| The New Crescent for Saffar1432 AH | for everyone |
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| Ranks and Reward of an ill Person | for everyone |
Ranks and Reward of an ill Person
It has been reported on the authority of the Holy Prophet (SAWW): “An ill person has four characteristics: 1- Sin is not written for him.
2- God orders the angel to write for him the best of deeds he would do when he was in good health.
3- Every sin he has committed with body organs will be forgiven.
4- He will be forgiven whether he dies or survives.
* “When a Muslim becomes ill, God will write for him the best deeds he would do when he was in good health and his sins would fall off like the leaves of a tree.”
* “Whoever visits an ill person, should the ill person recite a Du for him, it will be fulfilled.”
* “God will send the following revelation to the angel on the left side: Do not write anything for my servant as long as he is under My shelter. God will say to the angel on the right side: Write a virtue for the moaning of My servant.”
* “Illness cleanses body from sins in the same way that a black smiths’ bellows removes dust from iron.”
* “A child getting sick is atonement for his parents’ sins.”
* It is reported on the authority of Imam Sadeq (AS):
“The Messenger of Allah said: Fever is a sign of death and God’s prison on the earth. Its warmth is form the Hell and this much of warmth is a believer’s share of Fire.”
“The Messenger of Allah said: Fever is a sign of death and God’s prison on the earth. Its warmth is form the Hell and this much of warmth is a believer’s share of Fire.”
* “What a good pain is fever, for it gives a share of affliction to every body organ and one who is not afflicted with tribulation has not any share.”
* “When a believer is suddenly affected with fever, his sins fall off like the leaves of a tree. If he laments in his bed, his lamentations are as Subhanallah (Glory be to Allah) and his cry is la ilaha illal lah (There is no God but Allah), his moving in bed is as if he is fighting for the cause of Allah. If he lives on and serves God, he will be forgiven. Happy is such a person!”
* “One-day fever is atonement for one year of sin and its agony will body for the same period. This agony is atonement for the past and future.”
* “One who laments for a night but does not complain or rather thanks God for it, the same will serve as atonement for two years; one year for accepting the pain and one year for forbearing it.”
* “Illness for a believer is as purification and mercy but for the unbeliever it is punishment and curse.”
* “Illness persists in believer till his sins cleansed. A headache of one night will remove all sins except the cardinal ones.”
It has been reported on the authority of Imam Baqir (AS)
It has been reported on the authority of Imam Baqir (AS)
* “If a believer knows what great reward afflictions have, he wishes to be cut into pieces with scissors.”
*It has been reported on the authority of the Holy Prophet (SAWW): “Should a believer walk in the straight path and become ill, go on a trip or is not able to perform his duties as he used to, God will write for him the same virtue for the deeds of normal days.”
Then the Holy Prophet (SAWW) recited the following verse:
“So they shall have a reward never to be cut off.” (Verse 6 of the Quranic Chapter, Teen)
Then the Holy Prophet (SAWW) recited the following verse:
“So they shall have a reward never to be cut off.” (Verse 6 of the Quranic Chapter, Teen)
* It has been reported on the authority of Imam Sadiq (AS): “When a believer dies, the twoguardian angels will ascend to heavens saying: O God! You took the life of such and such person. God will say: Go down and perform prayer at his graveside and say La ilaha illal lah. Then write these deeds for him.”
* Jabir reports that a man who was both dumb and deaf came to the Holy Prophet (SAWW) making gesture with his hand. The Holy Prophet (SAW) said: “Give him a piece of paper to write what he wants.”
The man took the paper and wrote on it:
“I bear witness that there is no god but Allah and I bear witness that Mohammad (SAW) is the Messenger of Allah.”
At this point, the Holy Prophet (SAW) said:
“Write for him something and give him the good tidings of paradise, for, whenever a Muslim loses his tongue, his ears, his arms or legs but he is thankful for that affliction and invokes God to give him reward, God will save him from Fire and make him enter paradise.”
Then the Holy Prophet (SAW) said: “People of afflictions have ranks in the world and positions in the Hereafter which no one can attain with righteous deeds so much so that he wishes his body would be cut into pieces with scissors. This desire arises when these people watch the reward given to the afflicted believers by God on the Day of Judgment, for God does not accept any deed without man’s submission to Him.”
The man took the paper and wrote on it:
“I bear witness that there is no god but Allah and I bear witness that Mohammad (SAW) is the Messenger of Allah.”
At this point, the Holy Prophet (SAW) said:
“Write for him something and give him the good tidings of paradise, for, whenever a Muslim loses his tongue, his ears, his arms or legs but he is thankful for that affliction and invokes God to give him reward, God will save him from Fire and make him enter paradise.”
Then the Holy Prophet (SAW) said: “People of afflictions have ranks in the world and positions in the Hereafter which no one can attain with righteous deeds so much so that he wishes his body would be cut into pieces with scissors. This desire arises when these people watch the reward given to the afflicted believers by God on the Day of Judgment, for God does not accept any deed without man’s submission to Him.”
Hadith # 309
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O my Allah, the honour of being Your servant is sufficient.
I am proud of the fact that You are my Lord.
You are just as I want, so make me just as You like me to be. الهي كفى بي عزّا أن أكون لك عبدا ، وكفى بي فخرا أن تكون لي ربّا
I am proud of the fact that You are my Lord.
You are just as I want, so make me just as You like me to be. الهي كفى بي عزّا أن أكون لك عبدا ، وكفى بي فخرا أن تكون لي ربّا
... أنت كما أُحبُّ ، فاجعلني كما تحبُّ
"When Allah takes something from your grasp, He's not punishing
"When Allah takes something from your grasp, He's not punishing
you, but merely opening your hands to receive something better."
(sent by sis Mariam R. Jiwa)
| From Our Aimmah(AS)........GENERAL TIPS FOR GOOD HEALTH........... | for everyone |
GENERAL TIPS FOR GOOD HEALTH
The Prophet (S.A.W.W) Says- 77 diseases are cured by honey.
Do not stand and drink water at night, incurable disease will be contracted (6th Imam AS)
Drinking Rain water is beneficial for health
21 raisins (kishmish) on an empty stomach for good memory and good health.
Do not sleep on an empty stomach.
Eat only when you are hungry.
Use the washroom before sleeping.
Do not sleep in a straight position immediately after a meal, as it hinders digestion and causes gastric problems.
Do not bathe immediately after a meal, as it hinders digestion.
Best not to eat anything except fruits between breakfast and dinner.
Do not eat fruits immediately after a meal, wait for a hour before eating fruits.
Eat the fruits at the beginning of their season
Don't drink tea immediately after a meal as tea has acid in it and food has protein in it therefore digestion is hindered.
Never urinate in the sea or swimming pools,one contracts incurable disease.
After a hot water bath put a mug of cold water on your feet
Best time to sleep, which is most beneficial, is 2½ hrs after sunset.
Start and end your food with a pinch of salt to ward off 70 kinds of diseases. End your meal also with a pinch of salt
Waking up 2½ hrs before sunrise is very beneficial for health.
Namaz-e-shab is best for good health.
Try to do all work facing qibla and in a state of wuzu- Tilwat-e-Quran, cooking, studying etc.
Honey serves a dual purpose i.e. in the winter it has a warm effect and in summer it has a cooling effect.
Cutting nails on Friday cures many diseases.
(sent by sis Mariam R. Jiwa)
| Yazeed Ibn Moaviyah – A Branch of the Cursed Tree | for everyone |
“… And We did not make the vision which We showed you but a trial for men and the cursed tree in Quran as well?”
(Surah Bani Israel: 60)
Tabari, explaining the revelation of this verse, has written about a dream that Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) had. The Prophet (s.a.w.a.) dreamt that the children of Hakam bin Abi Aas (from the family of Umayya) were jumping up and down upon his pulpit like monkeys. This dream upset the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) so much that he never laughed again.
(Tafsir-e-Tabari, Vol. 15, Pg. 177, Ad-Durrul-Mansur, Vol. 4, Pg. 191)
Ayesha told Marwan bin Hakam that Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) told her:
“The ‘Cursed Tree’ in the Quran implies you (i.e. Marwan bin Hakam and his family).”
(Ad-Durrul-Mansur, Vol. 4, Pg. 191)
Marwan bin Hakam is the originator of ‘Bani Marwan’ (the progeny of Marwan). His acronym (Kunniyat) was Abu Abdil Malik. His genealogy is Marwan bin Hakam bin Abil Aas bin Umayya.
Thus, the bottom line is that history has proved that ‘the cursed tree’ is none other than the family of Umayya – Banu Umayya. Yazeed, the accursed son of Moaviyah is from this very family.
The Genealogy of Yazeed
His father’s name was Moaviyah and that of his grandfather – Abu Sufyan. His grandmother was Hinda – the one who ate the liver of Hazrat Hamzah (a.s.), the Prophet’s (s.a.w.a.) uncle after the battle of Uhud. She was notorious throughout Makkah as being a woman of loose character. She had a string of lovers and paramours. Abu Sufyan’s cousin Musafir bin Amr who was famous among the Quraish for his good looks, generosity and skill as a poet, became Hinda’s lover. Even after getting married to Abu Sufyan, Hinda did not severe her amorous and illicit relationship with Musafir. And so Musafir is one of the four people that are considered to have possibly sired Moaviyah.
(Sharho Nahjil Balagha by Ibne Abil Hadid, Vol. 1, Pg. 30)
Yazeed’s mother’s name was Maisoon binte Bakhdal Kalbi. She was extremely beautiful due to which Moaviyah became inclined towards her. However when she conceived Yazeed, Moaviyah abandoned her. Hence, Yazeed was born in her house where she and many other women of immoral character breast fed him.
Yazeed’s genealogy and the dirty deeds of his parents and grandparents have been chronicled in details. Abu Sufyan, Hinda the liver eater, Marwan and their cronies were foremost in the enmity towards Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and Ahle Bait (a.s.). Regarding this topic one can find numerous books of history in Arabic and Persian.
Readers of Urdu may refer to “Moaviyah aur Yazeed Taarikh ke Aaeene Mein” by the late Hujjatul Islam Aqae Sheikh Mohammad Ismail Rajabi (r.a).
The Despicable Attributes of Yazeed
Every society and all the religions of the world declare alcoholism, gambling, genocide, incest, fornication and the like to be the worst of acts. Humanity deems that any person who indulges in these acts should be condemned. Islam too has denounced these activities, declared them to be unlawful (Haraam) and threatened with severe punishment, both in this world as well as the hereafter, for those who commit them. Moreover, a friendly relationship with such people too is prohibited in Islam. A far cry indeed from declaring such persons to be Caliphs and leaders. The Holy Quran says:
“And obey not from among them any sinner or ungrateful one.”
(Surah Insan:24)
(According to Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanavi, sinner or ungrateful implies “a wrongdoer or an unbeliever”).
The word of Quran is clear. They have no one to blame but themselves for having chosen such persons as their leaders. Now let us throw some light on the attributes of Yazeed.
Yazeed relieved Walid of his position as Governor of Medina and appointed Usman bin Mohammad bin Abu Sufyan in his place. Usman despatched a delegation of notables of Medina which included Abdullah bin Amr-e-Makhzoomi, Abdullah bin Hanzala Ansari, Fandar bin Zubair and others to Yazeed who gave them a great reception and on their departure, showered them with lavish gifts. However, when the same delegation returned to Medina, its members spoke out against Yazeed and his deeds, saying:
“We have visited a person who has no faith whatsoever. One who drinks wine, plays the tambourine and has prostitutes thronging his court. He plays with dogs and sleeps with children and slave-girls. O people, bear witness that we hereby dismiss Yazeed from the post of Caliphate.”
On hearing this, many began to refuse to acknowledge Yazeed as a Khalifa.
(Tarikh-e-Tabari, Vol. 4, Pg. 3, The events of 62 A.H.)
Here we have Tabari bringing to light the gist of Yazeed’s abominable qualities by narrating one incident. However other writers like Masoodi in Muroojuz Zahab, Sibt ibn Jawzi in Tazkeratul Khawas, Tabari in Taarikhul Umam, Ibn Athir in his al-Kamil, Yaqoobi in-his “Tarikh” and many others have also recorded the numerous unabashed sins and iniquities of Yazeed. Here, we restrict ourselves to mentioning a few important ones.
After the tragedy of Kerbala, Yazeed invited Ibn Ziad to his court, bestowed gifts upon him and gave him a free rein in his harem. One night, while lying intoxicated with his head in Ibn Ziad’s (l.a.) lap, he ordered that songs be sung and then addressed the wine bearer thus:
“O wine bearer! give me wine enough to fill my heart with joy. Then let Ibn Ziad drink similarly, for he is the one who is aware of my secrets and possessions. The one whose hands strengthen my Caliphate, the one who fills my coffers with war-booty, the one who killed the Kharijite (Imam Husain (a.s.), God forbid), and has vanquished my enemies and those envious of me.”
(Tazkiratul Khawas by Sibt ibn Jauzi, Pg. 290)
Proclamation of enmity with the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and the denial of the Day of Judgment
Yazeed while addressing Aalia, a concubine of his harem sung the following verses:
“O Aalia! Come near me, give me wine and sing me a song,
Because I dislike praying to Allah, 0 Aalia! Speak to me of Aby Sufyan who was a great man,
As he moved with great swiftness towards Uhud (to battle the Muslims),
He showed great valor against Muhammad (i.e. he killed many Muslims),
And caused the wailing and grieving Muslim women to gather in a large group,
O Umme Ahim (Aalia’s acronym), after I die, marry again,
And hope not to meet me on the Day of Reckoning,
For all that has been said about that day is meaningless and untrue;
Spoken merely to pacify the heart.”
(Tazkheratul Khawas by Sibt ibn Jauzi, Pg. 291)
On the basis of the above mentioned verses, Sibt ibn Jauzi deemed Yazeed to be a disbeliever. The following poem also proves that he never submitted to Islam nor to the teachings of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.).
“Neither has any divine information descended nor any revelation made (to the Holy Prophet [s.a.]).”
(Naasekh ul Tawaarikh, Ch. 3, Pg.136; Tarikh-e- Tabari, Vol. 11, Pg. 358)
The Horror at Harrah
Harrah was a suburb of Medina which was plundered by the army of Yazeed in 63 A.H. In this year, the people of Medina had risen in support of Abdullah ibne Hanzala and other nobles of the city who were working against Yazeed’s rule. They had drawn out their swords and were even successful in overpowering the Governor of Medina. This infuriated Yazeed no end. Therefore, he sent a cruel and murderous army under the leadership of Muslim ibn Aqabah to quell the rebellion. In the city of the Prophet (s.a.w.a.), this army committed such barbaric and shameless acts which cannot be compared even to the most savage or uncivilized of societies.
Tabari, writes in his “Tarikh”, “Whatever was there in Medina was made permissible for three days by Muslim Ibn Aqabah for his soldiers. People were killed mercilessly. Wailing and grief overcame the companions of the Prophet (s.a.w.a.) present in Medina. The most outrageous action which the Syrian army of Yazeed ibn Moaviyah perpetrated was of violating the chastity of women and girls. As a result, many unlawful children were born.”
(Tarikh-e-Tabari, circa 63 A.H.)
“After the incident of Harrah, the women of Medina delivered one thousand illicit children. According to another narration, ten thousand such children were born.”
(Tarikh of Sibt ibn Jauzi, Pg. 289).
History witnesses that in entire Medina, only few houses were safe from this plunder. These were the houses of Imam Zainul Abedeen (a.s.) and others from Bani Hashim. Under special instructions from Yazeed, his army did not attack their houses.
Similarly, history also records yet another oppressive and heart rending crime of the accursed Yazeed in the year 64 A.H. Abdullah ibn Zubair having refused to pay allegiance to Yazeed, had taken protection in the Holy Makkah. When Yazeed sent Muslim ibn Aqabah to Medina, he instructed him to go to Makkah to arrest Abdullah ibn Zubair. However, on the way to Makkah, Muslim left for his hellish abode. Husain ibn Numair took over as the commander of the army. When he besieged Makkah, Abdullah ibn Zubair was in Masjid ul Haram. He entered the Holy Kaaba and sought shelter there. On which, Husain ibn Numair shot huge fire balls at the sacrosanct structure, severely damaging its walls.
(Murooj-uz-Zahab of Masoodi,Vol 2, Pg 70)
The Pronouncement of Imam Ahmed ibn Hanbal
Moaviyah declared Yazeed to be his successor in 56 AH. He started publicizing that from his property, Yazeed will get the Caliphate. In 60 AH. after the death of Moaviyah, Yazeed ascended the Caliphate, and in 61 AH. the tragedy of Karbala occurred.
Imam Ahmad Ibn Hanbal, the Imam of one of the four sub sects of Ahle Sunnah, admonished his son in the following words: “O My son, only his belief in Allah shall remain safe who curses Yazeed.” The tragic event of Karbala has passed but has left its mark on the history. By illuminating the humanity it has made every member of the cursed tree easily identifiable till the day of judgement. No sooner does any author lift his pen to justify Yazeed and his ideology, he is confronted with curses and severe blows at the hands of historical facts.
SEND BESHUMAR LANAT ON YAZEED AND HIS COMPANIONS AND ALL THOSE WHO SUPPORTED HIM IN HIS EVIL PLANS AND CAUSE - BESHUMAR LANAT FOR EVER
| Ziyarat-e-Naahiyah- A Brief Explanation | for everyone |
“Salutations upon the son of Lote tree (Sedratul Muntaha)”
The word ‘Sedra’ means a lote tree. This has reference from the following verse:
“And certainly he saw him in another descent, at the farthest lote-tree (Sedratul Muntaha); near which is the garden (Jannatul Mawa)”
(Surah Njam (53): Verses 13-15)
The aforesaid verse refers to seeing of Hazrat Jibrael in his original form by Hazrat Muhammad Mustafa (s.a.w.a.) on the night of ascension at the Lote tree near the garden.
This exegesis is based on authentic traditions quoted in large numbers by the Shias as well as the Sunnis. Now, let us glance through the traditions of the Ahle Bait (a.s.) about ‘Sedratul Muntaha’.
(i) Nomenclature
It is narrated from Hazrat Imam Abu Ja’far Muhammad Baqir (a.s.) that the lote tree is called ‘Muntaha’ (the final destination) because the angels (who write our deeds) take the accounts of deeds to ‘Sedra’. There, the honored writer of goodness writes the deeds of the servants sitting under the lote tree. Hence, it is called ‘Sedratul Muntaha’.
(Ealalush Sharaai, Behaar al-Anwaar, v.18, p. 365)
(ii) The Huge Lote Tree
It is narrated in the tradition of ascension from the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.):
Jibrael made me stand near a huge tree, the like of which I had never seen before. I saw an angel on each of its branches, on every leaf and fruit. The crown of light of Allah, the High and the Majestic was shining on it. Jibrael said: This is ‘Sedratul Muntaha’. All the previous Prophets (a.s.) have halted here but none has gone beyond. However, Inshallah, you will be going beyond this.
(Kashful Yaqeen Fee Imrate Ameeril Momeneen (a.s.), p. 89 -91)
(iii) The holy persona of Ameerul Momeneen Ali Ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.)
In some Ziyaraat, the Holy Persona of Ameerul Momeneen (a.s.) has been remembered as ‘Sedratul Muntaha’. For instance, a ziyarat of Ameerul Momeneen (a.s.) has been narrated from Imam Ja’far Sadiq (a.s.) which reads
“Salutations upon the tree of ‘Tooba’ and ‘Sedratul Muntaha’.”
(Behaar al-Anwaar, v.100, p. 306 narrating from Misbah Al Zaaer, p. 77 – 78)
This is the reason that Imam Husain (a.s.) has been remembered as the son of ‘Sedratul Muntaha’ in Ziyarat-e-Naahiyah.
(iv) Ahle Bait (a.s.) are ‘Sedratul Muntaha’ Personified
Imam Ja’far Sadiq (a.s.) was asked about ‘Sedratul Muntaha’. He (a.s.) replied:
Its roots are firm and strong and its branches are in skies. Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) is its root, Imam Ali (a.s.) is its trunk, Janabe Zahra (s.a.) is its branch. The Imams are its different branches. Our Shias and our followers are its leaves.
The narrator said: May my life be sacrificed upon you! What does ‘Muntaha’ refer to? Imam (a.s.) said:
By Allah, this is the pinnacle of religion (i.e. Ahle Bait (a.s.) are the perfection of religion). One who is not from this tree is neither a believer nor our Shia.
(Behaar al-Anwaar, v. 24, P. 139 narrating from Basaer Al Darajaat)
(v) ‘Sedratul Muntaha’ Craves for the Leader of the Pious – Ali Ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.)
A tradition is narrated from Hazrat Muhammad Mustafa (s.a.w.a.) that:
“When I was taken to the sky and I reached ‘Sedratul Muntaha’, a concentrated fragrance emanated and a strong wind blew from its trunk. I asked Hazrat Jibrael: What is this? He replied:
“This is ‘Sedratul Muntaha’. When it saw you it craved for your cousin.”
At that time, I heard a caller calling from the side of Allah: Muhammad is the greatest among the Prophets and the Messengers. Ameerul Momeneen Ali Ibn Abi Taalib is the most excellent among the successors and those who possess the mastership and love of Ali are the best among the creatures …”
(Tafseer-e-Furaat Ibn Ibrahim Kufi, p. 219)
(vi) The Cure for Grief and Sorrow of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)
It is observed in traditions that whenever Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) was aggrieved and sorrowful, Hazrat Jibrael brought some leaves from ‘Sedratul Muntaha’. He then washed the head of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) with it. This healed his grief and sorrow.
Therefore, it is very much emphasized in traditions to wash the head with leaves of lote tree so that one is saved from the whisperings of Shaitan for seventy days.
(Behaar al-Anwaar, v. 76, p.87)
(vii) Writings on ‘Sedratul Muntaha’
Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) informs, “When I reached ‘Sedratul Muntaha’ I saw the following written on it:
I am Allah, there is no god except Me and I am One and Alone. Muhammad (s.a.w.a.) is the chosen one from My creatures. I have helped him through his Vizier.
I (Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)) asked: Who is my Vizier? I was told: Ali Ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.). When I passed ‘Sedratul Muntaha’ I reached the Throne of Allah the High.
(Khesaal, The Chapter of Four)
10. “Salutations upon the Son of ‘Jannatul Mawa’”
‘Jannatul Mawa’ was briefly mentioned in the last sentence. Sedratul Muntaha is near ‘Jannatul Mawa’. A person asked Hazrat Bilal (a.s.) what will the people do when they enter paradise? He replied:
They will cruise in the two rivers. The boat will be of emeralds and its pedals will be of emeralds and pearls. In it will be angels of light. They will be wearing green dresses. The narrator asked: ‘Will the light be green? He replied: The dress will be of green color but the light will be of the Lord of the Worlds through which they will travel in the river. The narrator asked: What is the name of the river? He replied: ‘Jannatul Mawa’.
(Tafseer-e-Noorus Saqlain, v. p. 156 narrating from Man La Yahzorohul Faqih)
The literal meaning of ‘Jannat’ is garden and ‘Mawa’ refers to place of shelter. There is a lengthy discussion about ‘Jannat’ in the books of traditions; however we will complete our discussion here. For further details interested readers may refer to the book Behaar Al Anwaar, v. 8, p. 280 – 281.
11. “Salutations upon the son of ‘Zam Zam’ and ’Safa’”
Every Muslim and especially those who had the honor of going for Hajj are aware of the importance of Zam Zam, Safa, Marwah and the other signs of Allah. We will present some essential points for our readers:
(i) Nomenclature
According to Janabe Ali Ibn Ibrahim Qummi (r.a.), the word ‘Zam Zam’ is derived from ‘Zamma’ which means ‘to stop’ or ‘to confine’. The reason being that when Hazrat Ibrahim’s (a.s.) wife, Janabe Haajarah, saw her son from the mountain of Marwah, she saw a spring flowing under his feet. (Both the mother and the son were alone in the hot desert and were suffering from severe thirst. When the mother saw water, there was no limit to her happiness). The water was flowing, so Janabe Haajarah built a small wall of sand around it. This act is known as ‘Zammat’ in Arabic thus the name ‘Zam Zam’.
However, according to other Arabic litterateurs, the word ‘Zam Zam’ is an infinitive (masdar) which means ‘having a thing in abundance’. This is specially used for water.
(ii) Other names of ‘Zam Zam’
Imam Ja’far Sadiq (a.s.) said:
‘Zam Zam’ has other names also – Rakzato Jibrael (The place of Jibrael’s feet), Hafeerato Ismail(a.s.) (Well of Ismail), Hafeerato Abdil Muttalib(a.s.) (Well of Abdul Muttalib), Barra (goodness), Mazmoonah (one whose guarantee is taken) (in some transcript it is given as Maznoonah i.e. valuable treasure), Rawa (one who quenches thirst), Shaba (One satiates), Ta’am (food), Mat’am (place of eating food), Shefa-o-Soqm (Cure for sickness).
(iii) The Beginning of ‘Zam Zam’
Imam Ja’far Sadiq (a.s.) says: When Hazrat Ibrahim (a.s.) was returning from Makkah after leaving Janabe Haajarah and his son, Janabe Haajarah asked him: In whose care are you leaving us? Hazrat Ibrahim (a.s.) replied: I am leaving you in the care of the Lord of this building (Holy Ka’bah).
Imam (a.s.) says:
When the water was exhausted and the child became thirsty, Janabe Haajarah went to the mountain of Safa and cried, ‘Is there anyone here to help?’ Then she went towards the mountain of Marwah and called out the same. Then she reached her son and found water was flowing near her son’s heel. She collected the water and the water stopped. Had she left it, the water would have continued flowing perpetually.
(Al Kaafi, v.4, p. 201)
(iv) Janabe Abdul Muttalib and ‘Zam Zam’
A tradition is narrated from Ameerul Momeneen Ali Ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.):
Hazrat Abdul Muttalib (a.s.) was sleeping in Hijr-e-Ismail (a.s.) when he saw a dream. A person appeared in his dream and said: Dig the Barra (another name of Zam Zam). He asked: What is Barra? The person disappeared.
Again on the second day, he saw the same person in his dream who was saying to him: Dig the Maznoonah. He asked: What is Maznoonah? Again the person disappeared.
On the third day, he saw the same person in his dream who was ordering him: Dig the Tayyebah. When he asked him: what is Tayyebah, the person disappeared.
On the fourth day, the same person returned in the dream and said: Dig Zam Zam. He asked: What is Zam Zam? He replied: Neither will it dry nor its water deplete. Then he was showed its place. Hazrat Abdul Muttalib (a.s.) got up and started digging at the place which he was shown. The Quraish asked Hazrat Abdul Muttalib (a.s.) what he was doing. He replied: I have been ordered to dig the well of Zam Zam. When he removed the mud and water was seen, the Quraish said: We also have a right in the well with you because this well belongs to our ancestors. Janabe Abdul Muttalib(a.s.) replied: This does not belong to you. This is particularized to me and not you.
(Al Kaafi, v.4, p. 219, Trad. 6; Kunuzul Fawaaid, p. 106)
(v) Virtues of Water of Zam Zam
Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) said: The water of Zam Zam is medicine for every disease.
(Al Mahaasin, v. 2 p. 399 Trad .2395; Man La Yahzorohul Faqih, v.2, p. 208 Trad.2164)
Ali Ibn Mahziyar narrates: On the night of 11th Zil Hajj, I saw Imam Muhammad Taqi (a.s.) performing Tawaafun Nisa. Then he performed prayers behind Maqaame Ibrahim. Then he went to Zam Zam and taking a bucket kept near Hajar-e-Aswad, he (a.s.) pulled out some water. He drank and sprinkled some water on parts of his holy body. Then again he went to Zam Zam. Our friend informed us that next year too, Imam (a.s.) did the same.
(Al Kaafi, v. 4 p. 230, Trad. 3)
(vi) Supplication before drinking water of Zam Zam
Two supplications have been narrated in this regard:
Bismillah Al-Hamdolillah Ash Shukro lillah
(Al Mahaasin, v. 2 p. 200 Trad. 2400)
When a person completes the circumambulation of the Holy Ka’bah and finishes recitation of Namaz-e-Tawaaf, he should come to the well of Zam Zam and drink it by extracting it once or twice. Then sprinkle some water on head, back and stomach and say:
Allahummaj’alho ilman naafean wa rizqan waasean wa shefa’an min kulle daain wa soqmin
“O Allah! Make it (for me) beneficial knowledge, vast sustenance and cure from all pain and sickness.”
Then he should return to Hajar-e-Aswad.
(Al Kaafi, v.4 p. 430 Trad. 2; Tahzeeb, v.5 p. 144 Trad. 476)
(vii) To gift water of Zam Zam
When Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) was in Madinah, he used to request people coming from Makkah to gift him (s.a.w.a.) the water of Zam Zam.
This was a short discussion about Zam Zam. Now, very briefly we will discuss about the Mount of Safa.
The Holy Quran says:
“Surely the Safa and the Marwah are among the signs appointed by Allah; so whoever makes a pilgrimage to the House or pays a visit (to it), there is no blame on him if he goes round them both; and whoever does good spontaneously, then surely Allah is Grateful, Knowing.”
(Surah Baqarah (2): Verse 158)
(viii) Nomenclature
Imam Ja’far Sadiq (a.s.) says:
The mountain of Safa is called Safa because the chosen one of Allah, Hazrat Adam (a.s.) descended on it from Paradise. Therefore, Allah, the High named it from the names of Hazrat Adam (a.s.). Allah, the Mighty and the Majestic says
“Surely Allah chose Adam”
(Surah Ale Imran (3): Verse 33)
(Elalul Sharaai, p. 431)
(ix) The beloved piece of land of Allah
Abu Baseer says I heard Imam Ja’far Sadiq (a.s.) say:
“Allah likes ‘Mas’a’ (the place of doing Saee i.e. between Safa and Marwah) more than any piece of land because this is the place where oppressors and tyrants are humiliated and disgraced.”
(Behaar Al Anwaar, v. 99, p. 235 narrating from Elalul Sharai, p. 433)
| Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) Mourns for Imam Husain (a.s.) | for everyone |
We find in Behaarul Anwaar v. 101 (New Edition) Kitaabul Mazaar a Ziyarat named Ziyarat-e-Naahiya attributed to the sacred personality of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.). In this Ziyarat Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.), through various statements, intensely laments over his ancestor who was oppressed in a state of being far from his motherland.
For illustration certain parts of this Ziyarat is produced with a hope that Shias will join their esteemed and occult Imam (a.t.f.s.) in mourning and lamenting over his oppressed ancestor as is his right to be mourned upon. Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) says:
“O My tyrannized ancestor, surely I weep on you day and night. While mourning you my eyes shed blood in place of tears. A mourning based on extreme injustice meted out to you and on the untoward incident which you had to face. This mourning continues till I fear that my throat will suffocate and my soul will leave my body.”
The above statement clearly brings to the fore the intensity by which Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) laments over his revered forefather. Therefore, it is the duty of us Shias that we join Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) in his lamentations.
The second noteworthy aspect of the above statement is that Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.), the master of humans and the Jinn, the centre of the universe, mentions that he mourns Imam Husain (a.s.) with such intensity as to shed blood instead of tears. This indicates how heartrending the incident of Karbala is and the extent to which the so called Muslims mistreated the Ahle Bait (a.s.).
| HADEES | for everyone |
Imam Jafar Sadiq (a.s.), Seventy thousand angels worship near the grave of Imam Husain (a.s.). One namaz of one of them is equal to thousand namaz of mankind. The reward of this namaz is for the visitors of Imam Husain's (a.s.) grave. The curse of Allah, His angels and all mankind is forever upon the killers of Imam Husain (a.s.).
Kaamiluz Ziyaraat, Chapter 42, tradition no. 1, pg. 393
Kaamiluz Ziyaraat, Chapter 42, tradition no. 1, pg. 393
| ONE OF THE TITLE OF BIBI ZAINAB (S.A.)-II | for everyone |
Devout (Zahedah)
O Worshipper (Aabedah)
The will of Imam Husain (a.s.) is sufficient to talk about her worship. At the time of the last farewell, on the day of Ashura, Imam Husain (a.s.) told Janabe Zainab (s.a.).
“O Sister! Do not forget me in the Nafela of midnight prayers (Namaz-e-Shab).”
This statement highlights many aspects:
- This statement reflects the regularity of Janabe Zainab (s.a.) in midnight prayers. The learned scholar Haji Shaikh Abdul Baqir in his book Qurbat-e-Ahmed under authentic Maqaatil quotes from Imam Zainul Abideen (a.s.):
In the journey of Syria , inspite of the troubles and difficulties faced by her, she never missed the night vigil prayers. On account of her abundant worship and her elevated status in the presence of Allah, she is famous as the worshipper.
- Imam Husain (a.s.) recognized the fact that after his martyrdom, the ladies will be taken captive and would be put to untold difficulties in the prison. This will of his demonstrates that inspite of all these difficulties, Imam Husain (a.s.) was certain that Janabe Zainab (s.a.) will maintain the regularity of her night-vigil prayers.
- Our thoughts also reach out to the distinction and importance of the night-vigil prayers of the person,in which the Imam of the time wishes to be remembered.
Courageous (Shajiyaah)
Bravery is the strength of the heart. It is reported in traditions:
“The bravest person is the one who overcomes his desires.”
The bravery of Janabe Zainab (s.a.) is established in this tradition. She inherited courage and bravery from her illustrious father, Ameerul Momineen Ali Ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.). Be it before Ashura or the circumstances after the martyrdom of Imam Husain (a.s.) or the difficulties in the prisons of Damascus or at the time of captivity in the streets of Kufa and Damascus or in the court of Yazid or on the return journey to Madinah, on all occasions she displayed indomitable courage. She played a pivotal role in communicating the messages of her brother to the people. This all was achieved because of the courage of this fearless lady.
Fazil-e-Darbandi (a.r.) says that the words of Janabe Zainab (s.a.) in the court of Ibne Ziyad and Yazid reveal her courage and awe. She declared Yazid an unbeliever and an apostate in a packed court. Her sermons too reflect her valour. Through these sermons she announced the defeat of Yazid and the victory and truth of Imam Husain (a.s.).
The Representative of Janab-e-Zehra (s.a.) (Naaeb-e-Zahra (s.a.))
Janabe Zainab (s.a.) is called Naeb-e-Zehra(s.a.) because she resembled her mother in characteristics and excellences. She inherited purity, truthfulness, and other remarkable qualities from her mother. There are many reasons for her being given this title.
- The wives of the companions called her, ‘Her mother’s heir’ on account of her way of life, habits,manners and conduct.
- She treated Imam Husain (a.s.) like a mother. Had Janabe Zehra (s.a.) been alive she would have treated her beloved son in a like manner.
- People usurped the right of Hazrat Ameerul Momineen Ali Ibn Abi Taalib (a.s.) after the demise of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and came together to kill him. Janabe Zehra (s.a.) protected him. Similarly, Janabe Zainab shielded Imam Sajjad (a.s.) from the evils of the enemies and protected him.
Allah (s.w.t) observes,
“Wealth and children are an ornament for this world.”
The Arabic term ‘Zohad’ is to sacrifice this ornament of the world. Following the footsteps of her mother, Janabe Zahra (s.a.), she never even attempted to accumulate worldly wealth. On the contrary, she considered it lowly and inconsequential. In addition, she sacrificed her beloved sons in the way of Allah. In this way, the title of Zahedah is a title befitting her lofty personality.
The One Satisfied with Divine Decree and Destiny (Ar-Raaziyato bil Qadre wal Qaza)
This title is well understood when one reflects upon the personality of Janabe Zainab (s.a.). She remained patient and thankful in the face of insurmountable difficulties. If she chose to use the power and will granted to her by Allah, she could have reduced mountains to dust. Yet, she adopted patience, submitted to the will of Allah and welcomed difficulties in tough times. Her submission to Allah was such that when she saw the holy head of her brother, dripping blood and raised on a spear, she raised her hands and said,
‘O Lord! Accept this sacrifice of Aale Mohammed (a.s.)!’
| ONE OF THE TITLE OF BIBI ZAINAB (S.A.)-1 | for everyone |
Articulate and Eloquent (Al Fassehah wal Baleegah)
Al Fassehah wal Baleegah means the one who is articulate and eloquent. Her eloquence is evident in her sermons. Janabe Raziq writes in his compilation “Sayyadah ki Beti”:
“Bibi Zainab was perfect in the art of oratory. Her words were filled with pain and were so effective that they would make the audience cry. That’s why she is called articulate and eloquent. The fact is that the gift of eloquence has been bestowed only on a few ladies.
Her sermons in the court of Yazid and those challenging the governor of Kufa and in the streets of Kufa demonstrated her skilled oration.”
Her sermons in the court of Yazid and those challenging the governor of Kufa and in the streets of Kufa demonstrated her skilled oration.”
Hazrat Ali (a.s.) had no match in knowledge and eloquence. He (a.s.) enjoyed a high position in prose and poetry. His speeches were at the peak of eloquence and equally heart-rending and effective. His daughter Janabe Zainab (s.a.) inherited his qualities of eloquence, patience, steadfastness and fortitude at the times of difficulties. In fact, it can be said that Janabe Zainab (s.a.) possessed most of the qualities of Ali -the Lion of God.
That is why the name Zain-ab, meaning the ‘adornment of her father’, was given to her.
O Almighty Allah, we come to your presence with Your Special Names on our tongues and for the sake of Janabe Zainab (s.a.) ask you to hasten of the reappearance of our Imam, Hujjat Ibn al-Hasan (a.s.)! Aameen!
| HADEES | for everyone |
Imam Ja'far ibn Muhammad al-Sādiq (A.S) said:
“If someone recites Surah Bani Israel for 40 nights of Thursday, then he will not die until he has met our Qaem and eventually he will be among his helpers and aides.”
Kaamiluz Ziyaraat, Chapter 42, tradition no. 1, pg. 393
“If someone recites Surah Bani Israel for 40 nights of Thursday, then he will not die until he has met our Qaem and eventually he will be among his helpers and aides.”
The Prophet ( PBUH) said: “Allaah will forgive the sins, even if they were as much as the foam of the sea, for anyone who exalts Allaah thirty-three times saying ‘Subhaanallaah’ , praises Him thirty-three times saying ‘Al- Hamdulillaah’ and glorifies Him thirty-three times saying ‘Allaahu Akbar’, and then completes the supplications to be one hundred by saying: ‘None has the right to be worshipped except Allaah alone, without partner. To Him belong sovereignty and praise, and He is over all things Omnipotent.’ ”
Imam Jafar Sadiq (a.s), Make your children to taste the soil of Imam Husain's grave.
Kamiluz Ziaraat pg. 278
Kamiluz Ziaraat pg. 278
Imam Jafar Sadiq (a.s.), Seventy thousand angels worship near the grave of Imam Husain (a.s.). One namaz of one of them is equal to thousand namaz of mankind. The reward of this namaz is for the visitors of Imam Husain's (a.s.) grave. The curse of Allah, His angels and all mankind is forever upon the killers of Imam Husain (a.s.).
Kaamiluz Ziyaraat, Chapter 42, tradition no. 1, pg. 393
| HADEES | for everyone |
He who is greedy is disgraced; he who discloses his hardship will always be humiliated; he who has no control over his tongue will often have to face discomfort.
Avarice is disgrace; cowardice is a defect; poverty often disables an intelligent man from arguing his case; a poor man is a stranger in his own town; misfortune and helplessness are calamities; patience is a kind of bravery; to sever attachments with the wicked world is the greatest wealth; piety is the best weapon of defense.
Submission to Allah's Will is the best companion; wisdom is the noblest heritage; theoretical and practical knowledge are the best signs of distinction; deep thinking will present the clearest picture of every problem.by Imam Ali..
| TRICKS OF THE SHYTAN | for everyone |
As for the tricks of Shaytan against you they are seven.
1. He obstructs you from doing acts of obedience. Repel him, if Allah protects
you, by realizing that you are in need of these acts of obedience in order to
gather provision from this life for the next life which will have no ending.
2. He commands you to procrastinate in acts of obedience. Repel him, if Allah
protects you, by realizing that your appointed time is not in your hands and that you could die at any moment.
3. He commands you to rush in acts of obedience by suggesting to you, "Hurry! In order that you can do so and so!" Repel him, if Allah protects you, by realizing that few acts of obedience done with perfection is better than
many done incompletely.
4. He commands you to perfect your worship in order to be seen of men. Repel him, if Allah protects you, by realizing that the sight of Allah is enough for you over the sight of men.
5. He whispers arrogance and pride in your heart by saying, "Who is greater and more precise than your obedience?" Repel him, if Allah protects you, by realizing that your acts of obedience to Allah is a blessing from Allah, not from yourself. If it were not for the bounty of Allah, you would not be able to establish any act of obedience , which are nothing next to the blessing of
Allah Ta`ala.
6. This is the greatest of his tricks, he says to you, Make strenuous effort in
keeping your obedience of Allah secret. Soon He will make your acts manifest before the world! Repel him, if Allah protects you, that you are a slave of Allah and that He alone is your Master. If He wills, He will manifest you and if He wills He will keep you concealed. If He wills, He will make you important and if He wills He will make you insignificant. That is for Him to decide, and you should not care whether He manifests your good deeds to people or not, because there is nothing in their hands worth seeking after.
7. He suggests in your heart, There is no need for you to perform acts of obedience to Allah. Truly, if you were created and destined to be among
the people of bliss, then there is no danger in you neglecting the acts of worship. And if you were created and destined to be among the people of
wretchednedd, then there is no benefit in doing them. Repel him , if Allah
protects you, that realizing that you are a slave . And that it the duty of a slave to obey the commands as is the rights to slavery (`ubuudiyya)
| THE SHYTAN IBLIS | for everyone |
When the Meccans wanted to assassinate the Messenger of Allah in a plot
very well documented in history books, a man named al-Shaykh al-Najdi
appeared to them. He, in fact, was none other than Iblis.
Iblis had taken the form of that man and came to the plotters with the suggestion to select one man from each of the Meccan tribes for the execution of their scheme so that Muhammad’s blood would be lost among them and Banu Hashim, his clan, would simply be unable on its own to face all the other
tribes combined. The kunya of that Najdi was “Abu Murra.” Iblis,
therefore, was named likewise.
• The jinns eat and drink, marry, and have their own social system. Some of
them live for thousands of years, but there is no term set for Iblis and his
offspring; he and they shall live till the Day of Judgment. Such respite
granted to Iblis is referred to in verses such as these:
He (Iblis) said: Lord! Grant me a respite till the time when they are raised (for
judgment). He (Allah) said: So surely you are of the respited ones, till the period of the time made known. (Qur’an, 15:36-38)
On rare occasions, however, Iblis offered sound advice to a select few, knowing that he by no means could fool them. He offered advice to Noah and Moses:
• When Nuh invoked his Lord to condemn his people and to inflict
retribution upon them, Iblis came to him and said, O Nuh! Remember me
in three situations, for I am closer during them to any of the servants of
Allah: Remember me when you are angry, and remember me when you
have to arbitrate between two contenders, and remember me when you
sit with a woman and nobody else is present with you.
• When Nuh landed from the ark after the flood was over, Iblis came to him
and said, Nobody on the face of earth has done me a bigger favor than
you! You invoked Allah against these sinners, so you relieved me from
having to deal with them. Shall I, then, teach you two merits? Beware of
envy, for it did to me what it did. And beware of avarice, for it did to
Adam what it did.
• One of the pieces of advice Iblis offered Prophet Musa was the following:
Whenever you contemplate upon offering charity, do it immediately, for
whenever a servant of Allah contemplates upon paying something by
way of charity, I, rather than any of my fellows, will keep him company
in order to desist him from doing
| Prophet YAHYA (AS) AND SHAYTAN | for everyone |
In Majalis Ibn Sheikh Imam Ridha is recorded as quoting his ancestors by saying,
• Satan used to approach the Prophets after Adam till God ordained Hazrat
Isa.
• He used to talk to and question them.
• He liked Hazrat Yahya bin Zakaria the most who asked him, O Satan I
need you for something.
• Satan replied, Your station is so prominent that you are oblivious of needs.
You may ask whatever you want because I will never oppose your wish.
• Hazrat Yahya said, O Satan you tell me how you trap Adam’s progeny
• Satan answered, Through love and friendship.
• He then promised to return the next day.
• The next day Hazrat Yahya waited for him after securing the doors tightly.
• When Satan arrived his face was like that of a monkey, his body was that
of a pig and his eyes were vertical in structure. His teeth and mouth were
joined together; he had no chin and no beard. He had four hands two on
the chest and two on the shoulders and his fingers were reversed. He was
wearing a robe and his loin was tightly girdled with a cloth that was
multi colored. He had a large bell in his hands and an egg on his head
crowned with a metal dog.
• Hazrat Yahya hesitated but asked him, What is this that is tied to your
midriff? Satan replied: This is sorcery that I have beautified for them.
• Hazrat Yahya asked him about the multi colored threads and he said,
These are the fashion of women that will always be popularized among
them, though ultimately it will put them to trial.
• Hazrat Yahya asked him about the bell and he said, This contains all kinds
of musical instruments, which impassion men drink and make merry. I
use them. Hearing these sounds, some refrain from dancing while others
dance wildly and tear their clothes.
• Hazrat Yahya asked him, What soothes your eyes? He answered, Women
are my instruments in trapping men, for they gather in the assemblies of
righteous people and I approach them, for they gladden my heart.
• Hazrat Yahya asked him about the egg on his head and he said, I refrain
from going to the assemblies of the righteous because of it.
• Hazrat Yahya asked him, Why this iron inside the egg? He answered, I
perturb the believers’ hearts through it.
• Yahya asked him if he ever was successful against him and Satan
answered, No, but you have a virtue, and that is you eat healthily after a
day’s fasting and this prevents you from saying your prayer immediately
after eating.
| THE DOER OF GOOD IS BETTER THAN THE DEED ITSELF | for everyone |
One Hadith proclaims:
"The doer of good is better than the deed itself."
And thus an evil-doer is described as to be worse than evil itself, resembling carrion which is considered worse than its bad smell as it is the sourse both of person and terrible odor.
It is narrated from the Messenger (s.a.w.) that:
"To smile in the face of your brother; to encourage others to do good and forbid them from doing evil; to guide a man who has gone astray; to remove a stone, a thorn or a bone from the road; to pour water from your bucket into your friend's bucket, all these acts are considered to be deeds of charity."[7]
Everyone can be among the best of people in doing good and, as a result, will be gladdened by it and respected by all people. Accordingly then, we should not let any day pass without utilizing it in doing good and not let any opportunity pass without utilizing it to benefit people.
By visiting one of your friends you can bring joy to his heart and to visit a sick person. you can reduce the suffering of illness. Reconciling differences among people can remove the source of dispute. To say a word of consolation to comfort a sad soul; to contribute what you can to supply the needs of a poor man; to think how to initiate a charitable project; or to solve the political, economic and moral problems of a society; or to defend against economic. political and social corruption; to give shelter to a stranger who is grieved by being far from his family or country; to instill pleasure and happiness in the heart of an angry man; to secure a frightened man who has lost the sweetness of security and peace; to brighten the life of an orphan with sympathy and compassion; to hide the mistakes or errors of others which may happen in front of you without letting people know... all of these are noble and charitable deeds.
Let us all then hasten to establish individual or cooperative foundations. We should form committees which collect money and alms, donate to mosques. clubs. charitable associations and villages and spend these resources in the fields allowed by Islamic law. These initiatives are considered deeds of kindness which lead to the reform of society, and the solution of its problems.
Our goal should be to establish cooperative projects which distribute financial assistance to the poor and the needy. All can participate in such undertakings whether young or old and according to their abilities. These works can include agricultural and industrial projects which will help solve the problems of poverty and unemployment. Schools, mosques, hospitals and camps for refugees and the disabled could also be built. All these initiatives are among the deeds of charity and benevolence whose doers are loved by Allah. To establish banks which lend the poor and the needy and those who work but do not have enough money to live or to help unmarried youths to get married in order to build Muslim families ...all these are measures against usury , economic injustice and will go a long way in securing the roots for a peaceful Islamic life.
So, among the charitable projects loved by the Almighty Allah are: Establishing associations, organizations, schools, libraries for the sake of spreading Islamic culture. doing good, forbidding evil"..
Included among Allah's rights over us that we donate part of our properties. abilities and experiences for benefitting people. supplying their needs. reforming society and solving its problems.
All can participate in performing such good deeds. which are considered as charity the best of which is continuous and whose benefit unstinting. It is narrated that the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.) said:
"If a man dies, his deeds will vanish except three: A continuous alms-giving, or a righteous son who prays for him after his death or knowledge from which people can benefit".
Therefore, among the problems of our society which prevent its progress and development are foreign dependence, neither participating in doing good-deeds, nor establishing charitable associations or bearing responsibilities.
Every one is duty-bowed to get rid of such unhealthy conditions. Let those who have abilities participate in such projects or at least call others to participate in them.
Surely Almighty Allah is the source of goodness and benevolence in this life. Try to direct yourself towards Him. Certainly doing good is the right way leading to perfection and happiness. Let the speech of our Holy Messenger be an example in your daily life and a guide in your way of living.
"Behave like Allah behaves."
Let us start doing good, and continue the endeavour in order to spread charity and do good deeds.
| THE GOODNESS OF DOING GOOD | for everyone |
The Almighty Allah has said:
"Do cast into hell every ungratefull, rebellious one. Forbidder of good, exceeder of limits, doubter."
Holy Qur'an (50:24-25)
The Almighty has also said:
"..and reconciliation is better, and souls are prone to avarice. And if you do good and be God-fearing, then surely Allah is Cognizant of what you do."
Holy Qur'an (4:128)
For the same reason, Islam considers prosperity and success as a protection against such harmful moral sickness.
The Almighty Allah has said:
"...and whoever is saved from the greediness of his soul, these it is that are the successful."
Holy Qur'an (64:16)
When the Messenger(s.a.w.) talks about good and its doers in society. He wants to teach Muslims and Islamic society that an Islamic society is a cooperative one... The social service performed by a scientist. farmer, doctor. teacher, thinker, social reformer , and one who participates in charitable projects, or helps the poor and the needy. all these works are considered good deeds to which generous people in society contribute. Therefore, those who are doing good and are inspired in their work by knowledge of Allah and who like to do good seeking His pleasure. these are the best people because of their social usefulness.
The glorious Prophet (s.a.w.) has guided our social preferences through his example. i.e. serving the society and encouraging social advancement while seeking Allah's pleasure.
The Islamic view which sees society as one family and creation (the human being, animal, plant) as belonging to Allah and depends on Him. It aims to shape this world with all its individuals and elements into a unity and completeness, to deepen the cultured comprehension and consciousness of man and to confirm his role in serving to develop the world. Thus man is in need of mutual good advantages. to help his brother progress in humanistic ways. The animal and plant kingdoms are also in need of and prosper through this enlightened attitude.
Man is the master of this earth and it is his responsibility to improve it. Thus we see that Prophet Salih (a.s.) when addressing his people, explains to them this fact which the Holy Qur'an narrates as a profound lesson for humanity.
The Almighty Allah has said:
"And to Thamud (We sent} their brother Salih. He said: O my people! worship Allah, you have no god other than Him; He brought you forth from the earth, and settled you therein; so ask forgiveness of Him, then repent to Him; surely my Lord is Near, Responsive."
Holy Qur'an (11:61)
We also see that the Holy Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) ordered people to do good and considered the one who does so as the best one among people. It should be noted that the truth of his call 'to do good' encompasses animals and plants which is clear through his speech. Once a man asked the Prophet (s.a.w.): Can we consider watering a thirsty dog as a charity? he answered:
"To water every thirsty liver, there is a reward in it."
The truth of this prophetic character is incarnated in the Messenger's behaviour and in his august biography...It happened once that a thirsty cat crossed near him, he bent down holding a plate full of water with his noble hand and allowed it to drink.
The Messenger's call to do deeds beneficial to people gives life. value and meaning through which people will feel the value of existence and the meaning of humanity.
If in the struggle for being fertile ground is not found, goodness does not prosper and the human being becomes voracious, life will be transformed into unbearable evil and greed.
According to Islamic principles. a human being is considered as a source of goodness and a continual blessing. Any good word which increases love and peace; or reduces the pains and the sufferings of souls which are burdened with afflictions; or engenders calmness and confidence in the hearts; or eliminates fear and narrowness; or reforms the wicked one from among the people; or removes enmity among people is the word which expresses the spirit of goodness of the speaker.
Any genuine smile and constant cheerfulness in the face of your Muslim brother will reduce his weariness, sufferings and problems of life, is considered a good deed whose author should be praised and is deserving of the respect of people.
Any attempt to provide the needs of the poor and to help the aggrieved one relieve his sorrow. is an act of beneficence which is loved by Allah and for which people will give thanks. Any display of sympathy, which a man shows to an oppressed human or animal, is considered an act of good loved by Allah and His Messenger and received with gratefulness by the people.
To resist by bearing the responsibility of doing good and to call others to Islam is an act of goodness which is loved by Allah, Who invites people to do so.
"And from among you there should be a party inviting to good and bidding what is right and forbidding what is wrong and those are the successful."
Holy Qur'an (3:104)
| HADEES | for everyone |
A man once asked the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.):
"What people does Allah love most?". He said, "They are the most useful ones to people."
It is also narrated from the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) that he said:
All mankind belong to Allah, therefore the most favored by Allah is the one who is good to his or her own family"
It is also narrated that the Messenger (s.a.w.) said:
"Whoever guides (others) towards good is like the one who does it."
It is also narrated that:
"The doer of good is better than good itself and the evil-doer is worse than evil itself"
It is also narrated that the Prophet (s.a.w.) said:
"Do not do anything of good so as to be seen by people, nor give it up because of shyness"
It is narrated from Imam Ali ibn Abi-Talib (a.s.) that he said:
"Speak much of good in order to be known by it and do good to be identified with its followers."
| THE HOLY QURAN AYAT | for everyone |
In the Name of Allah, the Merciful, the Compassionate.
"The day when every soul will find what it has done of good brought forward, and what it has done of evil; it will wish there was a far space between itself and it (evil). And Allah warns you to beware of Him; and Allah is Compassionate with His servants".
Holy Qur'an (3:30)
"They ask you what they should spend. Say: Whatever of wealth you spend, is for the parents, relatives, orphans, the needy and the traveller, and whatever good you do, Allah is surely Omniscient of it".
Holy Qur'an (2:215)
| To remove his spirit with ease.-Surah-az-Zilzal | for everyone |
Shaikh Kulaini relates from Imam Ja'far-as-Sadiq (A.S.) that he said that the one who recites Surah-az-Zilzal in the Supererogatory Prayers (Nafela), Allah will save him from earthquake, lightening and the calamities of the land and sky. And during death He will send this Surah in the form of a handsome youth who will sit besides him and request the Angel of death (Malekul Maut to remove his spirit with ease.
| Punishing himself by burning his hand for the sin | for everyone |
It is related from Imam Mohammad-al-Baqir (A.S.) that in Bani Israel there was a protitute who had seduced and tempted many youth. There lived a virtuous person among them. One day some youth plotted, that if that virtuous man had a glimpse of that woman, he too would be tempted to commit sin. When they revealed their intention to the woman she said, “I swear that until I do not seduce this man I will not go home”. During the night she went and knocked at the door of the virtuous man.
She reguested him to give her shelter for one night. When the man refused to permit her in, she said that some men of Bani Israel were trying to commit indecency with her and she had come to take his refuge. She also said that if he did not open the door, those men would disgrace her. When the vituous man heard this he opened the door. As soon as the woman entered his house, she threw away her clothes. When the virtuous man saw her beauty he was tempted and forwarded his hand towards her. Suddenly fear of Allah overcame him and he held back his hand. Instead he put it in a pot which was boiling on the stove nearby. The woman was surprised and asked him as to what was he doing. To which he replied that he was punishing himself by burning his hand for the sin. The woman was scared and ran out and told the people that the virtuous man was burning his hand. When the people came in they saw that his entire hand had burnt.
She reguested him to give her shelter for one night. When the man refused to permit her in, she said that some men of Bani Israel were trying to commit indecency with her and she had come to take his refuge. She also said that if he did not open the door, those men would disgrace her. When the vituous man heard this he opened the door. As soon as the woman entered his house, she threw away her clothes. When the virtuous man saw her beauty he was tempted and forwarded his hand towards her. Suddenly fear of Allah overcame him and he held back his hand. Instead he put it in a pot which was boiling on the stove nearby. The woman was surprised and asked him as to what was he doing. To which he replied that he was punishing himself by burning his hand for the sin. The woman was scared and ran out and told the people that the virtuous man was burning his hand. When the people came in they saw that his entire hand had burnt.
posted by ABBAS ALAM @ 08:43
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