Muslim Murasu, July 2012
Indian Constitution Article 30 guarantees rights for religious, linguistic minorities. They can run their educational institutions autonomously. This is a fundamental right.
Hundreds of different judgments by High Courts and Supreme Court have interpreted the law in different ways. The law that should aid minorities has become an impediment for them.
Weaker sections should be helped, given concessions and a helping hand. This humane expectation has no takers. Muslims are misunderstood. In the same way, Article 30 is being given wrong interpretations. Frequent judgments by courts have made Article 30 murkier.
Article 30 paves way to start religious, educational institutions. Government will not interfere; it will not help. Some legal experts explain it this way.
Government levies tax. It holds huge funds. Prices are raised five times a year. Government has not showed any control. Police force and courts play helping hands for government activities.
People who have not received adequate education or employment go to streets and agitate. Imprisonments, malafide cases and tortures continue.
It is imperative to develop proper understanding of government, government machinery. Government employees and officers cannot receive any relief for their own sake in their own offices without begging, struggling and spending. Rajiv Gandhi rightly said that when government spends 100 rupees, only 15 rupees reach actual beneficiary.
Muslim community should pay attention to opportunities in private sector. They should focus on schools, higher educational institutions, employment centers, trade cooperation and monetary help from abroad.
Government help in future is improbable. Agitations won’t help. No one is going to listen. Politics has become hunting grounds of middlemen. Tamil Muslim society should identify middlemen and raise institutions. They should prepare themselves to harvest and taste the fruits offered by private sector.
July 27, 2012
July 24, 2012
IT Has Not Benefited People
Muslim Murasu, July 2012
Information Technology revolution has gained traction in India since past ten years.
Skyscrapers, air-conditioned campuses, slick employees, western looks and
attires, these have been taking the nation forward. People involved in IT
sector are isolated as those advanced at social level. IT corridors have become
popular as islands of growth in cities like Hyderabad, Bangalore and Chennai.
IT has not given any small improvement in day to day lives
of Tamil people. There is no way to know availability of next bus. City is
spread over 150 km. Traffic jams, accidents, people stranded on the roads are
not taken care. IT has not solved any problem of the land or issue in Mohalla.
IT experts have developed as labor force for foreign
countries. Such elites don’t help villages. IT development has narrowed down to
benefit a select class in the society. A citizen applying for ration card has
to struggle for months together. Relief is not granted in 10 minutes. There are
no answers or actions for name missing, address change or procuring income
certificate. IT department is teetering without strength in social sector. IT
has not met expectations of seven crore Tamil population. There are no portals
for consumers to know about water quantity in the city, distribution, breaks or
leaks in pipes, mixing, repair, liters of water distributed daily. IT caters to
the demands of those who are well advanced in life. IT professionals are toiling
day and night for mammoth profits of multinational behemoths.
IT use for the people should be exposed. Social
intellectuals should take this seriously. Modern looters are plundering in the
garb of IT. Tax money of public is wasted. IT professionals are growing into a
isolated caste, separate group, in Tamil society. IT sector is silently,
strongly and resolutely ravaging the noble culture, ethos, heritage and
traditions of Tamil society.
July 20, 2012
Walk With Humility
Dr. Syed Aleem Ashraf Jaisi speech at The Quran Foundation venue
Published in Muslim Murasu, July 2012
Purpose of Quran is to make human beings better. Science and technology cannot do this. They will teach us to fly better than birds and swim better than fishes. They can give submarines and supersonic planes. But only Quran and Sunnath will teach us to live like humans. Zenith of humanity is not in flying or swimming. Man’s nobility lies in living a life as servant of Allah.
Surah 25, Furqan, verse 63 – ‘wa ibadur rahman illazeena yamshuna alal arli hawnan wa iza katabuhumul jahiluna qalu salama’. This verse refers to special kind of servants. Allah connects them to Himself. ‘ibadur rahman’. People walking with humility are noble. They won’t walk with their chest puffed out. They won’t look arrogant or egotistic. They will lower their gazes and have their heads low. Nowadays people go in motorcycles often. They can follow this verse by leaving pedestrians their way. Horns should not be sounded in silent zones. Dirty water should not be splashed on wayfarers. Even if you sit in airplanes, sit with humility and piety. Humility is noble quality of Allah’s servants. Some people run companies, but they don’t know how to behave with fellowmen. Learn first to stand, sit and walk properly.
Verse continues. If Jahil (ignorant) address them, they will say ‘Salaam’ and stay clear of them. They will avoid trivial fights and discussions. When someone seeks truth, it is appropriate to explain to him. But if you discuss with Jahil, it will only make his heart more rigid. Your time will be wasted. Jahil here refers intolerant people. Usually people who are debating will be learned ones. But the person involving in frivolous debates is a Jahil, fool, in Allah’s view. Even if they start the discussion, you say ‘Salaam’ and avoid them.
Mumin should strive to learn and guide others. But debates are unnecessary. Nafs (ego) will seek debates. They won’t talk to please Allah. Intention will be to defeat opponent. Ego thrives by defeating others. Neither will gain. Shaitan will rejoice. Debates only benefits him. Shaitan will stoke debates. If you pray for show-off, Shaitan will push you towards mosque. But he will stop some people from entering mosque. Shaitan always pushes men towards greater sin. Some people celebrate Milad for self-publicity. Celebrating Milad is not a mandatory duty. But if one celebrates for fame, he is doing a sin. Shaitan sometimes involves us in bad deeds in the name of religion. Some people will do backbiting in the name of speaking truth.
Heart is the bridegroom. Body is only decoration. Allah sees the heart. We are concerning ourselves with unimportant things. More discussions are held about appearances and cosmetic things. Pyjama length has become centre of debate. Allah does not see your appearance. We should be more concerned about our hearts and thoughts.
This verse says, ‘they will walk in humility’. Humility is not only in appearance, but also in heart. Those who seek to learn engineering should look for appropriate training, books and college. We have to prepare ourselves and inculcate qualities that will make us Kalipha, Allah’s vicegerent, in this world. We have to work on five aspects to become Allah’s Kalipha – Aqeeda, Ibadat, Mamulat, Aqlaq and Adab.
Foundation is needed for any building. Life is based on Aqeeda, creed, core principle. Aqeeda of Muslims is different from other religions. This creed is very strong. Sky-high buildings can be constructed on this. We have to believe in Allah, Prophets, Akhirat, Angels and Taqdeer. Each have their requisites.
We should have faith in Allah’s Wahdaniyat (Oneness), Rububiyat (Cherisher), Uluhiyat (Godliness). ‘laisa kamislihi shaiya’. No one is like Allah. Allah does not need residence. Arsh is not required for him. To say Allah stays in some place is against Tawheed. ‘Arrahman alal arshistava’. Rahman is established on Arsh (throne). This Ayath is Mutashabihat. We cannot understand this.
Khadir (Capable), Aleem (Wise), Murid (Wishes), these are His attributes. ‘fa’alu lima yasha’. He fulfills His wishes. We have to accept Allah, His attributes, and this should reflect in our lives. We can’t taste sweetness just by saying sugar. Just reciting Kalima is not beneficial. We cannot become Muslims just by saying ‘amantu billahi’. We have to accept Allah’s Khudrat (power) and Taqdeer (fate). We are trying to solve all our demands by our own efforts. We are buying one house when the first child is born, second house for the second child and so on. We have more faith in insurance policies. One who believes in fate won’t count much on insurance schemes. Taking efforts is good. But believing entirely in our efforts is not good. You have to accept fate.
Published in Muslim Murasu, July 2012
Purpose of Quran is to make human beings better. Science and technology cannot do this. They will teach us to fly better than birds and swim better than fishes. They can give submarines and supersonic planes. But only Quran and Sunnath will teach us to live like humans. Zenith of humanity is not in flying or swimming. Man’s nobility lies in living a life as servant of Allah.
Surah 25, Furqan, verse 63 – ‘wa ibadur rahman illazeena yamshuna alal arli hawnan wa iza katabuhumul jahiluna qalu salama’. This verse refers to special kind of servants. Allah connects them to Himself. ‘ibadur rahman’. People walking with humility are noble. They won’t walk with their chest puffed out. They won’t look arrogant or egotistic. They will lower their gazes and have their heads low. Nowadays people go in motorcycles often. They can follow this verse by leaving pedestrians their way. Horns should not be sounded in silent zones. Dirty water should not be splashed on wayfarers. Even if you sit in airplanes, sit with humility and piety. Humility is noble quality of Allah’s servants. Some people run companies, but they don’t know how to behave with fellowmen. Learn first to stand, sit and walk properly.
Verse continues. If Jahil (ignorant) address them, they will say ‘Salaam’ and stay clear of them. They will avoid trivial fights and discussions. When someone seeks truth, it is appropriate to explain to him. But if you discuss with Jahil, it will only make his heart more rigid. Your time will be wasted. Jahil here refers intolerant people. Usually people who are debating will be learned ones. But the person involving in frivolous debates is a Jahil, fool, in Allah’s view. Even if they start the discussion, you say ‘Salaam’ and avoid them.
Mumin should strive to learn and guide others. But debates are unnecessary. Nafs (ego) will seek debates. They won’t talk to please Allah. Intention will be to defeat opponent. Ego thrives by defeating others. Neither will gain. Shaitan will rejoice. Debates only benefits him. Shaitan will stoke debates. If you pray for show-off, Shaitan will push you towards mosque. But he will stop some people from entering mosque. Shaitan always pushes men towards greater sin. Some people celebrate Milad for self-publicity. Celebrating Milad is not a mandatory duty. But if one celebrates for fame, he is doing a sin. Shaitan sometimes involves us in bad deeds in the name of religion. Some people will do backbiting in the name of speaking truth.
Heart is the bridegroom. Body is only decoration. Allah sees the heart. We are concerning ourselves with unimportant things. More discussions are held about appearances and cosmetic things. Pyjama length has become centre of debate. Allah does not see your appearance. We should be more concerned about our hearts and thoughts.
This verse says, ‘they will walk in humility’. Humility is not only in appearance, but also in heart. Those who seek to learn engineering should look for appropriate training, books and college. We have to prepare ourselves and inculcate qualities that will make us Kalipha, Allah’s vicegerent, in this world. We have to work on five aspects to become Allah’s Kalipha – Aqeeda, Ibadat, Mamulat, Aqlaq and Adab.
Foundation is needed for any building. Life is based on Aqeeda, creed, core principle. Aqeeda of Muslims is different from other religions. This creed is very strong. Sky-high buildings can be constructed on this. We have to believe in Allah, Prophets, Akhirat, Angels and Taqdeer. Each have their requisites.
We should have faith in Allah’s Wahdaniyat (Oneness), Rububiyat (Cherisher), Uluhiyat (Godliness). ‘laisa kamislihi shaiya’. No one is like Allah. Allah does not need residence. Arsh is not required for him. To say Allah stays in some place is against Tawheed. ‘Arrahman alal arshistava’. Rahman is established on Arsh (throne). This Ayath is Mutashabihat. We cannot understand this.
Khadir (Capable), Aleem (Wise), Murid (Wishes), these are His attributes. ‘fa’alu lima yasha’. He fulfills His wishes. We have to accept Allah, His attributes, and this should reflect in our lives. We can’t taste sweetness just by saying sugar. Just reciting Kalima is not beneficial. We cannot become Muslims just by saying ‘amantu billahi’. We have to accept Allah’s Khudrat (power) and Taqdeer (fate). We are trying to solve all our demands by our own efforts. We are buying one house when the first child is born, second house for the second child and so on. We have more faith in insurance policies. One who believes in fate won’t count much on insurance schemes. Taking efforts is good. But believing entirely in our efforts is not good. You have to accept fate.
July 18, 2012
Don't Allow Caste Intrusion
Muslim Murasu, July 2012
Governments are persistently involved in penetrating caste. Honorable M.G.R suggested to base demarcations on economic status. The idea was not implemented due to reaction from politicians.
Muslim preachers and intellectuals have no need to point fingers at other religions and their elements. Let us keep our house clean. Caste differences among Muslims following Islam have been kept under control. Differences, higher-lower dynamics, racial divisions have not been completely eliminated among Muslims. Native affinity and language are important reasons. Weekly Juma sermons have been bringing unity in Muslim society. Selfless service by Islamic missionary groups is continuously uniting servants of God. Caste is not allowed to enter. Caste is another form of Shirk, blasphemy. Narrow mindedness will not succeed.
Muslims in Tamilnadu are having to carry caste identities due to government stipulation. Let us limit caste to certificates. Caste divisions should not enter Mohalla. Government has not provided any guarantee for employment. All concessions based on caste are looting rights of another soul. Is caste important or Islamic ideology important? It is time Muslims in Tamilnadu decide. Hard work, self dependency, frugality, well-wishes from others and God’s grace only can give us life and help us grow. Rulers are forcefully staging drama to distract people. Caste based census and community certificate in schools are part of this farcical drama. Muslims should limit using caste lingo to certificate registration. Declining caste division is core principle in Islam. There should not be any weakness in this. When Muslims in Tamilnadu gain political strength, government will be appropriately guided. Attributes of Shirk will completely vanish. Recent Wahhabi ideas have decimated political strength of Tamil Muslims. Cruel consequences are reflected as community certificates in Muslim hands and caste identity on foreheads. Tawheed frontrunners caused divisions. Political ground was lost. Let us defeat the politics of dominant forces that permeate caste mentality.
Governments are persistently involved in penetrating caste. Honorable M.G.R suggested to base demarcations on economic status. The idea was not implemented due to reaction from politicians.
Muslim preachers and intellectuals have no need to point fingers at other religions and their elements. Let us keep our house clean. Caste differences among Muslims following Islam have been kept under control. Differences, higher-lower dynamics, racial divisions have not been completely eliminated among Muslims. Native affinity and language are important reasons. Weekly Juma sermons have been bringing unity in Muslim society. Selfless service by Islamic missionary groups is continuously uniting servants of God. Caste is not allowed to enter. Caste is another form of Shirk, blasphemy. Narrow mindedness will not succeed.
Muslims in Tamilnadu are having to carry caste identities due to government stipulation. Let us limit caste to certificates. Caste divisions should not enter Mohalla. Government has not provided any guarantee for employment. All concessions based on caste are looting rights of another soul. Is caste important or Islamic ideology important? It is time Muslims in Tamilnadu decide. Hard work, self dependency, frugality, well-wishes from others and God’s grace only can give us life and help us grow. Rulers are forcefully staging drama to distract people. Caste based census and community certificate in schools are part of this farcical drama. Muslims should limit using caste lingo to certificate registration. Declining caste division is core principle in Islam. There should not be any weakness in this. When Muslims in Tamilnadu gain political strength, government will be appropriately guided. Attributes of Shirk will completely vanish. Recent Wahhabi ideas have decimated political strength of Tamil Muslims. Cruel consequences are reflected as community certificates in Muslim hands and caste identity on foreheads. Tawheed frontrunners caused divisions. Political ground was lost. Let us defeat the politics of dominant forces that permeate caste mentality.
July 16, 2012
Will Government Patronize Religion
Muslim Murasu, July 2012
Budgetary allocation to Hindu Aranilaya Thurai exposes orientation of the state government towards Hinduism. Government should be pro-religion. There is no need to hide the face. Christianity preaching is dominating private television landscape. Pure love for religion of Christians cannot be declined by citing foreign donations as the reason. They are involving their whole families in preaching. Christian priests mostly base their speeches on simple and honest life and are inducing Bible messages in Tamil society with quick pace. In the state that was until recently dominated by atheism, people are made to realize the need to take refuge in God. New religious premises and educational institutions are vying and successfully competing with the strong government. All are part of the scheme to injecting discipline. We wholeheartedly appreciate them. Selfish, narcissistic, greedy lives of politicians in Tamilnadu has not strengthened Hindu religious preaching. On the contrary, it has decimated instruments of preaching. Rites and rituals are exhibited as religious preaching here. Muslims and Christians do not get trapped in selfish, political, ugly fights. Using religion for personal publicity is totally avoided here. Looter, hypocrites are kept at bay in this way. Those indulging in political vengeance, economic greed, misuse of power are completely eliminated from public life. This is strength of religion. Success stories of those affectionate towards religion inspire and reinforce public trust in religion. The incumbent state government supports religion. Muslims in Tamilnadu should rightly use the opportunity and take preaching to next level. Christian example should be held in mind and commitment should be made to convert all family members into flag bearers of Muslim principles. Religious devotion will bring peace in life. Greed will be doused. Humanity will blossom. 65 years of state government in Tamilnadu has never helped Islamic missionary works. Nevertheless, Muslims have spent their hard earned money to give life to religion. Foremost duty now for Muslim society is to reduce its personal needs further and invite everyone towards God.
Muslim Murasu has stepped in its 65th year. Alhamdulillah. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all supporting sponsors and readers.
Budgetary allocation to Hindu Aranilaya Thurai exposes orientation of the state government towards Hinduism. Government should be pro-religion. There is no need to hide the face. Christianity preaching is dominating private television landscape. Pure love for religion of Christians cannot be declined by citing foreign donations as the reason. They are involving their whole families in preaching. Christian priests mostly base their speeches on simple and honest life and are inducing Bible messages in Tamil society with quick pace. In the state that was until recently dominated by atheism, people are made to realize the need to take refuge in God. New religious premises and educational institutions are vying and successfully competing with the strong government. All are part of the scheme to injecting discipline. We wholeheartedly appreciate them. Selfish, narcissistic, greedy lives of politicians in Tamilnadu has not strengthened Hindu religious preaching. On the contrary, it has decimated instruments of preaching. Rites and rituals are exhibited as religious preaching here. Muslims and Christians do not get trapped in selfish, political, ugly fights. Using religion for personal publicity is totally avoided here. Looter, hypocrites are kept at bay in this way. Those indulging in political vengeance, economic greed, misuse of power are completely eliminated from public life. This is strength of religion. Success stories of those affectionate towards religion inspire and reinforce public trust in religion. The incumbent state government supports religion. Muslims in Tamilnadu should rightly use the opportunity and take preaching to next level. Christian example should be held in mind and commitment should be made to convert all family members into flag bearers of Muslim principles. Religious devotion will bring peace in life. Greed will be doused. Humanity will blossom. 65 years of state government in Tamilnadu has never helped Islamic missionary works. Nevertheless, Muslims have spent their hard earned money to give life to religion. Foremost duty now for Muslim society is to reduce its personal needs further and invite everyone towards God.
Muslim Murasu has stepped in its 65th year. Alhamdulillah. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all supporting sponsors and readers.
July 14, 2012
Can Vasvasa Be Stopped
Juma speech at Jambazar mosque, Royapettah, Chennai
Muslim Murasu, June 2012
Sinful thoughts rise in mind. Accountability and punishment starts when one acts on those thoughts. Seek Allah’s protection if you get evil thoughts.
Yusuf (alai) got some Vasvasa (erroneous thoughts) once. He was going through a period of tribulation at that time. Yusuf(alai) prayed. Surah 12, Yusuf, verse 33 – “wa illa tasrif anni kaidahunna asbu ilaihinna wa akun minal jahilin”. “Unless You turn away their snare from me, I should feel inclined towards them and join the ranks of the ignorant”.
Evil thoughts do occur to man. Protection should be sought from Allah. Commitment should be made not to step on wrong path. You won’t be at any loss just because of thoughts.
While in Namaz, one may get distracted by job and money related thoughts. Man has no control over them. This is beyond his powers. He won’t be punished for this. Turn your attention towards prayer. Correct your Niyyath while starting Takbir. You will get control from practice. Don’t feel disappointed. Namaz is Allah’s gift. Be thankful to Allah. Don’t feel dejected that there is no soul in your prayer. Getting distracted is not a sin. There is no punishment for this.
Imam Gazzali (rah) used to conduct Namaz. His brother declined to accept his Imamath and pray behind him. Complaint went to their mother. “Imam Gazzali is often thinking about Masa’il during his prayer”. Mother said, “Gazzali is thinking about Fiqh and Masa’il. You are thinking about Gazzali in prayer”. It is not wrong to think about Quran, its meaning, explanation, during Namaz. Let thoughts not wander towards other things. Thoughts related to Ibadat are not mistakes. But worldly thoughts should be avoided.
If the thoughts become very perfect during Namaz, then one may feel proud. They may claim that they are receiving ‘wahi’. That is the reason all don’t get perfect control over thoughts during prayer. This is Allah’s wisdom. This is Allah’s arrangement. Some may feel proud and claim they are Mahadi.
Some people get recurring thoughts to do some bad deed. But they control themselves everytime. They will be rewarded for this. On the other hand, even thinking about doing good will fetch rewards. This is Allah’s Mercy.
Once a Sahabi asked Prophet about vasvasa related to Kufr, Shirk and Fisk. Prophet told that this is Alamath (sign) of Imaan. Don’t be scared.
Robber will target only wealthy houses. Shaitan will attack only good hearts. Shaitan will try to steal Imaan. Prophet told in one Hadees, ‘Thanks to God. Shaitan’s evil methods are restricted to vasvasa’. This won’t cause huge damage. A person is asked by king to meet him. He sets off to meet the king. Many people interfere him in his way for trivial matters. An intelligent person will ignore them and give priority to meet the king.
Muslim Murasu, June 2012
Sinful thoughts rise in mind. Accountability and punishment starts when one acts on those thoughts. Seek Allah’s protection if you get evil thoughts.
Yusuf (alai) got some Vasvasa (erroneous thoughts) once. He was going through a period of tribulation at that time. Yusuf(alai) prayed. Surah 12, Yusuf, verse 33 – “wa illa tasrif anni kaidahunna asbu ilaihinna wa akun minal jahilin”. “Unless You turn away their snare from me, I should feel inclined towards them and join the ranks of the ignorant”.
Evil thoughts do occur to man. Protection should be sought from Allah. Commitment should be made not to step on wrong path. You won’t be at any loss just because of thoughts.
While in Namaz, one may get distracted by job and money related thoughts. Man has no control over them. This is beyond his powers. He won’t be punished for this. Turn your attention towards prayer. Correct your Niyyath while starting Takbir. You will get control from practice. Don’t feel disappointed. Namaz is Allah’s gift. Be thankful to Allah. Don’t feel dejected that there is no soul in your prayer. Getting distracted is not a sin. There is no punishment for this.
Imam Gazzali (rah) used to conduct Namaz. His brother declined to accept his Imamath and pray behind him. Complaint went to their mother. “Imam Gazzali is often thinking about Masa’il during his prayer”. Mother said, “Gazzali is thinking about Fiqh and Masa’il. You are thinking about Gazzali in prayer”. It is not wrong to think about Quran, its meaning, explanation, during Namaz. Let thoughts not wander towards other things. Thoughts related to Ibadat are not mistakes. But worldly thoughts should be avoided.
If the thoughts become very perfect during Namaz, then one may feel proud. They may claim that they are receiving ‘wahi’. That is the reason all don’t get perfect control over thoughts during prayer. This is Allah’s wisdom. This is Allah’s arrangement. Some may feel proud and claim they are Mahadi.
Some people get recurring thoughts to do some bad deed. But they control themselves everytime. They will be rewarded for this. On the other hand, even thinking about doing good will fetch rewards. This is Allah’s Mercy.
Once a Sahabi asked Prophet about vasvasa related to Kufr, Shirk and Fisk. Prophet told that this is Alamath (sign) of Imaan. Don’t be scared.
Robber will target only wealthy houses. Shaitan will attack only good hearts. Shaitan will try to steal Imaan. Prophet told in one Hadees, ‘Thanks to God. Shaitan’s evil methods are restricted to vasvasa’. This won’t cause huge damage. A person is asked by king to meet him. He sets off to meet the king. Many people interfere him in his way for trivial matters. An intelligent person will ignore them and give priority to meet the king.
Descent In Discourse
Muslim Murasu, June 2012
Quran is an Arabic book. Lengthy training, expertise in grammar, knowledge of timelines and history and grasp over contemporary needs are needed to give discourse on Quran. No religious institution can impart such training within few years. It is important that learner has deep interest. One person can give sermon. It is better that all others stay silent and listen. However, speaker should relentlessly look for successors, next generation candidates. In the time given for him, speaker can invite promising candidates to don the dais for few minutes. Their mistakes can be corrected and their skills honed. Once the training is complete, they can be blessed and sent to new Mohalla to give discourse there. Producing ten candidates from each Mohalla will remove the paucity in discourses in Tamilnadu. It is the responsibility of the people of the Mohalla to make sure that the preacher has no unmet personal needs or issues. Preacher should be given a permanent residence, electricity expenditures, necessary rations, dresses and marriage needs should be addressed. People seeking to learn religion shall learn Quran completely. Ignoring Quran and getting attached to some other books won’t help any Mohalla.
In spite of a long term veteran giving Quran discourse in Chennai Ice House, which inhabits a lakh Muslims, hardly 30 Muslims assemble. Audience are left in the lurch because of discourses not conducted regularly. Haj is a duty to be undertaken once in a lifetime. Because some philanthropist donates money and friendship, preachers rush to Haj and Umra pilgrimage. Weekly Quran discourse in the Mohalla is left to suffer. Sometimes absence is due to visit to native place. Death of a relative, wedding occasions and illness sometimes become impediments to weekly discourses. Listeners who wait and feel disappointed prepare themselves to ignore the session altogether in future. Preacher’s job does not end with giving sermon. He should knock each door in the Mohalla and invite everyone personally. The fact that the elder has come to their home will weigh on their mind and force even a lazy person into Quran circle. Preacher, after earning some fame, money and influence, jump to next bigger Mohalla. Gathering crowd should not be the intention. Thrusting the message is important. Quran discourses organized by organizations, trusts and movements have failed miserably. Rather than attracting servants of God, target shifts to enrolling cadres for the organization. Everyone should analyze the reasons of the descent in Quran discourse.
Quran is an Arabic book. Lengthy training, expertise in grammar, knowledge of timelines and history and grasp over contemporary needs are needed to give discourse on Quran. No religious institution can impart such training within few years. It is important that learner has deep interest. One person can give sermon. It is better that all others stay silent and listen. However, speaker should relentlessly look for successors, next generation candidates. In the time given for him, speaker can invite promising candidates to don the dais for few minutes. Their mistakes can be corrected and their skills honed. Once the training is complete, they can be blessed and sent to new Mohalla to give discourse there. Producing ten candidates from each Mohalla will remove the paucity in discourses in Tamilnadu. It is the responsibility of the people of the Mohalla to make sure that the preacher has no unmet personal needs or issues. Preacher should be given a permanent residence, electricity expenditures, necessary rations, dresses and marriage needs should be addressed. People seeking to learn religion shall learn Quran completely. Ignoring Quran and getting attached to some other books won’t help any Mohalla.
In spite of a long term veteran giving Quran discourse in Chennai Ice House, which inhabits a lakh Muslims, hardly 30 Muslims assemble. Audience are left in the lurch because of discourses not conducted regularly. Haj is a duty to be undertaken once in a lifetime. Because some philanthropist donates money and friendship, preachers rush to Haj and Umra pilgrimage. Weekly Quran discourse in the Mohalla is left to suffer. Sometimes absence is due to visit to native place. Death of a relative, wedding occasions and illness sometimes become impediments to weekly discourses. Listeners who wait and feel disappointed prepare themselves to ignore the session altogether in future. Preacher’s job does not end with giving sermon. He should knock each door in the Mohalla and invite everyone personally. The fact that the elder has come to their home will weigh on their mind and force even a lazy person into Quran circle. Preacher, after earning some fame, money and influence, jump to next bigger Mohalla. Gathering crowd should not be the intention. Thrusting the message is important. Quran discourses organized by organizations, trusts and movements have failed miserably. Rather than attracting servants of God, target shifts to enrolling cadres for the organization. Everyone should analyze the reasons of the descent in Quran discourse.
July 11, 2012
Tamilnadu Losing Rationalism
Muslim Murasu, June 2012
It is copyrighted property of Tamilans to waste time talking useless issues. Change in library complex swallowed two months. Debate about assembly building wasted two months. American resolution condemning Sri Lanka killed two months. Mullai Periyar dam gave relief for two months. Koodankulam reactor came handy for two months. By-elections in Tamilnadu took away two months in arguments and counter arguments. Local and Municipal elections entertained us for two months. Unemployment is the pressing problem in Tamilnadu. Foreign investments of thousands of crores of rupees is generating only few hundred jobs. Extra parties, opposition parties, casteist parties, ruling parties, national parties, Hindutva parties, every party should pay more attention in the well-being of Tamil society. Rationalism is not helping when drunkards are more in number. Youth are engrossed in cinema culture and stage dances.
More than ten lakh North Indian youth have descended on Tamilnadu as construction labors along with their families. Tamilans are not physically competitive. Tamil owners employ youngsters from Andhra and North India. Caste based census is another dimension of diversionary tactics. Politicians wrongfully cultivate hatred towards Karnataka, Andhra and Kerala in the hearts of Tamil people. This is detrimental to national unity. Protests and condemnations against senior national heads like Prime Minister, Finance Minister and Home Minister are farcical. Employment generation has not kept pace with surge in engineering colleges. The sycophantic theory that one person can solve all problems is ravaging rationalism in Tamilnadu. Tamil leaders should fully cooperate with tri-lingual policy. Tamilans should be given the opportunity to learn national language, international language and mother tongue. Tamilans need this. This will help them to find livelihood in any part of the globe. Three languages is imperative. This will bring light in the lives of Tamilans.
It is copyrighted property of Tamilans to waste time talking useless issues. Change in library complex swallowed two months. Debate about assembly building wasted two months. American resolution condemning Sri Lanka killed two months. Mullai Periyar dam gave relief for two months. Koodankulam reactor came handy for two months. By-elections in Tamilnadu took away two months in arguments and counter arguments. Local and Municipal elections entertained us for two months. Unemployment is the pressing problem in Tamilnadu. Foreign investments of thousands of crores of rupees is generating only few hundred jobs. Extra parties, opposition parties, casteist parties, ruling parties, national parties, Hindutva parties, every party should pay more attention in the well-being of Tamil society. Rationalism is not helping when drunkards are more in number. Youth are engrossed in cinema culture and stage dances.
More than ten lakh North Indian youth have descended on Tamilnadu as construction labors along with their families. Tamilans are not physically competitive. Tamil owners employ youngsters from Andhra and North India. Caste based census is another dimension of diversionary tactics. Politicians wrongfully cultivate hatred towards Karnataka, Andhra and Kerala in the hearts of Tamil people. This is detrimental to national unity. Protests and condemnations against senior national heads like Prime Minister, Finance Minister and Home Minister are farcical. Employment generation has not kept pace with surge in engineering colleges. The sycophantic theory that one person can solve all problems is ravaging rationalism in Tamilnadu. Tamil leaders should fully cooperate with tri-lingual policy. Tamilans should be given the opportunity to learn national language, international language and mother tongue. Tamilans need this. This will help them to find livelihood in any part of the globe. Three languages is imperative. This will bring light in the lives of Tamilans.
Stop Strikes, Bandhs
Muslim Murasu, June 2012
Foreign investments keep surging in Tamilnadu. Peaceful, cultural life in Tamilnadu has the ability to attract foreigners. For the economic development of the region, it is important to have unhindered supply of facilities pertaining to transport, electricity, drinking water and healthcare. Frequent strikes, forced closures, Bandhs, fasting, public meetings, protests will impair state’s industrial growth. Democratic methods are today used as a tool to distract public. Freedom of ideas and ideology is no more needed for political parties. Almost all political parties have fallen in line with capitalist mentality. There is no ideological trouble or difference. Prices will soar. Petrol price will throttle. Education fee will skyrocket. There is no chance to check arrogance and extravagance of rulers. There is no conflict in economic ideas between ruling party and the party that lost. Fracas in assembly, marching out, useless road rokos won’t impress public. Passengers repulsively look at public meetings. They don’t support such politics. Drinking water problem can be approached in two ways. Traditional methods of reservoirs, wells, ponds and lakes can be used to store rainwater in Tamilnadu. There won’t be need to beg other states. Saline ground water available in fiefdoms of other political parties can be accessed and scientifically treated to make it usable. But there is no clear policy among political parties in Tamilnadu. Only idea is that contractors in water business should prosper. This is the target. Party cadre can take advantage of water crisis and plunder money. This is practically the message. Ruling and opposition parties are colluding similarly in matters of power distribution, transport, urban-rural divide, employment, cinema scandals, poster culture, selfish and locality chauvinism, language and centre-state relation. There is no difference in ideas or in implementing them. In such opportunistic situation, political parties should spare troubling people. Police, courts and media are constantly being misused. Let people be given right to live and move freely. Bandhs, mass marches, dharnas should be completely banned.
Foreign investments keep surging in Tamilnadu. Peaceful, cultural life in Tamilnadu has the ability to attract foreigners. For the economic development of the region, it is important to have unhindered supply of facilities pertaining to transport, electricity, drinking water and healthcare. Frequent strikes, forced closures, Bandhs, fasting, public meetings, protests will impair state’s industrial growth. Democratic methods are today used as a tool to distract public. Freedom of ideas and ideology is no more needed for political parties. Almost all political parties have fallen in line with capitalist mentality. There is no ideological trouble or difference. Prices will soar. Petrol price will throttle. Education fee will skyrocket. There is no chance to check arrogance and extravagance of rulers. There is no conflict in economic ideas between ruling party and the party that lost. Fracas in assembly, marching out, useless road rokos won’t impress public. Passengers repulsively look at public meetings. They don’t support such politics. Drinking water problem can be approached in two ways. Traditional methods of reservoirs, wells, ponds and lakes can be used to store rainwater in Tamilnadu. There won’t be need to beg other states. Saline ground water available in fiefdoms of other political parties can be accessed and scientifically treated to make it usable. But there is no clear policy among political parties in Tamilnadu. Only idea is that contractors in water business should prosper. This is the target. Party cadre can take advantage of water crisis and plunder money. This is practically the message. Ruling and opposition parties are colluding similarly in matters of power distribution, transport, urban-rural divide, employment, cinema scandals, poster culture, selfish and locality chauvinism, language and centre-state relation. There is no difference in ideas or in implementing them. In such opportunistic situation, political parties should spare troubling people. Police, courts and media are constantly being misused. Let people be given right to live and move freely. Bandhs, mass marches, dharnas should be completely banned.
July 10, 2012
World Will Suffer For Our Actions
Weekly speech at Tableeghi Jamath Markaz Masjide Amina, Tolichowki, Hyderabad
Published in Muslim Murasu, June 2012
Allah is for the entire world. Prophet is for the entire world. This Ummath, you and I, are also for whole humanity. “ukrijath linnaas”. You have been raised for the benefit of entire humanity. We have gathered here in the concern of a peaceful and prosperous world. We are deliberating here for peace, tranquility, forbearing mindset, human rights, good qualities and faith in God for mankind. Arms are being sold in the name of peace. Good character will bring peace; weapons won’t give peace. Allah has taught us the methods for this.
We and our children are responsible for the entire world. Allah has made success in both the worlds, this world and the next, dependent on following Deen (religion). Tranquility of entire Muhalla rests on Deen. Sahabas were wallowing in the depths of ignorance. Murder and robbery were common. Religion transformed their lives. They used to wage war when one camel drank water out of turn. In Yarmuk battle, three Sahabas passed water to the next one when they themselves were dying. This is not a story. Their hearts changed. We have to think about this. This is the message of the religion.
Every situation arising in this world is tied to our actions. If we reform our activities, Allah will change the situation in the world for the better. If our activities are bad, world situation will deteriorate.
Surah 30, Rum, verse 41 – ‘jaharal fasaadu fil barri wal bahri bima kasabath aidinnaas’. Troubles have spread in land and ocean because of what men did. Here Muslims are referred. When a Muslim does something, first impact is on his heart and then the whole world tastes the consequence. When a bad deed is committed, a stain is laid on the heart. It will grow till the whole heart becomes dark. When good things are done, heart will glow. If Jakath is stopped, rain will stop. There will be paucity of water. When indecency becomes common in Ummath, new diseases with strange names will spread. These diseases are not due to pollution. Our actions will have consequences on this world. Allah has given us such a position. Our works are at locality level. But our concern should be for the world at large. We sit at family level or locality level for teachings and learning. But entire world will taste the benefit.
Prophet’s hard work brought good character, discipline, sacrificial mentality, loyalty, integrity and obedience in the lives of Sahabas. We are striving to bring these qualities in our lives through Dawath (missionary work). Our elders have analyzed Quran and Hadees and zeroed in on six qualities for focus. Intention is to follow Quran and Hadees in entirety.
First quality to focus is Kaamil Imaan, complete faith in God. We have faith. But it is not up to mark. A person can just be alive and spend his days on bed with others helping him while other person can be truly alive and live to the fullest. There is difference in being alive. There is a standard of Imaan that is expected and the one we possess. There is a huge gap. Allah expects complete faith from us. A person asks water to quench his thirst and you provide water in spoon. Our faith is very weak. This won’t fulfill our needs. This Imaan won’t give us strength to act upright. First focus should be to restore perfect Imaan in Ummath.
Creations can’t do you any harm or favor. All powers rest with Allah. All creatures are dependent on Him. The ways of Yahudis, Nasaras and Mushriks will give failure. This is next part of Imaan. Prophet’s commands will give us complete success. There is a palm’s gap between lip and heart. But rarely our words descend from lips into our hearts. Dawath is to speak Allah’s praise always. We should constantly talk about the reality of Deen, Akhirat and Allah’s powers at all places we go, be it school or college or office. Imaan will become complete when we openly talk about it. We get our food, health and air from Allah’s treasure. Surah 40, Mumin, verse 13 – ‘ va yunazzilulakum minas samayi rizkan’. He sends you sustenance from the sky. Allah is graceful. He has stored food for us for our lifetime in sky. He has it protected for us. Talk to Muslims about Imaan. Explain them the importance to follow Sunnath. We will be raised with the community that we follow in this world. A Hadees narrates that we will be with those in the Qayamath whom we loved in this world. Sahabas rejoiced after hearing this. Because they loved Prophet more than anything else. Man will follow whom he loves. Kaamil Imaan is to wish for our brother what we would wish for ourselves. We desire to escape from hell, from punishment and pain. Protect your family members, relatives, neighbors from the fire of hell. Surah 66, Tahreem, verse 6 – ‘ya ayyuhallazeena amanu ku anfusakum wa ahlikum naaran’. Save yourselves and your families from the fire. Do teachings and remembrance in your families. Involve your family members in Islamic works.
Second focus is on Namaz. It is not just to practice Namaz. We have to make it perfect. First question in Qayamat is about Namaz. Tajweed, Tasbeeh, Athiyat, Durood, all should be pronounced properly. You are talking with God. Talk correctly. Appearance and pronunciation should be correct. Abdullah ibn Zubair (rali) would stand erect like a pole while in Namaz. He learned Namaz from his grandfather Abubakkar (rali). He learned from Prophet. Once a person was toying with his beard while in prayer. If his heart was in correct place, his body would have been at peace.
Surah 23, Muminoon, verse 1-2 – ‘qad aflahal muminunallazeena hum fi salathihim gashioon’. “The believers must win through; those who humble themselves in prayer”. Gushu means to have heart focused and delighted in prayer. It is not proper to scratch during prayer. If heart is focused, they will become inheritors of paradise. They will enter Jannathul Firdous, loftiest heaven.
Namaz will be accepted only if income is Halaal. Even one handful of Haraam food will make our prayers rejected for 40 days. Allah says in one Hadees Qudsi. “If you stop enjoining good and forbidding evil, I won’t fulfill your prayers. I won’t protect you from your enemies”. Your Dua will be rejected if you stop doing Dawath. Now Dawath is lagging in our Ummath.
Third quality is Ilm and Zikr. Ilm is to know Allah’s likings. Zikr is to implement them. Purpose of Ilm is to motivate us to do good. Shaitan won’t like knowledge. Knowledge and details can be learned from books and scholars. Mashirat Ilm is to know day to day things like dress, food, culture, sleeping and marrying. Mashiyat Ilm is about income. One should know what income is permitted and what is prohibited. Income from Haraam means or business is Haraam. Adulteration, perjury, lying, cheating in weight balance are all Haraam. Truthful business will bring Barakath. One who bribes and receives bribe will go to hell. Maamulath Ilm is about exchanges. Business is Halaal. Usury is Haraam.
Elders should be respected and youngsters should be shown kindness. We should share our peace with others. We should honor rights of others and forgive if there are transgressions on our rights.
Fifth quality is Iqlaas. Anything should be done with sole intention of pleasing Allah. We should not expect rewards from others. Even service to others should be done for God. This will save us from getting tired.
Last quality is Dawath. It is to accept Allah’s commands and preach them to others.
Published in Muslim Murasu, June 2012
Allah is for the entire world. Prophet is for the entire world. This Ummath, you and I, are also for whole humanity. “ukrijath linnaas”. You have been raised for the benefit of entire humanity. We have gathered here in the concern of a peaceful and prosperous world. We are deliberating here for peace, tranquility, forbearing mindset, human rights, good qualities and faith in God for mankind. Arms are being sold in the name of peace. Good character will bring peace; weapons won’t give peace. Allah has taught us the methods for this.
We and our children are responsible for the entire world. Allah has made success in both the worlds, this world and the next, dependent on following Deen (religion). Tranquility of entire Muhalla rests on Deen. Sahabas were wallowing in the depths of ignorance. Murder and robbery were common. Religion transformed their lives. They used to wage war when one camel drank water out of turn. In Yarmuk battle, three Sahabas passed water to the next one when they themselves were dying. This is not a story. Their hearts changed. We have to think about this. This is the message of the religion.
Every situation arising in this world is tied to our actions. If we reform our activities, Allah will change the situation in the world for the better. If our activities are bad, world situation will deteriorate.
Surah 30, Rum, verse 41 – ‘jaharal fasaadu fil barri wal bahri bima kasabath aidinnaas’. Troubles have spread in land and ocean because of what men did. Here Muslims are referred. When a Muslim does something, first impact is on his heart and then the whole world tastes the consequence. When a bad deed is committed, a stain is laid on the heart. It will grow till the whole heart becomes dark. When good things are done, heart will glow. If Jakath is stopped, rain will stop. There will be paucity of water. When indecency becomes common in Ummath, new diseases with strange names will spread. These diseases are not due to pollution. Our actions will have consequences on this world. Allah has given us such a position. Our works are at locality level. But our concern should be for the world at large. We sit at family level or locality level for teachings and learning. But entire world will taste the benefit.
Prophet’s hard work brought good character, discipline, sacrificial mentality, loyalty, integrity and obedience in the lives of Sahabas. We are striving to bring these qualities in our lives through Dawath (missionary work). Our elders have analyzed Quran and Hadees and zeroed in on six qualities for focus. Intention is to follow Quran and Hadees in entirety.
First quality to focus is Kaamil Imaan, complete faith in God. We have faith. But it is not up to mark. A person can just be alive and spend his days on bed with others helping him while other person can be truly alive and live to the fullest. There is difference in being alive. There is a standard of Imaan that is expected and the one we possess. There is a huge gap. Allah expects complete faith from us. A person asks water to quench his thirst and you provide water in spoon. Our faith is very weak. This won’t fulfill our needs. This Imaan won’t give us strength to act upright. First focus should be to restore perfect Imaan in Ummath.
Creations can’t do you any harm or favor. All powers rest with Allah. All creatures are dependent on Him. The ways of Yahudis, Nasaras and Mushriks will give failure. This is next part of Imaan. Prophet’s commands will give us complete success. There is a palm’s gap between lip and heart. But rarely our words descend from lips into our hearts. Dawath is to speak Allah’s praise always. We should constantly talk about the reality of Deen, Akhirat and Allah’s powers at all places we go, be it school or college or office. Imaan will become complete when we openly talk about it. We get our food, health and air from Allah’s treasure. Surah 40, Mumin, verse 13 – ‘ va yunazzilulakum minas samayi rizkan’. He sends you sustenance from the sky. Allah is graceful. He has stored food for us for our lifetime in sky. He has it protected for us. Talk to Muslims about Imaan. Explain them the importance to follow Sunnath. We will be raised with the community that we follow in this world. A Hadees narrates that we will be with those in the Qayamath whom we loved in this world. Sahabas rejoiced after hearing this. Because they loved Prophet more than anything else. Man will follow whom he loves. Kaamil Imaan is to wish for our brother what we would wish for ourselves. We desire to escape from hell, from punishment and pain. Protect your family members, relatives, neighbors from the fire of hell. Surah 66, Tahreem, verse 6 – ‘ya ayyuhallazeena amanu ku anfusakum wa ahlikum naaran’. Save yourselves and your families from the fire. Do teachings and remembrance in your families. Involve your family members in Islamic works.
Second focus is on Namaz. It is not just to practice Namaz. We have to make it perfect. First question in Qayamat is about Namaz. Tajweed, Tasbeeh, Athiyat, Durood, all should be pronounced properly. You are talking with God. Talk correctly. Appearance and pronunciation should be correct. Abdullah ibn Zubair (rali) would stand erect like a pole while in Namaz. He learned Namaz from his grandfather Abubakkar (rali). He learned from Prophet. Once a person was toying with his beard while in prayer. If his heart was in correct place, his body would have been at peace.
Surah 23, Muminoon, verse 1-2 – ‘qad aflahal muminunallazeena hum fi salathihim gashioon’. “The believers must win through; those who humble themselves in prayer”. Gushu means to have heart focused and delighted in prayer. It is not proper to scratch during prayer. If heart is focused, they will become inheritors of paradise. They will enter Jannathul Firdous, loftiest heaven.
Namaz will be accepted only if income is Halaal. Even one handful of Haraam food will make our prayers rejected for 40 days. Allah says in one Hadees Qudsi. “If you stop enjoining good and forbidding evil, I won’t fulfill your prayers. I won’t protect you from your enemies”. Your Dua will be rejected if you stop doing Dawath. Now Dawath is lagging in our Ummath.
Third quality is Ilm and Zikr. Ilm is to know Allah’s likings. Zikr is to implement them. Purpose of Ilm is to motivate us to do good. Shaitan won’t like knowledge. Knowledge and details can be learned from books and scholars. Mashirat Ilm is to know day to day things like dress, food, culture, sleeping and marrying. Mashiyat Ilm is about income. One should know what income is permitted and what is prohibited. Income from Haraam means or business is Haraam. Adulteration, perjury, lying, cheating in weight balance are all Haraam. Truthful business will bring Barakath. One who bribes and receives bribe will go to hell. Maamulath Ilm is about exchanges. Business is Halaal. Usury is Haraam.
Elders should be respected and youngsters should be shown kindness. We should share our peace with others. We should honor rights of others and forgive if there are transgressions on our rights.
Fifth quality is Iqlaas. Anything should be done with sole intention of pleasing Allah. We should not expect rewards from others. Even service to others should be done for God. This will save us from getting tired.
Last quality is Dawath. It is to accept Allah’s commands and preach them to others.
July 09, 2012
Fire In Hell Is Fiercer
Darse Quran by Dr. Muhammad Mustafa Shareef Naqshbandhi
Published in Muslim Murasu, June 2012
The battle of Tabuk contains Ruhani (spiritual), Irfani (enlightening) and Imaani (faith) lessons for us. Hypocrites are exposed. Surah 9 Tauba, verse 81 – “farihal mukallafun”. Those who stayed behind are rejoicing. Prophet had set off for war. It was long distance, army was less in number and climate was extremely hot. But soldiers of Allah were not dissuaded by these challenges. They did not fear the might of Roman force. Hypocrites who stayed behind in Medina felt happy. They spun arguments that it is abject folly to fight Roman army in this heat. Opponent force had soldiers in excess of one lakh. Muslim army had 30000 warriors.
Hypocrites said lame excuses to Prophet and stayed behind. They did not rebel against Allah. They rebelled against Prophet. They detested Jihad. They found sacrificing life as a loss. They spoke bad about it.
Khalid bin Valid (rali) used to bring victory in all the battles he participated. He was a skilled warrior. He had battle-scars all over his body. He regretted while on his death bed that he should have died in a battle. He felt bad about dying like a hypocrite in a bed. We consider this world as delightful. Ali (rali) was attacked cruelly when he was conducting Namaz. He told that he has succeeded. He was happy that he got the death that he desired. Ibn Muljim was the attacker. Ali (rali) asked for water. He offered water to the offender Ibn Muljim. But Ibn Muljim declined to drink that water. Ali (rali) said, “If you had taken this water from me, I would have given you water from Howzul Kawzer in the next world. You are adamant in your mistake”. Ali (rali) forgave his attacker.
Hypocrites cited heat as the reason for not taking part in the battle. It was season of dates harvest. Allah replied them. “kul naaru jahannama ashaddu harraa”. Fire of hell is fiercer in heat. Your belongings, dear ones and luxuries cannot save you there. It is narrated in a Hadees that the fire we see in this world is what has remained after dipping the fire of hell seventy times in water. Akhirat fire will be terrible. Pain will be unrelenting. People dying from burns will know the pain.
Verse 82 – “fal yalhaku kaleelan valyabku kasheeran”. Let them laugh a little; much they will weep. Joy in this world will last at the maximum for seventy years. Thousands of years of torment awaits them. If the heat and pain in this world is tolerated for good cause, cool and pleasant heaven will be gifted in the next life.
Verse continues – “jazaan bimaa kaanu yaksibun”. This is their recompense. This world is a place for cause and effect. If you throw a ball against the wall, it will come back to you. If you sit next to a stove, soot will stick to your dress. You will get cold if you go out in frigid climate. You will receive fragrance if you are near perfume. Hanging out with scholars will impart you knowledge. Roaming with fools will make you ignorant. Every action has a reaction. You will get rewards for the deeds you send up. You will reap what you sow. Good things cannot be expected in return for bad deeds.
Allah will be merciful to this Ummath. If you pray two Rakaath in the night, you will get reward like you spent the whole night in prayer. If you pray Ishaa with Jamaath and then Fajr with Jamaath, you will be rewarded like spending the whole night in worship. You need to make small efforts. You will reap huge rewards. Don’t sleep for whole night. Don’t rest too much. People around thirty can sleep for seven hours maximum. People in elder years can limit their sleep to five yours. Don’t sleep without limits. You will spoil your health and Deen. Tahajjut is the time to make your demands to God. You are not asked to spend full night in prayer. But at least the last part of the night, 30 minutes before Fajr, spend in prayer. Spend atleast some time in Ibadath.
Verse 83 - “fa in rajaakallahu ila taifathin minhum fastahzanuka lilkurooj”. They will ask your permission to fight with you in future. Prophet replied to hypocrites, “Never shall ye come out with me”. You stayed behind during Tabuk. You stay behind in future too. This is a punishment from Allah. They were removed from Jihad.
Abdullah ibn Ubay was a hypocrite. He had thousand people with him. He fell ill. He requested Prophet to bless him with Prophet’s garment. Umar (rali) advised Prophet against giving his garment. But Prophet gave him garment. Prophet told Umar that this won’t benefit disbeliever. But he won’t be able to mislead anyone hereafter. Followers of Abdullah ibn Ubay understood their folly and accepted Prophet. Abdullay ibn Ubay passed away. His son came to Prophet and asked him to conduct Janaza prayer. Prophet slipped by asking him to find someone else. But he insisted that Prophet should come. Prophet relented and got ready for Janaza prayer. Verse 84 was sent at this occasion. “valaa tusalli alaa ahadin minhum maata Abadan valaa takum alaa kabrihi”. Don’t pray for them, nor stand at their graves. It is not proper to stand at the graves of hypocrites. But Ziyarat, visiting graves in general is accepted in Hadees. One Sahaba was walking in a graveyard with his slippers. Prophet told him to remove his slippers. Kabrastan is not a place for playing cards or chit-chat. We should be standing while burying the body. This is not a place for time-pass or bantering. One day you will be brought here. One should deeply think and pray. Eyes should take lessons and hearts should fear.
Hypocrites were not against Allah. They had deep understanding of Tawheed. But they were against Prophet. Allah took this as a rebellion against Him. People saying ‘la ilaha illallah’ are dying in Kufr. Requirement of Kalima is ‘Muhammadur rasoolullah’. Rejecting Prophet is rejecting Allah.
Verse 85 – “valaa tuhjibka amwaaluhum va awladuhum”. Let not their wealth or sons dazzle thee. Allah is addressing Prophet. Message is for Sahabas. Allah will give them wealth and sons and trap them in that. Allah’s desire is that they should die with their hearts deep in Kufr. We can pray for wealth. But we should not sink in it. Allah will test some people by giving them facilities. If it is Allah’s Will, He will give sons. If it is His Will, He will give daughters. For some people, He won’t give any child. It should not be construed as Allah’s wrath. Many elders in Islam had no children. Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi died in the state of Ihtikaaf, while reciting Kahf Surah in Juma Namaz. He did not have offspring. It is Allah’s Will. Many scholars in Hyderabad don’t have children. But one can pray to God. Dua can change fate. Ibrahim (alai), Jakariya (alai) persistently prayed to God. They got children in their older years. One should pray with hope. If prayer is not fulfilled, it should be considered as good. Allah’s verdicts should be accepted. We should not challenge or argue about it. It is upto Allah to give or decline. No one can question Him. But pray with confidence. “Our hands will beg only to You. Our heads will bow only to You”. Sometimes, Allah delays to retain you in His nearness. This will improve the status of the person. If Allah enables you to ask Dua, He has opened the doors of His Grace for you. “Ija kalaithum fazkurullaha”. Remember Him more once you finish your worship. Pray to Him. Don’t run after Namaz. Dua is Ibadath. ‘addua huwal ibada’. Namaz is a formal form of Dua. Allah likes his servants pleading to Him.
Published in Muslim Murasu, June 2012
The battle of Tabuk contains Ruhani (spiritual), Irfani (enlightening) and Imaani (faith) lessons for us. Hypocrites are exposed. Surah 9 Tauba, verse 81 – “farihal mukallafun”. Those who stayed behind are rejoicing. Prophet had set off for war. It was long distance, army was less in number and climate was extremely hot. But soldiers of Allah were not dissuaded by these challenges. They did not fear the might of Roman force. Hypocrites who stayed behind in Medina felt happy. They spun arguments that it is abject folly to fight Roman army in this heat. Opponent force had soldiers in excess of one lakh. Muslim army had 30000 warriors.
Hypocrites said lame excuses to Prophet and stayed behind. They did not rebel against Allah. They rebelled against Prophet. They detested Jihad. They found sacrificing life as a loss. They spoke bad about it.
Khalid bin Valid (rali) used to bring victory in all the battles he participated. He was a skilled warrior. He had battle-scars all over his body. He regretted while on his death bed that he should have died in a battle. He felt bad about dying like a hypocrite in a bed. We consider this world as delightful. Ali (rali) was attacked cruelly when he was conducting Namaz. He told that he has succeeded. He was happy that he got the death that he desired. Ibn Muljim was the attacker. Ali (rali) asked for water. He offered water to the offender Ibn Muljim. But Ibn Muljim declined to drink that water. Ali (rali) said, “If you had taken this water from me, I would have given you water from Howzul Kawzer in the next world. You are adamant in your mistake”. Ali (rali) forgave his attacker.
Hypocrites cited heat as the reason for not taking part in the battle. It was season of dates harvest. Allah replied them. “kul naaru jahannama ashaddu harraa”. Fire of hell is fiercer in heat. Your belongings, dear ones and luxuries cannot save you there. It is narrated in a Hadees that the fire we see in this world is what has remained after dipping the fire of hell seventy times in water. Akhirat fire will be terrible. Pain will be unrelenting. People dying from burns will know the pain.
Verse 82 – “fal yalhaku kaleelan valyabku kasheeran”. Let them laugh a little; much they will weep. Joy in this world will last at the maximum for seventy years. Thousands of years of torment awaits them. If the heat and pain in this world is tolerated for good cause, cool and pleasant heaven will be gifted in the next life.
Verse continues – “jazaan bimaa kaanu yaksibun”. This is their recompense. This world is a place for cause and effect. If you throw a ball against the wall, it will come back to you. If you sit next to a stove, soot will stick to your dress. You will get cold if you go out in frigid climate. You will receive fragrance if you are near perfume. Hanging out with scholars will impart you knowledge. Roaming with fools will make you ignorant. Every action has a reaction. You will get rewards for the deeds you send up. You will reap what you sow. Good things cannot be expected in return for bad deeds.
Allah will be merciful to this Ummath. If you pray two Rakaath in the night, you will get reward like you spent the whole night in prayer. If you pray Ishaa with Jamaath and then Fajr with Jamaath, you will be rewarded like spending the whole night in worship. You need to make small efforts. You will reap huge rewards. Don’t sleep for whole night. Don’t rest too much. People around thirty can sleep for seven hours maximum. People in elder years can limit their sleep to five yours. Don’t sleep without limits. You will spoil your health and Deen. Tahajjut is the time to make your demands to God. You are not asked to spend full night in prayer. But at least the last part of the night, 30 minutes before Fajr, spend in prayer. Spend atleast some time in Ibadath.
Verse 83 - “fa in rajaakallahu ila taifathin minhum fastahzanuka lilkurooj”. They will ask your permission to fight with you in future. Prophet replied to hypocrites, “Never shall ye come out with me”. You stayed behind during Tabuk. You stay behind in future too. This is a punishment from Allah. They were removed from Jihad.
Abdullah ibn Ubay was a hypocrite. He had thousand people with him. He fell ill. He requested Prophet to bless him with Prophet’s garment. Umar (rali) advised Prophet against giving his garment. But Prophet gave him garment. Prophet told Umar that this won’t benefit disbeliever. But he won’t be able to mislead anyone hereafter. Followers of Abdullah ibn Ubay understood their folly and accepted Prophet. Abdullay ibn Ubay passed away. His son came to Prophet and asked him to conduct Janaza prayer. Prophet slipped by asking him to find someone else. But he insisted that Prophet should come. Prophet relented and got ready for Janaza prayer. Verse 84 was sent at this occasion. “valaa tusalli alaa ahadin minhum maata Abadan valaa takum alaa kabrihi”. Don’t pray for them, nor stand at their graves. It is not proper to stand at the graves of hypocrites. But Ziyarat, visiting graves in general is accepted in Hadees. One Sahaba was walking in a graveyard with his slippers. Prophet told him to remove his slippers. Kabrastan is not a place for playing cards or chit-chat. We should be standing while burying the body. This is not a place for time-pass or bantering. One day you will be brought here. One should deeply think and pray. Eyes should take lessons and hearts should fear.
Hypocrites were not against Allah. They had deep understanding of Tawheed. But they were against Prophet. Allah took this as a rebellion against Him. People saying ‘la ilaha illallah’ are dying in Kufr. Requirement of Kalima is ‘Muhammadur rasoolullah’. Rejecting Prophet is rejecting Allah.
Verse 85 – “valaa tuhjibka amwaaluhum va awladuhum”. Let not their wealth or sons dazzle thee. Allah is addressing Prophet. Message is for Sahabas. Allah will give them wealth and sons and trap them in that. Allah’s desire is that they should die with their hearts deep in Kufr. We can pray for wealth. But we should not sink in it. Allah will test some people by giving them facilities. If it is Allah’s Will, He will give sons. If it is His Will, He will give daughters. For some people, He won’t give any child. It should not be construed as Allah’s wrath. Many elders in Islam had no children. Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi died in the state of Ihtikaaf, while reciting Kahf Surah in Juma Namaz. He did not have offspring. It is Allah’s Will. Many scholars in Hyderabad don’t have children. But one can pray to God. Dua can change fate. Ibrahim (alai), Jakariya (alai) persistently prayed to God. They got children in their older years. One should pray with hope. If prayer is not fulfilled, it should be considered as good. Allah’s verdicts should be accepted. We should not challenge or argue about it. It is upto Allah to give or decline. No one can question Him. But pray with confidence. “Our hands will beg only to You. Our heads will bow only to You”. Sometimes, Allah delays to retain you in His nearness. This will improve the status of the person. If Allah enables you to ask Dua, He has opened the doors of His Grace for you. “Ija kalaithum fazkurullaha”. Remember Him more once you finish your worship. Pray to Him. Don’t run after Namaz. Dua is Ibadath. ‘addua huwal ibada’. Namaz is a formal form of Dua. Allah likes his servants pleading to Him.
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