needed to practically implement it. Then a method is needed to take it to the people.
Islam is the approved religion in the view of Allah. Only authentic source to understand this is Quran. One has to read Quran to understand death, creation, God and next life.
All the creations are obedient to God. Man has been given liberty. This is the test. Other creations have not been given liberty. Man has two options – he can either accept or reject. His natural inclination is towards accepting. This raises man higher than other creations. Quran can be explained in one line as creation plan of God.
How can we implement it? Allah has enacted role models for us in the form of Messengers and Prophets. “Fabihuda humukthadhi” – Follow the guidance that they followed. Surah 6, Al anaam, verse 90. Our faith is that we have guidance in each Messenger of God.
However lofty be your ideals, if you don’t have a team, you won’t see success. This is the truth we find from Prophet Ibrahim. Prophet Ibrahim, Hajira and Ismail are the main characters here. Prophet Ibrahim was born in Iraq. He did missionary works there. But a team did not form. Allah told, “Leave your son in a desert”. Surah 14, Ibrahim, verse 37.
How should we form a team? Its foundations are explained in this verse. You should find men prepared to live in a desert. Cities are full of glamor and distractions. They removed themselves from this and moved to a desert. Men spirited enough to move away from temptations and material comforts need to be identified.
This is age of media. Photographs and videos are proving to be mighty distractions. Cravings have increased for popularity, money and influence. One should shun petty desires while preparing youngsters. People removed from material attractions are needed.
It took many years for Prophet Ibrahim to form a team in desert. It took many generations. But in today’s world, such long troubles and durations are not needed. With swift transportation and communication that are available today, huge changes can come in a generation’s time. Earlier mail communication can take from 3 days to a whole month. Now we hear responses instantly without any delay. Today means and equipments have increased. But it has become difficult to find people who can rise above narrow ideas.
“Provide them with fruits”, continues verse 37. Allah will start showering His Blessings on them. Such crusaders will find Rizk flowing towards them from all corners and directions. There is no history of such people left famished to death. The petrodollar prosperity that we see today is a return for the sacrifice of Prophet Ismail.
Crowds won’t gather, nor will there be coverage in media. But Allah will not leave the people struggling in His cause to languish in their conditions. He will glorify them. We can take inspiration from Prophet Ismail’s life to form team. First we have to prepare ourselves. Mission can’t reach people without a team.
Ideology of people we come face to face is different from our ideology. We face obstacles and hindrances at each step. The solution to this problem is in Surah Yusuf, twelfth Surah. It is described as beautiful history, “hasanal kasas”. This terminology, ‘beautiful story’, has not been used for anyone else in Quran. A full Surah has been sent down illustrating the life of a Prophet.
He was born in a rural area in Palestine. Allah brought Yusuf to a city in Egypt. This was where government was operating. Usually resistance and disagreements rise from government and political quarters. How can we undertake missionary works without getting into confrontational mode with powers that be?
An example for this is found in Prophet Yusuf. The king got a dream for which no one knew to explain. Prophet Yusuf explained the dream, which pleased the king. Yusuf was given a very powerful position in the ministry. He got hold of full power. Yusuf made use of the political powers that he got. He did not confront with the government’s supremacy. “I will sit on the throne. Then I will establish my religion”. He did not fathom such stupid theories. He accepted the supremacy of the government and polity and all opportunities become available for him.
We do not need ministerial berths. We only need infrastructure and opportunities. This is the lesson we get from Prophet Yusuf. This has become thousand times more important in the state of confusion that is prevalent today. King had all the powers in those days. But today, government is only for managing and administration. American government is rightly called as American Administration. Government is only for administration. This is a favorable situation for us. We can print Quran, do translations, arrange meetings, distribute magazines. Earlier government had control over everything. Allah has made Yusuf’s example an authentic role model. Otherwise some people will be arguing that first we go after power. Till then there won’t be any missionary work.
Islam has been preserved because of our Prophet’s sacrifice and efforts. The intention behind reciting Salawath is to acknowledge his mercy. Prophet Ibrahim’s two descendants have given us two valuable lessons on how to form a team and methodology to take it forward.
Quality Improvement Of Spiritualists
Muslim Murasu, December 2011
A new stranger will come to Prophet. A brief conversation will explain ideology and character, clarify any doubt and selection will be done within a few minutes. He will be shown a companion of Prophet and asked to spend three days in his company. This was quality control under direct supervision. Pure, perfect, exemplary spiritualists were produced this way in those days. People who followed rose to exalted heights. They were successful in this life and the next life.
Today religious flag bearers are seeking respect from believers on the basis of M.A., Ph.D., English knowledge and modern attire. Language fluency can be helpful to an extent. But that won’t bring revolution of any sort. Degrees and university researches can give respect. But it won’t impart humility or austerity. Materialistic thrust, desire or its introduction in any form is totally antagonistic to religious mission.
Spiritualists are noble people chosen by God. Their identification is austerity, courage, relentless service and honesty. They are direct representatives of God. They are committed to the welfare of people.
Religious ritualist is different from a religious spiritualist. They are two different categories, their mandates are different. Ritualistic mission is to guard rites and rituals. A person who speaks in blaring tone on a Friday afternoon in front of thousand believers with a half-hidden note in his hand cannot qualify for a religious spiritualist.
Seven days of life, its experiences and teachings, achievements and principles, will radiate spontaneously and explode in twenty minutes. This will easily attract audience to him. Offspring will be produced within few minutes, few days, few weeks and few months.
People today mistake ritualists for spiritualists. Religious spiritualist is one who has sky and earth, land and ocean under his control. He represents God. His position is exalted and his heights are unimaginable.
He constantly and all the time converses and whispers to God. He prays for all his needs only to his Creator. He remains balanced during good and bad times. He is devoid of wailing and screeching and exuberant celebrations. He qualifies for a spiritualist.
Building is not needed. A porch will do just fine. Apt words and a God-conscious person is produced.
It is possible to have quality improvement training for spiritualists. But there are conditions. It takes additional honesty, additional hard work, additional piety and additional courage to produce another spiritualist.
A new stranger will come to Prophet. A brief conversation will explain ideology and character, clarify any doubt and selection will be done within a few minutes. He will be shown a companion of Prophet and asked to spend three days in his company. This was quality control under direct supervision. Pure, perfect, exemplary spiritualists were produced this way in those days. People who followed rose to exalted heights. They were successful in this life and the next life.
Today religious flag bearers are seeking respect from believers on the basis of M.A., Ph.D., English knowledge and modern attire. Language fluency can be helpful to an extent. But that won’t bring revolution of any sort. Degrees and university researches can give respect. But it won’t impart humility or austerity. Materialistic thrust, desire or its introduction in any form is totally antagonistic to religious mission.
Spiritualists are noble people chosen by God. Their identification is austerity, courage, relentless service and honesty. They are direct representatives of God. They are committed to the welfare of people.
Religious ritualist is different from a religious spiritualist. They are two different categories, their mandates are different. Ritualistic mission is to guard rites and rituals. A person who speaks in blaring tone on a Friday afternoon in front of thousand believers with a half-hidden note in his hand cannot qualify for a religious spiritualist.
Seven days of life, its experiences and teachings, achievements and principles, will radiate spontaneously and explode in twenty minutes. This will easily attract audience to him. Offspring will be produced within few minutes, few days, few weeks and few months.
People today mistake ritualists for spiritualists. Religious spiritualist is one who has sky and earth, land and ocean under his control. He represents God. His position is exalted and his heights are unimaginable.
He constantly and all the time converses and whispers to God. He prays for all his needs only to his Creator. He remains balanced during good and bad times. He is devoid of wailing and screeching and exuberant celebrations. He qualifies for a spiritualist.
Building is not needed. A porch will do just fine. Apt words and a God-conscious person is produced.
It is possible to have quality improvement training for spiritualists. But there are conditions. It takes additional honesty, additional hard work, additional piety and additional courage to produce another spiritualist.
December 13, 2011
A Guiding Government Employee
Muslim Murasu, December 2011
Government does not function for three months each around assembly election, parliament election and local body election. Tenders and quotations for new purchases are not allowed. Only expenditures that were approved before the announcement of election can be implemented. Consumers are given a raw deal. Employees who are drawing full salary cite election as excuse and deny to give their signatures.
The difference between government toilet and private-maintained toilet is visible amply on a visit. There will be red smear. Taps will be leaking. Stench will be unbearable.
There is no comparison possible between government guest house and private guest house. Maintenance in government marriage hall and private marriage hall bear witness to corruption. Taking government bus and private bus for analysis makes it clear the hopelessness and callous attitude.
RTO office, police station, hospital structure and court premises that are maintained by government are quite pathetic. Reason is not shortage of money. A single person earns crores of rupees as bribe. The attitude to upkeep is totally missing in government administration.
A new lorry has to be bought. It is possible to do this within 24 hours in a private firm. But in government dispensation, it is not possible to buy even a table or chair in six months.
District secretary or political party cadre will hold position as minister. He would have been a normal citizen till yesterday. But now he has got wings and will be flying. He sees all officers and employees as bonded labors or some insects.
Ministers should be intelligent. They should appear twice a month on TV on live for fifteen minutes and explain targets, achievements, statistics and obstacles they see in their departments without help of any notes in hand. Ministers who are controlling officers earning 60000 a month should have sharp thinking power, memory and domain knowledge.
Maintenance in government administration is wobbling not because of lack of funds. That is a very small part of the reason. “I don’t care what happens around. I care only about my table” – this attitude brings down the standard. The state government that is in full majority should seek to acquire standards in maintenance. Lest government funds will go wasted.
Government does not function for three months each around assembly election, parliament election and local body election. Tenders and quotations for new purchases are not allowed. Only expenditures that were approved before the announcement of election can be implemented. Consumers are given a raw deal. Employees who are drawing full salary cite election as excuse and deny to give their signatures.
The difference between government toilet and private-maintained toilet is visible amply on a visit. There will be red smear. Taps will be leaking. Stench will be unbearable.
There is no comparison possible between government guest house and private guest house. Maintenance in government marriage hall and private marriage hall bear witness to corruption. Taking government bus and private bus for analysis makes it clear the hopelessness and callous attitude.
RTO office, police station, hospital structure and court premises that are maintained by government are quite pathetic. Reason is not shortage of money. A single person earns crores of rupees as bribe. The attitude to upkeep is totally missing in government administration.
A new lorry has to be bought. It is possible to do this within 24 hours in a private firm. But in government dispensation, it is not possible to buy even a table or chair in six months.
District secretary or political party cadre will hold position as minister. He would have been a normal citizen till yesterday. But now he has got wings and will be flying. He sees all officers and employees as bonded labors or some insects.
Ministers should be intelligent. They should appear twice a month on TV on live for fifteen minutes and explain targets, achievements, statistics and obstacles they see in their departments without help of any notes in hand. Ministers who are controlling officers earning 60000 a month should have sharp thinking power, memory and domain knowledge.
Maintenance in government administration is wobbling not because of lack of funds. That is a very small part of the reason. “I don’t care what happens around. I care only about my table” – this attitude brings down the standard. The state government that is in full majority should seek to acquire standards in maintenance. Lest government funds will go wasted.
December 09, 2011
Do Not Forget God Amid Marriage Celebrations
Darse Quran by Maulana Rizwan Pasha Quadri at Masjide Shujath, Tolichowki, Hyderabad
Published in Muslim Murasu, December 2011
Surah Nisa, fourth Surah, contains 176 verses. It descended over a time span of two years from Hijri 3 to Hijri 5 in Medinah.
Surah Fatiha subject is God’s praise, His glory, man’s humility and prayer for guidance. Surah Baqarah deals with character and crookedness of Jews, incidents from lives of Prophets Moosa, Ibrahim and Uzair (alai), change in Kibla, rewards for patience and precepts for fasting and Jakath. Surah Ala Imran deals with false beliefs in Christianity, commands for Haj, preaching goodness and stopping bad deeds and lessons from Badr and Uhud battles.
ImraAthun- woman, Nisa – women. A full Surah has been sent down in the name of women. Commands and lessons about marriage and kind-heartedness towards orphans are the main contents in this Surah.
Good families form backbone for a society. A person will be naturally good and useful if he hails from a peaceful family. Frictions, disagreements, fights and disaffection in the house will make a person restless and ruin his life. House should be set in order as a first step towards changing the society. Family environment is the basis for a peaceful nation. The focus of this Surah is to better family environment.
Upholding rights of women, taking care of orphans and being just during property division form foundations of a peaceful family.
Most of the problems arise during property division. Women are not given their share. Strong candidates try to gulp the whole property for themselves. Siblings who grew up sleeping on one pillow become totally estranged. Family gets disintegrated. Surah Nisa lays down rules for property division.
Honor of the family gets importance, a family where character is taught. Women were put in fire along with their deceased husbands till 400 years ago. Their heads were tonsured. When a new bride comes into a house and incidentally someone dies, the bride had to take all the blame. This irrational practice is present even in some Muslim houses.
Women were considered as cursed and a burden. Share in property was denied. We have to turn back to the commands given by God. Men have responsibilities towards women, as do women towards men. Both will be held accountable for their responsibilities. Good among you are those who are good to your wives. Father, husband, brother and son should fulfill their duties to provide a secure environment to women.
Prophet had lost his father. He knew the plight of orphans. He is a mercy to all the worlds, so he was completely aware of turmoils of orphans. He was in Halima’s house for first four years and he stayed for the subsequent two years with his mother Amina. Then he lost Amina. If Amina had passed away in Meccah, prophet would have had his grandfather and uncles to console him. But the region Hawwa is a deserted place even now. Amina died in this place. The terrible situation that our Prophet would have gone through is unimaginable. When Prophet passed over this same place during Hajjul Vida, he wept severely. According to accounts given by his companions, Prophet had never wept so badly in any other occasion.
Prophet had lost both mother and father. Prophet knew their pains and he was always empathetic to orphans. Islam has laid stress to be kind to orphans.
This Surah has commands for Ozhu and Tayammam. This Surah emphasizes following Prophet completely without any reservations.
First two verses are recited during marriages. “O mankind! Fear your Lord”. Why should we fear. He created all of you from a single life. We should not differentiate human beings based on birth.
People of Iran used to think that they are good looking. Arabs used to think they can speak, others are dumb. All are equal. All are created by the same God. He protects everyone. Whatever advancements you make, you cannot become God. You are human beings. Another reason for equality is that we are created from the same mother and father. Islam does not accept family pride. There is no difference between driver’s son and owner’s son. All are people of Adam.
Fear God, in whose name you appeal to one another. You ask for help saying, ‘for God’s sake’. Fear that Lord.
‘Fear God’ has come twice in this same verse. Marriage is a joyous occasion. Prophet has chosen this verse to be recited in marriage. Man forgets God when he is engulfed in happiness or drowned in sorrow. A new bride is coming home. It is a joyous occasion. But do not forget God and get out of control. Moomin should always maintain dignity.
Published in Muslim Murasu, December 2011
Surah Nisa, fourth Surah, contains 176 verses. It descended over a time span of two years from Hijri 3 to Hijri 5 in Medinah.
Surah Fatiha subject is God’s praise, His glory, man’s humility and prayer for guidance. Surah Baqarah deals with character and crookedness of Jews, incidents from lives of Prophets Moosa, Ibrahim and Uzair (alai), change in Kibla, rewards for patience and precepts for fasting and Jakath. Surah Ala Imran deals with false beliefs in Christianity, commands for Haj, preaching goodness and stopping bad deeds and lessons from Badr and Uhud battles.
ImraAthun- woman, Nisa – women. A full Surah has been sent down in the name of women. Commands and lessons about marriage and kind-heartedness towards orphans are the main contents in this Surah.
Good families form backbone for a society. A person will be naturally good and useful if he hails from a peaceful family. Frictions, disagreements, fights and disaffection in the house will make a person restless and ruin his life. House should be set in order as a first step towards changing the society. Family environment is the basis for a peaceful nation. The focus of this Surah is to better family environment.
Upholding rights of women, taking care of orphans and being just during property division form foundations of a peaceful family.
Most of the problems arise during property division. Women are not given their share. Strong candidates try to gulp the whole property for themselves. Siblings who grew up sleeping on one pillow become totally estranged. Family gets disintegrated. Surah Nisa lays down rules for property division.
Honor of the family gets importance, a family where character is taught. Women were put in fire along with their deceased husbands till 400 years ago. Their heads were tonsured. When a new bride comes into a house and incidentally someone dies, the bride had to take all the blame. This irrational practice is present even in some Muslim houses.
Women were considered as cursed and a burden. Share in property was denied. We have to turn back to the commands given by God. Men have responsibilities towards women, as do women towards men. Both will be held accountable for their responsibilities. Good among you are those who are good to your wives. Father, husband, brother and son should fulfill their duties to provide a secure environment to women.
Prophet had lost his father. He knew the plight of orphans. He is a mercy to all the worlds, so he was completely aware of turmoils of orphans. He was in Halima’s house for first four years and he stayed for the subsequent two years with his mother Amina. Then he lost Amina. If Amina had passed away in Meccah, prophet would have had his grandfather and uncles to console him. But the region Hawwa is a deserted place even now. Amina died in this place. The terrible situation that our Prophet would have gone through is unimaginable. When Prophet passed over this same place during Hajjul Vida, he wept severely. According to accounts given by his companions, Prophet had never wept so badly in any other occasion.
Prophet had lost both mother and father. Prophet knew their pains and he was always empathetic to orphans. Islam has laid stress to be kind to orphans.
This Surah has commands for Ozhu and Tayammam. This Surah emphasizes following Prophet completely without any reservations.
First two verses are recited during marriages. “O mankind! Fear your Lord”. Why should we fear. He created all of you from a single life. We should not differentiate human beings based on birth.
People of Iran used to think that they are good looking. Arabs used to think they can speak, others are dumb. All are equal. All are created by the same God. He protects everyone. Whatever advancements you make, you cannot become God. You are human beings. Another reason for equality is that we are created from the same mother and father. Islam does not accept family pride. There is no difference between driver’s son and owner’s son. All are people of Adam.
Fear God, in whose name you appeal to one another. You ask for help saying, ‘for God’s sake’. Fear that Lord.
‘Fear God’ has come twice in this same verse. Marriage is a joyous occasion. Prophet has chosen this verse to be recited in marriage. Man forgets God when he is engulfed in happiness or drowned in sorrow. A new bride is coming home. It is a joyous occasion. But do not forget God and get out of control. Moomin should always maintain dignity.
December 06, 2011
Marriage Misdeeds
Islamic Fiqh Academy Secretary Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani speech at Walajah mosque in Chennai
Published in Muslim Murasu, December 2011
Islahi Mashira. Living together is essential. Man on one hand relates to God and on the other hand relates with his fellow human beings. Both are important. If he has love for God, it will certainly transform into unconditional love for fellow beings.
In Prophet’s opinion, best among human beings are those who have best character. They are those who are pleasant to others.
A lady was said to do prayers in excess. But people felt uncomfortable with her behavior with them. Another lady only met bare minimum needs when it comes to prayer. But she was more than amiable in her nature. People had good impression about her. Prophet told that the first lady will enter hell and the second will enter heaven.
Goodness in character is more important than mere ritualistic prayers. A good community is one in which people are good to each other.
Today we see people steeped in religious affinity increasing. Mosques are swelling. There are more worshipers. Spending for religion has increased. There are more men sporting beard and religious appearance. But hardships are also increasing. Muslims are humiliated and belittled. Muslims are not safe even in Muslim nations. They are killed and injured. This has never happened in Islamic history. What is the reason? On one hand Ibadath (worship) is increasing and on the other hand humiliations are mounting.
Sins will make Ibadath ineffective. This is Prophet’s view. A person is having jaundice. He is taking medicines. He also eats briyani and paaya. Medicines won’t help him. Ibadath will become wasted because of wrong deeds and improprieties.
A time will come when people will cry and pray from their hearts. But their prayers won’t be answered. Allah will say that your flesh, blood and skin are from haraam (forbidden) income. I won’t accept your prayers. Haraam income will nullify prayers.
Each one of us should seriously consider this. Which of Allah’s commands have we rejected or dishonored. Why do we face increasing difficulties and troubles.
Marriage, divorce and division of property – God’s commands are frequently breached in these three matters. Marriage has become a Muslim problem all over India. Now it is taking global dimensions.
Marriage is a very simple process in Islamic way. All that is needed is two witnesses. For Namaz, there is some requirement about dress. Dress should be clean and proper. One has to travel to do Haj. Money is needed to give Jakath. But one can marry without a penny.
Nikah is an Ibadath. This is a historic mosque. If a person requests to open a textile shop here, we won’t accept. We won’t accept even if he offers to pack it off during Jumah time.
Prophet told to announce marriage and arrange it in mosque. Some narrations tell that marriage of Fathima (rali) was conducted in mosque. Nikah is an Ibadath. So it is recommended to conduct it in mosque.
Kutba (sermon) is organized during Jumah, Haj and during heavy rains. Kutba is associated with worship. No one will conduct Kutba before starting for market or shopping. Prophet has recommended Kutba with marriage.
Nikah is Prophet’s sunnath. His way. “Marriage is my Sunnath. Whoever breaches my Sunnath does not belong to me”. What does this mean.
We have to do Namaz like Prophet did. Sajda increases intimacy with God. But we cannot do four Sajda in a rakaath. Offering Namaz as we wish is not permitted. We cannot offer four rakaath in Magrib.
Nikah is Prophet’s Sunnath. Sunnath is to follow Prophet exactly. We have to follow his way completely. Our personal and individual desires and ideas are not permitted.
In God’s view, marriage with less expenditure brings more Barakath. Our standard is violating from Prophet’s standard. Our views are completely differing.
We invite everyone for marriage. We invite even our enemies, distant relatives, those with whom we are not in speaking terms, and those with whom we have bitter relationship and those with whom we are not in touch. We nearly force them to attend marriage. But only two do not get any invitation – God and His Prophet.
Barakath differs according to context. In terms of money, Barakath is to have maximum needs fulfilled with minimum amount. For health, Barakath is to lead healthy life without disease.
Barakath in marriage is to look forward to tension-free life, intimate and soulful relationship, peaceful days and good children.
Today each house is beset with disputes. There is clash between wife and mother-in-law. There are differences between husband and wife. ‘La thaskunu alaiha’ – purpose is peace and harmony. This is God’s intention. When a man enters his house, he should find a peaceful atmosphere. He should get rid of tension. But now situation is equally turbulent in outer world and inside house. People are engulfed with tension and restlessness.
Reason is that we rejected Prophet’s way of marriage. Bounty and Barakath in Nikah has left us.
Spouse should be like Libaas (raiment). Raiment will give beauty and decency. It is a matter of pride for a man if his wife binds his relations. Dress gives protection from heat, cold, rain and dust. Spouse should protect secrets and property. She will hide her husband’s weaknesses. Dress will hide scars and wounds. We see that weaknesses of wife are revealed to everyone in the house. A person who does not find peace in his house cannot make it big in life.
God has been extremely kind and beneficent to the mission of two Prophets. They are Ibrahim (alai) and Muhammad (sal). Their wives supported their mission and were obedient. They offered help and support. So their mission met with great success.
Dawath of two Prophets did not find great success. There was nothing missing in their efforts or characters. Their wives were unbelievers and disobedient. Nooh (alai) and Lut (alai).
If a person is not ably supported by mother, wife and daughter, he cannot achieve anything big. There should be support from this faculty.
Each Muslim house is beset with disputes and fights. Main reason is extravagant marriages, spending too much during marriages.
Abubakkar and Umar (rali) asked for the hand of Prophet’s daughter Fathima (rali). Prophet gently declined. Umar and Usman suggested Ali (rali) to express his desire. Prophet accepted. Message is that if we offer to marry a woman and the offer is declined, we should not take it in bitter taste and make it a cause for enmity. Nowadays they stop talking afterwards. Talks about relation should originate from groom’s side. Groom’s family should start the discussion. Today, the situation is reverse. Prophet expressed his desire to marry Ayisha. Except Kathija, Prophet initiated marriage talks for all other wives. Bride’s family is not a disgraced family. Groom’s side should talk respectfully.
Four Sahabas (companions) have contributed immensely to Islamic mission. Prophet married daughters of Abubakkar and Umar (rali) and gave his daughters in marriage to Usman and Ali (rali).
During Ali’s marriage, shield was auctioned for Mehar. It was sold for 800 Dirham. Usman bought it and gave the money. Usman gave the shield back as marriage gift. Some money was handed over to Bilal (rali) to buy some materials that are essential to set up a house. 300 Dirham remained. Prophet told Ali that in the event of separation from Fathima, he should pay atleast a portion of Mehar. Scholars infer that during divorce, atleast a portion of Mehar should be compulsorily returned. Marriage took place in Masjid-un-nabavi. Prophet personally escorted his daughter that evening to Ali’s house. He advised Ali that he should take care of all external works hereafter. Prophet told Fathima that she should take care of all household works from this day.
Abbas is Prophets uncle. He had converted to Islam and was staying in Meccah. Prophet did not see it necessary to invite him. Man should not eat from his wife’s property and earning. Prophet’s son-in-law worked and earned. It is man’s duty to earn for his family. Prophet laid stress on this. They got children like Hasan and Husain (rali). Their family flourished.
When halaal is made difficult, haraam will become easy. If loan is difficult, usury will be cheap. If marriage is difficult, indecency will become common. A survey taken many years back revealed that there are 40000 Muslim women in the city who are more than 30 years and are unmarried. Now this should have swelled to more than a lakh. Some are marrying Hindus. Money is not available for marriage. Guarding community has become difficult.
Published in Muslim Murasu, December 2011
Islahi Mashira. Living together is essential. Man on one hand relates to God and on the other hand relates with his fellow human beings. Both are important. If he has love for God, it will certainly transform into unconditional love for fellow beings.
In Prophet’s opinion, best among human beings are those who have best character. They are those who are pleasant to others.
A lady was said to do prayers in excess. But people felt uncomfortable with her behavior with them. Another lady only met bare minimum needs when it comes to prayer. But she was more than amiable in her nature. People had good impression about her. Prophet told that the first lady will enter hell and the second will enter heaven.
Goodness in character is more important than mere ritualistic prayers. A good community is one in which people are good to each other.
Today we see people steeped in religious affinity increasing. Mosques are swelling. There are more worshipers. Spending for religion has increased. There are more men sporting beard and religious appearance. But hardships are also increasing. Muslims are humiliated and belittled. Muslims are not safe even in Muslim nations. They are killed and injured. This has never happened in Islamic history. What is the reason? On one hand Ibadath (worship) is increasing and on the other hand humiliations are mounting.
Sins will make Ibadath ineffective. This is Prophet’s view. A person is having jaundice. He is taking medicines. He also eats briyani and paaya. Medicines won’t help him. Ibadath will become wasted because of wrong deeds and improprieties.
A time will come when people will cry and pray from their hearts. But their prayers won’t be answered. Allah will say that your flesh, blood and skin are from haraam (forbidden) income. I won’t accept your prayers. Haraam income will nullify prayers.
Each one of us should seriously consider this. Which of Allah’s commands have we rejected or dishonored. Why do we face increasing difficulties and troubles.
Marriage, divorce and division of property – God’s commands are frequently breached in these three matters. Marriage has become a Muslim problem all over India. Now it is taking global dimensions.
Marriage is a very simple process in Islamic way. All that is needed is two witnesses. For Namaz, there is some requirement about dress. Dress should be clean and proper. One has to travel to do Haj. Money is needed to give Jakath. But one can marry without a penny.
Nikah is an Ibadath. This is a historic mosque. If a person requests to open a textile shop here, we won’t accept. We won’t accept even if he offers to pack it off during Jumah time.
Prophet told to announce marriage and arrange it in mosque. Some narrations tell that marriage of Fathima (rali) was conducted in mosque. Nikah is an Ibadath. So it is recommended to conduct it in mosque.
Kutba (sermon) is organized during Jumah, Haj and during heavy rains. Kutba is associated with worship. No one will conduct Kutba before starting for market or shopping. Prophet has recommended Kutba with marriage.
Nikah is Prophet’s sunnath. His way. “Marriage is my Sunnath. Whoever breaches my Sunnath does not belong to me”. What does this mean.
We have to do Namaz like Prophet did. Sajda increases intimacy with God. But we cannot do four Sajda in a rakaath. Offering Namaz as we wish is not permitted. We cannot offer four rakaath in Magrib.
Nikah is Prophet’s Sunnath. Sunnath is to follow Prophet exactly. We have to follow his way completely. Our personal and individual desires and ideas are not permitted.
In God’s view, marriage with less expenditure brings more Barakath. Our standard is violating from Prophet’s standard. Our views are completely differing.
We invite everyone for marriage. We invite even our enemies, distant relatives, those with whom we are not in speaking terms, and those with whom we have bitter relationship and those with whom we are not in touch. We nearly force them to attend marriage. But only two do not get any invitation – God and His Prophet.
Barakath differs according to context. In terms of money, Barakath is to have maximum needs fulfilled with minimum amount. For health, Barakath is to lead healthy life without disease.
Barakath in marriage is to look forward to tension-free life, intimate and soulful relationship, peaceful days and good children.
Today each house is beset with disputes. There is clash between wife and mother-in-law. There are differences between husband and wife. ‘La thaskunu alaiha’ – purpose is peace and harmony. This is God’s intention. When a man enters his house, he should find a peaceful atmosphere. He should get rid of tension. But now situation is equally turbulent in outer world and inside house. People are engulfed with tension and restlessness.
Reason is that we rejected Prophet’s way of marriage. Bounty and Barakath in Nikah has left us.
Spouse should be like Libaas (raiment). Raiment will give beauty and decency. It is a matter of pride for a man if his wife binds his relations. Dress gives protection from heat, cold, rain and dust. Spouse should protect secrets and property. She will hide her husband’s weaknesses. Dress will hide scars and wounds. We see that weaknesses of wife are revealed to everyone in the house. A person who does not find peace in his house cannot make it big in life.
God has been extremely kind and beneficent to the mission of two Prophets. They are Ibrahim (alai) and Muhammad (sal). Their wives supported their mission and were obedient. They offered help and support. So their mission met with great success.
Dawath of two Prophets did not find great success. There was nothing missing in their efforts or characters. Their wives were unbelievers and disobedient. Nooh (alai) and Lut (alai).
If a person is not ably supported by mother, wife and daughter, he cannot achieve anything big. There should be support from this faculty.
Each Muslim house is beset with disputes and fights. Main reason is extravagant marriages, spending too much during marriages.
Abubakkar and Umar (rali) asked for the hand of Prophet’s daughter Fathima (rali). Prophet gently declined. Umar and Usman suggested Ali (rali) to express his desire. Prophet accepted. Message is that if we offer to marry a woman and the offer is declined, we should not take it in bitter taste and make it a cause for enmity. Nowadays they stop talking afterwards. Talks about relation should originate from groom’s side. Groom’s family should start the discussion. Today, the situation is reverse. Prophet expressed his desire to marry Ayisha. Except Kathija, Prophet initiated marriage talks for all other wives. Bride’s family is not a disgraced family. Groom’s side should talk respectfully.
Four Sahabas (companions) have contributed immensely to Islamic mission. Prophet married daughters of Abubakkar and Umar (rali) and gave his daughters in marriage to Usman and Ali (rali).
During Ali’s marriage, shield was auctioned for Mehar. It was sold for 800 Dirham. Usman bought it and gave the money. Usman gave the shield back as marriage gift. Some money was handed over to Bilal (rali) to buy some materials that are essential to set up a house. 300 Dirham remained. Prophet told Ali that in the event of separation from Fathima, he should pay atleast a portion of Mehar. Scholars infer that during divorce, atleast a portion of Mehar should be compulsorily returned. Marriage took place in Masjid-un-nabavi. Prophet personally escorted his daughter that evening to Ali’s house. He advised Ali that he should take care of all external works hereafter. Prophet told Fathima that she should take care of all household works from this day.
Abbas is Prophets uncle. He had converted to Islam and was staying in Meccah. Prophet did not see it necessary to invite him. Man should not eat from his wife’s property and earning. Prophet’s son-in-law worked and earned. It is man’s duty to earn for his family. Prophet laid stress on this. They got children like Hasan and Husain (rali). Their family flourished.
When halaal is made difficult, haraam will become easy. If loan is difficult, usury will be cheap. If marriage is difficult, indecency will become common. A survey taken many years back revealed that there are 40000 Muslim women in the city who are more than 30 years and are unmarried. Now this should have swelled to more than a lakh. Some are marrying Hindus. Money is not available for marriage. Guarding community has become difficult.
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